Tom Skerritt Dies at 93

US actor Tom Skerritt has passed away at the age of 93, his family has confirmed. The news marks the end of a remarkable six-decade career in Hollywood that saw him appear in numerous iconic films.

Skerritt's family described him as a man of great humor, curiosity, wisdom, and generosity, who brought love into their lives through his interactions with them. This personal side of Skerritt is often overshadowed by the public persona of an accomplished actor known for his roles in various memorable movies.

Throughout his illustrious career, Tom Skerritt co-founded TheFilmSchool in Seattle to support emerging filmmakers and storytellers. He also appeared in a diverse range of films, including the classic comedy-drama Steel Magnolias, the 1986 sci-fi horror film Alien, and the military drama Mash.

Skerritt was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1933 and served in the US Air Force before embarking on his acting career. His military background led to several roles that showcased his expertise in playing soldiers and veterans.

Skerritt's breakthrough role came when he played US army surgeon Duke Forrest in the 1970 Korean War comedy Mash. The film was notable for its release during a time of unrest over the Vietnam War and went on to receive five Academy Award nominations.

Mash was later adapted into a television series two years after its initial release, further cementing Skerritt's presence in popular culture. His portrayal of Duke Forrest demonstrated his ability to play complex characters in dramatic settings.

Skerritt also starred alongside Sigourney Weaver in the 1979 sci-fi film Alien, which earned two Oscar nominations and spawned three sequels and several crossover projects. The film's success was due in part to the chemistry between Skerritt and Weaver, as he noted in a 2019 interview.

Skerritt praised the script for "the woman becomes a hero, referring to Weaver's character Ripley, which showcased his appreciation for strong female leads. Throughout his career, he had the opportunity to work with several notable actresses, including Shirley MacLaine and Sally Field.

Throughout his career, Tom Skerritt's versatility shone through in various film and television roles, showcasing his range as an actor.

On the small screen, he earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of Sheriff Jimmy Brock in David E Kelley's drama Picket Fences, which led to him winning an Emmy Award in 1993. The show's ensemble cast received multiple nominations from the Screen Actors Guild Awards between 1995 and 1996, with Skerritt himself receiving a nod for male actor in a drama series in 1995.

His time on Picket Fences was marked by his leadership and dedication to the craft, earning him admiration from his co-stars. Lauren Holly, who played his deputy, remembered him fondly as our leader" who set a high standard for the cast. Skerritt's influence extended beyond the set, with many colleagues citing his care and compassion for those around him.

In addition to Picket Fences, Skerritt made guest appearances on several notable television shows, including The West Wing, Madam Secretary, Law & Order: SVU, and Huff. He also reteamed with Sally Field in the drama Brothers & Sisters from 2007-09, where he played the family patriarch William Walker.

Tom Skerritt's career was marked by a range of memorable roles, including a six-episode stint on the popular sitcom Cheers, where he played Evan Drake, the object of affection for main character Rebecca Howe.

Skerritt left behind a lasting legacy that extends far beyond his work in front of the camera. He co-founded TheFilmSchool in Seattle and was involved with the Red Badge Project, which uses creative writing as a therapeutic tool to help veterans cope with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. His commitment to environmental causes is also evident through his documentary series Reflections of the River and support for river conservation efforts.