US actor Tom Skerritt, who starred in Picket Fences, Mash and Alien, dies aged 93

Actor Tom Skerritt, known for his roles in Alien, Top Gun, and the TV series Picket Fences, has passed away at the age of 93. His family remembered him for his wisdom, humor, and dedication to storytelling.
Why it matters
Skerritt was a prolific figure in American cinema and television, leaving behind a significant legacy across six decades of entertainment.
Image source, REUTERS/Fred Prouser/File Photo By Nardine Saad Published 22 October 2026, 20:41 BST Updated 18 minutes ago US actor Tom Skerritt, who starred in the TV series Picket Fences and the films Alien and Top Gun, has died aged 93, his family says.
Skerritt died on Wednesday of natural causes, his family said: "While the world knew Tom through his remarkable acting career, we knew him for his humor, curiosity, wisdom, generosity, and the love he brought into our lives."
In a six-decade career, he took on film and television roles, appearing in Mash, A River Runs Through It and Ted. He also co-founded TheFilmSchool in Seattle to support next-generation filmmakers and storytellers.
Headlinne story · 6 newsrooms
Tom Skerritt Dies at Age 93 After Storied Acting Career
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