American actor Tom Skerritt, known for his roles in "Alien" and "Top Gun," has died at the age of 93. According to his family, he passed away on October 21 from natural causes.
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Tom Skerritt starred in numerous films and television series. In Ridley Scott's "Alien," he played Dallas, the captain of the space tug Nostromo, and in Tony Scott's "Top Gun," he portrayed the experienced instructor Mike Metcalf, nicknamed Viper, who trained Tom Cruise's character. His other works include "M*A*S*H," "The Dead Zone," "Steel Magnolias," "A River Runs Through It," and "Contact." In 1993, the actor won an Emmy Award for his role as Sheriff Jimmy Brock in the series "Picket Fences."
In a statement shared with Entertainment Weekly, Skerritt's family described how they will remember the actor:
"The world knew Tom for his remarkable acting career, and we knew him for his sense of humor, curiosity, wisdom, generosity, and the love he gave us. Imagination, creativity, the art of storytelling, helping people, supporting veterans, and nature were very important to him. He helped others find their voice and be heard. We are incredibly grateful for the love and support of his friends, colleagues, and fans."