Tom Skerritt, star of 'Alien' and 'Top Gun', psses away at 93

Tom Skerritt began his acting career in the late 1950s, appearing in television series before moving to feature films. Over the decades he built a reputation for playing steady, reliable characters, earning respect from peers and audiences alike. His performance as Parker in the 1979 science‑fiction classic "Alien" helped cement his place in Hollywood history, while his role as Mike "Viper" Metcalf in the 1986 war drama "Top Gun" introduced him to a new generation of viewers.

Beyond his most famous roles, Skerritt contributed to a wide range of projects, including the television series "Picket Fences" and the film "The Last Starfighter." He received several nominations for his work, reflecting a career that spanned more than six decades. Colleagues often praised his professionalism and his willingness to mentor younger actors, traits that made him a valued member of any cast.

In India, Skerritt's films have been part of the broader exposure to Hollywood cinema that began in the 1970s and grew with the arrival of satellite television. Audiences remember his work in "Alien" as part of the early wave of sci‑fi that influenced Indian filmmakers and fans. His passing marks the end of an era for those who grew up watching his performances on the big screen and on television, and it serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of classic Hollywood talent on global audiences.