Tom Skerritt, star of ‘Alien’ and familiar face at SIFF, dies at 93

Tom Skerritt, an acclaimed character actor who brought a gruff yet graceful gravitas to an expansive career in movies, television and theater — including roles in the films “Alien,” “Top Gun” and “Contact” — died Wednesday at his home in Seattle. He was 93. 

“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,” his family said in a statement Thursday. “He cared deeply about imagination, creativity, storytelling, service, veterans, the natural world, and helping others find and share their own voices. We are incredibly grateful for the love and support being shown by his friends, colleagues, and fans. We ask for privacy as our family grieves.”

The statement added that information about a memorial will be shared later.

Skerritt is survived by his wife, Julie Tokashiki; children Andy, Erin, Matt, Collin and Emiko; grandchildren Sara, Maddison, Sunny, Louisa, and Georgia; and great-grandchildren Marigold and Ravi. 

This story will be updated.