James Tolkan, the character actor best known for his roles in Back to the Future and Top Gun, has died aged 94. Tolkan passed away peacefully at his New York state home on Thursday, his death announced by the Back to the Future website and by writer-producer Bob Gale. No cause was provided.
Career highlights
Tolkan’s career spanned more than five decades. He first appeared on television in the 1960s series Naked City and went on to a varied career on stage, television and film that covered some 55 years.
He is widely remembered as the strict, slacker‑hating schoolmaster Mr. Strickland in the first two Back to the Future films and returned to the franchise in the third film as the grandfather of his character. He also played air group commanding officer “Stinger” Jardian in the 1986 blockbuster Top Gun, appearing alongside Tom Cruise, Val Kilmer and Meg Ryan.
Tolkan’s final film credit was the 2015 western Bone Tomahawk.
Announcement and tributes
The actor’s passing was confirmed on the Back to the Future website and by writer-producer Bob Gale. The announcements did not include a cause of death.
Hollywood actor James Tolkan has passed away aged 94 Credit: Getty
Legacy
Tolkan’s authoritative presence and distinctive performances left a mark on several high‑profile films of the 1980s and beyond. His long career included roles across television, stage and cinema, and he is remembered for the stern characters he often portrayed.
Breaking news… More to come…
Image Referance: https://www.thesun.ie/tvandshowbiz/16745781/james-tolkan-back-future-top-gun-actor-dies/