'Back to the Future' and 'Top Gun' actor James Tolkan dies at 94
AP News • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Actor James Tolkan, known for his roles in “Top Gun” and “Back to the Future,” has died at the age of 94 in Lake Placid, New York.
- Tolkan famously portrayed Vice Principal Gerald Strickland in “Back to the Future” and Commander Tom “Stinger” Jardian in “Top Gun.”
- He served in the Navy during the Korean War and had a long theater career, including being part of the original cast of “Glengarry Glen Ross.”
- Tolkan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee Welles, who noted his passion for art collecting and love of animals.
- The cause of death was not disclosed, but he died peacefully according to a brief obituary on the “Back to the Future” website.
