'Top Gun' and 'Back to the Future' Actor Was 94
variety.com • • general
Key Points:
- James Tolkan, known for his roles in “Top Gun” and the “Back to the Future” franchise, passed away at the age of 94 in Saranac Lake, New York.
- His acting career spanned over five decades, with notable roles including Principal Mr. Strickland in the “Back to the Future” trilogy and Commander Tom Jardian in “Top Gun.”
- Tolkan’s work extended to various films such as “WarGames” and TV shows including “Leverage” and “The Wonder Years.”
- Born in Michigan in 1931, Tolkan served in the U.S. Navy before studying acting in New York with renowned instructors Stella Adler and Lee Strasberg.
- He is survived by his wife, Parmelee, whom he met in 1971 during an off-Broadway play.
