Tom Skerritt: The Legendary Actor Shares His Journey, Insights, And Life Lessons

There’s no doubt that Tom Skerritt has carved out a remarkable career as one of Hollywood’s most respected and enduring actors. Whether you know him from the classic comedy M*A*S*H, the groundbreaking sci-fi thriller Alien, or the critically acclaimed TV series Picket Fences, this ruggedly handsome actor has been a steady presence in our lives for nearly six decades. At 86 years young, Tom continues to amaze with his energy and passion for his craft. This year, he returns to the big screen as Viper in the much-anticipated Top Gun: Maverick, set to release on December 23.

When he’s not dazzling audiences on camera, Tom keeps himself busy with meaningful projects. He co-founded TheFilmSchool, a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing aspiring screenwriters and directors, and runs Triple Squirrels, a film company he launched with his wife of nearly 22 years, Julie Tokashiki. So where does all that energy come from? As Tom puts it, “When I was a kid, another kid asked a man, ‘How did you get to be so old, mister?’ And the guy said, ‘I just keep moving.’ That’s a lesson I’ve carried with me through most of my life. Just keep moving!”

Catching Up With Tom Skerritt: What's Keeping Him Busy?

Tom’s life is as vibrant and fulfilling as ever. “I’ve been diving into things I haven’t had time for earlier in my career,” he shares. “I was working on a memoir, but that’s on the back burner now. I’ve finished a screenplay, and I’m making good progress on a play. There’s always something new to explore, and I love staying creative.”

Read also:

Wayne Newton The Heart Of Las Vegas And The Joy Of Fatherhood

Looking Ahead: Tom's Role in East of the Mountains with Mira Sorvino

Tom recently wrapped filming for East of the Mountains, starring alongside the talented Mira Sorvino. While he hasn’t been in close contact with the production team about the final results, he’s excited to see how it turns out. “It was a great experience, and I’m really looking forward to what the audience will think,” he says.

Back in the Cockpit: Tom's Thoughts on Top Gun: Maverick

Tom reveals that he was invited to reprise his role as Viper for a funeral scene honoring one of the original Top Gun characters. “They didn’t share the full script with anyone, so even I don’t know exactly where the story is going. But I did get to spend a great day with Tom Cruise, and that was pretty special.”

A Trip Down Memory Lane: Reflecting on Picket Fences

For many fans, Picket Fences remains one of Tom’s most beloved roles. “It was an incredible four-year run,” he recalls fondly. “Kathy Baker played my wife, and the entire cast was just a wonderful group of people. The show was written by the legendary David E. Kelley, who’s arguably the best writer in television history. It earned 14 Emmys and was considered the best show on TV for a couple of years. Honestly, I couldn’t have asked for more.”

An Emmy Win: How Did It Feel?

When asked about winning an Emmy for his performance in Picket Fences, Tom admits he was speechless. “It’s hard to compare one actor’s work to another’s. I mean, it’s such an honor, but I don’t like getting caught up in all that. At the end of the day, it’s about doing great work and connecting with the audience.”

Tom's Favorite Role: A Moving Performance in A River Runs Through It

While Tom has delivered countless memorable performances over the years, one stands out above the rest. “Playing the reverend in A River Runs Through It was deeply moving for me,” he explains. “It’s such a visually stunning film, and it captures the essence of America in a way that resonates on so many levels. I’ve watched it multiple times, and every time, it touches me in a different, more profound way. Ultimately, it’s the movie as a whole that matters more than any single role.”

The Beginning: From War Hunt to M*A*S*H

Tom’s journey in Hollywood began in 1962 with his screen debut in War Hunt. However, it wasn’t until the 1970 film M*A*S*H that he truly broke through. “If it weren’t for Robert Altman, I might not have made it in this business,” he reflects. “He allowed us to improvise about 80 percent of the script, which was a game-changer for me. It opened my eyes to the art of filmmaking and gave me the confidence to grow as an actor.”

Read also:

Kelly Ripa Takes A Lighthearted Swipe At Ryan Seacrest On Live With Kelly And Mark

Defining Moments: The Impact of M*A*S*H and Alien

Two films that truly put Tom on the map were M*A*S*H and Alien. “Both Altman and Ridley Scott took the time to explain their creative choices, and I learned so much from them,” he says. “Working with some of the best directors in the business has been a gift that keeps on giving.”

Women in Film: Lessons Learned on the Set of Steel Magnolias

Filming Steel Magnolias was a unique and inspiring experience for Tom. “I was surrounded by some of the strongest, most intelligent women in the industry,” he recalls with a laugh. “We’d rent houses in Louisiana and take turns hosting dinner parties. I’d just sit back and listen to their conversations, and it was eye-opening. Women should absolutely be running the country right now!”

Roots and Humility: Growing Up in Detroit

Tom’s upbringing in Detroit played a significant role in shaping who he is today. “Coming from a blue-collar, middle-class background, you tend to stay grounded and appreciate your success without letting it go to your head,” he says. “I’ve never been one for big egos, and I think that’s because of where I came from.”

Joining the Air Force: A Life-Changing Decision

After graduating high school, Tom knew he needed to get out of Detroit and explore new opportunities. “I wasn’t cut out for the 9-to-5 lifestyle, so I joined the Air Force,” he explains. “That decision led me to the GI Bill, which eventually brought me to UCLA. It was a pivotal moment in my life.”

From War Hunt to A River Runs Through It: Working with Robert Redford

Tom’s first movie, War Hunt, gave him the chance to act alongside Robert Redford, who later directed him in A River Runs Through It. “I majored in English and thought, ‘If I’m going to write screenplays, I need to understand what it’s like to be an actor,’” he explains. “I happened to catch the eye of someone who asked me to be in the movie, and the rest is history. Redford and I lived in the same neighborhood, so we developed a great friendship over the years.”

Staying Connected: Did Tom Keep in Touch with His M*A*S*H Co-Stars?

Despite the bonds formed during M*A*S*H, Tom didn’t maintain close relationships with many of his co-stars. “I was focused on raising my kids and dealing with some personal challenges,” he explains. “It wasn’t easy, but I’m proud of how everything turned out.”