James Tolkan, the veteran character actor beloved for playing intimidating authority figures in Hollywood blockbusters “Back to the Future” and “Top Gun,” has passed away at age 94.
The actor died peacefully on Thursday at his Lake Placid, New York residence, according to his booking representative John Alcantar, who confirmed the news Saturday. While an obituary posted on the “Back to the Future” official website noted he passed away peacefully, no specific cause of death was disclosed.
Movie fans will remember Tolkan best as the stern Vice Principal Gerald Strickland in “Back to the Future,” complete with his signature bow tie as he patrolled the corridors of the fictional Hill Valley High School, constantly watching for troublemakers – especially Marty McFly, the character brought to life by Michael J. Fox.
“You got a real attitude problem, McFly,” Tolkan’s character says in the 1985 film. “You’re a slacker. You remind me of your father when he went here. He was a slacker, too.”
The actor also made his mark in “Top Gun” playing commanding officer Tom “Stinger” Jardian. In a memorable scene near the film’s conclusion, when Jardian inquires about Tom Cruise’s character Captain Pete “Maverick” Mitchell’s preferred future assignment, Mitchell responds that he’d like to become a Top Gun instructor.
“God help us,” Tolkan’s character replies, laughing.
A native of Calumet, Michigan, Tolkan completed military service in the Navy during the Korean War before relocating to New York, where he dedicated 25 years to theatrical performances. He was among the original cast members of “Glengarry Glen Ross.”
Tolkan leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Parmelee Welles.
