Mar 27, 2026 4:58pm PT

James Tolkan, ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Back to the Future’ Actor, Dies at 94

Payton Turkeltaub

Plus Icon

Payton Turkeltaub

Latest

James Tolkan, ‘Top Gun’ and ‘Back to the Future’ Actor, Dies at 94

3 hours ago

‘World of Warcraft’ Concert Series Sets Anniversary Tour (Gaming News Roundup)

5 hours ago

‘The Reunion: Laguna Beach’ Trailer: Original Cast Reunites 20 Years Later (TV News Roundup)

1 day ago

See All

Getty Images

James Tolkan, best known for roles in “Top Gun” and the “Back to the Future” franchise, died on Thursday in Saranac Lake, N.Y. He was 94.

News of Tolkan’s death was announced by a spokesperson for the family as well as by writer-producer Bob Gale and on the franchise’s website.

Tolkan’s career spanned more than five decades. His first TV credit was for the 1960 series “Naked City” and his last credit was for the 2015 film “Bone Tomahawk.” Though Tolkan is perhaps most recognized for his work in the “Back to the Future” trilogy, in which he played principal Mr. Strickland in the 1985 original and 1989 sequel. In 1990, he returned as the grandfather of his character for the third film.

Popular on Variety

James Tolkan, 'Top Gun' and 'Back to the Future' Actor, Dies at 94