James Tolkan attends the 25th anniversary screening of "Back To The Future" at Hollywood Blvd Cinema on February 26, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. (Credit: Barry Brecheisen/Getty Images)
NEW YORK - James Tolkan, the character actor best known for his work in "Top Gun" and the "Back to the Future" trilogy, has died. He was 94 years old.
James Tolkan dies, known for ‘Back to the Future’ and ‘Top Gun’
What we know:
Tolkan passed away peacefully in Saranac Lake, New York on March 26, according to the official "Back to the Future" website. A family spokesperson, along with Bob Gale, who co-created the "Back to the Future" franchise, also confirmed the news to media outlets.
What we don't know:
His cause of death was not revealed.
James Tolkan's legacy
Dig deeper:
Tolkan spent 25 years in New York theater. Notably, he was a member of the original ensemble cast of the "Glengarry Glen Ross."
Tolkan did several movie roles while still based in New York City, including "Prince of the City" (1981) for director Sidney Lumet, but moved his career to California and Canada in 1983 when he was cast in "War Games."
His most memorable film roles were as Mr. Strickland in "Back to the Future" (1985) for director Robert Zemeckis, and as Tom Cruises's Commanding Officer "Stinger" in "Top Gun" (1986). He had a dual role in Woody Allen's "Love and Death," and appeared in numerous films and TV shows through 2011.
Tolkan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee, and three nieces in Des Moines, Iowa.
The Source: This story was reported from Los Angeles.