In brief
James Tolkan, famed for his roles as the strict vice principal in 'Back to the Future' and commanding officer in 'Top Gun', has passed away at the age of 94. Tolkan died peacefully in his home in Lake Placid. His career spanned decades, capturing audiences with his unforgettable characters. His contributions to theater and film will always be remembered.
Actor James Tolkan, known for his roles as a cigar-chomping naval commander in “Top Gun” and a gruff high school administrator in “Back to the Future,” has died. He was 94.
Tolkan died Thursday in Lake Placid, New York, where he lived, his booking agent, John Alcantar, said Saturday. A brief obituary published on the “Back to the Future” website said Tolkan died “peacefully,” but no cause of death was given.
In “Back to the Future,” Tolkan portrayed the bow tie-wearing vice principal Gerald Strickland, who kept a watchful eye on students in the halls of the fictitious Hill Valley High School — particularly on Marty McFly, played 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.”
Tolkan also appeared in “Top Gun” as the commanding officer Tom “Stinger” Jardian. Near the end of the film, when Jardian asks Tom Cruise’s character, Capt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, about his choice for future duty, Mitchell replies that he wants to be a Top Gun instructor. “God help us,” Tolkan’s character laughs.
Born in Calumet, Michigan, Tolkan graduated from high school in Arizona and served in the Navy during the Korean War. He eventually made his way to New York, spending a quarter century acting in theater roles, including as a member of the original cast of “Glengarry Glen Ross.”
Tolkan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee Welles, who noted in a statement that her husband was also an avid art collector and adored animals.
