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James Tolkan, Back to the Future and Top Gun actor, dies at 94

A Hollywood legend fades. From stern principals to tough officers, Tolkan's unforgettable characters shaped 1980s cinema—and left a lasting mark.

The image shows a group of men in military uniforms standing next to each other, wearing caps and...
The image shows a group of men in military uniforms standing next to each other, wearing caps and holding guns. In the background there are buildings with windows, and the image is in black and white. It appears to be a scene from the movie 'The Great War'.

(Gray News) - Actor James Tolkan died Thursday at the age of 94.

James Tolkan, Back to the Future and Top Gun actor, dies at 94

Tolkan was best known for his roles in the "Back to the Future" franchise and "Top Gun."

He died peacefully in Saranac Lake, New York, according to an obituary posted on the franchise's website.

Moviegoers will remember Tolkan in "Back to the Future" as Mr. Strickland, the tough and strict principal at Hill Valley High School.

The Michigan native's other memorable role came in "Top Gun" as the no-nonsense Commander Tom "Stinger" Jardian.

Tolkan's career spanned more than five decades, including many years in New York theater. His first TV credit was for the 1960 series "Naked City" and his last credit was for the 2015 film "Bone Tomahawk," Variety reports.

He is survived by his wife of more than 50 years and three nieces. No immediate cause of death was given.

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