James Tolkan, the actor remembered for his roles as a strict vice principal in ‘Back to the Future’ and a commanding officer in ‘Top Gun’, has passed away at the age of 94.
Tolkan died Thursday at his home in Lake Placid, New York, his booking agent John Alcantar confirmed Saturday. A short obituary on the ‘Back to the Future’ website said he passed away “peacefully,” without mentioning a cause.
In the 1985 classic ‘Back to the Future’, Tolkan played the bow tie-wearing Vice Principal Gerald Strickland, who constantly watched over students, especially Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox. His memorable line, “You got a real attitude problem, he was a slacker, too,” has become iconic.
Tolkan also appeared in ‘Top Gun’ as Cmdr. Tom “Stinger” Jardian. In a notable scene near the film’s end, he reacts with humor when Tom Cruise’s character chooses his future duty: “God help us,” he says with a laugh.
Born in Calumet, Michigan, Tolkan graduated high school in Arizona and served in the Navy during the Korean War. He later moved to New York, where he spent 25 years performing in theater, including as part of the original cast of ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee Welles, who said Tolkan loved art and adored animals.