The no-nonsense commanding officer from ‘Top Gun,’ James Tolkan, has passed away at the age of 94. His family announced the news of his demise on Thursday in Saranac Lake, New York. James Tolkan, who is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee, has left a lasting legacy on Hollywood. His career in Hollywood spans decades. Here’s everything to know about the ‘Back to the Future’ star.
James Tolkan’s early life
Tolkan was born in Michigan’s Calumet in 1931. After his parents’ divorce, Tolkan moved to Tucson at the age of 14. He graduated from Amphitheatre High School in 1949. After a brief stint in the Navy during the Korean War and attending multiple colleges, he moved to New York City with just USD 75 in his pocket. He went on to work on the docks while studying acting under Stella Adler and Lee Strasberg.
How James Tolkan’s acting career started
Tolkan started his acting career through theatre performances. His most notable portrayal was Dave Moss in the original Broadway run of ‘Glengarry Glen Ross.’ He also appeared in the original production of ‘Wait Until Dark.’Later, Tolkan transitioned into films. He made his onscreen debut in 1960 on an episode of ABC’s ‘Naked City.’ He worked with acclaimed directors like Sidney Lumet in ‘Serpico’ and ‘Prince of the City.’ He became widely recognised for his role as the stern principal Mr. Strickland in ‘Back to the Future’ and its sequels, even portraying the character’s ancestor in ‘Back to the Future Part III.’ Tolkan’s big-screen résumé also included ‘The Friends of Eddie Coyle’ (1973), ‘The Amityville Horror’ (1979), ‘Wolfen’ (1981), ‘WarGames’ (1983), ‘Masters of the Universe’ (1987), ‘True Blood’ (1989) and ‘Opportunity Knocks’ (1990).
Survived by wife Parmelee
James Tolkan is survived by his wife, Parmelee, 54. They married in 1971 in Lake Placid. Tolkan met Parmelee on the set of the Broadway show. She worked at the American Place Theatre as a costume and scenery painter.
Donation for a cause
According to The Hollywood Reporter, his family asked that donations in his memory be made to a local animal shelter, animal rescue organisation, or Humane Society chapter.
