Julia Roberts honors late co-star Tom Skerritt on Instagram

Julia Roberts shared an Instagram post on Oct. 22 featuring a still from the 1989 film "Steel Magnolias" in which Tom Skerritt’s character learns that Shelby Eatenton Latcherie, played by Roberts, is pregnant. She wrote, "A shining light of a gentle man. RIP," accompanying the image.

Skerritt died of natural causes on Oct. 21 at the age of 93, his family said in a statement that expressed deep sadness and grief. The family described him as a person known for humor, curiosity, wisdom, generosity and the love he brought to those around him, and noted his passion for imagination, creativity, storytelling, service to veterans, the natural world, and helping others find their voices.

The statement asked for privacy for the family as they mourn and said details about a memorial would be shared later. Skerritt is survived by his wife, Julia Tokashiki, five children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Skerritt’s career spanned film and television, including roles as Commander Mike “Viper” Metcalf in "Top Gun," Captain Arthur Dallas in "Alien," Sheriff George Bannerman in "The Dead Zone," and Reverend MacLean in "A River Runs Through It." His most recent on-screen appearance was in the 2025 western drama "Broke," where he played a character named Cliff.