James Tolkan

James Tolkan, an actor best known for his portrayals of authoritarian figures in films like 'Back to the Future' and 'Top Gun,' passed away on Thursday at the age of 94 in Lake Placid, New York. News of his death was announced on Saturday by his booking agent and in an obituary on the Back to the Future website, which stated he died "peacefully." While no cause of death was given, reports indicate he died at his home. Tolkan was particularly recognized for his role as Mr. Strickland, the stern principal of Hill Valley High School in 'Back to the Future,' a role he reprised in the sequel. Although he largely retired from high-profile film projects in the late 1990s, with a notable exception being the HBO biopic 'Phil Spector' in 2013, his earlier work cemented his place in cinematic history.