Veteran American actor and writer Tom Troupe, known for his extensive career across stage, film, and television, passed away on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at his Beverly Hills home. He was 97 years old and died of natural causes, just five days after his 97th birthday.
Born Thomas Troupe on July 15, 1928, in North Kansas City, Missouri, Troupe's passion for acting led him to New York City in 1948. He honed his craft studying under acclaimed acting coach Uta Hagen at the Herbert Berghof Studio. His career was briefly interrupted by service in the Korean War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star.
Troupe made his Broadway debut in 1957, playing Peter in the original production of "The Diary of Anne Frank." While primarily a stage performer, he seamlessly transitioned to screen, appearing in over 70 television shows, often in single episodes, and numerous films.
His recognizable face graced iconic television series such as "Star Trek" (as Lt. Harold in the episode "Arena"), "Mission: Impossible" (as David Day), "Cheers" (as Judge William E. Grey), "Frasier," "ER," "The Wild Wild West," "CHiPs," "Cagney & Lacey," and "Murder, She Wrote."
On the big screen, Troupe appeared in films like "The Big Fisherman" (1959), "The Devil's Brigade" (1968), "Kelly's Heroes" (1970) alongside Clint Eastwood, "Summer School" (1987), and "My Own Private Idaho" (1991) with River Phoenix and Keanu Reeves. He also co-wrote and starred in the 1968 film "Sofi," based on his co-written play "The Diary of a Madman."
A devoted theater artist throughout his life, Troupe frequently collaborated with his wife, actress Carole Cook. The couple, married for nearly 60 years until Cook's passing in 2023, starred in productions such as "The Lion in Winter," "Father's Day," and "The Gin Game." In 2002, they were jointly honored with the Theatre Ovation Award for Career Achievement, marking the first time a married couple received the distinction.
Tom Troupe is survived by his son, Christopher Troupe, his daughter-in-law, Becky Coulter, and his granddaughter, Ashley Troupe, as well as nieces and nephews. His decades-long career, marked by versatility and dedication, leaves an enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.