Tom Troupe, born Thomas Vincent Troupe on July 15, 1928, in Kansas City, Missouri, was a respected American actor and writer whose career spanned over seven decades. He passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 97, just five days after his birthday.
Troupe was known for his strong stage presence, memorable roles in films like Kelly’s Heroes, and guest appearances on television classics like Star Trek. Beyond acting, he co-founded The Faculty, a Los Angeles acting school, and spent much of his life performing alongside his wife, actress Carole Cook, to whom he was married for nearly 60 years.
Tom Troupe Wiki/Bio
| Full Name | Thomas Vincent Troupe |
| Date of Birth | July 15, 1928 |
| Date of Death | July 20, 2025 |
| Age at Death | 97 Years |
| Profession | Actor, Writer |
| Known For | Kelly’s Heroes, Star Trek (“Arena”), My Own Private Idaho |
| Hometown | Kansas City, Missouri |
| Last Residence | Beverly Hills, California |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Education | Herbert Berghof Studio, Manhattan |
Tom Troupe Early Life and Education
Tom Troupe was born in North Kansas City and showed an early interest in acting. In 1948, he moved to New York City, where he earned a scholarship to study acting under Uta Hagen at the Herbert Berghof Studio. His training was briefly paused during his service in the Korean War, where he was awarded the Bronze Star. After returning, he pursued theater full-time.
Tom Troupe Career Highlights
Troupe’s Broadway debut came in 1957 as Peter van Daan in The Diary of Anne Frank. Over the years, he appeared in acclaimed productions such as Same Time, Next Year, The Gin Game, and Romantic Comedy. In film, he starred in The Devil’s Brigade, Che!, Summer School, and My Own Private Idaho.
On television, he appeared in more than 75 shows, including Star Trek, Mission: Impossible, Frasier, Cheers, Cagney & Lacey, and ER. He also co-wrote and performed Sofi, an adaptation of Gogol’s Diary of a Madman.
He received a Career Achievement Award at the 2002 L.A. Ovation Awards, shared with Carole Cook.
Career Milestones
| Milestone | Details |
| Broadway Debut | The Diary of Anne Frank (1957) |
| Popular Roles | Star Trek, Kelly’s Heroes, My Own Private Idaho |
| Teaching | Co-founded The Faculty acting school |
Tom Troupe Family Life
Troupe was married to Carole Cook, a prominent actress and Lucille Ball protégé, from 1964 until her death in 2023. They often performed together on stage. He was previously married to Sally Singer, with whom he had a son, Christopher Troupe. He is survived by his son, daughter-in-law Becky Coulter, granddaughter Ashley Troupe, and several other relatives.
Family Details
| Field | Details |
| Spouse(s) | Carole Cook (1964–2023), Sally Singer (divorced) |
| Children | Christopher Troupe |
| Relatives | Becky Coulter (daughter-in-law), Ashley Troupe (granddaughter) |
Later Years and Legacy
After the death of his wife in January 2023, Troupe lived privately. He passed away in 20 July 2025, and tributes poured in across social media and entertainment outlets. Fans and colleagues remembered his contributions to theater, film, and television, and praised his discipline and warmth.
He left behind a legacy of strong performances, decades of teaching, and a celebrated partnership with his wife Carole Cook. Donations in his memory were directed to the Entertainment Community Fund and the Pasadena Humane Society.
Final Words
Tom Troupe’s life was marked by dedication, talent, and quiet influence in the acting world. Whether on Broadway, on screen, or in the classroom, he made a lasting impact that will continue through the many actors and audiences he touched.