Clarence Gilyard Jr., well remembered for his starring role in Walker, Texas Ranger, died at the age of 66.
He made his film debut in Top Gun in 1986, and the following year, he was cast as computer hacker Theo in Die Hard.
Following that, the film and television veteran was a four-season series regular on Matlock before receiving his big break with Walker, Texas Ranger, where he starred in all eight seasons.
“I’ve been blessed.” Gilyard has worked with Michael Mann, John Avildsen, and Tony Scott in the past.
“There are performers who are more bright and have a better physical appearance, but the filmmakers who were interested in me said, ‘This kid should be in my film.’”
“He informed me that, while I would have to be adaptable and face the realities of the industry, working in this sector would allow me to achieve my goals.”
Gilyard was born in Moses Lake, Washington, although he and his family moved around the country before settling in California.
Gilyard was a member of the United States Air Force. Elena, the “Matlock” actress, had been happily married to him since 2001.
Gilyard earned a bachelor’s degree in acting from California State University, Long Beach, and a master’s degree in acting from California State University, Dominguez Hills.
He spent the last part of his career as an associate professor at the College of Fine Arts at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he has taught since 2006.
In a statement, the institution acknowledged his death, calling him “a source of light and strength for everyone around him.”
“Whenever we inquired about his health, he enthusiastically said, “Blessed!” We, on the other hand, were the ones who were truly honored to work alongside him and be his students for so many years.”
“We will miss you and love you deeply.” Professor G! According to Heather Addison, chair of the UNLV film department.
Dean of the UNLV School of Medicine Nancy J. Uscher remarked in a statement that “his students and all who knew him were greatly inspired by him.”
“He was well-known at the institution because of his passion for teaching and professional accomplishments,”
The circumstances surrounding Gilyard’s death have yet to be made public.
