Clarence Gilyard Jr.American actor, university professor, and writer best known for his work on television shows. Walker, Texas Ranger as well as matlock— died at the age of 66. The University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) College of Fine Arts, where Gilyard taught film and theater, confirmed the tragic news in a press release from the institution.
Although there are no details about the actor’s sudden death, it is reported that he suffered from a long illness. Having established himself as a film and theater professional for decades, Gilyard has entered the world of teaching, especially film and theater, at the UNLV Film Department since 2006. The actor put his acting career on hold to focus on teaching, but before working as a university professor, Gilyard spent nearly half of his life in the spotlight. Most notably, he played private investigator Conrad McMasters in matlock.
Gilyard Jr. is also known for his portrayal of technology expert Theo in John McTiernan- 1988 film director tenacious, opposite Bruce Willis. Beside Chuck Norris, he also starred in the long-running 1993 television series as James Trivette on CBS. Walker, Texas Ranger. His other notable acting credits in films include the 1986 release Best shooter as Lieutenant Marcus “Sunset” Williams, 1987 film wrong addressand the 2014 movie A Matter of Faith, among others. On television, he has received notable roles in various shows, including different strokes, Things are getting better, Simon and Simon, Facts from life, Los Angeles Takedownas well as Great earthquake in Los Angelesto mention a few. In 2021, Gilyard reunited with Willis when he reprized his role as Theo in a two-minute tenacious battery advertisement during Super Bowl LV.
In a statement by the Dean of the UNLV College of Fine Arts Nancy Usher shared that the university will remember the late actor with “joy and gratitude” not only for his accomplishments as an actor and professor, but also for his contributions to the educational institution. “His students were deeply inspired by him, as were all who knew him. He had many outstanding talents and was extremely renowned at the university for his dedication to teaching and his professional achievements,” Usher said, adding, “His generosity of spirit was boundless – he was always ready to contribute to projects and performances to the extent it was possible. We remember Clarence with joy and gratitude for all he has done for the College of Fine Arts, the UNLV community and, through his impressive personal accomplishments, for the world.”
On the other hand, Heather Addison, chair of the UNLV Department of Cinematography, described how Professor Gilyard has been a blessing to his colleagues and students since he began teaching at the university in 2006. “Professor Hilliard was a beacon of light and strength to all those around him. UNLV. Whenever we asked him how he felt, he happily declared that he was “Blessed!” But we are really the ones who were lucky enough to be his colleagues and students for so many years. We love you and will miss you very much Professor Gee!”
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Gilyard Jr. at this difficult time.
Source: Collider
