Actor and professor Clarence Gilyard Jr., known for his roles in Die Hard, Matlock, and Walker, Texas Ranger, passed away at age 66. Gilyard’s death was announced by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts, where he taught film and theater.
Gilyard gained notoriety after starring in the original Top Gun as pilot Sundown and Die Hard as computer hacker Theo. He also had long-lasting supporting roles in Matlock opposite Andy Griffith and Walker, Texas Ranger with Chuck Noris.
After work on Walker, Texas Ranger was complete, Gilyard received a Master of Fine Arts degree from Southern Methodist University and eventually took a position at UNLV as a professor.
UNLV Dean Nancy J. Uscher had this to say about Gilyard:
“His students were deeply inspired by him, as were all who knew him. He had many extraordinary talents and was extremely well-known in the university through his dedication to teaching and his professional accomplishments. Uscher continues, “His generosity of spirit was boundless – he was always ready to contribute to projects and performances however possible. We remember Clarence with joy and gratitude for all he contributed to the College of Fine Arts, the UNLV community, and, through his impressive personal achievements, to the world.
UNLV film chair Heather Addison also praised Gilyard: “Professor Gilyard was a beacon of light and strength for everyone around him at UNLV. Whenever we asked him how he was, he would cheerfully declare that he was ‘Blessed!’ But we are truly the ones who were blessed to be his colleagues and students for so many years. We love you and will miss you dearly, Professor G!”
Gilyard is survived by his wife, Elena, and his six children.
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