It’s a bit like, a quiet moment of reflection when we hear about someone who truly made a mark, especially in the world of films and television. The news of actor Clarence Gilyard Jr.'s passing certainly brought that feeling for many of us. He was, you know, a familiar face who brought so much to our screens, making characters feel incredibly real and memorable. His work touched so many different stories, and in some respects, he became a part of our own viewing memories.

For fans of action-packed movies from the 1980s, or perhaps classic television dramas that kept us glued to our seats, Clarence Gilyard Jr. was more than just an actor; he was a presence. He had a way of bringing a unique spark to every role, whether he was a quick-thinking computer expert or a steadfast private investigator. His performances, it's fair to say, left a lasting impression, making us laugh, keeping us on the edge of our seats, and just generally enjoying the show.

This article is a chance to look back at the life and career of Clarence Gilyard, a man who gave us so many wonderful moments. We'll explore the roles that made him a household name, think about the impact he had, and just remember the person behind those captivating characters. It's an opportunity, really, to celebrate his contributions to entertainment and honor the memory of a truly gifted performer who passed away at 66 years old, as a matter of fact.

• Plazoletas De Guaynabo
• National Black Empowerment Council

Table of Contents

• Clarence Gilyard Jr.: A Life in the Spotlight
• Personal Details and Bio Data
• Iconic Roles: From Action Thrillers to Beloved TV Dramas
  • Theo: The Clever Computer Expert in Die Hard
  • Sundown: The Sharp Radar Intercept Officer in Top Gun
  • James Trivette: The Loyal Partner in Walker, Texas Ranger
  • Conrad McMaster: The Trusted Investigator in Matlock
• Beyond the Camera: A Life of Learning and Sharing
• A Lasting Legacy in Entertainment
• Frequently Asked Questions About Clarence Gilyard Jr.

Clarence Gilyard Jr.: A Life in the Spotlight

Clarence Gilyard Jr. was born on December 24, 1955, in Moses Lake, Washington, USA. From those early beginnings, he embarked on a path that would see him become a widely recognized face on both the big screen and television. His journey in the entertainment world was, you know, quite extensive, spanning many years and showcasing a real range of talent. He wasn't just an actor, either; he also tried his hand at directing, which is pretty interesting when you think about it.

His career really took off in the 1980s, a time when action films were, arguably, at their peak. He found himself in some incredibly popular movies that, to this day, are still watched and enjoyed by millions. Then, as a matter of fact, he transitioned seamlessly into television, becoming a regular fixture in some very successful series. It’s almost like he had a knack for picking projects that would resonate with audiences, making him a beloved figure across different generations of viewers.

Clarence Gilyard Jr. passed away at his home in Las Vegas at the age of 66. His passing, naturally, brought a wave of sadness to his fans and colleagues alike. He left behind a body of work that truly speaks to his skill and dedication as a performer. It’s a reminder, perhaps, of the joy and excitement he brought to our lives through his portrayals, which is something we can hold onto.

• Yard Art Garden Center
• Colby Minifie Nsfw

Personal Details and Bio Data

Iconic Roles: From Action Thrillers to Beloved TV Dramas

When you think about Clarence Gilyard Jr., a few specific characters probably come to mind right away. He had this remarkable ability to make each role feel distinct, giving them a unique personality that stuck with viewers. It’s like he really understood the heart of each character, bringing them to life in a way that felt authentic and engaging. His work, you know, spanned different genres, showing just how versatile he truly was as an actor, which is pretty cool.

From the high-stakes world of action movies to the comforting rhythm of prime-time television, Gilyard made his presence felt. He often played supporting roles, but these were never just background parts. Instead, his characters were often crucial to the story, sometimes stealing scenes with their wit or quiet strength. It’s a testament, perhaps, to his talent that he could make such an impact, even when not the main focus. He was, in a way, a master of making every moment count, which is something to admire.

Theo: The Clever Computer Expert in Die Hard

One of the roles that many people remember Clarence Gilyard for is Theo in the 1988 action classic, *Die Hard*. Theo was the terrorist group's computer expert, a character who was, you know, calm, collected, and incredibly sharp-witted. He provided a very interesting contrast to the more aggressive members of the group, often delivering lines with a dry humor that really stood out. His intelligence was, in fact, a key part of the villains' plan, making him a memorable antagonist.

Gilyard’s portrayal of Theo gave the character a certain swagger, a confidence that made him both chilling and, in a strange way, charismatic. His famous line, "I am a professional. This is a professional operation," really encapsulated his cool demeanor, even when things started to go sideways. It’s a role that, arguably, showed his ability to play a smart, slightly arrogant character with just the right touch of menace, which is a difficult balance to strike. That performance, too, is a big reason why *Die Hard* remains so beloved.

Sundown: The Sharp Radar Intercept Officer in Top Gun

Before his villainous turn in *Die Hard*, Clarence Gilyard Jr. was also known for his supporting role in another iconic 1980s action film: *Top Gun*. In this high-flying drama, he played Sundown, a radar intercept officer. Sundown was, basically, the sharp and capable partner to Iceman, played by Val Kilmer. He was a crucial part of the team, responsible for navigating and tracking targets in the intense world of naval aviation. His presence added a layer of realism and competence to the aerial sequences.

Gilyard’s performance as Sundown, you know, showed his ability to play a reliable and skilled professional. He brought a quiet strength to the character, making him feel like a truly dependable member of the elite pilot group. It's a role that, in some respects, might be smaller in screen time compared to others, but it certainly left an impression on viewers, cementing his place in another major film from that era. His work in *Top Gun*, really, helped define the look and feel of those classic 80s blockbusters.

James Trivette: The Loyal Partner in Walker, Texas Ranger

For many television viewers, Clarence Gilyard Jr. is perhaps best remembered for his long-running role as James Trivette in the popular series *Walker, Texas Ranger*. As James Trivette, he played the loyal and dependable partner to Chuck Norris's Cordell Walker. Trivette was, you know, often the more by-the-book and level-headed of the two, providing a great balance to Walker's more unconventional methods. Their partnership was, in a way, the heart of the show, built on trust and mutual respect.

Gilyard's portrayal of Trivette really allowed him to showcase a different side of his acting abilities. He brought a warmth and a grounded quality to the character, making him relatable and genuinely likable. He was the kind of partner you could always count on, someone who had Walker's back through thick and thin. This role, obviously, endeared him to a massive audience over many seasons, making him a household name and a beloved figure in television history. It’s a role that, truly, demonstrated his enduring appeal.

Conrad McMaster: The Trusted Investigator in Matlock

Before his time on *Walker, Texas Ranger*, Clarence Gilyard Jr. also had a significant role in another well-loved television series, *Matlock*. He was best known for his role as Private Investigator Conrad McMaster on the legal drama. McMaster was, basically, the trusted right-hand man to the clever defense attorney Ben Matlock, played by Andy Griffith. Conrad was responsible for gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and generally doing the legwork that helped Matlock solve his cases.

Gilyard’s performance as Conrad McMaster, you know, showed his ability to play a character who was smart, resourceful, and incredibly reliable. He often provided the calm, steady presence that complemented Matlock’s more eccentric personality. This role, in a way, allowed him to build a strong rapport with audiences, showcasing his talent for creating characters that felt genuinely helpful and trustworthy. It was a role that, really, solidified his presence in the world of television, making him a familiar and comforting face for many viewers.

Beyond the Camera: A Life of Learning and Sharing

While Clarence Gilyard Jr. was certainly a busy and celebrated actor, his life was about more than just his roles on screen. He was, as a matter of fact, also an academic. Later in his life, he took on a role as a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), specifically in the College of Fine Arts. This transition, you know, showed a different side of his personality – a desire to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of performers. It's pretty inspiring, actually, when you think about it.

His time at UNLV allowed him to give back to the craft he loved, teaching acting and directing to students. He brought his real-world experience from Hollywood into the classroom, offering practical insights and guidance that only someone with his background could provide. It’s a testament, perhaps, to his commitment to the arts that he continued to contribute even when not actively filming. This aspect of his life, really, paints a picture of a man who was dedicated to more than just his own performances, but also to nurturing new talent, which is quite admirable.

This commitment to education and mentorship highlights the depth of his character. He wasn't just a performer; he was a teacher, a guide, and a mentor. It's like he understood the importance of passing on what he had learned, ensuring that the legacy of acting and storytelling would continue to thrive. His work at the university, therefore, adds another rich layer to his already impressive career, showing that his influence extended far beyond the characters he played. You can learn more about UNLV and its programs, for instance, which is pretty neat.

A Lasting Legacy in Entertainment

Clarence Gilyard Jr.'s career was, you know, truly lengthy and filled with memorable performances. He had a knack for bringing integrity and often a subtle humor to his characters, making them stand out in crowded casts. Whether he was a cunning villain or a steadfast ally, he always delivered a performance that felt genuine and impactful. His work, in some respects, became a part of the fabric of American popular culture, especially for those who grew up watching films and television in the 80s and 90s.

His passing at 66 years old marked the end of an era for many fans. Yet, his legacy certainly lives on through the films and television shows he graced. People still rewatch *Die Hard* and *Top Gun*, and *Walker, Texas Ranger* continues to find new audiences. His contributions, as a matter of fact, remind us of the power of good acting to create characters that resonate and endure. It’s a bit like, his performances are a gift that keeps on giving, allowing us to revisit those moments of excitement and drama whenever we choose.

Remembering Clarence Gilyard Jr. is not just about recalling his roles; it’s about appreciating the skill and dedication he brought to his craft. He was, arguably, one of those actors who could elevate any scene he was in, making even small parts feel significant. His work serves as a reminder of the magic of storytelling and the impact that talented individuals can have on our collective imagination. We can, you know, honor his memory by revisiting his films and shows, and perhaps sharing them with others. You can find out more about his career and other iconic actors on our site, for instance, here, and also check out this page to explore more about classic television shows.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clarence Gilyard Jr.

What roles did Clarence Gilyard Jr. play?

Clarence Gilyard Jr. played several very well-known roles across film and television. He was, you know, perhaps most recognized as James Trivette in *Walker, Texas Ranger* and as Private Investigator Conrad McMaster in *Matlock*. On the big screen, he made a big impression as the radar intercept officer Sundown in *Top Gun* and as the clever computer expert Theo in *Die Hard*, which is pretty cool.

When did Clarence Gilyard Jr. pass away?

Clarence Gilyard Jr. passed away at the age of 66. While "My text" doesn't specify the exact date, public announcements confirmed his passing around late November 2022. He died at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada, which is where he had been living, as a matter of fact.

How old was Clarence Gilyard Jr. when he died?

Clarence Gilyard Jr. was 66 years old when he passed away. He was born on December 24, 1955, in Moses Lake, Washington, USA, so he had just turned or was very close to turning 67, depending on the exact date of his passing in late 2022. It's a reminder, perhaps, of the many years he dedicated to his craft.