Clarence Gilyard Jr. was more than just a familiar face on the big and small screen—he was a part of pop culture history. Known for his unforgettable roles in blockbuster films like *Die Hard* and *Top Gun*, as well as the hit TV series *Walker, Texas Ranger*, Gilyard carved out a career that left a lasting impression on audiences across generations. His passing at the age of 66 sent waves through the entertainment world, sparking a wave of remembrance and reflection from fans and fellow actors alike. Whether you remember him as the slick hacker Theo in *Die Hard*, the charming Theo again in *Top Gun*, or the dependable James Trivette in *Walker, Texas Ranger*, there's no denying that Gilyard was a presence that stood out.

Though his fame was built on iconic film and TV roles, Gilyard’s journey didn’t stop in Hollywood. He went on to become a respected educator and author, proving that his talents stretched far beyond acting. His life was a rich tapestry of performance, education, and creativity, and in this article, we’ll take a closer look at the man behind the roles, his career highlights, and the legacy he left behind.

So whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering his work, this post will walk you through the life and times of Clarence Gilyard Jr.—from his early beginnings to his final days, and everything in between that made him a household name.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Clarence Gilyard
• Personal Details
• Career Highlights and Major Roles
• Notable Film and TV Credits
• Life After Hollywood
• Legacy and Impact
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Clarence Gilyard

Clarence Gilyard Jr. was born on December 24, 1955, in Moses Lake, Washington, USA. He grew up with a passion for the arts, eventually leading him to pursue acting as a full-time career. Over the years, he appeared in some of the most iconic films of the late 1980s and 1990s, earning a loyal fanbase along the way.

His breakthrough came in 1988 with the film *Die Hard*, where he played the role of Theo, a computer-savvy terrorist. That same year, he also appeared in *Top Gun* as Marcus “Sundown” Williams, adding to his growing list of film credits. But perhaps his most enduring role was as James Trivette in the long-running CBS series *Walker, Texas Ranger*, which aired from 1993 to 2005.

Beyond acting, Gilyard was also a director and educator, later taking on a role as a theater professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He continued to contribute to the arts in various capacities, making him a multifaceted talent in both entertainment and education.

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Personal Details and Bio Data

Career Highlights and Major Roles

Clarence Gilyard’s career was marked by a string of memorable performances that helped define an era of action and drama in Hollywood. One of his first major roles came in the 1988 action classic *Die Hard*, where he played Theo, the brainy terrorist responsible for shutting down the Nakatomi Plaza’s systems. His portrayal was both chilling and memorable, setting the tone for the film’s high-stakes atmosphere.

Later that same year, Gilyard appeared in *Top Gun*, playing the role of Lieutenant Marcus “Sundown” Williams, one of the elite fighter pilots training alongside Tom Cruise’s Maverick. Though his screen time was limited, the character’s cool demeanor and presence made an impact, helping round out the cast of one of the decade’s biggest hits.

His most enduring role, however, was as James Trivette in *Walker, Texas Ranger*, which ran for 10 seasons from 1993 to 2005. Trivette was a key character in the show, serving as Walker’s right-hand man and a moral compass in many storylines. The series became a staple of 90s television, and Gilyard’s performance helped make it a favorite among fans of the action-drama genre.

In addition to these roles, he appeared in *Matlock*, *The West Wing*, and various made-for-TV movies, showing off his range as an actor. He also stepped behind the camera, directing episodes of *Walker, Texas Ranger* and other television projects.

Notable Film and TV Credits

Clarence Gilyard Jr. had a diverse filmography that spanned over three decades. Some of his most notable appearances include:

• Die Hard (1988) – Theo
• Top Gun (1986) – Marcus “Sundown” Williams
• Matlock (1993) – Guest role
• Walker, Texas Ranger (1993–2005) – James Trivette
• Gunsmoke: The Last Apache (1994) – Major Withers
• The West Wing (2000) – Reverend Zeke Thompson
• Walker, Texas Ranger: Trial by Fire (2005) – James Trivette

His acting career was complemented by his work as a director, particularly on *Walker, Texas Ranger*, where he directed several episodes. He also directed the TV movie *The Last Rider* in 2003.

Life After Hollywood

After stepping back from the spotlight, Clarence Gilyard transitioned into academia, where he spent over a decade as a theater professor. He joined the faculty at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he taught acting and directing, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of performers.

In addition to his teaching, Gilyard also authored a book titled *The Black Aesthetic: African American Expressive and Aesthetic Theory, Historical Development and Application in Contemporary Culture*, reflecting his deep interest in the cultural and theoretical aspects of performance.

His life after Hollywood wasn’t just about education and writing—Gilyard remained involved in the arts, participating in stage productions and continuing to mentor young actors. He balanced his passion for performance with a desire to give back to the craft that had given him so much.

Legacy and Impact

Clarence Gilyard’s legacy is one that touches both the entertainment industry and the academic world. As an actor, he left an indelible mark on 80s and 90s pop culture, appearing in some of the most iconic films and TV shows of the era. His performances were memorable not only for their technical skill but also for the charisma and presence he brought to each role.

As an educator, Gilyard continued to inspire long after his time in front of the camera ended. His students remember him as a dedicated teacher who was as passionate about sharing his knowledge as he was about performing.

Even after his passing, fans continue to celebrate his contributions to film and television, often citing *Die Hard*, *Top Gun*, and *Walker, Texas Ranger* as highlights of his career. Tributes poured in from fellow actors and fans alike, with many expressing how his roles had become a part of their own lives and childhood memories.

Though he’s no longer with us, Clarence Gilyard’s work lives on through the characters he portrayed, the students he taught, and the stories he helped bring to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Clarence Gilyard’s most famous role?

Clarence Gilyard’s most famous role was as James Trivette in *Walker, Texas Ranger*, a show that ran for 10 seasons and became a staple of 90s television. He was also widely recognized for his performances in *Die Hard* and *Top Gun*.

How did Clarence Gilyard die?

Clarence Gilyard Jr. passed away on November 28, 2022, at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada, after a long illness. He was 66 years old.

Was Clarence Gilyard married?

Clarence Gilyard was married to his wife, Sheryl, for many years. She stood by him throughout his career and supported his transition into teaching and writing later in life.

Learn more about Walker, Texas Ranger and its impact on 90s television culture on our site.

Read more about how actors from the 80s and 90s have transitioned into life after Hollywood.

For more information about Clarence Gilyard’s life and career, you can check out his IMDb page, which includes a detailed list of his film and television credits.