On November 28, 2022, the University of Nevada made public the passing of Clarence Gilyard.
“It is with great sorrow that I disclose this news,” expressed Nancy J. Usher, Dean of the UNLV College of Fine Arts, in the university’s announcement. “His students were profoundly influenced by him, as were all who knew him. He possessed many exceptional skills and was highly recognized in the university due to his commitment to teaching and his professional achievements.”
Gilyard, who worked as a drama instructor at the UNLV College of Fine Arts, was adored by his students and admirers alike. Although his death was unexpected for many, those who were close to him remembered him as a gentle and gifted individual.
Gilyard was born in 1955 in Moses Lake, Washington. After completing high school, he attended Concordia Lutheran College before transferring to the University of Washington. Eventually, he obtained his bachelor’s degree in 1976 and pursued a career in acting.
Throughout his career, Gilyard appeared in numerous movies and television shows, including Die Hard and Matlock. In addition to his on-screen work, Gilyard also directed several plays and conducted acting classes at various colleges.
At the time of his death, Clarence Gilyard’s total assets were approximated to be about $5 million. Even though he is no longer with us, his heritage will endure through his contributions to the entertainment industry and the lives he impacted.
The Path of Clarence Gilyard
Gillian is recognized as a drama instructor, writer, and actor and has garnered substantial fame throughout his career. He always endeavored to give his best in his endeavors. In Gilyard’s earlier years, he enlisted in the Air Force Academy cadets.
Regrettably, he resigned from his position a few years later, with the precise cause remaining undisclosed to the public. Subsequently, he made the decision to pursue a career as an instructor and writer.
Moreover, he earned a master’s degree in teaching drama at Southern Methodist University.
Later, he fulfilled his duties as an Associate professor in the Fine Arts Department of Theatre at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Gillian has always been vigorous in his work and has attained numerous accomplishments throughout his career.
He is a source of inspiration for many individuals aspiring to pursue their aspirations.
He spent 25 years working in television. In 1979, he relocated to Los Angeles to initiate his acting career and commenced his acting journey in the ”Different Strokes” series in 1981.
He starred in another TV series, “ChiPs.” After three years, he appeared in the series The Duck Factory. Gillian gained immense prominence from his initial three series. Later, he featured in numerous series such as Top Gun, The Karate Kid, and Part II. Walker, Texas Ranger” and Top Gun.
In 2013, he appeared in the TV series ArtScene and the final series of his career, A Matter of Faith, a religious film that garnered international attention.
As a performer, Clarence Gilyard appeared in movies, television, and stage productions. Clarence served as a consultant of the communications committee of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Awards and Accomplishments
Throughout his career, Clarence Gilyard received numerous awards, including recognition for Supporting Actor in Walker, Texas Ranger at the 1999 Lone Star Film. In 2000, he received Image Awards and many more.
