Clarence Gilyard, a professor and actor, died on November 28 at the age of 66. He was known for his roles in movies like Matlock, Walker, Texas Ranger, Die Hard, and Top Gun. Clarence’s passing was mourned by Nancy J. Usher, dean of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts, who described him as an inspiration to students and a smart guy. In her statement, Nancy claimed that Clarence loved his college job as well as his profession in the entertainment industry. She stated:
“His attitude of giving was boundless; he was always willing to contribute in any way to projects and performances. We remember Clarence with joy and appreciation for all he gave to the College of Fine Arts, the UNLV community and the world through his amazing personal achievements.
It’s sad that Alan Rickman, Alexander Godunov and Clarence Gilyard are all gone now. While Hans is a fantastic villain on his own, the care and detail given to his entire team (and the great performance from all of them) are a big part of why Die Hard is so special. pic.twitter.com/oNU4lVHZfl
— Eric Goldman (@TheEricGoldman) November 30, 2022
We remember Clarence Gilyard Jr., who sadly passed away yesterday. He was 66. Mr. Gilyard was featured as James “Jimmy” Trivette in getTV chapter Walker, Texas Ranger. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/0RZ9xbQeAu
— getTV (@gettv) November 29, 2022
Clarence Gilyard played Theo in Die Hard.
Clarence Gilyard has long been known for his impeccable performances in film and television. He does receive recognition for his role as Theo in the action thriller Die Hard from 1988. Theo was a terrorist and hacker who was a member of Hans Gruber’s organization. The fundamental concept of the movie is Hans Gruber holding everyone at gunpoint in Nakatomi Plaza. Despite knowing what was happening, Theo was only concerned with his work and had no regard for others. He was the only American terrorist in the organization, along with Eddie, and he had a tendency to joke after someone was killed.
In the photo, the African-American made his debut in a formal suit. He then donned a white jersey and was seen to the finish. Die Hard, directed by John McTiernan, was released on July 15, 1988. Despite being rejected by critics, it was a box office hit. Four sequels to Die Hard were released between 1990 and 2013.
Clarence Gilyard has performed in films, plays and television shows.
Clarence Gilyard, born December 24, 1955, graduated in 1974. Gilyard was a standout in both football and tennis. He worked in a clothing store and sold industrial chemicals before becoming an actor.
Clarence made his theater debut in 1979, which led to appearances on television series such as The Facts of Life, Riptide, The Duck Factory and others. Subsequently, he starred in films such as Top Gun, The Karate Kid Part II and Left Behind: The Movie. After a long absence, he returned to acting in 2012. He was known for his participation in the computer game Madden NFL, in addition to his successful film, theater and television projects. He previously married Catherine Dutko, whom he divorced. Clarence’s wife Elena and six children survive him.