Actor Clarence Gilyard Jr., known for roles in “Die Hard” and “Walker Texas Ranger,” has passed away. He was 66.
Fox News Digital was told by a spokesman for Gilyard that his death had been verified.
It has not been determined what caused the death.
Gilyard was a seasoned performer who later became a cinema and theatre professor and worked at the College of Fine Arts at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In a statement released on Monday, Dean Nancy J. Uscher informed the community of his passing.
“It is with profound sadness that I share this news,” said Dean Uscher. “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. He had a national and international following through his celebrated work in the theatre, in film, and television.”
“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,” Uscher continued. She added, “Professor Gilyard was a beacon of light and strength for everyone around him at UNLV,” said Heather Addison, the UNLV film chair. “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!”
