Clarence Alfred Gilyard Jr. (December 24, 1955 – November 23, 2022) was an American actor, widely recognized for his roles as Conrad McMasters on Matlock (1986–95) and Jimmy Trivette on Walker, Texas Ranger (1993–2001).
He also had notable supporting roles in Top Gun (1986) as Sundown and Die Hard (1988) as Theo, the computer expert. In addition to his acting career, Gilyard served as a professor of acting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas from 2006 until his passing in 2022.
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Clarence Gilyard’s Net Worth
At the time of his death in 2022, Clarence Gilyard had a net worth of $5 million. He was best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters on Matlock (1989–1993) and Ranger James Trivette on Walker, Texas Ranger (1993–2001).
Gilyard’s career included over 30 acting credits, such as Top Gun (1986), Die Hard (1988), and Left Behind: The Movie (2000). He also directed and produced films, published several books, and taught as an Associate Professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Early life
Clarence Alfred Gilyard Jr. was born on December 24, 1955, in Moses Lake, Washington, to Barbara and Clarence Alfred Gilyard Sr., a U.S. Air Force officer. Growing up on Air Force bases, he was raised Lutheran but became Catholic in the 1990s.
After graduating from Eisenhower High School in 1974, he attended Sterling College before transferring to California State University, Long Beach, where he majored in acting. Later, he earned a Master of Fine Arts in theatre performance from Southern Methodist University in 2003.
Career
In 1979, Clarence Alfred Gilyard Jr. moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting, landing his first TV role on Diff’rent Strokes (1981). He guest-starred on several shows, including CHiPs (1982–83), and appeared in Top Gun (1986).
Gilyard’s TV career continued with Matlock (1989–93) and Walker, Texas Ranger (1993–2001). He also featured in films like Die Hard (1988) and Left Behind (2000–2002). In 2006, Gilyard transitioned to teaching acting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Personal Life
Clarence Alfred Gilyard Jr. was married twice and had six children. His first marriage to Catherine Dutko in 1989 ended in divorce, and he married his second wife, Elena Castillo, in 2001.
Gilyard also served as a consultant for the communications committee of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. After a prolonged illness, he passed away at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada, on November 23, 2022, at the age of 66. He is buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, California.
Did Chuck Norris and Clarence Gilyard get along?
Chuck Norris expressed his deep sorrow at the passing of his dear friend and co-star, Clarence Gilyard, sharing, “For nearly a decade, we had many great times working together, and we both loved bringing the bad guys to justice.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and children. You will be deeply missed by all who knew you.” Their strong bond and teamwork on Walker, Texas Ranger were evident, and Norris‘ tribute highlights the friendship they shared.
Conclusion
Clarence Gilyard’s net worth is a testament to his multi-faceted career and the impact he had on film and television. His legacy as a performer, educator, and author continues to inspire and will be felt for generations to come.
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FAQs about Clarence Gilyard’s Net Worth
1. What was Clarence Gilyard’s most profitable role?
- It’s likely that his long-running roles in “Matlock” and “Walker, Texas Ranger” were among his most profitable.
2. Did Clarence Gilyard have any endorsements or sponsorships?
- There are no known records of endorsements or sponsorships held by Gilyard.
3. How did Clarence Gilyard’s acting career begin?
- Gilyard’s acting career began with theater and his television debut on “Diff’rent Strokes” in 1981.
4. Did Clarence Gilyard’s net worth include his earnings from teaching?
- His net worth likely included his earnings from his role as an associate professor, which would have added a steady income alongside his acting residuals.
5. How has Clarence Gilyard’s net worth been managed after his death?
- Details regarding the posthumous management of his estate are not public, but it typically would be managed by an executor or family members according to his will and estate plans.
