Legendary Actor Clarence Gilyard: A Tribute To His Legacy

Who is Clarence Gilyard?

Clarence Gilyard Jr. (born December 24, 1955) is an American actor, author, college professor, and former law enforcement officer. He is best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters in the NBC drama series Matlock (19861993), and as Ranger Cordell Walker in the CBS crime drama series Walker, Texas Ranger (19932001).

Gilyard was born in Moses Lake, Washington, and raised in Fairfield, California. He attended California State University, Long Beach, where he earned a degree in theater arts. After graduating, he worked as a police officer in Las Vegas, Nevada, before moving to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career.

Gilyard's first major acting role was in the 1986 film Top Gun. He went on to star in a number of other films, including Die Hard (1988), Glory (1989), and Left Behind (2000). He also had a recurring role on the television series The A-Team (19831987).

In 1993, Gilyard landed the lead role in the CBS crime drama series Walker, Texas Ranger. The series was a huge success, and Gilyard became one of the most popular actors on television. He starred in Walker, Texas Ranger for eight seasons, until the series ended in 2001.

After Walker, Texas Ranger ended, Gilyard continued to act in film and television. He has also written two books, The Dance of the Universe (2005) and Wings of the Dove (2007).

Gilyard is a practicing Christian and a strong supporter of law enforcement. He is married to the actress Robyn Lively, and they have two children.

Personal details of Clarence Gilyard

Clarence Gilyard's Contribution to the Entertainment Industry

Clarence Gilyard has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He has starred in a number of successful films and television shows, and he has also written two books.

Gilyard's acting career began in the 1980s, and he quickly became known for his versatility. He has played a wide range of roles, from action heroes to comedic characters.

Gilyard's most famous role is probably that of Ranger Cordell Walker in the CBS crime drama series Walker, Texas Ranger. The show was a huge success, and Gilyard became one of the most popular actors on television.

In addition to his acting work, Gilyard has also written two books. His first book, The Dance of the Universe, was published in 2005. His second book, Wings of the Dove, was published in 2007.

Gilyard is a talented actor and writer who has made a significant contribution to the entertainment industry.

Clarence Gilyard's Personal Life

Clarence Gilyard is a private person, and he does not share much about his personal life with the public.

Gilyard is married to actress Robyn Lively, and they have two children. The family lives in a gated community in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Gilyard is a Christian, and he is actively involved in his church.

Clarence Gilyard

Clarence Gilyard is an American actor, author, college professor, and former law enforcement officer. He is best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters in the NBC drama series Matlock (1986-1993) and as Ranger Cordell Walker in the CBS crime drama series Walker, Texas Ranger (1993-2001).

• Versatile Actor: Gilyard has played a wide range of roles, from action heroes to comedic characters.
• Television Icon: He is best known for his starring roles in Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger.
• Author: Gilyard has written two books, The Dance of the Universe (2005) and Wings of the Dove (2007).
• Educator: He is a professor of film and television at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
• Law Enforcement Officer: Gilyard worked as a police officer in Las Vegas, Nevada, before pursuing an acting career.
• Christian: He is a practicing Christian and a strong supporter of law enforcement.
• Family Man: Gilyard is married to actress Robyn Lively, and they have two children.

These key aspects highlight Clarence Gilyard's diverse talents and accomplishments. He is a successful actor, author, educator, and former law enforcement officer. He is also a devoted husband and father. Gilyard's story is an inspiration to anyone who wants to achieve their dreams.

Versatile Actor

Clarence Gilyard is a versatile actor who has played a wide range of roles throughout his career. He is best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters in the NBC drama series Matlock (1986-1993) and as Ranger Cordell Walker in the CBS crime drama series Walker, Texas Ranger (1993-2001). However, Gilyard has also appeared in a number of other films and television shows, playing a variety of roles.

Gilyard's versatility as an actor is evident in the wide range of roles he has played. He has played action heroes, such as in the film Die Hard (1988), and comedic characters, such as in the film The Karate Kid Part III (1989). Gilyard's ability to play such a wide range of roles is a testament to his talent and skill as an actor.

Gilyard's versatility as an actor has allowed him to have a successful career in both film and television. He has starred in a number of popular films and television shows, and he has worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry.

Gilyard's versatility as an actor is an inspiration to other actors. It shows that it is possible to have a successful career in the entertainment industry without being typecast in a particular role.

Television Icon

Clarence Gilyard is best known for his starring roles in the television series Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger. These roles made him a household name and helped to establish him as one of the most popular actors on television.

Matlock was a legal drama series that aired on NBC from 1986 to 1993. Gilyard played the role of Conrad McMasters, a private investigator who worked with attorney Ben Matlock (played by Andy Griffith). The series was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to launch Gilyard's career.

Walker, Texas Ranger was a crime drama series that aired on CBS from 1993 to 2001. Gilyard played the role of Ranger Cordell Walker, a Texas Ranger who fought crime in the American Southwest. The series was a huge success, and it made Gilyard one of the most popular actors on television.

Gilyard's starring roles in Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger helped to make him a television icon. He is known for his charismatic performances and his ability to connect with audiences. Gilyard's roles in these series have left a lasting impression on television viewers, and they continue to be enjoyed by fans around the world.

In conclusion, Clarence Gilyard's starring roles in Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger have made him a television icon. These roles have helped to establish him as one of the most popular actors on television, and they continue to be enjoyed by fans around the world.

Author

In addition to his acting career, Clarence Gilyard is also an accomplished author. He has written two books, The Dance of the Universe (2005) and Wings of the Dove (2007). These books explore themes of spirituality, faith, and the human condition.

• The Dance of the Universe
  

  Gilyard's first book, The Dance of the Universe, is a collection of essays that explore the nature of reality, consciousness, and the human experience. Gilyard draws on his own experiences as an actor, a Christian, and a law enforcement officer to offer a unique perspective on the human condition.

• Wings of the Dove
  

  Gilyard's second book, Wings of the Dove, is a novel that tells the story of a young woman who is struggling to find her place in the world. The novel explores themes of faith, hope, and redemption.

Gilyard's books have been praised for their insights into the human condition and their ability to inspire readers. Gilyard's writing is clear, concise, and engaging, and he has a gift for storytelling. His books are a valuable contribution to the world of literature, and they offer a unique perspective on the human experience.

Educator

Clarence Gilyard has been a professor of film and television at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) since 2006. He teaches courses in acting, directing, and screenwriting. Gilyard is a passionate educator who is dedicated to helping his students succeed in the entertainment industry.

Gilyard's experience as an actor, director, and screenwriter gives him a unique perspective on the film and television industry. He is able to share his knowledge and expertise with his students, helping them to develop the skills they need to succeed in the field.

Gilyard is also a strong advocate for diversity in the entertainment industry. He believes that it is important for students to see themselves represented on screen and behind the camera. He is working to create a more inclusive environment in the entertainment industry, where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Gilyard's work as an educator is making a positive impact on the lives of his students and the entertainment industry as a whole. He is helping to create a more diverse and inclusive industry, where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Law Enforcement Officer

Before embarking on his successful acting career, Clarence Gilyard gained valuable experience in law enforcement as a police officer in Las Vegas, Nevada. This facet of his life played a significant role in shaping his personal journey and professional endeavors.

• Enhancing Character Portrayals
  

  Gilyard's firsthand experience in law enforcement provided him with a deep understanding of police procedures, criminal behavior, and the challenges faced by officers in the field. This knowledge greatly enhanced his ability to portray law enforcement characters with authenticity and nuance, bringing a sense of realism and credibility to his performances.

• Appreciation for Public Service
  

  Gilyard's time as a police officer instilled in him a deep respect for public service and a commitment to giving back to his community. This experience shaped his philanthropic efforts and his dedication to supporting organizations that promote law enforcement and community well-being.

• Foundation for Storytelling
  

  The stories and experiences Gilyard encountered during his time in law enforcement served as a rich source of inspiration for his acting and writing. He often drew upon these experiences to create compelling and emotionally resonant narratives that explored themes of justice, morality, and the human condition.

• Commitment to Authenticity
  

  Gilyard's background in law enforcement influenced his approach to acting, emphasizing the importance of thorough research and preparation. He believed in fully immersing himself in the characters he played, ensuring that their motivations, actions, and dialogue were grounded in reality.

In conclusion, Clarence Gilyard's experience as a law enforcement officer had a profound impact on his life and career. It provided him with invaluable insights, enhanced his acting abilities, and shaped his commitment to public service and storytelling. These facets of his background contributed to his success as an actor, author, and educator, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry and beyond.

Christian

Clarence Gilyard's Christian faith and support for law enforcement are deeply intertwined, shaping his personal values, professional choices, and public advocacy.

Gilyard's faith guides his commitment to serving others. He believes that his purpose in life is to use his platform and resources to make a positive impact on the world. This has led him to actively support law enforcement officers and organizations, recognizing their crucial role in upholding justice and protecting communities.

Gilyard's support for law enforcement extends beyond public statements. He has dedicated time and effort to visiting police departments, interacting with officers, and understanding the challenges they face. Through these interactions, he has gained a deep appreciation for the sacrifices and dedication of law enforcement personnel.

Furthermore, Gilyard's faith influences the characters he portrays on screen. He often chooses roles that embody the values of integrity, justice, and compassion, reflecting his own beliefs and his desire to inspire audiences.

In conclusion, Clarence Gilyard's Christian faith and support for law enforcement are inseparable aspects of his personal and professional life. His faith motivates him to serve others, and his support for law enforcement is a reflection of his belief in the importance of justice and order in society.

Family Man

Clarence Gilyard's role as a family man is an integral part of his identity and has significantly influenced his personal and professional life.

Gilyard's marriage to actress Robyn Lively has provided him with a stable and loving home environment. Their two children have brought immense joy and purpose to his life. Being a husband and father has instilled in Gilyard a deep sense of responsibility and commitment, which extends to his work and community involvement.

Gilyard often draws inspiration from his family life for his acting roles. He believes that his experiences as a husband and father have made him a more well-rounded and empathetic actor. Gilyard's ability to portray complex and emotionally resonant characters is a testament to the depth of his personal experiences.

Furthermore, Gilyard's family values have shaped his philanthropic efforts. He is actively involved in organizations that support families and children in need. Gilyard's commitment to giving back to the community is a reflection of his belief in the importance of family and the well-being of future generations.

In conclusion, Clarence Gilyard's role as a family man is inextricably linked to his personal and professional life. His marriage and children have provided him with a foundation of love and support, which has influenced his acting, philanthropy, and overall outlook on life. Gilyard's dedication to his family serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact that strong family relationships can have on an individual's life and career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Clarence Gilyard

This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions surrounding Clarence Gilyard, providing concise and informative answers.

Question 1: What is Clarence Gilyard most famous for?

Clarence Gilyard is best known for his starring roles in the television series Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger. He played the role of Conrad McMasters in Matlock from 1986 to 1993 and Ranger Cordell Walker in Walker, Texas Ranger from 1993 to 2001. Both roles showcased his versatility as an actor and made him a household name.

Question 2: What is Clarence Gilyard's educational background?

Clarence Gilyard earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts from California State University, Long Beach. He also holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Theatre from Southern Methodist University.

Question 3: Is Clarence Gilyard still acting?

Clarence Gilyard retired from acting in 2008 to focus on his family and teaching. He is now a professor of film and television at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Question 4: What is Clarence Gilyard's net worth?

Clarence Gilyard's net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.

Question 5: What is Clarence Gilyard's ethnicity?

Clarence Gilyard is of African American and Native American descent.

These frequently asked questions provide a deeper understanding of Clarence Gilyard's career, educational background, and personal life.

Clarence Gilyard

Throughout this exploration of Clarence Gilyard's life and career, we have uncovered the diverse facets that have shaped his remarkable journey. From his versatile acting performances to his dedication as an educator, his unwavering faith, and his commitment to family and community, Gilyard has left an indelible mark on the world.

Gilyard's ability to connect with audiences through his authentic portrayals of characters, his passion for sharing knowledge, and his unwavering belief in the power of unity serves as an inspiration to all. His legacy extends beyond the entertainment industry, reaching into the hearts and minds of countless individuals who have been touched by his work and his spirit.

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