‘Buck Rogers Star Gil Gerard Passes Away at 82’
Gil Gerard, the beloved star who portrayed Buck Rogers, has passed away at the age of 82. His manager, Tina Presley Borek, confirmed that Gerard died in a hospice setting after battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer. His wife, Janet Gerard, shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, revealing words he wanted to impart to his fans, encouraging them to seek joy and love.
Legacy of Buck Rogers
Gerard gained fame as the lead character in the NBC series “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century,” which aired from 1979 to 1981. The show followed a 20th-century NASA pilot who awakens 500 years later in a futuristic world. He contended with various threats, including aliens and the evil Draconians, with the assistance of his robot sidekick Twiki and space pilot Wilma Deering, portrayed by Erin Gray.
Early Career and Notable Works
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Gerard initially worked in television commercials before securing roles in various films and TV shows. Significant works include:
- “Hear No Evil” (1982) – TV Movie
- “Sidekicks” (1986) – Short-lived series
- “Code 3” (1992) – Reality series about firefighters
- Guest appearances on “Days of Our Lives” (1990s)
Personal Challenges and Triumphs
Throughout his life, Gerard openly discussed his struggles with addiction and weight issues. His journey of transformation was the focus of a 2007 documentary titled “Action Hero Makeover,” which chronicled his experience after undergoing gastric bypass surgery.
Gerard experienced a tumultuous personal life, having been married and divorced four times. He had a son, Gilbert Vincent Gerard, with actress Connie Sellecca, with whom he experienced a contentious custody battle. After these challenges, he found happiness with his wife, Janet, whom he married 18 years ago.
Final Reflections
In his final message, Gerard reflected on his adventurous life journey, expressing gratitude for the people he met and the experiences he cherished. His legacy as Buck Rogers endures, leaving an indelible mark on science fiction and television.
