Buck Rogers Star Gil Gerard Dies at 82

Gil Gerard, famed for his portrayal of Buck Rogers, has died at the age of 82. His wife, Janet Gerard, announced his passing on Facebook, revealing that he lost his battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. She expressed her deep sorrow, reflecting on their time together.

Legacy of Buck Rogers

Gerard rose to prominence with the 1979 film “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century,” which later evolved into a successful television series running from 1979 to 1981. This show consisted of 32 episodes and solidified his place in science fiction history.

Early Career and Breakthrough

• Born in Little Rock, Arkansas.
• Migrated to New York in 1969 for training as an actor.
• Worked as a taxi driver, leading to an opportunity in the 1970 film “Love Story.”

This initial experience ignited his passion, prompting Gerard to pursue acting full-time. He appeared in numerous commercials and secured roles in films like “Airport ’77” and “Hooch.”

A pivotal moment in his career came with a guest appearance on “Little House on the Prairie.” This caught the attention of the show’s star, Michael Landon, who offered Gerard a role in a new series. Though the series was not picked up, NBC recognized his talent and cast him in the lead role of “Buck Rogers.”

Personal Life and Other Appearances

Throughout his life, Gerard was married and divorced four times. He is survived by his son, Gib Gerard, who also works in the acting industry. He was a well-known figure at pop-culture conventions like Dragon Con, where he was honored posthumously.

Final Thoughts

In a message shared on his own Facebook page before his passing, Gerard reflected on his life. He emphasized the significance of love and enriching experiences. His journey took him from Arkansas to New York, then to Los Angeles, eventually settling in North Georgia with Janet, his wife of 18 years. He expressed a desire for others to cherish their time and embrace what brings joy.

The community, including Dragon Con, mourns his loss, acknowledging his influence and contributions to the world of science fiction. Gilbert Gerard will be remembered not just as an actor, but as a beloved icon within the pop culture landscape.