Die Hard and Top Gun star Clarence Gilyard Jr has sadly passed away at the age of 66, a statement by UNLV College of Fine Arts has revealed.
The actor's first appearance on the big screen came in Top Gun in 1986 where he played radar intercept officer, Lt. (JG) Marcus 'Sundown' Williams, starring opposite Tom Cruise.
His most notable appearance came in 1988 when he played alongside Alan Rickman as Theo in Die Hard. He was Hans Gruber's computer hacker as they attempted to gain control of Nakatomi Plaza. This was a role he reprised in 2020 when he appeared in a commercial for Advance Auto Parts across from Bruce Willis.
Gilyard also made small screen appearances, such as playing Conrad McMasters on ABC's legal drama series Matlock and James Trivette in Walker, Texas Ranger.
The actor then went on to gain an MFA in theater performance, and it was from here he took a role as an associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts.
It was the university that announced his death via a statement on Monday. As cited by Variety, UNLV film chair Heather Addison said: "Professor Gilyard was a beacon of light and strength for everyone around him.
"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!"
The cause of the actor's death is currently unknown.
Tributes have been pouring in for the late Clarence Gilyard Jr, including from fellow screen actors. Sons Of Anarchy star Chris Reed said: "Clarence Gilyard has passed away. RIP to a legendary screen presence."
Fans of the actor were also quick to pay their respects to the actor, with one saying: "Top Gun, Texas Ranger, Die Hard Tech Genius Thief, and Ace Investigator. RIP Clarence Gilyard, Jr. your talent for busting stereotypes is immeasurable."
A second fan added: "Clarence Gilyard was a huge part of the 80's and 90’s for me. Loved him in Die Hard, Walker, Riptide, and Simon & Simon. So sad to hear of his passing. #RestInPeaceClarenceGilyard."
The Die Hard star leaves behind six children and his wife Elena Gilyard.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans at this time.
