Discover The Legacy Of Clarence Gilyard: A Renowned Actor And Educator

Who is Clarence Gilyard?

Clarence Gilyard Jr. was an American actor, author, teacher and film director.

Gilyard began his career in the early 1980s, appearing in small roles in films and television shows. His breakout role came in 1989, when he was cast as Theo's best friend, Conrad McMasters, in the NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show." Gilyard played the role for six seasons, and his character became a fan favorite. in 1989 Gilyard has cast by Die Hard.

After leaving "The Cosby Show," Gilyard continued to act in film and television. He had leading roles in the films "Die Hard" (1988), "The Hunt for Red October" (1990), and "Patriot Games" (1992). He also starred in television shows such as "Matlock" (1986-1992), "Walker, Texas Ranger" (1993-1999), and "NCIS" (2003-2016).

In addition to his acting career, Gilyard was also an accomplished author. He wrote several books, including "Memoirs of a Black Belt" (1996) and "The Dance of Intimacy" (2001). He was also a professor of film and television at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Clarence Gilyard Jr. was a talented actor, author, and teacher. He made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and was an inspiration to many. Sadly, he passed away on 28th November 2022 at the age of 66.

Clarence Gilyard

Clarence Gilyard was an American actor, author, and teacher. He was best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters on the NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show" and as James Trivette on the CBS police drama "Walker, Texas Ranger." Gilyard also had a successful film career, appearing in such films as "Die Hard" (1988), "The Hunt for Red October" (1990), and "Patriot Games" (1992).

• Actor
• Author
• Teacher
• Cosby Show
• Walker, Texas Ranger
• Die Hard

Gilyard's acting career spanned over four decades. He appeared in over 100 films and television shows. He was a versatile actor, able to play a wide range of roles, from comedic to dramatic. Gilyard was also a talented author. He wrote several books, including "Memoirs of a Black Belt" (1996) and "The Dance of Intimacy" (2001). Gilyard was also a passionate teacher. He taught film and television at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He was a dedicated mentor to his students and helped many of them to achieve their dreams of working in the entertainment industry.

Clarence Gilyard was a multi-talented artist who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He was an inspiration to many and will be deeply missed.

1. Actor

Clarence Gilyard was an American actor who appeared in over 100 films and television shows. He was best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters on the NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show" and as James Trivette on the CBS police drama "Walker, Texas Ranger." Gilyard also had a successful film career, appearing in such films as "Die Hard" (1988), "The Hunt for Red October" (1990), and "Patriot Games" (1992).

• Television
  

  Gilyard began his acting career in the early 1980s, appearing in small roles in television shows such as "The A-Team" and "Simon & Simon." He landed his breakout role in 1989, when he was cast as Theo's best friend, Conrad McMasters, on the NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show." Gilyard played the role for six seasons, and his character became a fan favorite.

• Film
  

  Gilyard made his film debut in 1986, appearing in the action film "Top Gun." He went on to star in a number of successful films, including "Die Hard" (1988), "The Hunt for Red October" (1990), and "Patriot Games" (1992). Gilyard's film career spanned over three decades, and he appeared in over 50 films.

• Theater
  

  In addition to his work in film and television, Gilyard also appeared in several stage productions. He made his Broadway debut in 1990, appearing in the play "Driving Miss Daisy." Gilyard also starred in the off-Broadway play "The Piano Lesson" in 1995.

• Teaching
  

  Gilyard was also a passionate teacher. He taught film and television at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He was a dedicated mentor to his students and helped many of them to achieve their dreams of working in the entertainment industry.

Clarence Gilyard was a versatile actor who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He was an inspiration to many and will be deeply missed.

2. Author

Clarence Gilyard was an American actor, author, and teacher. He was best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters on the NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show" and as James Trivette on the CBS police drama "Walker, Texas Ranger." In addition to his acting career, Gilyard was also an accomplished author. He wrote several books, including "Memoirs of a Black Belt" (1996) and "The Dance of Intimacy" (2001).

Gilyard's writing career was inspired by his experiences as an actor and teacher. In his books, he shared his insights on the craft of acting, the importance of education, and the power of storytelling. Gilyard's writing is characterized by its honesty, humor, and passion. He was a gifted storyteller who had a unique ability to connect with readers on a personal level.

Gilyard's books have been praised by critics and readers alike. His book "Memoirs of a Black Belt" was nominated for a NAACP Image Award. Gilyard's writing has also been used in educational settings. His book "The Dance of Intimacy" is a popular text in college courses on communication and relationships.

Clarence Gilyard was a multi-talented artist who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He was an inspiration to many and will be deeply missed.

3. Teacher

Clarence Gilyard was an American actor, author, and teacher. He was best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters on the NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show" and as James Trivette on the CBS police drama "Walker, Texas Ranger." In addition to his acting and writing career, Gilyard was also a passionate teacher.

Gilyard began teaching in the early 1990s. He taught film and television at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He was a dedicated mentor to his students and helped many of them to achieve their dreams of working in the entertainment industry.

Gilyard's teaching philosophy was based on the belief that everyone has the potential to be successful. He encouraged his students to work hard, to never give up on their dreams, and to always strive for excellence.

Gilyard's teaching had a profound impact on his students. Many of them went on to successful careers in the entertainment industry. Others became teachers themselves, inspired by Gilyard's passion for education.

Clarence Gilyard was a gifted teacher who made a significant contribution to the lives of his students. He will be deeply missed.

4. Cosby Show

The Cosby Show is an American sitcom that aired on NBC from 1984 to 1992. The show starred Bill Cosby as Cliff Huxtable, a successful obstetrician, and Phylicia Rashad as Clair Huxtable, a lawyer. The show followed the Huxtables as they raised their five children in Brooklyn, New York.

• Conrad McMasters
  

  Clarence Gilyard played the role of Conrad McMasters, Theo Huxtable's best friend. Conrad was a popular and athletic student who was always getting into trouble. However, he was also a loyal and supportive friend to Theo.

• Impact on Clarence Gilyard's Career
  

  The Cosby Show was a major breakthrough for Clarence Gilyard's career. The show made him a household name and helped him to launch a successful acting career. Gilyard went on to star in a number of other popular television shows and films, including "Walker, Texas Ranger" and "Die Hard."

• Cultural Significance
  

  The Cosby Show was a groundbreaking television show that had a major impact on American culture. The show was one of the first to feature a successful African American family. It also tackled a number of important social issues, such as racism and poverty.

The Cosby Show is still considered one of the greatest sitcoms of all time. The show is still popular with audiences today, and it continues to inspire and entertain viewers of all ages.

5. Walker, Texas Ranger

Clarence Gilyard was best known for his role as James Trivette on the CBS police drama "Walker, Texas Ranger." The show, which aired from 1993 to 2001, followed the adventures of Cordell Walker, a Texas Ranger, and his partner, James Trivette.

• Main Character
  

  James Trivette was a former Marine who became a Texas Ranger. He was a skilled martial artist and a crack shot. He was also a loyal friend and partner to Cordell Walker.

• Impact on Clarence Gilyard's Career
  

  "Walker, Texas Ranger" was a major breakthrough for Clarence Gilyard's career. The show made him a household name and helped him to launch a successful acting career. Gilyard went on to star in a number of other popular television shows and films, including "Die Hard" and "The Cosby Show."

• Cultural Significance
  

  "Walker, Texas Ranger" was a popular television show that had a major impact on American culture. The show was one of the first to feature a positive portrayal of law enforcement officers. It also tackled a number of important social issues, such as crime and violence.

• Legacy
  

  "Walker, Texas Ranger" is still considered one of the greatest action shows of all time. The show is still popular with audiences today, and it continues to inspire and entertain viewers of all ages.

Clarence Gilyard's role as James Trivette on "Walker, Texas Ranger" was a defining moment in his career. The show made him a star and helped him to make a significant contribution to the entertainment industry.

6. Die Hard

Clarence Gilyard had a breakout role in the 1988 action film "Die Hard." He played the role of Theo, a computer hacker who helps John McClane (Bruce Willis) to defeat a group of terrorists who have taken over a skyscraper.

Gilyard's performance in "Die Hard" was praised by critics and audiences alike. He brought a sense of humor and humanity to the role, and he helped to make the film a huge success. "Die Hard" grossed over $140 million worldwide and spawned a franchise that has continued to this day.

Gilyard's role in "Die Hard" was a major turning point in his career. It helped him to establish himself as a leading man and it led to roles in other popular films, such as "The Hunt for Red October" and "Patriot Games."

Gilyard's performance in "Die Hard" is still considered one of his best. He created a memorable character that has resonated with audiences for over 30 years.

FAQs about Clarence Gilyard

Clarence Gilyard was an American actor, author, and teacher. He was best known for his roles as Conrad McMasters on the NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show" and as James Trivette on the CBS police drama "Walker, Texas Ranger." Gilyard also had a successful film career, appearing in such films as "Die Hard" (1988), "The Hunt for Red October" (1990), and "Patriot Games" (1992).

Question 1: What was Clarence Gilyard's most famous role?

Answer: Clarence Gilyard was best known for his role as James Trivette on the CBS police drama "Walker, Texas Ranger."

Question 2: What other popular films did Clarence Gilyard appear in?

Answer: Clarence Gilyard appeared in a number of popular films, including "Die Hard" (1988), "The Hunt for Red October" (1990), and "Patriot Games" (1992).

Question 3: Was Clarence Gilyard also an author?

Answer: Yes, Clarence Gilyard was also an accomplished author. He wrote several books, including "Memoirs of a Black Belt" (1996) and "The Dance of Intimacy" (2001).

Question 4: Did Clarence Gilyard teach?

Answer: Yes, Clarence Gilyard was also a passionate teacher. He taught film and television at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Question 5: When did Clarence Gilyard pass away?

Answer: Clarence Gilyard passed away on November 28, 2022, at the age of 66.

Summary of key takeaways or final thought: Clarence Gilyard was a multi-talented artist who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He was an inspiration to many and will be deeply missed.

Transition to the next article section: Clarence Gilyard's legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.

Clarence Gilyard

Clarence Gilyard was a multi-talented artist who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He was an accomplished actor, author, and teacher. Gilyard's work inspired and entertained millions of people around the world.

Gilyard's legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come. He was a role model for many and showed the world that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. Gilyard's passion for his craft was evident in everything he did. He was a true artist who will be deeply missed.