Clarence Gilyard Jr.: From Top Gun Hero to Beloved UNLV Professor

Clarence Darnell Gilyard Jr. (1955–2022) was a versatile actor known for his roles as Lt. Marcus “Sundown” Williams in Top Gun, Theo in Die Hard, Conrad McMasters on Matlock, and Jimmy Trivette on Walker, Texas Ranger. After decades on screen, he shifted to education as an associate professor of theatre at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he mentored students until his passing. Born in Washington into a military family, Gilyard moved frequently before settling in California. He married twice and fathered six children, though he kept his private life largely out of the spotlight. He died at 66 in Las Vegas after a long illness, with his family and UNLV honoring his memory. Over his career, Gilyard earned an estimated net worth of $5–8 million through acting, teaching, and investments. He is remembered for his professionalism, warm mentorship, and the seamless way he navigated action films, TV drama, and the classroom.

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