Gil Gerard, the charismatic actor who brought Captain William “Buck” Rogers to life and captured the hearts of sci-fi fans everywhere, has passed away at 82.
He died on December 16, 2025, after a short but fierce battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. His wife, Janet Gerard, shared the sad news, noting he was in hospice care in Georgia at the time.
Roots in Arkansas and an Unexpected Path
Born Gilbert Cyril Gerard on January 23, 1943, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Gil grew up far from the bright lights of Hollywood. The youngest of three boys, he started out practical—studying chemistry at the University of Central Arkansas and later working as an industrial chemist analyzing petroleum.
But something didn’t sit right. The steady job felt too routine, too predictable. In his own words years later, he realized it wasn’t what he wanted to be doing decades down the line. So he packed up, headed to New York City in the late 1960s, and chased a dream.
To make ends meet, he drove a taxi at night while taking acting classes during the day. He modeled, landed hundreds of commercials, and slowly built momentum with small roles.
Building a Career, One Role at a Time
Gerard’s persistence paid off. He spent years on the soap opera The Doctors, appeared in films like Airport ’77, and even produced a few projects, including the 1977 movie Hooch.
He guest-starred on shows like Little House on the Prairie and later led the short-lived martial arts series Sidekicks in the mid-1980s. There was also a stint hosting the reality series Code 3 in the ’90s.
Yet nothing prepared him for the role that would define his legacy.
The Role That Launched Him into the 25th Century
In 1979, Gerard stepped into the tight-fitting spacesuit of Buck Rogers—a wise-cracking astronaut thawed out after centuries in suspended animation, navigating a futuristic world.
The character first appeared in a theatrical film, which proved popular enough to spin off into an NBC series running from 1979 to 1981. Opposite Erin Gray as the sharp Colonel Wilma Deering and with Mel Blanc voicing the quirky robot Twiki, the show blended action, humor, and that classic campy charm.
Gerard initially hesitated, worried it might pigeonhole him like some superhero roles had done for others. But he took the leap, and Buck Rogers became an icon—bringing space adventure to a new generation just as Star Wars fever was peaking.
Fans adored his easy confidence and quick wit on screen. Even decades later, he’d light up conventions like Dragon Con, where attendees lined up for photos and stories.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Off camera, Gerard faced his share of challenges. He struggled with weight for years, once reaching 350 pounds and openly sharing how it cost him roles and opportunities. In the early 2000s, he underwent gastric bypass surgery and documented the journey in a Discovery Health special called Action Hero Makeover.
He was married four times, including a high-profile union with actress Connie Sellecca that produced his son, Gib, who’s also pursued acting. For the last 18 years, though, Janet was by his side—what he called his true soulmate.
Gerard stayed connected to fans through social media, often reflecting on his Arkansas roots and longtime friendship with Bill Clinton.
A Moving Final Message
In a poignant touch, Gerard prepared words for this moment. Posted after his passing, he wrote:
“My life has been an amazing journey. The opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve met and the love I have given and received have made my 82 years on the planet deeply satisfying… Don’t waste your time on anything that doesn’t thrill you or bring you love. See you out somewhere in the cosmos.”
Janet added her own heartbreaking note: “No matter how many years I got to spend with him it would never have been enough. Hold the ones you have tightly and love them fiercely.”
Tributes poured in quickly from co-stars, convention organizers, and fans who grew up watching his adventures.
Gil Gerard leaves behind a legacy of bold choices, resilience, and that unforgettable swagger in the 25th century. He’ll be missed—but somehow, it feels fitting to think of him out there among the stars.
