Gil Gerard, renowned for his role as Buck Rogers in the beloved television series “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century,” has passed away at the age of 82. His wife, Janet Gerard, shared the news on social media, revealing that he had been battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
Celebrated Career of Gil Gerard
“Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” debuted on NBC in the early 1980s and ran for two seasons. The show, produced by Glen A. Larson, tried to capitalize on the Star Wars phenomenon yet had its own unique blend of camp and humor, especially through the character of Twiki, a robot voiced by Mel Blanc.
- Original Network: NBC
- Years Aired: Two seasons in the early 1980s
- Notable Co-Stars: Erin Gray as Col. Wilma Deering, Thom Christopher as Hawk
The series began as a made-for-TV movie, which later served as its pilot and gained moderate success upon release. Gerard’s portrayal of Buck Rogers made him a household name, but his career extended beyond this iconic role.
Post-Buck Rogers Projects
After “Buck Rogers,” Gil Gerard continued to work in television and independent films. He took on various roles, including Dr. John Harding in CBS’s “E.A.R.T.H. Force” in 1990 and a six-episode arc in “Days of Our Lives” in 1997. One of his more recent projects included a role in “The Nice Guys,” alongside actors Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling.
Personal Reflections
In her heartfelt message, Janet Gerard expressed the profound loss she feels. She noted, “From the moment when we knew something was wrong to his death this morning was only days.” She emphasized the importance of cherishing loved ones and the brief time they had together.
Gil Gerard’s legacy in the realm of science fiction and television will be remembered fondly. His contributions to the genre and the impact of “Buck Rogers in the 25th Century” endure, reflecting his talent and the joy he brought to many viewers.
