Gil Gerard dies at 82: What was the cause of death of the ‘Buck Rogers’ actor?
Gerard will be remembered by many as the charismatic Captain William “Buck” Rogers.
Gil Gerard, the face of a futuristic TV hero for a generation of viewers, has died aged 82, leaving behind a farewell message that captured both gratitude and grace.
What was Gil Gerard’s cause of death?
Best known for starring as Captain William “Buck” Rogers, Gerard died just days after being diagnosed with an unusually aggressive form of cancer, according to his wife, Janet. His passing came in hospice care, bringing a swift end to what he later described as a “deeply satisfying” life.
Before his death, Gerard wrote a short reflection that Janet shared publicly. Rather than focusing on illness, he looked back on decades defined by work, travel and relationships. “My life has been an amazing journey,” he wrote, crediting the people he loved and the opportunities he was given for making his 82 years meaningful.
His words carried a final piece of advice that felt unmistakably Buck Rogers in tone: “Don’t waste your time on anything that doesn’t thrill you or bring you love.” He signed off with a line that resonated with fans of his most famous role: “See you out somewhere in the cosmos.”
Gerard became a pop-culture fixture in 1979 when Buck Rogers in the 25th Century launched, blending post–Star Wars sci-fi spectacle with light humor. Though initially hesitant to accept a role he feared could limit his career, the show ultimately defined it, running for two seasons and cementing his place in science fiction television history.
Away from Buck Rogers, Gerard worked steadily across film and television for decades, from soap operas and disaster movies to a late-career appearance in The Nice Guys.
He is survived by his wife, Janet, and his son, Gib.
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