Actor Gil Gerard, best known for his role as the titular hero in the sci-fi series Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, has passed away at the age of 82. His wife, Janet, announced the news on Facebook, revealing that he succumbed to a rare and aggressive form of cancer after a brief battle. Gerard left behind a statement reflecting on his fulfilling life and career.
Obituary Details
Gil Gerard's death was confirmed by his wife Janet on social media, where she shared the heartbreaking news of his passing early on December 17, 2025. She described the rapid progression of his illness, noting that from the initial signs of trouble to his death, only days had passed. 'No matter how many years I got to spend with him it would have ever been enough. Hold the ones you have tightly and love them fiercely,' Janet wrote.
In a pre-written statement posted by Janet, Gerard reflected on his journey: '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. My journey has taken me from Arkansas to New York to Los Angeles, and finally, to my home in North Georgia with my amazing wife, Janet, of 18 years. It's been a great ride, but inevitably one that comes to an end as mine has. Don't waste your time on anything that doesn't thrill you or bring you love. See you out somewhere in the cosmos.'
Career Highlights
Gerard began his acting career with a regular role as Dr. Alan Stewart on the NBC soap opera The Doctors. He made guest appearances on shows like Hawaii Five-O and Little House on the Prairie before landing his breakout role as Captain William 'Buck' Rogers in the 1979 NBC series Buck Rogers in the 25th Century.
The show, based on the classic comic strip, followed Buck as he awoke from centuries of suspended animation in a futuristic world filled with robots and spaceships. He starred alongside Erin Gray as Colonel Wilma Deering and a robot sidekick Twiki, voiced by Mel Blanc. Premiering amid the Star Wars phenomenon, Buck Rogers aired for two seasons until 1981, serving as TV's lighter take on sci-fi adventure alongside series like Battlestar Galactica.
After Buck Rogers, Gerard starred in the ABC martial arts series Sidekicks opposite Ernie Reyes Jr. He continued with guest spots on Days of Our Lives and Drop Dead Diva, and appeared in films such as Airport '77 and The Nice Guys. His work left a lasting mark on sci-fi television, endearing him to generations of fans.
