Gil Gerard, known for his role in the series Buck Rogers in the 25th century, died aged 82 on Tuesday 16 December 2025.
His wife confirmed the news of his death in a Facebook post. She wrote: “This is Janet Gerard, Gil’s wife. Just to clarify – I was by his side when my husband died this morning in hospice.”
She revealed that he died of a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
Janet also shared her husband’s final message to her fans: “My life has been an amazing journey. The opportunities I’ve had, the people I’ve met and the love I’ve given and received have made my 82 years on the planet deeply fulfilling.”
The message continued: “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.”
Gil’s message ended with a piece of advice: “Don’t waste your time on anything that doesn’t excite you or bring you love. See you somewhere in the cosmos.”
The iconic actor was part of several television series, including Lee Grant’s Airport ’77 and Appalachia comedy Hooch.
His role as Hooch was so impressive that Gil was invited to star in the 1979-81 NBC series Buck Rogers in the 25th century. Gil once stated that he appeared in 400 commercials before officially launching his acting career with his role as Doctor Alan Stewart on NBC soap The doctors.
