Gil Gerard, Star of Buck Rogers, Dies at 82

Gil Gerard, remembered for his starring role in Buck Rogers, has died at the age of 82.

The news was shared on Dec. 16th by his wife, Janet, who posted a message to Facebook along with photos of them together. 

She shared that Gerard died after a short battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. According to her message, his illness progressed quickly, unfolding over the course of just a few days. 

She described their years together as deeply meaningful and urged others to hold their loved ones close.

A Final Message Shared With Fans

In a separate post published to Gil’s own Facebook page, Janet shared a farewell message he had written before his death. In it, Gerard reflected on his life with gratitude and a sense of peace.

He described his journey from Arkansas, to New York, to Los Angeles, and eventually to North Georgia, where he spent the last years of his life with Janet, his wife of 18 years. 

He framed his life as a full and rewarding experience shaped by opportunity, love, and connection.

The message ended with a note of curiosity and optimism, suggesting his story will continue beyond this life.

A Career Defined by Sci-Fi Fame

Gil rose to prominence in 1979 with the release of Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, a science fiction film about an astronaut who awakens centuries into the future. 

The movie was a great success and led to an NBC television series of the same name.

The series ran for two seasons, with Gil at the center of the franchise, before it ended in 1981. And the role cemented his place among recognizable sci-fi television stars of the era.

Work Beyond Buck Rogers

Although Gil Gerard as Buck Rogers was one for the ages, Gil worked steadily in television throughout the 1980s and beyond. 

He starred as a police officer in ABC’s Sidekicks and appeared in a wide range of made-for-TV movies.

Later in his career, he made guest appearances on shows like Drop Dead Diva and Star Trek: New Voyages, maintaining a connection to his science fiction fans while expanding into other genres.

Remembering Buck Rogers Actor Gil Gerard

Gil Gerard’s death adds to the growing list of celebrity deaths in 2025, particularly among performers who shaped television during the late 20th century.

For many fans, Gil will be remembered as the confident, futuristic hero who brought Buck Rogers to life, and as an actor whose career reflected both longevity and adaptability.

Gil Gerard’s life and career left a lasting mark on science fiction television. If this story resonated with you, consider sharing it with others who grew up watching Buck Rogers.