Hey there! It’s AndoMoney here. Let’s dive into the fascinating financial journey of Clarence Gilyard. Known for roles in TV classics like Matlock and Walker, Texas Ranger, Gilyard was more than just an actor—he was also a professor, author, and family man.
So, how did all these roles translate to his bank account? We’ll break down Clarence Gilyard net worth in-depth, looking at his salary, career milestones, and personal achievements that helped build his wealth.
Let’s uncover how each step in his career contributed to his net worth.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Clarence Alfred Gilyard Jr. |
| Popular Name | Clarence Gilyard |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | December 24, 1955 |
| Age at Death | 66 (Died: November 28, 2022) |
| Parents | Barbara Stanwyck Gilyard, Clarence Gilyard, Sr. |
| Siblings | 5 include Milton Gilyard |
| Birthplace | Moses Lake, Washington, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | California State University |
| Marital Status | Married (twice) |
| Spouse | Elena Gilyard (m. 2001) |
| Children | 6 include Peter Gilyard |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Teaching, Writing |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) |
What is the Net Worth of Clarence Gilyard in 2024?
By 2024, Clarence Gilyard‘s net worth remains valued at around $5 million. His wealth is rooted in his enduring roles in television and film, his academic work, and his publishing contributions. It’s worth comparing Gilyard’s net worth to that of other prominent figures in similar roles.
Here are a few actors connected to or similar in industry stature to Gilyard:
- Chuck Norris
- Andy Griffith
- Tom Cruise
- Jim Carrey
- Sheree J. Wilson
- Erik Estrada
- Bruce Willis
- Pat Morita
- Bruce McGill
- Dennis Haysbert
If you’re curious about how Gilyard ranks among the wealthiest actors in Hollywood, feel free to check out our list.
Clarence Gilyard’s Salary and Finance Overview
Acting Career Contributions to Wealth
Clarence Gilyard’s journey as an actor began in Los Angeles in 1979, where he debuted in plays and gradually transitioned into television. His roles in Matlock as Conrad McMasters and Walker, Texas Ranger as Ranger Jimmy Trivette became defining moments in his career, bringing long-term income through royalties and syndication.
Matlock alone placed him alongside Andy Griffith, securing him a prominent spot on television during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Meanwhile, Walker, Texas Ranger turned Gilyard into a household name and opened the door for continued royalty earnings.
Earnings from Key Television Roles
While Clarence Gilyard’s role in Walker, Texas Ranger was significant in his career, it was also one of his highest-earning TV roles. It brought him both an impressive salary and the opportunity for residual income as the show continued to air in syndication globally.
Additionally, his role in Matlock helped establish him as a serious character actor, boosting his industry value and reputation. This recurring role came with a consistent income, setting a foundation that supported Gilyard’s future endeavors.
Film Roles That Boosted Income
His appearances in Top Gun as Sundown and Die Hard as Theo are still well-known today, partly due to the preservation of these films in the Library of Congress National Film Registry.
This acknowledgment of cultural impact helped maintain the visibility of his work, keeping Gilyard relevant in entertainment circles long after the films’ releases. These high-profile projects contributed notably to his net worth, placing him among respected actors who made an impact through smaller yet memorable roles.
Academic and Teaching Career as a Financial Asset
In 2006, Clarence Gilyard took his experience to the classroom, joining University of Nevada, Las Vegas as an associate professor. His academic role not only added stability to his income but also allowed him to share his expertise with the next generation of actors.
His salary as a professor may not have matched his on-screen earnings, but it added financial security and diversified his income sources. Teaching at UNLV became one of Gilyard’s meaningful legacies, showing his dedication to arts education and supporting his career outside of Hollywood.
Books and Publications That Added to His Wealth
Clarence Gilyard was also an accomplished author, having published several works that explored themes beyond his acting career. Titles like The Dance of the Star and Memories of a Stranger Wanderer offered personal reflections and insights, solidifying his influence as an artist and author.
Although these publications were not necessarily massive bestsellers, they added to his portfolio, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to storytelling.
Awards and Achievements Reflecting Financial Success
Winning awards like the Lone Star Film & Television Award and an NAACP Image Award helped validate Gilyard’s work and boosted his credibility in Hollywood. These accolades weren’t just career milestones; they also opened doors for higher-paying roles and increased his market value.
This recognition, combined with his body of work, confirmed Gilyard’s standing in Hollywood and underscored his financial success in the industry.
Personal Investments and Wealth Management
Clarence Gilyard’s financial journey was also shaped by his investment choices and strategic wealth management. He reportedly made thoughtful investment decisions that helped secure his net worth.
Although not much is publicly known about his specific investments, Gilyard’s financial stability suggests prudent choices that preserved his wealth over the years.
Religious and Community Contributions
Faith played a significant role in Gilyard’s life. In addition to his conversion to Catholicism, he was actively involved with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
His charitable efforts were notable and showed a different side of his legacy, where he used his resources to give back to his community and support causes important to him.
FAQs about Clarence Gilyard
What roles did Clarence Gilyard play in Walker, Texas Ranger and Matlock?
Gilyard starred as Ranger Jimmy Trivette in Walker, Texas Ranger and Conrad McMasters in Matlock. These roles became iconic, elevating his career.
How did his role in Die Hard influence his career?
Playing Theo, the tech-savvy villain in Die Hard, gave Gilyard an unforgettable Hollywood moment, showcasing his range and adding to his lasting fame.
Did Clarence Gilyard have any teaching roles outside of acting?
Yes, Gilyard taught stage and screen acting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. His role as a professor added stability to his career post-Hollywood.
What are some of his notable film appearances?
In addition to Die Hard, Gilyard appeared in Top Gun as Sundown and The Karate Kid Part II, each contributing to his public profile and financial success.
What awards did he win during his career?
Gilyard won a Lone Star Film & Television Award and an NAACP Image Award, both underscoring his achievements in acting.
How many children did he have?
Gilyard had six children and was a family man who valued his personal life alongside his career.
What did Clarence Gilyard do after his acting career?
After acting, Gilyard became a professor and author, dedicating much of his later years to teaching and writing.
Was he involved in community or religious activities?
Yes, Gilyard converted to Catholicism and was involved with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, showcasing his commitment to faith.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed learning about Clarence Gilyard’s financial journey! If you have questions or thoughts, please leave a comment below. You can also check out more on celebrity finances at AndoMoney.
