‘Buck Rogers’ star Gil Gerard dies after sudden cancer battle

Gil Gerard, best known as ‘Buck Rogers’, died aged 82 after a rapid cancer battle, leaving fans stunned by the news

Gil Gerard, the actor who became a household name as the heroic lead of Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, has died at the age of 82. His death was confirmed by his wife Janet, who shared an emotional statement revealing that the illness progressed with devastating speed. According to her message, only days passed between the moment the couple realised something was seriously wrong and Gerard’s death.

Janet described Gerard as her soulmate and reflected on the intensity of their final days together. She wrote that no amount of time would ever have felt sufficient and urged others to hold their loved ones close. Her words immediately resonated online, where fans began sharing tributes, memories, and clips from Gerard’s most recognisable roles.

Gerard rose to international fame after starring as Captain William Buck Rogers, an astronaut who awakens more than five centuries into the future. The character first appeared in a made for television film released in 1979, which went on to perform strongly at the US box office. Its success led to a weekly television series later that same year, airing on NBC for two seasons until 1981. The show cemented Gerard as a defining face of science fiction television during that era.

Beyond Buck Rogers, Gerard maintained a steady career across film and television. He appeared in projects such as Space Captain and Callista, E.A.R.T.H. Force, The Nice Guys, and Days of Our Lives, earning respect for his versatility and reliability as a performer. While he never fully escaped association with his most famous role, many fans have noted that his warmth and charisma extended far beyond a single character.

Following his death, a statement written by Gerard himself was also released at his request. In it, he reflected on his life with gratitude, calling it an amazing journey. He spoke about the people he met, the love he shared, and the sense of fulfilment he felt after 82 years. He traced his personal path from Arkansas to New York, then Los Angeles, and finally North Georgia, where he spent his later years with Janet, whom he was married to for 18 years.

Online reaction intensified as excerpts from Gerard’s final message circulated. Fans quoted his closing words about seeking joy and love, with many describing the message as deeply moving. Social media users praised his optimism, while others shared childhood memories of watching Buck Rogers with family members. Several fellow actors and genre fans also acknowledged his impact on science fiction television, crediting him with bringing sincerity and charm to a role that defined an era.

Gil Gerard is survived by his wife Janet and leaves behind a legacy closely tied to a character that inspired generations of viewers. His passing marks the end of a chapter for fans who grew up watching him journey through the future on screen.