Sci-fi fans are mourning the loss of Gil Gerard — the charismatic star who brought Buck Rogers in the 25th Century to life. Gerard died on December 16 after a “rare and viciously aggressive” form of cancer, according to his wife, Janet. He was 82.
Before his passing, Gerard penned a farewell note that Janet shared on his official Facebook page — and it’s breaking hearts everywhere. “My life has been an amazing journey,” he wrote. “Don’t waste your time on anything that doesn’t thrill you or bring you love. See you out somewhere in the cosmos.”
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Gerard worked as a New York cab driver before landing a small part in Love Story — a random break that launched him into hundreds of commercials and, eventually, leading-man status. But it was 1979’s Buck Rogers that made him a household name, turning the former soap actor into a sci-fi icon.
“I signed 5,000 autographs in one day,” Gerard once told GenXGrownUp in 2018, reflecting on the show’s global cult following. The NBC series lasted just two seasons, but its futuristic style and Gerard’s swagger cemented its place in pop-culture history.
Off-screen, Gerard faced his share of personal battles — from health struggles to addiction — but he channeled his experience into helping others. He worked with Make-A-Wish, the Special Olympics, and organizations supporting women and children in need.
Gerard is survived by his wife, Janet, and his son, Gib, from his marriage to actress Connie Sellecca. In her emotional tribute, Janet called him her “soulmate,” writing, “No matter how many years I got to spend with him, it would never have been enough.”
A star who made space adventure feel human, Gil Gerard’s final message says it all — his story doesn’t end here. Fans everywhere will be looking to the stars tonight, whispering back: See you out there, Buck.
(Sources: Facebook, GenXGrownUp, PEOPLE)
I loved watching Buck Rogers back in the day. Gil was perfect in the role. He will be missed