Clarence Gilyard Jr.
ActingAbout Clarence Gilyard Jr.
Clarence Alfred Gilyard Jr. (December 24, 1955 – November 23, 2022) was an American university professor, actor, and author. As a performer, he appeared in film, television, and stage productions; some sources give his middle name as Alfred. Gilyard was known for his roles as second private investigator and right-hand man Conrad McMasters to Ben Matlock (played by Andy Griffith) on the legal drama series Matlock from 1989 to 1993; Pastor Bruce Barnes in the first two Left Behind movies; Cordell Walker's (played by Chuck Norris) Texas Ranger partner, James "Jimmy" Trivette, in the 1990s crime drama Walker, Texas Ranger; Theo, the terrorist computer expert in Die Hard; and Lieutenant (junior grade) Evan "Sundown" Gough in Top Gun.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Clarence Gilyard Jr. reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 21 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Drama
The majority of Clarence Gilyard Jr.'s filmography leans towards the Drama genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 29% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Clarence Gilyard Jr. remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Die Hard, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Clarence Gilyard Jr. Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Clarence Gilyard Jr.'s career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Clarence Gilyard Jr..
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | The Perfect Race | Coach Michaels | Hit | Similar → |
| 2018 | Christmas on the Coast | Fletcher Reese | Average | Similar → |
| 2016 | The Sector | Reverend Raines | Flop | Similar → |
| 2016 | Rabbit Days | Auguste Porter | Flop | Similar → |
| 2016 | The Track | Psychiatrist | Flop | Similar → |
| 2014 | A Matter of Faith | Professor Portland | Flop | Similar → |
| 2014 | Chasing Shakespeare | Jeremiah Ward | Flop | Similar → |
| 2012 | Little Monsters | Ben Foreman | Flop | Similar → |
| 2005 | Walker, Texas Ranger: Trial by Fire | Ranger James 'Jimmy' Trivette | Average | Similar → |
| 2002 | Left Behind II: Tribulation Force | Pastor Bruce Barnes | Flop | Similar → |
| 2000 | Left Behind | Pastor Bruce Barnes | Flop | Similar → |
| 1994 | Walker Texas Ranger 3: Deadly Reunion | Ranger James 'Jimmy' Trivette | Hit | Similar → |
| 1993 | Walker, Texas Ranger: One Riot, One Ranger | Ranger James 'Jimmy' Trivette | Hit | Similar → |
| 1990 | The Great Los Angeles Earthquake | Roy Bryant | Hit | Similar → |
| 1989 | L.A. Takedown | Mustafa Jackson | Flop | Similar → |
| 1988 | Die Hard | Theo | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | Off the Mark | James B. White | Flop | Similar → |
| 1986 | The Karate Kid Part II | G.I. #1 | Average | Similar → |
| 1986 | Top Gun | Sundown | Hit | Similar → |
| 1984 | Things Are Looking Up | Clement McCallister | Flop | Similar → |
| 1983 | The Kid with the 200 I.Q. | - | Flop | Similar → |
Clarence Gilyard Jr. - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Clarence Gilyard Jr.?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Clarence Gilyard Jr. is "Die Hard" with a rating of 7.8/10.
How many movies has Clarence Gilyard Jr. acted in?
Clarence Gilyard Jr. has been featured in at least 21 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Clarence Gilyard Jr.?
Other notable films include "The Perfect Race", "Walker Texas Ranger 3: Deadly Reunion", and "Top Gun".