How did Clarence Gilyard go from being a familiar face on our TV screens to a respected professor with a multi-million dollar fortune?
Known for iconic roles in Walker, Texas Ranger and Matlock, his career wasn’t just rich in performance—it was financially rewarding, too.
This article breaks down Clarence Gilyard net worth, income sources, and the financial legacy he left behind. From his prime acting years to his academic chapter, here’s a full look at how he shaped his wealth.
Clarence Gilyard Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Clarence Alfred Gilyard Jr. |
| Popular Name | Clarence Gilyard |
| Birth Date | December 24, 1955 |
| Age (as of 03/27/2025) | 66 (Died:November 28, 2022) |
| Birthplace | Moses Lake, Washington, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | BA – California State University, Dominguez Hills; MFA – Southern Methodist University |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Elena Castillo |
| Children | 6 |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | 5 |
| Parents | Barbara Gilyard, Clarence Alfred Gilyard Sr. |
| Height (meters) | 1.74 meters |
| Net Worth | $5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, Teaching, Book Publishing, Directing, Producing |
What is the Net Worth Of Clarence Gilyard in 2025?
Clarence Gilyard had an estimated net worth of $5 million at the time of his passing in 2022. This valuation remains a reference point in 2025 as no major updates have been reported.
His income stemmed largely from decades in television and film, bolstered by teaching and book sales.
Compared to other actors from his era, his financial standing was solid yet modest. He didn’t pursue commercial fame aggressively, which kept his profile—and income—more grounded.
His career choices reflect this preference for consistency over spotlight.
Related figures and names in his circle include:
- Chuck Norris
- Andy Griffith
- Bruce Willis
- Sheree J. Wilson
- Jim Carrey
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Southern Methodist University
- Sigma Chi
- Sterling College
- Catherine Dutko
Explore more actors with similar stories in our top Hollywood earners list.
Clarence Gilyard Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How did he build his wealth throughout his career?
Clarence Gilyard started building his financial base in the early 1980s when he transitioned from stage plays to television.
His big break came with CHiPs and The Duck Factory, where early roles added credibility and modest earnings.
Later, playing Conrad McMasters in Matlock and Jimmy Trivette in Walker, Texas Ranger significantly boosted his income. These shows ran for years, ensuring consistent paychecks and possibly syndication residuals.
His film roles in Top Gun and Die Hard added mainstream exposure and one-time paydays. Though not blockbuster star-level in terms of earnings, these roles cemented his reputation.
His shift to academia as a professor at UNLV brought stability and long-term income beyond Hollywood.
What were his main sources of income?
Gilyard earned from multiple channels:
- Television Acting – Long-term roles in major network series
- Film Appearances – Especially in action blockbusters
- University Teaching – As Associate Professor at UNLV
- Book Publishing – Including The Dance of the Star and Melancholy in the Mirror
- Occasional Directing and Producing – Like a 1999 episode of Walker, Texas Ranger
This diverse portfolio helped him maintain wealth even after stepping back from mainstream entertainment.
How much did he earn from his most well-known roles?
While specific salary details remain private, his long-term appearances on Walker, Texas Ranger and Matlock were likely his most lucrative. These shows ran for multiple seasons, providing consistent employment.
For instance:
- On Matlock, he replaced Kene Holliday and stayed from Season 3 onward.
- Walker, Texas Ranger spanned eight seasons and over 200 episodes.
He also had small but memorable roles in Top Gun and Die Hard, both culturally iconic. These films continue generating revenue through syndication and licensing.
What were his financial achievements outside of acting?
Outside of acting, Clarence Gilyard was a professor, writer, and occasional director. His contributions to education through UNLV and his publications diversified his income.
He also:
- Directed a Walker, Texas Ranger episode
- Wrote four books
- Participated in stage plays, including Driving Miss Daisy
- Voiced a coach in Madden NFL video game
- Reprised Theo in a DieHard battery commercial
Each endeavor, though not massive in earnings, added layers to his financial profile.
How did his lifestyle and values influence his financial decisions?
Clarence was known for modesty. He wasn’t driven by lavish living or constant media attention. After struggles in his early life—dealing with alcohol and drugs—he found stability through faith, education, and family.
This personal transformation likely guided him to choose long-term career stability over short-term fame. Instead of chasing blockbuster roles, he invested time in teaching and community work, which reflected his values and influenced how he managed money.
What was the role of his teaching career in his financial journey?
Clarence became a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2006. Teaching acting allowed him to pass on skills and maintain consistent income. It wasn’t just a job—it was a passion.
The role offered him:
- Professional longevity
- Academic credibility
- Connection to future talent
He integrated his Hollywood experience into the classroom, creating a unique space that merged entertainment with education.
Conclusion
Clarence Gilyard’s story is a reminder that success isn’t always flashy—it can be thoughtful, steady, and meaningful. Like, share, or explore more stories on Pennbookcenter.com.
