Remembering Gil Gerard: 5 movies and TV shows that defined his career

Gil Gerard, also known as Captain William Buck Rogers of the cult television series Buck Rogers, passed away at the age of 82. His wife, Janet Gerard, announced through social media and said that he had passed away following a battle against cancer. Janet released his statement on her verified Facebook account.

"My life has been an amazing journey. The opportunities I.................love I have given and received ............82 years on the planet deeply satisfying."

His initial appearance in a role was in 1979. Within a very brief period, he was an instant fan favorite who left an indelible impression on the science fiction television series. After his performance Buck Rogers became a household name, ensuring his place in pop culture history.

Disclaimer: This article contains the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.

Here is the list of the five movies and TV shows of Gil Gerard that defined his career:

5. Killing Stone (1978)

Gil Gerard had one of his remarkable roles in Killing Stone, which was screened on NBC on May 2, 1978. The synopsis according to Rotten Tomatoes reads,

A writer, freed after serving a 10-year murder sentence , encounters a belligerent sheriff while trying to clear his name.

An IMDb user referred to Killing Stone as,

"One of the best 'Gil Gerard' movies."

Gil discloses the identity of the real murderer in this film's most challenging scene. The film has shown Gerard's skill and left a memorable impression on the hearts of the audience.

4. Airport '77 (1977)

Airport 77 was a worldwide success in the disaster movie genre. It is the third installment of the Airport film series. The film's lead cast included Jack Lemmon and James Stewart. Gil Gerard portrayed the role of Frank Powers.

As stated in the plot, a fully loaded luxury Boeing 747 carrying priceless art is hijacked. The plane crashes in the Bermuda Triangle, and the ones who survive get stranded at sea. Frank has to help save the passengers.

3. Little House on the Prairie (1974)

The Little House on the Prairie | Image via Prime Video

The Little House on the Prairie was among the most popular family drama series on NBC. It became a turning point for Gerard. He portrayed Chris Nelson who helped the Ingalls family around the house.

Michael Landon, an actor and director, was inspired by Gerard and subsequently gave him an opportunity on this major TV show. It was a very emotional episode of Gerard's television career, and it showed that he could play a family well in a natural setting.

2. The Doctors (1973-1976)

Gil Gerard starred in a popular soap opera on NBC, The Doctors, as Dr. Alan Stewart. The show ran regularly from 1963 to 1982. Gerard was presented as an honorable treatment provider at Hope Memorial Hospital.

His acting pushed the series to a new level of dramatization and expression by the production house. This professionalism proved his talent for drama on television.

1. Buck Rogers in the 25th Century (1979-1981)

Buck Rogers in the 25th Century | Image via Prime Video

Buck Rogers in the 25th Century was a swift sci-fi television series. Gil Gerard had to play Captain Buck Rogers, who had lived in his reconstructed world on Earth after the nuclear war, upon waking from his cryogenic slumber. Gerard made the role memorable by bringing in comedy and charisma to it.

The scene where Buck finds his parents' graves in old Chicago is one of the most heartbreaking moments of this show. This show made Gerard a household name and ensured he made his mark in television history.