It is with a heavy heart that we share profoundly sad news with the Days of Our Lives community. The television world—and especially fans of daytime drama—are mourning the loss of Gil Gerard,

the iconic actor whose career spanned decades and touched multiple generations of viewers. He passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the age of 82, following a brief but aggressive battle with cancer.

Gerard’s passing sends a shockwave through the entertainment industry. Though his time on Days of Our Lives was brief, his impact was unforgettable. For fans,

it’s a reminder of the fragility of life and the extraordinary mark a single performer can leave on the hearts of millions.

A Memorable Return to Salem

In 1997, Gerard graced the set of Days of Our Lives as Major Dodd, a role that, while appearing in only six episodes, became instantly memorable. His character was a commanding military figure embroiled in high-stakes storylines alongside key characters like Dr. Marina Evans and John Black. Major Dodd arrived during a period of complex intrigue in Salem, where espionage, secrets, and personal vendettas drove the drama, and Gerard brought the gravitas and charisma needed to elevate even the shortest arcs.

Fans remember the tension he created in his scenes—the kind of suspense that left viewers speculating and talking long after the episode ended. Whether it was a subtle confrontation hinting at hidden conspiracies or his magnetic presence in intense dialogue, Gerard proved that even guest appearances could leave a lasting impact on the show’s sprawling narrative.

From Small-Town Roots to Hollywood Stardom

Gilbert Sirill Gerard was born on January 23, 1943, in Little Rock, Arkansas, during the tumultuous years of World War II. Growing up in modest circumstances, he discovered a passion for performance early in life, excelling in high school drama classes and school productions. Although he initially pursued chemistry at the University of Arkansas, the pull of acting proved irresistible, leading him to leave school and move to New York City to chase his dreams.

In New York, Gerard faced the familiar struggles of aspiring actors: relentless auditions, early rejection, and the challenge of breaking into the competitive world of television. His perseverance paid off when he landed a prominent role as Dr. Alan Stewart on The Doctors from 1973 to 1976. In this role, he portrayed a dedicated physician navigating medical ethics, personal drama, and intense romantic entanglements—experiences that honed the skills that would define his versatile career.

Becoming a Cultural Icon

Gerard’s breakthrough and most iconic role came in 1979 when he starred as Captain William “Buck” Rogers in Buck Rogers in the 25th Century. A seminal sci-fi series inspired by the Star Wars phenomenon, the show aired from 1979 to 1981 and made Gerard a household name. As Buck Rogers, he embodied heroism, charm, and vulnerability, navigating a futuristic world of interstellar conflicts, alien encounters, and high-tech adventure. Audiences were captivated by his blend of wit, courage, and relatability—a hero who could laugh, struggle, and inspire all at once.

The role not only cemented his place in pop culture but also demonstrated his ability to bridge genres—from the intimate storytelling of soap operas to the expansive spectacle of science fiction. Gerard’s portrayal of Buck Rogers remains celebrated at conventions and in fan circles, inspiring a new generation of science fiction enthusiasts and performers alike.

A Return to Soaps and a Lasting Legacy

Following his success in prime-time television, Gerard continued to take on diverse roles throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including guest appearances in TV series, made-for-TV movies, and reality programming. His 1997 return to daytime television in Days of Our Lives was a homecoming of sorts, allowing him to reconnect with the soap opera craft that had helped launch his career.

Major Dodd may have been a small role in Gerard’s extensive career, but it symbolized the versatility and commitment that defined his work. Whether portraying a hero navigating the cosmos or a military officer in the intricate world of Salem, Gerard brought nuance, authenticity, and a magnetic screen presence to every part he undertook.

Personal Life and Resilience

Off-screen, Gerard’s life was marked by devotion to family and a commitment to his craft. He was married multiple times, including an 18-year union with Janna Gerard, which lasted until 2007. Gerard also had a son from a previous marriage and often spoke about the joys and challenges of balancing family life with a demanding career. Despite fame and success, he remained grounded, crediting his Arkansas upbringing for instilling humility and resilience.

Even in his final days, Gerard faced his illness with remarkable fortitude. His wife Janna shared a poignant farewell on social media, quoting Gerard: “My life has been an amazing journey. See you out somewhere in the cosmos.” These words reflect not only his enduring optimism but also the adventurous spirit that defined his on-screen and off-screen life.

A Wave of Tributes and Remembrance

News of Gerard’s passing prompted an outpouring of grief and admiration from fans, colleagues, and co-stars. Aaron Gray, his co-star from Buck Rogers, remembered Gerard as “a true gentleman with a heart of gold.” Soap opera veterans from The Doctors and Days of Our Lives echoed similar sentiments, praising his professionalism, warmth, and generosity on set. Social media quickly became a space for fans to honor his memory, sharing favorite clips, artwork, and personal reflections on how Gerard’s performances had inspired them.

Conventions celebrating his iconic roles are now planning memorial events, ensuring that his legacy endures. Gerard’s influence spanned genres and generations, bridging the intimate drama of daytime soaps with the imaginative worlds of science fiction—a testament to the breadth of his talent and the depth of his appeal.

Remembering Gil Gerard

Gil Gerard’s legacy is one of versatility, resilience, and passion. He reminded audiences that every role, no matter how small, has the power to leave a lasting impression. From the intense, character-driven world of Salem to the farthest reaches of space in Buck Rogers, he brought authenticity, charisma, and heart to the screen.

As fans and colleagues mourn his passing, we are reminded of the timeless impact of great performers—those who touch our lives through their art, leaving ripples that endure long after the credits roll. Gerard’s contributions to television, both daytime and prime-time, will continue to inspire future generations of actors and entertain audiences for years to come.

On behalf of the Days of Our Lives cast, crew, and the broader television community, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of Gil Gerard. May his adventurous spirit soar among the stars, forever fearless, unyielding, and unforgettable. Rest in peace, Gil Gerard—you will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.