Matt Clark, a prolific character actor whose decades-long film and television career included roles in “Back to the Future Part III”, the sitcom “Grace Under Fire” and numerous Westerns, has died. He was 89 years old.
Clark died Sunday at his home in Austin, Texas, due to complications following back surgery, his wife Sharon Mays confirmed to Variety.
Throughout his career, which spanned from the 1960s to the 2000s, Clark became a familiar presence in westerns and television dramas, often co-starring with Hollywood’s biggest stars. He played a bartender in the hit 1990 series “Back to the Future Part III,” which moved the characters to the Wild West, played prison clerk Roy Purcell in “Brubaker,” and had a recurring role on the ABC sitcom “Grace Under Fire.”
Clark was particularly associated with the Western genre, appearing in numerous film and television projects, including Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean, Jeremiah Johnson, and Josey Wales. Over the years, he worked with actors such as Clint Eastwood and John Wayne. His film resume also included the cult favorite The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the Eighth Dimension.
On television, Clark made frequent guest appearances throughout the decades of network shows. His credits also include appearances in classic series such as “Bonanza,” “Kung Fu,” and “Dynasty.”
Described by his family as “an actor’s actor,” he loved the craft and worked with dedication, but had little interest in celebrity. Instead, they said they value the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues who share a passion for the profession and a strong commitment to family.
Mr. Clark is survived by his wife and additional family.
