Matt Clark's Poignant Final Reunion With Michael J. Fox Before Passing at 89
Matt Clark, the esteemed actor best known for his role in Back To The Future III, enjoyed a heartfelt reunion with his former co-star Michael J. Fox last year, marking one of his final public appearances before his death at age 89 on Sunday. Clark's passing was confirmed by his wife, Sharon Mays, who revealed to Variety that he died from complications following back surgery.
A Nostalgic Gathering at Dallas Fan Expo
According to reports from TMZ, Clark participated in a Back To The Future reunion at the Dallas Fan Expo last year, celebrating the original film's 40th anniversary. He reportedly caught up with Fox backstage before joining a Q&A session with the cast of the beloved movie series. This event served as a touching capstone to his long career, allowing him to reconnect with colleagues from one of his most iconic projects.
Clark's Memorable Role in Back To The Future III
In Back To The Future III, Clark portrayed Chester the bartender in the Wild West version of Hill Valley, set in 1885. His character famously witnessed the dramatic battle between Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, and Buford 'Mad Dog' Tannen, portrayed by Thomas F. Wilson, in front of the Palace Saloon. This role cemented his place in pop culture history, endearing him to fans of the timeless film series.
A Distinguished Career in Westerns and Beyond
Clark was deeply committed to his decades-spanning career in film, television, and theater, with a particular affinity for the Western genre. He worked on numerous notable projects, including:
- Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid
- The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean
- Jeremiah Johnson
- The Outlaw Josey Wales
In a 1991 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Clark expressed his passion for Westerns, stating, 'I just loved 'em. Just like you always wanted to do as a little kid, you put on chaps and boots and tie on spurs that jingle when you walk.' His work extended beyond Westerns, with appearances in films like The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension and TV shows such as Bonanza, Kung Fu, and Dynasty.
Collaborations With Hollywood Legends
Throughout his career, Clark collaborated with iconic stars, including Clint Eastwood and John Wayne, earning a reputation as a versatile and memorable character actor. Gary Rosen, director of Hacks, paid tribute to Clark in a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, describing him as 'the utterly unique character player who made every scene he appeared in memorable, often stealing them from stars like Rod Steiger, Robert Redford, Clint Eastwood and John Wayne.' Rosen added that Clark's roles helped elevate films to classic status and that his performances will be remembered forever.
Family Tributes and Personal Reflections
Clark's daughter, producer Amiee Clark, told The Hollywood Reporter that he had broken his back a few months prior to his death. In a statement, his family remembered him as an 'actor's actor' who felt 'lucky' for his genre-spanning career and noted that 'he died the way he lived, on his terms.' Clark is survived by his wife, Sharon Mays, and other family members, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and artistry in the entertainment industry.
