Gary Clarke was born Clarke Frederic L'Amoreaux, a name that reflects his French and Mexican ancestry. Growing up in the predominantly Chicano neighborhood of East Los Angeles, Clarke was determined to become an actor from a young age.
He started performing in community theater in San Gabriel, followed by stage appearances in Glendale and drama studies at the Pasadena Playhouse. To make ends meet, Clarke worked as a machine operator and newspaper delivery man.
Clarke's television debut came in 1957, followed by his first leading role in the low-budget film Dragstrip Riot in 1958. He went on to appear in a string of genre pictures, including How to Make a Monster, Missile to the Moon, Date Bait, and Wild Wild Winter.
On television, Clarke had a semi-regular role as Dick Hamilton in the series Michael Shayne, and later played Steve Hill in the hit western series The Virginian. He also made guest appearances in various shows and made-for-TV movies.
In addition to his acting career, Clarke has also dabbled in music, releasing the single "Tomorrow May Never Come" in 1962 and a cover of the theme from The Virginian in 1963.
Clarke has been married twice, first to actress Pat Woodell from 1964 to 1970, and then to Jerrene Beatty since 1991. He has two daughters and enjoys riding horses, motorcycles, and playing golf in his free time.
As an actor, Clarke has continued to work in the industry, appearing in shows such as Dynasty, The Young Riders, and Parkland. He has also had roles in films like Tombstone and has written scripts for the NBC spy sitcom Get Smart under the pseudonym C. F. Lamoreaux.
