Frank Rondel
American actor Matt Clark, widely recognized for his role as bartender Chester in Back to the Future Part III, has died at the age of 89 on March 15, 2026, at his home in Austin, Texas, reports customreceipt.com via FoxNews. His passing was confirmed by family members and reported by several U.S. media outlets, with the cause of death identified as complications following back surgery.
Matt Clark was born on November 25, 1936, in Washington, D.C., and built a career spanning more than five decades in film and television. Known as a character actor, he became a familiar presence in American cinema, particularly in westerns, dramas, and television series. While general audiences most closely associate him with Back to the Future Part III, within the industry he was regarded as a dependable supporting actor capable of delivering memorable performances even in brief roles. In addition to acting, Clark also worked as a director, including on the 1988 film Da, further establishing his versatility in the industry.
Clark’s filmography extended far beyond a single iconic appearance. He featured in films such as The Cowboys, Jeremiah Johnson, The Outlaw Josey Wales, Brubaker, and The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension. On television, he appeared in series including Grace Under Fire, Little House on the Prairie, Bonanza, Dynasty, and The Jeff Foxworthy Show. His final on-screen role was in the 2014 film A Million Ways to Die in the West, according to media reports.
Family members described him as “an actor’s actor,” emphasizing that throughout his life he valued meaningful relationships and dedication to his craft over public recognition. His work contributed to the depth and authenticity of numerous productions, particularly in genres central to American film history.
Clark died on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at his residence in Austin. His daughter confirmed his death, and his wife provided additional details to media outlets. According to publicly available information, the actor died from complications following back surgery. Reports indicate that he had suffered a back injury months earlier, which required surgical intervention. No further medical details have been disclosed by the family.
Matt Clark is remembered for his long-standing contribution to film and television, with a career defined by consistent work across decades and a wide range of supporting roles that helped shape many well-known productions.
Earlier we wrote about Who Won the 2026 Oscars: Full List of Winners, Best Film, and Leading Actors Revealed