- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Matt Clark, Western and 'Back to the Future' Actor, Dies at 89
The veteran character actor was known for his roles in several Westerns and a memorable appearance in 'Back to the Future III'.
Mar. 17, 2026 at 12:45am
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
Matt Clark, an actor known for his roles in numerous Westerns as well as a part in the film 'Back to the Future III,' has died at the age of 89. Clark's daughter, Amiee, told The Hollywood Reporter that her father passed away on Sunday in Austin, Texas, after dealing with complications from a broken back he suffered several months ago.
Why it matters
Clark was a prolific character actor who appeared in many classic Western films over the course of his decades-long career, cementing his place as a recognizable face in the genre. His role as the bartender Chester in the 'Back to the Future' franchise also introduced him to a new generation of fans.
The details
In addition to his Western credits, which included films like 'The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean,' 'The Cowboys,' and 'The Outlaw Josey Wales,' Clark also had a memorable part playing the bartender Chester in 'Back to the Future III.' Clark's daughter Amiee said he had recently broken his back and was dealing with complications from the injury prior to his passing.
- Clark died on Sunday, March 16, 2026 in Austin, Texas.
- He had broken his back several months prior to his death.
The players
Matt Clark
A veteran character actor known for his roles in numerous Western films as well as a part in the 'Back to the Future' franchise.
Amiee Clark
Matt Clark's daughter, who confirmed his passing to The Hollywood Reporter.
What they’re saying
“Matt Clark, an actor known for several Westerns and featured in 'Back to the Future III,' has died. He was 89.”
— Amiee Clark, Matt Clark's daughter (The Hollywood Reporter)
The takeaway
Matt Clark's passing marks the end of an era for classic Western character actors, as he leaves behind an impressive filmography spanning decades. His memorable roles in both the Western genre and the 'Back to the Future' franchise will ensure his legacy lives on with fans.
