Major Gale 'Buck' Cleven is the steady, revered bomber pilot at the heart of Masters of the Air — a calm, courageous leader of the 100th Bomb Group flying perilous daylight raids over Nazi-occupied Europe. Unflappable under fire and deeply bonded to his best friend 'Bucky' Egan, Buck embodies the quiet heroism and staggering attrition of the American air war.
His arc carries him from the deadly skies into the ordeal of a prisoner-of-war camp, testing his endurance and his hope. The series uses Buck to dramatize the courage, fear, and brotherhood of the airmen who suffered catastrophic losses, his composure a fragile shield against unimaginable strain. He is the still center of the chaos.
Austin Butler brings understated gravity and movie-star presence to the war hero.
Key Episodes
S1 E1
Part One
Buck and the 100th Bomb Group begin their dangerous daylight bombing campaign.
Gale "Buck" Cleven is one of the central figures in Masters of the Air, a war/drama/historical series that aired on Apple TV+ from 2024. Within the narrative of Masters of the Air, Gale "Buck" Cleven serves as a pivotal character whose decisions and relationships drive key story arcs throughout Limited series. The character's journey has been central to many of the show's most memorable and discussed moments.
Portrayed by Austin Butler, Gale "Buck" Cleven has become one of the most recognizable characters in modern television. Austin Butler's performance brings nuance and depth to the role, creating a character that resonates with audiences on both intellectual and emotional levels. Austin Butler's work has been recognized with 1 major award, reflecting the critical acclaim their portrayal has received.
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? Frequently Asked Questions
Austin Butler plays Major Gale "Buck" Cleven in Masters of the Air.
Masters of the Air is an Apple TV+ WWII drama following the airmen of the 100th Bomb Group, a companion to Band of Brothers and The Pacific.
