Tristan Rogers, the renowned Australian actor famed for his role as Robert Scorpio on General Hospital, has sadly passed away at the age of 79.
His death was confirmed by his long-term manager, Meryl Soodak, to ABC 7 Eyewitness News on Friday, Aug. 15. In July, it was disclosed that Rogers had been diagnosed with cancer.
This follows some other sad news from the cast of General Hospital after two other stars passed away recently too, actors Chris Robinson and Joe Marinelli.
Soodak told the outlet that Rogers’ role in General Hospital “meant everything to him”.
“He loved being Scorpio and he created that role from nothing,” Soodak added. “He was supposed to work a day and he ended up making it into something huge. He was just a genuinely loyal, kind human being and he loved his family,” reports the Express.
(Image: Getty)
Earlier, Tristan Rogers, an icon of General Hospital, revealed he was battling cancer. The news was shared in a statement by his friend and publicist, Anthony Turk, obtained by Soap Opera Digest.
Rogers, aged 79, is best known for his roles in The Young and the Restless and General Hospital.
“Beloved Emmy-winning actor Tristan Rogers, best known for his role as Robert Scorpio on the daytime drama, General Hospital, is sharing with fans that he has been diagnosed with cancer,” Turk began.
He continued: ‘While he remains hopeful and is working closely with his medical team on a treatment plan, this is a challenging time for Tristan and his family. ‘, as reported by the Express.
The star’s spokesperson respectfully requested “privacy and understanding” as Rogers and his family face “the emotional and physical burdens that come with this diagnosis”.
“They are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and love from their friends and family. Tristan sends his love to his fans and wants them to know how much he appreciates their loyalty and encouragement over the years,” Turk added.
“This support means more to him now than ever.”
(Image: GETTY)
Heartfelt messages have poured in from the actor’s dedicated followers, with one writing: “Heartbreakingly devastating news. #TristanRogers brought #RobertScorpio into our living rooms and made us fall in love. Prayers along with positive vibes being sent his way.”
Another penned: “Sending prayers his way. We miss and adore him.”
“Definitely keeping Tristan in my prayers. The show has already lost so many veteran actors over the past few years,” a third commented.
The veteran performer is best known for playing Robert Scorpio on General Hospital, a role he created in 1980, as well as Colin on Young and Restless, Hunter on Bold and Beautiful, and Doc on Studio City – the last role securing him a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Performance by a Supporting Actor in a Digital Drama Series.
His last scene showed the character leaving town with his ex-wife, Holly Sutton. The actor has been synonymous with the role since 1980, making his latest comeback to the show just last year.
In 2018, he voiced his excitement about reprising his beloved character, portraying Robert as someone who adopts “kind of a glib approach to everything”.
“He’s a bit of a smart-mouth,” Rogers disclosed to Soap Opera Digest during that period, while discussing his character. “I’m working with a lot of different people … And I think the fans are going to like it.”
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