‘General Hospital’ Star Passes Away at 79 as Cause of Death Confirmed

Tristan Rogers, best known to millions of fans as Robert Scorpio on General Hospital, has died at the age of 79. His manager, Meryl Soodak, confirmed to People that he passed away on Friday, August 15, after a short battle with lung cancer.

The news shocked fans and colleagues, especially since Rogers was only diagnosed in July. Despite never being a smoker, the cancer spread quickly. He died just a few weeks later.

Rogers’ health battle drew attention because of how sudden it was. He was known for living a healthy lifestyle, which made the diagnosis even more surprising. Sadly, the treatments were not enough, and his condition worsened in a matter of weeks.

His soap career began in 1980 when he was cast for what was supposed to be just a one-day role on General Hospital. But his performance as the charming spy Robert Scorpio struck a chord with viewers, and he quickly became one of the show’s most beloved characters. One of his most iconic moments was being part of the legendary 1981 Luke and Laura wedding, which remains one of the most watched episodes in daytime TV history.

Over the years, Rogers appeared in more than 1,400 episodes of General Hospital. Though he left in 1992, he returned multiple times, including in General Hospital: Night Shift. His final on-screen moments came not long before his diagnosis.

While Robert Scorpio defined his career, Rogers also found success beyond General Hospital. He had recurring roles on The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful, and even voiced Jake the kangaroo in Disney’s The Rescuers Down Under. He also earned a Daytime Emmy Award for his role in the digital drama Studio City and later picked up a nomination for The Bay.

Tributes poured in after his death. Genie Francis, who played Laura Spencer, shared her grief on social media: “My heart is heavy. Goodbye my spectacular friend. Tristan Rogers was a very bright light, as an actor and a person.”

Emma Samms, who starred opposite him as Holly Sutton, also spoke out, saying she loved working with him and that his loss was deeply felt.

General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini released a statement, saying: “The entire General Hospital family is heartbroken. Port Charles will not be the same without him or Robert Scorpio.”

Fans across the world have also expressed their sadness, posting old clips and memories of the actor’s most unforgettable scenes.

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