Tristan Rogers, best known as “General Hospital” mainstay Robert Scorpio, has died at the age of 79.
“He loved being Scorpio and he created that role from nothing,” Rogers’ manager Meryl Soodak told ABC 7 Eyewitness News on Friday, of the actor — who had recently been diagnosed with cancer.
“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.”
Frank Valentini, the show’s executive producer, told People that “the entire General Hospital family is heartbroken to hear of Tristan Rogers’ passing.”
Valentini added, “Tristan has captivated our fans for 45 years and Port Charles will not be the same without him (or Robert Scorpio). I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time. Tristan was a one-of-a-kind talent and will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace.”
Rogers began appearing on the legendary ABC soap opera in 1980, shortly after moving to the United States from Australia.
Robert Scorpio, his Port Charles character, was a “World Security Bureau” spy before becoming the district attorney and police commissioner of the beloved fictional city.
In 1981, he played a pivotal role in the memorable wedding of Luke Spencer (Anthony Geary) and Laura (Genie Francis) as the groom’s best man.
Luke and Laura’s big wedding would become known as a landmark moment in soap opera history — 30 million viewers watched as the onscreen couple tied the knot.
The episode stands as the most-watched soap opera episode in the history of United States television.
After being killed off the series in 1992, he made a triumphant return as Scorpio in 2006. He would ultimately return to the show time and again to reprise the role. In 2008, Rogers’ beloved character would reappear in “General Hospital: Night Shift,” as well.
Rogers had been diagnosed with cancer, it was revealed in July.
“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,” a spokesperson for the actor said in a statement at the time, per Soap Opera Digest.
“As they face both the emotional and physical burdens that come with this diagnosis, the family kindly asks for privacy and understanding,” the statement read.
“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. This support means more to him now than ever.”
Rogers is survived by his wife, Teresa Parkerson, whom he married in 1995, and their grown children: Sara Jane and Cale.
