‘General Hospital’ Star Tristan Rogers Dies at 79
The soap opera world is mourning the loss of Tristan Rogers, the beloved Australian actor who brought the legendary Robert Scorpio to life on General Hospital. Rogers passed away at the age of 79, his longtime manager Meryl Soodak confirmed to ABC 7 Eyewitness News on Friday, August 15.
A Defining Role on General Hospital
Rogers first appeared on the iconic daytime drama in 1980, originally signed for what was supposed to be a brief stint. But his charisma and commanding presence turned Robert Scorpio into a household name. Fans quickly embraced him, and the character became one of the most enduring figures in the soap’s history.
Soodak reflected on her client’s career, telling PEOPLE:
“He loved being Scorpio and he created that role from nothing. He was supposed to work for a day, and he ended up making it into something huge.”
She added that the role was deeply personal to him: “Portraying Robert Scorpio meant everything to Tristan. It defined his life and career.”
His Battle With Cancer
In July, Rogers publicly revealed he had been diagnosed with lung cancer, a diagnosis that shocked many because he had never been a smoker. Despite the difficult news, he continued to share updates with fans, thanking them for their unwavering support.
Soodak noted that his resilience and love for life remained intact until the very end.
From Melbourne to Hollywood
Born on June 3, 1946, in Melbourne, Australia, Rogers launched his acting career in his home country, working in both television and film. By the late 1970s, he moved to the United States to chase bigger opportunities — a leap of faith that led him to the role that would define him for more than four decades.
Though General Hospital was his most famous credit, Rogers also appeared in other soap operas, films, and voice roles, steadily building a reputation as a versatile and dedicated performer.
Remembering Tristan Rogers
Those who knew him best describe him as more than just a talented actor.
“He was a genuinely loyal, kind human being, and he loved his family,” Soodak shared.
Fans and colleagues alike have taken to social media to honor his memory, recalling not only his contribution to daytime television but also his warmth and generosity off-screen.
Tristan Rogers leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of General Hospital fans and in the history of television.
He may have entered Port Charles as a short-term character, but he stayed as a legend.