Anthony Geary is paying tribute to the life and legacy of his beloved “General Hospital” co-star and friend Tristan Rogers. The actor, best known for his role as Luke Spencer, reflected with deep emotion after learning Rogers had died on August 15 at the age of 79.
Geary Says Rogers’ Passing Left Him ‘Depressed’
Geary, 78, told TV Insider that news of Rogers’ death left him “depressed,” but filled with gratitude for their time together. “I have great memories of him and always will,” Geary said. “I’ve always thought Tristan was a good actor, a very giving actor, and fun to work with.”
He added, “Working with him was an experience that I could always rely on to be funny, exciting, challenging, and infuriating — a perfect day’s work.”
A Bond Built in Port Charles
Geary first joined “General Hospital” in 1978, with Rogers arriving two years later in 1980. Their characters, Luke Spencer and Robert Scorpio, quickly became fan favorites as their storylines intertwined in thrilling adventures.
“Tristan was an enigma — comfortable enough to create a man of mystery,” Geary recalled. “The fun thing about working with Tristan is that he was unpredictable, always good for throwing in a surprise or taking a scene in his own direction. I always liked that.”
(Walt Disney Television/Todd Wawrychuk) Though their characters faced plenty of drama, Geary said their on-screen relationship was built on a deep bond. “We didn’t challenge Luke and Robert’s relationship. It was a classic relationship with a couple ne’er-do-wells, who knew the worst about each other, but for the most part, remained friends anyway.”
Tributes From Colleagues & Family
Rogers’ longtime manager, Meryl Soodak, confirmed his death and praised his contributions to the soap. “He loved being Scorpio, and he created that role from nothing,” Soodak told ABC 7 Eyewitness News. “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.”
“General Hospital” executive producer Frank Valentini also released a statement, calling the cast and crew “heartbroken.” He added, “Tristan has captivated our fans for 45 years and Port Charles will not be the same without him (or Robert Scorpio). Tristan was a one-of-a-kind talent and will be greatly missed.”
Finola Hughes & Kimberly McCullough Share Memories
Rogers’ on-screen family also paid their respects. His TV wife, Finola Hughes, and TV daughter, Kimberly McCullough, shared emotional tributes online.
“Wish I could play one more scene with you, my friend,” Hughes wrote. “Serious about his work, but always a rebel. His own man, navigating the system, he protected me, protected Kimberly [McCullough], his character, his friends. God, he was a good one. Silly, funny, kind, serious.”
McCullough echoed the sentiment, calling Rogers a devoted costar who cared deeply for those around him.
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‘General Hospital’ Star Pays Heartbreaking Tribute to Beloved Co-Star Tristan Rogers