Tristan Rogers, known for his iconic role as Robert Scorpio on ABC’s “General Hospital,” has died at the age of 79, less than a month after making a special appearance on the show.

“The entire ‘General Hospital’ family is heartbroken to hear of Tristan Rogers' passing,” said executive producer Frank Valentini. “Tristan captivated our fans for 45 years, and Port Charles will not be the same without him or Robert Scorpio.”

Born in Melbourne, Australia, Rogers began his career in his early twenties as a drummer in a rock band. After the band disbanded, he turned to commercial work, modeling, and eventually acting. He moved to Los Angeles to pursue Hollywood roles and landed a two-day part on “General Hospital” in 1980. His character, initially called “CK8,” was later named Robert Scorpio, becoming a long-running fixture on the show.

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Scorpio’s on-again, off-again romance with Holly Sutton, played by Emma Samms, and storylines with spy Anna Devane, played by Finola Hughes, remained fan favorites. Scorpio and Devane shared a daughter, Robin (Kimberly McCullough). In Rogers’ final episode in July, it was revealed his character was battling lung cancer.

Rogers’ other acting credits include “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “The Young & the Restless,” and “Studio City,” which earned him a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Digital Drama Series.

He is survived by his wife, Teresa Parkerson, a daughter, and a son.

Source: Agency