The world of daytime television is mourning the loss of Tristan Rogers, who passed away at the age of 79 after battling lung cancer.
His manager, Meryl Soodak, confirmed the news to ABC7 News, revealing that Rogers had never been a smoker, making the disease all the more tragic.
A Career-Defining Role on General Hospital
Rogers was best known for his iconic portrayal of Robert Scorpio on General Hospital, a role he first took on in 1980.
Over the decades, Scorpio became a fan favorite, appearing in 1,461 episodes and leaving an indelible mark on the soap.
“Tristan loved being Scorpio and he created that role from nothing,” Soodak said.
“He was supposed to work a day and ended up making it into something huge. He was a genuinely loyal, kind human being, and he loved his family.”
Family Left Behind
Rogers is survived by his wife Teresa Parkerson, their children Sara Jane and Cale, and a grandchild.
His family, along with fans and colleagues, have shared heartfelt tributes across social media.
Tributes from General Hospital Family
Frank Valentini, executive producer of General Hospital, praised Rogers on the show’s official Instagram account, calling him a “one-of-a-kind talent.”
“The entire General Hospital family is heartbroken to hear of Tristan Rogers’ passing.
Tristan captivated our fans for more than 50 years and Port Charles will not be the same without him—or Robert Scorpio,” Valentini wrote.
Co-star Jon Lindstrom also shared his memories, tweeting, “#TristanRogers was one of the coolest, funniest people I ever met.
Whenever we were together, we never missed a chance to try to crack each other up.
I wish I’d had more of those chances. R.I.P. #FlightOfAngels #Scorpio @GeneralHospital #GH.”
Early Life and Career Highlights
Born on June 3, 1946, in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, Rogers built a diverse career spanning decades of television.
Besides General Hospital, he appeared on soaps such as The Young and the Restless as Colin Atkinson and The Bold and the Beautiful as Hunter Jones, P.I.
He also reprised his role in the spin-off General Hospital: Night Shift, which followed his on-screen daughter, Robin Scorpio (Kimberly McCullough).
From a One-Day Role to Soap Legend
Originally, Rogers was cast for a brief two-day role meant to “beat up the hero” Luke, unaware of the show’s popularity at the time.
His performance impressed executive producer Gloria Monty so much that his role was extended, launching him into decades of soap stardom.
“I was brought in expressly to beat up the hero and then disappear,” Rogers recalled in a 2022 interview.
“So the half day goes by and I get summoned into Gloria’s office, and she said, ‘We really like what you’re doing, would you like to stay?’”
Extensive Television and Voice Work
Rogers’ acting career extended far beyond General Hospital.
He appeared in Walker, Texas Ranger, Tales from the Crypt, The Love Boat, The Sullivans, The Agency, Studio City, and The Bay.
He also lent his voice to numerous animated productions, including The Wild Thornberrys, Batman Beyond, and Aaahh!!! Real Monsters.