Tristan Rogers, Beloved Robert Scorpio of General Hospital, Passes Away at 79
Fans of daytime television were struck with grief as news emerged that Tristan Rogers, the Australian actor immortalized as Robert Scorpio on General Hospital, had died at 79. The revelation came quietly,
yet it left the soap opera world and his devoted audience reeling. Rogers’ sudden decline had been hinted at by those closest to him, but few could have anticipated the loss of someone whose charisma and talent had lit up screens for decades.
Rogers’ manager, Meryl Soodak, confirmed his passing to ABC 7 Eyewitness News on Friday, August 15. Earlier this summer, it had been disclosed that Rogers had been diagnosed with lung cancer—a cruel irony for someone who had never smoked. For Rogers, however, his work and his connection to his character had always been at the center of his life.
“Robert Scorpio wasn’t just a role for Tristan—it was a part of his soul,” Soodak told PEOPLE. “He built that character from the ground up and made it unforgettable. Beyond that, he was loyal, kind, and endlessly devoted to his family.”
Born on June 3, 1946, in Melbourne, Rogers began his acting career in Australia before moving to the United States in the late 1970s in search of bigger opportunities. His debut as Scorpio in 1980 quickly made him a fan favorite. The suave, intelligent spy became a cornerstone of General Hospital, with Rogers returning repeatedly over the years, cementing Scorpio as a timeless figure in daytime television.
Rogers’ talents extended far beyond the soap opera world. His credits include roles in films like Delirious (1991) and Night Eyes 3 (1993), along with guest appearances on The Bay, The Bold and the Beautiful, and The Young and the Restless. In the 1990s and 2000s, he also contributed voice work for animated shows and video games, including the Mortal Kombat franchise, demonstrating a versatility that few actors achieve.
Legacy
Tristan Rogers leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and a career that spanned multiple decades, mediums, and genres. More than just an actor, he was remembered as a kind, dedicated, and warm-hearted individual whose work touched countless lives. While the world mourns the passing of Robert Scorpio’s creator, Rogers’ performances continue to resonate, inspiring fans and fellow performers alike for generations to come.