Close-up of a lighted candle
Close-up of a lighted candle David Tomaseti/Unsplash

Tristan Rogers, the Australian actor who became a soap icon as Robert Scorpio on General Hospital, has died aged 79. His manager, Meryl Soodak, confirmed he passed away on Friday, 15 August, after a brief battle with lung cancer.

Rogers was diagnosed in July, only weeks before his death, and despite never being a smoker, the disease progressed rapidly. The news has shocked fans and colleagues who admired his decades-long career on daytime television.

Tristan Rogers' Cancer Diagnosis and Battle

Rogers' illness was first disclosed in mid-July 2025 when representatives revealed he was undergoing treatment, according to People. Known for his healthy lifestyle, the revelation that he had developed lung cancer despite being a lifelong non-smoker drew widespread attention. Within a month, his condition worsened and he died on Friday.

From One-Day Appearance to Soap Opera Icon

Rogers joined General Hospital in 1980, initially cast for what was meant to be a single-day role. His portrayal of dashing spy Robert Scorpio immediately resonated with viewers, transforming the character into a central figure in some of the show's most memorable storylines. Among them was the legendary 1981 wedding of Luke and Laura, one of the most watched episodes in daytime television history.

Over more than four decades, Rogers appeared in over 1,400 episodes. Although written out in 1992, he returned several times, including in General Hospital: Night Shift. His final on-screen appearances came shortly before his diagnosis, closing a chapter in soap history.

A Career Beyond General Hospital

While Robert Scorpio defined his career, Rogers also built a diverse résumé across American and international television. He held recurring roles in The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful, according to Fox News. He also lent his voice to younger audiences as Jake the kangaroo in Disney's The Rescuers Down Under.

His work earned industry recognition. Rogers won a Daytime Emmy Award for his role in the digital drama Studio City and later received another nomination for his performance in The Bay. These accolades cemented his legacy as more than just a soap star.

Tributes from Cast and Producers

News of Rogers' death sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans. Genie Francis, who played Laura Spencer, wrote on social media: 'My heart is heavy. Goodbye my spectacular friend. Tristan Rogers was a very bright light, as an actor and a person.'

Emma Samms, who starred opposite him as Holly Sutton, said she loved working with him and that his loss was deeply felt.

General Hospital Executive Producer Frank Valentini added: 'The entire General Hospital family is heartbroken. Port Charles will not be the same without him or Robert Scorpio.' Fans echoed their grief online, sharing video clips and fond memories of his most iconic moments.

Personal Life and Family

Away from the spotlight, Rogers valued his family life. He married Teresa Parkerson in 1995, and together they raised two children, Sara Jane (born in 1992) and Cale (born in 1996). He was also a grandfather. His family have asked for privacy as they mourn his passing.

Writer's pick