Anthony Geary, Iconic Soap Opera Star, Passes Away at 78

Anthony Geary, celebrated for his role as Luke Spencer on “General Hospital,” has passed away at the age of 78 following complications from surgery, as reported by TV Insider.

Geary began his iconic role in 1978, significantly shaping daytime television during what many fans view as its peak era. “The entire General Hospital family is heartbroken,” said Frank Valentini, the show’s executive producer. He acknowledged Geary’s immeasurable impact on the series and the legacy he leaves behind.

“Tony is a remarkable actor and has set a high bar for all of us,” Valentini continued. “The legacy of Luke Spencer will live on through the generations of cast members who came after him. Our deepest condolences go out to his husband Claudio, as well as his family and friends. May he rest in peace.”

Geary’s character was at the heart of some unforgettable moments in soap history, particularly the 1981 wedding episode involving Luke and Laura, played by Jeannie Francis, which drew around 30 million viewers—a record for soap operas.

Although Geary departed the series in 2015, he returned from retirement to make his final appearance in 2017.

In earlier years, Geary also guest-starred in shows like “All in the Family,” “The Streets of San Francisco,” and “The Young and the Restless.” Throughout his career, he was nominated for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series 16 times, triumphing eight times.