Anthony Geary, Icon of General Hospital, Passes Away at 78

Legendary actor Anthony Geary, best known for his iconic role as Luke Spencer on the long-running soap opera General Hospital, has died at the age of 78. Geary passed away on December 14, 2023, following complications from surgery he underwent just three days prior. The specific details surrounding the surgery have not been disclosed.

In a heartfelt statement to PEOPLE, Geary’s husband, Claudio Gama, expressed his shock at the loss, saying, “It was a shock for me and our families and our friends. For more than 30 years, Tony has been my friend, my companion, my husband.”

Tributes from colleagues and fans have flooded in, showcasing the profound impact Geary had on those around him and the wider entertainment community. Frank Valentini, executive producer of General Hospital, stated that the “entire General Hospital family is heartbroken” over Geary’s passing.

Heartfelt Remembrances from Co-Stars

Geary’s co-stars have shared emotional reflections on his life and career. Genie Francis, who played Laura Collins, Geary’s on-screen wife, took to social media to honor him. In a touching post on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, “[Geary] was a powerhouse as an actor. Shoulder to shoulder with the greats. No star burned brighter than Tony Geary. He was one of a kind.”

Another former co-star, Kin Shriner, fondly recalled their friendship, saying, “Tony came on General Hospital and created Luke Spencer in one scene. We became instant friends and always have been.” He elaborated on their shared experiences both on and off screen, stating, “I am going to miss him more than anyone could know.”

Actor John Stamos, who made his television debut on General Hospital, also remembered Geary poignantly. In an Instagram post, he reflected on how he would stay after filming just to watch Geary perform, remarking, “Watching Tony was like watching someone rewrite the rules in real time. He changed the face of daytime television. And in very real ways, he changed my life.”

Other notable figures from the industry, including Rick Springfield and Jonathan Jackson, have also shared tributes, illustrating the deep respect and admiration Geary commanded throughout his career.

Geary’s portrayal of Luke Spencer significantly shaped the landscape of daytime television, earning him numerous awards and a devoted fan base over his nearly four-decade run on the show, from 1978 to 2015. His legacy continues to resonate with audiences and colleagues alike, marking him as a transformative figure in the entertainment world.

As the news of his passing reverberates through the industry, the tributes serve as a reminder of Geary’s extraordinary talent and the indelible mark he left on General Hospital and its viewers.