Tristan Rogers, Iconic General Hospital Actor, Passes Away at 79

Strategic Insights -

Tristan Rogers, renowned for his portrayal of Robert Scorpio on ABC's long-running daytime soap opera General Hospital, has died after a battle with lung cancer. The actor, who was never a smoker, has left behind a legacy that spanned over 45 years on the show. Born on June 3, 1946, in Melbourne, Australia, Rogers began his acting career in Australian television and later transitioned to the United States, where he took on iconic roles in soap operas.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tristan Rogers passed away at the age of 79 after a battle with lung cancer, his longtime manager, Meryl Soodak, confirmed.
  • Rogers was best known for his portrayal of Robert Scorpio on ABC's General Hospital, a role he held for over 45 years.
  • The actor began his career in Australian television, featuring in series such as The Link Men (1970), Number 96 (1974), and The Box (1975).
  • Rogers was married to Teresa Parkerson since 1995 and previously to Barbara Meale from 1974 to 1984.
  • In July 2025, Rogers' representatives announced that he had been diagnosed with lung cancer.
  • Rogers won a Daytime Emmy Award in 2020 for his supporting role in the digital drama series Studio City.

Statistics:

  • Rogers was 79 years old at the time of his passing.
  • He portrayed Robert Scorpio on General Hospital for over 45 years.
  • Rogers won a Daytime Emmy Award in 2020 for his supporting role in Studio City.
  • The actor had two children and a grandchild, whom he is survived by.
  • Rogers was married twice, first to Barbara Meale from 1974 to 1984 and then to Teresa Parkerson since 1995.

Sources:

  • ABC News - "Tristan Rogers, Iconic General Hospital Actor, Dies at 79"
  • Deadline - "Tristan Rogers' Family Asks for Privacy and Understanding as He Battles Lung Cancer"