For close to sixty years, Tristan Rogers has maintained a consistent and enduring career in Hollywood, with nearly 60 credits across film and television. Though he may not be a household name everywhere, he’s a familiar face to soap opera fans. Rogers is best known for his long-running role as Robert Scorpio on ABC’s General Hospital, appearing in over 1,400 episodes.
Related: Devastating Cause of Death Revealed For Beloved ABC Star
His soap opera legacy continued with roles on General Hospital: Night Shift and nearly 200 episodes of The Bold and the Beautiful. Beyond live-action work, Rogers has also showcased his voice acting skills in animated series such as Sky Commanders, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, and The Wild Thornberrys.
Last month, representatives of Mr. Rogers revealed that the actor had been diagnosed with cancer. They did not reveal what kind of cancer it was, but said the actor and his family were facing a “challenging time.”
The statement on behalf of the Australian actor’s family asked “for privacy and understanding” as they “face both the emotional and physical burdens that come with this diagnosis.
The statement said that Rogers’ family is “deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and love from their friends and family.” Additional updates will be shared by the actors’ loved ones.
Related: ABC Star Reveals Devastating Terminal Diagnosis
Sadly, the update on Mr. Rogers’ health is not one that fans were hoping to hear. On Friday, August 15, Mr. Rogers died at the age of 79.
Mr. Rogers’ death was confirmed by his manager, Meryl Soodak, in a statement to ABC7. She said that the actor had died after suffering from lung cancer. She also noted that the actor had never been a smoker.
The actor’s role on “General Hospital” “meant everything to him,” his manager said. “He loved being Scorpio and he created that role from nothing. He was supposed to work a day and he ended up making it into something huge. He was just a genuinely loyal, kind human being and he loved his family.”
Related: Beloved Disney/ABC Actor Christian Juttner Passes Away at 60
Shortly after news of Rogers’ passing was made public, General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini shared a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter).
The entire @GeneralHospital family is heartbroken to hear of Tristan Rogers’ passing. Tristan has captivated our fans for more than 50 years and Port Charles will not be the same without him (or Robert Scorpio). (1/2) #GH
I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time. Tristan was a one-of-a-kind talent and will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace. (2/2) #GH
Related: Disney Star Would “Love” to Return For Beloved Show Reboot
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 200,000 people are diagnosed with lung cancer each year. Of those diagnosed, 10% to 20% have never smoked, accounting for between 20,000 and 40,000 cases.
Mr. Rogers continued to pursue his passion for acting, even after his diagnosis. He made a surprise appearance on General Hospital in July, just days after his cancer diagnosis was announced.
Tristan Rogers is survived by his wife, Teresa Parkerson, their two children, and a grandchild.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Tristan Rogers. He will continue to live on in his work and will be fondly remembered by fans around the world.
The post ABC Star Dead Weeks After Revealing Cancer Diagnosis appeared first on Inside the Magic.
