Anthony Geary, the actor forever associated with Luke Spencer on General Hospital, has died at the age of 78.ABC confirmed his passing in a statement, noting that Geary died in Amsterdam due to complications following a planned surgical procedure he underwent three days earlier. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Anthony Geary, whose portrayal of Luke Spencer helped define General Hospital and daytime television,” the network said.
Geary first took on the role of Luke Spencer in 1978, a character that would become one of the most iconic in television history. Over the course of his career, he earned an extraordinary eight Daytime Emmy Awards, a rare achievement that reflected both his talent and lasting popularity.His on-screen partnership with Genie Francis, who played Laura Webber Baldwin, created one of television’s most beloved supercouples.
Their 1981 wedding episode drew more than 30 million viewers, becoming a pop-culture phenomenon that transcended daytime television. During that era, even Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor made a guest appearance as a fan of the show.Beyond General Hospital, Geary appeared on other daytime dramas, including The Young and the Restless and Bright Promise, and remained deeply committed to stage work throughout his life.
Geary played Luke on and off until 2015, with a brief return in 2017 that moved longtime fans. For generations of viewers, he was more than a soap star—he was a daily presence whose performances helped elevate the genre and leave a lasting cultural legacy.Anthony Geary will be remembered for his intensity, intelligence, and authenticity.
Rest in peace.