Tristan Rogers cause of death: Lung cancer claims life of ‘General Hospital’ legend at 79

Tristan Rogers, the beloved actor who brought the suave secret agent Robert Scorpio to life on General Hospital, has died at the age of 79 after a battle with lung cancer. ABC 7 Eyewitness News said that his longtime manager, Meryl Soodak, confirmed that Rogers passed away peacefully on Friday morning, noting that he had never been a smoker.

In July 2025, Rogers revealed to fans that he had been diagnosed with cancer, thanking them for decades of unwavering support. Despite his illness, he remained deeply connected to the General Hospital community and his loyal fan base.

From a One-Day Role to a Soap Opera Icon

Rogers joined General Hospital in 1980, with the role of Robert Scorpio originally intended for just one day. His magnetic presence transformed the character into a fan-favorite, earning him a legacy that spanned over 45 years of intermittent appearances.

Often dubbed “Port Charles’ answer to James Bond,” Rogers shared screen space with stars like Demi Moore, Emma Samms, and Finola Hughes during his initial 12-year run.

Career Beyond General Hospital

Before breaking into American television, the Australian-born actor worked on hit shows such as Bellbird, Number 96, and The Box.

In the US, he starred in The Young and the Restless as Colin Atkinson, appeared in The Bold and the Beautiful, and won a Daytime Emmy for the web drama Studio City. His film credits include voicing the kangaroo mouse in Disney’s The Rescuers Down Under (1990) and roles in Showtime’s Fast Track and Babylon 5.

Rogers is survived by his wife, Teresa Parkerson, two children, and a grandchild.