Anthony Geary, the eight-time Emmy-winning actor known for his iconic role as Luke Spencer on “General Hospital,” has died at the age of 78.
The show’s official Instagram account confirmed Geary’s death, writing that the “entire #GeneralHospital family is heartbroken” and praising him as a “brilliant actor” whose legacy will continue to inspire future cast members. They offered condolences to his husband Claudio Gama, family, and friends.
Gama shared that Geary passed away on Sunday in the Netherlands following complications from a scheduled operation. He described the loss as a shock, calling Geary his friend, companion, and husband for more than 30 years.
Born on May 29, 1947, in Coalville, Utah, Geary grew up in a Mormon household with three sisters. He studied acting at the University of Utah and began his career on stage before moving to television. In the 1970s, he appeared on popular shows like “All in the Family,” “The Mod Squad,” “The Partridge Family,” “Barnaby Jones,” and “The Young and the Restless.”
Geary’s career-defining role came in 1978 when he was cast as Luke Spencer. His character, a complex antihero, formed the legendary supercouple Luke and Laura with Genie Francis. Their 1981 wedding episode remains the highest-rated in soap opera history and featured a cameo by Elizabeth Taylor, a longtime fan of the show.
Over four decades, Geary earned eight Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor. Though he left the show multiple times, including a five-year break in the 1990s, he repeatedly returned, with his final exit announced in 2015. He remained a beloved figure among fans and cast members.
Geary also appeared in films such as “Johnny Got His Gun” (1971), “Sorority Kill,” and “Carpool Guy” (2005), along with several TV movies. Later in life, he lived in Amsterdam, pursued photography, and supported local arts initiatives. He married Gama in February 2019 after 24 years together.
Genie Francis paid tribute on social media, remembering Geary as “a powerhouse actor” and an “anti-hero” with a unique and passionate approach to his craft. She added that working with him was always unpredictable and thrilling, calling him “one of a kind.”
Longtime “General Hospital” executive producer Frank Valentini also expressed grief, emphasizing Geary’s lasting influence and the mark he left on the series and its cast.