Anthony Geary, Iconic ‘General Hospital’ Actor, Dies at 78

Anthony Geary, the actor who brought Luke Spencer to life on “General Hospital,” has died at 78, a loss felt across the soap opera community.

Early Life

Geary was born Tony Dean Geary in Utah and grew up with a clear ambition to become an actor. He attended the University of Utah on a theater scholarship for two years before relocating to Los Angeles in the late 1960s. While in Los Angeles, he made his television debut and guest‑starred on “All in the Family.” He also appeared regularly on daytime dramas “Bright Promise” and “The Young and the Restless.”

Name and Career

In 1970, when he began his television career, Geary changed his name from Tony to Anthony, a decision he explained to the Television Academy Foundation in 2007. “I always felt that Tony was too familiar, and that Anthony had some kind of gravitas that Tony didn’t,” Geary said. The name change marked the start of a long and successful career in television.

Breakthrough on “General Hospital”

In 1978, “General Hospital” head writer and executive producer Gloria Monty approached Geary about auditioning for the role of Luke Spencer. Geary signed on to play the character for 13 weeks. At the end of that period, he was asked to extend his contract for six more months. Luke Spencer quickly became a signature character on “General Hospital,” and the role ultimately spanned 40 years.

Iconic Couple and Wedding

Geary became one half of television’s most iconic couple with Genie Francis, who portrayed Laura Webber. The 1981 wedding between Luke Spencer and Laura Webber drew 30 million viewers, making it the highest‑rated soap opera episode in American TV history.

Tribute from Genie Francis

Francis mourned her costar Monday. “He spoiled me for leading men for the rest of my life,” she wrote on X. “I am crushed, I will miss him terribly, but I was so lucky to be his partner. Somehow, somewhere, we are connected to each other because I felt him leave last night. Good night sweet prince, good night.”

Awards and Recognition

Geary won eight Daytime Emmy awards for his portrayal of Luke Spencer and was nominated nine other times. His achievements were recognized by peers and the industry throughout his career.

Death

Anthony Geary, who starred as Luke Spencer on the long‑running American soap opera “General Hospital,” has died at 78, representatives confirmed Monday. No cause of death or additional details were provided.

Key Takeaways

• Anthony Geary, born Tony Dean Geary, died at 78.
• He portrayed Luke Spencer for 40 years on “General Hospital.”
• He won eight Daytime Emmy awards and received nine additional nominations.

Anthony’s legacy as Luke Spencer endures in the annals of daytime television, and his passing marks the end of an era for fans and colleagues alike.