Anthony Geary, an eight-time Daytime Emmy winner known for his quintessential role as Luke Spencer on General Hospital, has tragically passed away at the age of 78 on December 14. His death resulted from complications following a scheduled operation just three days prior. Geary’s husband, Claudio Gama, shared a touching moment captured weeks before Geary’s passing, where he enjoyed watching his former co-star Genie Francis on Maurice Benard’s State of Mind podcast, expressing how much he missed his friends.
Born on May 29, 1947, in Coalville, Utah, Geary was raised in a Mormon family and was the youngest of four siblings. Though his mother hoped he would become a teacher, Geary discovered his passion for acting early on, shaping his professional journey profoundly. He attended the University of Utah, where his talent caught the eye of actor Jack Albertson, leading to a pivotal casting opportunity that launched his career in theater and television.
Geary moved to Los Angeles in the late 1960s and began featuring in beloved television series like The Partridge Family and All in the Family before making his mark in soap operas. His breakthrough came in 1978 when he was cast as Luke Spencer on General Hospital, a role that would revolutionize daytime television. His iconic partnership with Genie Francis as Laura Webber captivated audiences, and their storyline in 1980 not only elevated the show’s ratings but also made them pop culture icons.
The wedding of Luke and Laura in 1981 drew an astonishing 30 million viewers, and the pair even featured with Elizabeth Taylor, an avid fan of the show, further solidifying their legendary status in television history. Throughout his career, Geary continued to portray Luke, even stepping into other roles, including Bill Eckert, while maintaining a significant presence on the soap.
Geary’s last acting moment was a scene shot just before his hospitalization, showcasing his dedication even in his final days. Outside of General Hospital, he appeared in various films and television projects, enriching his already extensive career.
Survived by Gama and their beloved cat Max, Geary’s loss is felt deeply by those who knew him and by his fans. Gama expressed the shock of losing a companion of over 30 years, emphasizing the deep connection they shared. Following his retirement in 2015, Geary embraced life in Amsterdam, a city he loved and called home.
Geary’s remarkable contributions to daytime television have left an enduring legacy. While he will always be celebrated as Luke Spencer, his influence as a fearless performer ensures that he will not be forgotten, reflecting his passion and dedication to his craft that inspired many throughout the years.