The entertainment industry is in mourning following reports of the death of acclaimed actor Anthony Geary, the legendary performer best known for his portrayal of Luke Spencer on the long-running daytime drama General Hospital. Geary was reported to have passed away on December 14, 2025, at the age of 78, while in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where he had been living in retirement.
According to a statement attributed to his husband, Claudio Gama, Geary’s passing followed complications stemming from a scheduled surgical procedure performed several days earlier. The news has come as a profound shock to family members, close friends, colleagues, and the millions of fans who followed his groundbreaking career for decades. While detailed medical information was not publicly disclosed, the reported circumstances surrounding his death have underscored the inherent risks that can accompany medical procedures later in life.
Since retiring from acting in 2015, Geary had largely stepped away from public life, choosing instead to reside quietly in the Netherlands. Those close to him have said he found peace in travel, art, and cultural pursuits, embracing a slower, more private lifestyle after years in the spotlight. News of his reported passing has resonated deeply within the television community, particularly among those who worked alongside him during the height of his career.
Born on May 29, 1947, Anthony Geary carved out a career that would permanently reshape daytime television. He joined General Hospital in 1978, introducing viewers to Luke Spencer, a complex and controversial character who quickly evolved into one of the most iconic figures in soap opera history. What began as an unconventional role soon became a cultural force, largely due to Luke’s unforgettable on-screen romance with Laura Webber, portrayed by Genie Francis.
The 1981 wedding of Luke and Laura remains one of the most significant moments in television history, reportedly drawing nearly 30 million viewers and earning recognition as the highest-rated event in daytime soap operas. The storyline transcended the genre, elevating General Hospital to mainstream popularity and cementing Geary’s status as a household name.
Throughout his career, Geary earned widespread critical acclaim for his fearless performances and emotional range. He won a record eight Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, a distinction that reflected both his talent and his lasting influence on the medium. Colleagues often described him as intense, deeply committed, and uncompromising in his pursuit of authentic storytelling.
Following reports of his death, tributes have poured in from former co-stars and industry figures. Genie Francis remembered Geary as a “powerhouse” whose presence set an extraordinary standard for acting partners, while General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini praised his enduring influence on generations of performers who followed in his footsteps.
Anthony Geary’s reported passing marks the end of an era for daytime television. More than just an actor, he was a trailblazer whose work challenged conventions and captivated audiences worldwide. His legacy—defined by unforgettable performances, cultural impact, and decades of storytelling—continues to live on through the character of Luke Spencer and the millions of viewers he touched throughout his career.