In heartbreaking news shaking the entertainment world, Anthony Geary death has been confirmed at age 78, marking the end of an era for General Hospital fans and daytime television. The eight-time Daytime Emmy winner, forever etched in hearts as the charismatic Luke Spencer, passed away on December 14, 2025, due to surgery complications in Amsterdam, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances in the soap opera world.
The sudden loss stunned fans and colleagues alike. Geary, who retired to the Netherlands years ago, underwent a planned operation just days before complications arose. His husband, Claudio Gama, shared the devastating update, stating it was “a shock for me and our families and our friends.” Just weeks prior, Gama posted a touching video of Geary joyfully watching his longtime co-star Genie Francis on a podcast, noting how it made him happy and that he missed his friends.
Born May 29, 1947, in Coalville, Utah, Geary grew up in a Mormon family and discovered his passion for acting early. A theater scholarship to the University of Utah led to a breakthrough when actor Jack Albertson cast him in a touring production, propelling him to Los Angeles. His early career featured guest spots on classics like All in the Family, Room 222, and The Partridge Family.
But it was in 1978 when Geary joined General Hospital as Luke Spencer—originally a short-term role—that everything changed. Paired with Genie Francis as Laura Webber, their chemistry ignited a cultural phenomenon. The controversial storyline evolved into one of daytime’s greatest supercouples, culminating in the iconic 1981 wedding episode watched by 30 million viewers—the highest-rated soap hour ever. Elizabeth Taylor even guest-starred as a fan favorite villainess.
Geary’s nuanced portrayal earned him a record eight Daytime Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actor, more than any other performer in the category. He left the show multiple times but always returned, amassing nearly 2,000 episodes over four decades. His final full-time exit came in 2015, followed by a cameo in 2017. The character of Luke was written off-screen in 2022.
Tributes poured in immediately from the General Hospital family and beyond. Executive producer Frank Valentini called the cast and crew “heartbroken,” while the Daytime Emmys organization extended condolences for the actor who dominated their lead actor category. Co-stars like Genie Francis expressed profound grief, with many highlighting how Geary “spoiled” them with his talent.
For U.S. audiences, Geary’s impact transcended soap operas. Luke and Laura’s adventures defined 1980s pop culture, gracing magazine covers and inspiring countless stories of redemption and romance. His fearless performances tackled complex themes, influencing generations of actors and viewers who grew up tuning in daily. In an era of streaming dominance, his work reminds us of daytime TV’s golden age and its power to unite families around the screen.
Even in retirement, Geary lived vibrantly in Amsterdam with Gama, whom he married in 2019, and their cat. His final acting credit came just before hospitalization—a scene with former co-star Anders Hove—closing a remarkable career on his terms.
The outpouring on social media reflects deep mourning, with fans sharing memories of Luke’s adventures and Geary’s charm. As the industry reflects, one thing is clear: Anthony Geary’s bold, brilliant work elevated soaps to art, ensuring Luke Spencer—and the man who brought him to life—will never be forgotten.
This Anthony Geary death at 78 leaves a void in the General Hospital legacy, but his groundbreaking contributions to the soap opera world and daytime Emmy history will endure, inspiring future storytellers for years to come.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749x0:751x2)/anthony-geary-prebit-tout-031524-6ab7c3c10e9e49a999c43f9488ac8c65.jpg "Shocking: 'General Hospital' Icon Anthony Geary, Legendary Luke Spencer Actor, Dies At 78 Amid Surgery Complications 1")
By Mark Smith
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