Anthony Geary Dies at 78: Legendary General

December 15, 2025  Anthony Geary, the eight-time Emmy-winning actor who defined an entire generation of television viewers as Luke Spencer on General Hospital, has died at the age of 78.

Geary passed away on December 14, 2025, following complications from a planned surgical procedure. His husband, Claudio Gama, confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement: “Tony was my best friend, my partner, my husband for over 30 years. This loss is unimaginable for our families and the millions who loved him.”

From Utah to Daytime Television Icon

Born Tony Dean Geary on May 29, 1947, in Coalville, Utah, Anthony Geary originally joined General Hospital in 1978 for a short 13-week role. That role became one of the most famous characters in soap-opera history. His on-screen romance with Genie Francis as Laura Webber created the legendary “Luke and Laura” supercouple. Their 1981 wedding episode drew 30 million viewers – still the highest-rated moment in daytime television history.

Geary won a record eight Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor, more than any other performer in that category. He also briefly played Luke’s cousin Bill Eckert and made several memorable returns to the show until his final retirement in 2015, with one brief appearance in 2017.

After leaving Hollywood, Geary lived quietly in Amsterdam with his husband and their cat Max, far from the spotlight he once commanded.

Worldwide Tributes for a Television Legend

Within hours of the announcement, fans and fellow actors from around the world shared memories of the man they called Tony Geary. Genie Francis posted a recent photo of Geary smiling during one of her podcast episodes, writing: “He was so happy that day. I’ll carry that smile forever.”

Anthony Geary’s portrayal of Luke Spencer changed daytime television forever. His bold choices and undeniable charisma made him a global icon whose influence reached far beyond the United States.