“Get Well Soon” — General Hospital fans pour in their hearts as Tristan Rogers reveals cancer diagnosis

Tristan Rogers, best known for his long-running role as Robert Scorpio on ABC’s General Hospital, has been diagnosed with cancer at the age of 79. The news was confirmed in a public statement by his representative, Anthony Turk, on July 17, 2025. The type of cancer has not been disclosed. The statement shared that Rogers is working closely with his medical team and remains hopeful as he begins the next steps in his care.

Fans quickly responded to the news with messages of support and well-wishes across social media. On the public Facebook group General Hospital Fans – Official, fan Barbara Payne shared a post, ‘Prayers for Tristan Rogers,’ and several users commented, wishing him strength and a smooth recovery.

“Prayers coming your way! Get well soon....I've always been a fan of yours!” a fan named Camille Gattuso wrote.

Many shared personal memories of meeting Rogers, expressing admiration and emotional connection to his role as Robert Scorpio.

Some fans showed concern for his treatment and wished him safe passage during the recovery process.

Others showed enthusiasm about his return to General Hospital, reiterating their continuing support and devotion.

Tristan Rogers’ journey on General Hospital

Tristan Rogers first appeared on General Hospital as Robert Scorpio on December 2, 1980. He was introduced in the "Ice Princess" plot, when he joined forces with Luke and Laura to thwart the Cassadine family's plot to take over the world. He also portrayed Port Charles' police commissioner from 1983 to 1985, and later from 1988 to 1992.

Robert married Holly Sutton in 1983 after believing his friend Luke Spencer had died. Holly later miscarried Luke’s child, and she and Robert fell in love. He was at odds with his brother, Mac Scorpio, but they later made peace. Robert married Anna Devane, and they had a child, Robin. He was presumed dead in 1992 after an explosion in South America.

He returned in 1995 as a spirit to comfort Robin, who was grieving her boyfriend’s death. In 2006, Robert returned alive during a deadly virus outbreak. He reconnected with Robin and later appeared on General Hospital: Night Shift in 2008, where he was diagnosed with colon cancer.

Between 2012 and 2014, Robert returned multiple times. He investigated Duke Lavery’s return and uncovered Cesar Faison’s identity. He discovered Robin alive but was placed in a coma before he could reveal the truth. He subsequently assisted Anna in rescuing Robin from Cassadine Island and staged Faison's death with her.

 

Between 2015 and 2024, Robert appeared periodically. He attended family events, helped on international missions, and acted as District Attorney. In 2024, his daughter Sasha Gilmore with Holly Sutton was revealed. Robert departed Port Charles on November 12, 2024, in his last appearance on the show.

About Tristan Rogers

Tristan Rogers is an Australian actor who is most noted for playing Robert Scorpio on General Hospital since 1980. He also appeared on General Hospital: Night Shift and won a Daytime Emmy for the role in the digital soap Studio City. 

Away from soaps, Rogers provided voice work for characters in the animated television series The Real Adventures of Jonny Quest and guested on The Young and the Restless as Colin Atkinson. His television career is both American and Australian.

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