Eight-time Daytime Emmy winner Anthony Geary dies at 78

OTAH: Eight-time Daytime Emmy Award winner Anthony Geary, beloved by generations of television viewers for his iconic portrayal of Luke Spencer on General Hospital, passed away on December 14 at the age of 78. His death was caused by complications following a scheduled medical procedure, his husband Claudio Gama confirmed.

Born on May 29, 1947, in Coalville, Utah, Geary was raised in a Mormon household and developed an early passion for acting despite his family’s hopes that he would pursue teaching. His talent was discovered while studying at the University of Utah by actor Jack Albertson, who helped launch his professional career. Geary later appeared in more than 50 stage productions, maintaining a lifelong devotion to theatre.

After moving to Los Angeles in the late 1960s, Geary began his television career with guest roles on shows including All in the Family, Mod Squad, and The Partridge Family. He joined General Hospital in 1978, initially signing a short-term contract, but his portrayal of Luke Spencer quickly became legendary. Over a 40-year span, Geary won a record eight Daytime Emmy Awards, forming one of daytime television’s most iconic supercouples opposite Genie Francis.

Weeks before his death, Geary was seen watching Francis’ appearance on State of Mind, a moment that his husband said brought him great joy. “For more than 30 years, Tony has been my friend, my companion, my husband,” Gama said.

Anthony Geary leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of the most influential and celebrated actors in daytime television history.