Anthony Geary, the legendary Luke Spencer of ‘General Hospital’, dies at 78. Eight-time Daytime Emmy winner remembered for iconic soap marriage move to Amsterdam

The television world mourns the loss of Anthony Geary, the actor best known for his portrayal of Luke Spencer on the ABC soap opera “General Hospital”. The 78‑year‑old died on December 14, 2023, after complications from a scheduled operation three days earlier. His death was announced by his husband, Claudio Gama, in a statement to TV Insider. Gama said, “It was a shock for me and our families and our friends,” adding, “For more than 30 years, Tony has been my friend, my companion, my husband.”

Early Life and Education

Geary was born in Coalville, Utah, on May 29, 1947. He grew up in a Mormon household with his parents and three sisters. While attending the University of Utah, he was discovered by Jack Albertson of “Chico and the Man.” Albertson cast him in the touring stage production of “The Subject Was Roses,” which launched his acting career.

Early Television Career

In the 1960s, Geary moved to Los Angeles and began working in television. His early appearances included roles in “Room 222,” “The Partridge Family,” “The Mod Squad,” “All in the Family,” and “Barnaby Jones.” Despite his growing screen presence, he continued to perform in theater, appearing in more than 50 stage productions according to TV Insider.

Soap Opera Beginnings

Geary’s first soap opera role was in “Bright Promise” from 1971 to 1972. In 1973, he joined “The Young and the Restless” as the character George Curtis, a rapist. Five years later, he was hired by “General Hospital” for a 13‑week story arc that ultimately extended into a long‑term role.

General Hospital and Luke Spencer

He became a series regular, forming the iconic on‑screen couple Luke and Laura. Their 1981 fictional marriage, starring Laura Webber (Genie Francis), drew over 31 million viewers and remains the highest‑rated soap episode in American television history. Geary’s final appearance as Luke was in 2015, followed by a cameo in 2017.

Daytime Emmy Awards

Geary earned eight Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His wins came in the following years:

• 1982
• 1999
• 2000
• 2004
• 2006
• 2008
• 2012
• 2015

Later Television Work

Beyond “General Hospital,” he guest‑starred on shows such as “Roseanne,” “Port Charles,” and “General Hospital: Night Shift.” He also appeared in the 1978 street‑smart hustler role referenced in the original article, showcasing his range across genres.

Personal Life

Geary met Claudio Gama in 1995, and the couple married in 2019. In 2019, he relocated to Amsterdam, where he lived until his death. The move marked a new chapter in his life, far from the Hollywood studios that had defined his career.

Death and Announcement

Geary succumbed to complications from a scheduled operation on December 14, 2023. His passing was confirmed by TV Insider, citing the statement released by Gama. Gama also shared a video on Instagram on November 17, showing Geary watching former costars Genie Francis and Maurice Benard on Benard’s “State of Mind” podcast. The caption read, “It really made Tony happy.”

Legacy and Reflections

Geary’s legacy is cemented by his memorable portrayal of Luke Spencer and his contributions to daytime television. The actor expressed to his husband, “Those are two lovely and talented people, great friends and I miss them.” His career, spanning stage, television, and iconic soap opera moments, continues to inspire actors and fans alike.