The tragic murder of “General Hospital” star Johnny Wactor is the latest in a series of grim events affecting the long-running soap opera’s cast. Wactor, known for his role as Brando Corbin from 2020 to 2022, was shot and killed on May 25 after confronting three individuals attempting to steal his car’s catalytic converter in downtown Los Angeles. The coroner’s office confirmed that his death was a homicide caused by a gunshot wound to the chest. The Los Angeles Police Department has yet to identify any suspects.
Wactor’s murder joins a list of other tragic incidents involving “General Hospital” cast members:
Billy Miller
Billy Miller, who portrayed Jason Morgan/Drew Cain for six years, died by suicide in September 2023 at 43. The Travis County Medical Examiner in Austin, Texas, determined the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the head. Miller had left multiple letters indicating suicidal intent and was found with trace amounts of several substances in his system. His representative noted that Miller had been struggling with manic depression.
Robyn Bernard
Robyn Bernard, known for her role as Terry Brock from 1984 to 1990, was found dead in a field in San Jacinto, California, in March 2023. The cause of her death has not yet been disclosed by the Riverside County Coroner’s Office.
Tyler Christopher
Tyler Christopher, who played Nikolas Cassadine from 1996 to 2016, died of positional asphyxia due to acute alcohol intoxication on October 31, 2023. The San Diego Medical Examiner ruled his death an accident, noting that coronary artery disease also contributed. Christopher’s passing shocked many, and his representative expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a gifted actor and friend.
Harrison Wagner
Harrison Wagner, son of “General Hospital” actors Jack and Kristina Wagner, died from fentanyl and alprazolam intoxication on June 6, 2022. His death was ruled an accident. Harrison’s parents established a scholarship fund in his name to help others struggling with addiction, describing him as a bright young man whose smile lit up any room.
Sonya Eddy
Sonya Eddy, who played nurse Epiphany Johnson for 16 years, died on December 19, 2022, due to complications from a non-emergency surgery. Her death left a void in the “General Hospital” family, and she was remembered for her compassionate character and beloved presence on the show.
These tragedies contribute to a perception among some fans that “General Hospital” is “jinxed,” casting a shadow over the series despite its enduring popularity. The unsolved murder of Johnny Wactor adds another sorrowful chapter to this history, as his family and colleagues mourn his untimely death.