Tyler Christopher, the renowned actor who won a Daytime Emmy and was best known for playing Nikolas Cassadine on the legendary ABC soap opera “General Hospital,” passed away at the age of 50.
The late actor’s representative verified the information to ABC News.
In 1996, Christopher created Nikolas Cassadine. Over the course of 20 years, he played the role in approximately 1,200 episodes. In 2016, he made his last appearance in the show, the same year he won the Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.
He additionally had appearances in one-off episodes of other well-known programs, such as “CSI,” “Charmed,” and “Angel.” He appeared on “The Lying Game” on a recurring basis and on “Days of Our Lives” as a series regular in the 2010s.
Christopher had two children with his ex-wife and former ESPN reporter Brienne Pedigo, whom he wed from 2008 to 2021. He had previously been married to “Desperate Housewives” star Eva Longoria from 2002 to 2004.
The actor’s death this week has left Frank Valentini, the executive producer of “General Hospital,” in tremendous sorrow. He shared his comment with ABC News, stating, “I am heartbroken over the news of Tyler Christopher’s passing.” He was adored by the Nikolas Cassadine fans as well as our GH family. He was also a wonderful friend and actor. We at General Hospital send our sincere condolences to his loved ones during this trying time on behalf of all of us.”
Co-star of Christopher on “General Hospital,” Maurice Benard, paid tribute to his close buddy Tyler on Instagram on Tuesday, saying, “He was a very gifted person who loved making his devoted fans happy with his acting. Tyler lit up the screen in every scene he performed.” To everyone who knew him, Tyler was a fantastic friend and kind spirit.”