• Anthony Geary, iconic actor from 'General Hospital,' has died at 78.
• Geary was renowned for his role as Luke Spencer, a character that defined daytime television.
• The actor passed away in Amsterdam following complications from surgery.
• His portrayal made him a pop culture icon, highlighted by the record-breaking wedding of Luke and Laura.
• Geary's career spanned over 40 years, earning him eight Daytime Emmy awards.

Anthony Geary, who rose to fame in the 1970s and '80s as half the daytime TV super couple Luke and Laura on "General Hospital," has died at the age of 78. He passed away in Amsterdam due to complications from a surgical procedure performed three days prior to his death. ABC expressed their sorrow, stating, "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Anthony Geary, whose portrayal of Luke Spencer helped define General Hospital and daytime television," according to SFGate, CBS News, and NPR.

The "General Hospital" family expressed their grief, with executive producer Frank Valentini stating, "The entire 'General Hospital' family is heartbroken over the news of Tony Geary's passing." He emphasized Geary's legacy as an extraordinary actor, stating, "Tony was a brilliant actor and set the bar that we continue to strive for," according to SFGate, CBS News, and NPR.

Geary's portrayal of Luke Spencer, a complex character originally introduced as an anti-hero, resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. Over his 40-year career, he won eight Daytime Emmy awards for this role alone, and his storyline with Genie Francis's Laura Webber Baldwin captured the public's imagination, particularly during their 1981 wedding that drew a staggering 30 million viewers. "He was a powerhouse as an actor. Shoulder to shoulder with the greats," Francis remarked, highlighting Geary's unique talent, according to SFGate, CBS News, and NPR.