Actor Tyler Christopher passes away at 50

Tyler Christopher, best known for his role in the hit series 'General Hospital', has passed away at age 50.
The actor's co-star Maurice Benardannounced the news on his Instagram handle, writing, "Tyler passed away this morning following a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment. Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting.

Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him."
Benard noted that "Tyler was an advocate for better mental health and substance use treatment who openly spoke about his struggles with bipolar depression and alcohol."

Christopher was born on November 11, 1972, in Joliet, Illinois, portrayed

Nikolas Cassadine

on the medical soap opera from 1996 to 2016, as well as Connor Bishop from 2004 to 2005.
In 2016, he won the Daytime Emmy for his performance as Nikolas, and previously earned four nominations, one of which was a special fan award for an irresistible combination that he shared with Natalia Livingston. Christopher also worked on "Days of Our Lives" between 2001 and 2019, scoring a Daytime Emmy nomination for outstanding lead actor in a drama series for his performance as Stefan DiMera.

After news of his demise broke, his 'General Hospital' co-stars took to their handles to remember the star and offer tribute. Executive Producer, Frank Valentini led the tribute with a tweet that read, "I am heartbroken over the news of Tyler Christopher’s passing. He was kind, an incredible actor and a dear friend, who was beloved by our #GH family and fans of Nikolas Cassadine. On behalf of everyone at @GeneralHospital, our heartfelt sympathies go out to his loved ones during this difficult time."
Kin Shriner said, "RIP Tyler so sad he was a huge talent and I had the pleasure of working with him a few months ago as well as the fun times."
"Oh man. #TylerChristopher Flight of Angels. #RIP," said actor Jon Lindstrom.
"I am once again devastated by yet another loss of a wonderful colleague and beautiful human being. Deepest condolences to the family, friends and fans of #TylerChristopher," wrote actress Kathleen Gati.

He was married to 'Desperate Housewives' star Eva Longoria from 2002 to 2004 and former ESPN reporter Brienne Pedigo from 2008 to 2021. They share two children- Greysun James Christopher and Boheme Christopher.
Along with 'General Hospital' and 'Days of Our Lives', Christopher also worked on the Family drama series 'The Lying Game' and guested on such series as 'The Twilight Zone', 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation', 'Family Law', 'Charmed', 'Angel' and 'The Pretender'.
He also starred in several TV disaster movies, including 'Ice Storm', '20.0 Megaquake' and 'Super Volcano'.
News of Tyler's demise comes just days after the entertainment industry was reeling in the shock of Matthew Perry's sudden demise at his home. The actor was found dead in his hot tub on Saturday. His autopsy report was 'deferred', as test results are still awaited.