Bobby Bank/Getty Tristan Rogers made a surprise appearance as his character Agent Robert Scorpio in aGeneral Hospitalepisode that aired on July 17 That was also the same day that his agent announced the actor's cancer diagnosis, saying, "he remains hopeful and is working closely with his medical team on a treatment plan" Rogers initially starred on the daytime drama from 1980-1992 and made several guest appearances before fully reprising his role on the show again from 2018-2024 Tristan Rogers announced hiscancer diagnosison the same day he made a special appearance onGeneral Hospital. The 79-year-old actor reportedly reprised his role as Agent Robert Scorpio in aGeneral Hospitalepisode that aired on July 17 — the same day that he shared the news about his cancer and treatments, according toSoap Opera Digest. Rogers, whose latest stint inGeneral Hospitalran from 2018- 2024, was last seen on the daytime drama leaving Port Charles — where the show is set — with ex-wife Holly Sutton (played by actress Emma Samms) to find a way to pay off their debts in an episode that aired in November 2024, per the outlet. The actor then surprised viewers after several months away from the screen, as he returned to greet his character's daughter Sasha Gilmore (played by Sofia Mattsson), her newborn baby and Jason Morgan (played by Steve Burton) at his new home during the July 17 episode. Christine Bartolucci/DISNEY via Getty "Hello, luv," he greeted the characters onscreen as he opened the door to his home, perSoap Opera Digest. Mattsson, as Gilmore, responded, " Hi dad, it's so good to see you. And this perfect little girl is your granddaughter, Daisy." Rogers initially starred inGeneral Hospitalas Scorpio from 1980 to 1992, when his character was killed off. However, in true soap opera fashion, Scorpio turned up alive in 2006 and made several appearances on the show before officially returning from 2018 to 2024. The daytime television star's return comes after his representative, Anthony Turk, shared the news with fans about Rogers' cancer diagnosis in a press release on Thursday, July 17, according toDeadlineandTVLine. "While he remains hopeful and is working closely with his medical team on a treatment plan, this is a challenging time for Tristan and his family," the statement began. "As they face both the emotional and physical burdens that come with this diagnosis, the family kindly asks for privacy and understanding. They are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and love from their friends and family." "Tristan sends his love to his fans and wants them to know how much he appreciates their loyalty and encouragement over the years," the statement continued. "This support means more to him now than ever." Christine Bartolucci/DISNEY via Getty Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE's free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The representative added that further details would be provided at the discretion of Rogers' family. It is unclear how Rogers' cancer diagnosis will affect his latest appearance onGeneral Hospital,and if his character will continue on the series. Though, he has been loyal to the show for several decades, telling PEOPLE in in 2023 forthe show's 60th anniversary: "I've seen this show at its best and at something less than that." In addition toGeneral Hospital,Rogers also had recurring roles onThe Bay, Studio Cityand The Young and the Restless. Read the original article onPeople
