Ron Hale,General HospitalStar, Dies at 78

Mar. 15, 2025

Ron Hale.Photo:ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

Soap opera star Ron Hale has died. He was 78.

Born Ronald Hale Thigpen, Hale portrayed Roger Coleridge on ABC’sRyan’s Hopefor the entirety of its run, as well as the father of mobster Sonny Corinthos in the network’s long-running soap opera,General Hospital. He died on Aug. 27, according to anobituary.

A cause of death has not yet been revealed at this time.

Ron Hale, Jackie Zeman appearing in the ABC tv series ‘General Hospital’ in 2007.Adam Larkey /American Broadcasting Companies via Getty

Adam Larkey /American Broadcasting Companies via Getty

After news of his death, tributes began to pour in.

“The entireGeneral HospitalFamily is saddened to hear of Ron Hale’s passing,” reads a statement published on theGeneral HospitalX(formerly Twitter) account. “We would like to extend our condolences to his loved ones during this difficult time. He was an incredible actor and an unforgettable colleague. May he rest in peace.”

“It’s with a heavy heart that we’ve lost another great one. My dear friend Ron Hale has passed away. Ron was an amazing talent and an even better friend. I will miss you,”Days of Our Livesalum Billy Warlock (who played Frankie Brady on the daytime series) posted onXon Wednesday, Oct. 2.

Television viewers knew Hale as Dr. Roger Coleridge onRyan’s Hopefrom 1975 to 1989. Next, Hale starred inGeneral Hospitalfrom 1995 to 2010 and theGHspin-off seriesPort Charlesfrom 1997 until 2000.

Ron Hale in Ryan’s Hope.ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

According to Hale’s obituary, the Grand Rapids, Mich., native attended Furman University. Before becoming a beloved soap star, he appeared in plays at the Trustus Theatre in Columbia, S.C.

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.

Hale earned Daytime Emmy Award nominations for outstanding supporting actor in a daytime drama series forRyan’s Hopein 1979 and 1980.

source: people.com