Tyler Christopher, an actor best known for his long-running role on the TV soap opera “General Hospital,” has died. He was 50.
A former co-star, Maurice Benard, said on Instagram that Christopher had died Tuesday morning in his San Diego apartment because of a “cardiac event.” Christopher’s manager, Chi Muoi Lo, confirmed the death.
Christopher won a Daytime Emmy Award in 2016 for best lead actor for his role as Stefan DiMera on “Days of Our Lives,” another soap opera. He is best known for playing Nikolas Cassadine on “General Hospital” from 1996 to 2016.
“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,” Benard said. “Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him.”
He described Christopher as a mental health advocate, adding that he spoke openly about his struggles with bipolar disorder, depression and alcohol.
He is survived by his children and his father, Benard wrote.
Lo said the news of his death “was incredibly shocking”
“He was a very gifted actor, and more importantly, an amazing friend,” Lo said. “My heart goes out to his friends and family who loved him so much.”