After receiving a cancer diagnosis, General Hospital star Tristan Rogers says that his support is more important than ever.

Tristan Rogers was diagnosed with cancer.

Anthony Turk, the Australian actor’s representation, announced the news to fans in a press statement on Thursday, July 17, according to Deadline and TVLine. Rogers, 79, played Robert Scorpio on General Hospital and its spin-off series, General Hospital: Night Shift. His final on-screen appearance was on November 12, 2024.

“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 spokesperson said. “As they deal with the emotional and physical challenges that come with this diagnosis, the family respectfully requests privacy and understanding. “They are incredibly appreciative of the outpouring of love and support 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,” according to the statement. “This support means more to him now than ever.”

The spokesman stated that Rogers’ family has the option to provide more information.

In 1980, 17 years after the show’s premiere, Rogers made his first appearance on General Hospital. His character, Robert Scorpio, was killed off in 1992, but in typical soap opera tradition, he reappeared alive in 2006.

According to Soap Opera Digest, his last on-screen appearance was in the show’s 62nd season on November 12, 2024, when he departed town with his former wife, Holly Sutton.

“I’ve seen this show at its best and at something less than that,” he told PEOPLE in 2023, when the show celebrated its 60th anniversary.

Rogers has made recurrent appearances on The Bay, Studio City, and The Young and the Restless.