The world of daytime television has lost one of its most enduring and recognisable faces. The veteran actor, whose career spanned more than six decades and who became a household name for his roles in General Hospital and The Bold and the Beautiful, has died at the age of 86.
He passed away peacefully in his sleep at his ranch near Sedona, Arizona, in the early hours of 9 June after a period of heart failure.
For many Australians, especially those who grew up with the golden age of soaps, Chris Robinson was a familiar presence on the small screen.
His portrayal of Dr Rick Webber on General Hospital from 1978 to 1986 (and again in the early 2000s) made him a fan favourite, and his later role as Jack Hamilton on The Bold and the Beautiful cemented his status as a soap opera legend.
Born in West Palm Beach, Florida, on 5 November 1938, Robinson’s journey to stardom began in the 1950s.
He started as an actor and a stuntman, appearing in cult classics like Diary of a High School Bride and Beast from Haunted Cave. His rugged good looks and natural charisma soon caught the attention of casting directors.
By the 1960s, he landed roles alongside Hollywood heavyweights such as Burt Lancaster in The Young Savages (1961) and Birdman of Alcatraz (1962).
Robinson’s versatility was on full display in 1965 when he joined the cast of the World War 2 drama 12 O’Clock High as Technical Sgt Sandy Komansky. This role showcased his ability to bring depth and humanity to even the most action-packed storylines.
Soap opera royalty
But Robinson truly found his calling in the world of daytime soaps. Taking over the role of Dr Rick Webber from Michael Gregory in 1978, Robinson quickly became a central figure in General Hospital’s most memorable storylines.
Fans will recall the dramatic love triangle involving Rick, his wife Lesley (played by Denise Alexander), and Monica Quartermaine—a plot that kept viewers glued to their screens for years.
Robinson’s time on General Hospital was not without its real-life drama. In 1985, he pleaded guilty to federal income tax evasion, but in a twist worthy of a soap opera, he was allowed to continue filming under a prison work-release program.
Through it all, his professionalism and dedication to his craft never wavered. After leaving General Hospital in 1986, Robinson continued to make his mark on the soap world.
He joined Another World as Jason Frame in 1987, reuniting with Denise Alexander. In the early 1990s, he took on the role of Jack Hamilton in The Bold and the Beautiful. He remained a recurring presence on the show until 2005.
In 2002, Robinson made a much-anticipated return to General Hospital after a 16-year absence. However, his character was controversially killed off, a move that shocked and saddened longtime fans.
In a touching nod to his legacy, Robinson returned in 2013 for the show’s 50th anniversary, appearing as Rick’s spirit to make peace with old rival Alan Quartermaine.
Robinson’s influence extended beyond the world of soaps. Many will remember his iconic line from a Vicks Formula 44 cough syrup advert: ‘I’m not a doctor, but I do play one on TV.’
The phrase became a pop culture catchphrase, and Robinson’s delivery made it unforgettable.
Chris Robinson is survived by his wife of 14 years, artist Jacqui Shane-Robinson, and five sons from three previous marriages. He was known not just for his on-screen talent, but for his warmth, generosity, and sense of humour off-screen.
His passing comes less than a year after the soap world mourned the loss of another General Hospital veteran, Ron Hale, who played Mike Corbin.
The outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike is a testament to the impact Robinson had on the industry and the lives of those who watched him.
Did you have a favourite Chris Robinson moment from General Hospital or The Bold and the Beautiful? Did his characters remind you of anyone in your life? We’d love to hear your memories and tributes—share your thoughts in the comments below.
