When soap opera fans think of General Hospital legends, Tristan Rogers’ Robert Scorpio often tops the list. For decades, the super spy engaged in espionage adventures as well as a long run as Port Charles’ most steadfast and successful police commissioner. Robert also had a deep connection with his ex-wife, Anna Devane (Finola Hughes), making them a super couple. Off-screen, the actors shared a genuine bond that was evident in their on-screen chemistry. Hughes recently opened up about one particularly unforgettable day in the 1980s—one that involved sun, sweat, and a dreaded pair of shorts.
A Ballet Dancer in the Heat
General Hospital’s Finola Hughes took to Instagram to share the story of her time on the 1985 Battle of the Daytime Stars TV show, writing: “July 1985, Battle of the Daytime Stars, we were playing for @emma.samms’ charity Starlight Foundation. Anyone who knows me understands I am NOT sporty. Up to that point I had lived in a ballet studio and never worn shorts (which are for schoolboys and athletes).” She attached two photos of her and Rogers, in which the pair are dressed in matching athletic outfits that captured a classic 1980s sporty look.
She continued, “This day was my worst nightmare, 100 degrees, lots of cute tan actors leaping and jumping, and shorts. Tris at one point lifted me up exuberantly, and I hissed, ‘I’m so pale, stop!’ Anyway, he always made everything fun, I’m sure I participated somehow, with Tris leading the charge!” She also recalled Kristina Wagner (Felicia) doing backflips, making Hughes uncomfortable. She concluded with, “I ended up burned to a crisp and went to watch a movie afterwards. The bandana 🤦🏻♀️ omg. It’s another nice memory of a day spent with Tris. (BTW, at this event I met two women who were to become my lifelong friends, so it was very worth it!) For Tris 💕 🕊️.”
Memories That Matter

General Hospital fans quickly filled the comments with heartfelt responses. Wagner wrote, “Omg! I’ve just loved all your posts about Tristan. Truly fantastic memories. Backflips? I was a goofy person. Always have been. Still am. Missing Tristan. ❤️.” Another longtime viewer, @savicreations, shared, “I am absolutely loving all of these posts about you and Tristan. I so loved you guys as a couple, and nothing made me happier than when you guys played off one another. Of course, you each had chemistry with others, but Robert and Anna truly were the best IMHO. Thank you for sharing your memories with us. 😍.” (Find out about the Battle of the Daytime Stars revival in 2017.)
Others reflected on what these stories mean to General Hospital fans. @lisacfrey commented, “You need to write a book - these memories are so real and the emotion - thank you for sharing - can see why the chemistry was so amazing between you two and why writers were scared to write for you - no one could write it better than you lived it!” Another follower reacted to the show that the two guest-starred on with, “I miss all those battle shows so much. A staple of my childhood.”
These kinds of posts remind fans why the history of General Hospital continues to resonate. Hughes once again underscored the unique legacy she and Rogers built together, proving that the magic of Robert and Anna extends far beyond the small screen.
General Hospital can be seen weekdays on ABC and Hulu.