General Hospital stars honor Johnny Wactor one year after his death

When Brando was killed off on General Hospital, no one could have foreseen the tragic events that would later befall his portrayer, Johnny Wactor. In May 2024, the actor was exiting his side job with a co-worker, and when approaching his car, he encountered some mysterious men who were attempting to steal his catalytic converter. Sadly, one of the criminals shot and killed the fan favorite star. Now, one year later, two of his former castmates took some time to remember and honor their fallen friend.

His impact lives on

General Hospital stars Steve Burton (Jason) and Bradford Anderson (Spinelli), who often go by their characters’ nicknames, Stone Cold and the Jackal, respectively, took to Instagram to pay tribute to Wactor. Sharing a collage of Wactor’s photos, they wrote: “Remembering Johnny Wactor (August 31, 1986 – May 25, 2024). We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Johnny Wactor, best known to soap fans for his unforgettable role as Brando Corbin on General Hospital. Johnny brought a quiet strength, raw emotion, and deep humanity to every scene he graced — transforming Brando into a beloved character whose impact far outlived his screen time.” (Check out Burton and Anderson’s General Hospital rap song.)

The passage continued, “His passing has left a void in the daytime community and in the hearts of fans who cherished not just his talent, but the man he was. Gone far too soon, but never forgotten.” Echoing the sentiment of many, @morna5 responded, “I can’t believe it has been a year. RIP.”

Fans poured their hearts out

General Hospital's Brando and Sasha. | Image Source: ABC/YouTube

The outpouring of love from the fans was immense. @jolene_marie_ responded with, “Such an empty loss without Johnny. Rest In Peace Johnny.” Another follower, @babetope, commented, “Johnny was an amazing actor and had a beautiful soul! He is missed every day! RIP Johnny.”

@denicait702 shared the soulful reply, “One we will never forget! What a privilege to have had the pleasure of watching him onscreen on the best daytime dramas in history. I felt his real-life personality through his brilliant acting skills. Life imitates art.” @adyandoli shared some words of wisdom, writing, “Thanks for the tribute to Johnny Wactor. A selfless person on and off screen. His kindness cost him his life. [We] can remember that kindness that he showed by showing that same grace to others.”

And @captainnana17 had a great deal to say, with the comment, “Am so sorry to hear this, but he was a pleasure to watch and he did a fantastic and wonderful job and was a phenomenal asset to the daytime soap and was loved and respected by all fellow cast members. He will be watching all of them, and his memory and personality will be remembered forever. Prayers to his family and friends.” (Find out what Wactor’s co-worker had to say about his heroic final moments.)

You can watch new episodes of General Hospital on ABC and Hulu.