Best known for his role as Edmund Grey on ABC’s “All My Children,” it is with great sadness to report that actor John Callahan has died. He was 66 years old.
According to a representative for the actor, Callahan died unexpectedly this morning, Saturday, March 28, after he suffered a massive stroke at his Palm Desert, California home. On the morning of Friday, March 27, paramedics responded to a call and rushed the actor to Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, California where he was put on life support. Daughter Kaya Callahan and his ex-wife and former “AMC” co-star, Eva La Rue, were notified immediately and drove from Los Angeles to Rancho Mirage.
The rep notes that Callahan’s death is not related to COVID-19, “but due to the current hospital safety regulations, the younger Callahan and La Rue were able to see the actor for a limited time before having to exit the hospital. They were then notified of Callahan’s passing shortly after midnight by phone.”
In a statement, La Rue said, “We are extremely saddened and distraught over the loss of John. He was my great friend, co-parent and an amazing father to Kaya. The absence of his bigger than life, gregarious personality will leave a hole in our hearts forever. Words cannot express the shock and devastation we are feeling at this time. The Yankees just lost one of their greatest fans.”
Callahan played Edmund Grey on “AMC” from 1992-2005 where he met La Rue, who played Dr. Maria Santos Grey on the soap. Their characters were dubbed one of daytime’s super couples. The actors later were married in real-life and welcomed their daughter, Kaya.
Among other credits, Callahan appeared on the daytime drama “Santa Barbara” from 1986-1988 as Craig Hunt and on the primetime drama “Falcon Crest” from 1989-1992 as Eric Stavros. He also played Dr. Richard Baker on “Days of our Lives” from 2008-2010, and Leo Russell on “General Hospital” from 1984-1985.
No information regarding a memorial service for Callahan has been made available and the family will issue no further comments at this time. The family has asked for privacy and appreciates all positive thoughts and prayers sent.