As previously reported, former “General Hospital” star Johnny Wactor, who played Brando Corbin on the daytime drama series from January 2020 to September 2022, has died.
Wactor, 37, was reportedly shot and killed early Saturday morning when he was alerted of three individuals attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car. According to his mother, Scarlett, who spoke with TMZ, Wactor did not try to stop or interfere in the theft but the unidentified individuals shot him anyway in their escape. Police have yet to release any information about the suspects.
According to NBC Los Angeles (KNBC/NBC4), the incident took place near the intersection of Hope Street and Pico Boulevard in downtown Los Angeles. Police were dispatched to the location at about 3:15 a.m. local time. Paramedics rushed Wactor to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“I just don’t understand what a senseless coward act by that person,” Scarlett Wactor said in a statement released to NBC4.
Following the news of his death, several of the actor’s former “General Hospital” co-stars took to social media to share memories of the beloved star, including former on-screen love interest Sofia Mattsson, who plays Sasha on the soap.
Christine Bartolucci/ABC
“My heart is so utterly broken… Johnny was the absolute best. So genuine. So caring. Incredibly hard working and humble. With a huge heart that spread so much kindness and joy,” said Mattsson in a post on Instagram. “He always made sure everyone around him felt seen, heard and loved. I admire the man he was so much and I’m a better person for having known him.”
“We shared so many special moments, both on and off screen, and I will forever cherish them deeply in my heart,” Mattsson continued. “You will be so incredibly missed Johnny… I’m sure you’re already busy taking care of everyone up there.”
On X (formerly Twitter), Kelly Thiebaud (ex-Britt) said in a post, “You were one of the good ones. I’m so sorry this happened to you.”
Chad Duell (Michael) also commented on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Some POS scum taking the life of someone who’s making something of themselves, and an amazing person. So disgusting and infuriating. Don’t know what else to say.. just so wrong.”
“Another talented, kind and generous @generalhospital colleague gone too soon. Deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and fans of @WactorTractor,” stated Kathleen Gati (Obrecht) on X (formerly Twitter).
“When the tears slow down, I am literally sick to my stomach at this news. Johnny was one of those rare young men in this business who was kind, unassuming, humble, and always thought about other people,” said Jon Lindstrom (Kevin) on X (formerly Twitter).
“A talented young guy who just wanted to share that talent with the world,” continued Lindstrom. “I wish I had enough love to fill the hole that his loved ones must feel right now, but I know that’s impossible. Johnny will be missed on this plane. For a long time to come. R.I.P. @WactorTractor.”
“Just tragic, enraging & heartbreaking. What a lovely man Johnny was,” posted Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis).
“Gutted…. sending my deepest condolences to his family,” said Finola Hughes (Anna) on Instagram, who later added to her initial post, saying, “I feel I must add to this post. The shock is so terrible, for such a genuine young man to be taken so violently. I am incredibly sad for his family. He was a very hardworking person, kind and extremely respectful to his fellow cast members. I am so sorry for his loss Johnny Wactor xxx.”
Christine Bartolucci/ABC
In a lengthy post on Instagram, Kirsten Storms (Maxie) said, “I’m in a state of disbelief and complete sadness. I don’t typically do posts like this, but Johnny was such a special person and it feels important (for me) to put these words out there. To @johnnywactor ‘s mother and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine what you must be feeling right now. You are in my thoughts and prayers.” She added, “Johnny was one of those rare ‘real individuals’ that you almost never come across.”
“I was fortunate enough to have some really good conversations with him where we discussed things I don’t typically open up about,” Storms continued. “For some reason, we talked about the deep stuff. He was a safe space for those conversations and, in turn, he would talk about his life. He genuinely cared about people and their journeys in life. During his time on GH I witnessed him work hard and truly have respect for every single person in our building. I just cannot believe that his life was stolen from him the way it was. My heart hurts. RIP Johnny.”
Scott Kirkland/ABC
“I am heartbroken and sickened by this terrible loss. Johnny I love you,” said Bonnie Burroughs, who portrayed Wactor’s on-screen mother, Gladys Corbin, in a post on Instagram. “My heart breaks for your real mom and your whole family. The world is darker now.”
“Heartbreaking. What an incredible man. “Deep love and prayers to Johnny’s family,” said Laura Wright on X (formerly Twitter). Wright made a separate post on her Instagram story, saying, “In shock. My heart breaks for Johnny’s family. You were an incredible man.”
“Honestly, words can’t begin 2 express the sadness with which 2 convey my feelings towards losing another #GH Alum,” shared William deVry (ex-Julian) on X (formerly Twitter). “The senselessness of this lose is beyond description. Johnny was such a good guy. Really horrible. RIP #JohnnyWactor & much love & comfort to those who loved him.
“Absolutely heartbroken while typing this. Johnny Wactor was not only my tv dad for more than 25 episodes on ‘General Hospital’ but he was a great human, a kind soul, an inspiration and a one of a kind actor,” said Ashton Arbab (ex-Dev) on X (formerly Twitter). “May your soul rest in peace. Heaven gained an Angel.”
“Johnny Wactor was a beautiful, beautiful soul. So talented. As you can see from the promo clip, always up for anything,” stated Perry Shen (ex-Brad) on X (formerly Twitter). “Funny as all heck. Fit as all hell but also loved ice cream and ate all the junk I did as well. We all were cheated of many years with him.”
“What a kind soul. We lost an amazing man,” said Cynthia Watros (Nina) on Instagram.
Johnny Wactor is survived by his mother and younger brothers, Lance and Grant.
