'General Hospital' Star Dead at 43 – Family Member Found It 'Difficult' to Share News of His Death

• "General Hospital" star Billy Miller tragically passed away at 43. He was only a few days shy of celebrating his 44th birthday.
• A family member of Miller took to social media to express how "difficult" the sad news was to share.

A few days ago, on Friday, September 15, news outlets announced the tragic passing of soap opera star Billy Miller. The talented actor, best known for starring in notable classics like "General Hospital," "All My Children," and "The Young and the Restless," died at 43 in Austin, Texas.

Although the star's representatives have yet to give details concerning the exact cause of death, sources report that Miller was battling manic depression. Additionally, news sources suggest that there could be more to it.

Miller's death happened a few days shy of him celebrating his 44th birthday. The Tulsa, Oklahoma-born actor, who was raised in Grand Prairie, was born on September 17, 1979.

Yesterday, Miller's family member released a comment concerning the news of Miller's passing. The actor's cousin, Zeek Taylor, expressed:

"Sad news is difficult to share, but yesterday I received a call that my cousin Billy Miller had passed. He was my second cousin and the son of my first cousin Pat who I love dearly..."

Billy Miller Was an Icon in the Soap Opera TV World, and Many Have Paid Tribute to the Late Actor

Miller was revered in the entertainment industry as a legendary soap opera star. Throughout his career, he has won three Daytime Emmys. All three Emmys stem from his performance in "The Young and the Restless" as Billy Abbott.

Miller appeared in over 700 episodes of the soap opera favorite, and when he starred in "General Hospital," he starred in over 500 episodes. In addition to his incredible achievements as a soap opera actor, he also scored roles in various movies and other series.

Of these productions, some of the most notable ones include "American Sniper," "Truth Be Told," "Bad Blood," "Ray Donovan," "Suits," "Fatal Honeymoon," "Ringer," "Urban Cowboy," "Ripper," "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," and "CSI: NY," among others.

Outside of his formidable acting career, Miller was also a producer. According to his career portfolio, he also owned a business called 4M, which specialized in constructing and managing bars in South Bay, California.

When news broke of his death, Miller's co-stars, colleagues, and fellow actors in the industry dedicated touching tributes in his honor. Among his soap opera co-stars, Eileen Davidson penned on X:

"I'm so sad to hear of Billy Miller's passing. His infectious charm and warmth left lasting impressions on all of us who were lucky enough to have him in our lives. Im gonna miss that mischievous smile. Love you Billy. [sic]"

Jason Thompson also thought the news was heartbreaking as he noted, "I'm so sorry and saddened to hear about my friend, Billy Miller. Heartbreaking. He was funny, had a great laugh and very talented. Light and love to his family and friends. ❤️"

Stephen Nichols wrote, "I had a lot of love and respect for Billy Miller. We had some good times on #Y&R. His untimely death is a great loss. Love to his family and all who loved him.♥️"

Nancy Lee Grahn tweeted, "So very sorry to hear this very sad and unexpected news. I would like very much for my beloved General Hospital to have no more of it. #RIPBillyMiller" "Suits" co-creator Aaron Korsh also dedicated a tribute to Miller. On Sunday, Korsh shared:

"Very sad news for the entire Suits family. I flew home once with Billy...A funny, smart, kind, gentle man."

Amongst the many famous stars paying their respects, Hollywood actress Octavia Spencer also shared a touching message on social media. Spencer stated:

"I am speechless...To his family, legions of fans, and our #TruthBeTold family, my deepest condolences. R.I.P. Billy. Your talent Will truly be missed."

Miller's fans continue to mourn the devastating loss of their beloved entertainment icon. Although Miller is deeply missed, his family and friends will not forget him in a hurry, as one wrote in part, "[...] I will never forget your talent,your smile and how humble you were."