Robyn Bernard Found Dead in Open Field: 3 Other 'General Hospital' Stars with Tragic Fates

• "General Hospital," a soap opera that has been part of viewers' lives for decades, lost another former cast member, Robyn Bernard.
• Bernard's body was found in an open field on March 12, 2024.
• However, she was not the only one to suffer a tragic death. Here is a glimpse into the three actors from "General Hospital" who suffered devastating deaths.

"General Hospital" is a TV show that has been part of many viewers' lives and introduced the world to several actors. The show follows the stories of friends, family, and enemies navigating life in Port Charles, New York, with a busy hospital nearby, faced with various challenges.

As a soap opera showcasing the unpredictability of life, some of the cast members were victims of devastating deaths. Here’s a look into three actors who suffered tragic fates.

Robyn Bernard

One of the actors who joined the "General Hospital" cast was Robyn Bernard, who was announced dead on March 12, 2024. According to the Riverside County Sheriff's police report, Bernard’s body was found in an open field behind a business block in San Jacinto. The cause of death has yet to be determined; however, an autopsy was scheduled for March 13, 2024.

Bernard was born in Gladewater, Texas, and started building her acting career with minor parts in the '80s. She appeared in shows like “Diva,” “The Facts of Life,” “Simon and Simon,” and “Tour of Duty.” Eventually, she got her breakthrough role on the soap opera "General Hospital," where she took on the role of Terry Brock in 1984. Bernard was part of the show until 1990 and appeared in about 145 episodes.

Her final role was in 2002, for the movie "Voices From the High School," where she played a psychologist. Soon after, Robyn Bernard chose to lead a private life and stayed out of the spotlight until her death at 64.

Lindsey Pearlman

Lindsey Pearlman was another renowned actress from the show "Chicago Justice". She was tragically found dead in Hollywood several days after she was reported missing. Pearlman, aged 43, was confirmed dead by the Los Angeles County coroner's office following a death investigation conducted by the Los Angeles police.

On a sad Friday morning, police were called to Franklin Avenue and North Sierra Bonita Avenue in Hollywood, where they found Pearlman. Her husband, Vance Smith, shared the heart-wrenching news on Instagram, expressing his devastation and requesting privacy for the family during this difficult time. The Los Angeles Police Department had previously issued a missing person after she never returned home in February 2022.

After graduating from the Second City Conservatory, she moved from Chicago to Los Angeles, to showcase her versatility and talent, both on screen and on stage. Her website fondly reflects her personality, portraying her as a fan of '90s R&B, with a passion for advocating for human rights and animals, and a unique sense of humor.

In a distressing development, it was reported that Pearlman had a history of depression and had expressed suicidal intentions to her husband the day before her body was discovered. Her car was found at the base of Runyon Canyon, a popular hiking area in Hollywood, where she reportedly overdosed. Despite the ongoing investigations and the pending official cause of death, the circumstances suggest a tragic end to her struggles.

Beyond her television and film achievements, Pearlman was an avid improviser and stage actress. She spent seven years with the touring show "Sex Signals," using comedy to address sexual assault awareness. Her commitment to activism and her craft left an indelible mark on those who knew her and her audience.

Pearlman's loss was felt deeply by her family, friends, and fans, who remember her not only for her artistic talents but also for her spirited personality and compassionate heart. In memory of the actress’, let us all be reminded to reach out, support one another, and cherish the moments we share. For those struggling with mental health issues, remember, to seek help through resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Jay Pickett

Jay Pickett was also a cherished figure in the entertainment world, known for his roles in “General Hospital." He passed away suddenly on July 30, 2021, while on the set of his upcoming film "Treasure Valley." At the age of 60, the news of his untimely death sent shockwaves through the industry, with many mourning the loss of a talented actor and producer.

While preparing to film a scene in Idaho for "Treasure Valley," a film where Pickett not only played the lead role but also worked as a producer and writer, he suffered what is believed to have been a heart attack.

Despite immediate efforts to save him, Pickett’s death was later announced, leaving the cast, crew, and his fans in disbelief. Travis Mills, the film’s director, expressed profound grief, highlighting the industry’s loss of an extraordinary talent and a compassionate individual.

Pickett was born in Spokane, Washington, on February 10, 1961. He graduated from Boise State University and began to embark on his acting career in the late 1980s. He landed big roles in hit shows like, “Days of Our Lives,” and later as Frank in the “General Hospital” spin-off, “Port Charles," "Dexter," "Queen Sugar," and "NCIS: Los Angeles."

Pickett’s dedication to his craft extended beyond acting; he was also a gifted screenwriter and producer. His work on “Soda Springs” showcased his multifaceted talent. He was described as incredibly kind, generous, and talented. Pickett's spirit was felt by all who interacted with him, whether on set or in personal encounters.

The official Facebook page of “Treasure Valley” shared a touching tribute to Pickett, detailing his life's journey from a rodeo-loving youth in Caldwell, Idaho, to a respected actor and filmmaker. He was a family man at heart, deeply devoted to his wife, Elena, and their three children, and his legacy will continue living on through them.

His family expressed their profound sadness and the immense impact Jay Pickett had on those around him. As the film industry and his loved ones continue to remember him, his work, both on and off the screen, will remain a beacon of his enduring spirit and talent.

Shell Kepler

Shell Kepler, known for her long-standing role as the gossipy nurse Amy Vining on the popular television soap opera “General Hospital,” passed away at the age of 49 in Portland, Oregon. Her death occurred at Oregon Health and Science University, with renal failure cited as the cause of her passing.

Kepler's portrayal of Nurse Vining from 1979 to 2002 made her a beloved figure among fans, creating a character that became an iconic part of the “General Hospital” landscape. Beyond her notable television role, she also appeared in the 1982 Joan Collins film “Homework,” and made guest appearances on the sitcom “Three’s Company.”

The actress was born in Ohio and relocated to California at the age of 10. Kepler's ambition in acting manifested early. She humorously recounted in interviews how, before she was old enough to drive, she relied on friends to take her to auditions. This determination and ambition set the stage for her successful acting career, which began in her teenage years.

Kepler's talents extended beyond acting into the realm of business and philanthropy. She became a successful entrepreneur, marketing her "Lacy Afternoon" clothing collection on the Home Shopping Club, where she achieved impressive sales figures, reportedly topping $20 million in 1994. After leaving the world of television, Kepler moved to Oregon, where she focused her efforts on raising funding for charity and leading a life committed to giving back to the community.

While there has been some confusion regarding her age at the time of death, with discrepancies between various sources, the impact of her life and career remains clear. She will be remembered fondly by fans, friends, and family and her passing is a loss to all who knew her work or were touched by her generosity.