The entertainment world is in mourning after the tragic death of actor Johnny Wactor, best known for his role as Brando Corbin on General Hospital. Wactor was only 37 years old when his life was cut short in a senseless act of violence in downtown Los Angeles.

According to reports from TMZ, the heartbreaking incident occurred in the early hours of the morning. Johnny and his coworkers were leaving work when they noticed three individuals tampering with his car. His mother, Scarlett Wactor, told the press that although Johnny didn’t confront the men, one of them shot him before fleeing the scene. Emergency responders arrived quickly and rushed him to the hospital, but despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after 3 a.m.

Johnny Wactor’s sudden passing has left his family, friends, and countless fans reeling from shock and grief. Scarlett Wactor described him as a kind and caring son who loved his family deeply. His younger brothers, Lance and Grant, survive him, along with his mother, who is understandably devastated by this unimaginable loss.

Wactor was a rising star in Hollywood. From 2020 to 2022, he portrayed Brando Corbin on ABC’s long-running daytime soap opera General Hospital. His character was introduced as Gladys Corbin’s presumed-dead son, a role played by actress Bonnie Burroughs. Brando’s storyline captivated audiences, particularly his marriage to Sasha Gilmore, played by Sofia Mattsson. Tragically, Brando met his end on the show after being stabbed by a serial attacker known as The Hook. Despite his character’s fate on GH, Wactor’s portrayal left a lasting impression on fans and his fellow cast members.

After the news of Johnny’s passing broke, tributes poured in from colleagues and friends. Sofia Mattsson shared a heartfelt message on social media. She described Wactor as “completely heartbroken,” calling him one of the most genuine and compassionate people she had ever met. “There was nothing like Johnny,” she wrote. “He had an enormous heart and brought so much joy and positivity to everyone around him. He made sure everyone felt valued, heard, and seen.”

Mattsson also reminisced about the meaningful moments they shared both on and off screen. “I am a better person for having known him,” she said. “I’m sure you’re already busy taking care of everyone up there.”

John Lindstrom, another GH co-star, echoed her sentiments. He admitted feeling “sick to his stomach” upon hearing the news. “Johnny was one of those rare young men in this business—kind, humble, unassuming, and always thinking of others,” Lindstrom said. “He was a gifted actor who wanted to share his talent with the world. His loss is devastating.”

Actor William deVry, also from General Hospital, struggled to find the words to express his sorrow. “Honestly, words can’t begin to express the sadness,” deVry wrote. “Losing another #GH alum like Johnny is just senseless. He was such a kind man. My heart goes out to his family and everyone who loved him.”

Frank Buckley, a TV presenter who worked with Wactor during a staged reading of one of his wife Elena’s screenplays, also paid tribute. He recalled Wactor as not only a talented actor but also a warm and generous person. “He was excellent in the role and so kind,” Buckley said. “Our deepest sympathies go out to his family.”

Michael Fairman, a journalist and producer, was among many in the industry who expressed their grief. “This really hit me hard,” he said. “Right now, my heart is with Johnny’s brothers and his mother.”

Although Wactor is best remembered for General Hospital, his career included appearances in several notable television series. His credits include Army Wives (2007), Siberia (2013), Agent X (2015), Fantastic (2016), Animal Kingdom (2016), Hollywood Girl (2010), Training Day (2017), Criminal Minds (2017), NCIS (2019), The OA (2019), Westworld (2020), The Passenger (2020), Station 19 (2023), and Barbee Rehab (2023). His versatile acting skills made him a favorite on screen, and he was steadily building a reputation as a talented and hardworking performer.

In a now-deleted Instagram video, Wactor had thanked his fans for their unwavering support. Whether they were celebrating or mourning the death of his character on General Hospital, he expressed his gratitude, calling them “the greatest people on the planet” for their passion and enthusiasm.

Wactor once spoke about his role on General Hospital, sharing how meaningful it was to bring stories and characters to life. “We get to show up and bring these stories to life,” he said. “Acting is already the coolest job in the world. But to see how deeply you care makes it all the sweeter. I’m so lucky to witness that.”

Johnny Wactor’s legacy is one of kindness, humility, and generosity. His life was tragically cut short, but he will be remembered for the positive impact he had on everyone he met. His family, friends, and fans mourn a life that ended far too soon, but his memory will live on through his work and the stories he told.

We extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones and hope Johnny has found peace.

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