Johnny Wactor of ‘General Hospital’ shot dead in attempted theft

Actor Johnny Wactor, known for his roles in TV shows General Hospital, Westworld, The OA and more, was shot and killed after an attempted theft in Los Angeles. He was 37.

TMZ confirmed the news Sunday (May 26) through confirmation by his mother, Scarlett Wactor. According to NBC4, Wactor was with a coworker in Los Angeles early Saturday morning when they spotted three men attempting to steal a catalytic converter from his car.

One of the suspects reportedly fired at Wactor before the trio fled the scene. Paramedics then rushed Wactor to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. “I just don’t understand what a senseless coward act [it was] by that person,” Wactor’s mother said to NBC4. The Los Angeles news outlet adds that catalytic converters are often targeted by thieves as they contain precious metals that are valuable when extracted and resold.

In a statement issued to Variety, Wactor’s agent David Shaul said, “Johnny Wactor was spectactular human being. Not just a talented actor who was committed to his craft but a real moral example to everyone who knew him.

“Standing for hard work, tenacity and a never give up attitude. In the highs and lows of a challenging profession he always kept his chin up and kept striving for the best he could be. Our time with Johnny was a privilege we would wish on everyone. He would literally give you the shirt off his back. After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever.”

Tributes poured in for Wactor after news of his death was confirmed. “When the tears slow down, I am literally sick to my stomach at this news,” wrote General Hospital actor Jon Lindstrom. “Johnny was one of those rare young men in this business who was kind, unassuming, humble, and always thought about other people.”

“A talented young guy who just wanted to share that talent with the world,” he continues. “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.”

#JohnnyWactor 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. A talented young guy who just wanted to share that talent with… pic.twitter.com/IQVqvhe3nn

— Jon Lindstrom (@thejonlindstrom) May 26, 2024

Fellow General Hospital actor Ashton Arbab wrote that Wactor “was not only my tv dad… on General Hospital but he was a great human, a kind soul, an inspiration and a one of a kind actor.”

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. May your soul rest in peace. Heaven gained an Angel❤️ #generalhospital #gh pic.twitter.com/3EvHAol3TJ

— Ashton Arbab (@ashton_arbab) May 26, 2024

Actor William DeVry wrote: “Honestly, words can’t begin 2 express the sadness with which 2 convey my feelings towards losing another #GH Alum. The senselessness of this lose is beyond description. Johnny was such a good guy. Really horrible.”

Honestly, words can’t begin 2 express the sadness with which 2 convey my feelings towards losing another #GH Alum. 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.

— William deVry (@WilliamdeVry1) May 26, 2024

Wactor portrayed Brando Corbin on General Hospital from 2020 to 2022, appearing in more than 160 episodes of the long-running soap opera. He also appeared as a guest actor on Westworld, The OA, Station 19, Criminal Minds, NCIS, among others.