Gerald “Jerry” verDorn, who was an iconic face on Guiding Light (GL) for over 25 years, has passed away.
The actor succumbed to a months-long battle with cancer on Sunday, May 1st, according to his family. He was 72.
“Jerry’s colleagues, friends, and family appreciated his amazing wit and the generosity he always showed, making those who knew him feel welcomed and respected,” his obituary reads.
The world of daytime drama quickly responded to the sad news with tributes for the fallen star.
“I was very sad to learn about the passing of my friend and all around great guy, Jerry verDorn,” General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini shared on Twitter. “On behalf of everyone here at GH, we send our heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends.”
Although verDorn was best known for playing Ross Marler on GL, he also left an indelible mark as Clint Buchanan on One Life To Live (OLTL) for eight years. He retired from acting when that ABC soap was canceled in 2013.
“I had the privilege and honor to work with Jerry Ver Dorn on GL and OLTL,” actress Kassie DePaiva tweeted. “What a gentleman and talent. So sad… because the world lost an amazing human being and the soap world lost a giant.”
At the end of his 34 years in daytime television, verDorn had been awarded two Daytime Emmy awards and four additional nominations. The actor also raised awareness and funds for two charities that were close to his heart, the American Cancer Society and Autism Speaks.
“During and after his long acting career, Jerry co-hosted an annual benefit called Stars and Strikes, where fans could bowl and mingle with favorite daytime drama actors,” the obituary states. “He helped raise thousands of dollars for both the American Cancer Society and Autism Speaks over the course of 17 years.”
verDorn is survived by his wife Beth, sons Peter and Jake, daughters-in-law Laura and Erin, plus his grandchildren Benjamin, Nora and Penelope.
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Ryan Pratt
Ryan is an avid runner, reader, hiker and music collector. When he isn't writing and editing for Fame10 Soaps, he's relishing in the fine company of his two cats, Penny and Gus.