Robyn Bernard, widely recognized for her impactful contribution to the television industry, especially for her role in the celebrated soap opera “General Hospital,” was found dead in San Jacinto, California, on March 12, at the age of 64.
Her body was discovered in a field behind a business during the early hours, as reported by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
The cause of Bernard’s death has not yet been established, and authorities are investigating the circumstances of her passing.
Bernard’s acting career was most vibrant during the 1980s and early 1990s, with her portrayal of Terry Brock on “General Hospital” from 1984 to 1990 being her most celebrated role. Over six years, she appeared in 145 episodes, embodying a character whose aspirations as a musician were hindered by a drinking problem, a storyline that resonated with many viewers.
Beyond her work on “General Hospital,” Bernard’s talent graced several films and television shows. Her first on-screen performance was in the 1981 movie “Diva,” followed by a role in the 1986 French film “Betty Blue,” which received an Oscar nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Bernard’s versatility also led her to guest roles in series such as “Simon & Simon,” “Whiz Kids,” “The Facts of Life,” and “Tour of Duty.” After departing from “General Hospital,” she appeared in the French miniseries “Maigret” and the French film “Kings for a Day.” Her last credited role was in the 2002 movie “Voices from the High School.”
Born on May 26, 1959, in Gladewater, Texas, Bernard’s journey into the arts was influenced by her upbringing in a preacher’s family, alongside her sister Crystal, who later starred in the 1990s TV series “Wings.” Robyn Bernard attended Baylor University but left to pursue her artistic passions, eventually making her way to Hollywood where she quickly found success.
Bernard is remembered not only for her contributions to the world of entertainment but also for her personal story of perseverance and dedication to her craft. Her role on “General Hospital” allowed her to integrate her background as a gospel singer into her character’s storyline, a feature of the role she spoke fondly of in interviews.
The investigation into Bernard’s death by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department continues, with an autopsy pending. Despite the preliminary investigation indicating no evidence of foul play, the exact circumstances leading to her presence in the field and the cause of her death remain under scrutiny.
Bernard is survived by her father, Jerry Wayne Bernard, and her sisters, Scarlett and Crystal.
