Acclaimed soap opera actor, Ron Hale, passed away at age 78 on August 27, 2024, in his St. George, South Carolina residence. Born Ronald Hale Thigpen, he was a recognized figure in the world of daytime television for over forty years, playing iconic characters on shows like “General Hospital” and “Ryan’s Hope.”
Hale’s acting journey started in 1968 with a small part on the series “N.Y.P.D.,” paving the way for his significant role as Dr. Roger Coleridge on “Ryan’s Hope.” His portrayal of Dr. Coleridge, a character hailing from a wealthy, drama-ridden family, was witnessed in over 900 episodes.
“He was a wonderful human and will be missed dearly,” his niece, Lori Brown, said, emphasizing that Hale’s presence was felt both on set and in his personal life.
Hale later became a part of “General Hospital,” where from 1995 until his 2010 retirement, he played Mike Corbin, the distant father of mob boss Sonny Corinthos. A statement from the show revealed the cast and crew’s grief: “The entire ‘General Hospital’ Family is saddened to hear of Ron Hale’s passing. He was an incredible actor and an unforgettable colleague.”
Besides his notable television roles, Hale took part in a number of films, one being the political thriller “All the President’s Men.” Playing the role of Watergate burglar, Frank Sturgis, he worked alongside Hollywood legends Dustin Hoffman and Robert Redford. His versatile acting skills, enabling him to deftly handle both hero and villain roles, were widely recognized in the entertainment industry.
Hale also made significant contributions to the theater arts. He regularly performed at the Trustus Theatre in Columbia, South Carolina, a theater co-founded by his brother, Jim Thigpen. Hale took great pride in supporting his brother’s theater through his consistent participation in various productions.
Hale’s work received multiple accolades during his career, including two Daytime Emmy nominations for his performance as Dr. Coleridge. His compelling on-screen chemistry with his co-stars and his commitment to his craft left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to work alongside him.
Billy Warlock, a former co-star of Hale on “General Hospital,” expressed profound grief on social media, mourning the loss of a remarkable talent and a dear friend. He acknowledged Hale’s exceptional acting abilities and their deep friendship, stating that Hale’s absence would be profoundly felt in both personal and professional domains.
Hale is survived by his nieces and nephews: Lori Brown, Max Brabham, Erin Wilson, and Marc Brown. They remembered him as a kind and supportive uncle. His family highlighted that despite his well-known status, Hale remained down-to-earth and was cherished by those close to him.
