Doug Sheehan, the actor best known for his role in the iconic soap opera General Hospital, has passed away at the age of 75. Sheehan, who earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for his work on the show, died peacefully at his home on the morning of Saturday, June 29, 2024, according to a statement from Kane Funeral Home, which is based in Wyoming. His wife was by his side at the time of his passing.
The statement also mentioned that funeral services are pending and that Kane Funeral Home is handling the local arrangements. The cause of Sheehan’s death has not yet been disclosed.
Sheehan, a native of California, began his television career in 1978 with a role on Charlie’s Angels, but his breakout role came the following year when he was cast as Joe Kelly, a lawyer, on General Hospital. His portrayal of Kelly from 1979 to 1982 won him widespread acclaim and a Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Supporting Role in a Daytime Drama Series.
After leaving General Hospital, Sheehan continued to build a successful television career. In 1983, he joined the cast of the popular Dallas spinoff, Knots Landing, where he played Ben Gibson, a reporter and the second husband of Valene Ewing, portrayed by Joan Van Ark.
Sheehan later starred as stockbroker Brian Harper in the NBC sitcom Day by Day, which ran for two seasons and featured co-stars Christopher Daniel Barnes and Linda Kelsey. His television appearances also included guest roles on several hit shows such as MacGyver, Diagnosis Murder, Columbo, Cheers, and Clueless.
In addition to his television work, Sheehan appeared on the big screen in films such as Cops n Roberts (1995), Victor/Victoria (1982), and the 1979 comedy 10. His final on-screen appearances were guest roles in the TV series Sabrina the Teenage Witch, starring Melissa Joan Hart, and What I Like About You, starring Amanda Bynes and Jennie Garth.
Sheehan’s death prompted an outpouring of grief on social media, where fans remembered his lasting impact on General Hospital. One user on X (formerly Twitter) noted, “He hadn’t been on General Hospital in 42 years, and the fans never forgot him and never stopped asking for his return. That’s not only remarkable but also a testament to Doug Sheehan’s enduring appeal.”
Doug Sheehan will be remembered as a talented actor whose performances left an indelible mark on television and in the hearts of his fans. His contributions to the entertainment industry, particularly his memorable role on General Hospital, will not be forgotten.