Ron Hale, a beloved figure in daytime television, has died at the age of 78.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Hale's family announced his passing on August 27 in St. George, South Carolina.
Hale's career in soap operas spanned several decades, with his most notable roles being on two popular ABC shows. His contributions to the genre earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fan following.
Ron Hale's journey in the soap opera world began with his role as Roger Coleridge on "Ryan's Hope." He portrayed the character for the entirety of the show's run, from 1975 to 1989. Hale's performance as the complex doctor from a well-to-do family earned him two Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1979 and 1980.
Following his success on "Ryan's Hope," Hale transitioned to another long-term role on "General Hospital." From 1995 to 2010, he recurred as Mike Corbin, the father of mob boss Sonny Corinthos, played by Maurice Benard. This character also appeared in the "General Hospital" spinoff "Port Charles" from 1997 to 2000.
Hale's ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters made him a favorite among viewers and critics alike. His longevity in the industry speaks to his talent and dedication to his craft.
Born Ronald Hale Thigpen on January 2, 1946, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Hale's journey to stardom began with his education at Furman University. At the age of 19, he made the move to New York City to pursue his acting dreams.
Hale's formal training in acting came from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, from which he graduated in 1967. This education laid the foundation for his successful career in television and theater.
His first on-screen appearance came in 1968 on an episode of ABC's "N.Y.P.D." The following year, Hale made his soap opera debut on CBS's "Search for Tomorrow," foreshadowing his future success in the genre. That same year, he also achieved a significant milestone by appearing on Broadway in William Saroyan's "The Time of Your Life."
While Hale was best known for his work in daytime television, his talent extended beyond soap operas. In 1976, he took on the role of Watergate burglar Frank Sturgis in the critically acclaimed film "All the President's Men," showcasing his ability to tackle diverse characters.
Hale's versatility as an actor was further demonstrated through his appearances on popular prime-time shows such as "Matlock" and "MacGyver." These roles allowed him to reach a broader audience and showcase his range as a performer.
In addition to his on-screen work, Hale remained connected to his theatrical roots. He performed in plays at Columbia, South Carolina's Trustus Theatre, which was founded by his late brother, Jim Thigpen Jr., and his late sister-in-law, Kay Thigpen. This connection to live theater helped keep Hale's acting skills sharp throughout his career.
Ron Hale's passing marks the end of an era in daytime television. His contributions to the soap opera genre, particularly his long-running roles in "Ryan's Hope" and "General Hospital," have left an indelible mark on the industry. Hale's ability to bring complex characters to life and maintain their relevance over many years is a testament to his skill as an actor. Hale is survived by his nieces, Lori and Erin, and nephews Max and Marc.
