The Tragic Death Of Soap Opera Star Michael Tylo

Soap opera icon Michael Tylo died at the age of 73 in the final days of September, according to Soap Opera Digest. Tylo famously starred in "Guiding Light" as the heart throb Quinton McCord Chamberlain from 1981 to 1985, before returning in 1996 and 1997. He also starred in almost any other soap opera you can think of, per IMDb. He played twins, Rich and Blade Bladeson on "The Young and the Restless," Charlie Prince on "General Hospital," Matt Connolly on "All My Children," and had a stint on "The Bold and the Beautiful" playing Sherman Gale, his final soap role, per The Wrap. In his later career, he became an educator, teaching film at the College of Fine Arts at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he became assistant dean in 2003, per the New York Post. 

The college confirmed his death in a statement after his death, with Dean Nancy Uscher saying, "Michael Tylo was a beautiful and caring human being ... He was an exemplary friend, colleague, teacher, and artist. He had such a distinguished and rich career, but he was humble about his accomplishments. He loved his family dearly and lived a joyous life, but he left us way too soon." Information concerning the cause of death was not immediately released. 

The actor is also being remembered by fans and colleagues. Keep scrolling to see what they had to say about his death. 

Soap opera star Michael Tylo is survived by his wife, Rachelle Tylo, and his children, whom he shared with his ex, actor Hunter Tylo. He also had a fourth child, Michael Tylo Jr., who died in 2007, per Deadline. Although they have yet to issue a statement about his death, fans and former colleagues are sending tributes on Twitter. 

The official "Young and the Restless" Twitter account wrote, "Our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Michael Tylo who graced #YR with his talents as Blade and Rick." A fan wrote, "RIP Michael Tylo. 1/2 of one of my top 5 favorite soap opera couples of all time." A friend, journalist Michael Maloney, added, "I've many #MichaelTylo stories — most aren't suitable for print, alas. The man had an incredible wit, was generous w/his quotes & candor. At a party in '93, Hunter undid my tie, started tying it into a bow. Michael deadpanned: 'Hunter. Leave Michael alone.' RIP."

The tributes aren't just coming from the television world, though. A former student of Tylo tweeted, "Michael Tylo was one of my favorite teachers at UNLV I always appreciated both encouragement and constructive criticism when it came to my acting I know it made me stronger. He will be missed." Clearly, Tylo was much more than just one half of one of daytime television's most beloved couples and will be missed by anyone who crossed his path.