Robert Kelker-Kelly, the veteran soap opera actor known for roles on Days of Our Lives, Another World and General Hospital, has died at age 62.
Authorities say nothing suspicious was found
The St. Charles County Medical Examiner in Missouri confirmed Kelker-Kelly’s death. According to information provided to Entertainment Weekly by local police, the actor had reportedly complained of chest pain before becoming unresponsive. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures but were unable to revive him.
Police said there was nothing suspicious at the scene and that the circumstances appeared consistent with a medical event. An official cause of death was not immediately available, so reports should not go beyond what authorities have confirmed.
Kelker-Kelly became a familiar face in daytime television
The Wichita, Kansas native began his soap career in 1987 as Sam Fowler on Another World. He later became widely known to Days of Our Lives viewers when he took over the role of Bo Brady in 1992.
Kelker-Kelly remained in the role for several years and received a Soap Opera Digest Award during his run. He later returned to Another World in a different role before joining General Hospital as villain Stavros Cassadine, a character he played during multiple appearances between 2001 and 2014.
A career beyond acting
Outside television, Kelker-Kelly also pursued aviation and worked as a professional pilot and flight instructor. His acting career nevertheless left a lasting impression on daytime audiences, particularly fans who followed the major soap operas of the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s.
News of his death prompted renewed attention to his years as Bo Brady, one of Days of Our Lives’ signature characters. Peter Reckell is most closely associated with the role, but Kelker-Kelly’s interpretation remains a memorable chapter in the show’s long history.
Kelker-Kelly was 62. Further details about an official cause of death had not been announced at the time of reporting.