John Reilly: In Memoriam
by Emily Nagle
John Reilly, a veteran soap opera actor, has died of a heart attack at the age of 86.
Reilly’s death was announced by his daughter Caitlin in a heartfelt Instagram post on January 10th, 2021, with a caption reading, “John Henry Matthew Reilly AKA Jack. The brightest light in the world has gone out. Imagine the best person in the world. Now imagine that person being your dad. I’m so grateful he was mine. I’m so grateful I got to love him. I’m so grateful I made it in time to hold him and say goodbye. I honestly don’t know what I’m going to do, but I know he’ll be with me. I love you forever Daddy.”
Hailing from Chicago, IL, Reilly began his 30+ year acting career in the mid-1960s, obtaining minor roles in Death Valley Days, Gunsmoke, and Apple’s Way. One of his most notable roles was on General Hospital, playing the part of Sean Donely from 1984-1994, reappearing in 2008 and 2013. He also had a recurring role in Beverly Hills, 90210 as Kelly Taylor’s father Bill, and played Alistair Crane on NBC’s Passions from 2005 to 2008.
The official General Hospital Twitter account posted a tribute to Reilly in response to his death, stating, “The entire General Hospital family is heartbroken to hear of John Reilly’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones. Rest in peace.” Reilly is survived by his wife Liz, five daughters, and two grandchildren.
