Veteran Actor Nicholas Pryor, Star of 'Risky Business' and 'Port Charles,' Dies at Age 89

Nicholas Pryor, the veteran actor known for his nearly 350-episode run on the soap opera "Port Charles" and his role alongside Tom Cruise in "Risky Business," has passed away at the age of 89. Pryor died of cancer on Monday at his home in Wilmington, N.C., as confirmed by his agent, Susan Tolar Walters. Walters described Pryor as "an incredible individual, both inside and out" in an Instagram tribute, adding that he will be greatly missed.

Over a career spanning nearly 70 years, Pryor amassed more than 170 TV and film credits, including his portrayal of ex-spy Victor Collins in both "General Hospital" and its spin-off, "Port Charles," where he starred from 1997 to 2002. The "General Hospital" family expressed their sadness over Pryor's passing, offering condolences to his loved ones in a social media post.

Jon Lindstrom, Pryor's on-screen son from "General Hospital," shared a heartfelt tribute, calling Pryor a mentor, confidant, and one of his best friends. Lindstrom also reflected on Pryor's father-figure roles, including his performance as Tom Cruise’s father in "Risky Business" and his role in "Less Than Zero" with Robert Downey Jr.

Pryor's career began in the 1950s, gaining momentum in the mid-'60s with notable appearances in soap operas like "Another World" and "The Nurses." His extensive soap opera credits also included "All My Children," "The Edge of Night," and "Love Is a Many Splendored Thing." Additionally, Pryor made guest appearances in hit TV series such as "MAS*H," "Dallas," "The Bronx Zoo," "Murder, She Wrote," and "Beverly Hills, 90210.