Dean Geyer arrived in Port Charles with a new name, a major milestone, and first-day nerves. The General Hospital newcomer debuted as Dr. Tristan Roberts on the same day GH celebrated its 16,000th episode. In a new interview, Geyer opened up about joining the soap, working opposite Steve Burton, and why the pace took some getting used to.
Key Takeaways
- Dean Geyer made his GH debut as Dr. Tristan Roberts during the show’s 16,000th episode celebration.
- Geyer admitted he was nervous working opposite Steve Burton, who helped calm him on set.
- Frank Valentini made Geyer feel included during the big cast celebration.
- Tristan Roberts was named in honor of GH legend Tristan Rogers.
- Geyer said he had serious stage fright at first, but castmates helped him adjust as Tristan’s story begins.
Geyer Faced First-Day Nerves
Geyer spoke to TV Insider about joining GH and admitted that his first scenes with Burton (Jason) were intimidating. “I’ve got to admit, my heart was beating out of my chest.” He added, “I was nervous, and I never usually get nervous, but the show is so different to what I’m used to.”
Still, Burton helped calm things down, with Geyer saying, “Steve was very welcoming, and that calms the nerves down.”
That first day also brought the show’s huge 16,000th-episode celebration. Geyer said he stood behind the cameras during the cast photo because he was not sure whether he belonged in it yet. Then EP Frank Valentini called him over and brought him right into the group.
The actor also learned that Tristan Roberts was named in honor of Tristan Rogers, who played the legendary Robert Scorpio. Finola Hughes (Anna) helped fill him in on the backstory, and Valentini confirmed the tribute. Geyer said the name carries real value for fans, which means no pressure at all, except the very obvious kind.
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Tristan Has a New Start
Geyer also admitted the first couple of weeks were rough. “This has never happened to me, but I had some serious stage fright in the first two weeks.” He explained that GH moves much faster than other shows he has worked on, with scenes often needing to be ready in one or two takes.
Thankfully, he found support from several castmates. Alexa Havins (Lulu) helped him understand how to approach the day-to-day rhythm, while Kelly Thiebaud (Britt) was familiar from his chemistry read.
Rebecca Herbst (Liz) also welcomed him, and Geyer said he would love to work with Cameron Mathison (Drew) because of a family connection through his wife.
As for Tristan, Geyer described him as the new surgeon on staff at GH. He said Tristan has friction with Britt, wants a new life, and may be carrying baggage from wherever he came from.
Geyer also teased that fans may be surprised by where the character goes, and he hopes viewers welcome him with open arms.
