Adrian Anchondo’s run as Marco Rios on General Hospital came to a shocking and emotional end in the March 25 episode, as the character was killed off in a brutal stabbing that left fans stunned. While the twist hit hard on screen, Anchondo told TV Insider that he wasn’t entirely surprised, sharing that he had long suspected Marco’s story would end this way.
Key Takeaways
- Marco dies after a brutal stabbing by Ross Cullum.
- Adrian Anchondo says he expected the character’s exit months in advance.
- The actor calls Marco’s ending meaningful and hero-driven.
Marco’s Story Ends in Tragedy
Marco’s final arc brought high stakes and emotional payoff. Working alongside Lucas (Van Hansis), he set out to secure life-saving medication for Britt (Kelly Thiebaud), whose Huntington’s disease had reached a critical point. The medication was being held at Wyndemere by Marco’s father, Sidwell (Carlo Rota), and WSB Director Ross Cullum (Andrew Hawkes), putting Marco in direct danger.
Despite the risks, Marco succeeded in obtaining the medication. But the victory didn’t last. Cullum tracked him down and attacked him in his law office, stabbing him in a violent confrontation. By the time Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn) found him, it was already too late. Marco later died in surgery, marking a tragic end to a story that had been driven by love, sacrifice, and urgency.
Anchondo Knew the End Was Coming
While the death shocked viewers, Anchondo revealed that he had been preparing for it for months. He shared that by late summer, it became clear to him that Marco’s exit wasn’t a question of if, but when and how it would happen. Instead of resisting that possibility, he leaned into the work, focusing on making every moment count.
Anchondo explained that he made a conscious effort not to take the decision personally. For him, the priority was always the story. He emphasized that the narrative comes first, and that understanding allowed him to fully commit to Marco’s journey, even as it moved toward a tragic conclusion.
A Role That Left a Lasting Impact
Although his time on the show was relatively short, Anchondo formed strong bonds with his co-stars, including Hansis and Rota. Those relationships added depth to his experience and made his exit more emotional. He also spoke highly of working with Thiebaud, calling it one of the highlights of his time on the series.
The role itself carried deeper meaning as well. Anchondo highlighted the importance of portraying a queer Latino character on daytime television, noting how significant that representation felt. He expressed gratitude to the show’s leadership for giving him the opportunity to bring Marco to life in a way that resonated both personally and culturally.
What’s Next for Adrian Anchondo
With his General Hospital chapter now closed, Anchondo is already looking ahead. He’s actively auditioning and recently received a callback for an HBO project, signaling that new opportunities are on the horizon. At the same time, he’s finding happiness in his personal life, including his relationship with Days of our Lives actor Colton Little.
While Marco’s story ended in heartbreak, Anchondo made it clear he’s leaving the experience with appreciation and momentum. The role may be over, but it has opened new doors.
