Phil Carey, Soap Actor Dies

The soap actor will be remembered most for his role as the ruthless tycoon Asa Buchanan, although he acted alongside some legends of Hollywood. Carey died Friday in his New York City home after a long battle with lung cancer, ABC network officials reported.

"His presence will always be a part of 'One Life to Live,'" said Frank Valentini, the show's executive producer. "The best way to describe Phil was bigger than life. Like Asa, he possessed an undeniable quality that drew you to him."

Phil Carey was actually born Eugene Joseph Carey on July 15, 1925 in Hackensack, N.J. His film career began when he landed a part in "Operation Pacific" which starred John Wayne. Carey followed up with roles in "Springfield Rifle" with Gary Cooper, "Mister Roberts" with Henry Fonda and "The Long Gray Line" with Tyrone Power.

Before becoming a soap opera villain, Carey had stints in prime time television as well. Shows like "Laredo," and "Philip Marlowe" to his credit. He could also be seen in TV guest appearances like "Gunsmoke," "All in the Family," and "Police Woman."

In 1980 Carey would begin the role that would define his career playing billionaire businessman Asa Buchanan. The character died in his sleep in August 2007, however through the magic of television, Carey had been seen on the show as recently as December 29th in the form of 'video wills.'

Carey leaves behind a wife, Colleen, their two children, and three additional children from a previous marriage.

Unfortunately, another former cast member, Clint Ritchie, who created the role of Clint Buchanan (Asa Buchanan's oldest son) on the show, passed on February 4.