Thom Christopher, the acclaimed actor renowned for his portrayal of mob boss Carlo Hesser on the soap opera “One Life to Live,” passed away on December 5, 2024, at the age of 84. His death was confirmed by his friend Steven Bergman, who noted that Christopher had been ill for some time but “fought through it all like a champ.”
Born in October 1940, Christopher pursued acting at Ithaca College and honed his craft at New York’s Neighborhood Playhouse. He began his career on Broadway before transitioning to television, where he made significant contributions to daytime dramas. His most notable role was as Carlo Hesser on “One Life to Live,” a character he embodied from 1991 to 2008. This performance earned him a Daytime Emmy Award in 1992.
Beyond “One Life to Live,” Christopher appeared in other soap operas, including “Guiding Light” and “The Edge of Night.” His versatility extended to primetime television, with roles in series such as “T.J. Hooker,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “Law & Order.”
Colleagues remember Christopher as a consummate professional and a supportive friend. Anthony Crivello, who portrayed his on-screen son, reflected on their time together, stating, “He was always a gentleman, always supportive.” Christopher’s wife, Judith Leverone, predeceased him in 2019.
Thom Christopher’s enduring legacy in the entertainment industry is marked by his compelling performances and the profound impact he had on both audiences and fellow actors.