(IntegrityPress.org) – General Hospital star Robyn Bernard’s body was discovered in a commercial yard in San Jacinto, California, early March 12. She was 64 years old at the time of her death. The cause of death is still under investigation according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office. The coroner has not yet determined the cause of death.
The coroner was able to identify her body using fingerprints, according to a report by TMZ. It’s unclear if her body was discovered first or if she was initially reported missing. An autopsy was scheduled for March 14 and toxicology will take weeks to return results. Police do not suspect foul play.
According to a press release from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, the actress was discovered in an “open field behind a business.” According to a report by the Daily Mail, Bernard was discovered “homeless and addicted to alcohol and meth.” Citing individuals familiar with the former actress’ situation, the Mail also claimed that Bernard fell into addiction after retiring and moving to San Jacinto.
Speaking to E!, the sheriff’s office said that deputies were dispatched just before 4am. Officers pronounced Bernard dead upon arriving at the scene at 4:08 am.
Bernard was born in Texas on May 26, 1959. Drawn to performing from a young age, Bernard first learned her love for the stage when singing gospel songs with her younger sister Crystal. Bernard eventually became a Hollywood icon over the years after appearing in smaller roles in ‘80s programs like “The Facts of Life,” “Diva,” and “Simon & Simon.” She achieved star status when she landed the role of Terry Brock in 1984 on “General Hospital.” She would go on to play that role for 145 episodes, leaving the show in 1990.
The show dealt with the impacts of alcoholism by showing how it ultimately impacted her character’s fictional music career.
Her last acting role was in 2002 in the film “Voices From The High School.” After leaving television, Bernard retired and lived a quiet life in San Jacinto.
Bernard leaves behind her father Jerry Wayne Bernard and her sisters Scarlett and Crystal.
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