Let me tell you about Jack Wagner, a name you might recognize from his days on Melrose Place and General Hospital. But behind the scenes of his acting career is a deeply personal story that every parent can relate to. On June 7, 2022, Jack experienced a parent’s worst nightmare when his youngest son, Harrison Wagner, was found deceased in a North Hollywood parking lot. According to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s case information obtained by Closer, Harrison had battled addiction in the past, something Jack had spoken openly about. Let's take a closer look at the life of this iconic star and his family.
Jack Wagner's Love Story with Kristina Wagner
Jack Wagner, the handsome actor who captured hearts on-screen, found love with his General Hospital co-star Kristina Wagner (formerly Kristina Malandro). Their on-screen chemistry as Frisco and Felicia Jones in the '80s turned into a real-life romance. They tied the knot in a private ceremony in Lake Tahoe on December 18, 1993, after Kristina became pregnant in early 1990. Their first child, Peter, was born later that year. The couple’s love story seemed like a fairytale, but life has a way of complicating even the sweetest beginnings.
The Ups and Downs of Marriage
Jack and Kristina’s relationship had its ups and downs. In 2001, they filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. But love sometimes finds a way back, and the couple reconciled in 2004. Unfortunately, their reunion was short-lived, and they decided to divorce again the following year. The divorce was finalized in 2006, but their bond as parents remained strong.
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Jack and Kristina’s Sons: Peter and Harrison
Jack and Kristina welcomed a second son, Harrison, in 1994, a year after their wedding. The boys grew up to be just as handsome as their dad, and Jack often shared photos with them on Instagram. In 2018, he posted a selfie with his boys, writing, “A ‘hang’ day with my boys!! Grateful & sending love to all.” Another snapshot from the same year showcased his deep affection for his sons, with Jack gushing, “Love these guys. Grateful.” Peter, the elder son, has followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing a career in acting with credits including the TV movie Wedding March 2: Resorting to Love.
Jack poses with his sons Peter [L] and Harrison [R] in a 2018 selfie.
Harrison Wagner's Battle With Addiction
In July 2016, Harrison went missing for nearly a week. Jack took to Twitter, reaching out to his fans for support. “I’m going to ask those who want to share their fears, addictions & struggles to do so with me via Twitter. We can face them together, I’ll start,” he wrote. He then shared his fears, saying, “I fear for my youngest son’s safety. Harrison has struggled with drugs & alcohol, just as I did when I was younger. He’s relapsed and has been missing for five days.” Thankfully, Harrison was found, but as an adult, his dad couldn’t force him into rehab. Jack updated his fans, saying, “Harrison’s been in touch. He’s 21 and in charge of his life. Thank you for the love and prayers. Please continue to share your struggles. It helps us all.”
A Family's Heartbreak
Despite the challenges, Harrison appeared happy and close with his family in the months leading up to his death. On May 19, he was seen in photos on his Instagram page alongside his brother and mother at her Southern California ranch. On March 17, Harrison shared a selfie with his dad, captioning it, “Like father, like son.”
Harrison's Legacy: The Harrison Wagner Scholarship Fund
After Harrison's passing, Jack and Kristina created The Harrison Wagner Scholarship Fund at New Life House recovery center. In a heartfelt post on the center’s website, they wrote, “Harrison was a bright, exuberant young man whose smile lit up any room he was in. He has left behind many men and family members who loved him deeply.” They added, “We are heartbroken that he ultimately lost his battle with addiction and we hope that Harrison’s memory will live on through this scholarship, helping other young men get the help they need for their addiction.”
