Soap opera actor Jay Pickett died unexpectedly at the age of 60 while on the set of his upcoming film, Treasure Valley. It was confirmed by the film’s director and producer, Travis Mills.

“Many of you have already heard about the tragedy that happened two days ago. Jay Pickett, our leading man, writer, producer, and creator of this movie passed away suddenly while we were on location preparing to film a scene,” Mills posted yesterday on the film’s Facebook page. “There is no official explanation for the cause of his death but it appears to have been a heart attack. Everyone present tried as hard as they could to keep him alive. Our hearts are broken and we grieve for his family who are so devastated by this shocking tragedy.”

Pickett, who was born February 10, 1961 in Spokane, Washington. He began his acting career in the 1980s with appearances on television series including Rags to Riches and China Beach. He is best known for his work portraying Frank Scanlon on Port Charles, Dr. Chip Lakin on Days of Our Lives, and Detective David Harper on General Hospital.

In addition, Pickett appeared on shows including NCIS: Los Angeles, Queen Sugar, The Mentalist and Rosewood, and starred in TV movies such as Inspired to Kill, 16 and Missing and The Perfect Student.

He is survived by his wife, Elena, and their three children.

(Picture courtesy of Yahoo)