Johnny Wactor’s Ex-Fiancee Still Wears Her Engagement Ring
Johnny Wactor. Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images
Johnny Wactor's former fiancée Tessa Farrell shared in a recent interview that she still holds onto a special memory of him. They met in 2013 and were together until the late 2010s. Farrell mentioned that she continues to wear the ring they used for their engagement ceremony.
Farrell shared with ET’s Kevin Frazier that instead of buying a new engagement ring with her fiancé Wactor, they chose to use a ring that was already special to her. This particular piece of jewelry had originally belonged to Farrell's grandparents, who had been married for more than 50 years.
The actress described the moment as beautiful and explained that she had worn the ring before and will continue to wear it because it symbolizes true or everlasting love to her. Despite the ring now holding another meaning due to recent events, Farrell expressed gratitude for still having it and the memories it holds of her fiancé.
Wactor, who was famous for his role as Brando Corbin in General Hospital, tragically passed away on Saturday, May 25. He was killed during a car theft in Los Angeles at the age of 37.
Upon receiving the heartbreaking news in a phone call from a mutual friend on Saturday, Farrell was left feeling shocked by the sudden loss.
She was wondering, "Where was he shot? Where is he now? I want to see him or help." But she wasn't told initially where he was shot. She was only told that he didn't survive. At that moment, there was nothing anyone could say or do to change the outcome.
On Monday, May 27, Farrell posted a heartfelt video on Instagram, speaking directly to those who were involved in Wactor's passing.
"I just want to say, if the person who did this is watching, I want to tell you that you made a mistake. You can find a real job, I know the job market is tough, but we are all in this together. There is no need to steal or take a life for it. Human life should not be taken lightly."
Farrell also had a message for Wactor, expressing, "I want you to know that I love you very much and I am proud of the person you have become. You have faced many challenges and you have always inspired me in my work. I wouldn't be where I am today without the lessons you taught me. Thank you, Johnny. I love you and miss you. I hope your last moments were peaceful, and I am grateful that someone was there with you."
Grant Wactor, the actor's brother, shared with the Daily Mail that his brother was shot while trying to defend a coworker from armed car thieves who were trying to steal his catalytic converter.
According to Grant, his brother had recently completed a bartending shift and was walking with a female coworker when he noticed the men gathering around his car.
Grant explained that as Southern natives, they have a strong sense of looking out for others. When they saw a female walking alone to her car, they couldn't just ignore it. Grant recalled the moment when a man approached them thinking his truck was being towed, asking, "Hey, are you towing?"
Wactor, realizing the situation, immediately stepped in to protect his coworker from the attackers. Grant praised Wactor for his quick thinking and bravery in the face of danger.
“And then once he turned around, he saw what was happening and he put his coworker behind him. And that’s when they shot him,” the actor’s brother told the Mail.
Editor's P/S:
The tragic loss of Johnny Wactor has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and beyond. His former fiancée, Tessa Farrell, has shared her heartbreak and cherished memories of their time together, keeping the ring that symbolized their love close to her. Wactor's brother, Grant, has shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death, highlighting his selflessness and bravery in defending others. This senseless act of violence has left an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.
Wactor's legacy as a talented actor and a compassionate individual will live on. His willingness to stand up for what was right, even at great personal risk, serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the value of human life. As Farrell said, "Human life should not be taken lightly." The outpouring of grief and support from fans, friends, and family is a testament to the impact Wactor had on the world during his time.