Scott Bryce — the 1975 Staples High School graduate, and longtime Weston resident best known to daytime television viewers as Craig Montgomery on CBS’s “As the World Turns” — died Sunday at Yale New Haven Hospital, after an aggressive battle with stomach and esophageal cancer. He was 68.
His death drew an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues who recalled his professionalism, charisma and humor.
Born in New York City, Bryce came by his love of acting honestly. Soap opera was already in his blood. His father, Ed Bryce, was a daytime veteran who played Bill Bauer on “Guiding Light” for over 2 decades, while his mother, Dorothy Bryce, was an actress who appeared on daytime serials including “The Doctors,” plus other prime time and commercial work.
Scott Bryce
Scott followed in his parents’ footsteps, appearing in 280 episodes of “As the World Turns” across the 1980s until 2008.
His performance as the scheming, seductive Craig Montgomery earned him 2 Daytime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.
Bryce ranged widely. He was daytime TV’s most notorious antihero, a network sitcom husband, a movie villain, and a familiar face on prestige dramas.
His work ranged from “The Golden Girls,” to appearing in the first episode of “Sex and the City,” to “Lethal Weapon 3,” and what Scott mentioned as the most fun of his career,“ Up Close and Personal.”
That adaptability carried him from soap opera scheming to sketch comedy to hourlong drama, without ever settling into a single type. His rare durability kept him working steadily for over 50 years.
Scott was also a devoted husband, father, mentor, and friend to those closest to him.
He stayed deeply connected to his co-stars and fellow Staples Players. They, together with his loving family, were of great comfort in his last weeks.
His obituary says, “Scott is remembered as a gifted performer and an even better man whose warmth extended well beyond the screen. He was every bit as funny, charismatic and quick-witted in real life as he was on screen, bringing laughter and joy to those fortunate enough to know him.”
He is survived by his wife, Jodi Stevens; their son, Jackson Bryce; Scott’s brothers David and Phil; his nephew David, and niece Heather.
A celebration of life will be held in late September.
His obituary concludes: “’All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.’ Scott played his part beautifully — may the light, laughter and love he brought into the world forever live on.”
He was such a nice guy. Very friendly. Knew him when I worked with the head writer, Douglas Marland. He will be missed.
Scott was a wonderful human being and a great, dear friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Scott’s passing!! My sisters and I have known him since childhood and I’ll never forget meeting him for the first time when I was in 6th grade. My sisters who were in high school at the time threw an impromptu jam session and he brought and played his drums which I thought was the coolest thing. Scott was always so kind and friendly and down to earth. As an actress myself, his support and words of encouragement meant the world to me, even if we hadn’t seen each other in years, he always remembered me and had something positive to say when we’d run into each other in town. I’m heartbroken for his beautiful family. He left the world too soon!! RIP, Scott. It was such a pleasure knowing you, friend.
Scott lived down the block and we had great discussions over war and peace. Extremely smart and humorous he was a great neighbor and friend. I will miss him.
Always a favorite!
I just saw a Scott’s obituary. I met Scott at the University of Bridgeport in 1976 or 77. While he wasn’t a student there he performed in some productions in the drama department and we became friends as fellow actors do. I had tremendous respect for Scott’s depth of talent and always knew he would be successful. We didn’t stay in touch but every time I saw him in a tv show or movie I always smiled knowing he did indeed make it in this crazy business.
I am saddened by Scott’s passing. We are the same age which always puts life in a different perspective. While I never met his wife or son, my heart is heavy for their loss. May your many memories of Scott be a blessing. My thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences are with you at this very difficult time.
Rest in peace my friend.
Sincerely,
Mark Conley