The world of soap operas is known for its ever-changing cast and compelling storylines. “General Hospital,” one of the longest-running American soap operas, is no exception to this rule. In 2024, the show bids farewell to some familiar faces, ushering in a new era of storytelling. In this article, we’ll explore the departures, the impact on the show, and where you can watch “General Hospital” in 2024.
A Brief Introduction to General Hospital
Before we dive into the cast changes, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich history of “General Hospital.” This iconic soap opera first graced our screens on April 1, 1963, making it the longest-running American soap opera in production. Its remarkable achievements include holding the record for the most Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series, with an impressive 14 wins.
Created by Frank and Doris Hursley, the show’s initial setting in an unnamed fictional city within a hospital eventually became the beloved Port Charles, New York, in the 1970s. “General Hospital” has been an integral part of ABC’s television history, with production taking place at The Prospect Studios in Hollywood.
Over the years, the Quartermaine and Spencer families have played central roles in the show’s captivating storylines. Perhaps one of the most iconic moments in soap opera history was the 1981 wedding of the “supercouple” Luke and Laura, which drew an astonishing 30 million viewers and set a record as the highest-rated hour in American soap opera history.
The show’s popularity continued to soar, attracting notable guest stars such as Roseanne Barr, James Franco, and Elizabeth Taylor. In 2007, Time magazine recognized “General Hospital” as one of the “100 Best TV Shows of All-Time.” It also made television history by transitioning to high-definition format in 2009, becoming the first ABC soap opera to do so.
Despite the cancellation of other ABC soap operas like All My Children and One Life to Live, “General Hospital” has endured, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2013 and reaching its 15,000th episode on June 22, 2022.
Farewell to Familiar Faces in 2024
Now, let’s shift our focus to the departures that are reshaping the landscape of “General Hospital” in 2024. Several beloved actors and characters are bidding adieu to the show:
- Kelly Monaco (Sam McCall): Kelly Monaco, renowned for her portrayal of Sam McCall, is taking a temporary break from the series.
- Chloe Lanier (Nelle): Chloe Lanier, who brought the character Nelle to life, has left the show as of January 9, 2024.
- Roger Howarth (Austin Gatlin-Holt): Roger Howarth, who played Austin Gatlin-Holt for 11 years, is saying goodbye to the show.
- Nathanyael Grey (Mason): Nathanyael Grey, known as Mason, is also leaving “General Hospital.”
- Bonnie Borroughs (Gladys Corbin) and Darin Toonder (Dr. Montague): These two actors are departing, making way for fresh storylines and characters.
- Lily Anne Harrison (Andrea Gates): Lily Anne Harrison’s character, Andrea Gates, will exit due to a heartbreaking miscarriage storyline.
- Zakary Risinger (Danny Morgan): Zakary Risinger’s role as Danny Morgan will now be portrayed by Asher Antonyzyn.
These significant cast changes promise exciting new developments and storylines that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. It’s always bittersweet to say goodbye to beloved characters, but it opens the door to fresh and unpredictable narratives in the world of “General Hospital.”
Where to Watch “General Hospital” in 2024
If you’re a devoted fan of “General Hospital” or just getting started, you might be wondering where you can catch all the drama and intrigue in 2024. Fortunately, there are several options:
- DIRECTV: You can stream “General Hospital” on DIRECTV for your viewing pleasure.
- Hulu: Hulu is another platform that offers easy access to the show, allowing you to catch up on all the episodes.
- Google Play Movies and Amazon Video: If you prefer to own the episodes, you can purchase and download them from Google Play Movies or Amazon Video. This gives you the flexibility to enjoy the enduring soap opera at your convenience.
“General Hospital” continues to be accessible for its dedicated audience, ensuring that you won’t miss a moment of the captivating drama, even with the cast changes.
Character |
Actor |
Cynthia Allison | Carolyn Craig |
Jessie Brewer | Emily McLaughlin |
Dr. Phil Brewer | Roy Thinnes |
Angie Costello | Jana Taylor |
Mike Costello | Ralph Manza |
Fred Fleming | Simon Scott |
Janet Fleming | Ruth Phillips |
Dr. Steve Hardy | John Beradino |
Roy Lansing | Robert Clarke |
Priscilla Longworth | Allison Hayes |
Dr. Ken Martin | Hunt Powers |
Peggy Mercer | K. T. Stevens |
Philip Mercer | Neil Hamilton |
Mrs. Weeks | Lenore Kingston |
Al Weeks | Tom Brown |
Eddie Weeks | Craig Curtis |
FAQs About “General Hospital” in 2024
- When did “General Hospital” first air?
- “General Hospital” first aired on April 1, 1963.
- How many Daytime Emmy Awards has the show won?
- The show has won an impressive 14 Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series.
- Who are some notable guest stars on “General Hospital”?
- Notable guest stars include Roseanne Barr, James Franco, and Elizabeth Taylor.
- Which families have been central to the storylines since the late 1970s?
- Since the late 1970s, the Quartermaine and Spencer families have played central roles in the show’s storylines.
- Where can I watch “General Hospital” in 2024?
- You can stream “General Hospital” on DIRECTV, Hulu, or purchase episodes on Google Play Movies or Amazon Video.
In conclusion, “General Hospital” is undergoing significant cast changes in 2024, saying goodbye to some beloved characters while welcoming fresh faces. The show’s enduring popularity and compelling storytelling continue to captivate audiences, and you can catch all the action on various platforms. So, whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, there’s never been a better time to immerse yourself in the world of “General Hospital.”