Kelly Monaco bids farewell to ‘General Hospital’ after two decades
A legacy in Port Charles
Kelly Monaco, a beloved figure in the world of daytime television, is set to leave “General Hospital” this fall. After more than two decades of portraying the dynamic character Sam McCall, Monaco’s departure marks the end of an era for the ABC soap opera.
The journey of Sam McCall
Monaco’s journey with “General Hospital” began in 2003, following her stint on the soap’s spinoff series, “Port Charles”. On ”Port Charles,” she played Livvie Locke from 2000 to 2003. Her transition to “General Hospital” introduced viewers to Sam McCall, a con artist with a complex backstory. Sam is the biological daughter of mob boss Julian Jerome and attorney Alexis Davis, and was illegally adopted by Cody and Evelyn McCall.
Over the years, Monaco has brought depth and nuance to Sam, making her a fan favorite. Her portrayal earned her a Daytime Emmy nomination in 2006, a testament to her talent and dedication.
A prolific career
Throughout her tenure on “General Hospital,” Monaco has appeared in over 2,200 episodes. Her character has been central to many of the show’s most gripping storylines, from dramatic family revelations to intense romantic entanglements.
In August 2020, Lindsay Hartley temporarily stepped into the role of Sam while Monaco was on leave. Hartley reprised the role again in February 2020 and for several episodes in January and August of this year, showcasing the character’s enduring appeal.
The return of familiar faces
Monaco’s exit coincides with the return of several “General Hospital” veterans. Jonathan Jackson recently returned as Lucky Spencer, rejoining the long-running soap opera. Additionally, Emma Samms is set to reprise her role as Holly Sutton in early September, a return that ties in with Jackson’s.
These returns highlight the show’s ability to weave together past and present storylines, creating a rich tapestry that keeps viewers engaged.
Reflecting on Monaco’s impact
For fans of “General Hospital,” Monaco’s departure is bittersweet. Her portrayal of Sam McCall has been a cornerstone of the show, and her absence will undoubtedly be felt. However, her legacy will live on through the countless episodes and memorable moments she has given to the series.
As we bid farewell to Kelly Monaco, it’s worth revisiting some of her most iconic scenes and storylines. From her early days as a con artist to her evolution into a beloved character, Monaco’s journey on “General Hospital” is a testament to her talent and dedication.
For those who want to relive some of Sam McCall’s most memorable moments, you can find trailers and information on the character’s journey here.
A new chapter
While Monaco’s departure marks the end of an era, it also opens the door for new storylines and characters to emerge. “General Hospital” has a long history of reinvention, and fans can look forward to seeing how the show evolves in the coming months.
For now, we celebrate Kelly Monaco’s incredible contribution to daytime television and wish her all the best in her future endeavors. Her impact on “General Hospital” and its fans will not be forgotten.
For more updates on your favorite TV shows and movies, stay tuned. And for those who want to dive deeper into the world of “General Hospital,” don’t forget to check out the latest trailers and information here.