General Hospital star Rena Sofer, 56, reveals why she is leaving Los Angeles after 35 years

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A beloved General Hospital star has said goodbye to Los Angeles for a new life on the East Coast. 

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase it this way: Last year, I, a 56-year-old actress, made a triumphant return to the beloved daytime drama, stepping back into the shoes of Lois Cerullo, the co-founder of L&B Music. In an intimate social media video, I shared our decision to bid farewell to the City of Angels after over three decades.

After nearly 35 years in Los Angeles, it’s now time for me (Rena Sofer) and Sanford Bookstaver to move on.

In the video, the duo posed outside their old house and bid farewell, saying, “So long, Hollywood. Headed to New York.

Sofer then broke into song, crooning a few bars from Billy Joel’s 1976 hit New York State of Mind. 

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I often find myself craving a change of scenery and a break from the familiar. Instead of jetting off to exotic locales like Miami Beach or Hollywood, I prefer to hop on a Greyhound bus along the Hudson River Line for my holiday getaway.

Bookstaver, 51, completed the verse, singing, ‘I’m in a New York state of mind.’

As a dedicated admirer, I can’t help but exclaim that there’s no one more fitting than the legendary Billy Joel to craft the ideal symphony for our dreams! This is my humble opinion, expressed alongside the shared video.

Indeed, I’ve been feeling quite emotional lately. You see, I found love, had my kids, and built a wonderful life in Los Angeles – meeting the man of my dreams and creating unforgettable memories there.

Sofer’s eldest daughter, Avalon (age 20), is studying film at Northwestern University with Bookstaver, while his younger daughter, Rosabel Rosalind (approximately 28 years old), comes from his marriage to former GH co-star Wally Kurth (67 years old).

In May 2024, seven years following their divorce, the winner of the Soap Opera Digest Award and Bookstaver celebrated their second union – a milestone that coincided with what should have been their 21st wedding anniversary.

She shared that her business endeavors brought her tremendous success, and in the process, she formed lasting friendships that she’ll deeply miss.

The devoted animal savior expressed gratitude towards Los Angeles, saying “Thank you, LA, for being who you are.” He then looked forward to more peaceful and tranquil moments by stating, “Now, onto quieter and calmer times.

As an absolutely smitten admirer, I’d put it this way: “Who else but a leaf blower could bring the finale to this clip? There’s simply no one more fantastic!

‘ Now we are off in our @rivianofficial with our 5 dogs in the back to our new life!!!’ 

As a devoted fan, I can confirm that there has been no discussion about Sofer departing from General Hospital, as reported by a source to E! News on Thursday. However, details regarding any changes in her role or her future endeavors beyond the show remain undisclosed.

It’s not just Sofer who has decided to relocate; in July, Kirsten Storms, known for her role as Maxie Hunter in the soap opera, also moved to Tennessee.

She expressed her gratitude in a social media post, stating that GH, the ABC network executives, and the writers have graciously allowed her some time. She’s immensely thankful because they seem to comprehend and support her request.

Sofia Mattson who played Sasha Gilmore for seven years, left the show in July.  

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2025-08-08 22:20