Kelly Monaco and ‘General Hospital’ are parting ways, but some fans aren’t ready to let go

Kelly Monaco and 'General Hospital' are parting ways, but some fans aren't ready to let go

As a film enthusiast with over two decades of watching and analyzing soap operas, I must say the news about Kelly Monaco’s departure from “General Hospital” has left me feeling a mix of sadness and frustration. Having grown up with Sam McCall as one of my favorite characters, it is disheartening to see such a talented actress and beloved figure in the soap opera world being written off after more than 20 years.


“Kelly Monaco, a long-standing star on ‘General Hospital’, is set to depart the show this autumn, a decision that has sparked controversy among some online fans, who view it as an act of disregard.”

On Tuesday, The Times verified that actress Monaco, who has played Sam McCall since 2003, will depart the series following her character’s departure from the storyline. Soap Opera Network announced on Monday that Monaco is leaving the show, revealing that she was taken aback by the decision and felt blindsided.

Monaco’s tenure at Monaco’s “General Hospital” exceeds two decades and includes over 2,200 episodes filled with typical soap opera surprises. She has earned two Daytime Emmy nominations during her time with the “General Hospital” brand, one of which was for her role in the spin-off series “Port Charles,” portraying a distinct character.

With word of Kelly Monaco’s departure from “General Hospital” circulating online, fans reminisced about her notable scenes, particularly her on-screen romance with Steve Burton’s character Jason Morgan and a poignant scene with the late Sonya Eddy. Fan tributes also incorporated hashtags such as “#NoKellyNoGH” and “#IStandWithKelly,” and they urged “General Hospital” to maintain Monaco on the series.

“On Monday, a fan expressed their frustration by saying, ‘The lack of respect shown towards Kelly Monaco’s character in Port Charles, and many other female characters, is absurdly unjust. The way the writers have been handling Sam’s character is disappointing, and it’s time to correct this.’ “

1. “Another fan stated they are very certain that #gh is nearing its end, having just taken its final step towards oblivion.” Regarding Kelly Monaco’s dismissal after 21 years, the underutilization of her character and untapped talent is appalling conduct.

A large number of supporters started a Change.org petition in response to their admiration for Monaco, aiming to keep her on “GH”. This petition has gathered over 1,400 signatures since it was initiated on Monday.

“This petition asks you to join thousands of General Hospital supporters in safeguarding a significant piece of the show’s past. It’s high time we honor the commitment and emotional involvement of viewers who have invested their time and affection into the character and actress.”

Despite a continuous stream of internet pleas for “General Hospital” to reevaluate their choice, one user on the platform encouraged fans to keep the broader context in mind.

“It’s irrational for fans to demand the cancellation of General Hospital (GH) just because Kelly Monaco was fired. It doesn’t make any sense to jeopardize employment for thousands of people over the dismissal of a favorite actor. This is likely why decision-makers at these shows don’t take fan opinions too lightly.”

1) In response to The Times’ inquiry, neither ABC (who airs “General Hospital”) nor their representative from Monaco returned comments.

At the recent “General Hospital” fan gathering in Glendale, Monaco has yet to publicly comment on her departure and the subsequent online uproar. Back in 2023, she shared with Soap Opera Digest that “General Hospital” feels like a second home to her, given its illustrious history of 20 years.

She added: “Every day when I drive to the lot, I am just so honored to be part of it.”

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2024-08-27 22:01

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