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General Hospital saw a wave of key departures from the ABC soap opera in 2025. These included both heartbreaking actor deaths and character exits due to contractual issues and recasting. 

Arguably the most poignant loss was the passing of Leslie Charleson, who had portrayed the character Monica Quartermain for almost 50 years. Charleson's passing led to the introduction of her character's long-lost sister, Ronnie Bard, played by One Life to Live's Erika Slazak. Denise Alexander, who first appeared on General Hospital 60 years ago as Leslie Webber, also passed away, with the soap planning to address her character's death in spring 2026. Sadly, Tristan Rogers, who played Robert Scorpio, also passed away in 2025. His death is also set to be addressed in spring 2026.

In terms of character exits, Jeff Kober's character, Cyrus Renault, was killed off in February 2025, followed by Eva La Rue's character Natalia Ramirez in July. Other significant departures include Rena Sofer's character Lois Cerullo and Sofia Mattsson as Sasha Gilmore. 

The show also underwent several critical recasts, most notably Michael Corinthos, previously played by Chad Duell and now portrayed by Y&R alum Rory Gibson. Maxie Jones, formerly played by Kirsten Storms, was recast for a few episodes before going into a coma, with Storms set to return in early 2026. 

One major recast was the swapping of WSB Chief Jack Brennan, originally played by Charles Major and then taken over by One Life to Live alumnus Chris McKenna. However, there's speculation that McKenna may also exit in 2026.

This episode was hosted by Belynda Gates-Turner for the #1 Soap Opera Channel, Soap Dirt.

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