News broke earlier this week that Kelly Monaco, a prominent and beloved figure in the long-running daytime soap opera General Hospital, has been let go from her role as Sam.
The burning question on everyone’s mind is whether the writers will decide to kill off Sam entirely or if they might find a way to keep her present in the storylines, even without Monaco’s involvement. The show’s writing team is undergoing a major shakeup alongside numerous casting changes, indicating that the series is looking to redefine its direction and storytelling approach.
Earlier this year, fans were thrilled to see the return of Steve Burton in his iconic role as Jason Morgan. His onscreen chemistry with Monaco, as they portrayed one of the show’s most enduring couples, has captured the hearts of viewers, and there was a considerable wave of hope among fans that Jason and Sam might reignite their romance.
However, with the announcement of Monaco’s departure, that hopeful reunion seems increasingly unlikely.
One possible avenue for the show’s creators is to explore alternatives if Monaco has indeed moved on from her role. Since 2020, Lindsey Hartley has been filling in for Kelly Monaco periodically, showcasing her ability to step into the role of Sam when needed without completely disrupting the narrative fabric of the show. Hartley’s performance demonstrated her capability to embody the character’s essence, and if Monaco is indeed unable to continue with the show, there lies potential for Hartley to maintain her presence as Sam in forthcoming storylines.
Soap operas are known for their dramatic turns, and one of the most common tropes in this genre is the death-and-resurrection storyline. Therefore, it is not inconceivable that Sam could be written off in a sensational manner, only to be dramatically brought back to life shortly afterward. If so, Hartley could be signed on for the long haul.
What do you think about this change?
