Viewers noticed that Sam McCall‘s character has been replaced in General Hospital‘s recent episode aired on August 22. Kelly Monaco has portrayed Sam in almost all seasons, though there have been several instances of temporary recasting. Currently, Lindsay Hartley has replaced Monaco, making fans wonder if it’s still a temporary recasting or permanent.
So, here’s everything you need to know about Sam’s recasting and whether Monaco will return or not.
Why has Lindsay Hartley replaced Kelly Monaco as Sam McCall in General Hospital?
Lindsay Hartley has likely temporarily replaced Monaco’s Sam in General Hospital. The reason behind Monaco’s absence is yet to be known. General Hospital fans are familiar with Hartley, who usually fills in for Monaco’s role in her short leave of absence. The current episode marks the fourth time Hartley will be portraying Sam, with the last time being earlier this year.
In January, she was specifically recruited for a single episode. As per TV line, Monaco wasn’t keeping well at that time; thus, the Days of Our Lives actress took over. This report came right after several characters like Joss and Maxie were replaced temporarily.
A new actor taking over a regular’s role is quite normal in General Hospital. Usually, the regulars could be absent from their role due to health or personal reasons. For instance, Eden McCoy, who plays Joss, was replaced by Courtney Fulk, as he took a break to process his mother’s loss.
Nevertheless, ABC hasn’t confirmed the permanent recasting of Monaco’s Sam; thus, it can be considered that she is temporarily replaced and could be back soon.
When will Kelly Monaco return as Sam McCall in General Hospital?
Currently, it’s unclear when Monaco will return to portray McCall in General Hospital.
In the past, Hartley has likely portrayed Sam for a week or even a single episode until Monaco’s return. However, this time it’s unknown if the Dancing with the Stars actress will return shortly or is on an extended leave of absence. The audience will have to wait for the upcoming episodes to know.
