Kelly Monaco, widely recognized for her role in ‘Baywatch,’ is set to bid adieu to the long-running television series ‘General Hospital’ after more than two decades of captivating audiences. As reported by Variety, Monaco has been a cornerstone of the soap opera, portraying the complex and multi-dimensional character of Sam McCall.
‘General Hospital,’ the beloved series brought to life by the husband-and-wife writing duo Frank and Doris Hursley, initially placed its narrative within a hospital setting in an unnamed fictional city. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the city was christened as Port Charles, New York. The show first premiered in 1963, featuring iconic stars John Beradino and Emily McLaughlin, both of whom remained with the show until their respective deaths in the 1990s.
Monaco’s journey with ‘General Hospital’ began in 2003 after her stint on the spin-off series ‘Port Charles,’ where she played Livvie Locke from 2000 to 2003. On ‘General Hospital,’ her character, Sam McCall, was introduced as a con artist with a complicated past and a quest for redemption. The character’s backstory included being the biological daughter of mob boss Julian Jerome, played by William deVry, and attorney Alexis Davis, portrayed by Nancy Lee Grahn. Additionally, she was the adoptive daughter of Cody McCall (Stanley Kamel) and Evelyn Bass, further enriching her complex narrative. Over her extensive tenure, Monaco appeared in more than 2,200 episodes, a testament to her enduring presence and impact on the show.
Monaco’s contribution to ‘General Hospital’ was recognized with a Daytime Emmy Award in 2006, cementing her as a fan favorite and a critical success. Her portrayal of Sam McCall captivated audiences with its depth and relatability. In August 2020, due to unforeseen circumstances, Monaco was temporarily replaced by Lindsay Hartley, who ably stepped into the role for a brief period. Hartley returned for several episodes in February 2020, maintaining continuity for dedicated viewers.
The timing of Monaco’s exit coincides with the return of several ‘General Hospital’ veterans, signaling a period of nostalgic resonance for long-time fans.
. Notably, Jonathan Jackson is reprising his role as Lucky Spencer, and Emma Samms is set to return as Holly Sutton in early September. These returning stalwarts are sure to bring a wave of excitement and anticipation to the show’s storyline.
Before her landmark role on ‘General Hospital,’ Monaco first gained widespread recognition as a cast member of ‘Baywatch’ from 1997 to 1998. During her time on the show, she portrayed the character Susan and occasionally served as Carmen Electra’s swimming double, as Electra was not proficient in swimming. Monaco’s versatility was also showcased in minor roles in late 1990s films such as ‘Idle Hands’ and ‘Mumford.’ Her talent was evident and her career continued to flourish when she received a Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role in ‘Port Charles’ in 2003.
Monaco’s departure from ‘General Hospital’ marks the end of a significant era for the show and its viewers. Her portrayal of Sam McCall has left an indelible mark on the series, contributing to its rich history and cultural impact. Fans and colleagues alike will undoubtedly cherish the memories and moments she brought to life on screen.
As the soap opera moves forward, it does so with a nod to its past and an eye on the future. Monaco’s exit, along with the return of beloved characters, underscores the show’s ability to evolve while honoring its legacy. ‘General Hospital’ continues to be a staple of daytime television, with its intricate storylines and beloved characters weaving a tapestry that has entertained multiple generations.
Monaco’s career, marked by versatility and dedication, sets a high bar for excellence in the industry. Whether through her early days on ‘Baywatch,’ her acclaimed work in ‘Port Charles,’ or her long-standing role on ‘General Hospital,’ her contributions have been significant and enduring. As she moves on to new endeavors, fans eagerly await what the future holds for Kelly Monaco, an actress who has truly made her mark in the world of television.
