General Hospital
Blake Berris Steps Into The Role Of Spinelli On General Hospital!
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One of Days of our Lives most memorable performers, Blake Berris (Ex-Nick Fallon), is returning to daytime in a surprising recast. Berris had teased his fans on social media that something was coming that would bring him back to the soaps, but he did not expand on that leading to much speculation.
Now word on Christmas Eve from Soap Opera Digest confirms the rumors that Berris will temporarily step into the role of General Hospital’s Damian Spinelli. The role has always been played by Bradford Anderson.
Apparently due to a scheduling conflict, Anderson was unavailable for the upcoming latest return for Spinelli, so enter the talented Mr. Berris!
Blake will appear in several episodes starting in January on the ABC soap opera.
So, what do you think of Berris taking on the role of Spinelli? Comment below!
It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since Van Hansis made his debut as the recast Lucas Jones on General Hospital. It was back on October 4, 2023 that GH fans got their first look at the former As the World Turns (ex-Luke Snyder) favorite in his new soap role.
Hansis became the fifth actor to play the role of the adoptive son of the late Bobbie Spencer and Tony Jones, and the biological son of the late Julian Jerome and Cheryl Stansbury. Prior to Van, C.J. Thomason (2002–2003), Ben Hogestyn (2005–2006) Ryan Carnes (2004–2005, 2014–2020, 2024) and Matt Trudeau (2020–2021) had played the part.
When Van left daytime after As the World Turns sadly went off the air in 2010, it would be 14 years until he stepped back into the updated frenetic pace and grind of acting on a daily soap opera.
Photo: ABC
LUCAS CAME HOME TO PORT CHARLES
Since Lucas has been back in Port Charles, he fell in love with the late Marco Rios (Adrian Anchondo) who was murdered, moved into a new apartment with his current roommate (soon to be love interest?) Joe Fitzpatrick as played by Jonathan Bennett, has become best buds with the “Britch” Dr. Britt Westbourne (Kelly Thiebaud), and has found himself involved in multiple other storylines. However, now that Van is firmly implanted on GH, might Lucas get a leading storyline of his own? Stay tuned.
In the meantime, to acknowledge his two-year anniversary at General Hospital, Hansis shared via his Instagram a photo montage and some heartfelt “thank you’s’ and words. “Two years ago yesterday, Lucas Jones came home to Port Charles looking a little different. Looking exactly like me.” began Hansis.
“When I took on the role, I was told it would be a heavy recurring for a few months and then we’d see where it goes – being based in NYC at the time, I thought it would be a fun little gig that would bring me back to my old stomping grounds of daytime for a bit.”
Photo: ABC
GENERAL HOSPITAL HAS BEEN LIFE-CHANGING FOR VAN HANSIS
Next, the longtime New York-based actor confirmed he has now moved to Los Angeles as this new chapter of his life has unfolded, and how grateful he is that the show’s writers and producers have continually given more for Lucas to do.
Van explained, “But then they kept writing for me more and I fell in love with Lucas, and everyone around him (in front of and behind the camera). I wanted to stay a while and am so grateful I have. Being a part of GH these last two years has been life changing. Literally. My family and I are Angelenos now, I’ve made incredible new friendships and have been able to revisit old ones.”
The three-time Daytime Emmy-nominated actor concluded with, “Thank you Frank (Valentini, executive producer, GH), thank you Mark (Teschner, casting director, GH), for inviting me to the party. You throw a great one. ”
So, happy to know Van is sticking around General Hospital for some time to come? What has been your favorite Lucas Jones moment over the first two years of Van’s run? Let us know via the comment section below.
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Breaking News
Robert Kelker-Kelly, ‘General Hospital,’ ‘Days of our Lives’ and ‘Another World’ Star Dies at 62
Robert Kelker-Kelly, who became prominent as a one of the leading men in soap operas back in the late 80s and 90s has died at the age of 62. TMZ first reported the news of Robert’s passing on Saturday, October 3 at his home in St. Peters, Missouri.
According to the St. Peters police report, officers responded to call at around 8:16 pm about an unconscious man who was not breathing, as paramedics and other EMS were en route, Kelker-Kelly had reportedly complained of chest pain shortly before becoming unresponsive and the circumstances appeared consistent with a medical event.
Officers and paramedics administered life-saving measures, but were unsuccessful in reviving Kelker-Kelly. The cause of his death is still unknown and under investigation.
Photo: NBC
Daytime fans first saw Robert back in 1987 when he was cast as Sam Fowler on Another World. He played the role for three year suntil 1990. Two years later, he took over the role of Bo Brady on Days of our Lives replacing Peter Reckell, who at that time decided to leave the show.
As Bo, Kelker-Kelly was major in story playing opposite the likes of: Crystal Chappell as Dr. Carly Manning, Kristian Alfonso as Hope Williams and Lisa Rinna as Billie Reed. When Peter Reckell returned to his signature role in 1995, Kelker-Kelly left the show.
Next, Robert returned to his original stomping grounds at Another World but this time as race car driver, Bobby Reno who was actually Dr. Shane Roberts. His second AW stint lasted from 1996-1998.
Photo: ABC
Eventually, the actor would begin his run as the evil Stavros Cassadine on General Hospital in 2001, then make returns in 2002 and 2003. In 2013, he briefly returned as Stavros as part of the show’s 50th anniversary celebration, and made one last appearance in 2014.
Robert has also became a professional pilot full from 2003 to 2015 and had been married to former Days of our Lives star, Miriam Parrish (ex-Jamie Caldwell) from 1997-2011, but the couple divorced in 2011. Since that time, he has not remarried.
Recently, Robert was back in the news when Lisa Rinna talked about her time working with her former Days of our Lives co-star in her recently released memoir, You Better Believe I’m Gonna Talk About It.
Rinna shared on her then on-screen love interest, “Behind the scenes, we hated each other. Remember when Kathy Hilton said I was the biggest bully in Hollywood? Not true. Not even close! I have legit stories about the real bullies in this town. Robert Kelker-Kelly is one of those bullies.”
The former Billie Reed and reality star even punctuated that with, “He made my life a living hell on the set of DAYS, He was horrible to me, I’d go so far as to say verbally abusive. He was passive-aggressive, manipulative and played weird mind games.”
Michael Fairman TV will provide further updates as they become available on the death of Robert Kelker-Kelly.
Now, share your remembrances and condolences on the loss of Robert Kelker-Kelly via the comment section below and let us know of all his daytime roles, which was your favorite.
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Everyone Turns Their Backs on Sonny; Can Anyone Get Chase to Open His Eyes About Willow’s Treachery?
This week on all-new episodes of General Hospital, the ABC soap opera picks right back up with everyone turning their backs on Sonny (Maurice Benard), and now the one person he hoped would be by his side appears to be abandoning ship when Justine (Nazneen Contractor) doesn’t believe him about ordering the beatdown of Sidwell (Carlo Rota) in the latest spoilers video.
Sonny screams at Justine, “Someone is setting me up.” She says, “It’s over!” He proclaims, “I didn’t do it!” Little do they know that it was actually Ava (Maura West) and Drew (Cameron Mathison) who set Sonny up to take the fall for the Pentonville drama that left Curtis (Donnell Turner) with injuries as well.
Then, Lulu (Alexa Havins) is seen using her voice memo app on her phone to record her discussion with Sidwell while he is recovering from his injuries at the hospital. This moment is intercut with Brook Lynn (Amanda Setton) saying, “I wish there was someone who could get Chase (Josh Swickard) to open his eyes about who Willow truly is!”
Next, Willow is seen happily waving while at a table at a Metro Court Gardens, while Chase, Michael (Rory Gibson), Brook Lynn and Ava (Maura West) all receive text messages. Tracy (Jane Elliot) punctuates the promo stating, “That’s the real Willow,” while the words “The world knows” comes across the screen.
Take a look at the official GH spoilers for the week of October 5-9 below.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 5
Sonny challenges Justine. Josslyn takes matters into her own hands. Britt and Willow discuss matters of the heart. Jason is taken to task. Serena finds herself in a bind.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6
Felicia has welcome news for Anna. Brook Lynn confides in Valentin. Hudson tries to talk Josslyn down. Lulu makes a daring play. Willow and Chase discuss his marriage.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7
Carly asks Anna for a favor. Tracy bites her tongue with Gio. Drew and Alexis go at it. Scout tries to broker peace between Danny and Rocco. Lulu pursues a lead.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8
Carly supports Sonny. Lulu’s latest article makes waves. Ava pitches a new target to Drew. Curtis gets a shock. Chase throws down the gauntlet.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9
Britt offers a lifeline. Anna offers her expertise. Sonny reassures Gio. Portia makes her loyalties clear. Dante’s investigation hits a roadblock.
Check out the latest General Hospital promo for the action this week entitled, “The World Knows” below.
Now weigh-in: With everyone disbelieving Sonny, what will be his next move? Will he hit rock bottom, or rise up and fight back and prove his innocence? Will Sonny enlist Jason to get to the bottom of this, even though Jason is out of Sonny’s business? Meanwhile, can this truly be the week that Willow is exposed for her multitude of crimes … or is this all a red herring? Share your thoughts and theories via the comment section below.
Van Hansis Marks Two Years as ‘General Hospital’s’ Dr. Lucas Jones
Robert Kelker-Kelly, ‘General Hospital,’ ‘Days of our Lives’ and ‘Another World’ Star Dies at 62
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Everyone Turns Their Backs on Sonny; Can Anyone Get Chase to Open His Eyes About Willow’s Treachery?
GH’s Kayden Brenna Tokarski Addresses ‘Positivity and Negativity’ That Has Come Her Way as She Embraces Playing Scout Cain
BEYOND THE GATES Preview: Who’s Trying to Silence Hayley?
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I want to say miscast, but will wait to officially pass judgement!
Same here…
I will say it now; NO A THOUSANDS TIMES NO!!
On the contrary! These short term recasts are proving to be very popular. I can’t think of really anyone else with a soap background whe could step into Spinelli’s shoes! Remember Nick was a lovable goofy nerd too until the writers inexplicably made him a psychopath.
Yeah, that is why I am reserving some judgement here… I am not sure I could see anyone take Anderson’s spot, but if anyone can it would be him… we will see!
SO TRUE .HE’S EXPERIENCED ,maybe longer,maxxie shouldn’t be without her child most of the year because B
radford is busy and lives far away
C’mon guys..
The man is only stepping in, not staying..
He is temporary through January, no big deal..
You have a good point. Blake Berris is a great actor. I actually wish they would have casted him in a long-term role instead. I was just having a rough time seeing someone else in the role besides Anderson, but I will give him a chance… like I said if anyone can do it he can!
I think this is actually good news for Brad Anderson. If the writers feel a need for Spinelli’s role so much that they have to cast someone else short-term, I think that says overall, they see Spinelli’s role being key on a long-term basis. Otherwise, they’d write around it. Take it as a good sign for Brad. He’ll be back.
Nothing personal, but not even close!!!
It was so disappointing to see him today at Maxi’s wedding. Andersen should have done this
Did he even study the part before going on. He was nothing like Spinelli. He showed absolutely none of Spinelli’s endearing qualities.
he’s a cutie, just like bradford, but lets keep the original, no recasting, i hate recasting, this guy is cute he could of played someone else on the show he looks like a keeper.
Well at least it’s just temporary. Blake is too handsome for the role and may lack the quirky that makes Spinelli, Spinelli. Nó disrespect to Blake he is an amazing actor having watched him on Days.
Blake Berris…. is in a whole league unto himself
he is a remarkable actor… along with his – extremely – GOOD LOOKS
because I miss him so much @DAYS…
I would welcome him in any capacity
I hope it’s for a long run.
the thing is… is Maxie is just not the same character, of late.
Spinelli oddities with Maxie ditz equaled
I don’t know that it would be acceptable , today.. as it has run its course?
so… seeing a new spin on OOMPH hot me out…. Blake Berris IS back
@GH – keeper
WELL SAID!!
I agree whole heartedly, Blake Berris was one of the best actors ever to be on Days. If even just short termed, I think Blake can pull it off with style.
Now, this is definitely exciting news! And this is definitely a reason to tune in!
Solid No on this. Granted I saw Blake at Nick on DOOL and actually thought he did a great job, but there are some shoes not capable of being filled.
For goodness sake. Why bother recasting for someone who is only on once in awhile?! Just rewrite the script to excuse Spinelli from whatever plot GH had in mind. This is so stupid.
agree, they could of introduce another tech geek, with this actor, surely spinnellii is not the only tech geek in the world.
Maybe there was some sort-of a last-minute scheduling conflict, and they had already wrote the character of Spinelli into their scripts and TPTB didn’t really know if Bradford was going to have a last-minute hick-up so because of time constraints and scheduling constraints, too… they felt they had to find somebody to fill the characters shoes briefly fast.
I’m not saying this is exactly what happened, because I don’t know for sure really, but just a guess / predilection as to why they would need to put somebody else (i.e., Blake Berris) into the role of Spinelli for a short-term stint.
If Bradford Anderson is not available GH should keep Spinelli out of the script til Bradford Anderson IS available.
agree!
GH should just keep Spinelli out of the script til Bradford Anderson is available.
Absolutely agree!! The recast of Jason isn’t working for me either. Jason isn’t Jason!!
There is no one that can play spinelli but Bradford. I understand this but can’t wait for Bradford to return.
Blake Berris is an excellent actor…the best of the best. If Bradford is not available GH could not find a better replacement. I hope GH fans understand the situation and give Blake a break. He is one of the finest actors I’ve seen on Daytime. Remember, Bradford can’t be there. Be kind.
I agree. 100% Agree
I’m always good with anything new and different.
Blake is only temporary through January, but still something different.
And by his picture he looks the part..
((Bradford will alway be Spinelli )
No one can replace Spinnelli
Would love for him to make the character compelling instead of irritating!! Please oh please!
Bradford was on the plane to LA to film several episodes of GH…and got a call from his agent to tell him he landed a recurring role on Homeland which films in NY…so they really had no choice but to recast for Spinelli due to taping deadlines.
How wonderful, will have to watch for his episodes when they air! Spinelli only for me!
Wow! That is so cool for Bradford! Congrats!
blake berris is a phenomenal actor – he should have no problem with portraying the character of spinelli – i am looking forward to his scenes……………..
I am happy with this decision because I get to see Blake again who was outstanding as Nick on DAYS. He is only around temporarily so I can totally understand Bradford not being able to do a spin on GH and Blake filling in for him is ok with me. I am looking forward to seeing Spinelli and Stone Cold and Goddess together again!!!
He is a fine actor. I look forward to seeing him fill in for BA.
no no no no no, only one Spinelli!! I will be ok as long as it is temp. but Bradford IS Spinelli!
I can live with “temporary”.
Bradford Anderson IS Spinelli.
As long as its only a temporary recast I can deal with it, as Bradfod Anderson is Spinelli. Since he wasnt available, I can deal with a short recast.
Do without the character until Bradford can return.
There is no replacement for him!! These writer’s not only changed the show…This isnt “one life to live” thats how that show ended!!! To much long writing with no story…OR dragging something out that leads to nothing …NO one can even fill in for him!!!
I think he works well in that role; Nick was originally a huge nerd when he came to Salem and was with Chelsea- not that either Nick or Spinelli stayed that way, and not that either actor didn’t prove how much more range they possessed than a typecast. But I’m still glad it’s only a few episodes.
COLD SHOWER LOL…WHEN I SEE HIM EVERYTHING I POST WOULD BE CENSORED SO I’LL STOP NOW!!
He could be playing the mailman who cares as long as THAT IS ONSCREEN
I think that as sporadically as Spinelli is used, they should have waited until he was available. There is only one Spinelli
Only one Spinelli! Damn ABC
I agree!!!!
No…there’s only one Spinelli.
As long as it’s temporary!
Acting chops aside, I can’t believe how many posts talk about how “great looking” this guy is. I must be missing something. I guess beauty really IS in the eye of the beholder. His former cast-mates Robert Scott Wilson, Eric Martsolf, and Casey Moss…those are great looking guys. Maybe I’m getting old.
Agree 100%. Handsome is clearly subjective. That said, Blake is a phenomenal actor. Could be a newly discovered Cassidine spawn or, younger Jerome.
Must say I’m happy for Bradford who is definitely a great actor but, also an all around entertainer, singer, musician, comic…love him – soooo glad he is getting other work. GH has been downright abusive to him. No way should Bradford be sitting on the sidelines and goofy one note, never maturing Maxie be without her daughter. Jason is nobody’s P.I. Comeonnnn…
I loved him on days so much but its going to be hard to see him as spinelli I cant imagine anyone else bit Bradford!
Blake the temp Spinelli and Molly was a temp Maxie! xoxo
Good or Bad, I am not judging Blake, but the key word here is::
” TEMPORARY”.
agree temporary PLEASE
NO, NO, NO, and NO.
THERE ARE SOME CHARACTERS YOU CANNOT REPLACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hey..
It’s something new, enjoy it ..
Different is good…. It’s just for some scenes during January ..
No one can replace Bradford SORRY to hear this!
I’m definitely willing to give Blake a chance. I’m always open with all recasts, whether they’re permanent or in this case temporary. They all deserve a chance to get used to the role and get comfortable on a new show, before people start judging them. Of course, that won’t stop some people that can’t help themselves. I don’t watch Days, but I’ve heard nothing but good things about him. Plus he’s easy on the eyes, which is always a plus in my book, lol.
As long as it is only temporary, I’ll enjoy seeing Blake again. No one can really replace Brad Anderson as Spinelli because he is one of a kind. Just sorry he had a scheduling conflict.
Recast was not even necessary and is a dumb idea. No one will even equate the character with Spinelli in a short run to begin with. Just like Stabile was never Nicholas just a random character in a random, would never happen, story with Ava.
If they needed Maxie’s daughter at the wedding they could just have written it as Spinelli was in the middle of something and had Ellie bring her.
Dumb
I think it’s a good move. He’s a great actor. Remember no one wanted anyone but Michael Muhney to play Adam on Y&R but when Justin Hartley took the role we loved him as much as Michael even though they are completely different actors. If Bradford is unwilling to come back or only come back once in awhile then why shouldn’t a great actor that needs the work have the role. Blake is a very capable actor and I’d like to see more of Spinelli. We can fall in love with Blake’s performance too.
I’m Ok with whatever needs to happen. He has such star power, maybe he could be a different character, like Spin’s mentor or go the other direction, his protege and this guy fills in while Spin is out of commission. Or half brother? Speaking of recasts can we please get Nick Stabile back on the screen in 2017?! He was a terrific fill in for TC and thought he brought something special to the show. Loved him with Ava.
How about as a recast Dillon……..
This man is PRETTY! So much eye candy on this show lately.
I think if Blake takes off Bradford is history! I am for this. Spinelli needs to grow up and expand as a character. Bradford has been a one trick pony!
I really miss Blake Berris on Days. He played the villain so well, and he was definitely eye candy. I’ll never forget when he was naked except for a valentine heart covering him. I miss those lips!
I love Blake Berris, and Days hasn’t been the same since he left. Why did he agree to do soaps again if he left Days though? They didn’t have to kill his character then. I have so many questions. Why even bother to recast Spinelli? Why not make Berris a new character, or maybe even another legacy character? I never liked Spinelli that much. Plus, how am I going to deal with Spinelli going from cute to ‘damn he’s hot’ overnight? I hope Maxie will say stuff like, ‘Your time away has done you good,’ lol. Why do they always get Days stars to replace Gh stars temporarily? Well, glad to see Blake.
Keep calm and Enjoy!!! He is wonderful , i hope he stays long term.!wayyyy better with Maxie than old spice opps i meen old Spinelli
I don’t understand the drama. Soaps have been recasting roles with new actors for a long time. Give the guy a chance.
I am excited personally I have never been a Bradford fan.
If this is a couple of episodes ~ no big deal.
Bradford created this character, no one could ever ‘take over ‘ for Spinelli.
Spinelli is a one- in -a-million creation of a most talented, gifted actor and a production and writing team that could use this creation for laughter and later heartbreak in great storytelling.
I just think the way Bradford addresses it was magnificent… he was in the wrong, he took the blame for the inability to fulfill the obligation and as a professional, you can imagine how that must have gone over…not. This is a win win for everyone.. first it takes the pressure off of Bradford and the long standing relationship he maintains with GH and we also have the opportunity to see Blake use his acting chops…. I assume it’s for the Maxie / Nathan wedding and there IS no explanation as to why Spinelli would not be there….
HOWEVER… while we are speaking of Maxie, has anyone noticed it appears she is covering her face again? Hope that rash has not returned …anyone notice that?
Also wouldn’t it be CRAZY if that actress that replaced Maxie for a few months had to take over for the wedding scenes at GH? She and Blake worked together on DOOL… and quite the history!
So the “psycho” for DOOL will be playing our beloved Spinelli….well I wish him luck. 🙂