General Hospital
GH’s Adam J. Harrington on Being a Recast John “Jagger” Cates: “There is No Way I Can Even Touch What Antonio Sabato Jr. Did With the Role in the Past … If They Are Going My Way They Were Going to Take This in a Different Direction”
General Hospital fans were recently in for a shock when a new man arrived in Port Charles who went by the name of John Cates. As it turns out John Cates used to go by the nickname of “Jagger” and had lived in the town many years ago.
That’s because actor Adam Harrington was recast in the role of FBI Cates. The part was originally made soap-famous in the 90’s by Antonio Sabato Jr. “Jagger” appeared on the ABC daytime drama series from 1992-1994 and then in its spinoff GH: Night Shift in 2008 before the character left Port Charles with his young autistic son. “Jagger” was also the older brother to the late Stone Cates (Michael Sutton).
Now in 2024, GH has brought the character back and Adam J. Harrington is on contract with the series. The actor spoke to Soap Opera Digest about the obvious difference in look and take on the role than “Jagger’s” original portrayer, Antonio Sabato Jr.
Photo: ABC
Adam expressed: “My take on it was that it’s been 30 years; they obviously wanted to take this in a new direction and see what they could do with this storyline. And I also thought, ‘There is no way I can even touch what Antonio Sabato, Jr. did with the role in the past.’ Although I know it would be jarring for fans, in some ways, I was very happy that I didn’t look like I was going to try to mimic or echo at all what they had done with that storyline.”
Chiming in on replacing an actor in a role made soap-famous by someone else, Harrington added, “Obviously, if they’re going my way, they were going to take this in a different direction with so much time having passed. TV is immortal and still very much fresh in people’s minds, but like I said, I took the recasting and looking so obviously different as them saying, ‘Okay, we’re going to take this in a different direction and we are not trying to replace or touch what was originally a beautiful story.”’
Previously, Sabato Jr. had a few things to say about not being asked back to reprise his signature role for more than 30 years by the ABC soap opera.
Photo: ABC
As to just who this new version of John Cates will be romantically linked with, fans are seeing a spark between he and Jordan (Tanisha Harper), or could he wind up with Anna (Finola Hughes), or another lady on the canvas? “I think there is an element here of him coming to town, throwing a new guy into the mix,” Harrington shares.”We’ll see who he quote-unquote bonds with and who he doesn’t.”
Photo: ABC
So what do you think of the recast John “Jagger” Cates? Do you like where the show is taking the character? Do you appreciate Adam’s candor on acknowledging what Antonio Sabato Jr. did with this role in the past? Comment below.
I really like what gh is doing have watched show since day one can’t wait for Steve burton to come back
Been watching GH for 55 years. Excited that Steve Burton is finally returning as Jason. Don’t like the “New” Jagger at all!!!! Please bring back the “Original” Jagger, period!!!!! You brought back “Lois” love, love, love that she’s back!! Please bring back the great characters from the long ago.
Antonio is a nut case and a MAGA. Pls, he can’t act. This guy can act and is charismatic. Plus, he’s sane!
I rather see the original cast and not replace a character from 30 years ago with someone new. It makes no since. I prefer Antonia to return or don’t replace with someone else ..
I agree.
I really like this guy! He has such an impressive reume so I give him a lot of credit for being willing to try daytime. He talks very respectfully of it and kudos to him for doing his research into the character.He seems very aware that his look is very different for the part and aknowledges that it may be a bit jarring for fans. A very aware actor!
I just hope he will not be a casualty of the new writers as he has great potential.
Tarzan or surfer boy ? Can decide the vibe
The only vibe I’m getting from the recast is “younger version of Cyrus the Virus”.
At least in terms of his looks, if not his occupation.
And knowing how Cyrus has been on this kick lately (despite his claims of being “redeemed” by the blood of my old friend JC and all) of wanting to be loved and respected by the people of Port Charles just like Sonny is…. wouldn’t it be an ironic twist if one of Sonny’ s best friends ever – Stone Cates – turned out to be Cyrus’s son. Because if Jagger (or John, as he now prefers to be called) is the son of Cyrus, Stone probably would be as well.
And of course, Robin Scorpio knew both Stone & Jagger as well, which Cyrus might try to use to his advanatage in dealing with the current police commissoner & district attorney, who just happen to be Robin’s parents.
I get a Tarzan or surfer boy vibe with the recast
Personally, I wish they would have just brought him on as a new character vs recast with a Keith Urban doppelganger… it’s just going to take a while to get used to seeing his face on screen and being called ‘Jagger’ because that was such an iconic role/look with Antonio.
It’s been 30 years since Jagger Cates was a regular character on GH. I know my life has changed in 30 years. There is no reason why a fictional character cannot have changed, grown, developed over the last 3 decades. Congratulations to Adam Harrington. I’m sure you will make John Cates your very own.
I don’t mind the recast at all because that’s what soap operas do. Adam J Harrington has this look about him different from anybody else on the show I love it. Blonde hair blue eyes and tan oh my God he’s a beautiful man
At first I was disappointed that it wasn’t Antonio but I know that ship has sailed so I think they did well in casting a whole different vibe. John had scenes with Sonny and they were excellent! Thats when the new actor won me over!
Absolutely NOT. This guy does NOT have the same physical attributes as Jagger’s previous portrayer. He does NOT have dark hair and dark eyes nor does he have the build of Sabato. He looks nothing like Stone.
He does not have to look like another actor to play the part. Look how many Carlys they’ve had, some dark haired and some blonde.
I remember when Blair was Asian and replaced by a blonde Caucasian.
That is so funny! Are you serious? The whole idea sounds ludicrous.
Well, no disrespect to the new Jagger…but this was a horrible recast! Now the new Jagger is a very attractive man but.. there is no comparrison to him and Antonio Sabato Jr. No comparisson.Why does GH do stupid stuff like this?!? If you gonna bring a character back bring back the original! Antonio was willing to return GH just did not ask him. WHY?!? WAS HE A PROBLEM ON SET?!? WHAT? MAKE IT MAKE SENSE! I DON’T UNDERSTAND ! JAGGER WAS ETHNIC WITH DARK HAIR AND FEATURES. THE RECAST IS WHITE WITH BLUE EYES! WHAT THE HELL?!? WOMEN AND SOME MEN LOVED ANTONIO, WHO IS STILL A HANDSOME VIBRANT MAN. WHAT THE HELL GH?!? Help us understand this completely crazy recast!
Speaking of crazy, have you seen Antonio lately? Even he doesn’t look like Jagger anymore. And he’s also gone off the deep end- there’s a reason why he’s not finding work in the industry these days. I do wish you’d calm down. The all caps aren’t a good look and suggests that you are screaming.
Missing the “Real” Jagger Cates. Not thrilled with the “Ken doll” version !!!
I am thrilled with new Jagger! very intense and great chemistry with Anna and Jordan. He conveys the character’s disdain for Sonny very well.
The storyline with John “Jagger” Cates is fine I don’t like that they didn’t keep the original look or bring back Antonio to play the part! First of all this guy doesn’t fit Jagger at all! He is Blonde! My understanding Jagger and Stone had dark hair! And I don’t like it! I get He angry with Sonny so it’s clouding his investigation! Now that Pikeman case is over he is trying his best to bring down Sonny with Ava’s assistance of all people come on writers please do better!
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
This week on all-new episodes of General Hospital, new and old motivations come into play with dangerous consequences. According to the just released GH video spoilers video for the week of August 3-7, a bailiff calls out, “All rise!”
Now it’s Isaiah (Sawandi Wilson) vs. Curtis (Donnell Turner), as the surgeon is suing the owner of the Savoy for assault that ruined is ability to operate. At the end of the day, which of these men has enough evidence against the other? Portia (Brook Kerr) is by Isaiah’s side, while Jordan (Tanisha Harper) is with Curtis.
Next, Lucy (Lynn Herring) has a plan to get the controlling shares of Deception away from Michael (Rory Gibson). She wants her daughter, Serena (Kelly Kruger) to seduce Michael. She tells her, “Pick out your most seductive suit.” Soon, we see Serena in her bathing suit at the Metro Court face to face with Michael.
Later, there is a small baggie containing three blue pills. Nina (Cynthia Watros) ask Willow (Katelyn MacMullen), “What did you do?” We also see Michael asking the same thing of Jacinda (Paige Herschell). Leading into this week, viewers know that Willow doesn’t want the former escort anywhere near her children, Amelia and Wiley. Is this how she stops her, or is Jacinda up to old tricks and wants to frame Willow? Remember when Jacindsa drugged Drew (Cameron Mathison)? Stay tuned.
Finally, in the pick-up from last Friday’s cliffhanger, an emotional Jason (Steve Burton) continues to tell Sonny (Maurice Benard) that he cannot work for him anymore. Sonny ask, “So that’s it? You’re Out?” We fade to black.
Take a look at the official GH spoilers for the week below.
MONDAY, AUGUST 3
Jason makes a sacrifice for Danny. Elizabeth becomes privy to a secret. Carly is touched. Valentin has a warning for Nina. Josslyn cautions Brennan.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4
Brook Lynn and Chase celebrate a milestone. Trina gets an earful. Carly’s plan backfires. Curtis is skeptical. Michael is anxious about his family’s’ future.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5
Sonny wants answers. Ava is struck with inspiration. Curtis’ trial begins. Brook Lynn wrestles with a big decision. Lucy and Serena scheme.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 6
Sonny makes a stunning announcement. Serena makes her move. Willow faces a new threat. Isaiah takes the stand. Lucy questions Laura.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
Josslyn is taken aback. Ava courts a new ally. Jordan and Anna catch up. Isaiah vents to Lucas and Elizabeth. Michael questions Jacinda.
Check out the latest ABC promo for General Hospital entitled, “What Did You Do?” below.
Now weigh-in: Do you think GH is about to pair Serena with Michael? Is it curtains for Jacinda? Can anyone stop Willow once and for all, or make her pay for her crimes? What will Jason do without Sonny and the mob? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
General Hospital Fan Club Weekend brought out many of your favorites to the four day event; with the main cast gathering on Saturday, August 1. Fans near and far attended the weekend held this year at the Burbank Marriott Hotel. Whether it be the main cast event or the smaller more intimate events featuring two or three cast members a great time was had by all.
Some of the cast participating in the main cast event included: Cyrus Hobbi (Yuri), Gary James Fuller (James), Bradford Anderson (Spinelli), Viron Weaver (Wiley), Paige Herschell (Jacinda), Chris McKenna (Brennan), Josh Kelly (Cody), Kayden Brenna Tokarsi (Scout), Cassandra James (Terry), Laura Wright (Carly), Dominic Zamprogna (Dante), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane), Rick Hearst (Ric), Adrian Anchondo (ex-Marco), and Chloe Lanier (ex-Nelle).
In addition to, Van Hansis (Lucas), Cameron Mathison (Drew), Ryan Paevey (ex-Cassius), Easton Rocket Sweda (Leo), Maurice Benard (Sonny), Kristen Vaganos (Molly), Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis), Kate Mansi (ex-Kristina), Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth), Cynthia Watros (Nina), Kristina Wagner (Felicia) and more.
Take a look at some of the snaps from the main event arrivals below:
Photo: HutchinsPhoroi
GH’s Rick Hearst with on-screen daughter, Kristen Vaganos, plus Nancy Lee Grahn, and Kate Mansi.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
GH’s Maurice Benard on-hand to meet the fans.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto.com
Jack Brennan in the house … Chris McKenna.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Adrian Anchondo, Van Hansis and Anchondo’s boyfriend, Days of Our Lives, Colton Little.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
GH’s Josh Kelly and his gal, the former Nelle Benson of Port Charles, Chloe Lanier.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Who is James’ father? Not Cassius or Spinelli, actually. Actors Gary James Fuller, Ryan Paevey and Bradford Anderson!
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
One of General Hospital’s newest cast members, Kayden Brenna Tokarski attends her first GHFCW event.
Check out some more arrival images featuring: Laura Wright (Carly), Cassandra James (Terry), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane) and more in the gallery below.
Michael Fairman TV will be adding more images to this post in the day ahead.
So, were you glad to see so many of your GH favorites attending this year’s General Hospital Fan Club Weekend? Let us know via the comment section.
General Hospital
Vincent Pastore of ‘Sopranos’ Fame and ‘General Hospital’s’ Maximus Giambetti Dies at 80
Vincent Pastore, best known for his memorable role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s The Sopranos has passed away.
The veteran actor was found dead on August 1st in his home in the Bronx, New York. Pastore was 80-years-old. The cause of death is yet to be determined.
As well as his role on The Sopranos, many soap fans will recall he played multiple smaller roles on the beloved One Life to Live from 1995 and 2004. However, in 2008, he landed the short-term role as Maximus Giambetti on General Hospital.
PASTORE WANTED TO BE ON GENERAL HOSPITAL
Maximus was the mobster father of Sonny Corinthos’ (Maurice Benard) bodyguards: Max (Derk Cheetwood) and Milo (Drew Cheetwood)
According to Soap Opera Digest, Pastore told Soaps In Depth back in 2009, after appearing in a SOAPnet promotional campaign as a celebrity fan of General Hospital: “‘I’d love to be on the show. So they called up GH’s casting director (Mark Teschner) and Bobby (Robert Guza Jr. ex-head writer, GH) and they wrote me in!”
Pastore was a huge General Hospital fan from way back, who at one point told producers that he would watch the ABC soap opera while working in bars and nightclubs in the 70s and 80s.
Throughout his decades long career, Pastore appeared in films including: Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way and Men of Respect, The Jerky Boys: The Movie and the 1996 HBO TV movie Gotti.
In TV, besides The Sopranos, Pastore’s credits included: Law & Order, The Practice, Son of the Beach, Queens Supreme, Hawaii Five-0, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, plus the miniseries The Last Don II. Most recently, Vincent was a series regular on Gravesend and guest starred on Yellowjackets.
Pastore is survived by his daughter, Renee, son-in-law and granddaughter.
Share your remembrances and condolences for Vincent Pastore on his memorable role on ‘The Sopranos’ and his time on ‘General Hospital’ via the comment section below.
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GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
‘General Hospital’ Fan Club Weekend 2026 (Photos)
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Rosie O’Donnell Says She Will Return to ‘The View’ During its Season 30
WWE SummerSlam 2026 Night Two: Top 5 Takeaways
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
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