General Hospital
Chris McKenna Shares How He Reconnected with Former TV Mom, Erika Slezak Upon Landing the Role of GH’s Jack Brennan
It’s been a full circle moment for General Hospital’s newest cast addition, Chris McKenna, upon taking on the role of WSB Port Charles Bureau Chief, Jack Brennan. Coming on to GH reunites McKenna with executive producer, Frank Valentini with whom he worked with when he started his soap career on One Life to Live when he was just 14-years old.
As previously reported, today on the February 4th episode of GH, McKenna makes his debut as Jack, replacing the outgoing Charles Mesure, who opted to leave the ABC daytime drama series and will be heavy in story with Laura Wright (Carly).
McKenna played Viki’s (Erika Slezak) son, Joey Buchanan from 1990-1993, and in a new interview with TV Insider, shared that him being the new Jack Brennan happened very fast. Chris shared, “Ive run into Frank over the years a couple of times, but he still thinks of me as 14 years old. So, I thought I was finally going to get in front of him and remind him that I’m an adult now (Laughs). As soon as I finished the read with Laura, which seemed to go pretty darn well, Frank said, ‘You were not this good when you were 12.’ And I said, ‘No s**t!’ ”
Photo: ABC
While Chris is used to playing the a spy or operative, this time on GH, he will be more of the James Bond-type as called for in the role of Jack, McKenna says he looks forward to the challenge, “I don’t usually play the guy in the suit; I’m in a tank top in the jungle, that kind of a CIA agent. So, this is a fun little twist on it.”
Perhaps most notable and touching is that McKenna reconnected with his former One Life to Live TV mom, Erika Slezak, when she was over the moon that he landed a role on GH.
Photo: ABC
Chris shared that Erika Slezak, “Apparently had just talked to Frank, and he told her that I was on the show, and she squealed and was so excited and she wrote me immediately to congratulate me, which is really great. She sends me Christmas cards and we exchange little messages, but that was the longest thing she’s written me, and I feel like we reconnected again because of that, so that was really cool.” Speaking the highest praise to the six-time Daytime Emmy-winning soap opera legend, McKenna added, “She’s my second mom.”
So, what do you think about the One Life to Live connection that brings Chris McKenna to General Hospital? What if Erika Slezak made a guest run as Jack Brennan’s mother? Are you willing to give Chris a chance to win you over as Jack Brennan? Comment below.
It is great to read he is still in touch with Erika. Let’s hope she is return to our screen soon too.
Yes!
He’s so hot and I wish Erika Slezak would go on a soap even if it was a for a few episodes here and there. She could be mistress of the plantation on Beyond the Gates or something.
You seriously didn’t suggest a soap legend should play “the mistress of the plantation” on a show with a predominantly Black cast in 2025?!?!?!
Disgusting.
OMG, that was so funny, I thought I’d never stop laughing. What Plantation, and I’m sure they buy their bananas, etc at Kroger, or whatever. I keep picturing Ms. Slezak in a big sun hat welcoming her visitors at her Plantation. Sorry for all this silliness but I can’t stop my imagination from going crazy.
I recently read that Kevin Fr m GH is on Beyond the gates.i haven’t seen it but did see him listed with the cast
You’re despicable!
Your continued racism is becoming quite old, Mimi.
Racism?!? Where?!? TF?!?
If you have to ask Nikki, then you are part of the problem.
“ What? Who me?” Love it when a person drops an obviously racist bomb predicated upon one of the most shameful period in US history and then acts bewildered when they’re called out on it. Mimi knows what she’s doing.
Excuse me??!! Talk about jackasses! You deserve so much more, but I am trying to keep it clean!
Recast for Monica….i love Leslie but would take her in the role. Imagine her sparring with Jane Elliott’s Tracy Q.
That will happen the day after I open a ski resort on Beelzebub Mountain
Not going to happen; she’s more likely being killed off, due to the real-life actor’s passing.
OH YEA!!
Just as Viki would never recasted after Erika played the role, Monica will never be recast.
Erika lives comfortably in Connecticut and would not move or regularly commute to LA for any role.
They had an actress playing Monica for a little bit, when she’s been sick in the past. Now we’re supposed to believe that Monica is in the bedroom upstairs
In real life, the actress passed away. So they need to either recast, or have her character also pass on the show. It’d be great if she left the house to Jason , Tracy would flip out!
As Leslie just passed away a few weeks ago, they need time to write a proper send off, gather clips and determine if any previous cast members should be invited back. They’ll give Monica/Leslie a proper send off sometime later this year.
As for who gets the house, I’ll save my projection until Monica’s passing is written in story.
If he brings Erica Slezak with him, I’ll give him all the chances in the world!
I am so happy that Chris stays in touch with Erika Slezak. They were so sweet as mother and son on One Life to Live. “She’s my second mom.” I love that.
I know that Erika lives very comfortably in the east; but, I’d LOVE for her to do a couple of episodes of GH as whatever character TPTB want to write for her. That would be fantastic. God bless her and her family.
would be fantastic if erika slezak whould be cast as brennan mother.
I’ve always been a big fan of Chris McKenna! I’m excited for him to make this role his own. I think he’ll do great.
I loved Chris on one life to live and I also love Erika Slezak ❤️
I’m already in love with with this Jack Brennan!
Me too! He’s a fantastic actor and love his take on Jack Brennan. He’s hot too!
Actually, I’d love to see Erick Slezak come on General Hospital as…Helena Cassadine! I know actress Constance Towers had retired and Helena is suppose to be dead, but she’s been ‘dead’ before and has come back , why not bring her back? Or maybe create a new Cassadine, Helena’s sister and have Erick play her
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.
Lucas Adams and Tamara Braun Written Out of The Young and the Restless
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
‘General Hospital’ Fan Club Weekend 2026 (Photos)
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Katie is Disowned By The Logan Sisters
GH Alum Nicholas Alexander Chavez Lands Role in Paramount’s Remake of ‘Possession’
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Reveals His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy-Nominated Reel Did Not Contain Monica’s Funeral
‘General Hospital’ Ethan Lovett Recast: Christian Howard Replaces Nathan Dean
‘General Hospital’ Alum Colin Cassidy to Appear in Ryan Murphy’s ‘The Shards’
Lucas Adams and Tamara Braun Written Out of The Young and the Restless
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
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL Preview: Katie is Suspicious of Dylan and Warns Will, Steffy Takes Off to Monaco
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General Hospital1 week ago‘General Hospital’ Ethan Lovett Recast: Christian Howard Replaces Nathan Dean
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