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‘General Hospital’ Head Writers Tease Plans to Honor Tristan Rogers’ Robert Scorpio and Denise Alexander’s Lesley Webber

By Michael Fairman

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Photos: JPI

General Hospital viewers recently saw the incredibly moving episodes surrounding the death of Monica Quartermaine (the late Leslie Charleson) and her memorial, and its aftermath. That aftermath is still playing out which includes; the sudden arrival of Monica’s never-heard-of before sister, Ronnie Bard (Erika Slezak).

Now fans are wondering, can lightning strike twice or three times if GH’s co-head writers, Elizabeth Korte and Chris Van Etten, honor Tristan Rogers (Robert Scorpio) and Denise Alexander (Lesley Webber) both of whom passed away this year?

During last week’s 52nd annual Daytime Emmy Awards, General Hospital took home the gold for the Outstanding Writing Team in a Daytime Drama Series. In the Winners Walk, following their victory, Elizabeth Korte and Chris Van Etten spoke with TV Insider, who asked if there was any update to how GH plans to send-off and honor the beloved characters of Robert Scorpio and Lesley Webber and would it be similar to what fans saw in terms of the care and thoughtfulness that was put into Monica’s death.

Photo: NATAS

“Our plan is to absolutely do that,’ said Van Etten “We want to make sure that we achieve the same goal that I think we have with the story of Monica’s passing. We want a story that will carry (Lesley and Robert’s) names into the future, so that we still feel Robert’s and Lesley’s presence for years to come.”

Denise Alexander joined General Hospital back in 1973 after her 7-year successful run as Susan Martin on Days of our Lives.  When Alexander came over to GH, the show was struggling with low ratings. In fact, a 1976 TIME magazine article panned the soap opera, but praised Alexander’s portrayal of Lesley, calling her the show’s ‘only saving grace.'”

Photo: ABC

Soon after, the Lesley/Rick/Monica triangle caught fire and the show became top-ranked once again. Alexander portrayed Dr. Lesley Webber until 1984 when she was killed-off. However in true soap fashion, she returned to GH in 1996 very much alive and remained on a recurring basis until 2021.

Photo: JPI

It was 1980 when Tristan Rogers joined General Hospital as super spy Robert Scorpio. He remained with the show until 1992. The character of Scorpio at that time was presumed dead. Fast-forward to 2006 when viewers learned Robert was alive and well. Rogers continued playing Scorpio on and off until this year; with a few years/stints to The Young and the Restless in-between as Colin Atkinson.

Photo: ABC

Knowing how emotional it was for viewers and the positive reaction they received for the writing of Monica’s memorial, Korte added she understands the importance of honoring these memorable and defining GH characters in the series history. “Monica was a pillar of General Hospital,” explained Korte. “She was the heart of the Quartermaines, and the Quartermaines are our crazy, awesome family.”

So, how would you like to see General Hospital handle killing-off the characters of Robert Scorpio and Lesley Webber in order to honor the contributions of Tristan Rogers and Denise Alexander to the legacy of the iconic soap opera? What kind of story would you like to see, and who would you like to see return to the show to heighten the emotion of the story? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.

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I will honor robert and leslie webber.oxoxoxRIP

I will as well oxoxox

I do think that these two pivotal characters deserve proper memorials.
More than anything, though, I want Sam McCall resurrected. She added so much to General Hospital with her investigation services, her back story, the way she took care of her children and family. Maybe she had to go undercover with the investigation into what is going on with Sidwell, Drew, etc.

I totally agree with you, would be continuing in the Soap Opera tradition and great plot line(s)

That’s an awesome idea!

Robert’s passing deserves a storyline (not just a tribute episode) and requires timing to get Emma Samms, Kimberly McCullough and probably Sofia Mattsson back temporarily.

Because most of her contemporaries have passed on, Lesley’s death only impacts Laura. Elizabeth might have had a scene with Lesley, but nothing stands out. With Jon Lindstrom recently being spotted in the studio, hopefully Kevin is back soon to help Laura when Lesley’s passing is addressed.

For anyone wondering, Audrey lives on happily off screen with Rachel Ames nearing her 96th birthday.

Thanks so much for the update on Rachel Ame. It would be amazing if Audrey was able to be at Lesley’s service.

As nice as that sounds, she retired full time around 10 years ago.

So many from Lesley Webber’s stories are gone. Scott should be there. John Stamos as Blackie? Little Mikey? Laura, Lucky, Lulu.
Robin has to make a cameo for Robert. Tiffany, too. Even by phone if necessary.
So many from GH’s history are gone.

Based on the number of people at Monica’s funeral, I wouldn’t hold out hope for too many for Robert and Lesley. Definitely not John Stamos. Maybe they can get JJ to do a few episodes… KM is the true question mark. They’ll want her, I just don’t know if she wants to be in front of the camera at all. I just get that impression. She hasn’t acted since her last GH appearances in 2021 and prior to that 2018.

Jonathan Jackson told Michael Fairman he will definitely return for episodes honoring Leslie Webber. In fact, I thought they may have already shot those scenes as I heard rumors that JJ was on set earlier this month shooting episodes.

I think Kimberly McCullough will agree to return to honor Tristan Rogers. I know she’s busy directing new projects, but I think she would return to honor him.

Where are you reading that JJ said that about returning? I follow this site regularly and have never seen any quote like the one you suggest.

I saw that, too, but it was on another tv entertainment site that he said would be interested in returning for a memorial honoring Lesley.

Very happy to hear that both will be honored.

Lesley Webber and Robert Scorpio are very important parts of GH history. I hope they and the actors are appropriately honored.

.I like both actors
The were always the best we will miss them always. for all the .actors that are gone so soon. I have watching for 6oyears love the show ,known I am retired now. I do not miss a day of Gh
.kept it going

I very much agree

I remember the first time Robert met Leslie. He met her in front of Laura’s apartment. He thought she was gorgeous and he felt she looked so young to be Laura’s mom. He said something like “You’re Laura’s mother? How is that possible?”I loved these 2 characters when I was a kid. I’m glad GH is going to honor them.

I’m glad to hear they plan to honor both Leslie Webber and Robert Scorpio. I know Jonathan Jackson said he will return to shoot episodes honoring Leslie. There were rumors that JJ was on set a few weeks back and I wondered if they were shooting scenes honoring Leslie. When Laura attended Monica’s memorial she told Jason that Leslie was sick. So I thought they were leading up to Leslie’s story. I’m sure Laura, Lucky, Lulu, Elizabeth, and Aiden, would definitely be part of Leslie’s memorial. Inwishntheyd bring Jake, Nikolas and Scotty back for the memorial, but it’s doubtful.

As for Robert, I really hope Frank can get Kimberly McCullough to return to honor Tristan Rogers. If there is a reason KM would return to GH, it would be to honor TR and Finola Hughes. They would have to get Sasha, Holly to also return. Of course Mac, Felicia and Maxie, if it happens next year, would be there.

I’d like to see Brenda and Jax return to GH

I highly doubt they will bring back Ingo Rademacher to play Jax after he sued ABC.

RIP to all that have passed loved you all!

Luke should come back for Leslie as she was his mother-in-law, as well as, for Robert. They were good friends.

Luke is dead.

Is anyone every really dead on a soap? I think if Tony Geary wanted to do an appearance… Luke would be very much alive. I still hold on to “never say never” where Luke / Tony is concerned.

About 5 years ago, I would’ve agreed with you. Geary (now 78) is enjoying retirement in Amsterdam. He had some very heartfelt comments when Tristan passed (as he did when Jackie did).

Yes, he did a cameo (Luke was still alive then) in 2017 when Jane “retired”. Fortunately for us, she changed her mind.

When discussing his prior “returns” over the years, he has hinted or stated they’ve stroked his ego. Like they’ve raved about his abilities or they’ve given him carte blanche to write the story or make whatever changes he wants to make. He has said things like “He/she really knows how to talk to an actor’s ego”. So, I’m guessing if they want him to come back for a limited run, they better start laying on the charm and let him have whatever he wants. Otherwise, he will happily stay in Amsterdam.

Bring back Sam

Please bring back Sam!!

Really looking forward to this! It’s past time to honor them!

Breaking News

53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards Presenters Announced

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Daytime Emmy Presenters

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) revealed on Thursday, the lineup of presenters for 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards taking place on Friday, October 30, 2026, at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, California.

The ceremony will stream live on the NATAS YouTube channel at YouTube.com/@theemmys and watch.TheEmmys.tv.

Scheduled to present from the current soaps are: Katelyn MacMullen (Willow, General Hospital), Delon de Metz (Zende, The Bold and the Beautiful), James Preston (Nick, The Bay), Paul Telfer (Xander, Days of our Lives), Tamara Tunie (Anita, Beyond the Gates) and Susan Walters (Diane, The Young and the Restless).

Genie Francis

Photo: NATAS

In addition soap alums, Crystal Chappell, Lesli Kay, Joe Lando, Eva LaRue, who is also a nominee this year,  A Martinez, Juliet Mills, and Alicia Leigh Willis, will also be on hand to present.

The ceremony which celebrates nominated lifestyle programs and dramas will also include presenters: Eva zu Beck (Superskilled with Eva zu Beck), Danielle Chang (Lucky Chow), Sunny Hostin (The View), Derek Hough (Extra), Pati Jinich (Pati’s Mexican Table), Star Jones (Divorce Court), Michael Jr. (Stand Up and Do Something), Judge Greg Mathis (Mathis Court with Judge Mathis), Keke Palmer (Glam Through the Ages), Nischelle Turner (Entertainment Tonight), and Andrew Zimmern (Andrew Zimmern’s Wild Game Kitchen).

The 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards will bring together an exciting mix of presenters representing the full spectrum of daytime television,” said Adam Sharp, President & CEO of NATAS. “From familiar faces in daytime drama to the personalities and creative voices behind talk shows and lifestyle programming, this year’s lineup reflects the breadth of talent that makes daytime so special. We look forward to celebrating the people who continue to shape the genre.”

Matthew Hoffman (Love Island USA, Cheap A$$ Beach Houses) will serve as the ceremony’s Voice of God, bringing his signature comedic narration to the evening’s celebrations. As previously announced, Lifetime Achievement honoree Genie Francis (Laura, General Hospital) will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by her husband, Jonathan Frakes.

So, what do you think about the list of presenters for the 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards? Let us know who you are looking forward to seeing via the comment section below.

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Could Kristen Vaganos and Josh Kelly Be Exiting ‘General Hospital?’

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Josh and Kristen

General Hospital fans took to social media following the airing of the Wednesday, October 21 episode of the ABC daytime drama series. In story, Molly (Kristen Vaganos) reveals to Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn) that she has received an offer to join the top law firm in Chicago that practices civil law. She says it’s her dream job.

The problem Molly says is relocating from Port Charles and uprooting her life and being away from her mother, Scout and boyfriend Cody Bell (Josh Kelly). Wistful that she may lose another daughter to a long-distance situation (Kristina left a few months back to go to medical school in California), Alexis urged Molly to get Cody to go with her.

Molly still seemed concerned and has trouble committing to the idea. Alexis tells her to talk it over with Cody. Meanwhile, Cody asked Tracy (Jane Elliot) is he can have Thanksgiving off because he and Molly planned to spend Thanksgiving together with their families. After initially balking, Tracy agrees.

Courtesy/ABC

WILL MOLLY AND CODY HEAD TO CHI-TOWN?

Later, Cody shows up at Miller & Davis and the conversation turned to Thanksgiving dinner that Alexis is hosting. Molly and Cody asked her not to cook anything. Cody hugged Molly reassuring Alexis that he and Molly would take care of whatever was needed on Turkey Day.

So, this raises the question, why out of nowhere are we learning that Molly received an amazing law offer in Chicago, if the character was not being written out? If Molly leaves the canvas, would the character of Cody make his exit too?

Kristen Vaganos joined GH as a recast Molly Lansing-Davis back in September of 2023 and went on contract in August of 2024. Josh Kelly began playing Cody Bell back in June of 2022. Initial reports were that Kelly joined the show on contract and then as of June 2025 went on recurring status with the show per his choice.

Do you see a world where GH is writing out Molly and Cody? Would you be sad to see Kristen and Josh exit the soap opera? If this is not what is going on, is this just a plot point for some other story that is upcoming? Share your thoughts and theories via the comment section.

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Kin Shriner Gives High Praise to ‘General Hospital’ TV Daughter Kelly Kruger

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Kin and kelly

It’s been over two-years since his last appearance on General Hospital, now fan favorite Kin Shriner (Scott Baldwin) has taken to social media to share his thoughts on the casting of his grown-up TV daughter, Serena Baldwin now played by Kelly Kruger.

Kelly took over the role of Serena on-screen starting with the July 30, 2026 episode and has been ensconced in the storyline with her mother, Lucy Coe (Lynn Herring), in trying to win back full creative control of Deception for her.

In fact on the Monday, October 19 episode of the ABC soap opera, Serena tried to dupe Jason Morgan (Steve Burton) into signing over Michael’s (Rory Gibson) shares of the company. Jason caught on and wondered why she was doing this. She claimed she just wanted to help her mom gain creative control from Tracy (Jane Elliot) rather than full ownership, and begged Jason to keep quiet about it, which he agreed to for now.

Serena and Jason

Courtesy/ABC

WHERE IS SCOTT?

On Monday, Shriner also took to X and said, “I think Kelly Kruger is doing a great job on General Hospital, and she and Lynn Herring work well together.” That was followed by comments in his thread about the show needing to bring back Scott too.

In fact, back on August 25, Shriner also took to X with a reminder that Scott is still around and ready to come back to Port Charles, sharing, “Scotty Baldwin always fits in he just needs the right sport coat !!!!”

The last time Serena mentioned her father Scott was when Kruger made her debut and informed Lucy that her father was, “living his best life in Key West.”  Meanwhile, Shriner posts on his X account continually and shared back on August 2, that it has been 49 years since he made his on-screen debut as then teenaged, Scotty Baldwin and thanked the fans for al the love and support.

So, now let us know, are you enjoying Kelly Kruger as Serena Baldwin? Do you want to see GH bring back Scott Baldwin into the story, so Serena has both her parents in Port Charles? Do you like the potential of Jason and Serena pairing? Weigh-in via the comment section below.

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Jonathan Bennett joins the cast of GH as Joe Fitzpatrick. Catch the latest promo! Leave a comment.Leave A Comment

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