General Hospital
‘General Hospital’ Head Writers Tease Plans to Honor Tristan Rogers’ Robert Scorpio and Denise Alexander’s Lesley Webber
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.
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!
General Hospital
Kate Mansi Wraps On-Screen Run as ‘General Hospital’s’ Kristina Corinthos-Davis
The Friday, June 12 episode of General Hospital marked the last for Daytime Emmy winner, Kate Mansi as Kristina Corinthos-Davis. As previously reported, the character was accepted to medical school at UCLA in California, making the end of the run for Mansi who played Kristina for three years.
The decision to depart GH was all Mansi’s decision and as also previously reported, GH executive producer Frank Valentini had left the door open for a return down the line and is currently not planning on recasting the part.
In story, in her final episode, having already said goodbye on Thursday’s show to her parents, Sonny (Maurice Benard) and Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn), Kristina meets up with her siblings, Molly (Kristen Vaganos) and Michael (Rory Gibson). The three have a chat at the Metro Court Gardens.

Courtesy/ABC
SIBLING ADVICE
Before she leaves Port Charles, Kristina tells her brother and sister, she wants them to be there for each other, while each is managing their personal relationships: Molly with Cody (Josh Kelly) and Michael with Jacinda (Paige Herschell). Kristina thanked them for taking her to the airport and urged them to lean on each other while she was gone.
In her last scene, Kristina tells Molly and Michael right before they head for her flight, “I want each of you to be the person the other can call. OK? To show up for each other, no questions asked. Because that’s what you’ve been for me.”
KATE’S NEXT MOVE
Speaking with TV Insider, Mansi shared what she is up to next which has included accompanying her husband, Matt McInnis to Europe. Kate explained she had made the decision a few months back to exit GH. “I knew my contract was up in April and I wanted to give them the proper notice so that they could plan their future storytelling.” Kate added, “Given that my husband is working in Europe predominantly and I’ll be traveling so much, that’s what this next chapter of my life will be.”
Kate expressed that the news of her exit was hard to share with people, because she would feel sad when talking about it. Ultimately, the first to know were Nancy Lee Grahn, Kristen Vaganos, and Rory Gibson. She chose not to tell Maurice Benard, because she was so close to him in real-life, until they filmed their last episode together which aired yesterday.
There’s more! Kate gave a final tease that she has project in the works sharing, “I’m excited to have booked a short-term project in the fall that works within my schedule.” As to a future return to GH, Mansi doesn’t rule it out, “It’s Port Charles. Anything is possible.”
So, what did you think of Kate’s final scenes as Kristina with Sonny, Alexis, Molly and Michael? Do you hope Kate come back in a few years time? Weigh-in via the comment section. In case you missed it, you can catch the scenes where Kristina tells her parents she is leaving Port Charles below.
General Hospital
Troy Lennon Appel Joins the Cast of ‘General Hospital’ in Contract Role of the Mysterious ‘Hudson’
There are even more newbies coming to General Hospital with the news today that Troy Lennon Appel is joining the cast of the ABC daytime drama series in the contract role of “Hudson.” Look for Appel to make his debut on the July 30th episode.
What we do know is that Hudson is a business executive with mysterious ties. As first reported by TV Insider, Troy has already been enjoying his time on the legacy soap opera. He enthused, “Working on GH has been nothing short of an incredible, fast-paced experience, Everyone is very professional; they’re on top of every intricate part of this very established, well-oiled machine, and I’m just trying to keep up and not halt the process in any way.”
In a statement, General Hospital executive producer, Frank Valentini expressed: “Troy is a terrific guy, and we are excited to have him join our cast. And fans will be intrigued to see how his character fits into the story.“
FOUR NEWCOMERS IN SHORT ORDER
Appel’s casting comes on the heels of three other major additions coming to Port Charles, and all should be landing on-air next month in July. As previously reported, Dean Geyer has joined the cast as Tristan Robert and is set to debut on the July 13 episode. Daytime vet, Kelly Kruger (ex-B&B and Y&R) has signed on to play the new Serena Baldwin and Kayden Brenna Tokarski is the new Scout Cain, the daughter of Drew (Cameron Mathison) and the late Sam (Kelly Monaco).
Apple added on his GH experience thus far, “So many of the cast and crew have gone out of their way to welcome me, and I am immensely grateful for how simple and easy this transition has been. I owe it all to them. They know what they’re doing, and I hope to learn as much as I can and add to the show, to the best of my ability.”
Troy’s previous credits have included: Revenge Best Served Chilled, Blackmail, Lies and Murder, and Lethally Blonde. Finding Master Right and Menflix, and he appeared with The Goldbergs star Hayley Orrantia’s music video for her single, “Find Yourself Somebody.”
So, what do you think about the casting of Troy Lennon Appel to General Hospital? Who will Hudson actually have ties to, since it is a contract role? Will you be intrigued to see all the new arrivals next month in Port Charles? Let us know via the comment section below.
General Hospital
‘General Hospital’ Alum Avery Pohl Joins Cast of Netflix’s ‘Scooby-Doo Origins’ Series
Previously on General Hospital, Esme Prince caused so much trouble for Spencer Cassadine (Nicholas Alexander Chavez) and Trina Robinson (Tabyana Ali) until the character went overboard and was presumed dead back in January of 2024.
Esme’s portrayer, Avery Pohl was heralded by GH fans as one of the great young baddies in recent memory. And now, Pohl is taking her talents to the new Netflix series, and joining the Scooby-Doo universe in an undisclosed role in the upcoming show, Scooby-Doo Orgins!
News of Pohl’s casting came via Deadline when they revealed 12 actors joining the upcoming live-action series which also includes notables: Sara Gilbert (ex-The Talk and The Connors), and Sherilyn Fenn (Twin Peaks), plus previously announced, MacKenna Grace (ex-Faith, The Young and the Restless) who plays the central role of Daphne Blake. Tanner Hagen takes on Shaggy Rogers, Abby Ryder Fortson plays Velma Dinkley, Maxwell Jenkins is Fred Jones, and even Paul Walter Hauser also appears in a secret role, and not to be left out, Scooby-Doo himself.

Courtesy/ABC
ZOINKS, RUH-RO AND JEEPERS!
Avery Pohl took to her Instagram upon the reveal of her new project and said, “Dog’s outta the bag. So grateful to work with so many talented and kind individuals.” Immediately many of her former GH castmates congratulated the actress including: Tabyana Ali and her predecessor in the role of Trina, Sydney Mikalya and Eden McCoy (Josslyn).
According to the official loglines for Scooby-Doo Origins, its a, “Modern reimagining of the iconic mystery-solving group of teens and their very special dog. During their final summer at camp, old friends Shaggy and Daphne get embroiled in a haunting mystery surrounding a lonely lost Great Dane puppy that may have been a witness to a supernatural murder. Together with the pragmatic and scientific townie, Velma and the strange, but ever so handsome new kid, Freddy, they set out to solve the case that is pulling each of them into a creepy nightmare that threatens to expose all of their secrets.”
The series, which introduced supernatural mystery-solving teens Fred Jones, Daphne Blake, Velma Dinkley, and Shaggy Rogers and their talking Great Dane Scooby-Doo, originally aired on CBS from 1969-76. It then moved to ABC, where various versions of the show aired until 1986. The Scooby-Doo franchise has also released three movies more than adozen animated series, and over 40 animated home entertainment movies.
WILL ESME PRINCE RETURN TO GH?
Pohl received a Daytime Emmy nomination in 2025, in the Outstanding Guest Performer category and initially debuted on GH back in 2021.
In case you missed it, Avery participated in a livestream chat last year along with GH’s Katelyn MacMullen (Willow) and their acting coach and soap alum Holly Gagnier (ex-Days, GH, and OLTL) on the Michael Fairman Channel. You can check it out below.
Now, share your congrats for Avery on landing her upcoming role in ‘Scooby-Doo Origins’ Let us know, if you hope GH brings back Esme one day and Spencer Cassadine via the comment section.
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