Breaking News
Jonathan Jackson Reveals the Reason Behind His Exit from ‘General Hospital’: “We Gave It Our Best Shot”
If you think the quick exit by Jonathan Jackson following the five-time Daytime Emmy-winner’s return to General Hospital was planned way in advance, you can scrap that notion after Jonathan opened up about his decision to exit the ABC daytime drama series as Lucky Spencer sooner than he had hoped.
According to Jackson in a discussion with TV Insider, he revealed that the distance between his home in Tennessee and taping GH in Los Angeles, and being away from his family played a large part in his early departure.
As Jonathan explained it was never his intention to exit his iconic GH role as Luke and Laura’s son only nine months after his heralded and heavily-publicized return in August of 2024. He shared, “It was more of a real, sincere attempt from myself and from General Hospital to make it work for a longer period of time. The hope was to be able to stay on longer.”
Photo: ABC
However, he seemed to allude to that it was always on the table as an ‘bit of an experiment” when he came back to the soap opera. Jackson said, “There was always that possibility because it was a bit of an experiment on my part to see if I could make it work with the family dynamic.” Jonathan has three young children and is married to former GH star, Lisa Vultaggio (ex-Hannah).
He continued, “There were moments where I thought, ‘I think I can find this balance with the family and time back and forth,’ and then you just have to pray about it and try to do what you feel is right. We gave it our best shot, but we weren’t able to keep it going.”
As viewers are seeing an abrupt exit on the airshows, when after Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst) turned down Lucky’s marriage proposal, he decides its time to leave Port Charles. Jackson admitted it was sort of sudden when he made his final decision.
Photo: ABC
“I was trying to stay in the moment as much as possible,” explained the actor/singer/writer. That’s really where my mindset was, taking it one day at a time, but also one month at a time, and just seeing how it was feeling. I have to say that none of this would have happened at all if Frank Valentini (EP, GH) wasn’t so open and helpful to even get it this far. So that’s definitely something I’ve been extremely blessed by.”
Photo: JJacksonIG
Now gone from GH (as viewers will see Lucky’s latest exit on the canvas this week), Jonathan said he plans to concentrate on his music where he will be releasing a solo album later this year, the release of a new book of poems, called Anthology of Longing, while leaving the door open for other outside projects. Jackson also plans on touring in 2026 in the UK, and throughout Europe and in the U.S. and performing in the Nashville concert series as well. Jonathan starred as Avery Barkley in the canceled ABC music city drama series.
So, what do you think about the reason behind Jonathan Jackson’s exit? On top of the travel issues, do you think GH missed a huge opportunity to capitalize on his acting prowess, by not having him land in a storyline that might be more enticing for him to rethink his decision? Comment below.
I accept him for his words and feelings… but if the traveling back and forth is the reason.. wasn’t the travel understood before agreeing?
I wish him well nonetheless.
Maybe he should’ve been recurring. Rick Hearst commutes from NJ and John York from Tennessee. They likely have a bit more control on their schedules than a contract performer who has to be available every weekday for shooting.
Right? Yet he’s going to tour with his music, so…. you’re still away from the family. I feel life has a non-committal as his character
Don’t get me wrong, I love Jonathan Jackson, and his portrayal of Lucky is great. But it’s become too unreliable and inconsistent to keep him in the role. Lucky should be front-and-center, driving story regularly. He’s Luke and Laura’s son, has tons of connections to the canvas, and should be a leading man. GH should really consider finding a suitable recast (which they’ve been excellent at recently) and keep Lucky on long-term.
I agree with you Jimmy. They definitely should recast Lucky.
Greg Vaughn
Greg Vaughn can’t even commit to doing Days of Our Lives full time, so it’s not likely he would do that for GH either.
Nothing against Greg’s version of Lucky – though he did seem like a different character entirely. It would be really weird to see that version come back after the real Lucky was around for a while.
One thing I do know…. the temp hire who unfortunately filled in on the day Cyrus the Virus shot “Lucky” with digitalis. That would be a huge NO. Still can’t forgive that guy for what he did to the character of Will Horton on Days. I’ll even give Ben Weston a pass for taking him out with a necktie.
While I agree that it’s highly unlikely that GV would ever return to GH, isn’t it DAYS tight budget that can’t afford him on contract?
We survived 10 years without Lucky. It’ll be a while before we see him again. Not this year, but if Laura has a son return, it’s probably gonna be Nikolas (a recast).
Hey, family comes first.
But yet the article says he’ll be touring for his music in Europe in 2026. Can’t get much further from home and family than that, now can you. GH should recast him.
Making a living to support that family is right up there, too!
I think even though he’s too polite to say, its the terrible storyline he was given upon his return just terrible.No screen time.I don’t blame him a bit.I hope the Hallmark Channel or Great.American Family channel will use him to do some movies. Some GAC shows film in TN.
That would be amazing to her him on Hallmark or GAC
I agree that the writing afforded to him was lackluster and disappointing but those adjectives also perfectly describe JJ’s acting this time around. Just like Lucky didn’t want to stay put in Port Charles, JJ clearly didn’t want to be on the set of GH— he just wanted a paycheck. The picture of him above says it all; he looks bored and passive. It didn’t help that they had his big story centering around covering up for that feckless, insipid, awful Kristina.
Jonathan’s return was a bust from the word go. They had no story for him once we got past the Sidwell stuff in Africa. It was a woefully terrible job by Frank and the writers. Why bother bringing a legacy character like Lucky Spencer back if you’re not gonna write a story for him? This has to go down as one of the worst, most botched big name returns in soap history.
From Johnathan’s end, in my personal opinion, it never seemed like his heart was in it. I’ve seen his career on GH from the start, and he’s not a 5-time Emmy winner for no reason. I know what it looks like when he’s putting his heart and soul into a story, and when someone is phoning it in, and unfortunately, phoning it in is the vibe I got from him during this entire return, aside from a couple moments here and there, such as when he worked with Genie Francis, and she could act opposite a potted plant and make it compelling, and the scenes with Aiden coming out to Lucky. I think they had exactly two scenes together after that, which is another indictment of the writing on this show.
Such a wasted opportunity, Very unfortunate that it came to this. But if the show isn’t gonna write for the character, and if his heart isn’t in it, then it’s best to call it a day, and move on.
This was my first intro to the Lucky character and I haven’t been impressed. I thought the facial fuzz was because of the mess that he had been in, but he never cleaned up. He looks weak and unkempt, like a boy not a man. There’s no chemistry with Elizabeth, she vibes him in the friend zone. So … bye boy
Yes they could have done alot with him. He was an open canvas.
It sounds like it wouldn’t have mattered if they scripted a bigger storyline for him. I do think the writers had bigger plans for a Liz and Lucky reunion but had to change course when it became too difficult for JJ to continue. It sounds like they worked around his schedule as best they could, which may have also added to why it didn’t seem like he had much of a story. Still, I wish he could have made it work. I was excited and looking forward to see what the writers had planned for Liz and Lucky’s love story I tuned in daily. So I was extremely disappointed when Liz turn down Lucky’s proposal and Lucky decided to leave.
As much as I love JJ as Lucky, and the chemistry and relationship he has with Becky Herbst, I wish GH would have made the decision to recast the role of Lucky. I would even welcome Greg Vaughan back as Lucky. I know Frank is leaving the door open for JJ to return, but today’s goodbye seemed so final.
I think Lucky Spencer is an important GH legacy character so he should remain on the canvas even as a recast. Is it really too much to ask that they chemistry test prospective candidates with Becky and Genie to find the right fit? I wish they would.
Sly, I watched GH when Greg Vaughan played Lucky and I loved his portrayal of Lucky the adult. I’d love to have Greg back. That’s unlikely because of his commitment to DOOL. Also, Greg might be hesitant to trust TPTB at GH again. After all, they dumped him to bring back Jonathan Jackson all those years ago. Jackson only managed to stay a brief period then too.
I’m with you. It’s time for permanent Lucky recast.
Funny, I thought Steve Burton lived in Tennessee. Somehow he manages to stay in canvas while traveling back and forth. Just saying. Anyway, good luck to Jonathan in his career and his family. May he have nothing but success, happiness and peace.
To TPTB: Lucky is a very important character to the history of GH and should be a regular, ongoing part of the show. It is time to recast the role.
Steve Burton used to live in Tenessee.
Wish nothing but the best for Jonathan. But GH owed it to the fans to keep Lucky Spencer up front and center. They could of done a recast. Wouldn’t be the first time. I’m very disappointed. I’ve been watching GH 62yrs.
The show clearly dropped the ball from the start when he returned to the show, but that’s a whole different long discussion that I don’t have the patience to get into, I will say, I at least like the fact that even though things are ending for him and Liz, it feels like at least they ended things as friends and He is going away with Aiden and spend quality time with his son, and since he’s not coming back anytime soon, I hope the show still keeps their relationship as co parent and that he won’t be a deadbeat dad with his son. And it is possible to be good friends with an ex, so hopefully we hear liz visits him even if it offscreen . Now the only thing I hope the show does is not ignore Elisabeth and now that Britt is coming back not take advantage of mixing it up with Jason .
I don’t understand why they didn’t just replace a lucky with somebody else so that there’s something good in the show that could happen instead of always terribly bad things. And I all I also believe that Willow should not get custody. It’s about time that she sees what Drew has done this has been carried out so long. So I’m praying that this will happen within the next couple of weeks or next this week would be great.
Well, now the budget has room to bring back Evan Hofer’s DEX! Wooh Hooh!
Maybe you should start a Go Fund Me for your cause.
Dex is dead.
Did you search for Mr. Fairman’s interview that I recommended? Just hit the search icon above and type in ” Evan Hofer opens up on Dex’s deathbed scene”. Again, Evan himself understood Dex’s death was storyline driven.
And mostly, he doesn’t have a magical Aunt Lesil to reanimate him like Britt does.
Family first❣️
I hate it!!! I was so happy to see Lucky return! Please bring him back!!!!
I absolutely loved having him back! But, I’m also a huge fan of his music. He has to do what is best for him and his family. I love that he is taking being a father as a priority! I had a horrible father. So I believe this is a priority for all men and women as mothers. I am proud of him! So long as they do not kill him off he can always come back from time to time.
Breaking News
2026 Daytime Emmy Awards: ‘Extra’ Partners with NATAS for Pre-Ceremony Red Carpet Stream; Week of Segments Leading to Ceremony and Post-Coverage
The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) announced on Thursday that the syndicated entertainment news series, Extra will be its partner for exclusive coverage of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards being held on Friday, October 30 at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.
The 2026 Daytime Emmys as previously reported can be seen streamed via the The Emmys,YouTube channel, via watch.theemmys.tv, as well as on the official Emmys app, available for phones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Here’s a breakdown of the pre, during and post Daytime Emmys coverage via Extra below!
Beginning Monday, October 26, Extra will feature five nights of dedicated Daytime Emmys segments leading up to the ceremony, giving fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the award show.
In addition, Mona Kosar Abdi, Weekend Host & Senior Correspondent with Extra will host the pre-show red carpet stream on the @TheEmmys Youtube channel.
Extra host and Dancing with the Stars judge, Derek Hough will present during the ceremony, and correspondent Terri Seymour will also host coverage throughout the evening.
Extra’s weekend edition (A WEEK FOLLOWING the ceremony) will features notable red carpet moments, winner reactions, and exclusive footage from the night’s festivities.
The entertainment news program is also nominated for three Daytime Emmy Awards going into the ceremony.
So, what do you think of Extra’s scheduled upcoming coverage of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards starting on Monday? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
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).
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.
Congratulations are in order for three-time Emmy winner, Tom Pelphrey (ex-GL and ATWT) and his fiancée Big Bang Theory star, Kaley Cuoco! The couple welcomed their second baby daughter together on October 12, and revealed they named the little bundle of joy, Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey.
Tom and Kaley shared the news via their Instagram accounts on Wednesday with some adorable baby pics. Cuoco captioned the photo“🎀Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey🎀. 💖10/12/26💖. There are no words to describe this feeling once again. What a blessing.
Cuoco added, “We are so grateful for the crazy wild up and down journey that brought us to our little Philo! Family officially complete 😭Time to bring Matilda’s baby home! 😂💕”
Photo: KCuoco IG
BABY MAKES FOUR
Next, Kaley shared her love for the father of her children, exclaiming, “Tom Pelphrey, life exploded the minute we met, and the gifts keep coming. I love you forever , girl daddy! 💘.”
Philomena now joins big sister, Matilda mwho was born in 2023, as part of the Pelphrey/Cuoco family! Tom and Kaley began dating in 2022 and became engaged in 2024.
Daytime fans first saw the talented actor on Guiding Light as Jonathan Randall, the son of Reva Shayne (Kim Zimmer). Tom won two Daytime Emmys for his memorable performances during his run from 2004-2009.
He later played Mick Dante on As the World Turns from 2009-2010, before heading to work in primetime and motion pictures. Last month, Pelphrey one the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in HBO’s Task.
TOM PELPHREY CELEBRATES EMMY WIN AND NEW DAUGHTER WITHIN A MONTH OF EACH OTHER
After winning his Emmy, the expectant dad told E! News, “We’re both so excited. Our daughter’s excited. We’ll see how it goes when it actually gets there.” Tom added, “The things that are new and the things that feel like not a big deal this time. But mom and baby are healthy, so God willing, that keeps up, and we’re thrilled,” added the actor.
Pelphrey took to his own Instagram and said on the birth of his second daughter, “Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey. Another miracle. Welcome to our family youngest queen! Kaley you showed up in every way as a partner and a mom even when you weren’t feeling your best- you’re a CHAMPION. The girls and I would be lost without you. Thank God for the gift of this family and these girls.”
Jumping in to the comment thread to congratulate Tom and Kaley were Beyond the Gates star Ashley Jones (Heather), Dave Annabelle, Martha Plimpton, Alyssa Milano and many more.
Share your congrats and well-wishes to Tom, Kaley, Matilda and their new addition to the family, little Philomena via the comment section below.
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2026 Daytime Emmy Awards: ‘Extra’ Partners with NATAS for Pre-Ceremony Red Carpet Stream; Week of Segments Leading to Ceremony and Post-Coverage
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