General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Chris McKenna Debuts as Jack Brennan; What Were Your First Impressions?
On the Tuesday, February 4th episode of General Hospital, viewers got their first glimpses of Chris McKenna (ex-OLTL, Y&R and B&B) in the role of Jack Brennan. The shift was a bit jarring for many fans of the series since they were used to Charles Mesure in the part since December 1, 2023.
As previously reported, Mesure opted to not stay with the ABC daytime drama series, which prompted this sudden recast. Mesure’s last airdate was on January 30th, while McKenna took over on yesterday’s airshow.
In story, Brennan, now played by McKenna, is flying back from Germany along with Carly (Laura Wright), and the two have a conversation filled with sexual innuendos; indicating the next time they are alone, Jack hopes things go further between them.

Courtesy/ABC
Suddenly, he gets a call before they land from Colette (Mercedes Lopez Renard), who informs Jack there is a problem on the ground. He tells her he will meet her as soon as he can. Later, we see the two meet up near a cabin in the woods. While Colette wants to go inside, Jack fears if this is Cyrus Renault’s (Jeff Kober) place, he could come back at any minute.
Jack has alternate plans. He wants Josslyn Jacks (Eden McCoy) to be the one to find Renault’s hideout and to see what she does with the information. As we know, Josslyn already had a terse conversation with Anna (Finola Hughes), about staying out of the PCPD’s investigation of Renault. However, clearly Josslyn is not getting the message, as she seems to be going rogue to get justice for the death of her beloved boyfriend, Dex Heller, who was murdered by Renault.

Courtesy/ABC
Chris McKenna’s entrance on to GH reunites him with executive producer, Frank Valentini, who for 26 years was at One Life to Live working his way up through the production ranks and eventually as that show’s EP. McKenna debuted on One Life at only 12-years old as Viki Buchanan’s (Erika Slezak) son, Joey Buchanan, and stayed in the role from 1990-1993. He was replaced in 1994 by none other than Nathan Fillion.
So, what were your first impressions of Chris McKenna as GH’s new Jack Brennan? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
My first impression is who cares gh is making this a bigger story than it is who carez
I care. I liked the other Jack. This one doesn’t even have an accent if I remember correctly. Wish Charles Mesure would have stayed.
Me too he could have at least faked the accent!
Oh please – the only fake accent viewers seem willing to accept is Lois’. Michael Knight was criticized for his “colonel sanders” accent for Martin, which thankfully he discontinued when returning to the show this past fall.
Even John York (who tried an Aussie accent back in the 90s) eventually dropped it.
Heh, Colonel Sanders! The goatee vanished with the Kentucky Fried accent and all the better for it.
I don’t feel that Lois’s accent is foisted on us, I feel that SHE is! Can’t stand that buttinsky, butting in everyone’s lives, now hiring a lawyer for her daughter, she’s totally outrageous!
Totally agree.. There was no chemistry what so ever between him & Laura (Carly).. And this Jack is not Carly’s type at all.. ♀️
I am sure he is has experience he just does not fit the part
Me too! The two of them had more chemistry than is legally allowed! If Charles decided to go they should’ve let James ((Val) off him.
Not impressed at all. He is not convincing in the role.
I was so disappointed when the role was recast. That kiss he planted in Carly was honestly the hottest event in months on GH. I did like McKenna on YR and was sad to see him go. I will def give him a chance and his hair is quite stunning. But I still prefer Mesure. Will we ever find out why he chose to leave
You said it, and we never got to see any scenes after they closed the door, what a let down!
I like the new Jack I used to watch him as Joey Buchanan when he was 12 years old Welcome to General Hospital
I agree with comments.
No chemistry between Carly and the new Jack.
Prefer the old Jack.
Not impressed!
That was a whole different role
Gorgeous hairy sexy gorgeous man Chris
Measure had much better chemistry with Laura Wright. Now I find the pair a snooze to watch.
I will give him time, but Charles Mesure was very good in the role. Hope to watch him in whatever project he is involved with next. The spark between Charles and Laura Wright certainly felt real.
Loved Charles Mesure as Jack there was indeed a spark there for Laura Wright that isn’t seen from the new guy.
Agreed!!! The twinkle was REAL!
I’ll give it a little time, but first impression was meh.
Mesure made his presence known in every scene. We’ll see if McKenna can handle the meaty stuff. Glad he didn’t attempt a fake accent.
I like him OK and he looks very familiar.I never watched him on young and the restless or one life to live, but I’ve seen him in something.Now he has an American accent.I’m going to miss the British accent
He only looks familiar to you, yet you miss his British accent, you sound ridiculous!
It was great to see Chris McKenna. I enjoyed him so much as a young teen on One Life to Live. Seeing him all grown up brought a tear to my eye. During their brief scene, I thought he and Laura Wright worked well off each other. I think there could be some fire between them.
I agree.
Doesn’t look like an agent, no chemistry between him as and Laura.
Agree 100%
What does an agent look like?
He’s handsome enough, but I don’t feel the chemistry between him and Carly like I did with Jack.
NOT A GOOD RECAST AT ALL.
BRENNAN WAS AUSSIE. CASTING A PERSON WITH NI ACCENT JUST DOESN’T FIT.
AND SORRY, NOT SORRY BUT HIS HAIR DON’T LOOKS LIKE A 2ND GRADE BOYS HAIRCUT.
The chemistry between Laura Wright and Charles Mesure was off the charts. McKenna is a dud !! Sorry, I see what is NOT there..CHEMISTRY !! He has more of a brotherly vibe .
YES! BROTHERLY VIBE!
Carly and Mesure were hot hot hot! I rather you get rid of the character than have this guy. There is No chemistry he cannot fill the shoes!!! With mesure and Carly You didn’t wanna look away and you smiled the whole entire time. Looking forward to their scenes. They had great chemistry. It made the show. I don’t look forward to watching it now.
Absolutely!!
Agreed. They had chemistry and no disrespect to Laura Wright but I get the feeling that Charles Measure is so crackling with charisma that he’d have chemistry with a Chia Pet. He even had chemistry with Valentin.
Harry, agree 100%, yum!
Charles Mesure much more handsome ! I hated the recast!
He definitely was more handsome!!
Honestly? Not half-bad. It is different? Yes. But it isn’t half-bad. Look forward to seeing what he may be able to do in the role moving forward.
Yuck! Nothing great. Doesn’t compare to the chemistry that was between Carly and the Charles Mesure, Brennan. Very disappointed.
He does not fit the position as Charles did. Maybe Chris could be placed elsewhere! I may find another way to spend my free time.
Don’t like the recast. Very disappointed.
Chris McKenna is a great actor. I remember him as Joey on OLTL. But no chemistry with Lsura Wright. Charles MESURE was perfect for Jack Brennan. Mysterious and sexy! Mesure was SO MUCH BETTER AS JACK BRENNAN! I wish Charles MESURE a speedy recovery and the best of health!
Who said anything about C.M being ill, he just quit?
Talk about toxic fandom. The guy has 4 scenes as a replacement for a very popular actor and people are ready to write him and the show off because of his first day. There’s no point in comparing him with Charles Mesure. He’s not hired to imitate Charles Mesure, and he can’t be Charles Mesure. But if given a chance, he could make the role his own. He did just fine for a first-day recast. His eyes twinkled and the little smiles with Carly on the plane. Then getting down to business with his henchwoman.
You are right on!
Well said! Give it some time. I enjoyed his scenes with Joss today, so I think he continue to get better in the role.
I’m not happy with this I’m 80 years old and looked forward to watching Charles and Laura interact.
I’m not impressed I want Charles back, did he get let go I would like to here from him
I do not like the change. The original actor has hot and had great chemistry with Carly. I do not like these two together at all. Sorry GH you ruined a great couple.
Charles quit
Ok. The guy quit yall. This dude is a hottest to me. And I don’t mind that he doesn’t have an accent. I’m fine with him.
Just another bad recast. Does the casting director ever have the potential actor/actress read with whom they will be paired with? I’m tired of these no chemistry couples
Charles said he had a good read with Laura Wright, so it sounds promising.
He did chem-test with Laura Wright.
There is a YouTube soap video, whether it is true or not.. but it claims Charles felt ” there was too much memorizing of long scripts” that he didn’t feel up too. Not certain if there is any truth to it… as with most things in today’s world…
I am will to give Chris a go, but do miss Charles.
The other Jack had an edge to him which suited him so well for the role that he was playing. Cunning, charming with an air of mystery. It was just so strange him leaving when they were getting to the intimate playful part of the relationship. Then you have this new character popping up with no chemistry as of yet speaking of very intimate conversations. Not feeling it
Bring back the other Jack.
Oh my goodness. I’m a few episodes behind and I had no idea about this. Jack Brennan/Charles Mesure was winning me over the last few months. This is unfortunate. Wow. I hope he’s happy though and I wish him well. I will miss seeing him on the show.
I liked Charles Measure as Jack. He was sexy & had really good sexual chemistry with Laura. Wright (Carly). If the other Jack can’t come back, put Carly with Jason or Sonny.
Don’t like him he doesn’t have class like jack
Thanks but No thanks! You definitely could have done a better job at picking the new Jack Brennan
While I don’t have anything against him he does not have the carisma and accent that makes Carly and Brennan have that spark
I said what hell who is this guy
I like the Australian much better, but that’s just my opinion. We’ll have to wait and see if this guy comes up with the same charisma as he had right now no.
I like him and I hope GH keeps him!!
No I definitely liked the other Jack this guy just don’t fit the part not as handsome is the other Jack I was all excited when Jack and Carly got together not much anymore plus no accent!!!
Bring back the original
This one is not believable as jack brennan
McKenna did a very good job as Jack.
Do not like he has no chemistry with Carly. And has no accent. Should have cast someone closer in looks and accent. Which the other Jack would reconsider and come back other wise this does not work.
I don’t like this one I really like the old Jack. And as a 50 year loyal fan, was really only watching it for the old Jack. Everything else is starting to fall apart.
While there are certainly problems with some storylines, as someone whose watched almost as long as you, I find it hard to believe you were pinning all your hopes on a non-core character introduced only a year ago.
New “Jack” has great hair. Old “Jack” had a quiet, forceful presence, allure, mystery, someone I couldn’t wait to peel the layers, unpack the box within a box.
I prefer Charles Mesure. !!!! Wish he would return asap. I see no chemistry therefore I don’t care to watch the new actor.
Nothing against this actor except he doesn’t look mysterious and doesn’t speak forebodingly either. Measure and Carly had a better connection, but I’ll give this guy some time.
My first impression was geez. What has GH done now. I like the old Jack much better. Loved his accent and voice. I hope Mesure Decides to return.
Why are people so upset about this? It’s not like the new actor had anything to do with Charles Mesure leaving. And Jack Brennan isn’t even a major character on the show. I like Chris McKenna. I thought he was good in the four scenes he’s been in. I’ve seen Chris McKenna in other roles, and he’s a good actor. I know a lot of fans won’t give him a chance because they love Charles Measure (who I think is great), but I’m looking forward to seeing what Chris will bring to the role. Charles Mesure was a joy to watch, but I don’t mind the change. Chris is very brave to take on a role that I didn’t realize was so popular. I’m rooting for him.
Just one little remark, he was BETTER than some of the major characters, fresh and exciting, not all dull and boring like some of the ” old timers”.
I really really really want Charles M. back. He and Carly were perfect with each other. This new Jack Brennan has all the sex appeal of a wet sponge.
No I prefer Charles Mesure.
Please bring Charles Measure back!!! He’s an Aussie and very handsome. Love his personality. Charles and Carly make a great couple. Give Charles more money so he will stay!! We want Charles Measure back on GH!!!!!!
Then I suggest you speak with Charles Mesure, because it was his choice to leave the show. I haven’t heard or read anything to indicate that money was the issue. In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me to hear that he was offered more money and still decided to leave.
What does surprise me is that the only signed him to a one-year contract in the first place. Maybe that’s the new norm, but three years used to be standard
Hi Michael.
Charles only just completed 13 weeks (first cycle) of his contract. Prior to that, he was on recurring.
Don’t care for this new guy we want Charles back!!!!
Sucks no personality at all like a wet noodle.
Please get someone else
Bring old jack back. No offense to new guy but he’ll never be jack brennan.
TOTALLY TRUE. This one is awful. He is so knuckle-dragging, meat and potatoes. NOT at all slick enough for Carly. BAD recast. Not convincing… I’d rather see Jim DePaiva or Dave Cubitt
I like dePaiva too, but I think he’s about 70 now, isn’t he? So probably a little old for this role. I’m not familiar with Mr. Cubitt.
McKenna will do just fine in the role.
DePaiva was already on GH about 7 years ago as a doctor that harassed Kiki.
Not a good recast. He doesn’t have that same air of mystery/intrigue. Thumbs down!!!!!!!
so true
Nope
Breaking News
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards Presenters Announced

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

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

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.

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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