General Hospital

GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sam’s Loved Ones Gather For Her Memorial Service in an Emotional Tearjerker

By Michael Fairman

Published

2 years ago

November 20, 2024

Michael

Courtesy/ABC

It was time for the memorial service for Sam McCall. An emotional day that viewers of ABC’s General Hospital have been, on one hand looking forward as it would bring closure for the character and hopefully bring a proper goodbye, while others are still devastated over the decision to let longtime GH vet, Kelly Monaco, go after 21-years on the series.

On Tuesday’s November 19th episode, Sam’s family and friends are now at the church and the memorial gets started right at the top of the show. There were numerous remembrances and retrospective clips as many of Sam’s longest relationships in town spoke on her virtues, her love of danger, her leather jacket, her giving nature, her understated ways, and why she was a wonderful daughter, sister, partner, and more.

Molly (Kristen Vaganos) was the first to speak and she made the point that with Sam, they (along with sister, Kristina) were known as the “Davis girls” and were always a family. She went on to say that Sam was the quiet and calming sister who one could go to for advice. In a hankie-moment Molly said that now there will be only three sets of arms in the Davis girls hugs in the future. However, Sam will always be there with them. Next, Kristina (Kate Mansi) said a few words on how Sam was always her safety net and would not judge her and that she believed in second chances. As she spoke, we see Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn) and Molly holding on to each other and in tears.

Courtesy/ABC

Perhaps, one of the most emotional speeches came from Spinelli (Bradford Anderson), and for longtime viewers, it was Sam that brought Jason (Steve Burton) and Spinelli together. Spinelli spoke of how as a techy-nerd, she was one of the first people to befriend him. He flashes back to when Sam was going to try to help him work out more to build more muscle to help win the love of Maxie. He weeps that his “Fair Samantha” gave him the confidence to fall for the woman of his dreams. We cut to Maxie crying in the church.

Carly (Laura Wright) and Liz (Rebecca Herbst) speak on their contentious relationships with Sam over the years but how they learned to respect her. Lucky (Jonathan Jackson) speaks, and in a heart-tugging moment says that Sam saved his sister Lulu’s life when he and his brother, Nikolas, couldn’t. He hates that Sam lost her life in the process. He doesn’t know why she was taken from them, but their family will forever be in her debt.

Courtesy/ABC

In another hankie-inducing moment, it’s time for Dante (Dominic Zamporgna) to speak. He recounts the dark patch he hit in his life with his terrible bout of PTSD and how Sam stepped up to be there for him, and how their friendship turned to love. Dante promises he’s going to do what she would want him to do and that is to keep going. Dante looks at Sam’s portrait and says through his tears, that he’ll always love her. He looks over at Sam’s children and tells them he loves them all too, and that will never change.

If you wanted more heartbreak, it was when Rocco (Finn Carr) and Danny (Asher Antonyzyn) both spoke. Rocco goes first and tells the attendees just how wonderful Sam was to him as a a stepmom. He goes on to say he is so thankful to her for giving him a brother, Danny, and his sister, Scout. In fact, Sam and Rocco shared secret handshake, and he wants to teach it to Danny and Scout now. As Rocco says this from the pulpit, Danny cries.

Courtesy/ABC

Later, it is Jason and Danny together who address those gathered for Sam’s service. Jason goes first and says he is so grateful for the love and the time that he and Sam spent together. Danny speaks about the different things his mom loved. First, she loved to go fast. Next, she loved a good black leather jacket, and they are going to give hers to Scout when she’s older. Then, she loved Noodle Buda’s Chinese food. However, Danny closed his speech in his most heart-tugging moment of all. Danny shares how much Sam loved him, Scout, and Rocco.

Courtesy/ABC

As the service came to its conclusion, it was Sam’s grieving mother, Alexis, who attempts to read her prepared speech about her exceptional daughter. However, she ends up tossing it and speaking from the heart. She says that Sam “choosing” her to be her mother, and letting her in, years after they found each other, was so profound to her. She says that Sam was not just her daughter, but her friend, and she didn’t know if she could have raised Molly and Kristina without Sam, as she was her anchor. Alexis shares the only way to properly honor her daughter is to be brave just like she was. So with that, Alexis reveals through her tears, she won’t grieve long, or get lost in sorrow, but will cheer Sam on to her next great adventure. As she concludes she looks up and says, “Thank you for choosing me, my angel.”

Courtesy/ABC

Sadly, in a very powerful and poignant moment, after everyone has left the memorial, Alexis is left sitting there alone. Kristina and Molly find her. Alexis says she doesn’t want to leave and asks the girls to sit with her, as this will be the last time they will all be together with Sam.

Cut to: Lulu (the debut of Alexa Havins) waking up in the hospital.

So, what did you think of Sam McCall’s memorial service? What moments had you reaching for the hankies? Share your thoughts via the comment section, but first watch Spinelli’s farewell to his dear friend below.

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8 Comments

oldest

newest

OG Steve

1 year ago

Some powerful performances from Nancy, Kristen, Bradford, Becky, Dominic and Finn. If Nancy doesn’t win best actress next year, I’d be shocked. The flashbacks were well chosen. Some vintage Sam-Elizabeth and they even showed Sam in her relationship with Sonny.

Despite a short violin solo (which was not in Sam’s rock and roll style) Gio did not need to be there and was a seat filler. Gio’s place in the pew could’ve logically been filled Jordan, Felicia or Laura – all contract performers.

As for Lulu finally waking up… girl’s been in a coma for 4 years. She’s not going to have the motor skills to move her arm like she did. The whole scene should’ve been saved for a different episode.

GH fan

Reply to OG Steve

1 year ago

I hope Gio’s character develops more and he doesn’t become one of those ” what ever happened with” character. Perhaps a Quartermaine.

OG Steve

Reply to GH fan

1 year ago

The mystery about Gio has already dissipated. Many were speculating he was Dante and BLQ’s offspring. That faded because Dante has story mapped out with Lulu for a while. Also, last week, Brook Lynn made a point to say Lois can’t keep a secret. So, BLQ is not involved in the secret.

Gio is not Sonny’s kid, as Benard has gone on record saying Sonny doesn’t need any more children (regardless of age).

So, the odds of Gio becoming the next Dev, Rafe or Rory are pretty good.

Melissa

Reply to OG Steve

2 months ago

Lol, this didn’t age well.

OG Steve

Reply to Melissa

2 months ago

Normally, I would ignore this, but you’re commenting on a post from 18 months ago?

Richard

1 year ago

Bottom line you let go of an actress that people loved ! We get that everyone at the show can act but honestly gh it runs deeper. Sam will be missed so your need for more daytime Emmy’s means nothing

aria

1 year ago

where was Laura? we know she wasn’t with Lulu, Anna could’ve of also attended and at least represent the Drakes, since Robin and Patrick and Emma were not there. It was just an ok ceremony to a character that deserved better, The actors as usual are always good, but I wasn’t crying since I was more annoyed for this pointless storyline, I keep waiting for a miracle twist, but as I said this year 2024 for GH is a bust for me as a viewer, The actors though top of their game as usual. hight light was Drew not speaking his fakeness is unbearable to watch.

Les

1 year ago

How ultimately soap opera that at the very moment Sam’s funeral is taking place they have Lulu wake up

General Hospital

GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob

Published

10 hours ago

August 3, 2026

Michael

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

‘General Hospital’ Fan Club Weekend 2026 (Photos)

Published

20 hours ago

August 2, 2026

Michael

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

Published

2 days ago

August 1, 2026

Michael

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.