General Hospital
GH’s Rick Hearst Weighs-in on the Women in Ric Lansing’s Life and Where Things Could Go From Here with Ava, Elizabeth and Alexis
Since returning to General Hospital in August of 2024, Rick Hearst has found his character of attorney Ric Lansing still using some underhanded tactics if it will benefit him, but perhaps learning from a few of the errors of his ways, since being away from the ABC daytime drama for eight years.
Since returning to Port Charles, Ric has been present for his daughter Molly (Kristen Vaganos) in her time of need, who at this point still has no idea that it was her sister, Kristina (Kate Mansi) who got the brakes to Ric’s car with Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst) in the passenger seat; when she had intent on hurting Ava (Maura West). Since that time, Ava and Ric have been blackmailing Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn) for Cassadine moolah in order not to turn evidence into the police of how Kristina almost killed them.
Now in 2025, Ric’s relationships with the women in his life, Ava, Elizabeth and Alexis are all put to the test in different ways. During Hearst’s visit to the Michael Fairman Channel for a livestream conversation on his enduring career which has spanned not only GH, but roles on Guiding Light, Days of our Lives, The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless, the three-time Daytime Emmy-winning actor weighed-in on each of the three women, and where things could or could not go from here.
Photo: ABC
AVA and RIC
First, Rick shared on working alongside another three-time Daytime Emmy winner, Maura West: “What an absolute doll. She’s just an extraordinary actress. I admired her from afar from years ago when she was on As the World Turns (ex-Carly), and I was on Guiding Light (ex-Alan-Michael). It’s very interesting. We were doing an appearance together, and so many people were bringing up the past of Ric Lansing. She was like, ‘Wait a minute, you did what?’ I’m like, “Yeah, yeah, yeah. Just ‘la la la. .. just put your fingers in your ears. You didn’t hear that.’ We’ve moved on from that period. So, it’s nice I guess, not to revisit that in a way that causes characters to dismiss and spit on him to where there’s no relevance to the character anymore.”
As to the Ava and Ric connection, Hearst explained, “They are two baddies and two pariahs that get a chance to at least kind of wink and nod at one another and go, ‘I know you.’ However, at the same time, they can walk down the same path with each other and be aware enough of each other and still enjoy one another at the same time. You know, they make strange bedfellows as it were.”
During the livestream, a fan asked if Rick sees Ava and Ric eventually moving in together, Hearst responded, “That’s not in the cards right now, but I think it would be great comedy, because to see the two of them have to do the ‘Were you done in the bathroom?’ Stuff like that would be really, really fun to play. We started to kind of do that when Ava was broke, which I thought was kind of funny. I think they have real feelings for each other, though.”
ELIZABETH AND RIC
Hearst confirms that, “Yes, Elizabeth, that’s who has always been the deep true love of Ric’s life. When I say ‘love of his life,’ it’s the first time he ever allowed himself to be somebody he had always maybe wanted to be. As they’ve grown older they understood all these different things that he’s done, you know, locking Carly in the panic room, drugging her and drugging Elizabeth, and on and on. As horrible as they are, every character at some point, if they’ve been around each other for as long as these characters have been around one another 20 years, collectively, you got to be able to look in the mirror and go, “Yeah, well, I’m not that squeaky clean, either.'”
Photo: ABC
When seeing Liz with another man, Rick shares, “It’s a great torture for Ric to always see her with somebody else. I have to remember it, because they have me leaning into always finding opportunities to be her friend. Ric is her friend, but they have that other kind of relationship with one another. She keeps the door open in that way. Ric always hopes for more. The interesting thing is she says, ‘I’m not ready to have a relationship with anybody.’ But, Lucky Spencer (Jonathan Jackson) comes back into town all of a sudden, she’s seeing Lucky. So, Ric is like, ‘Was it anybody … or was it just me?”‘
ALEXIS AND RIC
Perhaps, there is nothing better than the comedic scenes between Rick Hearst and Nancy Lee Grahn as bitter exes, Ric and Alexis. Hearst says, “Do I ever see Alexis and Rick getting back together? For half a hot second, I thought that they would at least like lean into one another, but unfortunately, clearly that hasn’t happened. The apology scenes for both of us, that’s one that I really loved. Ric said, ‘I apologize.’ She goes, ‘Well, I accept your apology.’ And Ric says, ‘And… I accept yours.’ Then, Alexis says, ‘I didn’t apologize.’ And Ric’s like, ‘There’s still time!’ It’s stuff like that. I heard some fans saying, ‘It would be great if they just had hate-sex for a minute.’ Anything is possible.”
Photo: ABC
THE FUTURE
In summation, Rick is extremely happy with his GH return, expressing, “I’m having a brilliant time with all the ladies there. They have such definitive characters in their own right, obviously, that I can slide in with each of them in scenes. I feel like the getting back at Alexis for everything is from that part of Ric wanting to just be so angry with his own mother. The part where he just wants to be loved unconditionally is very much with Liz, and the part where he’s figured out his survival instincts and his ability to do so, would be to be with somebody like an Ava.”
Photo: ABC
As for a preview of what lies ahead, Hearst teased, “Where the relationships all kind of go is in Ric’s future. Whether he’ll continue forward with Ava and that turns into something even more, or something pushes him in her direction more, whether he continues to hope for Liz or, you know, has a power outage with Alexis and it’s time to get busy! (Laughs).”
Photo: ABC
Now weigh-in: who do you think is the woman best suited for Ric Lansing? Ava, Alexis or Elizabeth? Share your thoughts via the comment section. But first, in case you missed it, check out our livestream conversation with Rick Hearst below.
I hope Ric stays in PC for a long time. He’s the fun bad guy. Not dangerous like Jenz. Not a pariah like Drew. Just a fun guy, who has good chemistry with those he acts with. I like having him as the male veteran lawyer – better than Scotty.
Scotty who? It feels like Scotty and Lesiel left town and didn’t tell a soul. Not that us, the viewers saw them leave either… just another one of those thing that make you go hmmm while watching.
Something must’ve happened behind the scenes with Kin Shriner. If he’s not back when they eventually do Monica’s funeral, it may be some time before see Scott again.
As for Liesl, the time is ideal for her return. Nina desperately needs her dastardly aunt in bringing down Drew. A surprise appearance at next week’s Nurses Ball, would be a great way say welkomen to Frau Obrecht.
Rick can actually act unlike Kin Shriner.
I agree. I like having him around—-What bugs me is why Kristina is allowed to get away with attempted murder . Two people could have died. And, if Ava were in the car that would make it three. Plus, Lucky is also a criminal by keeping his silence. He is “aiding and abetting “ , as it were, no?
Now you have Lucky going out of his way to protect Kristina. Alexis is a huge enabler. She should have taken Diane’s advice and had that hateful nut committed. Instead, she stupidly allowed herself to be blackmailed by Ava.
I love Rick. Miss him as Alan Michael on Guiding Light, but very much enjoy him on GH. Hoping he and Ava get a bit more time together:)
I think Ric’s perfect match is Ava. They are both equally despicable together and would make a good thorn in Sonny’s side. But it might be fun to see a Ric, Ava and Alexis triangle.
But I’m rooting for Lucky and Elizabeth to survive this dreadful storyline the writers dragged them into. I hope Lucky tells Liz the truth about what Kristina did and they discover Ric is blackmailing Alexis.
Although bigger splashes were implied with Steve Burton and Jonathan Jackson’s returns, it was Rick Hearst who made the biggest impact – despite seldomly sharing the screen with his character’s half brother.
What was originally touted as a short term return has blossomed into Ric being a vital part of the current canvas.
I was looking forward to Ric’s return and yet, he still exceeded all of my expectations. I don’t normally use this word but he exhibits such class with his perfectly paced delivery. I was also looking forward to Lucky’s return but it’s clear he reentered with a whimper and not a bang. It doesn’t help that his front burner storyline involves covering up Kristina’s crime. Kristina, a dimwitted, mediocre, reckless, selfish loser who still manages to get a swirl of devotees to circle the wagons to protect her from herself. She ain’t worth it.
Rick Hearst’s return as Ric Lansing has been a highlight; it’s the return I think people expected Jonathan Jackson’s Lucky to be. And his chemistry with Maura West (Ava) is undeniable. They are THE couple to beat!!!
I like Ricks summation, great chemistry with all three ladies, in different ways, its perfect, and I hope they keep it going, I know people like to pair up couples, so obviously he’s with Ava romantically, but its a rare thing to have chemistry with three different characters for different reasons and as a fan its great seeing and enjoying it on screen.
Great points, Aria.
Great actor Can have chemistry with anyone Like him with Ava but wouldn’t mind him having a crazy relationship with Alexis to remind her who is the boss
Rick Hearst has chemistry with all of his ladies from over the years. He’d have chemistry with a potted plant. But he and Maura West have a special thing going. They’ve struck gold with Ric and Ava. You always need a couple that schemes and blackmails together, that can mix it up with anyone on the canvas. They can do drama, romance, comedy, whatever a particular storyline or scene calls for.
I’ve very much enjoyed Rick’s return, hope he sticks around for a while. I agree with those that say that his return has been better and more impactful to the show than either Steve Burton or Jonathan Jackson.
Anyone who has seen Maura West’s Carly with Hunt Block’s Craig would agree with your assessment of the facets of an unholy duo lololol! The parking garage scene in particular was as hilarious as it was shocking, especially given the time period.
“Maura West’s Carly with Hunt Block’s Craig” ? What show are you referring too?
They’re referring to As The World Turns
Oh ok, thanks Dan.
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
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 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
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.
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Rosie O’Donnell Says She Will Return to ‘The View’ During its Season 30
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GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
‘General Hospital’ Fan Club Weekend 2026 (Photos)
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GH Alum Nicholas Alexander Chavez Lands Role in Paramount’s Remake of ‘Possession’
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Rosie O’Donnell Says She Will Return to ‘The View’ During its Season 30
WWE SummerSlam 2026 Night Two: Top 5 Takeaways
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
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