General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sean Donely’s Funeral Brings Unexpected & Emotional Moments for His Friends and Loved Ones
If you caught Friday’s emotional episode of General Hospital, it was the airing of the highly-anticipated tribute episode to the late John Reilly with an homage to his beloved character, Sean Donely.
What made this such a well-conceived hour of television was it truly harkened back to the 80’s hey day of GH, had a built-in story that brought Reilly’s real-life daughter, Caitlin Reilly, into the fold, found ways to integrate classic clips of Sean and his spy friends and colleagues, and viewers even got to hear the voice of the one and only Sharon Wyatt as Tiffany Hill Donely.
Photo: ABC
The episode starts in Ireland where Sean’s gravesite service has concluded and things are icy between Anna (Finola Hughes) and Felicia (Kristina Wagner). As Anna tries to reach out to Felicia she is not having it, but Mac (John J. York) hopes the two longtime best friends will find a way to work this out.
Meanwhile, Annie (Caitlin Reilly) points Sean’s friends (who have traveled all the way from Port Charles to Ireland to be there for the funeral) to the Inn where they will be staying. Robert talks to Annie about applying to the bureau. She says she went through the training program, took the oath, but was never called for the final test. She just assumed she didn’t make the cut. Robert also explains they need access to some of Sean’s old files on another matter of dire consequences, but Annie won’t give up the code.
Photo: ABC
As Laura (Genie Francis) goes outside to call Tiffany, we hear the voice of Sharon Wyatt talk to her dear friend, the Mayor of Port Charles, and Laura tells Tiffany how much she misses her old friend, as Tiffany recall her life with Sean and viewers see a montage of Sean and Tiffany scenes through the years. Next, Laura is grabbed and a clue is left behind in her room – a Mexican flag and a toy gun as a remembrance of when Sean ran illegal arms and was on the wrong side of the law. Next, Monica (Leslie Charleson) is seemingly grabbed, and a clue is left behind, a trinket from Mount Rushmore.
Courtesy/ABC
Later, Felicia rips into Anna for allowing Peter into their lives and not protecting Maxie. Anna promises Felicia she’s trying to put Peter behind bars for good and to find justice for Maxie. As Felicia and Anna flashback through moments in their lives with Sean, Felicia tells Anna that he would not have wanted them to be at odds and so she forgives Anna, and the two women hug as Mac looks on.
Photo: ABC
Mac is the next friend of Sean’s to apparently get kidnapped. That is followed by Robert (Tristan Rogers) getting conked over the head. Annie finds Robert’s phone, and she finds a magnet in Anna’s purse which wiped out the computer earlier that Anna and Robin (Kimberly McCullough) were trying to access to check the security footage at the Inn.
Annie now believes Anna and Robert are in on what’s happening. Anna again says she wants access to Sean’s file, but Annie refuses to grant access to her. She says she’s loyal to the WSB. It is then Anna tells Annie that this was her final test for the WSB and she passed it! As all of Sean’s friends who ‘disappeared’ return to watch, Robert gives Annie her dad’s WSB badge number and they congratulate her in a very hankie-inducing moment.
Later, everyone gathers to toast Sean, as they raise their glass it is Tristan Rogers, who broke our hearts when he says there will never be another one like Sean. In real life, Tristan was close to John Reilly and publicly had admitted how devastated he was by his former castmates passing.
Photo: ABC
In Port Charles, it was nice to see Bobbie (Jackie Zeman) and Maxie (Kirsten Storms) part of the tribute episode to, and in a touching scene BJ’s heart that beats inside Maxie was brought up reminding everyone of that emotional story as well.
Photo:A BC
The episode was filled with several hankie moments and how wonderful was Caitlin Reilly as Annie! Her dad would be so proud. And as for Finola Hughes, Kristina Wagner, Tristan Rogers, Kimberly McCullough, Leslie Charleson, Genie Francis, Sharon Wyatt by audio, how touching it was for longtime viewers to see all of these GH veterans together to remind us all of what brought us into GH in the first place.
Kudos to head writers, Chris Van Etten and Dan O’Connor and their team for a clever way to honor Sean Donely with the passage of his daughter into the WSB.
Photo: ABC
So, what did you think of the John Reilly tribute episode, the performances, and the story? Comment below. But first, watch some moments from the beginning of the episode where Laura calls Tiffany.
WATCH: Sean’s family and friends are about to get much more than they bargained for when they left Port Charles. #GH pic.twitter.com/JA2zCSogx6
— General Hospital (@GeneralHospital) May 22, 2021
John Reilly was fantastic as Sean and I remember him a bit with Tiffany and I’m sorry to hear of his passing. And, I’m sorry but I was heavily disappointed in this tribute, the only thing I truly enjoyed the most was the various flashbacks especially at the end with Sean & Tiffany’s wedding! That was a hoot and a holler.
The story where most of GH’s veterans hop-skip and jump to County Kerry, Ireland from New York in less than a day… really? (well, it is a 7+hour flight)… But, wouldn’t it have made more sense for the memorial to take place in Port Charles where stories with Sean, Anna, Felicia, Frisco, etc, etc. took place? The daughter Annie, could’ve flown out to lay Sean’s ashes somewhere important in Port Charles. Don’t get me started on the foolish writing just to test Annie – who became a WSB agent in the “test” of vanishing characters. Silliness! I expected more from GH.
However, I will say, that all I could think about besides the passing of John Reilly… was… why didn’t GH casting cast Caitlin Reilly (Annie), as the new-LULU! I kept watching her and thought she’d be perfect for a LULU recast. In my opinion, I think GH missed it big-time with the tribute. And, there were scenes with Peter (in Port Charles with Maxie – so gross). I look forward to read what others felt about this so-called “tribute”.
I’m sure the reality of losing a beloved friend was the biggest reason for the captivating and convincing scenes that played out onscreen. That being said, the writing and the acting are superb on GH right now also. I’m an avid DAYS fan, but have to say GH is by far the best soap on the air right now.
I absolutely loved it — hearing Sharon‘s voice again was so moving, knowing all that she has gone through over the past decade. Hats off to the writers and the actors…a fitting tribute to a beloved cast member. Well done!
The piece de resistance was Sharon Wyatt as Tiffany Hill Donely! Everything else was icing on the cake!
Overall, we’ll done. The right cast members were there (knowing Jack Wagner wouldn’t return, which would’ve been awkward anyway). This had to take place in “Ireland” to explain why other characters (not necessarily key to story) couldn’t be there. Each of the characters featured had meaning interaction with Sean and/or Tiffany back in the day.
Always a treat when Robin makes an appearance. And the year-plus absence of Felicia on screen was handled well by giving Kristina Wagner some meaty material. Hopefully, she’s back on a semi-regular basis.
I even understand why Peter was in the episode. For lapsed viewers returning for this “very special episode” something needed to be shown as to why Felicia was so mad at Anna. Luckily, his appearance was short and Bobbie showed him who’s still in charge after 40+ years.
Would I have liked more clips, sure, however I know it’s difficult finding scenes that were airable. Any scenes featuring Sean that had a character not on Friday’s episode (i.e. Frisco) would’ve meant paying the actor for a flashback. Was the Anna & Felicia talking pizza scene riveting? No, but it was still fun to remind us of their 30+ year bond. Best flashback was the fight on the gondola.
Kudos to the writers and producers for giving longtime viewers (and John Reilly) a darn good episode.
I think it was a hit and miss for me, as viewers we always want more more more, but overall I liked the episode, I was confuse in the beginning with Laura and Monica first disappearing and everything that was taking place but then In the end when it was explained it made more sense and the episode enjoyable, I wish they would bring in the Annie character into the fold w/ her now being a WSB agent it would be great if some international plot would take place in port Charles. She is after all the daughter of two legacy characters and goddaughter of Anna.
Still waiting for Jessie Brewer’s tribute episode … 30 years later.
Absolutely fantastic point, Kian! Emily McLaughlin’s Jessie Brewer was an iconic character and should have been given a tribute. I meant to reply to you sooner…
Plus, if memory serves, I think Bobbie and/or Steve Hardy made a comment, years after the fact, that Jessie had passed away.
I didn’t watch GH back in those days but was well aware of Mr. Reilly’s work there. I thought the hour was well written and gave the vets I love to watch, some really good material. I mean, how great was Ms. Wagner’s Felicia ripping into Ms. Hughes’ Anna? Miss that lady on GH. And Caitlin Reilly was wonderful as Annie. She really held her own against such power performers. It was also nice to see Mr. York back in action as Mac, Ms. Charleson back as Monica, Ms. Zeman back as Bobbie and Ms. McCullough as Robin again. I don’t know why Ms. Wyatt couldn’t be on but it was so wonderful to hear her voice.
Like I said, I didn’t watch GH back when these actors were at the forefront, but I really appreciate any soap that pays homage to their vets.
Great job to all!
Enjoyed the episode so much! A throwback to the 80s GH adventure/mystery storylines, tied up neatly in an hour, lol; a worthy tribute to the Sean Donnelly character. The actor’s daughter did a phenomenal job jumping into the storyline and holding her own, I thought. Glad that Tiffany had a part to play – it wouldn’t have been as satifying if she had been absent from the show, and I’m glad the writers found a way to include her which was acceptable to the actress!
Hooray for the vets and showcasing their loyalty and talents! Bring back Felicia and Mac more regularly; what a waste of characters that should be enriching the storylines and character interactions across the canvas!
Thank you writers and all who gifted longtime fans (and actors) with this fun hour. Kudos to all!
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 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.
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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