Breaking News
‘As the World Turns’ Favorite Van Hansis is Cast as General Hospital’s New Lucas Jones
In an exciting piece of casting news, General Hospital has nabbed none other than Van Hansis (ex-Luke Snyder, As the World Turns) to take on the role of a recast Lucas Jones, the adopted son of the Bobbie Spencer (Jackie Zeman).
Hansis was one-half of the love story of Oakdale’s popular duo “Nuke” with Jake Silbermann (Noah), when he appeared on ATWT from 2005-2010. The two shared the first on-screen kiss between two gay male characters. Now, he comes to GH as openly gay doctor, Lucas Jones. Look for Van to first appear on GH on the upcoming October 4th episode, although a preemption is possible to do the Major League Baseball playoffs.
Taking on another gay character on the soaps is something Van is proud to be doing, telling TV Insider who broke the casting news, “I love that Lucas is not the only gay character on the show. I remember when Luke and Noah kissedr the first time, we had Entertainment Tonight come. And I get it, but it’s great that we’re in a place where it’s so casual, just like how it is in life. There are gay people in life so there should be gay people on soaps and queer people and trans people and all of that. So, the fact that it’s so ingrained and it’s not like ‘the gay character’ or ‘the gay storyline’ feels really nice.”

Photo: ABC
Previously, Hansis scored three Daytime Emmy nominations for his performances on As the World Turns in both the Younger Actor and Supporting Actor categories. After ATWT’s demise, he added four more Daytime Emmy nods for his work in the streaming series, EastSiders in the role of Thom.
Prior to Van, the role of GH’s Lucas Jones has been played by several different actors through the years including: Ryan Carnes from 2004-2005, and then Ben Hogestyn from 2005-2006. Later, Carnes returned to play Lucas for a major run in 2014-2020. Next, Matt Trudeau took over the part in 2020-2021. The last time we saw Lucas on the canvas was when Carnes returned for a two-episode visit as part of the memorial for his on-screen mother, Bobbie Spencer, in early 2024.

Photo: JPI
Those will recall, that Lucas is the biological son of the late Cheryl Stansbury and the late Julian Jerome. Lucas was eventually adopted by Bobbie Spencer Jones and Tony Jones during their marriage. Van shares a connection to one of the greatest actresses ever, in Maura West (ex-Carly, ATWT, now Ava, GH). Hansis detailed the story of what happened when he saw Maura at the GH studios for the first time, but now as Lucas Jones.

Photo: JPI
“She didn’t know I got cast and I was coming out of a wardrobe fitting she was grabbing her wardrobe for the day. This was the day that we had scenes together and she just looked at me and it was like she saw a ghost,” related Hansis. “She was like, ‘Van?’ And she gave me a big hug and then she was like, ‘Wait, are you Lucas?’ And I was like, ‘Yeah,’ and she screamed so loudly that the security guard came down to see because they thought somebody was getting hurt or something. I have always loved Maura so much. Being on World Turns, my first job I ever did, watching certain actors on that show, I was like, ‘Oh, my God, these people are so good,’ and she was definitely one of them. I think I had more scenes with her that day (on GH]) that we shot together than I ever had with her on As The World Turns. I was always watching her from afar. So then getting to actually work with her — she’s my aunt — is really, really something.”
Now that Parry Shen is back as Brad Cooper on the GH canvas, could it be that Lucas and Brad will reunite? Stay tuned.
What do you think of Van Hansis coming on to General Hospital as the new Lucas Jones? Comment below.
Why? Where’s Ryan Carnes?
He was offered the role, and refused it to pursue other projects.
The Devil is always #Team Spencers, so it’s good to see any of them returning, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say I would have preferred Ryan Carnes.
I’m guessing they wouldn’t have bothered with a “known” actor for a recast if Lucas was only coming back for another funeral (his bio-sister Sam). Of course the CBS soaps never aired down here, so I’m not familiar with his previous work.
I also would have loved to see Ryan Carnes return but I’m happy to see Lucas, Lucky and Lulu back on GH.
I don’t know this actor but I’m willing to give him a chance.
I’d be lying if I didn’t say I would have preferred Ryan Carnes.
Carnes was offered the chance to return, but declined due to other passion projects, ie: his music.
Would have liked to have Ryan back but it is great the character is returning
Great news! I’ll switch from Y&R to GH. I only starting watching Y&R for Colleen Zenk but, now love Tracie who is rarely on. I’ll only watch when she appears and maybe Diane and Adam. And I’ll always watch B&B for KKL.
I still miss ATWT and loved Luke, Noah, Brian, and Reid. Van is a fantastic actor. His scenes with Lawrence Lau were so powerful. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for him on GH.
Luke becomes Lucas:)
I very much liked Ryan in the role of Lucas, but if there is a new recast, Van is awesome, and bringing the ATWTs connection with Maura West/Aunt Ava Jerome/Carly Snyder. Hopefully this doctor will be at GH for a long time and ultimately will be crossing paths with Brad.
This is good casting. Ryan came back for Bobbie’s funeral out of respect for Jackie Z. Long term didn’t seem to be an option.
Whether or not Van is on contract remains to be seen. Using Kristen Vaganos’ breakout as Molly for an example, great acting can garner a contract and more prominent role.
It’s quite nice to see an openly gay actor to play an openly gay character.
I like this casting. If Ryan Carnes wasn’t available, as I read elsewhere that he wasn’t, then Van is a great Lucas recast.
I tuned into ATWT back in the day for Luke and Noah. Nobody was doing a front burner romance storyline between two young gay guys at the time, and they did it very well. Something GH hasn’t had the guts to attempt. They give lip service to doing gay storylines, and then promptly put them on the back burner, or end them altogether. Not only that, they can use some more familiar characters as doctors at the hospital. I hate when someone goes to the hospital, and they’re treated by some day player doctor that we’ve never seen before.
Hopefully this casting means they have some big plans in store for Lucas.
why is general hospital doing this why arent they bringing back ryan carnes its a mistake.
Because Ryan Carnes did not want to return; they offered to him first and, he declined, citing his other passion projects.
Well, now we know why Brad’s back on the canvass.
Now, I guess there should be some good scenes featuring Sam with Lucas and her tragic death.
He is so cute I’m so glad he’s back on daytime
I am such a big fan of Van’s! So thrilled he’s now on GH! Only hope that the writers do justice to the role of Lucas.
This is the casting I have wanted and asked for for a lifetime! I knew Van Hansis would be perfect for the role of Lucas Jones, and now that casting is coming true. It was nice seeing Ryan Carnes’ return earlier this year for the Jacklyn Zeman tribute episodes, and I did like Matt Trudeau in the short-term stint he had as Lucas from 2020–2021. But this is PERFECT casting, and knowing he’s being held as a series regular means there might [finally] be story coming for Lucas. And I am happy about that.
However, a big N-O to reuniting Brad & Lucas. Time to pair Lucas with someone else. What about returning Adam Grimes as Kyle Julian from Night Shift? That’d be an awesome pairing!
Breaking News
‘Santa Barbara’ Favorites A Martinez and Marcy Walker, ‘Cruz and Eden’ Reunion Chat, On Demand Replay Available for Half Price (Exclusive)
The love was felt around the world during the Sunday, June 7 livestream conversation featuring enduring Santa Barbara Daytime Emmy winners, A Martinez and Marcy Walker who played Cruz Castillo and Eden Capwell on the iconic NBC soap opera. The popular duo reunited for this special one-day only special event honoring their most memorable of daytime roles.
Santa Barbara was globally a hit, and nothing illustrated that more than having attendees from 20 countries and over four continents participate in and watch the live chat moderated by Melissa Braverman, the author of Santa Barbara: The Complete Story due out this fall.
While many were not able to purchase the initial livestream when the ticket costs were revealed to be $100, A Martinez previously clarified the event was to also raise money for Walker, who is currently facing a very serious health situation, now there is a way to catch the replay at half the price.

Courtesy: MBraverman
HOW YOU CAN STILL CATCH A AND MARCY’S LIVESTREAM
Michael Fairman TV can share exclusively that if you missed the chance to see and listen to what A and Marcy had to say, On demand access is available at the event link for a half price at $50 (guests can contribute up to $100 if they so chose). Like the livestream, 100% of On demand sales for the recording will be available for a limited time only, and also go toward Marcy’s medical expenses.
There was plenty of laughter, tears, and reminiscing through the the two and a half hour chat which included: some memorable footage and images from the love story of Cruz and Eden. At one point, Marcy reflected on the enduring impact and affection for Cruz and Eden. “You hope that whatever you do in this life, that you’ll make an impact of some kind,” expressed Walker. “It doesn’t have to necessarily be wrapped up in success or career or anything like that, but I think we all want desperately to feel like our time here blessed someone. To hear that somebody’s life was even a moment better because of what we did is a massive gift.

Photo: NBC
A AND MARCY’S DESIRE TO WORK TOGETHER AGAIN
In a moment that brought joy to those in attendance, A and Marcy both expressed a sincere hope and desire that one day they can work together again. Martinez explained, “There’s more avenues to pursue now than there have ever been. I would say just keep a good thought for it. I’ve been holding it for decades, and I fully intend to do whatever I can to make it happen. We’re engaged in trying to make it happen. And you know, we’ll see. I know we both want to do it.” Marcy simply nodded and responded “Amen.”
Melissa Braverman shared with Michael Fairman TV, her sentiments on hosting the Santa Barbara favorites. “Seeing A and Marcy together again, even virtually, was an absolute gift. It instantly reminded all of us why we fell so hard for Cruz and Eden in the first place. Their undeniable chemistry leaped off the screen and straight back into our hearts, proving that the magic they created all those years ago hasn’t faded one bit. Sharing in equal parts laughter and tears felt like catching up with old friends. It just meant the world to see them side-by-side again and to see how this incredible fandom showed up for Marcy during such an important time for her.”
So, if you attended the livestream chat with A Martinez and Marcy Walker, what did you enjoy hearing about the most? Now the tickets have dropped to watch the replay On Demand, would you want to check it out? Let us know via the comment section below.
Breaking News
‘Days of Our Lives’ Officially Confirms Ryan Quan Returning as Co-Head Writer Beginning in July

There is definitely a shake-up going down at the writing team at Peacock’s Days of Our Lives. Now, the long-running soap opera has confirmed, what has been previously reported, that current General Hospital breakdown writer, Ryan Quan is heading back to his old stomping grounds in Salem. This time as the series co-head writer.
The appointment of Quan comes with the official news that current co-head writer, Paula Cwikly, who was previously rumored to be departing the series, is not. She is staying with the soap opera and transitioning to a consultant role with the show. Now, Quan will join current co-head writer, Jeanne Marie Ford to steer the ship for the characters on the canvas.
On Wednesday, TV Insider, reported the official confirmation and that Quan will return to DAYS next month in July. In a statement to the outlet, executive producer, Ken Corday expressed, ‘We are lucky to have Ryan back in the fold. There are very few people who have such a deep knowledge and understanding of our show’s history. Stay tuned!”

Photo: JPI
THE FUTURE OF DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Since Days of our Lives unusual production schedule tapes ten-months ahead of air, the new creative team’s vision led by Quan and Jeanne Marie Ford are not expected to stream on Peacock until mid-2027.
Days of Our Lives is currently renewed through its 63rd season. The former NBC soap opera which transitioned to Peacock in September of 2022, celebrate its 60th anniversary in November of 2025.
The writing regime change comes after NBCUniversal Media Chairman Matt Strauss revealed that Peacock is expected to turn a profit for the first time in the current quarter, punctuating their investment with the enduring soap opera on its platform.
As for Quan, his knowledge of Salem is tremendous. Ryan joined Days of Our Lives as a writer’s assistant in 2007 after some time over at Passions. He then spent two decades and held every position on the writing team where he previously served as co-head writer from 2016-17 alongside Dena Higley.
Later, when Ron Carlivati took over as head writer for 7 years in 2017, Quan became his right-hand man and main story consultant for his deep knowledge of the history and the legacy of the show. After Carlivati exited the show in 2024, General Hospital hired Quan in 2025.
So, what do you think about DAYS making it official with Ryan Quan as the new co-head writer of the series alongside Jeanne Marie Ford. What do you think about the fact we won’t see the changes on-screen till 2027? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
Breaking News
ABC Announces ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Texas Spin-Off Gets Straight-to-Series Order

In a surprise move, coming a week after ABC unveiled its 2026-2027 fall television schedule, Grey’s Anatomy is getting a new spinoff co-created by the original series’ creator/executive producer Shonda Rhimes.
The new untitled medical drama will be written and executive produced by Rhimes and Grey’s Anatomy showrunner/executive producer Meg Marinis under the Shondaland and 20th Television umbrella. In addition, long-running ‘Grey’s’ star Ellen Pompeo will also serve as an EP of the spinoff.
The upcoming new series will debut midseason in 2027. This will be the first of Grey’s franchise not set in urban city or West Coast locale. According to Deadline, the new “edgy drama is about a team at a rural West Texas medical center — the last chance for care before miles of nowhere.”

Photo: ABC
In a statement, Marinis shared, “I am incredibly excited to expand the Grey’s Anatomy universe. This opportunity will bring new characters and stories to life that will embody the same heart, emotion and connection audiences have loved from Grey’s for more than two decades — all set in my home state of Texas. I am so grateful to Shonda Rhimes for creating this dynamic world and feel so fortunate that I get to be a part of it.”
A NEW GROUP OF DOCTORS IN RURAL TEXAS
The Texas spinoff will feature a a new group of doctors, but there will be some connection to the OG Grey’s Anatomy and possibly to Debbie Allen’s character of Catherine Fox. The amount of episodes in the series order has not yet been determined. Previous Grey’s Anatomy spinoffs were the defunct Station 19 and Private Practice.
Previously, Grey’s Anatomy was renewed for its upcoming 23rd season while the amount of episodes is unclear. The last two seasons the series produced 18 episodes.
It should also be noted, Grey’s Anatomy and the Texas spinoff would likely share a time period, which requires limited-run orders for both with Grey’s premiering in the fall, followed by the spinoff on the midseason programming block.
So, what do you think about a Texas spinoff of Grey’s Anatomy coming in 2027? Who would you like to see from daytime or primetime as some of the featured roles as new doctors? Put on your casting directors hat and let us know via the comment section below.
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