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GH Shocker: 5 Major Stars Returning And The Legend Hinting At A 2026 Exit—The Latest Comings And Goings

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The landscape of Port Charles is undergoing a seismic shift right now, with major contract signings and shocking return announcements dominating the headlines as of December 22, 2025. Fans of *General Hospital* are reeling from a flurry of casting updates, including the confirmation of several key character returns and a bombshell rumor regarding the possible retirement of one of the show's most enduring legends, Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos). The next few months promise to be among the most dramatic in recent memory, as long-missing faces reappear and the powerful Corinthos family faces an uncertain future.

The "comings and goings" at *General Hospital* are more than just casting changes; they signal massive new storylines and the potential upheaval of core relationships. From the return of a beloved detective to the highly anticipated re-entry of a notorious Cassadine, here is your essential guide to every major casting move hitting Port Charles in late 2025 and early 2026.

The Shockwaves: Major Returns and Rumored Departures for 2026

The biggest news in the world of *General Hospital* centers on three massive returns and one speculative, but deeply concerning, departure that could redefine the show's future. The show's Executive Producer, Frank Valentini, appears to be setting the stage for a dramatic year by bringing back fan-favorite actors and securing long-term contracts for key players.

1. The Sonny Corinthos Retirement Rumor: Is Maurice Benard Leaving GH?

The most discussed topic among the *General Hospital* faithful is the potential departure of Maurice Benard, who has masterfully portrayed mob boss Sonny Corinthos since 1993. Reports and videos have surfaced suggesting that Benard is eyeing retirement in 2026, which would mark the end of an era for the show. While this information is currently speculative and stems from Benard's own comments about his future, the possibility of losing the linchpin of the Corinthos organization has sent shockwaves through the fandom.

  • Actor: Maurice Benard
  • Character: Sonny Corinthos
  • Status: Rumored Exit/Retirement in 2026.
  • Impact: If true, this would necessitate a complete overhaul of the show's central crime and family dynamics, directly affecting characters like Carly Corinthos, Jason Morgan, and Michael Corinthos.
  • Biography Snapshot: Benard, who will turn 63 in March 2026, has been a staple of daytime television for over three decades, earning multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for his complex portrayal of Sonny, a character known for his bipolar disorder and intense family loyalty.

2. Kelly Monaco Signs Two-Year Contract: Sam McCall's Triumphant Return

Fans can breathe a collective sigh of relief and excitement. After a period of uncertainty, Kelly Monaco, who plays the fierce private investigator Sam McCall, has reportedly signed a new two-year contract. This is a massive win for the show, ensuring that Sam will be back on screen and deeply involved in Port Charles's drama starting in January 2026. Her return is expected to immediately impact her relationship with Dante Falconeri and her son, Danny Morgan.

  • Actor: Kelly Monaco
  • Character: Sam McCall
  • Status: Confirmed Return (January 2026) with a Two-Year Contract.
  • Impact: Stabilizes the popular "Sante" pairing and brings a key player back into the investigative side of the show, often working alongside her mother, Alexis Davis, and her partner, Dante.
  • Biography Snapshot: Monaco originated the role of Sam McCall in 2003 and is also known for her previous work on *Port Charles* as Livvie Locke and winning the first season of *Dancing with the Stars*.

3. The Cassadine Prince Returns: Marcus Coloma Locked Down as Nikolas

Another major contract signing confirms the return of a pivotal figure in the Cassadine family saga. Marcus Coloma, who previously played Nikolas Cassadine, is set to return in February 2026 after signing a three-year contract. Nikolas's return will inevitably reignite conflicts with his mother, Laura Collins, and his ex-wife, Ava Jerome. The mystery surrounding his disappearance and presumed death will finally be resolved, leading to high-stakes drama.

  • Actor: Marcus Coloma
  • Character: Nikolas Cassadine
  • Status: Confirmed Return (February 2026) with a Three-Year Contract.
  • Impact: Resumes the infamous Cassadine legacy storyline, directly affecting Spencer Cassadine, Esme Prince, and the power dynamic at Wyndemere.
  • Biography Snapshot: Coloma took over the role of Nikolas in 2019, following in the footsteps of actors like Tyler Christopher. His portrayal brought a darker edge to the character, leaning into the manipulative side of the Cassadine bloodline.

More Port Charles Comings and Goings: Fan-Favorite Returns and Guest Spots

The resurgence of familiar faces isn't limited to the show's main players. Several other key actors are either rumored to be returning or have recently made brief but impactful appearances, reinforcing the show's topical authority and deep character roster.

The Return of Johnny Zacchara?

Rumors are swirling about the potential return of Brandon Barash as Johnny Zacchara in 2026. Johnny, the son of mob boss Anthony Zacchara, has been a fan favorite since his debut, often serving as a counter-balance and rival to Sonny Corinthos. His return would be perfectly timed to coincide with the potential power vacuum left by a retiring Sonny, adding a new layer of mob conflict to Port Charles. The chemistry between Barash and the current cast is undeniable, making this a highly anticipated "coming."

  • Actor: Brandon Barash
  • Character: Johnny Zacchara
  • Status: Strong Rumors of a 2026 Return.
  • Key Entity: The Zacchara Crime Family.

Daniel Goddard's Early 2026 Storyline

Daniel Goddard, known to *General Hospital* fans for his recent storyline, is also slated for a return in early 2026. Goddard's character was instrumental in the takedown of the menacing villain Sidwell, and his re-entry suggests that the repercussions of that storyline are far from over. This is a crucial piece of the puzzle, ensuring that justice-driven plotlines continue to dominate the Port Charles narrative.

  • Actor: Daniel Goddard
  • Character: TBD (Known for the Sidwell Takedown)
  • Status: Confirmed Return in Early 2026.
  • Topical Authority: Continues the recent high-stakes crime saga involving the Port Charles Police Department and The Hook killer storyline's aftermath.

Recent Appearances and Character Status Updates

Beyond the major contract news, several other actors have been making waves with recent appearances or updates on their character's long-term status. Maintaining a dynamic cast is essential for a long-running soap opera like *General Hospital*.

Jon Lindstrom’s Return as Kevin Collins

Jon Lindstrom made a welcome return as Dr. Kevin Collins in December 2025 after a year away from the canvas. Kevin's return, often alongside his twin brother Ryan Chamberlain (also played by Lindstrom), is vital for the show's psychological and emotional storylines. His presence as a psychiatrist is often needed to guide characters like Laura Collins and others through the trauma that is a constant feature of life in Port Charles.

Eva LaRue and Bryce Durfee: Not Gone for Good

Eva LaRue, who plays Natalia, is confirmed to not be leaving the show for good, suggesting her storyline with characters like Sonny and her daughter, Linc, will continue to develop. Similarly, Bryce Durfee, who portrayed Agent Vaughn, will be seen in a new holiday movie in 2026, but his character's status on *General Hospital* remains open, indicating a possible future return for the federal agent.

The Future of Port Charles: A New Era of Drama

The sheer volume of high-profile "comings and goings" indicates that *General Hospital* is preparing for one of its most transformative periods yet. With the confirmed returns of Kelly Monaco and Marcus Coloma, two cornerstones of the show's romantic and dramatic history are back in play. Their re-entry will create immediate friction and rekindle classic rivalries. The Zacchara rumors only amplify the potential for a mob war, especially if Maurice Benard's retirement timeline holds true. The show is clearly investing in its legacy characters while setting up compelling new conflicts for 2026, promising viewers a year of intense drama, surprising reunions, and potential goodbyes.

Keep a close watch on the Port Charles Police Department and the Cassadine family, as their storylines are set to explode in the new year. The upcoming episodes in December 2025 are already teasing reunions and confessions, setting the stage for the dramatic January and February returns.

GH Shocker: 5 Major Stars Returning and The Legend Hinting at a 2026 Exit—The Latest Comings and Goings
general hospital she knows comings and goings
general hospital she knows comings and goings

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