Kelly Monaco, who portrayed Sam McCall on the long-running TV show for 21 years, makes use of her social media account to open up about her departure from the long-running soap opera.
- October 7, 2024
AceShowbiz - For more than 21 years, Kelly Monaco has been a familiar face on ABC's long-running soap opera, "General Hospital". Playing the beloved character Sam McCall, Monaco graced over 2,000 episodes and secured a Daytime Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 2006. However, the news of her unforeseen exit from the series has left fans and fellow actors visibly shaken.
The announcement came in August when it was confirmed that Monaco, 48, would not be reprising her role. Monaco took to Instagram to express her thoughts, lamenting the fact that her character Sam had been stripped of the traits she had spent decades developing. Monaco wrote, " 'No primary role'... do your homework. When Billy Miller was fired, Sam's storyline stopped. Stripping Sam of every characteristic she had... Slowly dismantling her, into a character that I did not recognize, let alone the audience. Call it what you will... retaliation at it finest. I will give a proper statement. The truth will set you free."
The actress's departure sparked a notable reaction from her fans, who voiced their discontent and launched several social media campaigns under hashtags like #SaveKelly and #IStandWithKelly. One passionate fan commented, "No no no no NO!! Reverse course immediately!... Sam has had one of the most beautiful evolutions on #GH and there is no storyline that should keep her away from her home!"
Monaco''s mother, Carmina Monaco, also chimed in with a heartfelt message to her daughter's supporters on Instagram. "This moment is a difficult one, but knowing that she has had such an incredible, devoted fan base has given her strength," Carmina wrote. "You've stood by her through every twist and turn, celebrating her achievements and providing comfort in the hard times. Your love and dedication have meant more than words can express, not only to Kelly but to all of us who care so deeply for her."
Playing Sam McCall since October 2003, Monaco's role significantly impacted the General Hospital community. She previously starred in the show's spinoff, Port Charles, from 2000 to 2003. Beyond the soap opera world, Monaco's claim to fame includes winning the first season of Dancing With the Stars in 2005, showcasing her diverse talents to a national audience.
The dynamics of television and the relationships within communities of dedicated viewers make exodus like Monaco's deeply impactful. Only time will tell how General Hospital will fill the void left by such a cherished character. Yet, Monaco's influence and the love of her fans have undeniably left an indelible mark on the show's history.
