General Hospital News: Writing for Surprise Recasts

Soap head writers need to deal with anything thrown their way and “General Hospital” offered its scribes a double whammy last month. Both Tyler Christopher and Kirsten Storms took temporary leave and the show cast new actors in the roles.

Nick Stable took over the role of Nikolas Cassadine from Christopher last week right after Ava discovered The Dark Prince very much alive. It was jarring to fans, but head writers Shelly Altman and Jean Passanante went with the flow.

Soon, fans will see Molly Burnett as Maxie Jones while Kirsten Storms spends some time offset. Maxie is also in the middle of a hot story as Nathan’s ex is about to arrive on the sene.

Altman said both Christopher and Storms “inform” their roles, but their stories had to continue in their absence.

“We needed to keep things going with both stories, and with both characters,”  Passanante said in an interview with Michael Fairman Soaps.

“Soap audiences accept this [temporary recasts] and understand this, and for that we are grateful,” Altman said.

The writers added that they had no say in the recast choices, but definitely approved.

While an actor switcheroo can be jarring, both writers expressed confidence that the talented actors are up for the job.

Storms is set to return to the role of Maxie  in late August, but Christopher’s return air has not been announced.

 
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