Shelly Altman OUT as General Hospital Head Writer

After previous reports speculated that a change in the head-writing department at General Hospital was imminent, it’s now confirmed. One of the ABC soap’s two head writers is on their way out!

After a lengthy career in soaps that dates back over 20 years and has earned her two Daytime Emmys and two Writers Guild Of America Awards, GH’s top scribe, Shelly Altman, is retiring.

According to TV Insider, this coming Friday, August 2 will be Altman’s last day crafting the tales for the citizens of Port Charles.

Joining Chris Van Etten as co-head writer is Dan O’Connor, a current writer for the show. The two have worked together on GH for years now and also both wrote for One Life To Live until that show was canceled in 2011 (airing last in early 2012).

“Shelly, thank you for years of complex, emotional, intriguing story that ranged from suspense to heartbreak to laugh out loud funny, and everything in-between,” said Frank Valentini, executive producer.

As for the show’s new team, the GH showrunner says, “[Chris and Dan] understand the canvas and the characters. They also bring creativity, passion, and commitment to the show’s history and its future.”

Once Altman leaves, all four broadcast soaps will be written by men: Bradley Bell head writes The Bold And The Beautiful; Josh Griffith is the top scribe at The Young And The Restless; and Ron Carlivati helms the course for the characters on Days Of Our Lives.

Soap Hub wishes Altman all the best in the future! General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC. Check local listings for air times.