Where is Kelly Monaco on General Hospital? What Happened to Kelly Monaco? Who is Kelly Monaco?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jan 03, 2024
General Hospital
General Hospital, often abbreviated as GH, is an enduring American daytime television soap opera with a rich history. It holds a significant place in television history, being recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest-running American soap opera in production.
Second only to Guiding Light in American history, it is also the world's third longest-running scripted drama series still in production, following British serials The Archers and Coronation Street. General Hospital first graced the screens on April 1, 1963, on the ABC network, marking its place as the longest-running serial produced in Hollywood and the longest-running entertainment program in ABC television history. The show has been awarded the most Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series, boasting an impressive 14 wins.
Created by husband-and-wife soap writers Frank and Doris Hursley, General Hospital initially unfolded within an unnamed fictional city set in a hospital. However, in the 1970s, the city was officially named Port Charles, New York. The show's original cast included John Beradino and Emily McLaughlin, who remained with the series until their respective passings in 1996 and 1991. Notably, Rachel Ames joined the cast in 1964 and held the record as the longest-serving actress on an ABC soap opera, appearing continuously from 1964 to 2007.
On September 17, 2010, General Hospital became the oldest American soap opera following the conclusion of CBS's As the World Turns. It weathered network changes, with ABC's cancellation of All My Children and One Life to Live, ultimately making General Hospital the last remaining soap opera on the network after January 13, 2012. The show celebrated its 50th anniversary on April 1, 2013, and achieved the remarkable milestone of airing its 15,000th episode on June 22, 2022, solidifying its legacy in the realm of daytime television.
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Where is Kelly Monaco on General Hospital?
As of the recent recast with Lindsay Hartley stepping back into the role of Sam McCall on General Hospital, there is no official information about Kelly Monaco's current status on the show. The announcement made during the episode mentioned Hartley's return as a temporary recast, similar to her previous stints in 2020 and February of the previous year. While Hartley's past portrayals of Sam have been brief, there is currently no clarity on the duration of her current run or the reason behind Monaco's temporary absence.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Monaco's absence, fans are speculating on social media and expressing hopes that Lindsay Hartley's recurring appearances could potentially lead to a more permanent role in Port Charles, even if not as Sam. With Monaco's status yet to be revealed, viewers will have to wait for updates from the show to understand the circumstances surrounding her absence and the potential duration of Hartley's latest temporary portrayal.
Kelly Monaco Role in General Hospital
Kelly Monaco is best known for her portrayal of Sam McCall, a fictional character in the long-running American soap opera, General Hospital. Monaco took on the role when Sam made her debut on October 1, 2003, and her performance has been widely acclaimed. Sam McCall is depicted as the daughter of mob boss Julian Jerome and attorney Alexis Davis, born during their teenage years and placed for adoption. Initially introduced as a con artist seeking to alter her family's fortunes by destroying the infamous "Dead Man's Hand," Sam was initially characterized as a "sexy bad girl with a nose for intrigue."
Over the years, Kelly Monaco's portrayal of Sam McCall has evolved as the character matured from a provocative and adventurous figure into a self-assured and confident woman. Despite this transformation, Sam has retained elements of her daring and adventurous personality. Monaco's performance has not only contributed to the character's depth and development but has also earned her critical acclaim. In recognition of her outstanding work, Monaco received a Daytime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006, further solidifying her impact on the General Hospital narrative.
Who is Kelly Monaco?
Kelly Monaco is a versatile American actress, model, and reality television personality. She is most renowned for her portrayal of Sam McCall on the ABC soap opera General Hospital and for emerging as the winner of the first season of the reality TV competition series Dancing with the Stars. In addition to her acting career, Monaco gained recognition as Playboy's "Playmate of the Month" in April 1997. Her soap opera journey also includes the role of Livvie Locke on Port Charles from 2000 to 2003.
Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Albert "Al" and Carmina Monaco, Kelly is the middle child among her four sisters: Christine, Marissa, Carmina, and Amber. The family later moved to the Poconos, where Monaco attended Pocono Mountain High School and initiated her acting pursuits. Post-high school, she worked as a lifeguard at a local resort and attended Northampton Community College for two years.
During her junior year in high school, Monaco began a long-term relationship with Mike Gonzalez, lasting for 18 years until their breakup in 2009. The complexities of this relationship were explored on the reality TV series Dirty Soap in 2011, where Monaco's General Hospital co-star Kirsten Storms provided support. Monaco's multifaceted career, coupled with her personal experiences, has contributed to her standing as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Specifications
Details
Name
Kelly Marie Monaco
Born
May 23, 1976
Born Place
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Age
47
Occupation(s)
Actress, model
Years active
1997–present
Partner
Mike Gonzalez (1991–2009)
General Hospital Plot
The plotline of General Hospital unfolds within the fictional town of Port Charles, New York, a setting that has been a central backdrop since the series' inception in 1963. Port Charles exists in the same fictional universe as other soap opera settings like Llanview (One Life to Live), Pine Valley (All My Children), New York City (Ryan's Hope), and Corinth (Loving), creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories.
At the heart of Port Charles is General Hospital, a major medical facility founded by the esteemed Dr. Steve Hardy. It is one of the city's largest employers and boasts a prominent place on the East Coast's medical landscape.
Over the years, the hospital has played a pivotal role in the lives of the show's characters, serving as the backdrop for numerous medical dramas, romances, and conflicts. Notable contributions to the hospital include wings dedicated to AIDS research, pediatric centers, and a fire that led to a reconstruction funded by the Quartermaine family.
The Metro Court, a prominent hotel in Port Charles, is another key location in the series. Initially built by Jasper Jacks, the hotel stands on the site of the Port Charles Hotel, which was destroyed in a fire in 2004. Carly Corinthos becomes a business partner with Jax, and later with Kate Howard, leading to the hotel's expansion and prominence in the city's social scene.
Kelly's Diner, founded by Joe "Paddy" Kelly, is a vintage restaurant situated in the heart of Port Charles. It is a cherished establishment known for its nostalgic charm and boarding rooms upstairs, which have housed various residents and guests over the years. The diner's ownership passes through several hands, with Bobbie Spencer and Luke Spencer eventually taking over its operation.
The Haunted Star, a yacht turned casino and nightclub, has been owned by several characters, including Luke Spencer and his daughter Lulu Spencer. The vessel has undergone various transformations throughout the series, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of Port Charles.
The Floating Rib, a bar located near General Hospital, has been a popular nightlife destination for Port Charles residents. It has changed ownership over the years, with characters like Coleman Ratcliffe and Mac Scorpio taking the helm. A tragic event in 2020 resulted in a bomb destroying the associated fine dining restaurant of the same name.
General Hospital weaves together the lives, relationships, and dramas of its diverse cast of characters against the backdrop of these iconic Port Charles locations. The show's enduring appeal lies in its ability to combine medical, romantic, and interpersonal storylines, creating a captivating narrative that has kept viewers engaged for decades.
General Hospital Overview
Title
General Hospital
Genre
Soap Opera
Created by
Frank & Doris Hursley
Written by
Dan O'Connor, Chris Van Etten
Directed by
Larry Carpenter, Tina Keller, William Ludel, Gary Tomlin,
Frank Valentini, Denise Van Cleave, Phideaux Xavier
Theme music composer
Jack Urbont, Paul Glass, Steve Hopkins
Country of origin
United States
Original language
English
No. of episodes
15,000
Executive producers
Frank Valentini (2012–present) and others
Production locations
The Prospect Studios, Los Angeles, California
Camera setup
Multi-camera
Running time
30 minutes (1963–1976), 45 minutes (1976–1978), 60 minutes (1978–present)
Production companies
Selmur Productions (1963–1968), ABC Signature (1985–present)
Network
ABC
Release
April 1, 1963 – present
Where to Watch General Hospital?
If you're eager to catch up on General Hospital or don't want to miss any new episodes, there are several convenient options available: ABC offers a free live-streaming spotlight service where you can watch General Hospital at all hours on their official website, abc.com. New episodes of the soap opera are typically available on Hulu after they air. This is a great option if you miss an episode during its broadcast.
You can find the entire series of General Hospital on Amazon Prime Video, allowing you to binge-watch past episodes at your convenience. General Hospital may also be available on other streaming platforms, so it's worth checking your preferred streaming service to see if it's offered.
For dedicated fans looking for a more traditional viewing experience, you can consider purchasing the standard box set DVDs of General Hospital, which provide a physical collection of episodes for your enjoyment. With these options, you can easily stay up-to-date with the drama and intrigue of Port Charles and enjoy General Hospital according to your schedule and preferences.
What Happened to Kelly Monaco?
Kelly Monaco, who portrays Sam McCall, has been temporarily replaced by Lindsay Hartley for the third time in recent years. The recast was a surprise for viewers at the beginning of the new year. While Hartley's return has been announced as temporary, there is no information on the duration of this current run or the reason for Monaco's absence. Hartley's previous stints as a recast lasted for about a week's worth of episodes each. Speculation surrounds Monaco's status, leaving fans curious about the circumstances and hoping for updates on her return or the possibility of Lindsay Hartley assuming a more permanent role on the show.
Where is Kelly Monaco on General Hospital - FAQs
As of the latest episodes, Kelly Monaco, who portrays Sam McCall, has been temporarily replaced by Lindsay Hartley. The reason for this recast and the duration of Monaco's absence are currently undisclosed.
The details surrounding Kelly Monaco's absence from General Hospital remain unknown. Lindsay Hartley has stepped in temporarily, and there has been no official statement regarding the circumstances leading to Monaco's temporary departure.
Kelly Monaco is an American actress, model, and reality television personality. She is best known for her role as Sam McCall on the ABC soap opera General Hospital and as the winner of the first season of Dancing with the Stars. Monaco also served as Playboy's "Playmate of the Month" in April 1997.
As of now, Lindsay Hartley's return to General Hospital is announced as a temporary recast. There is no confirmation of a permanent replacement, and the duration of Hartley's current run remains uncertain.
There are no official updates on Kelly Monaco's return to General Hospital. Fans are eagerly awaiting news on the duration of Lindsay Hartley's temporary stint and the circumstances that led to Monaco's absence from the show. As of now, it's advised to stay tuned for any official announcements from the General Hospital team.