After two decades on the iconic soap opera, Kelly Monaco bids farewell to her role as Sam McCall, leaving fans in disbelief and mourning the loss of a beloved character.
- Oct 4, 2024
AceShowbiz - For 21 years, Kelly Monaco has captivated audiences as Sam McCall on the long-running soap opera "General Hospital". The 48-year-old actress, known for her compelling portrayal of Sam, will no longer be part of the series, much to the dismay of her devoted fan base. Monaco's unexpected departure sparked reactions from fans and family alike.
In a since-deleted Instagram comment on a Soap Hub post, Monaco addressed her exit, disputing allegations that she refused a pay cut and criticism that her role was boring and "had no primary roles."
" 'No primary role'... do your homework. When Billy Miller was fired, Sam's storyline stopped. Stripping Sam of every characteristic she had. Something I worked for decades to build… Slowly dismantling her, into a character that I did not recognize, let alone the audience. Call it what you will… retaliation at it [sic] finest. I will give a proper statement. The truth will set you free," she declared.
Monaco's departure was confirmed in August and came as a shock, not only to fans but to the actress herself. Reports indicate that she was "blindsided" by the network's decision to kill off her character.
Her final days on set were poignantly noted by her mother, Carmina, who shared a heartfelt message on social media. She expressed gratitude for the unwavering support Monaco received from her fans over the years, emphasizing how much their love and dedication meant during this difficult transition.
Since her debut in Port Charles in 2003, Monaco appeared in over 2,000 episodes of "General Hospital". Throughout her tenure, she became a fan favorite and even earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 2006. Her departure marks not just the end of an era but also the loss of a character that many viewers have grown to cherish deeply.
Fans took to social media to voice their devastation over Monaco's exit. One user remarked, "I have watched GH for over 46 years and no character have I ever gravitated to like Sam. My loyalty and viewing ends with Kelly's last scene." Another shared, "I'm so devastated and don't know if I can continue watching without her on." These sentiments were echoed by many, highlighting Monaco's significant impact on the show and its audience.
Aside from her soap opera fame, Kelly Monaco is also remembered for her stellar performance on "Dancing With the Stars", where she won the first season in 2005 and later returned for seasons 15 and 25. Her multifaceted talent and enduring presence in the entertainment industry have left an indelible mark, and her departure from "General Hospital" will undoubtedly be felt by fans and colleagues alike.