Kelly Sullivan (Connie Falconeri) has confirmed that she is exiting General Hospital. But in a surprising development, the actress revealed that it was not her decision to exit the ABC soap.
"Thank you all so much for your support and loyalty. You are my life long family and I cannot express how much I appreciate each of you. You have really made my experience here on GH a wonderful adventure," Sullivan shared on Twitter and her official Facebook page. "I wanted to fill you all in on the details and try to answer some of your questions. I am not returning to GH after August. This is not a contract issue, I have been written off the show. [..] I have no ill feelings towards any of the staff or crew connected to the show or the network. I will miss everyone dearly."
Citing its sources, Soap Opera Digest first reported the news of Sullivan's exit. The magazine did not elaborate on whether Sullivan had opted out or if the actress had been let go from the show.
General Hospital's decision to write off Sullivan's alter ego may come as a surprise because the actress has been front and center in story for some time, and it appeared that Connie would remain an integral part of the storytelling.
The news of Sullivan's exit seemed to have caught her co-stars by surprise. Many took to Twitter to wish her well.
"[W]hat the hell am i gonna do without you?" asked Lisa LoCicero (Olivia Falconeri).
"You are an amazing actress," shared Steve Burton (ex-Jason Morgan). "Not many could have done what you did [with] Connie/Kate. [Great] things are ahead for u!"
Sullivan assumed the role of Kate Howard, and later her alter Connie Falconeri, in September 2011. The role marked Sullivan's first contract role in daytime. The actress has previously appeared as a day player on As the World Turns and One Life to Live.
Megan Ward created the role of Kate in May 2007 and remained on contract with General Hospital through 2009.
Fans and even former costars have taken to social media to encourage other soaps to hire Sullivan. For her part, Sullivan let it be known that she is available for hire.
"I do not have any information on potential Daytime opportunities," Sullivan stated.
A final airdate has not been announced. ABC does not comment on contract status.
