Kelly Monaco is a name that resonates with fans of daytime TV and beyond. For over two decades, she brought the character Sam McCall to life on ABC’s *General Hospital*, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the world of soap operas. But her journey didn’t start there—and it certainly doesn’t end there either. With a career spanning acting, modeling, and even reality TV, Kelly has become a multi-faceted entertainer who’s left her mark on more than just one screen. So, if you’ve ever wondered about her past, her departure from *General Hospital*, or what she’s up to now, you’ve come to the right place.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of *General Hospital*, a lover of behind-the-scenes Hollywood drama, or just curious about where your favorite TV stars end up, Kelly Monaco’s story is one worth diving into. From her early days on *Baywatch* to her emotional exit from the soap that made her a household name, there’s plenty to unpack. And now that she’s stepping into a new chapter of her life and career, it’s the perfect time to catch up on everything you need to know about her journey so far.

So, let’s take a closer look at who Kelly Monaco really is—her rise to fame, her most iconic roles, and what she’s doing now that she’s left Port Charles behind.

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Table of Contents

• Kelly Monaco: A Quick Biography
• Early Career and Breakthrough
• Kelly Monaco and General Hospital: A Legacy
• Why Did Kelly Monaco Leave General Hospital?
• What Is Kelly Monaco Doing Now?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Kelly Monaco: A Quick Biography

Kelly Marie Monaco was born on May 23, 1976, in Stockton, California. She’s best known for her long-running role as Sam McCall on *General Hospital*, a character she portrayed for over 21 years. Before her soap opera success, she made her mark as a model and landed roles in both television and film.

Early Career and Breakthrough

Kelly Monaco first stepped into the spotlight in 1997 with a recurring role on *Baywatch*, a show that was already a cultural phenomenon. Her time on the series gave her exposure to a wide audience and helped open doors for future opportunities. She wasn’t just a model or a pretty face—she had the acting chops to back it up.

By the late '90s, she was appearing in films like *Idle Hands* (1999) and *Mumford* (1999), where she worked alongside A-list actors such as Anjelica Huston and Loren Dean. These early roles showcased her versatility and hinted at a promising film career ahead. But it was her move to daytime TV that would truly define her professional path.

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So, how did she end up on *General Hospital*? Well, that’s where her journey really took off—and where she became a household name.

Kelly Monaco and General Hospital: A Legacy

In 2003, Kelly Monaco joined the cast of *General Hospital* as Sam McCall, a character that would become one of the most beloved and complex figures in the show’s long history. Sam was tough, resilient, and had a mysterious past—perfect for an actress who brought both strength and vulnerability to the role.

Over the next two decades, Kelly became a fixture in the world of soap operas. She appeared in hundreds of episodes and became a fan favorite. Her chemistry with co-stars like Steve Burton (Jason Morgan) and Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos) helped bring depth to the show’s dramatic storylines. She also earned recognition for her acting, including a Daytime Emmy Award in 2001 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her role in *Port Charles*.

But like all long-running shows, *General Hospital* is ever-changing. Cast members come and go, and sometimes, actors decide it’s time to move on. That’s exactly what happened with Kelly Monaco.

Why Did Kelly Monaco Leave General Hospital?

Kelly Monaco’s exit from *General Hospital* was a big deal. She’d been with the show for over 21 years, so leaving wasn’t just a professional move—it was a deeply personal one. In interviews, she’s opened up about her feelings surrounding the decision.

She said that while she loved playing Sam McCall, she felt it was time to explore new opportunities outside the world of daytime TV. “I felt like I had given everything I could to the character and to the show,” she explained in one interview. “It was time to turn the page and see what else life had in store for me.”

Still, that didn’t make the goodbye easy. Fans were devastated when she left, and many hoped she’d return one day for a special appearance or limited run. So, what’s next for Kelly Monaco now that she’s no longer in Port Charles?

What Is Kelly Monaco Doing Now?

After leaving *General Hospital*, Kelly Monaco hasn’t disappeared from the entertainment world. She’s been spotted on social media, where she’s been sharing glimpses of her personal life and upcoming projects.

She’s also hinted at wanting to return to film and theater, and she’s expressed interest in doing more stage work. “There’s something magical about live performance,” she said recently. “I’d love to get back into that space.”

In addition to acting, she’s been exploring new creative avenues, including writing and producing. She’s also been vocal about the importance of self-care and mental health, especially after spending so many years in the fast-paced world of television.

So, while she may not be on your TV screen every day, Kelly Monaco is still very much active—and she’s not done surprising her fans just yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Kelly Monaco leave General Hospital?

Kelly Monaco left *General Hospital* after over 20 years in order to pursue new opportunities outside of daytime television. She felt it was time to move on from the character of Sam McCall and explore other aspects of her career and personal life.

Will Kelly Monaco return to General Hospital?

While there’s no official word on a return, Kelly has left the door open for future appearances. She’s said in interviews that she’d be open to coming back for special episodes or limited runs, depending on her schedule and the storyline.

What is Kelly Monaco doing now?

Since leaving *General Hospital*, Kelly Monaco has been focusing on personal projects, exploring opportunities in film and theater, and staying connected with fans through social media. She’s also expressed interest in writing and producing her own content.

For more updates on Kelly Monaco and other *General Hospital* news, you can Learn more about the latest happenings in the world of daytime TV.