Recent episodes of "General Hospital" have seen numerous significant changes, particularly in its writing team. On the August 7th episode, fans noticed the return of former head writer Chris Van Etten, who is now working alongside Elizabeth Korte. Van Etten's name appeared in the end credits, signaling this noteworthy return. Additionally, Cathy LePard, the show's seasoned scriptwriter and breakdown writer, was promoted to Associate Head Writer.
This shift in the writing team occurs at a particularly intriguing moment for "General Hospital." Viewers have been captivated by unconventional and gripping storylines, such as Sonny Corinthos (portrayed by Maurice Benard) grappling with his deteriorating mental health. Alongside this, the return of Rick Lansing (Rick Hearst) and Morgan Corinthos (Bryan Craig) to Port Charles has added layers of drama and nostalgia for long-term fans.
The dynamics on screen are not the only aspect undergoing change. Emme Rylan, who played Lulu for seven years, announced her departure on August 6th. Taking to Instagram Stories, Rylan confirmed the news: "Yes, it’s true. GH has decided to recast Lulu. While I am disappointed by their choice, I am grateful to finally have closure.
(Thank God GH brought you amazing people into my life! Love you all!)."
The actress, 43, last appeared on the show in a 2020 episode that showed Lulu entering a coma following an explosion at the Floating Rib.Before Rylan took over, Julie Marie Berman brought Lulu to life from 2005 to 2013.A recent casting call alerted fans that Lulu could be played by a new person in the near future.Rylan, for her part, previously reflected on getting the opportunity to play Lulu.
“Getting to play the daughter of Luke and Laura was the most amazing opportunity,” she told Soap Opera Digest in 2023.“No matter what the internet says, I have made it very clear to General Hospital that I am always available to play Lulu should she ever want to wake up.”She continued: “It is my understanding that when they choose to wake her up, they would be calling me.
That could always change.Who knows? But that is my understanding.When they want to wake her up, they will call me.That’s as much as I know and I have not heard from them.”As for the behind-the-scenes changes, Van Etten served as a head writer in 2017.He was let go in January after collaborating with Shelly Altman and later Dan O’Connor.
“No one knows General Hospital and its history more than Elizabeth and Chris,” executive producer Frank Valentini said in a statement at the time.
“Cathy joined the show in 2023, and her talent and love for the genre has been a tremendous asset to this team. We look forward to this dynamic writing combination continuing the legacy of the show and giving our fans much to look forward to.”
