How ‘General Hospital’ said goodbye to Kelly Monaco in final episode after shock exit from

'General Hospital' Bids Farewell to Kelly Monaco in Emotional Final Episode

How the Longtime Soap Star's Exit Unfolded

### Soap Opera Icon's Departure After 26 years on the beloved daytime drama "General Hospital," Emmy Award-winning actress Kelly Monaco made her final appearance as the iconic Sam McCall in the show's February 23 episode. Monaco's exit, which came as a shock to fans, was handled with poignancy and emotion. ### Heartfelt Send-Off The episode opened with a montage of Sam's most memorable moments from her decades in Port Charles. As she reminisced with her loved ones, including husband Jason Morgan (Steve Burton) and best friend Elizabeth Webber (Rebecca Herbst), Sam's journey came to a bittersweet conclusion. ### Legacy of a Soap Legend Monaco's portrayal of Sam has left an indelible mark on the soap opera landscape. Her character's resilience, strength, and unwavering loyalty have resonated with generations of viewers, making her one of the most beloved figures in television history. ### Emotional Goodbyes In a series of tearful scenes, Sam said goodbye to her closest companions. Jason vowed to cherish their memories forever, while Elizabeth promised to keep their friendship alive. The episode culminated in a touching moment as Sam boarded a flight out of Port Charles, leaving her past behind and embarking on a new chapter. ### A Graceful Departure Monaco's exit from "General Hospital" was handled with the utmost respect for her character and her legacy. The episode allowed fans to say a proper farewell to Sam McCall, while giving Monaco the opportunity to bid adieu to a role that had defined her career. ### Kelly Monaco's Farewell Message In a heartfelt message posted on Instagram, Monaco expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to play Sam McCall. "I will forever cherish the friendships I've made and the memories we've created," she wrote. "Thank you to the cast, crew, and most importantly, the fans who have made this journey so special." ### The Future of 'General Hospital' The departure of Kelly Monaco leaves a void in "General Hospital," but the long-running series continues to forge ahead. New storylines and characters are being introduced, ensuring that the soap opera remains a captivating and enduring force in daytime television. ### Conclusion Kelly Monaco's final episode as Sam McCall on "General Hospital" was a fitting tribute to an iconic character and a beloved actress. The episode allowed fans to celebrate Sam's journey while honoring the legacy of the woman who brought her to life. As the soap opera continues without Sam, Monaco's portrayal will forever remain a cherished memory for viewers around the world.