Michael Easton's Departure From 'General Hospital' Came Pretty Abruptly
Michael Easton said he was a fan of Irish goodbyes, so he didn't give fans much warning.
Jun. 27 2024, Published 9:42 a.m. ET
After eight years of playing Dr. Hamilton Finn on General Hospital, Michael Easton announced in June of 2024 that he would be leaving the show. Michael didn't exactly give fans a lot of warning that he was on the way out the door, and many were baffled by the news that he was leaving.
After hearing about his departure, many naturally wondered why Michael had decided to leave. Here's what we know about why Michael decided to leave, and what he's said about his exit.
Why did Michael Easton leave 'General Hospital?'
Michael made the announcement that he would be leaving on his Instagram page, where he said that he had just filmed his final scenes for the show.
“I’ve always been partial to the Irish goodbye,” Michael said in a video. “That’s where you leave the party without actually telling anyone you’re gone. But I thought you all deserve better. So I just want to let you know, I just filmed my final scenes here at General Hospital."
Michael's final episode on the show will air on Thursday, June 27. He didn't offer a ton of explanation about his departure, but did thank his collaborators on the series.
“I’ve loved every minute that I’ve been here,” he said. “I want to thank the entire cast and crew for allowing me to share their stage, this past 10 years. Most importantly, I want to thank all of you for the kindness and love you’ve shown me and my family. I won’t ever forget you.”
“As I walk out of here for the last time, and with apologies to the great Lou Gehrig, I feel like the luckiest man on the face of the Earth,” he said. “Thank you for your kindness. My heart is filled with love and gratitude," he added in the caption.
While it's unclear whether Michael's departure was his decision or something that came out of the writers room, it's clear that he is grateful for his time on the show.
Michael received plenty of well wishes from his co-stars.
Whatever the circumstances surrounding his departure might be, it's clear that Michael is still well-regarded by his now former co-workers.
“You’re a gift to any set you choose to work on, and an excellent artist no matter where or what you create,” Jon Lindstrom, who plays Dr. Ryan Chamberlain and Dr. Kevin Collins, wrote in the comments under his post. “Proud to call you my friend, Michael. Be seeing you soon."
“MEastie, I am so grateful I had the opportunity to work with you … you are just an exceptional person… as an actor, author, poet, friend," Maura West added. "Your ample talent surpassed only by your humor, decency, kindness and charm. Class A1 in every way. xxo your fan and friend forever, MWestie.”
It's unclear where Michael might pop up next, but soap stars are known for jumping between shows. Whatever the future holds, it's safe to say that co-workers and fans alike will miss Michael on General Hospital.
