dailyloe.com – Nathan Dean will return to General Hospital as Ethan Lovett on April 17, 2026. His last appearance in Port Charles was six years ago. The actor’s return was prompted by the passing of Anthony Geary. Geary played his on-screen father, Luke Spencer.
Dean explains the opportunity began to take shape late last year. He wanted to return to pay his respects to Geary. Executive producer Frank Valentini and casting director Mark Teschner reached out. They contacted him right before Christmas break to ask if he would come back.
Dean says Anthony Geary had a profound impact on him. Geary was both a personal friend and a professional mentor. He describes Geary as being like a brother to him. Dean joked they were very similar people off set as well.
Another loss since Dean’s exit is actor Tristan Rogers. Rogers played Robert Scorpio, a key figure in Ethan’s past. Dean notes he did not get to work with Rogers until more recently. He says Rogers was awesome and wishes he had more chance to work with him.
Dean calls both Geary and Rogers legends. He says we still talk about them today. He imagines we will talk about them for many years to come. The actor has worked on other shows since leaving the soap.
His prime-time work includes Roswell, New Mexico and The Originals. Dean admits to having first-day jitters upon returning to General Hospital. He points out it has been a long time since he worked in that environment. He says it is a very different environment than other shows.
Dean was nervous and wondered if he still had it. His first week back involved some growing pains. He paced around nervously but says it has been great. He has gotten to work with Maurice Benard and Jane Elliot.
He also praises executive producer Frank Valentini and casting director Mark Teschner. Dean got to see some familiar faces and meet new ones. He says everyone on set has been very nice. The actor is also working with new scene partners.
This includes Alexa Havins, who plays his on-screen sister Lulu. Dean’s return brings an edgier version of Ethan Lovett to Port Charles. The character’s comeback is tied to personal and professional respect. The episode airs on April 17, 2026.[]
Source: TV Insider
