Speculations about possible new characters or re-casting for “General Hospital” surfaced as an African-American actor was screen tested arising questions if he will recast a role or is a new character.
Two characters are rumored for re-casting -- either Shawn Butler or Ned Ashton. Shawn Butler was previously played by Sean Blakemore, who was sent to Pentonville for mob crimes. TJ Ashford (Tequan Richmond) was angry at mother Jordan Ashford (Vinessa Antoine) because of that incident and wanted to see Butler back, who is actually TJ's biological father.
With Butler's sudden leaving, viewers were confused making them think that Sean Blakemore has other projects to work on. It was a strange scene especially that only a few African-American characters are left in "General Hospital," including Jordan, TJ, Felix DuBois (Marc Samuel) and Valerie Spencer (Brytni Sarpi). It is also speculated that the new character might take the role as Valerie's unseen father.
Wally Kurth's role as Ned Ashton is also rumored for re-casting since he is very busy at "Days of Our Lives" for his Justin Kiriakis role. Reports reveal that the first Ned might be back played by Kurt McKinney or a new face might enter the show, unless Kurt will do both soaps which is doubtful, according to Celebrity Laundry.
There had been rumors that Michael Muhney might join the cast after he was fired from "The Young and the Restless." Reports say that he would be a good recast for Ned.
Meanwhile, TJ (Tequan Richmond) might be leaving the show because of his brand new lead role on Showtime, while roles for a twin boy babies who are three to six months is open as Olivia Falconeri (Lisa LoCicero) and Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot) is working on a plot to bring baby Leo Falconeri back to Port Charles. Fans are also looking forward for the return of Ned to rekindle his romance with Olivia Falconeri.
