"General Hospital" fan favorite Jason Thompson has exciting news for his followers. The 39-year-old actor is going to be a first-time dad, Celebrity Dirty Laundry reports.
In a video file posted on Periscope by Thompson's co-actor Chad Duell, Thompson excitedly announced his wife Paloma Jonas' pregnancy. Other "GH" stars were present in the clip, who were visibly as thrilled. Based on Jonas' bump, fans speculated that the mom-to-be is around 14 weeks along and is rumored to be giving birth sometime in May.
Thompson has had a lot of practice playing a father in his reel life as Dr. Patrick Drake. In the ABC daytime drama, his character is an established family man. However, Thompson may have to give up his scrubs soon, as it was announced that he would be leaving the show before or after this Christmas.
Thompson has played the role of Dr. Patrick Drake since 2005. The actor confirmed the news of his departure on his Instagram account, posting a thank-you note for his fans and colleagues.
A photo posted by Jason Thompson (@myjasonthompson) on Oct 30, 2015 at 4:18pm PDT
Soap Opera Spy reported that Thompson's last scene will be aired in December. As previously reported, there have been speculations that the actor may be jumping over to CBS' "The Young and The Restless," where he will be recast as the character Billy Abbott.
However, fans noticed that Thompson was still hanging out with his "GH" co-stars in his video announcement. This, despite the announcement that he has already finished filming his final scenes. This small detail sparked major speculations that the actor is in fact extending his contract.
ABC has not given an official update on Thompson's future as Dr. Patrick Drake, but rumor has it that there will be a recast of the role. The short list includes Michael Muhney, Jeff Branson and Chris McKenna.
"General Hospital" airs weekdays, 2 p.m. on ABC.
