After an incredible 20-year run, a beloved star of General Hospital is saying goodbye to the iconic ABC serial drama. Fans of the long-running show will soon see the departure of Kirsten Storms, who has already filmed her final scenes for the foreseeable future. The actress, known for her portrayal of Maxie Jones, is taking an extended break to make a significant personal life change.
Kirsten Storms, 41, first graced the screens of General Hospital in 2005, quickly becoming a fan favorite as Maxie Jones. Her popular character also appeared in the spin-off, General Hospital: Night Shift, further cementing her place in the soap opera landscape. Now, after two decades, Storms is embarking on a new chapter, one that involves a major cross-country move.
In a recent Instagram video that garnered considerable attention from General Hospital fans, Storms revealed her plans to relocate from Los Angeles, California, to Nashville, Tennessee. This significant life decision includes her 11-year-old daughter, Harper, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Brandon Barash. Storms shared that the idea of moving has been on her mind since March, a discussion she initiated with General Hospital Executive Producer Frank Valentini.
“I had a conversation with him about my reasons for wanting to move and my desire to not leave the show,” Storms explained in her video. She expressed immense gratitude for the show’s understanding and flexibility, acknowledging that in such a demanding industry, producers could easily release an actor from their contract for a cross-state move. “General Hospital did not do that, which was kind of amazing because I also asked for some time off,” she noted, highlighting the show’s support for her personal decision.
A Temporary Goodbye, With Promises of a Shocking Return
While Storms has indeed filmed what she refers to as her “final taping day for the year,” this departure appears to be temporary. The actress hinted at a possible return to Port Charles later in the year, potentially in “December, maybe November.” This news offers a glimmer of hope for viewers who will undoubtedly miss seeing Maxie Jones on their screens.
Storms also teased an “incredible” storyline that will unfold in her absence, assuring fans that they are “gonna freak out actually.” This promise of captivating drama is sure to keep audiences engaged and eager for her eventual comeback. In her Instagram caption, Storms reiterated her excitement: “I’m very excited to be making Tennessee my home! I can’t wait to return to General Hospital, once Harper and I are settled in our new town.” She also plans to document her new journey on social media, inviting fans to follow along. “It’s always been a dream of mine to move to a place like this, it’s hard to believe it’s really happening,” she concluded, expressing her genuine enthusiasm for this personal milestone.
Kirsten Storms’s decision to prioritize her personal life and move to Nashville marks a new chapter for the actress and her daughter. While her temporary departure from General Hospital will undoubtedly be felt by long-time viewers, the promise of a dramatic storyline and a potential return offers exciting prospects for the future of Maxie Jones. Will you be following Kirsten Storms’s new journey in Tennessee?