However, Hearst himself has stated that these claims are false.
Rick Debunked The Rumors On Instagram
He recently went on Instagram to personally address and dispel the rumors after seeing a Google search result that hinted at his departure from the soap.
Hearst eliminated the false news by overlaying bold red text on the image that stated, “I hate the internet.” He was equally blunt in his remarks, declaring, “Complete shyte.”
The post quickly garnered an outpouring of affection and relief from fans and daytime peers, many of whom have faced similar internet hoaxes.
Previously, he’d also debunked the rumors at a fan event, and even though that was quoted on social media, apparently it wasn’t enough.
Other Soap Stars Chimed In On The Matter
Tamara Braun (formerly Carly Spencer and Reese Williams on GH), who is now portraying Sienna Bacall on The Young and the Restless, shared her own story.
She stated, “The internet claimed I passed away last month. You can’t believe everything you read.” Lesli Kay, recognized by soap fans for her portrayal of Felicia Forrester on The Bold and the Beautiful, also chimed in, saying, “I agree, this happened to me not long ago-people can post whatever they want.”
Meanwhile, fans were thrilled to learn that the sharp Port Charles attorney is not leaving; a viewer named Tristan remarked, “Thanks for clarifying!! I was really worried.”
Rick’s Fans Were Relieved
Another loyal viewer expressed, “I’m so pleased you came here to share this- I can’t imagine how you handle this kind of stuff; your fans are thrilled you’re back on GH! We want you to stay!!” Hearst has been a significant figure in the soap industry for many years.
He has been featured in several legendary daytime series, but most fans recognize him primarily as Ric Lansing on General Hospital, a character he first introduced on November 8, 2002.
These other soaps include Days of Our Lives as Scotty Banning II, Guiding Light as Alan-Michael Spaulding, The Young and the Restless as Matt Clark, and The Bold and the Beautiful as Whip Jones III.
Hearst Has Gone And Come From GH Several Times Over The Years
Although Hearst has left and rejoined the series several times over the years, it appears that fans need not be concerned about another exit at this moment.
Throughout his daytime career, Hearst has garnered significant acclaim. He has received a total of seven Daytime Emmy nominations over the years.
In 1991, he won the award for Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series for his role in Guiding Light, and later, he secured the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series award twice for General Hospital in 2004 and 2007.
Clearly, Ric Lansing remains an integral part of the GH universe for the time being, and fans seem quite pleased about it.
Be sure to catch up on everything happening with GH right now. Come back here often for General Hospital spoilers, news, and updates.