Key Takeaways:
- Jon Lindstrom is set to return to General Hospital as Dr. Kevin Collins on Tuesday, December 2, after a year-long absence from the show.
- The actor’s return was complicated by his role on the new CBS soap Beyond the Gates, which films in Atlanta, 2,000 miles away from the GH set.
- Kevin’s storyline will see him reconnecting with his wife, Laura (Genie Francis), and sharing scenes with Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard).
- Lindstrom says returning felt like “coming home” and is open to future appearances if scheduling allows.
After a year away from Port Charles, Jon Lindstrom is officially making his long-awaited return to General Hospital. The beloved actor will reprise his role as Dr. Kevin Collins starting Tuesday, December 2, and he’s opening up about the logistical challenges and emotional reunions that came with his return.
The Challenge of Juggling Two Soaps
Lindstrom’s absence was a matter of logistics, as he has been busy with his new role as Joey Armstrong on the CBS soap Beyond the Gates, which films in Atlanta.
“It’s just been difficult to find the time,” Lindstrom explained, noting the 2,000-mile distance between the two sets. For much of the past year, requests for single-episode appearances were impossible to accommodate.
However, the team at General Hospital found a creative solution. “To their credit, they came to me and said, ‘What if we stack a bunch of shows up over a couple of days? Will that be worth your while to make the trip out?’” he shared. “And the short answer is, ‘Yes, of course.’”
An Emotional Homecoming
Stepping back onto the set he first joined in 1993 was an emotional experience for Lindstrom. He described the warm reception from his castmates, many of whom were surprised to see him.
“It’s like coming back to see old friends and a great reunion around it,” he said. “Slipping back into character as Kevin proved effortless. “Like putting on a comfortable old suit,” Lindstrom reported. “It did feel like going back to my hometown.”
A standout moment was reuniting with his on-screen wife, Genie Francis (Laura Collins). “I love working with Genie,” he noted. “To be able to just sit down and hang out in the dressing room with Genie and catch up… I was really excited to do that.” He also reconnected with Maurice Benard, revealing, “we had a little bit of work together. I love Mo.”
What’s Next for Kevin in Port Charles?
Upon his return, Kevin will find himself catching up on recent events, particularly Laura’s decision to turn to Sonny for help following the death of Professor Henry Dalton.
As a psychiatrist, Kevin will have a unique perspective on the situation. “Kevin doesn’t love [her relationship with Sonny], but he also understands it,” Lindstrom said. “Being the shrink that he is, he understands the value of human connection.”
While his work on Beyond the Gates remains a priority, Lindstrom hasn’t closed the door on Port Charles. He confirmed he’s open to more appearances, saying, “It all comes down to scheduling. I’ll do GH anytime.”
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