Kelly Monaco is not just a name that echoes through the halls of daytime television, she's a force of nature who has captivated audiences for over two decades. Whether you’ve been a longtime fan of ABC’s *General Hospital* or you’ve just stumbled upon her work, there’s something undeniably magnetic about her presence. Her journey is one of passion, perseverance, and now, a fresh start that’s got everyone talking. So, if you’re curious about where Kelly Monaco is now, how she got to where she is, and what’s next for her, you’re in the right place.

For those who’ve followed her career, you know her best as Sam McCall, the fierce, unpredictable character who became a cornerstone of *General Hospital*. But there's a whole lot more to Kelly than just her iconic role. From her early modeling days to her breakout TV appearances, and now her bold departure from the show, there’s a story here that goes beyond the screen.

So, if you’re wondering what’s next for Kelly Monaco, or you’re just looking to get to know her a bit better, keep reading. This is the full story, told in a way that connects and keeps you engaged from start to finish.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Kelly Monaco
• Personal Details & Bio Data
• Career Highlights and Breakthrough Moments
• Life After General Hospital: What’s Next for Kelly Monaco?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Kelly Monaco

Biography of Kelly Monaco

Kelly Marie Monaco was born on May 23, 1976, in Stockton, California. She began her career in the entertainment world as a model, gaining early exposure through beauty pageants and print work. Her big break came in 1997 when she landed a recurring role on *Baywatch*, setting the stage for a career that would span decades. She’s best known for her role as Sam McCall on *General Hospital*, a character she brought to life for over 21 years before making the difficult decision to step away from the show in 2024.

Personal Details & Bio Data

Career Highlights and Breakthrough Moments

Kelly Monaco’s career started with a splash—literally—on *Baywatch*, which helped establish her as a recognizable face in the entertainment world. But it was her decision to take on a soap opera role that really changed the trajectory of her life. When she joined *General Hospital* in 2003 as Sam McCall, she probably didn’t realize just how big that role would become.

Sam McCall quickly became a fan favorite, known for her unpredictability, strength, and emotional depth. Over the next two decades, Kelly helped shape the character into one of the most beloved in the soap opera world. She wasn’t afraid to tackle tough storylines and complex relationships, which made her performance stand out. Her chemistry with co-stars like Steve Burton and Maurice Benard added layers of realism to the show.

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Outside of *General Hospital*, Kelly also made a name for herself in films like *Idle Hands* and *Mumford*, and she took on a completely different kind of challenge when she won Season 1 of *Dancing with the Stars*. That win not only showed off her determination and grace but also introduced her to a whole new audience who might not have been familiar with her acting work.

Over the years, she became a staple in the soap opera community and beyond, always keeping her fans engaged with behind-the-scenes looks into her life and career. She’s been open about the ups and downs of the business, making her relatable not just as a performer, but as a person navigating the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood.

Life After General Hospital: What’s Next for Kelly Monaco?

2024 was a big year for Kelly Monaco. After more than two decades on *General Hospital*, she made the surprising announcement that she was stepping away from the role that made her a household name. Fans were shocked and saddened to see her go, but Kelly was ready for a new chapter.

In interviews following her departure, she’s spoken candidly about the emotional weight of saying goodbye to Sam McCall. She shared that while it was tough to leave, she felt it was the right move for her personal and professional growth. She even posted a heartfelt message on social media showing a photo from her final scene, thanking fans for their support over the years.

So, what’s next for Kelly Monaco after *General Hospital*? Well, she’s not slowing down. In fact, she’s hinted at exploring new opportunities in both film and television. She’s mentioned being open to different genres and roles, including projects that allow her to stretch creatively in ways she couldn’t while tied to a daytime soap. There’s also talk about her possibly returning to reality TV, though nothing has been confirmed yet.

She’s also been more present on social media lately, sharing snippets of her personal life, fitness routines, and the occasional tease about what’s coming up next. Her fans are clearly excited to see what she’ll do next, and it seems like she’s more than ready to embrace the unknown.

One thing’s for sure—Kelly Monaco isn’t disappearing. If anything, this new phase of her career feels like the beginning of something exciting. Whether she ends up in a dramatic film role, a new TV series, or even back on the dance floor, she’s got the talent and drive to make it work.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kelly Monaco

Why did Kelly Monaco leave General Hospital?

Kelly Monaco left *General Hospital* in 2024 after 21 years of playing Sam McCall. While she didn’t give a detailed explanation, she did share that it was time for her to move on and explore new opportunities. She expressed gratitude to the fans and the cast for their support during her time on the show.

Is Kelly Monaco returning to General Hospital?

As of now, there’s no official announcement about Kelly Monaco returning to *General Hospital*. She’s left the door open for future appearances, but nothing has been confirmed. Her focus seems to be on new ventures outside of the soap world.

What is Kelly Monaco doing now in 2025?

In 2025, Kelly Monaco is reportedly exploring new acting opportunities, including possible film and TV roles. She’s also been more active on social media, sharing personal updates and staying connected with her fanbase. There's speculation she may return to reality TV, but nothing has been confirmed yet.