Steve Burton is ready to return to General Hospital!
In a video broadcast to the Daily Drama's YouTube account on Monday, the 53-year-old veteran soap actor shared a glimpse of his return to the ABC show's set—and previewed what's in store for his big comeback.
"So, here's the crazy thing: I'm back on set! We're getting ready to shoot right now," he explained.
"So, listen. I got to talk to the head writers, this story is going to be sick," he then teased. "It’s gonna be awesome. So, make sure you keep watching, because the pieces of the puzzle are gonna be fit for when I return."
Burton played Jason Morgan on General Hospital from 1991 to 2012. He returned to the daytime series in 2017, but was let go in 2021 due to his reluctance to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
"I wanted you to hear it from me personally," Burton stated in an Instagram video. "Unfortunately, General Hospital has discharged me due to the vaccine mandate. I applied for medical and religious exemptions, and both were denied. Which, you know, hurts. However, this is also about personal freedom for me. I don't think anyone should lose their job over this."
Burton praised his co-stars and supporters, saying, "I'll always be grateful for my time at General Hospital. I love it there. I grew up there. I grew up with some of you."
Burton noted that his official return date is March 4, adding, "Stay tuned, keep watching!"
Despite his abrupt departure, the actor expressed hope that "maybe one day, if these mandates are lifted," he "can return and finish my career as Jason Morgan."
"That would be an honor," he added. "And if not, I'm going to take this amazing experience, move forward and be forever grateful."
Burton returned to the cast of Days of Our Lives in 2023, playing Harris Michaels for the first time since 1988. Although he later announced his departure from the popular show on January 4, he disclosed plans to return to General Hospital one day later.