General Hospital viewers are just a few weeks away from seeing the show's moving tribute to John Reilly (ex-Sean Donely), who passed away in January. The soap has revealed that its special episode dedicated to the late actor is set to air on Friday, May 21.
As Soap Central previously reported, Reilly's real-life daughter, Caitlin, will be appearing as Sean's daughter, Annie, in the tribute. As for how the nostalgic character will fit into the drama, Soap Opera Digest teases that several characters on the canvas -- Felicia (Kristina Wagner), Mac (John York), Anna (Finola Hughes), Laura (Genie Francis), and Kevin (Jon Lindstrom) -- will be pulled into a mystery that involves Annie (formerly known as Anna).
But that isn't the only thing that GH has planned for its tribute to Reilly. Executive producer Frank Valentini says that the show is bringing back a very special blast from the past for the upcoming episode.
"John Reilly was an incredible actor and a large part of the 58-plus-year legacy that is GH," Valentini shares. "This episode is meant to honor him and his contribution to the show's rich history. With so many fan favorites returning, new and longtime viewers will enjoy it. We had a lot of fun filming and I am grateful that we were also able to include his daughter. Viewers will hopefully also enjoy one more surprise return -- it is just too amazing to spoil."
John Reilly made his GH debut in February of 1984 and last appeared on the ABC soap in 2013. His daytime career also included roles on As the World Turns, Passions, and Sunset Beach.
What do you think of the way GH is honoring John Reilly and his Port Charles alter ego, Sean Donely? Who do you think will be making a surprise appearance for the tribute episode? We want to hear from you -- so drop your comments in the Comments section below, tweet about it on Twitter, share it on Facebook, or chat about it on our Message Boards.
