After 20 Years, This Is the Real Reason Why Maxie Storm Was Just Recast on ‘General Hospital’

In the world of daytime television, General Hospital has produced true TV royalty. From Jane Elliot’s biting Tracy Quartermaine to Rena Sofer’s matronly Lois, the series is filled with beloved players, both iconic and on the rise. But few have achieved the same level of iconography as Kirsten Storms as Maxie Jones. Storms has been one of General Hospital’s most beloved players for 20 years, ever since she stepped into the role of Maxie. However, the internet has been abuzz with the news that Storms was being replaced by Nicole Paggi for an extended amount of time, which has led to a slew of questions about Storms’ future with the show.

Why Did They Recast Kirsten Storms as Maxie on ‘General Hospital’?

The Cast of General Hospital standing together. — Image via ABC

Recasting roles is quite a common practice when it comes to daytime soap operas. In fact, General Hospital recently produced one of its best recasts in modern memory with Rory Gibson taking over the part of Michael Corinthos from Chad Duell. In the case of Maxie, however, the idea is certainly baffling. Storms has played the role since May 2005, and has crafted one of the show’s most beloved characters in the process. However, Paggi’s appearance on the July 3, 2025, episode as Maxie immediately raised some questions thanks to accompanying reports that suggested it was a long-term stint for Paggi. So, why and for how long will Storms be out? The answer is rather complicated.

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TV Insider confirmed that Paggi will continue to play Maxie through July, and a few installments in early August, before Storms returns to the part on August 18, 2025. Afterward, there will be a series of installments that feature Storms in the role. However, following the end of her current storyline, she will once again be out of Port Charles for another extended period. Thankfully, Storms has set the record straight for General Hospital fans.

Kirsten Storms Will Take a Leave of Absence from ‘General Hospital’

Storms has been one of General Hospital’s hardest workers for the last 20 years. As many characters and stars continue to come and go, Storms has been a part of the fabric of the medical drama for many of us. However, the series’ demanding schedule is time consuming, and Storms has announced a leave of absence for a personal matter. In a post on her personal Instagram, Storms announced she needed time off for she and her family to conduct a huge move from Los Angeles. “I’m very excited to be making Tennessee my home!” said the actress, before confirming that she is excited to return to the soap opera once she and her daughter are settled into their new home. She also reassured fans that during her absence, there is still plenty of exciting drama to which viewers can look forward.

“[I]t’s possible I will be back in December, maybe November. I promise you the storyline they have going on until my return to Port Charles is kind of incredible. You guys are going to freak out, actually. Can’t wait to see the comments online about that.” She even addressed fears fans have that her exit may be more permanent, telling viewers to “take it with a grain of salt.” Still, it’s hard to imagine Port Charles without Storms. Whether or not viewers will see Storms again after her pre-shot episodes remains to be seen. However, it’s important to remember that Maxie has always been resilient, and that the character will always have a hint of Storms’ influence, even when she’s out.

Maxie Has Been Replaced Before

general-hospital-maxie-on-jome-and-heart — Image via ABC

While Storms has always been one of General Hospital’s most reliable players, it’s unreasonable to think she wouldn’t need time off at some point over the course of two decades. Storms has taken temporary breaks from the show here and there over the years, with the most recent being a short departure in December of 2023, a period in which Nicole Paggi first stepped into the role. Before Paggi, Maxie was also played by actresses the likes of Days of Our Lives stars Jen Lilley in 2011 and Molly Burnett in 2016 and 2018, respectively. All have done wonderful jobs holding down the part of Storms in her absence, and, what’s more, it’s important to remember that Storms herself was a recast.

The cast of Season 61 of General Hospital, wearing black and sitting in a dark church.

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Much in the same way Cameron Mathison took over Port Charles’ villainous congressman, Drew, Storms stepped in to take over Maxie for Robyn Richards. Many fans often forget about the switch, which in many ways is a testament to her work in the role over the last two decades. She expressed her fears to TV Line that when she took over the part, fans would be upset about the recast. If fan concern regarding her upcoming leave is any indication, Storms needn’t have ever worried. Even when Paggi stepped into the part recently, Storms influence was strong. It was the General Hospital veteran’s work that made the character a strong, witty fan-favorite, elements that have continued to be included, even when another actress is in her shoes.

General Hospital is available to stream on Hulu in the U.S.