Charles Mesure exits General Hospital as Chris McKenna takes over the Brennan role amid the soap opera recast shakeup.

Why is Jack Brennan’s General Hospital role recast?
Charles Mesure, 54, exited as Brennan after just two months, with his final episode airing January 30.
The actor, known for Desperate Housewives and The Magicians, admitted struggling with soap opera demands initially: “An old dog learning new tricks.”
GH confirmed Chris McKenna, 47, steps in starting February 4, declaring they’re “excited” to advance Brennan’s “thrilling arc.”
How did Chris McKenna react to the casting?
The One Life to Live alum celebrated on Instagram, posting Soap Opera Digest’s report with a tease: “Brennan’s got a brand new bag.”
Co-star Laura Wright welcomed him warmly via Stories, nodding to Port Charles’ latest face. McKenna’s rebooted role debuts February 6, with fans eager for fresh villainy.
What haunted Mesure’s soap debut?
In a 2024 interview, Mesure peeled back curtain fears: doubting he could handle torrents of dialogue or revive “leading man” status at 53. Strikes delayed his start, but meeting the cast dissolved worries.
“Fun” outweighed nerves, he said—though swift exit hints clashes. Did burnout bite?

Where can fans catch Brennan’s next move?
GH airs weekdays on ABC, with Hulu streaming new episodes. McKenna’s takeover promises revamped schemes, while Mesure pivots—possibly to darker TV realms.
Will Brennan’s “exciting storyline” lure viewers amid chaos? Tune in.
Quick Facts About GH’s Brennan Recast
- Charles Mesure departed the Brennan role on January 30 after a brief 2023-2024 stint.
- Chris McKenna (One Life to Live) assumes the part starting February 4.
- Measure cited soap opera pace fears: “Huge dialogue” and age doubts.
- Laura Wright welcomed McKenna on Instagram, signaling cast camaraderie.
- GH streams on Hulu; Brennan’s “exciting” arc continues with new intensity.