Quick Read
- Ryan Paevey is returning to ‘General Hospital,’ but not as Nathan West.
- Paevey’s character Nathan died in 2018, leaving fans heartbroken.
- He will debut as a new character in September after filming began on August 18.
- Paevey’s return follows a hiatus from acting to focus on mental health and personal challenges.
- Speculation surrounds how his new role will fit into the show’s current storylines.
Ryan Paevey, a fan-favorite actor from ABC’s long-running soap opera General Hospital, is making his highly anticipated return to the show. Known for his portrayal of Detective Nathan West from 2013 until 2018, Paevey’s return has sparked excitement among the soap’s dedicated viewers. However, this time, he won’t be reprising his role as Nathan, whose character tragically died in a dramatic storyline. Instead, he will step into the shoes of an entirely new character, marking a fresh chapter in his journey with the show.
A Beloved Character, Gone But Not Forgotten
Ryan Paevey became a household name for his role as Nathan West, a straight-arrow detective whose love story with Maxie Jones (played by Kirsten Storms) captured the hearts of viewers. Nathan’s story came to a tragic end in 2018 when he was fatally shot by his father, Cesar Faison, while protecting Maxie and their unborn child. His death left a significant void in the show and among its fans. Maxie’s journey as a grieving widow and single mother became a pivotal storyline in the aftermath of his demise.
In an interview with TV Insider, Kirsten Storms reflected on her time working with Paevey, saying, “I always laughed with him, and I enjoyed being around him. Our storyline was one of the most heartfelt I’ve been a part of.” This sentiment underscores the impact Nathan’s character had on the show and its viewers.
A Surprise Return and a New Character
The news of Paevey’s return broke on August 18, 2025, when Deadline confirmed the development. According to Paevey, the possibility of his return began with a surprise text from General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini. “We talked about different story ideas and time commitments,” Paevey shared in an interview. “I thought, if we’re going to do this, let’s surprise the fans with a meaty storyline.”
While details about his new character remain under wraps, his first day of filming was August 18, with his debut episode set to air in September. Speculation is rife among fans about how this new character will integrate into the show’s existing dynamics. With the recent return of Kelly Thiebaud as Nathan’s sister Britt and Kathleen Gati as his mother Liesl Obrecht, some viewers wonder if the new role might still be connected to the Faison/Obrecht family legacy.
The Road Back to Port Charles
Paevey’s decision to return to acting comes after a challenging period in his personal life. In 2024, he announced a hiatus from acting, citing mental health struggles and personal difficulties, including his mother’s battle with lung cancer and financial scams that deeply affected him. “The industry hasn’t felt like the place for me in quite some time,” he admitted in an interview with Heavy. During his time away, Paevey focused on his family and personal growth, stepping back from the spotlight to recalibrate.
His return to General Hospital marks a significant moment in his career comeback. In the interim, Paevey has been a staple in Hallmark and Lifetime films, building an even broader fan base. His work in movies like Unleashing Mr. Darcy and Two Tickets to Paradise showcased his versatility as an actor beyond daytime television.
What Lies Ahead?
The return of Ryan Paevey promises to bring fresh drama and intrigue to General Hospital. Fans are already buzzing with theories about how his new character will fit into the show’s complex narrative web. Will he cross paths with Maxie, reigniting echoes of their past connection? Or will his storyline carve out an entirely new trajectory?
Adding to the excitement is the recent resurgence of the Obrecht/Faison family saga. With Liesl and Britt back in the mix, the possibilities for explosive drama are endless. As head writers Elizabeth Korte and Chris Van Etten hinted, “The Faison/Obrecht clan is just getting started.” Whether Paevey’s new character ties into this storyline or ventures into uncharted territory, one thing is certain: his presence will be a game-changer.
As September approaches, fans eagerly await Paevey’s first scenes, ready to welcome him back to Port Charles with open arms. His return serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of daytime dramas and the characters that leave an indelible mark on their audiences.