Erika Slezak Joins General Hospital: A Long-Awaited Reunion with Chris McKenna Sparks Fan Speculation

By [Your Name] | Soap Opera Daily

The soap universe is buzzing again—this time with the long-awaited return of a beloved icon.

Veteran actress Erika Slezak, best known for her legendary role as Viki Buchanan on One Life to Live, is officially joining the cast of General Hospital. Her arrival has sent longtime soap fans into a frenzy—especially those who remember the heartfelt mother-son bond she shared on-screen with Chris McKenna, who played young Joey Buchanan from 1990 to 1993.

Now, decades later, the two are poised to share the screen once more—and McKenna couldn’t be more thrilled.

💬 Chris McKenna Reflects on His Soap Roots

In a recent interview with Michael Fairman TV, McKenna opened up about the impact Slezak had on his early career and the excitement surrounding her GH debut.

“Everyone knew me as Joey—even Frank Valentini,” McKenna joked, referencing General Hospital’s executive producer, who also led One Life to Live from 1986 to 2012. “I’m glad I’m finally changing some of that perception.”

McKenna, who now plays Jack Brennan on GH, took over the role after Charles Mesure and has since made it his own. But for him, the connection with Slezak goes far beyond nostalgia.

❤️ A Bond That Endures Off-Screen

Despite the end of One Life to Live, McKenna and Slezak never lost touch. “She pulled my mother aside on my first day on set and said, ‘That kid—he’s something.’ That meant everything,” he recalled warmly.

Over the years, Slezak remained a strong presence in his life, often offering support and guidance. “She protected me on set. She told me to trust my instincts and not to worry too much about what directors said,” McKenna shared. “As soon as I got this role on GH, she reached out to me.”

He still considers her his second mother, saying, “She means so much to me. I’ll always be her son.”

And while it’s not yet confirmed whether Slezak will reprise her iconic role as Viki or debut as a new character, McKenna admitted, “What I wouldn’t give to work with her for just one day again.”

🧩 Fan Theories: Will Viki Buchanan Enter Port Charles?

The soap world is no stranger to crossovers—and fans have taken notice. Since General Hospital and One Life to Live share the same universe, it’s entirely possible Slezak could bring Viki Buchanan to Port Charles.

Hints have been dropping for weeks: mentions of Llanview, references to Erica Kane (played by Susan Lucci), and nods to the ABC soap legacy. It’s clear the groundwork has been laid—and fans are watching closely.

🎭 A New Chapter for McKenna’s Jack Brennan

Meanwhile, McKenna is thriving as Jack Brennan on General Hospital. He’s found his groove in Port Charles, especially working alongside Laura Wright (Carly) and Eden McCoy (Josslyn). The character has been stirring up intrigue by secretly recruiting Josslyn as a spy, and McKenna says the chemistry with his co-stars made him feel at home “very quickly.”

🌟 What’s Next for Erika Slezak on GH?

Whether Slezak reprises her iconic role or surprises fans with something new, one thing is clear—her presence will be felt. And for longtime viewers who remember the golden days of OLTL, the reunion between “Viki” and “Joey” is more than a nostalgic nod—it’s a moment of soap opera magic.

As General Hospital continues to weave its rich, interconnected stories, fans can’t help but wonder: Will Viki Buchanan finally walk into Port Charles? Or will Slezak’s new character bring an entirely fresh wave of drama?

Either way, daytime television just got a lot more exciting.

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