‘General Hospital’ Spoilers: Why Is Jason Thompson Leaving? Rumors Of A New Soap Opera Gig Swirl

The doctor is out. “General Hospital” is saying goodbye to another fan favorite character, Dr. Patrick Drake. Actor Jason Thompson announced that he will soon leave the role he has played since 2005.

The actor made the announcement on Instagram Friday, and fans will be happy to know that he was not fired. He simply felt ready to move on to new projects.

“I have made the difficult decision to bid farewell to a character I’ve loved playing for over 10 years,” Thompson wrote. “It was not an easy decision but I feel like it’s time to hang up Dr. Patrick Drake’s white coat and scrubs.”

He went on to thank everyone that he has worked with on the ABC soap, as well as the fans. However, soap opera viewers may not have seen the last of Thompson. Unlike his former co-star Anthony Geary, Thompson isn’t retiring. He may even have a new job lined up.

Earlier this month, the print issue of ABC Soaps in Depth (via Soap Shows) reported that the 38-year-old was considering leaving “GH” and already had offers from other shows. Their sources claimed that he was approached to take over the role of Billy Abbott on CBS’ “The Young and the Restless” after Burgess Jenkins leaves the drama. Thompson’s next role has yet to be confirmed.

No announcements have been made regarding whether the show will write off Dr. Drake or recast him. “General Hospital” will have no shortage of characters if they choose the former. Several characters will return to the soap opera in the coming weeks. Kimberly McCullough will return as Robin Scorpio in November after leaving in January, ABC revealed, and her father won’t be far behind. Tristan Rogers will reprise the role of Robert Scoripo in December after almost two years on hiatus.

“General Hospital” airs weekdays on ABC. Check your local listings.