When fans of ABC’s long-running soap opera General Hospital noticed Josh Kelly’s (Cody Bell) name missing from the closing credits, alarm bells started ringing. In the soap world, that omission usually means one thing: a cast member has shifted from a contract role to recurring status. For many, it sparked immediate speculation that Kelly might be on his way out.
Kelly, who joined the show in 2022, has been right in the middle of a tangled storyline involving Ava Jerome (Maura West), Kristina Corinthos-Davis (Kate Mansi), and Molly Lansing-Davis (Kristen Vaganos). His character, Cody, is playing a dangerous game—seducing Ava for money while seemingly developing feelings for Molly, who happens to be Kristina’s sister. With all that drama brewing, the idea of Cody disappearing from Port Charles was a shock fans weren’t ready for.
But according to Josh Kelly, the rumors couldn’t be further from the truth. Speaking to Soap Opera Digest, he clarified that moving to recurring status was entirely his choice—not the show’s. And rather than signaling an exit, he says it’s exactly the opposite.
“I want to stay on General Hospital forever!” Kelly said enthusiastically. “I love being here. I love everyone I’m working with on the show. I just wanted a little more flexibility.”
The decision, Kelly explained, comes down to creative opportunities. He’s currently working on two projects with his girlfriend, Chloe Lanier, who fans will remember as the scheming Nelle Benson on General Hospital. One of those projects is a sequel to his indie film The Workout, which is set for release this summer.
“If you’re on contract, you can’t just go off and do a bunch of other projects,” Kelly explained. “And I wouldn’t expect the show to work around my schedule.”
Fortunately, GH executive producer Frank Valentini has been fully supportive, helping to arrange a schedule that allows Kelly to pursue outside work while keeping Cody’s story alive on screen.
Kelly’s decision means that, while viewers might see him slightly less often, Cody will remain an active part of Port Charles’ drama. And given where his current storyline is headed—juggling romance, betrayal, and hidden agendas—there’s plenty left to keep fans hooked.
“I think the story is fun and interesting, and I’m really excited to continue with it,” Kelly teased.
So, for fans worried about saying goodbye to Cody Bell anytime soon, rest easy. Josh Kelly is sticking around General Hospital—just on his own terms. And if his off-screen projects are as compelling as the drama in Port Charles, we might be seeing a lot more of his work in the near future.
