Actor Steve Burton, who plays fan-favorite Jason Morgan on General Hospital (GH), has confirmed that he has been fired from the ABC soap.
Burton chose not to comply with ABC’s health mandate, which as of November 1st, insists that all employees must be fully vaccinated to work on set. That refusal to comply led to his termination from GH.
“I wanted you to hear it from me personally,” the star confirmed on Instagram. “Unfortunately, General Hospital has let me go because of the mandate.”
It appears as though Burton did everything he could to remain on the soap, taking measures that may have drawn out the timeline of the final decision.
“I did apply for my medical and religious exemptions, and both of those were denied,” Burton continued. “Which, you know, hurts. But this is also about personal freedom to me. I don’t think anyone should lose their livelihood over this.”
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Despite his stance on the health mandate, Burton appeared to have no regrets about his many years on the soap.
“But, with that being said, you know me, I’ll always be grateful for my time at General Hospital. I love it there, I grew up there!”
With speculation about his status at GH finally at rest, Burton seemed content to generate some excitement about the next step in his career.
“I believe that when one door closes, multiple doors open,” he said. “I am excited to see what the future brings, and maybe one day, if these mandates are lifted, I can return and finish my career as Jason Morgan. That would be an honor.”
Burton’s exit follows the departure of co-star Ingo Rademacher, who also refused to comply with ABC’s health mandate. After a few scandals, Rademacher’s final episode portraying Jasper “Jax” Jacks aired on Monday, November 22nd.
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Ryan Pratt
Ryan is an avid runner, reader, hiker and music collector. When he isn't writing and editing for Fame10 Soaps, he's relishing in the fine company of his two cats, Penny and Gus.