‘General Hospital’ Spoilers & Cast Rumors: Jason Thompson Leaving Port Charles; Actor To Join Young & Restless?

Dr. Patrick Drake of "General Hospital" has been rumored to be leaving Port Charles for some time already and now reports say that the actor Jason Thompson has decided not to renew his contract with the soap.

According to Soaps.com, Jason Thompson's (Dr. Patrick Drake) exit has not been officially confirmed yet but sources say that the actor's contract with ABC is expiring and he decided not to sign another one. Meanwhile, Soaps In Depth said (via Celeb Dirty Laundry) that multiple sources have confirmed to the magazine that Thompson is exiting "General Hospital" very soon and that "he made it known to his colleagues and employers that he was planning to exit GH."

As to how Dr. Drake will be leaving Port Charles, the speculation is that it would be related to the return of Robin Scorpio (Kimberly McCullough) and the upcoming revelation that Jake Doe is Jason Morgan, Star Pulse reported. Kimberly's return in November would also bring opportunity for Robin and Patrick's reconciliation. It could be that Robin and Patrick will leave together, or there will be a recast of Dr. Drake.

Another rumor is that Jason Thompson will be joining "The Young and the Restless." We Love Soaps said that Soaps In Depth also reported that the actor "was in talks with another soap, and there was at least one additional drama that had express interest in adding the popular star to its cast."

Jason has been silent about the rumors of him leaving GH and joining Y&R. But fans are already sad to hear the news and are hoping it is not true. He's been with GH since 2005.

Wally Kurth, who briefly reprised his role in GH as Ned Ashton, reacted to the rumor and said on Twitter, "That's a big loss. Hope it's not true." Kurth is now with another soap "Days of Our Lives."