HOLLYWOOD—For weeks rumors have been speculating that a fan favorite on “General Hospital” would be biting the dust. Last week, audiences learned that character was none other than Machiavellian mastermind Ric Lansing, who was fatally shot in a scuffle with Detective Nathan West (Ryan Paevy).

His death left Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst) heartbroken. I hate to say it, but this woman has the worst luck, just as she gets close to a guy, they seem to die. Look what happened with AJ Quartermaine. Taking the news the hardest was Ric’s daughter Molly who was an emotional wreck. In the soap arena, twists are always expected, as in the final moments of last Thursday’s episode that revealed Mr. Lansing was very much alive.  Yep, his death was a complete hoax thanks to Anna (Finola Hughes) who was determined to get to the bottom of who Julian Jerome’s (William deVry) boss truly is.

The audience knows Fake Luke (Anthony Geary) is pulling the strings, but we have no idea who Fake Luke really is. We’ve been teased little tips, but no revelation at this moment. I’m speculating this is a revelation that we will not learn anytime soon, perhaps November sweeps 2014.

Ric’s ‘death’ isn’t the only thing causing waves in Port Charles because news of Nina Clay (Michelle Stafford) returning from the dead has Silas (Michael Easton) and Sam (Kelly Monaco) reeling. Yep, just when the couple were taking things to the next level, a face from the past returns. Nina is quite innocent to a degree, but I have a feeling she’s holding out more secrets than she is letting on. Silas feels obligated to take care of his ‘wife,’ while Sam is concerned that her lover may fall under his wife’s helpless act spell.

Audiences have been teased that Jason Morgan could return to the canvas, with the hints of Sam acknowledging she wouldn’t know what to do if her hubby came back from the dead? Look out Sam, all signs are pointing that this may indeed occur, but the big question is what actor will fill the shoes?  Reports are running rampant that Billy Miller (ex-Billy “Y&R”) has nabbed the role, while it’s not confirmed; he would be the perfect actor to assume the role after Steve Burton exited.

News of Ava’s (Maura West) pregnancy has her daughter Kiki (Kristen Alderson) reeling.  It’s becoming apparent that Kiki and Morgan are getting closer thanks to the duplicity by their parents. I have a feeling that Michael will experience that same hurt that he delivered to his brother by betraying him. On a side note, it’s just a matter of time before Kiki and Morgan discover that Sonny (Maurice Benard) killed AJ and Ava murdered Connie.

Fans will also be pleased with the current developments taking place between Nathan and Maxie (Kristen Storms). It looks like the roommates may be getting closer to one another, especially after he lied to the courts to help Maxie obtain visitation rights. Unfortunately, Nathan might pay the price thanks to Levi who is not pleased to see Maxie getting close to the detective.

For those wanting to be in the mix, a little birdie has unveiled that Victor Cassadine will be making another trip back to Port Charles. It seems every time he arrives something explosive takes place. Could Robin and Jason be making a return to PC or does Victor have something even sinister in his plans? “General Hospital” airs weekdays at 2 p.m. on ABC.

By LaDale Anderson