The OG Ethan is back. Nathan Dean returns to General Hospital in April after a six-year absence, and the reasons he’s coming home read like a checklist of drama: a funeral, a sister he hasn’t seen in years, a woman who nearly destroyed his life, and a grudge against the most powerful man in Port Charles.
Frank Valentini confirmed Nathan Dean is back “for a story” — suggesting a limited arc rather than a permanent return. But with May sweeps kicking off April 23rd, Ethan’s arrival is positioned for maximum impact.
Robert Scorpio’s Funeral
The most likely reason for Ethan’s return: Robert Scorpio’s upcoming offscreen farewell. Tristan Rogers passed away in August 2025, and the show will be honoring his character in the coming months. Ethan — Holly Sutton’s son — would naturally escort his mother to the funeral, or represent her if Emma Samms isn’t available to film.
Holly originally claimed Robert was Ethan’s father before revealing Luke Spencer was the real dad. But the Scorpio connection runs deep enough that Ethan would absolutely be there for this moment.
Reuniting with Lulu
Ethan hasn’t seen his sister Lulu since she woke from her coma. There’s Luke’s passing to process together. There’s years of catching up. And there’s the intriguing possibility that GH originally planned this arc for Lucky Spencer — Jonathan Jackson reportedly declined anything beyond a brief stint — and gave it to Ethan instead.
That means Ethan might be stepping into storylines that were originally designed for the Spencer family’s most central character.
The Kristina Question
Here’s where it gets complicated. Ethan’s history with Kristina Corinthos is one of the most painful in GH’s recent memory. Kristina had a crush on Ethan as a teenager. When her abusive boyfriend Kiefer beat her severely, Ethan took her to the hospital — and Kristina lied and said Ethan was the one who attacked her.
Sonny Corinthos threatened to have Ethan eliminated. Ethan was arrested and made a town pariah. Kristina eventually apologized and Ethan forgave her, but that was sixteen years ago. Kristina hasn’t had a meaningful romance in years. The possibility of a rekindled connection — one built on forgiveness and history — is real.
The Sonny Angle
And then there’s Sonny. The man who nearly had Ethan ended over a false accusation. Ethan could be holding a grudge for sixteen years — and arriving in Port Charles just as Josslyn is already talking about taking down Sonny.
Ethan and Josslyn are cousins. If they figure out they share a common target, that alliance could be devastating.
Why do you think Ethan is really coming back — Robert’s funeral, Kristina, or revenge? Tell us below.
