ABC

Kelly Monaco, who shot her final General Hospital episode as Sam McCall on September 27, after being informed in August that the show was writing her out after a nearly 21-year stint, shared a behind-the-scenes photo of her final scenes with her on-screen family, known to fans as “the Davis girls”: on-screen sister Kate Mansi (Kristina), on-screen mother Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis) and on-screen sister Kristen Vaganos (Molly). Her poignant caption read: “Last scene with the Davis girls. 😘🥲🙏🏻 I still don’t understand it.”

News of Monaco’s departure from the show – what so far General Hospital has made no official comment on – sparked a huge backlash from fans, many of whom gathered around Monaco and fought for the show to reverse its decision. The fan-led campaign included a petition declaring: “We are making a plea to the producers and the network: keep Kelly Monaco on General Hospital. By signing this petition, you join thousands of General Hospital fans in supporting a valuable part of the show’s history. It’s time to respect the dedication and emotional investment of the viewers, especially Kelly, who poured their time and hearts into the character. Please join us in this critical rallying cry: Let’s keep Kelly Monaco on General Hospital!” On October 6, there were more than 16,000 signatures. Fans also continue to flood social media with hashtags in support of Monaco and her Port Charles alter ego, such as #IStandWithKelly, #SaveKelly and #SaveSamMcall.

The actress’ mother, Carmina Monaco, addressed the fans’ outrage and efforts in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter) on her daughter’s last day of work. “I want to take this moment to reach out to Kelly’s incredible fans and express my deepest gratitude for the unwavering love, loyalty and support you have shown her throughout her time on General Hospital,” she wrote, adding added: “On this final Day, just four days before the anniversary of her first episode on October 1, 2003, Kelly will close the door to her dressing room for the last time. This moment is difficult, but knowing that she has had such an incredible, dedicated fan base has given her strength. You have supported her at every turn, celebrated her achievements and provided comfort during the difficult times. Your love and dedication have meant more than words can express, not only to Kelly but to all of us who care about her so deeply. Thank you for being there, for believing in her and for reminding her of the impact she made. We will always be grateful that you supported her through it all.”

The final episode of Monaco will air later this fall and she indicated that she plans to make “quite a statement” about her departure.

See the backstage photo she posted below.