While General Hospital fans are still processing yesterday's news that Marcus Coloma will no longer be playing the role of Nikolas Cassadine, Coloma confirmed that he is having a rough time processing it as well.
The actor took to Instagram to address his exit from the ABC soap and to thank fans that had been offering him words of encouragement since word of his firing broke.
"Marcus Coloma will no longer be playing the role of Nikolas Cassadine. It's hard to even say it. I get so sad when I think about it," Coloma said as he momentarily closed to eyes in reflection. "Look, I don't know what I can or can't say other than what an incredible ride."
An ABC rep confirmed Coloma will last appear as Nikolas in January. A reason for Coloma's dismissal was not provided and ABC has yet to reveal if the role of Nikolas will be recast.
Coloma did not address a report that he refused to finish filming his final scenes once he learned he was being let go.
The actor also did not address the reason for unfollowing the people he had been following on social media, but Coloma did address his feelings for his former castmates.
"There is such a family feel at General Hospital, which I felt so blessed to be a part of," Coloma commented.
Coloma also insisted that he, Kin Shriner (Scott Baldwin), and Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos) will continue to make their amusing Instagram videos together. "Maurice said he's gonna change his number on me, but I know where he lives," Coloma quipped.
Coloma thanked fans for their support, calling GH fans "the best fans in the entire world, and I think a lot of that is just because you guys have been watching for such a long time. Thank you for including me. Thanks for the love."
You can watch Coloma's entire video statement below -- and check out a very cute cameo from someone special.
To view our extensive and updated character profile on Nikolas, check out Soap Central's Who's Who page by clicking here.
How do you feel about Coloma leaving the role of Nikolas Cassadine? How do you think his absence will affect story? Are you hoping the role will continue somewhere down the line? We want to hear from you -- and there are many ways you can share your thoughts.
