John J. York recently celebrated a big milestone when it comes to his time in Port Charles. The General Hospital star took this opportunity to share with his fans. This included a health update as well as a tribute to one of his late co-stars.
John J. York Has Brought Mac Scorpio To Life On General Hospital Since 1991
As an actor, York has been part of a number of shows throughout the years. This includes starring in the short-lived horror series, Werewolf. However, for many, York is best known for his work on General Hospital.
York first joined the soap in 1991 as Mac Scorpio. originating the role. Over the years, he has also appeared as the character on Port Charles and All My Children.
York recently celebrated 35 years on the soap. Speaking with TV Weekly, he looked back on how much the real him began to influence his Port Charles alter-ego.
As York shared, through the outlet’s sister publication, Remind, Mac started as a “mercenary, a guy with an edge. After a while, whatever personality traits I had as a human being came across onscreen. That’s when the slow turn began. Mac’s not a bad guy. He’s a good guy!”
Mac originally came to town on a ship, literally being tossed into the waters of San Pedro, California, by his brother, Robert Scorpio, who was played by the later Tristan Rogers. Despite this, in real life, York had nothing but respect for his co-star.
York Previously Faced A Medical Crisis Back In 2023
As York recalled, “Tristan was an icon in daytime. He was funny, and he embraced me. He took me under his wing. We spent a lot of time in dressing rooms talking about our scenes. He was always available and spontaneous. Tristan had a special spark, and I’m thankful he was there for me.”
Over the years, Mac would go on to be part of all sorts of stories. He became a chief of police, a father figure and a literal parent, and even fell in love. In particular, York mused over his character’s love story with Felicia. As the actor shared, “I was humbled by that. I was aware of the many Frisco and Felicia fans. They’re still out there, but Mac and Felicia have such a strong bond.”
As the outlet noted, Mac has often spent time in the show’s namesake hospital. In real life, York himself endured a medical crisis in 2023. At the time, York took a hiatus from the show to treat myelodysplastic syndrome and smoldering multiple myeloma.
Fortunately, York had a positive health update for fans. As he shared, “doing very well. It’s more about maintenance now. I was going to the hospital every day for six months for a while. Now, it’s a visit every four months.”
Despite it all, York wanted his fans and fellow General Hospital family to know how grateful he was for their support over the years. He shared, “There were times I was in the hospital, alone, and I was praying. My colleagues, Frank [Valentini, GH‘s executive producer], Kristina, Jon Lindstrom [Kevin], and others were all in touch, sending videos, sending support, and sending love. GH is my home away from home. I love it. I’m so grateful to be on this iconic show. Let’s go for another 35 years!”
What is your reaction to John J. York’s recent share? Have you been following this story? Are you keeping up with General Hospital? Make sure you come back to TV Shows Ace for all the latest TV and celebrity news.
John Witiw has been a writer since at least 2015. He’s covered a variety of topics, especially when it comes to film and television.