Jonathan Bennett, best known for his role as heartthrob Aaron Samuels in the 2004 comedy Mean Girls, is making a return to his soap opera origins. The actor has officially joined the cast of the long-running ABC drama General Hospital, with his debut episode scheduled to air in May.
E! News confirmed the casting on April 16, with Bennett himself sharing the news on Instagram with the caption, "There's a new guy in town." He will portray a character named Joe Pitzpatrick, though specific details about his role in the fictional town of Port Charles remain undisclosed.
Executive Producer Frank Valentini expressed enthusiasm about the new addition to the show. "We're so excited to have Jonathan joining our cast," Valentini said in a statement. "He's a tremendous talent and will be a fantastic addition to GH."
Bennett's career began in daytime television, playing JR Chandler on All My Children from 2001 to 2002. Following his breakout role in Mean Girls, he expanded his repertoire by hosting Food Network's Halloween Wars and starring in numerous Hallmark Channel holiday films and specials, including The Holiday Sitter and the Groomsmen trilogy.
Off-screen, Bennett is an active advocate for LGBTQIA+ visibility. He has been married to Jaymes Vaughan for four years, and the couple frequently partners with organizations like GLAAD. Reflecting on the progress made since his Mean Girls days, Bennett told Out magazine in March, "When we were younger, we never saw a love like ours on a red carpet and in the media. We always make sure we kiss so some kid somewhere can see two men who are proud to be who they are."