As soap opera enthusiasts are well aware, change is an integral part of the genre’s landscape. Yet, the announcement of Kate Mansi joining the cast of “General Hospital” as the beloved character, Kristina Corinthos-Davis, has still caused quite a stir. Mansi, who received won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Abigail Deveraux-Dimera on NBC/Peacock’s “Days of our Lives,” opened up about her surprising career move in a recent interview with Soap Opera Digest.
Mansi shared intimate details from her initial Zoom meeting with “General Hospital’s” executive producer, Frank Valentini, and casting director, Mark Teschner. She expressed gratitude for their commendations regarding her past performances and valued their insights into the unique environment of “General Hospital.”
Assuming the role of Kristina, a complex character caught between two worlds with dysfunctional family dynamics, and one who happens to be bisexual, helping her younger sister deal with a endometriosis diagnosis, is no small undertaking. Yet, Mansi seems to be embracing the challenge with enthusiasm and sensitivity. She acknowledges the importance of respecting the legacy of the character, particularly the contributions of her predecessor, Lexi Ainsworth. In a testament to her considerate nature, Mansi reached out to Ainsworth, whom she calls a friend, ensuring her understanding of the profound respect she holds for her work.
The transition from Ainsworth to Mansi will inevitably be a process for the show’s loyal viewers. Mansi recognizes the complexity of this shift, expressing that her portrayal of Kristina will reflect both continuity and change. Drawing from her personal experiences in the realm of soap opera recasting, she advocates for a nuanced perspective from the fans. She articulates that the daytime drama world is a place where fans can simultaneously appreciate different portrayals of the same character, insisting that love for one actor does not diminish admiration for another.
As Mansi prepares to step into the shoes of Kristina, she expresses gratitude and excitement for the opportunity. She is eager to make her mark on the Davis family storyline and invites viewers to welcome this new wave of change with open arms.
For a more comprehensive glimpse into Mansi’s transition to “General Hospital,” fans are encouraged to read her full interview in the upcoming issue of Soap Opera Digest.