Viewers speculated that Chavez permanently left the series after his name disappeared from the show’s closing credits in late MarchNicholas Alexander Chavez is officially leaving the sleepy town of Port Charles.

May 4 (UPI) -- Daytime Emmy Award-winner Nicholas Alexander Chavez has confirmed he is leaving the ABC soap opera General Hospital.

The actor did say, however, that he and an executive producer are ‘talking very openly about future possibilities for Spencer in Port Charles.’

ET: Nicholas Alexander Chavez confirmed his exit from General Hospital on Friday, May 3. "I’m so appreciative of the opportunity that GH gave me, and I wouldn’t be as busy as I am professionally if it weren’t for the talented producers,

General Hospital fans knew it was coming, but that doesn’t make it sting any less. When Nicholas Alexander Chavez debuted as Spencer Cassadine, he was an immediate hit with the fan base. Couple that with pairing him with Trina (first Sydney Mikayla,

In his statement, Chavez reflected on the invaluable support and guidance he received from the "General Hospital" team, specifically acknowledging executive producer Frank Valentini. "Frank has been both a mentor and a friend,