General Hospital fans were surprised to see James West looking a little different during the Thursday (July 16) episode of the show.
The actor who has been playing him, Gary James Fuller, had to take a brief break and actor Easton Winn stepped in to temporarily fill in for him.
James West is the son of Nathan (Ryan Paevey) and Maxie (Kirsten Storms). He was previously played by twins until Gary James Fuller took over the role in April 2023.
Gary James Fuller sustained an injury while riding a bike
On Gary‘s Instagram, a post uploaded on June 5, 2026 explained what happened. He was riding a mini bike and the little outing “turned into a trip to the trauma center, two surgeries, and almost a week in the hospital.”
Because of this, he was absent filming for Thursday’s episode, hence why another actor had to temporarily fill in for him.
Shows are filmed in advance, so it seems like he’s doing much better now, thankfully.
“The good news is that I’m doing well and getting stronger every day. The doctors, nurses, and hospital staff took amazing care of me, and I’m really thankful for everyone who helped and everyone who sent messages, prayers, and support,” read the caption.
The end of the post also joked that he was going to let his on-screen character James “handle the ER storylines.”
Kate Mansi exited the show earlier this year. Find out why.
Posted To:ABC Easton Winn Gary James Fuller General Hospital Television
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