Long-term Port Charles role recast with GH alum's spouse

Long-term Port Charles role recast with GH alum's spouse

General Hospital's mayor, Janice Lomax, will soon have a new face. Daytime newcomer Shari Belafonte has replaced former portrayer Saidah Arrika Ekulona.

General Hospital is about to get a new mayor, with nary an election to be had.

Soap Opera Digest reports that Saidah Arrika Ekulona, who's played the role since 2012, has been replaced with soap opera newcomer Shari Belafonte.

The interesting twist: Belafonte is married to Sam Behrens, who played the role of Bobbie's husband, Jake Meyer, from 1983 to 1988. And, beyond her soap connection, Belafonte is the daughter of legendary singer, songwriter, actor, and social activist Harry Belafonte.

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Look for the New York native, who has starred on shows like Hotel, Gravedale High, Beyond Reality, and Hey Arnold!, to make her Port Charles debut in mid-January.

At this time, there's no information on whether or not the recast was GH's choice or if Ekulona chose to leave the role.

What do you think about Ekulona being replaced by Belafonte? Do you hope to see Mayor Lomax involved in more stories in 2016? Share your thoughts in the Comments section below, on our message boards, or by submitting Feedback.

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