Kirsten Storms Temporarily Replaced as Maxie on 'General Hospital' – What Fans Need to Know

 

General Hospital fans were surprised to see Nicole Paggi step in as Maxie Jones, replacing Kirsten Storms. Here’s why the recast happened, how long it will last, and when Storms is expected back.

 

Nicole Paggi Steps In as Maxie Jones – But Don’t Panic!

In a move that surprised General Hospital viewers, longtime star Kirsten Storms was temporarily replaced by Nicole Paggi in the role of Maxie Jones during the July 3, 2025 episode. The sudden switch left fans wondering: Is Storms leaving for good?

Thankfully, no—this is just a short-term recast due to a scheduling conflict, and Storms is expected to return to Port Charles soon.

 

Why Was Kirsten Storms Replaced?

·        Scheduling issue prevented Storms from filming recent episodes.

·        Paggi, who previously filled in for Storms in December 2023, was called back as a temporary replacement.

·        This isn’t the first time Maxie has been recast—Jen Lilley (2011-12) and Molly Burnett (2016, 2018) have also stepped in during Storms’ past absences.

 

When Will Kirsten Storms Return?

·        Paggi will appear as Maxie in episodes airing July 30 and August 13.

·        Storms is set to resume the role the week of August 18.

 

Who Is Nicole Paggi?

The 41-year-old actress is no stranger to GH or TV dramas, with credits including:

§  Hope & Faith (ABC)

§  *9-1-1* and The Rookie: Feds (guest roles)

§  Previous General Hospital fill-in stint (Dec. 2023)

 

How Are Fans Reacting?

While some viewers were initially shocked, many quickly adjusted, noting Paggi’s similar energy to Storms’ portrayal of Maxie 6. Others took to social media to express:
"I miss Kirsten, but Nicole is doing great!"
 "Hope Kirsten’s break is just for rest—she’s earned it after 20 years!"

 

Maxie’s Current Storyline

Paggi’s Maxie is embroiled in a high-stakes Deception cosmetics crisis, where she and Brook Lynn (Amanda Setton) discover Sonny’s investment may be dirty money—putting their business at risk.

This is just a brief hiatus for Storms, not a permanent exit. With Paggi holding down the fort, Maxie’s drama will continue—and fans can expect Storms’ return by mid-August.