Andrew Hawkes, the talented actor behind the duplicitous WSB agent Ross Cullum on General Hospital, reflects on his six-month journey in Port Charles. His character's death marked the end of an era, but it was a bittersweet farewell for Hawkes, who fell in love with the cast and crew during his time on the show.
Initially, Hawkes' run on the show was supposed to be brief, but it extended far beyond his initial expectations. He embraced the challenge of playing a complex and dastardly character, knowing that his time on the show was limited. Despite the emotional goodbye, Hawkes found solace in the incredible experience and the connections he made.
The actor's dedication to his craft was evident in his approach to the role. He treated his work on General Hospital as if it were a Shakespearean play, putting in the same effort and passion as he would for iconic roles like 'Death of a Salesman' or 'Richard III'. This mindset allowed him to deliver a compelling performance and create a memorable character.
Hawkes' final day of shooting was an action-packed affair, featuring stunts, a location shoot, and a helicopter. He worked closely with his co-star Ryan Paevey, with whom he shared a dressing room to run lines and block scenes. This collaboration paid off, as their on-screen chemistry was seamless.
The actor also praised his fellow cast members, including Carlo Rota, Kelly Thiebaud, and Chris McKenna, for their talent and professionalism. He was particularly fond of the younger actors, Asher Antonyzyn, Bluesy Burke, and Finn Carr, whom he described as grounded, talented, and kind.
Despite his character's demise, Hawkes' experience on General Hospital was incredibly rewarding. He connected with fans through his portrayal of Ross Cullum and his own social media presence. The actor's ability to balance the villainous nature of his character with his goofball personality resonated with viewers.
Hawkes expressed his willingness to return to the show, whether as a ghost or a new character. He cherished the relationships he formed with the cast and crew and the opportunity to contribute to the mental health series 'State of Mind' with Maurice Benard. His time on General Hospital has left a lasting impression, and he is proud of the work he accomplished during his brief but impactful run.
