What happened to John York’s character on General Hospital? Character’s fate explored 

John J. York's portrayal of Malcolm "Mac" Scorpio has been a beloved and enduring General Hospital character for decades. He was brought in 1991 as the younger brother of Robert Scorpio and developed from mysterious new arrival to fixture in Port Charles, a dedicated police commissioner, stepfather, husband, and loyal friend.

Following an in-real-life health crisis for the actor in 2023, fans were concerned about Mac's ongoing presence on General Hospital, but as of 2025, Mac is back and firmly in the thick of things.

Who is Mac Scorpio in General Hospital?

Mac Scorpio first appeared on General Hospital on February 14, 1991. Though he had a tense childhood with his brother Robert, Mac grew into a dependable and moral figure in town. He helped raise Robin Scorpio after Robert and Anna were presumed dead and later became stepfather to Maxie and Georgie Jones after marrying Felicia Cummings.

Mac has had numerous careers in Port Charles, from private detective to multiple terms as police commissioner. With his integrity, he's the voice of reason in times of crisis. His long-standing romance with Felicia and his fatherly devotion to his very large family have solidified him in the affections of fans.

A real-life battle and triumphant return

Reportedly, John was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome and smoldering multiple myeloma in September 2023. He exited the show to undergo chemotherapy and receive a life-saving stem cell transplant. York publicly documented his illness, using the experience to raise awareness about bone marrow donation and encourage observers to become part of the Be The Match registry.

After a successful transplant and healing for months, York returned to filming in May 2024. His on-screen return aired on June 19, 2024, and the cast and fans of General Hospital opened their arms to welcome him back.

Is Mac Scorpio still on General Hospital in 2025?

Indeed, Mac Scorpio not only still languishes on General Hospital, but he's also deeply entrenched in significant storylines as of June 2025. John J. York continues in recurring status, and his character has been front and center in major emotional and family-driven plotlines.

One of the most emotional storylines has been Mac being confirmed as Cody Bell's biological father. Even though DNA test results were revealed in November 2022, Cody had previously kept them from everyone. He finally admitted to Mac on July 4, 2024, in an emotional scene that settled a long-standing mystery. Since then, viewers have witnessed tender moments as Mac, Cody, and Felicia adjusted to this new normal as a family.

Mac was also part of June 2025 scenes marking another Scorpio family milestone: the birth of baby Daisy, Sasha and Cody's newborn daughter. Mac was one of the support team around the event when the baby was suddenly born on June 2 at the courthouse. The scenes reinforced Mac's role as the emotional core and father figure of the Scorpio family.

What's next for Mac on General Hospital?

Mac remains an important force in Port Charles. Outside of family storylines, he is still working in a leadership capacity in law enforcement, offering guidance and moral leadership as the town continues to be wracked by turmoil.

While no dramatic exits or shock surprises are in store for Mac, his supporters will be encountering much more of him in upcoming episodes. His return to health, both on the show and in real life, has given new emotional richness to the character.

Mac Scorpio's journey is more than the typical soap opera path—it's a testament to longevity, loyalty, and love. From his early brooding younger brother years to the present day as dad, husband, and leader of his community, Mac has been a steady force on General Hospital. John J. York's victorious return after his health battle only serves to add richness to the emotional arc of his character.

Catch the latest episodes of General Hospital streaming on ABC.

Edited by Divya Singh