Farewell Natalia: Eva LaRue Leaves General Hospital

Her time on GH was difficult but fun.

Eva LaRue has officially wrapped her run on General Hospital, exiting the show after her intense and controversial portrayal of Natalia Ramirez.Soap Opera Digest reported the news of LaRue’s exit exclusively. Natalia’s turbulent journey seemed to near its end on the June 30 episode with a dramatic turn — her suicide attempt due to the overwhelming despair of being sent off to Belize by Sonny Corinthos.

A Complicated Role and Mixed Reactions
LaRue’s role as Natalia wasn’t without its challenges, both for the character and for the actress herself. Initially brought on for a brief guest arc, Natalia quickly became a pivotal figure in the drama between Blaze (Jacqueline Grace Lopez) and Kristina (Kate Mansi), but it was her complicated relationship with Sonny (Maurice Benard) that truly ignited controversy among fans.

While the idea of Natalia finding redemption through her relationship with Sonny was explored, many viewers struggled to warm up to the character, who was originally introduced as a disapproving and homophobic mother.

LaRue admits that this was a tough transition, especially after her years portraying Maria Santos Grey on All My Children, a role that made her a beloved daytime star.

“It was hard for me as a person,” LaRue reflected, acknowledging the stark contrast between her past roles and the complex, often vilified character of Natalia.

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Despite the negative reception, LaRue has no regrets about her time on GH. She appreciated the chance to delve into such a different role, even if Natalia wasn’t embraced by fans in the way she had hoped. “It was a tough but exciting ride,” she said, recalling the highs and lows of playing a character many loved to hate.

Final Farewell and Future Plans
While LaRue’s character did not receive the happy ending many hoped for, her exit marked the end of a significant chapter on GH. Reflecting on her time on the show, LaRue shared fond memories of working with former All My Children co-stars like Finola Hughes (Anna), Laura Wright (Carly), and Maurice Benard, with whom she shared great chemistry.

“What a rock star,” LaRue said of Benard, expressing her gratitude for their on-screen partnership.

As for the future, LaRue is looking ahead to new opportunities, leaving behind a controversial yet unforgettable character. “I had a blast,” she said, “and I’m excited for what’s next.”