Dominic Zamprogna has been a familiar face to General Hospital fans since 2009, portraying the role of undercover detective Dante Falconeri. However, his journey on the show witnessed a significant break when he left in 2018. This decision wasn’t easy for Zamprogna, who admitted that he needed time to explore new opportunities and establish connections in the industry.
Zamprogna Takes a Break
Reflecting on his departure, Zamprogna told Soap Opera Digest, A couple of things were going on at that time. I had never been in this town as a free agent, so to speak. I came here with this job and didn’t know any casting people. I was almost 40 and I thought, ‘Okay, worst-case scenario, the show gets canceled tomorrow, I haven’t done my due diligence in this town to make sure people know me.’
The actor, who hadn’t been able to audition for other projects while on General Hospital, realized he needed to network more effectively. He mentioned how GH’s executive producer Frank Valentini provided him an opportunity to work outside the show briefly, which proved beneficial for widening his professional horizons.
The Importance of a Mental Health Break
This break turned out to be crucial for Zamprogna. He described it as a kind of a mental health break, acknowledging the benefits of stepping away from Port Charles after playing the same character for such an extended period. During this hiatus, he engaged in numerous auditions and meetings, rekindling his passion for acting by experiencing different roles.
Returning to Familiar Grounds
Fans were overjoyed when Dante Falconeri returned to General Hospital in 2020. Zamprogna felt similarly excited about his return, stating, The reason for coming back also is because I love it here and I legitimately missed my friends that I’ve made here.
He emphasized the importance of being part of a supportive team and cherished the camaraderie on set.
Zamprogna shared his thoughts on wrapping up Dante’s story arc with Valentini, who had reached out about a short-term stint to address loose ends. He felt kind of bad the way we had left things for fans, as far as the character, where he was, why he hadn’t come back, and how he’d sort of abandoned his family.
With that assurance, Zamprogna filmed scenes alongside Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos) and Emme Rylan (Lulu Falconeri).
A New Chapter Begins
As life normalizes post-pandemic disruptions, General Hospital‘s cast has resumed taping at ABC studios, and Dominic Zamprogna rejoining them marks a significant moment for GH fans. His return has rejuvenated storylines and solidified his place within the tightly-knit community of General Hospital.
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