‘General Hospital’ Cast & Spoilers: Tyler Christopher Not Coming Back Over Failed Contract Negotiations

Just as fans are eagerly awaiting Tyler Christopher's return on "General Hospital," reports now say that the contract negotiation with the actor has failed. With that, it looks like Nikolas Cassadine is not reappearing just yet. And when he does, he will have a new face.

Tyler Christopher took a temporary leave from "General Hospital" back in May. In his absence, Nick Stabile stepped in to play as Nik until late July. According to Soap Opera Digest, Tyler Christopher and the "General Hospital" management's negotiation "fell apart" last month. The actor was supposed to be back on GH this September, which Tyler himself teased at a GH Fan Club Weekend event, although he said nothing is official yet.

Tyler Christopher originated the role of Nikolas Cassadine, Laura Spencer's first child, back in 1996. Fans who have been anticipating his return are disappointed to hear the news. Tyler Christopher wrote on Twitter, "Thank u all for your kind words. You're the best fans in the world. I will miss u! #whatarun."

Thank u all for your kind words. You're the best fans in the world. I will miss u! #whatarun

— Tyler Christopher (@Tyler2929) September 15, 2016

No details were revealed regarding the failed contract negotiations nor what is going to happen to Nikolas Cassadine. For now, his future looks uncertain. Since people in Port Charles know that he has been killed off, he can remain as dead. TPTB in "General Hospital" may, of course, opt to recast him. Maybe Nick Stabile can come back full time?

It is going to be a little complicated to totally write off Prince Nik as he touches other storylines. "General Hospital" spoilers via Celebrity Dirty Laundry tease that Lulu Spencer is coming back to the Cassadine Island as she continues to search for her missing embryo. But when she gets there, she will see her brother alive.

How do you feel about Tyler Christopher's shocking exit? Who would you like to take over as Nik?

"General Hospital" airs Mondays to Fridays at 2:30 p.m. on ABC.