Chris McKenna Reflects on Jack Brennan’s Exit From General Hospital

Chris McKenna is reflecting on his time as Jack Brennan on General Hospital following the character’s death.

Brennan was discovered face down in the Metro Court pool on Tuesday, marking the end of McKenna’s run as the fan-favorite character. McKenna took over the role from Charles Mesure in February 2025.

Speaking to TV Insider, McKenna said he was grateful for his time on the ABC soap despite being disappointed with how Brennan’s story ended.

“This was a gift,” McKenna said, noting that his time on the show coincided with the birth of his son. He also said he was proud of the work he did and grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with daytime television and reach a new generation of soap fans.

McKenna’s version of Brennan rose from a field operative for the World Security Bureau to become head of the WSB’s Port Charles office. The character was involved in several controversial storylines, including recruiting Josslyn Jacks into the WSB, blackmailing Nina Reeves, breaking into Carly Spencer’s home and disposing of a hitwoman’s body.

McKenna also highlighted Brennan’s relationship with Nina, played by Cynthia Watros. He said the two actors believed they had strong chemistry and described “Brennina” as “the greatest love story GH never told.”

Before joining General Hospital, McKenna appeared on One Life to Live from 1990 to 1993 and The Young and the Restless from 2014 to 2015.

His departure comes amid several major cast changes at General Hospital, including the exits of Nathan Dean, Kirsten Storms and Bradford Anderson. Laura Wright, however, has confirmed that she will return to the soap for her 21st year.