Maura West (Ava Jerome) and Rick Hearst (Ric Lansing) opened up about where their characters stand, and whether their romance might survive the drama in Port Charles.
Will Ric & Ava Ever Be “Over for Good”?
On General Hospital, few relationships have stirred as much tension and hope as the pairing of Ava Jerome (Maura West) and Ric Lansing (Rick Hearst). Recently, in a Soap Opera Digest exclusive, the actors opened up on whether their characters’ romance is truly finished… or just in fabulous limbo.
From Counsel to Complicity
Ric first entered Ava’s life in a professional capacity, as her attorney. But the seeds of attraction were planted early, and by 2025, their entanglement went deeper than legal strategy. A single passionate night marked a turning point, and their alliance grew stronger as they navigated betrayals, schemes, and their shared disdain for Sonny Corinthos.
That foundation of mutual trust (and mutual secrets) became the fulcrum of their bond.
Rick Hearst: “I Hope This Isn’t the End”
Hearst doesn’t see their breakup as a final curtain. “This is going to sound really screwball,” he admits, “but I really hope this isn’t the end for the two of them. I feel like Ava and Ric were just getting started!”
He confessed to feeling a tinge of sadness when the plot led them apart — not just for the characters, but for the chemistry between them. Even if the show doesn’t reunite them, Hearst says, “I would love to be in Maura West’s [Ava] orbit … I adore working with her … As one of the directors said to us, ‘I think they’re just delicious together.’”
The Liz Factor: A Lingering Pull
Romance in Port Charles is never simple, and for Ric and Ava, the ghost of Liz Webber looms large. Hearst acknowledges that Ric’s emotional tether to Liz complicates matters:
“Ava was right to sense that Ric wasn’t all-in with her, given the pull he continues to feel to Liz.”
He frames Ric’s relationship with Ava as part partnership, part physical attraction, and part emotional refuge. “He is drawn to Ava … because they have an understanding of parts of themselves that most people don’t understand.” But he also concedes: “She has feelings too … Why should she allow somebody to take advantage of her?”
So despite the spark and genuine connection, Ric’s heart may still wander.
Is Their Story Truly Over?
In soap opera logic, “over” is seldom permanent. Hearst’s belief that anything is possible carries weight, especially when actors and storytelling align. The respect and affection he expresses toward West, coupled with their electric on-screen dynamic, make “Rava” an irresistible pairing to tease and test.
As for fans, we’re left with the question: Will Ava let herself be a pawn in Ric’s conflicted heart? Will Ric prove his loyalty is more than convenient?
In Port Charles, endings are rarely final. And for Ric and Ava… perhaps, this is simply the next chapter.
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