Overview
- Executive producer Frank Valentini confirmed Dean’s on-screen return in April and teased “a great story” with “a few twists.”
- Dean, formerly credited as Nathan Parsons, originated Ethan in 2009, departed in 2012, and made brief returns in 2013, 2015, and 2020.
- The role was recast with James Ryan for Ethan’s April 2023 appearances, and the 2026 move restores the original actor.
- Entertainment Weekly noted the comeback carries added poignancy following Anthony Geary’s death on Dec. 14, 2025.
- Ethan, the son of Holly Sutton and Luke Spencer, has been off-screen since heading back to Australia and will reenter the canvas on ABC this spring.