'General Hospital' hints at Steve Burton's return for 16,000th episode

The longest-running American soap opera in production is marking a major milestone."General Hospital" celebrated the taping of its 16,000th episode on June 1, the show revealed in a video posted on social media.

The clip featured cast members commemorating the moment on set, including with a cake featuring the episode number.

"There's nothing like celebrating a milestone with friends, family, and cake to cure a case of the Mondays. 63 years and 16,000 episodes later, we’re still going strong thanks to all of you!" the caption read.

Eagle-eyed fans were also quick to notice several familiar faces taking part in the celebration, a possible hint at who could be returning to the show.

"General Hospital" has been airing since 1963.

Steve Burton, Finola Hughes spotted at 'General Hospital' set

Among those seen in the video are Steve Burton and Finola Hughes, two longtime cast members who have recently been on hiatus from the show. In the comments, fans expressed excitement about their hinted returns.

Burton, who plays Jason Morgan, announced in February that he would be taking a "short break" from "General Hospital."

"I’m newly married and looking forward to spending some quality time with my family. I’m grateful for all the support and will be back this summer," he wrote in an Instagram post.

Meanwhile, Hughes last appeared as Anna Devane in February. Viewers last heard she was receiving mental health treatment in France after being kidnapped.

When does 'General Hospital' 16,000th episode come out? How to watch

The milestone 16,000th episode of "General Hospital" is set to air on Monday, July 13, TV Insider and Soap Opera Network reported.

The show airs on ABC and can be streamed on Hulu.

Melina Khan is a national trending reporter for USA TODAY. Keep up with her on X @melinakh and Instagram @bymelinakhan.