A major casting shake-up appears to be in the works at General Hospital.

As first discovered by Soap Opera Digest, ABC has released a casting note, likely for the role of Sam McCall, who has been portrayed by Kelly Monaco since 2003.

The notice reads that the series is seeking an actress in her "early 30s, female, Caucasian, brunette, sexy, dynamic and fiery...SERIES REGULAR. This is a character who has been established on the show."

An ABC spokesperson has no comment at this time. But we're guessing General Hospital fans have a lot to say about this possibility, right?

** UPDATE: This looks to have been a premature rumor. Monaco has signed a new contract with General Hospital. Phew!

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.