In a stunning casting decision, Soap Central has learned that Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth Webber) has been let go from General Hospital. According to the show, the decision to release Herbst was driven by plot.

"Storyline dictates the exit of Elizabeth Webber this spring," a General Hospital spokesperson said in a statement. "The next few months promise to be 'not-to-miss" story for the character. We at ABC and GH wish Rebecca Herbst nothing but the best in her future endeavors

Herbst was said to have been shocked by her firing. Her co-stars were equally surprised. Steve Burton (Jason Morgan), Tyler Christopher (Nikolas Cassadine), Lisa LoCicero (Olivia Falconeri), and Kelly Monaco (Sam McCall) have all shared their thoughts on Herbst exiting GH.

To read their comments, please read "Co-stars react to Rebecca Herbst's firing."

Herbst joined the cast of General Hospital in August 1997. In 2007, the actress received an Outstanding Supporting Actress nomination at the Daytime Emmys.

In addition to a lengthy run and award nominations, Herbst also met her husband, Michael Saucedo, while working on GH. The pair married in 2001. They have three children.

A final airdate for Herbst has not yet been announced, but Soap Central has learned that the actress is expected to last air sometime in March.