Three-time Emmy winner Rick Hearst (Ric Lansing) is headed back to General Hospital.

"Great to be back with my @GeneralHospital family! Thanks to @valentinifrank @carlivatiron for helping make this happen," Hearst announced on Twitter. "And to ALL the FANS that have been so supportive over the years. Much love to you! Get ready for a GREAT RIDE!"

Hearst made his GH debut back in 2002, but it's been more than four years since Hearst last appeared on-screen. When the actor made his final appearance in 2009, his fictional alter ego was said to be leaving Port Charles for Los Angeles. The write-off was a nod to the fact that Hearst was headed to CBS's The Bold and the Beautiful, which is set in Los Angeles.

Ric has plenty of ties to characters currently on the canvas. In addition to being Sonny's brother, Ric is also Molly's dad. For a complete breakdown of Ric's history, including who he's related to as well as his former love interests, be sure to check out our Who's Who in Port Charles section.

In addition to his work on General Hospital and The Bold and the Beautiful, Hearst has also appeared on The Young and the Restless, Guiding Light, and Days of our Lives, where he got his start as Scotty Banning in 1989.

Hearst picked up two Outstanding Supporting Actor Daytime Emmys during his previous GH stint. He also was named Outstanding Young Man (now Younger Actor) for his work as Alan-Michael Spaulding on Guiding Light in 1991.

Hearst will first appear on-screen on February 24.

Are you excited that Rick Hearst is returning? Who do you think Ric's first scenes will be with? Tell us what you think in the Comments area below, or you can also click here to submit feedback.