The year 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the most transformative chapters yet for General Hospital fan favorite Josh Swickard. While his on-screen alter ego,

Detective Harrison Chase, finds himself embroiled in professional turmoil and emotional upheaval in Port Charles, Swickard’s real-life story is unfolding with far more joy —

and just as much intensity. The actor and his wife, Lauren Swickard, have officially announced they are expecting their third child, expanding their growing family

and ushering in a brand-new season of life. For viewers who have followed Swickard’s career both on and off screen, the news feels especially poignant. The actor has spent recent months portraying Chase at his most vulnerable, suspended from the PCPD and fighting to clear his ex-wife Willow’s name in the explosive Drew Cain shooting storyline. Now, behind the scenes, Swickard is stepping into a role that carries far more responsibility — and immeasurable happiness — as he prepares to become a father of three.

General Hospital star Josh Swickard (Chase) and wife Lauren Swickard.

A New Year’s Surprise That Melted Hearts

The couple shared their joyful announcement with fans in early January, posting a heartfelt video across their social media platforms that instantly captured attention and admiration. Lauren Swickard’s caption read like a love letter to the future: “Exciting New Year’s update from the Swickard fam 💕🥳🥹 @joshswickard just a couple more months…🥰.”

The video itself told a story of growth, grounding, and gratitude. It opened with idyllic scenes of family life on the Swickards’ farm outside Los Angeles — a place they’ve proudly called home since 2023. Josh and Lauren were shown riding a tractor alongside their two young children, Savannah, born in April 2021, and Arthur, born in February 2023. Laughter, sunshine, and wide-open land set the tone before the words appeared on screen: “The Swickard farm is… GROWING!!!”

What followed was a montage of deeply personal moments — Lauren cradling her baby bump, celebrating her positive pregnancy test with a joyful dance, and tender family snapshots that reflected a household brimming with love. The video closed with polished stills from a family photo shoot, signaling not just a pregnancy announcement, but the beginning of an entirely new chapter.

Among the first to react was General Hospital veteran Steve Burton, himself a father of three, who quickly “liked” the post — a subtle but meaningful nod of support from one soap star dad to another.

From On-Screen Romance to Real-Life Partnership

Josh and Lauren Swickard’s love story has long felt cinematic. The couple first met while starring opposite one another in the romantic film Roped, where chemistry sparked both on and off screen. They tied the knot in 2019, embarking on a partnership that has seamlessly blended marriage, parenthood, and shared creative ambitions.

Their collaboration continued with the Netflix hit A California Christmas, a project Lauren not only starred in but also wrote. The film became a surprise success, resonating with audiences and spawning a sequel, A California Christmas: City Lights. Through it all, the Swickards established themselves as a rare Hollywood duo — deeply collaborative, creatively aligned, and fiercely supportive of one another.

That support came full circle in 2023 when Lauren made her own appearance on General Hospital, portraying Janice, a nurse at Ferncliff. Though the role was short-term, it marked a special moment for the couple, who briefly shared the same professional world.

Josh later admitted that watching Lauren step onto the soap set made him more nervous than she was. He revealed that while soaps operate at a breakneck pace compared to feature films, Lauren handled the transition with remarkable calm. He praised her composure and professionalism, admitting he was blown away by how effortlessly she adapted to the demanding environment.

Growing Pains, Growing Joys

Parenthood has been a defining journey for the Swickards. When Savannah arrived in 2021, the couple embraced first-time parenthood with openness and humility. Two years later, the birth of Arthur added another layer of complexity — and joy — to their lives.

Josh previously shared candid reflections on navigating the transition from one child to two, admitting that Savannah experienced moments of jealousy as she adjusted to no longer being an only child. Still, he emphasized how loving and protective she ultimately became toward her baby brother.

At the time, the family was also undergoing a major lifestyle shift, relocating to their farm — a move that symbolized their desire for a slower, more grounded pace of life. Swickard described that period as chaotic yet magical, acknowledging that while it was challenging in the moment, it was also filled with adventure, laughter, and growth.

Now, as they prepare to welcome a third child, those lessons feel more relevant than ever.

Baby Makes Three: The new parents were all smiles with baby Savannah in 2021.

A Powerful Contrast to Port Charles Chaos

For General Hospital fans, the timing of the announcement offers a striking contrast to Chase’s current storyline. On screen, his character is grappling with professional disgrace, moral dilemmas, and emotional fallout. Off screen, Swickard’s life is defined by stability, gratitude, and anticipation.

That duality hasn’t been lost on viewers, many of whom have taken to social media to express their happiness for the actor. The announcement serves as a reminder that while soap operas thrive on conflict and heartbreak, the lives of the actors behind the characters are often filled with very real triumphs.

Looking Ahead to a Full House — and a Full Heart

As 2026 unfolds, Josh Swickard finds himself balancing an intense workload with the responsibilities of an expanding family. Yet if past chapters are any indication, he and Lauren are more than ready.

Their announcement wasn’t just about a baby — it was about growth, resilience, and choosing joy amid life’s unpredictability. It was a celebration of family, partnership, and the belief that the most meaningful roles are often the ones played far from the spotlight.

With a third child on the way, a thriving career, and a home built on love and intention, the Swickards are stepping into their next chapter with open hearts and unwavering optimism.