James Franco Will Return To 'General Hospital'

From stranded hiker to Oscars host to soap star? James Franco will return to General Hospital next year, appearing on the ABC soap in February, right around the time of the 83rd annual Academy Awards.

The actor will reprise his role as Franco, an offbeat artist, in episodes that will air February 25 and 28. Franco began making appearances on the show in 2009, and returned this summer as well.

He will host the Oscars ceremony on February 27 with Anne Hathaway. Franco's role in 127 Hours could also land him an Oscar nomination in the Best Actor category. -—ISHITA SINGH