the role of kate howard was originated by actress megan ward in may 2007. ward remained on contract with the series until 2009, when she and actor rick hearst were dropped to a recurring status. ward continued to make appearances as kate, until she vacated the role in 2010; her final appearance as kate was on october 20, 2010. in summer 2011, it was rumored that then-new headwriter garin wolf was looking to recast the character. in july 2011, it was confirmed that actress kelly sullivan had been cast as the re-cast of the role. sullivan debuted in the role on september 12, 2011.