<P> Not attaching Nathan to a specific love interest immediately allows for the writers to slowly integrate him into the canvas . Soaps In Depth reported that Nathan 's is n't just some `` run - of - the - mill '' cop , but `` He 's on a mission to stir things up for a few people ! '' It is soon revealed that Nathan is in town investigating his estranged brother - in - law Silas Clay ( Michael Easton ) in the attempted murder of his comatose sister Nina . However , Silas 's former mistress Ava Jerome ( Maura West ) is also at the top of the suspect list . In 2014 , legendary actress Donna Mills , known for her portrayal of Abby Cunningham on the prime time soap , Knots Landing was cast in the role of Madeline Reeves -- Nathan 's mother . It is revealed that Madeline raised Nathan to believe Silas was guilty and he is working on her behalf to lock Silas up for Nina 's condition . Despite acting to avenge his sister , Nathan tolerates Madeline 's disdain for his career choice because she thinks it is `` below them . '' Nathan partners up with Silas and his girlfriend Sam McCall ( Kelly Monaco ) to set a trap for Ava believing she is guilty . However , the sting operation does n't go as planned when Madeline is revealed to be the culprit -- and Nathan is forced to arrest her . </P>
who plays nathan 's mother on general hospital
Donna Mills