In 2004, Francis appeared in "Teacher's Pet" and "Thunderbirds". In June 2006, she began negotiating with the casting directors on the show to return to the role of Laura Spencer for a limited run through November. Francis returned with spectacular fanfare to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Luke and Laura's wedding. Though she reprised the role for only one month, Francis' stint garnered her a Daytime Emmy Nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, which she won in June 2007. Francis returned to "General Hospital" in August 2008 to reprise her role, appearing until November 12. In December 2007, she had a starring role in the Hallmark Channel movie, "The Note", which earned her critical acclaim. On January 31, 2009, Francis reprised her role of Peyton MacGruder in the Hallmark Channel movie, "Taking a Chance on Love". In 2012, she again reprised her role as Peyton MacGruder in the Hallmark Channel movie "Notes from the Heart Healer".