General Hospital
General Hospital Celebrates its 61st Anniversary
Today on April 1st, marks the 61st anniversary of the juggernaut television series, General Hospital. Now in its sixth decade of drama, the series continues to break milestones.
Having premiered on this day back in 1962, the soap opera went up against another new drama, The Doctors. That show lasted 19 years on NBC, while GH survived and has served up memorable supercouples, social issues of our time, complex and interwoven interpersonal and familial relationships of the lives of the people in the town of Port Charles.
When the series debuted back in 1963, it featured legacy stars, the late John Beradino and Emily McLaughlin, as Dr. Steve Hardy and Nurse Jessie Brewer. Back in 2015, Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth) portrayed the character of Jessie in a flashback for the show’s 52nd anniversary.
Photo: JPI
While GH found itself on life-support before iconic executive producer, Gloria Monty flipped the switch in 1978, it eventually became a massive ratings winner culminating with the 1981 wedding of Luke (Tony Geary) and Laura (Genie Francis).
In the early 90s under EP Wendy Riche, topical stories such as the HIV/AIDS crisis, the Nurses’ Ball and BJ’s heart transplant storyline became synonymous within the history of the soap.
Photo: ABC
As General Hospital firmly moves into its sixth decade, fans have Jason (Steve Burton) back on their screens, Sonny (Maurice Benard) in a precarious situation with his mental health, new alliances and betrayals, and love stories featuring many fan favorites being served up to keep them coming back for more of their favorite soap.
Photo: ABC
Heading into its 61st season, Frank Valentini remains the executive producer, while Patrick Mulcahey and Elizabeth Korte are the series head writers.
Share your congratulations to General Hospital on its anniversary, and let us know what story first got you hooked to the ABC daytime drama series via the comment section below.
I watched the premiere of General Hospital on April 1, 1963. I was young at the time. I was immediately hooked by Jessie Brewer RN, Dr Steve Hardy and Lucille March RN and remained a regular viewer until 2005. Happy anniversary GH.
What happened in 2005? Do you watch one of the other 3 soaps? Just always curious about the “non viewers” that always post.
Myself, watching since 1978 thanks to the Betamax.
I started watching in summerof1970. In 75 went to Days of our life until 94. I retired in Jan 2016 and been hooked on GH ever since I love all the characters except Nina.(yuck)
OMG, love “the non viewers that always post” So true, they’ve always got to get their 2cents in, right?
Thanks Violet. By their own admission… it would appear to be 19 years since last tuning in. I would suggest they come back and see what’s been happening. GH is doing well in my opinion… and good, bad or good enough.. I appreciate that it has been with many viewers since the start, and happy they have stuck with it…
You spoken words of truth about non-viewers. It happens to all the soaps. I’m a non-viewer but I don’t go to sites “rip” soaps by reading spoilers because in today’s climate and rise of social media it’s a cesspool of haters and non-viewers opinions. I’m respectful because every person has their favorites. I grew up in CBS household and I’m 63 still am a viewer except BB isn’t must see for me. I so agree with what was stated.
Llanviewer717, your GH history is similar to mine. Yet I started watching a few years later (in 1969). I, too, liked Steve, Jessie, Lucille, as well Audrey and especially Diana and Peter.
I also quit watching in 2005, largely because I had had enough of Sonny, Carly and the Mob — never dreamed that mess would last this long. I only return for special episodes. But I will always think fondly of those early years…
In response to GH fan and Jamesj75: I loved GH from day 1. I got my grandmother hooked (she hated television) on the Jessie and Phil story and then Steve and Audrey. During the school year, she watched and kept me updated. After she died, I watched when I could and kept up with the soap magazines. I also got hooked on the very first day of One Life to Live and stayed with them until the last episode from Prospect Park. As you can see, I’m very loyal. I watched All My Children off and on.
I stopped watching GH in 2005 because by then it had become Mob Hospital. With all due respect to the talents and hard work of Maurice Benard, Sarah Joy Brown, Tamara Braun (whom I loved), Jennifer Bransford (who, IMHO, wasn’t given a fair chance) Laura Wright (who does a bang up job), and Steve Burton, I just couldn’t take it anymore. All shows grow and evolve. But, GH changed so much that it is unrecognizable and no longer of interest to me.
Like you Jamesj75, I stop by for special episodes – when Nora Buchanan or Blair Cramer came to town. The Bobbie Spencer memorial episodes were absolutely excellent.
Thanks for sharing. I too watched OLTL from 1978 til the very end. I do wish ABC could do something more with OLTL.
I loved OLTL but so many years have passed since its end. And, unfortunately, the actors who played Asa, Rene, Clint (both actors), Antonio, Tina, have passed. I’m not sure it could ever recapture what it once was….
With Vickie, her children and grandchildren, and Dorian and the Kramer girls.. I am certain ABC would be off to a good start. No reason real life and time couldn’t be accounted for, much the same was as life has happened to us viewers. I loved watching OLTL and GH with my mom who passed in 2009, and there are moments in GH, such a Jaclyn Zemans memorial episodes…I could almost see my mother out the corner of my eye, sitting there, watching it with me
Nothing like warm memories and things that evoke them; certain scents, sounds, holiday and yes, soaps or other shared experiences. But; dunno. I literally hated the attempted online version of OLTL after its’demise, even with some of the ABC OLTL characters coming aboard. They had already changed the show so much. And now? I guess if they could bring it back to network TV it could be an interesting attempt and I’d definitely tune in, but I have to admit I just can’t see it working; more than half the cast would be new characters, and thus it’s not the same show. It’s kind of how I feel about GH now; the vets are hanging on by a thread and more and more new characters, many non-related to the legacy families, are being introduced. That’s a departure from what has typically been the soap genre; core multi-generational families…
Without the aforementioned characters (and the actors who played them): Clint, Asa, Rene, Tina, Antonio…basically all the Buchanans gone but for Bo, even the best villain on the show (in my opinion) Mitch Lawrence played by Rosco Born (sp?) passed in real life, it would just be a different show…
Sigh. Nothing stays the same.
You are correct “nothing stays the same” … but I still read a recluctiance to understand life happens everywhere and time passes.
OLTL did represent many diverse ethnic families.. and hopefully your request for this could happen in a new version of OLTL v3.
I actually only started watching GH in 2008/9/10? after both Guiding Light and As The World Turns ended for I was a loyal CBS soap fan, but many of my favorite actors made their way over to GH. I appreciate the storytelling so that I am kept in the loop of the long standing history of characters, family ties, and storylines. I very much hope that GH goes further than 62 years. Nothing can replace Daytime Soaps (even though I DVR all of them and watch sporadically throughout the week).
Been watching since day 1 !! After school! Than when VHS came about i recorded it everyday!!
Congratulations GH !!!
I loved GH in the 1970s and 1990s best.
You know if their is negativity it’s not because no one cares I think older viewer s just are disappointed they does not make anyone cruel I am in my 50 ‘s and yes I want my show back if that makes me a ass then bring it on .
Congrats to GH on 61 years, here’s to many more years!!
Been watching since 1993. I was home from school sick, I had a crush on Jonathan Jackson who played Lucky (I was 13 at the time), so I decided to tune in one day. The Luke and Laura return storyline was just beginning. It was the episode that had the fire at the Triple L diner, and the rest is history, been hooked ever since. Haven’t missed a show in 31 years. Used to record it on my VCR every day, now I watch on Hulu, how times have changed, lol.
I hope GH is on for many more years to come. Contrary to some people that post on soap websites and social media that need to get a life, that seemingly get their jollies from wishing and hoping to see the show get canceled, as long as there is a General Hospital on the air, I’ll always be watching!
I became a fan in the ‘80s during the “Luke and Laura” era. I also applaud the soap for addressing relevant life issues such as HIV/AIDS and, more recently, same sex relationships.
I drifted away from the soap but was reeled back in eventually——mainly because of my crush on Steve Burton who plays Jason Morgan.
I love all of them so exciting to watch every day keep up the amazing work
I’ve watched GH off and on since the Luke and Laura era. My favorite characters were Lucky, Liz, Nicholas and Emily. I also love the era and cast from 2005 through 2010. The sweeps crisis episodes were all so good, especially the Metro Court hostage crisis, epidemic crisis and the black and white ball. I do miss the medical cast featured during that era.
And as odd as this may seem, I miss the GH opening theme song and montage video featuring the cast in the opening credits. I don’t watch other soaps but I did recently see Y&R still uses the shows traditional opening theme song (with beautiful cast photos) and so does Days. I wish GH would bring back a revised version of the original theme song.
I started watching GH during the spring of ‘78. .Leslie was taking the blame for killing David Hamilton to protect Laura.Been hooked ever since!
Is anyone old enough to remember Howie Dawson and his wife? Oh, the troubles this man got in to.
I most certainly do remember Howie and his long suffering wife, Jane. He put that poor woman through hell with his constant lies and infidelity. Howie and Jane were very entertaining and went on for several years. Oh the good old days.
Sadly, Ray Girardin died in 2019. As far as I can find, Shelby Hiatt is still among the living.
GH has always been the comfort we need at the end of a long day. My escape into the town of Port Charles has been a constant since I was 10 years old. Now, 30 years later, I feel so grateful that it is still on the air, entertaining a loyal fan base decade after decade. Congrats to GH!
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Kristina is Rocked By Sonny’s Behavior, Finn Teeters on the Edge as Gregory’s Condition Worsens
Monday’s May 20th episode of General Hospital brought with it emotional moments featuring excellent performances by Kate Mansi (Kristina), Maurice Benard (Sonny) and Michael Easton (Finn).
In the pick of Friday’s cliffhanger, Sonny goes postal on Dex (Evan Hofer) and Jason (Steve Burton), until he sees that Kristina heard and saw the whole thing. She runs into the bathroom, while Sonny goes after her.
Sonny is begging Kristina to let him explain. He goes on to say how Dex and Jason both turned on him, and to please not be afraid of him. But, all Kristina can do is cry as she begs Sonny not to touch her, and with that, he walks out.
Courtesy/ABC
Alone and frightened, and trying to calm herself down, Kristina phones Blaze (Jacqueline Grace Lopez) and tells her to come to the bathroom. Kristina is worried about her unborn baby, and cannot believe her father’s behavior. It’s at that point, Kristina voices she feels like a fool because everyone was warning her about her father. She thought he had a code of ethics, but the man she saw threaten to kill Dex and Jason is nothing like that, leaving her bewildered and stunned.
Jason calls Carly (Laura Wright) and she comes running to the Metro Court to find Sonny, while Jason follows her, but remains sight unseen. Carly finds Sonny at the pool area. Sonny says he thinks no one loves him anymore. Carly says Kristina just needs some time. Carly tells Sonny to not act like that again, but Sonny says he can’t promise that.
Courtesy/ABC
Following Brook Lynn (Amanda Setton) and Chase’s (Josh Swickard) wedding, Gregory, Finn and Violet (Jophielle Love) come home. When Violet goes to bed, it leaves father and son to have some very heavy moments given Gregory’s battle with ALS. Finn tells his dad that he appreciates the time they have together now after years of being apart. Gregory tells Finn he is proud of him, which brings the good doctor to tears.
After Finn helps Gregory get ready for bed, he leaves and calls Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn). Finn admits he threw away 7 years of sobriety by somehow taking a sip of champagne at the wedding reception. Alexis wonders if subconsciously he wanted the drink but says that doesn’t mean he failed.
Courtesy/ABC
At the end of episode, Gregory is in bed, and has flashes of his own life from a child till now, and of his children, Finn and Chase. He finally closes his eyes. Will Gregory not wake up sending Finn on a complete downward spiral? Stay tuned!
So, what did you think of the performances of Kate Mansi, Maurice Benard and Michael Easton? What do you think will happen next? Share your theories via the comment section below.
General Hospital
General Hospital’s Rena Sofer Remarries Sanford Bookstaver
Congratulations are in order for Rena Sofer (Lois Cerullo, General Hospital) and her longtime love, TV director and producer, Sanford Bookstaver. The couple re-tied the knot over this past weekend in a wedding ceremony.
In a post on her Instagram, Sofer shared the details, expressing, “This weekend on what would have been our 21st wedding anniversary I got to Re-Marry my best friend Sanford Booksaver once again!”
The GH star and Daytime Emmy-winner added,”The journey we are about to begin is the most exciting adventure, in a new state and town, but most thrilling is that we get to do it together as husband and wife!”
Photo: SBookStaverIG
Alluding to their time apart, Rena noted, “The three years we spent apart were humbling and heartbreaking but vital to us finding each other again. The love I have for you now is the foundation of my life. I can’t imagine another moment NOT walking through life with you hand in hand and our hearts entwined. You are the love of my life, and it’s not ‘oops we did it again, but I’m so grateful we did it again!❤️❤️❤️”
Previously, Sofer was married to GH and Days star, Wally Kurth (Ned and Justin, respectively) from 1995-1997, and the two share a daughter together, Rosabel Rosalind Kurth. Rena and Sanford were previously married from 2005 to 2017 and share a daughter together, Avalon Leone.
Share your well-wishes to Rena and Sanford as they embark on the next chapter of their lives together as a married couple via the comment section below.
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General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Alexis , Finn, and Kristina Face Life-Altering Moments
This week on ABC’s General Hospital could bring a shift in the lives of several lives in Port Charles. In the latest promo for the daytime drama series, Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn) is seen in court facing her accuser, the brother of her former lover, the late Neil Byrne, in the form of Lane Davies as Fergus Byrne.
Will Alexis finally be reinstated as a lawyer? Will Fergus and Alexis actually hit it off since Lane and Nancy Lee Grahn played the beloved Mason and Julia Capwell on Santa Barbara, and Davies was previously on GH as Dr. Cameron Lewis?
Meanwhile, a pregnant Kristina (Kate Mansi) is reeling after seeing her father, Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) lose his grip and threatening to kill Jason (Steve Burton) and Dex (Evan Hofer). Will her unborn baby be in danger?
Photo: ABC
Finally, Finn’s (Michael Easton) sobriety is really tested and it all seems to be inadvertently caused by the Cerullos. First, at the wedding reception of Brook Lynn and Chase, Carmine hands Finn a glass of champagne after his daughter Violet’s performance. Not paying attention, he takes a sip of champagne during a toast.
Photo: ABC
Now, Carmine and Gloria send a bottle of bourbon to Finn with their “warmest regards.” However, Finn can’t stop himself from pouring himself a drink. Will Finn finally give in, and we are off to the races with another addiction storyline for the good doctor? Stay tuned.
Check out the latest GH preview below.
Now, let us know. What do you think will happen with Finn, Alexis and Kristina on this week’s GH? Share your theories in the comment section.
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Kristina is Rocked By Sonny’s Behavior, Finn Teeters on the Edge as Gregory’s Condition Worsens
‘Tracker’ Season Finale Scores 7.4 Million Viewers, Making It Most-Watched Sunday Night Broadcast Show
General Hospital’s Rena Sofer Remarries Sanford Bookstaver
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Alexis , Finn, and Kristina Face Life-Altering Moments
AMERICAN IDOL: Abi Carter Crowned the Winner, Katy Perry Sheds Tears In Her Final Episode
General Hospital’s Maurice Benard Defends Sonny Going Postal, “It Could Definitely Happen”
Michael Easton Shares on the Loss of Kamar de los Reyes, “I Was Holding His Hand When He Passed”
Giovanni Mazza On Contract at General Hospital: What Are Your First Impressions?
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Alexis , Finn, and Kristina Face Life-Altering Moments
Patrick Mulcahey OUT as General Hospital Co-Head Writer
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Alexis , Finn, and Kristina Face Life-Altering Moments
AMERICAN IDOL: Abi Carter Crowned the Winner, Katy Perry Sheds Tears In Her Final Episode
Michael Easton Shares on the Loss of Kamar de los Reyes, “I Was Holding His Hand When He Passed”
Kim Zimmer Reveals Breast Cancer Diagnosis
The Young and the Restless Eileen Davidson to Chat Live on Ashley’s Alters Storyline
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General HospitalMay 19, 2024General Hospital’s Maurice Benard Defends Sonny Going Postal, “It Could Definitely Happen”
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General HospitalMay 18, 2024Michael Easton Shares on the Loss of Kamar de los Reyes, “I Was Holding His Hand When He Passed”
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General HospitalMay 18, 2024Giovanni Mazza On Contract at General Hospital: What Are Your First Impressions?
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General HospitalMay 11, 2024GH’s Adam J. Harrington Reveals the Behind the Scenes Story of Becoming John “Jagger” Cates
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General HospitalMay 20, 2024GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Alexis , Finn, and Kristina Face Life-Altering Moments
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General HospitalMay 13, 2024GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: What Shocker Awaits at Chase and Brook Lynn’s Wedding?