General Hospital
ABC Issues Statement On The Passing Of Claire Labine
Courtesy/Alchestron
Over the weekend, the daytime community continued to mourn the passing of nine-time Daytime Emmy winner, Claire Labine (pictured far right, next to Kate Mulgrew (Ex-Mary, Ryan’s Hope).
This imaginative storyteller passed away at the age of 82. She leaves behind a list of some of the most touching stories in the history of soaps that audiences who love the genre will never forget. Most of Labine’s success in her career was with the ABC Television Network where she co-created Ryan’s Hope, wrote many of General Hospital’s most revered storylines, and more.
Now ABC has issued a statement on the passing of Claire Labine, and what she meant to the network’s success during the highpoint of its ABC daytime block of shows and more.
ABC: “We are sad to learn of the death of our friend and former colleague Claire Labine. As creator of Ryan’s Hope and head writer of both General Hospital and One Life to Live in the 90s, Claire was an imaginative storyteller who inspired hope and sparked conversations through her stories and characters paving the way for a new generation of writers who would follow in her footsteps. We are proud and honored she was a part of our ABC Daytime family. We send our deepest condolences to her family and those closest to her.”
Share your continued thoughts and condolences on Labine’s passing in the comment section. But first after the jump. watch the opening and closing credits of the premiere episode of Ryan’s Hope from 1975, Bobbie learning B.J. is brain dead from GH, as well as Alan telling Robin she is HIV positive, all part of the iconic stories from Labine.
One of the true greats of the soap genre. Her “Ryan’s Hope” was literate, witty and filled with dimensional, compelling characters. Then, later she saved GH and made it better than it had ever been (wish she was still here so she could do it again). She tried to fix OLTL in the 90s and GL in 2000, but was consistently undermined by the network know-nothings that were in charge. The soap industry needs more Claire Labines, writers with the same class, talent, integrity and heart (much like the late Agnes Nixon, another brilliant, irreplaceable gem). RIP.
OH so very sad–she was an amazing head writer and instilled a sense of realism into her stories.
This is the worst November of all time-Leonard Cohen, Leon Russell and Claire Labine have all died.
Ohhhhh…so sad and surprised at the passing of Leonard Cohen. Wish I’d had the opportunity to see him in concert. Hallelujah…
If there were more like Labine writing for daytime, maybe there would be more than 4 soaps still on the air. If anyone has not seen her work, I refer you to the following–(1) scene from RH between the show matriarch, Maeve Ryan, and show villainess, Rae Woodard, including in the 1981 Daytime emmy clips on youtube, (2) “Ryan’s Hope’s” last episode where Maeve sang ‘Danny Boy’ and everyone, in front of and behind the camera were in genuine tears. (3) From her ‘GH” days–Mary Mae Ward reciting a prayer (Grace Realized) to AIDS patient Stone and his girlfriend, Robin. Also, I vividly and fondly ALL the St. Patrick Day episodes on “RH.”
Claire was my cousin and that’s how I knew her. None of her success or fame was ever shown when we were with her. Rather an incredibly warm, considerate and funny human being who was as interested in our lives as though we were as important. She will be remembered!
I am very sorry to hear of the passing of your cousin, Steve. I know she is resting in peace.
You and your family must be very proud. Sorry for your loss…
So sad that such an iconic writer is gone. She added so much to the soap landscape with her memorable storylines.
One of the great story tellers and Ryan’s Hope was the first soap opera I got hooked on. It was great reliving Ryan’s Hope when SoapNet network was on the air. Rest in Peace and prayers to her family and friends.
It’s good to see that ABC acknowledged her. The Stone and Robin sl is still relevant and cutting edge today. It surprises me too. I would’ve loved to see similar statements made for head writers Norma Monty and Ann Marcus, two 80s writers that helped keep GH great. I suppose this is what we call progress for the network?
The photo used above comes from my interview with Claire Labine and Kate Mulgrew from 2011 which can be found here https://www.totallykate.com/labine/interview.html
TotallyKate.com webmaster
Claire wrote my absolute favorite era of “GH.” What a talent! Rest in peace, dear lady.
Mine too-Sonny, Brenda, Ned, Lois, Stone, The Q’s-all of my favorites, too!
The stories that Claire Labine wrote for GH in the 90’s are the stories that got me hooked on the show. Robin/Stone’s story along with Ned/Lois and Sonny/Brenda are still the gold standard for me of GH storytelling. Those stories will forever be in my heart. Rest in peace Claire, you gifted the viewers with tales that will last a lifetime.
What can I say? I am at a loss for words. This lady came up with some of the best stories in our history of soaps. Well miss you, Claire.
I am curious as to which new generation of writers who have followed in her footsteps they are referring to??
THANK YOU Miss Claire. RIP.
Claire Labine is one of my all time role models. She inspired me to focus on writing and she helped me become a better, more empathetic person through the stories she wrote. I was just a 15 year old boy when she captivated me as she began her tenure at GH. Through Ned and Lois’s romance (still my all time favorite pairing), Monica’s breast cancer, Stone and Robin’s story, the infamous Lucy/Damian “bet” – but most especially through BJ’s heart – Claire created GH’s true golden era. The BJ story remains the best story ever portrayed on daytime television in my opinion. I am so grateful for Claire’s storytelling. May she rest in peace.
Ms. Labine was truly one of the best. Ryan’s hope was a gem in a class by itself; Claire left her stamp with her inimitable writing/story telling style and creativity with quality par excellence in any project she wrote for or collborated on. Her story telling for General Hospital was soap at its best. She is irreplaceable and will be sorely missed. My condolences to her family including those of us in her soap family.
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
This week on all-new episodes of General Hospital, new and old motivations come into play with dangerous consequences. According to the just released GH video spoilers video for the week of August 3-7, a bailiff calls out, “All rise!”
Now it’s Isaiah (Sawandi Wilson) vs. Curtis (Donnell Turner), as the surgeon is suing the owner of the Savoy for assault that ruined is ability to operate. At the end of the day, which of these men has enough evidence against the other? Portia (Brook Kerr) is by Isaiah’s side, while Jordan (Tanisha Harper) is with Curtis.
Next, Lucy (Lynn Herring) has a plan to get the controlling shares of Deception away from Michael (Rory Gibson). She wants her daughter, Serena (Kelly Kruger) to seduce Michael. She tells her, “Pick out your most seductive suit.” Soon, we see Serena in her bathing suit at the Metro Court face to face with Michael.
Later, there is a small baggie containing three blue pills. Nina (Cynthia Watros) ask Willow (Katelyn MacMullen), “What did you do?” We also see Michael asking the same thing of Jacinda (Paige Herschell). Leading into this week, viewers know that Willow doesn’t want the former escort anywhere near her children, Amelia and Wiley. Is this how she stops her, or is Jacinda up to old tricks and wants to frame Willow? Remember when Jacindsa drugged Drew (Cameron Mathison)? Stay tuned.
Finally, in the pick-up from last Friday’s cliffhanger, an emotional Jason (Steve Burton) continues to tell Sonny (Maurice Benard) that he cannot work for him anymore. Sonny ask, “So that’s it? You’re Out?” We fade to black.
Take a look at the official GH spoilers for the week below.
MONDAY, AUGUST 3
Jason makes a sacrifice for Danny. Elizabeth becomes privy to a secret. Carly is touched. Valentin has a warning for Nina. Josslyn cautions Brennan.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4
Brook Lynn and Chase celebrate a milestone. Trina gets an earful. Carly’s plan backfires. Curtis is skeptical. Michael is anxious about his family’s’ future.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5
Sonny wants answers. Ava is struck with inspiration. Curtis’ trial begins. Brook Lynn wrestles with a big decision. Lucy and Serena scheme.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 6
Sonny makes a stunning announcement. Serena makes her move. Willow faces a new threat. Isaiah takes the stand. Lucy questions Laura.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
Josslyn is taken aback. Ava courts a new ally. Jordan and Anna catch up. Isaiah vents to Lucas and Elizabeth. Michael questions Jacinda.
Check out the latest ABC promo for General Hospital entitled, “What Did You Do?” below.
Now weigh-in: Do you think GH is about to pair Serena with Michael? Is it curtains for Jacinda? Can anyone stop Willow once and for all, or make her pay for her crimes? What will Jason do without Sonny and the mob? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
General Hospital Fan Club Weekend brought out many of your favorites to the four day event; with the main cast gathering on Saturday, August 1. Fans near and far attended the weekend held this year at the Burbank Marriott Hotel. Whether it be the main cast event or the smaller more intimate events featuring two or three cast members a great time was had by all.
Some of the cast participating in the main cast event included: Cyrus Hobbi (Yuri), Gary James Fuller (James), Bradford Anderson (Spinelli), Viron Weaver (Wiley), Paige Herschell (Jacinda), Chris McKenna (Brennan), Josh Kelly (Cody), Kayden Brenna Tokarsi (Scout), Cassandra James (Terry), Laura Wright (Carly), Dominic Zamprogna (Dante), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane), Rick Hearst (Ric), Adrian Anchondo (ex-Marco), and Chloe Lanier (ex-Nelle).
In addition to, Van Hansis (Lucas), Cameron Mathison (Drew), Ryan Paevey (ex-Cassius), Easton Rocket Sweda (Leo), Maurice Benard (Sonny), Kristen Vaganos (Molly), Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis), Kate Mansi (ex-Kristina), Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth), Cynthia Watros (Nina), Kristina Wagner (Felicia) and more.
Take a look at some of the snaps from the main event arrivals below:
Photo: HutchinsPhoroi
GH’s Rick Hearst with on-screen daughter, Kristen Vaganos, plus Nancy Lee Grahn, and Kate Mansi.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
GH’s Maurice Benard on-hand to meet the fans.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto.com
Jack Brennan in the house … Chris McKenna.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Adrian Anchondo, Van Hansis and Anchondo’s boyfriend, Days of Our Lives, Colton Little.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
GH’s Josh Kelly and his gal, the former Nelle Benson of Port Charles, Chloe Lanier.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Who is James’ father? Not Cassius or Spinelli, actually. Actors Gary James Fuller, Ryan Paevey and Bradford Anderson!
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
One of General Hospital’s newest cast members, Kayden Brenna Tokarski attends her first GHFCW event.
Check out some more arrival images featuring: Laura Wright (Carly), Cassandra James (Terry), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane) and more in the gallery below.
Michael Fairman TV will be adding more images to this post in the day ahead.
So, were you glad to see so many of your GH favorites attending this year’s General Hospital Fan Club Weekend? Let us know via the comment section.
General Hospital
Vincent Pastore of ‘Sopranos’ Fame and ‘General Hospital’s’ Maximus Giambetti Dies at 80
Vincent Pastore, best known for his memorable role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s The Sopranos has passed away.
The veteran actor was found dead on August 1st in his home in the Bronx, New York. Pastore was 80-years-old. The cause of death is yet to be determined.
As well as his role on The Sopranos, many soap fans will recall he played multiple smaller roles on the beloved One Life to Live from 1995 and 2004. However, in 2008, he landed the short-term role as Maximus Giambetti on General Hospital.
PASTORE WANTED TO BE ON GENERAL HOSPITAL
Maximus was the mobster father of Sonny Corinthos’ (Maurice Benard) bodyguards: Max (Derk Cheetwood) and Milo (Drew Cheetwood)
According to Soap Opera Digest, Pastore told Soaps In Depth back in 2009, after appearing in a SOAPnet promotional campaign as a celebrity fan of General Hospital: “‘I’d love to be on the show. So they called up GH’s casting director (Mark Teschner) and Bobby (Robert Guza Jr. ex-head writer, GH) and they wrote me in!”
Pastore was a huge General Hospital fan from way back, who at one point told producers that he would watch the ABC soap opera while working in bars and nightclubs in the 70s and 80s.
Throughout his decades long career, Pastore appeared in films including: Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way and Men of Respect, The Jerky Boys: The Movie and the 1996 HBO TV movie Gotti.
In TV, besides The Sopranos, Pastore’s credits included: Law & Order, The Practice, Son of the Beach, Queens Supreme, Hawaii Five-0, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, plus the miniseries The Last Don II. Most recently, Vincent was a series regular on Gravesend and guest starred on Yellowjackets.
Pastore is survived by his daughter, Renee, son-in-law and granddaughter.
Share your remembrances and condolences for Vincent Pastore on his memorable role on ‘The Sopranos’ and his time on ‘General Hospital’ via the comment section below.
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