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General Hospital to Mark 62nd Anniversary with Triple Celebration Episode Featuring Genie Francis and Dedication of ‘Dr. Monica Quartermaine Cardiac Wing”

By Michael Fairman

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Photo: ABC

Next week, General Hospital continues to be the longest-running television show on the air when it marks its 62nd anniversary. The series premiered back on April 1, 1963.

Tuesday’s April 1st episode will serve as triple celebration as the ABC daytime drama series not only as acknowledges its 62nd year, but it will also pay tribute to the contributions of its long-running stars, Genie Francis (Laura Spencer Collins) and the late Leslie Charleson (Monica Quartermaine).

According to the current issue of TV Guide Magazine, Laura will officially open GH’s new ‘Dr. Monica Quartermaine Cardiac Wing.’ Commenting on the moment, Francis shared, “I take great pride in giving the speeches because there’s a lot of truth in them and how I feel about this place and how I feel about the people in.”

Photo: ABC

Genie also expressed that she appreciates when the spotlight can be turned on her in the most flattering of ways, “It’s always nice when they acknowledge the fact that I’m sort of an antique her. I’m historical. I like the feeling of that.”

As noted in the TVG article, this anniversary episode was written before Leslie Charleson’s passing on January 12th, with the hopes that she would be well enough to appear in the dedication. However, the team pivoted and is now planning a memorial for Monica that will air at a later date. (No word yet on when that will be).

Photo: ABC

Sharing a remembrance of her late co-star, Genie said of Leslie Charleson, she was, “always so kind to me. Most of us have come and gone, me included. Even Tony (Geary) came and went. But Leslie was there non-stop. She was a real pillar of this show and of that hospital, which is a lovely thing. I’m glad they did this in her honor. I think it’s beautiful.”

Are you looking forward to GH’s 62nd anniversary episode? Glad they are spotlighting Genie Francis and honoring Leslie Charleson, by opening the ‘Dr. Monica Quartermaine Cardiac Wing’ in the story? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.

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Yes I’m glad they are spotlighting Genie Francis and honoring Leslie Charleson I’ve been watching from the beginning.

I have been watching GH since 1969 and I still love it; great actors and actresses. Will Robin Scorpio and Leslie be there ?

Why are they taking so long to announce Monica’s death?

I. Agree!!

Wondered the same thing. Also, why didn’t they have a funeral for Dex on the show?? Weird!!
Both characters need one!!!

Dex was a minor character. He had no family in PC. As a cop, they’d have to break the budget to hire a bunch of extras for the service funeral.

Because she is an Icon. And it takes time to remember her properly

They are probably going to use it in a Storyline, like Drew caused her Death by tearing down the Quartermaine Crypt.

Yeah I said that too

The show is written about 3-4 months ahead. Storylines can be adjusted, but the death of a longtime character with connections to a legacy family takes much care and coordination. Former cast members might be asked back and require schedule coordination.

Episodes were recorded far in advance before Leslie’s passing. That is the reason why her passing hasn’t even been mentioned yet.

The scripts can be written months ahead …. but GH doesn’t tape that far in advance. Thays why they are able to change plans. Days of Our Lives is the only soap that films months and months ahead.

A combination of the 3-4 month lead time in taping and the scheduling and budgetary logistics involved with assembling a large group of current (and likely past) cast members in this century. They did it right for Bobbie/Jackie, let them take the time necessary to do the same for Monica/Leslie.

Love this both deserve to be honored

This’ll be good, hopefully.

Well deserved.RIP Leslie. You are greatly missed

So glad that they are honoring Leslie.
Miss her being on the show. She was a great actress.

I started watching General Hospital in 1979 when I was a teenager. I have always enjoyed the show and the storylines was so sad to hear of Leslie Charleston’s passing. I’m happy they are honoring her for her contribution to the show.

Yesssssza

It’s about time I have been watching GH for 57 years I was wondering when they were going to pay Tribute to Leslie Charleson She was the Matriarch since since 1977. I was so sadden of Leslie Charleson passing I.will GREATLY Miss her on GH.
THANK YOU For PAYING TRIBUTE TO LESLIE Charleson❤️

I knew that GH was taped about 6 weeks ahead of the air date, but I had no idea that the show was written several months in advance.

This would have been a good time to have Monica pass away on the show, so they could dedicate the cardiac wing to her memory. But I understand this episode was written before Leslie passed. They will have to address that down the road, and hopefully soon.

Either way, it’s very nice of them to honor their history by recognizing Leslie/Monica, and also having Genie Francis front and center, where she should be. I have my issues with the way Frank runs this show, but one thing I will give him credit for, as a whole they’ve done a pretty good job honoring the show’s rich history during his tenure, in my view.

I just turned 70…and I have ALWAYS WATCHED GH!!

I have watched GH since the first day. I miss all those who have passed on. It will be wonderful to see this episode highlighting Genie Francis and honoring Leslie. It should have been done long ago, but am happy Frank Valentino decided to honor Leslie now. I’m not happy the way the the show has handled firing and hiring the actors, but Frank does well to honor the beloved.

I haved been watching General Hospital since I could remember I sorry of passing Dr Monica Qaurtermen Monica is an excellent actress she is missed.

I’m so glad they’re honoring Leslie Charleston and the character she portrayed!! She was a beautiful person and a wonderful actor ❤️ RIP Leslie

Great show

I Love GH. Can not wait to see it

I’ve watched GH since the start. I remember Monica as always the power house of the family. Tracy has surpassed that role many times. Laura is just to “goody”. Let’s let Jason do it

So happy they’re finally doing it. She was so great!

Hi! I’m Cindy Parker from South Roxana Illinois and I just want to say that I have been watching GH since it aired the day before my 6th birthday. I was born April 2, 1957 and my mother started watching GH the day it aired from what I understand. Of course I really didn’t catch on at that age, but as I grew U felt that I was a part of GH. I really enjoy the soap and all the crew. I’ve seen all of the ups and downs and laughed and cried with them all and even got my husband watching it. we’ve beenarried 50 yrs and when he retired he started watching it at home with me. Before that he was working and I would have to tape it for him. He took is a big fan. Pleàse keep it going so we can continue to watch a great soap with an àwesome story line. it’s our enjoyment. we love all the characters and story lines.

I to have watched general hospital since day one with my mother and have gotten my husband hooked too I agree to every word you said. Long live G H.

I have watched GH from day one and love all the actors that have been there! Am not fond of the swapping out of the characters!!

General hospital ‘s 62 anniversary.

Long Live General Hospital

I will be 62 years old this year. I have been watching general hospital. I kno when I was 16 or 17 years old. Never missed an episode I would always record. I loved all my children. I loved one life to live well. The only one left now is general hospital and I still love it. And yes, Monica will be very, very missed. I just wish that Tracy would tone down a little bit. Rest in peace. And God bless you for all those wonderful years.

Tracy has toned down A lot! She cracks me up! With all the Q’s antics but she is definitely “softer” now! In the 80s she didn’t care about anything but herself…

I’m so happy they are doing this for Monica. I am 62th years old too
I remember everyone on the show. I’m sad that Monica Qurmen is watching everyone down here on this earth celebrate her and she deserves it too Rest in Peace ❤️

I’m a General Hosital soap opera watcher/ fan since my 1st born daughter was born in February 5. 1964. Still record the show 5 days a week so I don’t miss an episode. What a GREAT RUN this has been sofar. Great actors/actresses, story lines and topics great sets. GREAT EVERYTHING. THANK YOU, for my relaxing hours.

I’m thrilled about the recognition of Genie Francis and his dedication for Leslie Charleston. I’ve been watching for 50 years!

I was born the year G.H began and my mom started watching while she would iron all the clothes for a family of 8! I can remember at the age of 4 watching with her and running home from high school to watch Luke and Laura!
Then when I had my daughter, she watched with me and too ran home from school to see every episode! This time it was Sonny and Carly!
Now she is expecting her daughter in June. The fourth generation in our family of G.H fans and watchers!

I am 74 years old and used to watch GH every day after school with my Mom, who has long since passed. Wel loved Monica and Laura has always been my favorite character. Looking forward to both episodes.

I remember my Mom watching this show when I was a child. I was born in 63. My Mom would do her ironing during the time GH was on, she related to it very well as she was also a nurse. I remember Jessie Brewer, Steve Hardy and Audrey Hardy and The Baldwin’s. A lot of history in General Hospital.

It’s truly amazing and wonderful 62 years GH. Leslie and Genie honor is great idea. Also Jane Eliot has been on a long time too. Big toast to all at GH.

I still remember Laura’s mother, Leslie Webber. So it still gets confusing when Monica is referred to as Leslie.

That’s Awesome we’ll Deserve

I am very glad about the dedication. I have watched General Hospital since the days of Dr. Hardy, Audrey, Jessie and Lucille. The writers never cease to amaze me. Looking forward to the tribute and memorial for Leslie.

I have watched, read and then recorded since Day One in 1963.
Watched with my late Mother and now I share daily thoughts with my Baby Sis who lives in Florida, I live in Pennsylvania.
#GHFOREVER ♥️

Ive also been watching since the beginning. I have always taped and or recorded every episode so I wouldn’t miss anything. Great show!

I been watching general hospital, from the beginning with Jessie, doctor Harvey, Phil bewer,Lucille, and so on. It’s nice to celebrate Monica.

Wish the Anniversary opening sequence included pictures of the many key characters throughout the years! Happy 62 years!

First they have to address her death in GH. (She’s been in that bedroom upstairs forever!) I’m waiting to see how they’re gonna do that. Either way, it’s going to be a tear jerker. Get your hankies ready.

Sadly, I am start to think the storyline with Drew fighting with Tracy and wanting the family crypt torn down because of the property line will somehow tie into Monica’s death.

Im disappointed that they did not recognize her death after one of the episodes. They have done thatvfor almost every cast membervwho died. Then they can write her death into the show when they want.

I think it’s wonderful that they are dedicating the episode to Leslie Charleson and honoring her in that way and spotlighting Genie Francis.

My sister and I have watched General Hospital from the first episode. I was almost 17, and she was a couple of months shy of TWO years old. We were delighted when Genie Francis came back to the show. We miss seeing Leslie Charleson. She reigned the family in when necessary, but she was gentle about it. It will be nice to see her honored in such a special way. This is one episode that won’t be missed!

I too have watched GH for many years…since it was a 1/2 show! And then becme a1 hour show.and I still watch it.

Yes I’ve been watching GH since it was in black and white (1963)!!

So looking for the episode I waited on l was beginning to start high school, I started watching at that time and I have been

I once met genie outside a theatre in Birmingham Michigan was very nice signed a tv guide I have with her pic on cover.

Breaking News

53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards Presenters Announced

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Daytime Emmy Presenters

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) revealed on Thursday, the lineup of presenters for 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards taking place on Friday, October 30, 2026, at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, California.

The ceremony will stream live on the NATAS YouTube channel at YouTube.com/@theemmys and watch.TheEmmys.tv.

Scheduled to present from the current soaps are: Katelyn MacMullen (Willow, General Hospital), Delon de Metz (Zende, The Bold and the Beautiful), James Preston (Nick, The Bay), Paul Telfer (Xander, Days of our Lives), Tamara Tunie (Anita, Beyond the Gates) and Susan Walters (Diane, The Young and the Restless).

Genie Francis

Photo: NATAS

In addition soap alums, Crystal Chappell, Lesli Kay, Joe Lando, Eva LaRue, who is also a nominee this year,  A Martinez, Juliet Mills, and Alicia Leigh Willis, will also be on hand to present.

The ceremony which celebrates nominated lifestyle programs and dramas will also include presenters: Eva zu Beck (Superskilled with Eva zu Beck), Danielle Chang (Lucky Chow), Sunny Hostin (The View), Derek Hough (Extra), Pati Jinich (Pati’s Mexican Table), Star Jones (Divorce Court), Michael Jr. (Stand Up and Do Something), Judge Greg Mathis (Mathis Court with Judge Mathis), Keke Palmer (Glam Through the Ages), Nischelle Turner (Entertainment Tonight), and Andrew Zimmern (Andrew Zimmern’s Wild Game Kitchen).

The 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards will bring together an exciting mix of presenters representing the full spectrum of daytime television,” said Adam Sharp, President & CEO of NATAS. “From familiar faces in daytime drama to the personalities and creative voices behind talk shows and lifestyle programming, this year’s lineup reflects the breadth of talent that makes daytime so special. We look forward to celebrating the people who continue to shape the genre.”

Matthew Hoffman (Love Island USA, Cheap A$$ Beach Houses) will serve as the ceremony’s Voice of God, bringing his signature comedic narration to the evening’s celebrations. As previously announced, Lifetime Achievement honoree Genie Francis (Laura, General Hospital) will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by her husband, Jonathan Frakes.

So, what do you think about the list of presenters for the 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards? Let us know who you are looking forward to seeing via the comment section below.

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General Hospital

Could Kristen Vaganos and Josh Kelly Be Exiting ‘General Hospital?’

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Josh and Kristen

General Hospital fans took to social media following the airing of the Wednesday, October 21 episode of the ABC daytime drama series. In story, Molly (Kristen Vaganos) reveals to Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn) that she has received an offer to join the top law firm in Chicago that practices civil law. She says it’s her dream job.

The problem Molly says is relocating from Port Charles and uprooting her life and being away from her mother, Scout and boyfriend Cody Bell (Josh Kelly). Wistful that she may lose another daughter to a long-distance situation (Kristina left a few months back to go to medical school in California), Alexis urged Molly to get Cody to go with her.

Molly still seemed concerned and has trouble committing to the idea. Alexis tells her to talk it over with Cody. Meanwhile, Cody asked Tracy (Jane Elliot) is he can have Thanksgiving off because he and Molly planned to spend Thanksgiving together with their families. After initially balking, Tracy agrees.

Courtesy/ABC

WILL MOLLY AND CODY HEAD TO CHI-TOWN?

Later, Cody shows up at Miller & Davis and the conversation turned to Thanksgiving dinner that Alexis is hosting. Molly and Cody asked her not to cook anything. Cody hugged Molly reassuring Alexis that he and Molly would take care of whatever was needed on Turkey Day.

So, this raises the question, why out of nowhere are we learning that Molly received an amazing law offer in Chicago, if the character was not being written out? If Molly leaves the canvas, would the character of Cody make his exit too?

Kristen Vaganos joined GH as a recast Molly Lansing-Davis back in September of 2023 and went on contract in August of 2024. Josh Kelly began playing Cody Bell back in June of 2022. Initial reports were that Kelly joined the show on contract and then as of June 2025 went on recurring status with the show per his choice.

Do you see a world where GH is writing out Molly and Cody? Would you be sad to see Kristen and Josh exit the soap opera? If this is not what is going on, is this just a plot point for some other story that is upcoming? Share your thoughts and theories via the comment section.

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General Hospital

Kin Shriner Gives High Praise to ‘General Hospital’ TV Daughter Kelly Kruger

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Kin and kelly

It’s been over two-years since his last appearance on General Hospital, now fan favorite Kin Shriner (Scott Baldwin) has taken to social media to share his thoughts on the casting of his grown-up TV daughter, Serena Baldwin now played by Kelly Kruger.

Kelly took over the role of Serena on-screen starting with the July 30, 2026 episode and has been ensconced in the storyline with her mother, Lucy Coe (Lynn Herring), in trying to win back full creative control of Deception for her.

In fact on the Monday, October 19 episode of the ABC soap opera, Serena tried to dupe Jason Morgan (Steve Burton) into signing over Michael’s (Rory Gibson) shares of the company. Jason caught on and wondered why she was doing this. She claimed she just wanted to help her mom gain creative control from Tracy (Jane Elliot) rather than full ownership, and begged Jason to keep quiet about it, which he agreed to for now.

Serena and Jason

Courtesy/ABC

WHERE IS SCOTT?

On Monday, Shriner also took to X and said, “I think Kelly Kruger is doing a great job on General Hospital, and she and Lynn Herring work well together.” That was followed by comments in his thread about the show needing to bring back Scott too.

In fact, back on August 25, Shriner also took to X with a reminder that Scott is still around and ready to come back to Port Charles, sharing, “Scotty Baldwin always fits in he just needs the right sport coat !!!!”

The last time Serena mentioned her father Scott was when Kruger made her debut and informed Lucy that her father was, “living his best life in Key West.”  Meanwhile, Shriner posts on his X account continually and shared back on August 2, that it has been 49 years since he made his on-screen debut as then teenaged, Scotty Baldwin and thanked the fans for al the love and support.

So, now let us know, are you enjoying Kelly Kruger as Serena Baldwin? Do you want to see GH bring back Scott Baldwin into the story, so Serena has both her parents in Port Charles? Do you like the potential of Jason and Serena pairing? Weigh-in via the comment section below.

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Jonathan Bennett joins the cast of GH as Joe Fitzpatrick. Catch the latest promo! Leave a comment.Leave A Comment

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