General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Brings Returns,Trips Down Memory Lane & A Death To Its 51st Anniversary Episode!
Courtesy/ABC
General Hospital has paid homage to its history and its fans under the creative regime of current executive producer Frank Valentini and head writer Ron Carlivati, in particular when it comes to special episodes, and today during the broadcast of the long running ABC soap opera’s 51st anniversary broadcast that held true!
IF YOU HAVE NOT WATCHED THE EPISODE YET DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER AS THIS POST CONTAINS THE REVIEW OF IT AND SPOILERS.
Starting off the show in black and white and paging the names of the memorable doctors and nurses that graced the halls of the 7th floor nurses station and GH throughout its history, quickly the episode brought us to current day with the still venerable Dr. Monica Quartermaine (Leslie Charleson) who is reeling from the death of her son, AJ Quartermaine (Sean Kanan). As Monica tries to cope, enter the ghost of Emily Quartermaine (Natalia Livingston) who tries to help Monica stay in the land of the living, even though Monica reveals her sorrow at being the only one left in her family since everyone else she has loved has passed on.
Courtesy/ABC
Elsewhere, Carly (Laura Wright) confronts Sonny (Maurice Benard) with the knowledge that she knows that he shot AJ, since AJ told her before he died. Sonny takes Carly to the hospital chapel to try to reason with her to not tell Michael (Chad Duell) that he shot his bio-father, and to remind her of all the terrible things AJ did to them!
And with that and the use of historic clips, viewers get to recount the tumultuous past of Sonny and Carly starting with Carly losing their baby thanks to AJ, but this Carly is the original, Sarah Brown! We relive how their hate turned into sexual tension, turned into a relationship and how they grew to love each other. And in terrific moments played by Maurice Benard and Sarah Brown you felt and knew the depth of these characters feelings. What a treat it was to see these two powerhouse performers together again.
Courtesy/ABC
But the treats did not stop there, next Carly up, Tamara Braun and through the use again of clips, Sonny and the Carly from this time in their lives recount Carly setting up Sonny and their divorce, and how Carly fell apart and suffered a minor nervous breakdown after the “death” of Michael! How great was it to see Maurice and Tamara in scenes together again, too! It was to say the least, a very clever way by GH to incorporate the Carlys from Sonny’s past.
Finally, it’s back to present day Carly (Laura Wright). Sonny says, “We may not be right for each other, but we’re it for each other.” To which Carly replies, “I will always have you’re back, even if our love story is over.” Next, they recall having “grief” sex, but in the end, Sonny begs Carly to not tell Michael or anyone that he shot AJ. And again in those scenes it was beautifully played by Maurice and Laura.
Courtesy/ABC
Elsewhere during the episode, Lucy (Lynn Herring) makes her big decision and in a very touching scene, she tells Scott (Kin Shriner) that she has chosen to stay in her marriage with Kevin (Jon Lindstrom).
Both Lynn Herring and Kin Shriner were very moving as Lucy tries to tell Scott she wants to be his friend and does not want to lose that, but she is going back to her marriage. There is also a nod to “51 years” thanks to a send-up of Governor Chris Christie’s bridge-gate where Felicia (Kristina Wagner) reveals how the Port Charles Bridge was closed down! Bobbie (Jackie Zeman) also appears in the episode, and we find out that Noah Drake has chosen to be with none other than Annie Logan, and not her!
Courtesy/ABC
At the of the episode came the big hankie moment for us when AJ, now passing on through the living to death tells Monica, “Mom, thank you” to which Monica says, “Goodbye, my sweet boy.” This moment was heartfelt and played to perfection by Sean Kanan and Leslie Charleson, who were stellar throughout their scenes.
As the episode comes to its conclusion, AJ is greeted by the likenesses of Lila, Edward, and his father, Alan. Now being led by Emily, AJ walks up the GH staircase on his way to heaven.
We also have to give props to Maurice Benard, in what was one of our favorite most recent performances by this staple of the series and the women of the Carlypalooza – Sarah Brown, Tamara Braun and Laura Wright. All in all, this was a very unique episode of the series.
So, what did you think of the 51st anniversary episode? Which performance did you enjoy the most? What brought you to tears? And which Carly did you love seeing the most? Or, was it the trifecta of all of them? Comment below!
General Hospital
WATCH: GH’s Nancy Lee Grahn, James Patrick Stuart and Y&R’s Michelle Stafford In ‘Soaps In Quarantine’ Episode 1
Leave it to General Hospital’s Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis) to be enterprising, and creative and providing social commentary at this time in our new reality.
Grahn has teamed up with her former GH Now partner, comedian and podcast host, Kaore Bonell for what looks to be on-going You Tube series, while we are all at home experiencing social distancing from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Courtesy/YouTube
For the first episode of the series aptly titled, “Soaps In Quarantine” Nancy and Kaore welcome GH’s James Patrick Stuart (Valentin) and The Young and the Restless Michelle Stafford (Phyllis) as their very special guests.
Topics are wide-ranging, and entertaining from some interesting tidbits about their soap characters and their individual times on different soap operas, to if they have each gone to the grocery store and what they are experiencing from items being MIA and flying off the shelves and more.
As you will see, the actors and the hosts all Skype-in or Face time in which is something we all can do to be within each other’s “comforts zones” while being isolated at home.
Check out “Soaps In Quarantine” episode 1 below and let us know what you thoughts of it via the comment section below.
Breaking News
47th Annual Daytime Emmy Ceremonies Canceled Due To Coronavirus Pandemic
There won’t be any “And the Enmy goes to _” come this June, where NATAS had originally scheduled three nights of award presentations honoring the best in daytime programming at the 47th Annual Daytime Emmys. The three-day event was slated for June 12-14th, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena. California. Deadline broke the story of the decision to postpone daytime’s biggest night, for now.
NATAS president and CEO Adam Sharp said of today’s decision: “These were extremely difficult decisions to make, but at the end of the day the health and safety of our event attendees and staff must remain our paramount concern,” NATAS president and CEO Adam Sharp said of today’s decision. “We are closely monitoring public heath authorities’ guidance, seeking feedback from our awards communities, and evaluating the flexibility of our venue and production partners as we plan for the future in this unprecedented context.”
NATAS chairman Terry O’Reilly said on the change” “Given our concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic, we have decided that we will not be staging the 47th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards in Pasadena this coming June. As there are so many unknowns right now with the flow of information changing on a daily, almost hourly, basis, it would simply be irresponsible to move forward with our annual celebration of excellence in daytime television at this time.”
Daytime Emmy Awards executive director Brent Stanton, who is involved in the judging of the competition that was well-under way before the cancellation, shared “Judging continues, and we look forward to announcing our incredibly talented nominees later this spring. We are working on some interesting alternative ideas for how to best recognize the honorees later this year and will share more details in the weeks ahead.”
So, what do you think of the cancellation of the Daytime Emmys? Comment below.
General Hospital
General Hospital’s Johnny Wactor Talks ‘Being Brando Corbin’
This week on General Hospital, viewers saw that Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) has set Port Charles newcomer Brando Corbin (Johnny Wactor) up with a mechanics garage for a place of business, that has left Brando concerned, but also thankful.
Brando came onto the scene when he saved Carly (Laura Wright) from gunfire. The once believed-to-be-dead son of Gladys Corbin (Bonnie Burroughs), has a checkered past, but has been trying to remain on the straight and narrow. Sonny had previously put into motion protection for teenaged Dev (Ashton Arbab), that he will continue to be passed off as the biological son of Brando to keep him safe. That, along with a back-story that includes: the Iraqi War, prison time, drug use, PTSD, familial issues, mob wars, and more, has loaded the deck for actor Johnny Wactor to show his acting chops and more within the daytime drama arena.
Since making his debut in the recurring role of Brando back in January of this year, in a short amount of time, Wactor has already displayed that he has solid leading man, and soap anti-hero potential, something that always serves one well amidst the romance, intrigue, and suspense of the genre’s storytelling.
Michael Fairman TV chatted with Johnny to get his thoughts on becoming part of the iconic GH and where he hopes Brando’s journey goes from here. Check out what he had to say below.
Photo: ABC
What do you think about your character’s name being “Brando”? Did GH tell you where the idea for the name came from?
JOHNNY: Oh, I love it. No, they didn’t tell me why, but I assume it was in some relation to Marlon Brando; when back in the day he was in a leather jacket … because I come onto the scene wearing a leather jacket as a badass!
What’s your experience been like coming onto a show like GH? Previously, I know you’ve done a lot of primetime roles and series. Were you shocked at the pace of shooting a daytime drama?
JOHNNY: Oh, yeah. I was made aware of the pace beforehand by my manager, as well as my buddy, Mark Grossman (Adam Newman) who works on The Young and the Restless. He’s kicking ass over there. In this genre, you get one rehearsal and one take pretty much, and then, they move on. It’s definitely been a learning curve, and I’m still getting used to that at times where I’m just like, “Ah, I want one more take!” I can get a bit obsessive and I’m a perfectionist. It definitely has been challenging, but I enjoy it. It’s fun to work at a fast pace. It’s a lot like working in the theatre.
In story, Johnny is pretending to be Dev’s father. Did you know that would be part of Brando’s story when you took on this gig?
JOHNNY: I did not. I didn’t know that until I read the first script that they sent me. I’m like, “I also have a son?” It was a lot to take in, but that’s where the imagination comes in.
What’s great for you, I would think, is that you’re getting to play in scenes with Maurice Benard and Laura Wright and major players who are a part of that core group. What’s it been like working with them?
JOHNNY: It’s been a Godsend, really. Being my first time on a daytime show, for one, anytime you come onto a new project and one that’s been going on for some time, and you’re a newcomer, there’s always that concern like, “What will this set be like? Is it like a familial atmosphere? Am I going to be welcomed?” They’ve made it super easy. I’m just so lucky that I have people who have so much experience on this show and just daytime shows in general, where they’ve kind of taken me under their wings and are super helpful. Anytime I have questions, they’re patient. I’m sure I annoy them sometimes, but they don’t let on to it. I’m grateful that they’ve sort of “teamed” me up with them to kind of ease me onto the show.
The fans are seeing a spark between Brando and Carly. Is Brando into Carly?
JOHNNY: I’d like to say that he rescued her because she was a beautiful blonde, but that’s not what that was and why he did it … even though I’m not denying that she’s a beautiful blonde. I think there’s something there, but how far Brando pursues that, I don’t know! Sonny sets Brando up with the garage and a pretty sweet deal at that. So, does Brando want to screw this up? However, not everyone makes logical, levelheaded decisions. We’ll see. I’m not ruling it out as something that could possibly happen.
How are you playing Brando right now? Is he a good guy … or, are there secret ulterior motives going down that the audience may not know about, yet?
JOHNNY: In my opinion, he is a guy who has got a good heart. I don’t think he is infallible. I think he is someone who is determined to be on the mend and make up for his decisions and his past, because he is someone who has made poor decisions. I don’t think you can rule him as a good person who will never make a mistake, or won’t get into trouble, or won’t make some bad decisions. “Does he have ulterior motives?” Maybe, but I think that if he does, they might be a little unconscious. I think he is a genuine good guy.
Photo: ABC
Are the fans swooning over you on social media now that you’ve made your GH debut? When you get the, “Oh, he’s hot,” do you take those compliments well, or, is it uncomfortable for you, and you deflect that?
JOHNNY: It’s always flattering to get those compliments. I think when I was younger, like 22, first getting into this business; I was definitely pining for those compliments and put more weight into it. I will say; it’s always good to have someone say something positive about you. I will take, “Hey, he’s good-looking.” I love the comments. It’s great.
So, what would you love to see happen with Brando? Is there anything that you’re seeing with your character that you wish you could do …or get to have the opportunity to be able to drive the direction in which he goes in?
JOHNNY: That’s a great question. I love when the writers put Brando on the scene and planted some seeds early on when he was revealing a little of his background to Carly. He reveals he has PTSD and spent time in prison. Brando also has got issues with drug addiction. I would love for those to kind of resurface somehow. Maybe Brando has a relapse and gets back on the sauce, or drugs, or maybe has some kind of other issues with PTSD, because those are the real things in the world that people deal.
Photo: ABC
What’s great about it is that they kind of loaded you up with a back-story that they can fill in, so that as a viewer, you ultimately root for the guy
JOHNNY: Absolutely. Yeah, nobody wants to root for the guy who has everything and just has the perfect life. We’ve all made mistakes. So, alright, he’s trying to get back on the horse and make a good life for himself.
Did you get any pointers from GH vet Steve Burton (Jason), who you have also shared several scenes with since coming to GH?
JOHNNY: The most pointers I’ve gotten from Steve are about preparation for the scenes. Every time we have scenes together, he’s just always willing to work with you, and make sure that you’re prepared, and he’s prepared, and the scene is going to be the best that it can be. Also, he’s been really invaluable with giving me more of a crash course on the background of these characters. This show has been on for decades and it’s tough to get caught up in the short amount of time between when you find out you have the job, and you start filming, to really know who everybody is. So, he explained to me who Jason is on the show and who the Corinthos family is and what they represent … these are dangerous guys!
Photo: ABC
Take me through what happened when you learned you got the part of Brando, and were joining the cast of General Hospital?
JOHNNY: I was at my apartment. I think it was probably two days after I went in for the producer’s session. They brought in 4 or 5 guys to read in front of the producers, (at least that I saw) and I felt strong about my reading. Then, I just kind of tried to forget about it after I left so I wouldn’t get all into my head about whether I got the part, or not. Then the next day, I didn’t get a phone call. So, I’m like, “Man, really? I thought that might have been it.” But the next day, I was with my girlfriend at the time and my agency was calling. My manager was on the phone as well, and they shared with me that I got the part, and it was exciting. It was a relief and an affirmation. It’s always exciting when you book a job and then to book a major recurring role on a show with a character whose name is “Brando Corbin”, needless to say, was really cool.
Photo: ABC
I think it’s very apparent that you have the “It” factor. You already have a shown a strong presence on the show and have a very bright future ahead of you. I have seen a lot of actors come and go, and who launch their careers on daytime over the years, and I think you are going to be one to watch for quite some time to come.
JOHNNY: First of all, thank you so much for saying that. That’s really kind of you. It’s really high praise. Coming from someone who knows that show and who is a fan of it that means I passed the test! Thank you, Michael! I really appreciate that affirmation. It’s good to get validation from someone whose opinion really matters.
Photo; ABC
Could you see a love interest for Brando coming up in the future?
JOHNNY: I could definitely see a love interest for him coming up. Maybe multiple love interests! Who knows?
I think there are a lot of single ladies in Port Charles.
JOHNNY: Yeah! But, why do they have to be single?
Right! Or, they could be married!
JOHNNY: It’s Port Charles!
Photo: ABC
So, have you been enjoying Johnny’s performances as Brando Corbin thus far? Who do you hope he becomes involved with romantically on GH? Do you want to know more about his back-story and see what happens next now that Sonny has set him up with a garage? Comment below.
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General HospitalMarch 18, 2020General Hospital’s Johnny Wactor Talks ‘Being Brando Corbin’
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InterviewsMarch 25, 2020B&B’s Katherine Kelly Lang on That ‘Brill’ Kiss, 33 Years as Brooke, Her Co-Stars & International Success
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Hated it. It is not an anniversary celebration when GH loses once again a legacy character we were cherishing. It is not a celebration when Frisco and All I need get trashed.
RC and FV”s nostalgic way to trash nostalgia and bring on their own memorable regime. Sadly nostalgia is not in WHO you write for but in HOW you write for EVERYONE…OLD AND NEW…If all the networks wants is someone to trash daytime over and over…GIVE IT TO THE SUPERFANS…once you learn the schematics of writing ANYONE can write a soap…it’s all about STAMINA and a REALISTIC imagination…ANYONE with a modicum of intelligence can write a soap..a primetime show…a comedy…it’s all about the embrace and chase to be better..to make sense and still be relevant..It’s all in the MIND and the PEN…don’t feed me DUNG and tell me it’s HAY…FOR REAL!!!
Huh?
You ok?
@davlestev1….I follow what you are saying ….I get it, and you are absolutely right. We, the viewers are being treated as witless idiots. We are expected to swallow the writers’s drivel without question….your quote…”Don’t feed me dung and tell me it’s hay is so apropos . I must ,however, disagree when you say that anyone with some intelligence can write. Unless one has a flair with the mighty pen, then no amount of intelligence will help. Take the time to read Shay’s writing…now, that is flair.
By definition, nostalgia is a longing for long ago days….evoking both joy and pain……of people and places that stir dormant, sweet memories….memories that leave a pang in your heart….perhaps a lost, young love.
That debacle of the three Carlys did nothing for me…..pathetic. When I saw those scenes of a younger Sonny, he looked like a wild man . He repulsed me. Some women are attracted to that swarthy look….to each his own, I guess.
Touche’, Chantal!!!!! I simply cannot comprehend Ron’s constant compulsion to denigrate GH’s most popular heartthrobs of the 1980’s and early 90’s…..he seems to have this unquenchable (and ongoing) need to destroy the characters’ reputations with off the wall storylines and comments, not to mention the morale of the actors and their fans with some of his more bizarre Twitter moments…first Jack Wagner was given a truly foolish exit, then Rick Springfield a far-too brief appearance and both have been made to look like cads and lousy fathers to their children. Tristan Rogers was handed a really abridged and unceremonious farewell and most recently, Sean Kanan’s AJ was literally bullied to death for months on end by Ava and Sonny (after being cruelly tormented by Tracy from Day One of his return to the show….) Carlivati even had to have a go at John Stamos, first by offering him a truly insulting cameo during the 50th anniversary year, then launching a childish social media rant against him…..which apparently was just a warm-up for his “raising Kanan” campaign on Sean. In the meantime, he keeps adding boring new cardboard male characters that totally pale in comparison to the aforementioned ones from Port Charles’ yesteryears. I cannot fathom why he so delights in alienating the huge fan bases that each of these actors bring with them….their return engagements have added new excitement and higher ratings to GH, only to have our (and their) expectations dashed in short order each and every time. It’s just shameful…..
Very True Shay. What was the point of having Noah cheat on Bobbie? It was so Bobbie can have a conversation with Scotty about infidelity? It was to mention the name Annie Logan in the anniversary episode? Bobbie couldn’t have a conversation about infidelity and point to countless examples in her life over the last 30 years? RC is a fool. He writes these silly plot points and either doesn’t take into consideration the fact that he is destroying a character’s reputation or he’s just doing it on purpose. The only thing the Carly flashbacks showed was how good the writing and the show used to be and how far it has fallen.
Jack Wagner’s character as Frisco and RIck Springfield’s Characer as Noah Drake looked like bad fathers long before RC/FV. How people forgot that Frisco left town and his family many many years ago when Wagner left the show. His character doing what he did was true to his actions.
Rick Springfield wasnt going to be on the show in order to explain Jackie Zeman’s possibly moving on to a romance with Scotty they had to break them up. Some people have nothing better to do but complain.
stop killing the kids on GH please stop it……………enough of it already so many dead:<( lazy writing past and present…………..would have been a great episode for me but the killing of AJ was the worst for me. I'm done…..
Shay, please write a novel, please!!!! Or perhaps a compilation of critiques of anything. I simply cannot get enough of this wonderful gift you have. Frankly, I am surprised you haven’t written a book…or have you? Is there something out there you have written that I can buy? …get my hands on? I am an avid reader of romantic novels….mysteries. Sometimes I need to escape from medical books.
Soaps 101, when you kill someone off, is it because there is nowhere else for the character to go. No new direction? If not, DONT DO IT! AJ was a Quartermaine, that alone should be reason to keep him. AJ was connected to Michael, Sonny, Carly, Liz, Ava, Monica, Tracy, and Ned. Now you give those characters one less person to act with. They killed several stories by killing AJ! Plus, when Jason comes back, imagine the scenes between those two brothers. Lately Ron and Frank, its one step forward with the two of you and two steps back!
I so agree with your statements:>)
The episode was a disgrace. A 51st Anniversary show that kills AJ Quartermaine and spits on his grave. Cartini have no respect for GH or its fans. Really, what was point of killing the character of AJ Quartermaine? Spite? Vindictiveness? Marking your territory?
AJ dies, He follows the rest of the dead Q’s up the stairs into the light and then a BIG sign comes on, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! It was so inappropriate that it was almost comical. But of course, no one is that stupid. It was deliberate. It was a total screw you to the fans. A message. It’s our show now and too bad. Then we get the next day’s preview of Silas, Franco, Ava, Nathan and TJ’s mother. You know, General Hospital.
And btw, how many times can you use the same gimmicks? Enough with the ghosts. Is there an ounce of originality or creativity in these guys? The scene of Edward & Lila walking up the stairs was nice. A year and a half later, you do it again? These guys are clueless and out of ideas. GH is a mess. The anniversary show was a disgrace and someone at ABC should get control of this show.
Spot on, GH50…spot on!!!! A total disgrace, indeed! As for the “Annie Logan” mention? That was just bizarre….although I have to admit, the first time I saw Rebecca Herbst as Liz Webber, I thought for sure she was going to be Jeff and Anne’s daughter….she does bear a passing resemblance to Susan Pratt!!! I was actually surprised that her mother was somebody else.
Yet you still watch and come on here and complain week after week. I don’t ge that. If I dislike something I stop watching and stop talking about it. BUt I think some people just come on here and complain for no reason.
Except for a couple of minutes at the start, there was essentially no tribute in this show. Rather than looking at pictures on a wall, how about pulling some old video of folks like Steve, Jessie, the Qs, The Webbers, etc. Way too many minutes wasted yesterday on the piece with Sonny and the old Carly. I’ve totally lost respect for the Sonny character with his shooting AJ. The scene of him lighting candles and kneeling to pray. Praying that he’s not caught? He has no remorse. I really liked AJ. I was hoping to see him recover and move on to a life free from unnecessary guilt. Ridiculous to have his death on the date of the shows anniversary. Yesterday’s show was a disappointment.
I agree. Not only was it incredibly boring but very strange having all three Carly’s on the show and kind of a slap in the face to Laura Wright showcasing other Carly’s.
The whole AJ/Monica stuff was weird. Why would I want to see his death scenes on a 51st anniversary show?
What happened to real nostalgia?
Yawn.
I loved the episode very much. It is very painful that the Quartermaine family is never allowed to be happy! Why must they always suffer. Why must they all die? I am one of the current regimes biggest supporters. It’s times like this that I ask myself …..WHY????
only because the writers decided we did not need them guess loved the quarterfinals Edward was so family oriented he would do anything for his family Lila was so kind and loving Alan would help anyone that needed it we need more characters like these miss them all
I bawled my eyes out at the end, when AJ was taken to Heaven by Edward, Lila, Alan, and Emily. I, too, am so sorry to see another great actor given such awful material, opting to leave the show. It’s sad to see the Quartermaine family decimated.
Great recap!
Thought it was very clever and creative – Frank V. really excels at these special touches which is something considering they put out 250-ish episodes a year.
Wish DAYS would do more stuff like this sometimes – they don’t seem to think outside the box as much as GH does.
I agree, nice job. Soaps have been on TV for so long its tough to figure out something new to do for the fans.
Agree… Great writing and very good episode.. Been watching soaps for many years and continue to like GH and all the writers are bringing.. Fast moving and exciting and interesting.. not soo boring like Daaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyysssss.. that goes soooooooo slooooooooowwwwwwww…..
I thought it was done very well. I really like the three Carly flashback.
Thank you for today’s beautiful GH episode. The opening roll call gave me goosebumps. Honoring Carly/Sonny with the 3 actresses who played Carly was a treat and did not slow down story for gimmick or sentiment. Bobbie explaining to Scott that Noah Drake dumped her for former town virgin, Anne Logan, had me laughing out loud. The Monica, Emily and A.J. scenes were gold. Finally, A.J.’s ascent to heaven, seeing Lila, Edward and Alan on the way left me teary eyed. I heard myself say aloud (in an empty room, no less) “there they go, the Quartermaine family. One knitpicky thing – I wish A.J. had asked Emily why Jason was not there. Such a beautiful episode – thanks again!!! Paging Dr. Steve Hardy; Paging Nurse Jesse Brewer…..
I noticed that about Jason too. Maybe he figures it out later! I loved the episode, especially that they didn’t care if we saw flashbacks of the other 2 Carlys and even incorporated them into present day.
Well, we are supposed to believe that Jason is still alive.
Great point Joe, where is Jason? On earth, I suppose, frozen in time! Paging Dr. Robin Scorpio Drake!
LOVED the reference to Anne Logan, too! After all these years, they finally closed out her arc. Someday, I hope they figure out a way to bring back Brad Maule, too. Talk about waterworks waiting to happen…
Oh wow; you are right, Tony Jones’ photo was hanging on the hospital wall in the opening of the episode. Talk about a tear jerker, emmy worthy performance-Tony saying “good-bye” to BJ. I still remember that like it was yesterday.
Jason is in Genoa City serving coffee!!!
Er, no, Jason is frozen on a slab somewhere being experimented on by Robin.
I confess to reading this as I am on a writing deadline and have no time to catch the episode, now on the net…I’m glad I did. It is a lovely re-cap and doesn’t spoil a thing; I will leisurely catch the episode in due time and thank you so much! Looking forward!
There will always be people who are hard to please.
The carly thing was so clever and it worked sooooo well I love Laura but I loved Sarah and Tams just as much and it was such a fan service to let us see them again in such a special way. And as much as I would rather there be more Q’s around esp Alan they’re gone and it made for some rich scenes for Monica it was heart wrenching to hear her talk about how everyone shes ever loved died and that final scene was really lovely. I always preferred Billy Warlocks AJ to Seans and I’m kind of sad theres no door open for AJ to ever come back but I’m not so invested in the character I cant appreciate the emotional weight or the lovely send off.
I miss Alan, too. Miss the Quartermaine’s. I have to disagree about Billy Warlock. I grew-up with Sean Kanan as AJ Quartermaine. Didn’t watch much when Billy played AJ. I wish the writers took advantage of Sean’s acting skills and wrote a great story for him-being in recovery and a possible love interest. Too much time has been spent on useless recurring characters, new recurring characters, and the tween scene.
Loved the Carlypalooza! It was brilliant idea of Sonny reminding Carly about what AJ did to them & Michael. Instead of Maurice Bernard talk to Laura Wright’s Carly about the landmarks in their relationship, he got to share the events of their lives with the actresses(Sarah Brown and Tamara Braun) who played Carly.
Disgusting episode!!!!!! This regime has NO clue what the fans want. Wow! Read a message boatd once in a while Ron!!!!!!
the episode was interrupted by late breaking news(gh airs at 2pm in colo springs) by obama press confres about obama care. just when sarah brown came on, and came back with tamara braun, so i gave up watching and will purchase the episode on itunes, no thanks to abc.
Try watching on YouTube. Daily episodes are posted of GH. Just need the free app. I watch everyday while at the gym, no charge.
If your cable company has OnDemand, GH episodes are also found under the ABC shows heading for free.
I am sad the Sean Kanan has left the show and that AJ is now dead ‘for real’. The Quartermaines were once the bread and butter of this show and it’s really sad that only Monica and Tracy are the only ones left. That said, it was a great episode with lots of flashbacks and historic moments. It’s very rare for a recast (Carly) to have flashbacks of the previous actors!
I loved the opening! Perfect tribute to characters we’ve loved over the years.
Seeing Sarah as Carly reminded viewer s that she is the blueprint of Carly. When Maurice said “this was supposed to be forever”, you kind of saw the look on their faces like there was definitely some unfinished business with there version of Sonny & Carly. With Tamara’s Carly, you saw the character grow & redefined while still having that edge. Maurice seemed very happy to see Tamara again. They got up around the set, interacted with each other in comfort, when Tamara talked about the meltdown, you can see the disappointment in both of their faces as the the scene transitions into today’s version of Carly Laura Wright. While it works, the magic isn’t there with Maurice & Laura like the other two Carly’s. I think he was most comfortable with Tamara because she had alot to prove and knocked it out the park. Carly-palooza was fun to watch and shows why Carly is an important character.
i liked the episode but i think it should have been less sonny/carly scenes – where was michael??? he should have been there with monica after all aj was his father…………….
i must say monica & aj scenes were awesome!
The episode was good but why do they to keep putting Frisco down. Frisco and Felicia helped make GH what it is and they keep trashing him. They must really hate Jack Wagner. The scene with Monica brought me to tears!
It is shameful that did episode celebrated the decimation of the Quartermaine family and further glorified CarSon. It is a shame that they never get to pay for their sins. In the Gospel according to General Hospital, crime does pay. It is a crying shame!
The opening was ok…wouldve been better had we heard Steve Hardy in the background yelling ‘What the Hell has happened to my General Hospital!!!’…There was not much to celebrate watching a legacy character, especially a Q, being killed off…it was nice to see Mac, Felicia, Scott, Bobbi, Lucy, and Kevin but it felt like they were on their own show and not part of GH!!!
This was a sickening, emotionally manipulative, terribly written episode that showcased the absolute worst of what fans have HATED about this show for 15 years…since the Guza/Phelps reign of terror began. If you don’t like Carly…and the majority of viewers dont….this episode screwed you over 6 ways from Sunday. We were forced to relive the complete ugliness that defined Sonny and Carly. This was the way they chose to honour loyal fans???? I am shocked’and disgusted and appalled.
No doubt that Carly has been portrayed by 3 stellar actresses!! They have all been awesome. But…the trashing and eventual death of AJ was unnecessary and a slap in the face to the legacy of the Quartermaines
Even in death, AJ’s life is all about Sonny and Carly…and as an added bonus, Ava. We didn’t get a single flashback of AJs history. Instead we got three Carly’s screaming like a banshee. Each one got a turn. It was very nice to see all three, but it did nothing to move the story forward, was clearly was a stunt, and quite honestly distracting. If you want to use the old flashbacks, then use them. The audience has already made the recast leap with you. There was no need for three different actresses with no explanation. Can’t wait for the Days 50th where the writers kill off a Horton. I laughed out loud at the line about the Quartermaines growing because of Danny and Michael. I won’t be surprised when next week Monica sells the Mansion to Madeline and Tracy, in her dumbed down state, moves onto the haunted star. Ron has systematically destroyed the history of every vet that he has touched on this show. Women have become stupid (Anna not knowing she was kissing a latex mask, Liz letting Ric anywhere near her and her kids, Carly hooking up with Franco, Alexis & Julian) , and moved in so many new characters that someone tuning in after a two year absence would have no idea who anyone is. He has destroyed super couples (Luke & Laura, Patrick & Robin, Frisco & Felicia), treated 21 year vets exits with the subtlety & care of a jackhammer, without one single flasback(Jason), and trashed longtime fandoms and friendships on the almighty altar of agenda (Liason, Scotty & Lucy). Every “romance” takes place in a day maybe two, and then once you might get interested in a couple they disappear for months(only if they are vets, new folks get shoved down our throats see Sabrina & Britt) And add to that a series of farcical villains and characters with tenuous at best ties to GH (Sabrina, Britt, Obrecht, Franco, Silas, Nathan, Ava, Kiki, Nathan, Madeline, Nina, Carlos…I’m sure I missed some). The storylines aren’t about the vets, they belong to the new characters( Nina is Silas & Ava, Ben’s kidnapping is Britt & Obrecht, Connie’s murder – Ava, Robins return – Sabrina, Jason’s death- Julian & Faison) A lot of folks, RC included, response will be, “Why are you still watching if it is so bad?” or “You sure waste a lot of time thinking about something you hate?” I watch because I have been loyal to this show for 30 years. Without me, and other fans like me, there would be no GH. The only difference is now, I can watch 10 hours of shows in 3 hours, because there is not much to keep me interested. And I’m not alone if Twitter is an indication. To fix the show would be pretty simple. Get rid of most of the new creations and mine the long history of the show and the characters relationships. Write stories that have some meaning.… Read more »
Do yourself a huge favor and do not follow RC on twitter he is almost always out of control. The bottom line is every EP & HW from the beginning of time comes in and wants to put their rubber stamp on the show they are working on. My favorite time was the 80 & 90’s.
Yes I know well that RC is out of control. But in fairness there are a lot of nasty people out there who offer nothing constructive, just “You Suck”. Now he has also been known to be a bit overly sensitive to criticism, even constructive. The thing with the 80s and 90s is that they built on the decades before. Frisco started playing in Blackie’s band. Mac came on as Robert’s brother. This regime just creates characters out of whole cloth and then puts them front and center. I think it’s something like 13 new characters since they have started with the show just two years ago. And that’s not counting the SORAS’d recasts. Then if you look at who the stories belong to, it certainly isn’t the vets.
Compare that to Y&R and they have something like 5 new characters since JFP took over. And the stories involve the vet characters and the new folks, are supporting. Even SBu. This is as much MTS’s story as it is Steve’s.
The Quartimaine mansion will get burned down…itll never be sold!
LOL! You are probably right about that.
MC you watch so you can come on the internet and complain about the show. By still wathcing you send no message at all . That is total contradiction. In the last 10 years or so of All My Children I stopped watching as I did not like what the show had become. I didnt watch every day and complain on the internet I simply stopped watching. IF you hate the show so much stop watching. Don’t claim loyalty to a show. Because loyalty means you dont hate on something.
There are a lot of things I don’t like about GH and I, as any other viewer has the right to vent, complain, gripe, bitch, moan and anything else that strikes us.
There are few soaps left. Understatement. If people who complain, myself included, are still watching, perhaps it’s with the hope that THIS day it will be better or there’ll be a shift…or maybe for nostalgia…boredom?…curiosity? familiarity? Who knows…I do know that when Prospect Park debuted with their version of OLTL I watched a few episodes and lost all interest. THAT show didn’t even resemble OLTL. So, yeah, I griped and eventually stopped watching. I was hoping that it’d get a third shot…make yet another appearance and pick up where ABC’s version left off. Still keeping that on the back burners of TV hopes…
As far as GH…there’s plenty of great stuff in my opinion…and when there is, I’m just as vocal. Specifically with characters I love. With that said, when storylines suck…and characters are killed off…and dialogue is beyond inane and insane…I voice my opinion on that too. If you, David, are so easy to please and like everything about GH…great. Those of us who don’t can get on a board such as this and voice our grievances. And…here’s an idea. Just as you suggest that people who don’t like GH stop watching, I can suggest that perhaps you should stop coming to this site where not everyone agrees…or just skip over the ones you sense will make your skin crawl.
“If you hate the (substitute show) comments so much, stop (substitute watching) reading.”
Oh…and David…spoiler alert. I’m about to complain about this episode!
I HATED IT! I agree with some others: An Anniversary Episode should not include the senseless death of a beloved legacy character…LOL…and as he ascends the stairs to Heaven they flash Happy Anniversary GH! Those of us who loved AJ and mourned his untimely demise were not “happy.” Not with the death of the character or the departure of Sean Kanan.
I thought the dialog between Emily, AJ and Monica was devoid of emotion. I don’t know…a mom just loses a child…not to mention ANOTHER child!!! and she’s just discussing calmly with her deceased daughter and newly deceased son how upset she is. And, if ghosts really do come back…why don’t they visit more often? LOL…
There was in death, just as in life, no real emotion between AJ and Emily…just a few glances as they chatted and walked together. The three stand-ins for Alan, Edward and Lila did just that…just stood there! C’mon…if they’re really able to communicate, if they’re basking in everlasting love/peace and togetherness, I would’ve have liked a more emotional welcome from the Q’s to their son/grandon/brother. AJ looks at the supposed Lila, Edward and Alan and they nod to him like it’s a royal procession. I expected the Queen to come out and wave from the balcony!
Yeah, it was fun seeing the old Carly’s…but was completely inappropriate for an episode where AJ dies. The flashbacks should have been Monica’s as she remembered AJ in all his ages/stages. Then we’d get to see the young AJ as well as he is now and there’d be some emotional wallop to that.
All in all it left me cold….just like the death of AJ and departure of Sean.
Very well said, rebecca1 and 100% correct!!!! I’ll never be convinced otherwise that that chirpy little “Happy Anniversary!” tag immediately following AJ’s ascension up the “Stairway to Heaven” was not purposely intended to inflame and insult GH’s (and Sean Kanan’s) most loyal longtime fans….it was Ron’s way of saying “Take that people!” I’m quite sure he was pleased as punch with himself as he laughed uproariously over his immature, none-too-thinly veiled middle-fingered farewell to both the Quartermaine heir and the actor who portrayed him….make no mistake, it was absolutely meant to offend. Well, mission accomplished!!! It is just that put up or shut up attitude that regularly brings us here to post our disgust and disdain at such obvious evidence of how a time-honored daily tradition has become a vision of totally uncalled for and undesirable dysfunction. From the lack of storyline continuity and consistency of legacy characters, to a nearly constant introductory parade of banal, underwhelming and subpar newbies, there is much to validly criticize about the show. This particularly egregious event was just the latest and most obnoxious example of “Cartini’s” true and utter contempt for the audience’s investment of time and care in their Port Charles saga….it was the real icing on the cavalier cake that we were fed during the excruciatingly drawn-out process of disposing of our beloved AJ….how many times was it really necessary to have the strong-willed and determined Quartermaine cheat death and find his way back to the land of the living before returning to limbo for yet another day or week until his ultimately untimely death???? Just another fine indication of their backhanded slaps proffered to inflict discontent and dash hopes for the character’s enthusiastic champions! Combined with being devoid of a proper send-off via a fond and bittersweet montage of AJ’s greatest moments, it only further illustrated the complete disregard held by this regime for we the viewers. Shame on them for displaying such an appalling absence of class!!!!! P.S. If they think that the proposed return of thawed out “Popsicle Boy” Jason, will placate us and replace AJ in our affections, then they definitely have another thing coming!!!!! The brothers aren’t interchangeable….and they never will be!!!!!
I loved every minute of the Anniversary show! It was well written, well acted, and was very heartwarming. It also tugged at the heart strings at the end. Seeing the likeness of Lila, Edward, and Alan to help lead AJ to heaven was very well done. Using the GH steps to lead up to heaven and into the light was superb.
I loved the Carly trilogy! Each of the different actresses did a wonderful job with the character of Carly. Love them all, and love Maurice (Sonny) in every scene he does! (Them darn dimples get me all the time)! Happy Anniversary General Hospital. Don’t ever leave my afternoons!!!!
Please keep in mind that Sonny is a murderer and a coward. If he were a real man, he would turn himself in. There is no excuse for what he did. By his own admission, he WANTED to kill AJ. Are you condoning this behavior? You prefer dimples to justice, is that it?
FAS…To respond to your post near the top of the page, let me first say you are most kind with your compliments, and perhaps a bit clairvoyant! In just the past month or so I have been jotting down character treatments for a possible novel, though nothing major at this point, just ideas upon which I’ve been ruminating for awhile…. but it was sort of spooky that you mentioned it! Other than that, my background has included extensive feature writing for newspapers and advertising-public relations copywriting, though none very recently…..let’s just say I moved on and life got in the way! But I’ve always loved the creative process, missed it terribly and since I developed such an abject frustration with GH in the past year, I simply began to post my observations here, as I found this to be the best and most intelligent soap website available…it was purely happenstance, although I will say it has been a really wonderful experience and an excellent opportunity to again stretch my writing legs! If my thoughts and means of expressing them provide you pleasure, then all the better!!!! (I also enjoy your commentary!!!!) This truly is a great place for debate and discussion of issues regarding the soap genre, as so many of the participants here are quite impressive in their analyses and critiques!!!! That being said, since you mentioned your medical studies, please allow me to wish you the best of luck in your chosen career field…the world definitely needs far more healers, and probably fewer writers!!!!! However, thank you for your words of encouragement….they were ever so nice!!!!!! P.S. Hope that we both continue to visit here for a long time!!!!!
Michael Fairman:
I really love how you wrote this piece Michael. It brought me to tear’s, your writing of the Monica and AJ scene. Great Job Michael, I say this because, I actually saw the scene and was moved a 2nd time in you’re writing of it.
Sarah Brown, better actress.
Laura Wright, sexiest, prettiest, best body
Tamara Braun, most compassionate & reasonable Carly, stilled played w/ the edge.
Tamara: You are far prettier, put some weight on honey; your face is too thin, taking away from you’re natural beauty.
Maurice Benard: Always on point. Thank you for serving us for 21 years on General Hospital.
Frank Valentini and Ron Carlivati: What you have done for this show, simply amazes me.
THANK YOU!
Frank and Ron hit it out of the park with the three Carlys. What luck that all three were available. So unique how they told the Carly stories and then currently dealt with Carly having to cover for Sony after murdering AJ. Thats the sad part, another Q gone! I wasnt as overwhelmed with the Quartermaines walking up the stairs to heaven because it had already been done so brilliantly before with Edward and Lila. Frank and Ron have to somehow rebuild the Q mansion with new family, half on Monica’s team and half on Tracy’s team.
I loved this episode and will most likely watch it a few more times!!! I loved the Carlypalooza!!! I loved seeing Sarah and Tamra and Laura… it all blended very well and it was a fun walk down the Carly and Sonny memory lane. I loved the nod to Annie Logan… a character I liked very much and wish we could have back again. The nods to so many were fabulous! I know Sean is leaving and all of the back drama around that… but I thought it was handled beautifully by everyone! The whole episode was great and yet the Carly and Sonny moments were my favorite… the mentions and likenesses of so many favorites was really lovely!!!
Well done by all on the episode and behind the scenes!!! Love GH and always will!!! Happy 51st year and Congratulations to the best soap!!! The best cast!!! The best crew… writers and everyone who brings it over and over again each day!!!
As someone who started watching GH again at the beginning of their 50th anniversary celebration, I think it was well done. I missed the entire Sonny era beginning in the 90’s and think it was fitting to honor that whole thread that has contributed to GH because there was nothing about his contributions during the Nurses’ Ball last year.
Like most fans who grew up with L&L, it’s sad to see how the rich Quartermaine history has been decimated. I agree that the excuse of “having nowhere to take AJ” is very lazy because as anyone can see from DALLAS, just because a character is alcoholic does not make them useless. Monica is an alcoholic. Luke is an alcoholic, for goodness’ sake! But, IMO, you can’t say that the current regime hates GH’s legacy because they’ve done a good job honoring it. I see more older actors than younger ones on GH these days – Scott, Bobbie, Lucy, Kevin, Tracy, Luke, Alexis, Monica, Duke and especially Anna are on regularly. Who brought back Nickolas, Liz, Ric, & Lucas? Same regime. I have no problem with new characters as long as they illuminate the old ones, which Ava certainly has.
It was also very creative & open of them to show three of the Carly actresses because most shows do not want to break the illusion of the current “face” of the character. Giving them screen time in the present was also groundbreaking! But, so was Carly as I understand. All three of those actresses won Emmys for playing her, which must be some kind of record.
I know it won’t always be perfect. But, I hope the current writers keep up the good work, and keep the focus on the future. Monica is perfect as a feisty matriarch because she’ll be a great combination of Edward & Lila, while heading up GH of course (oh, yes, she’ll be reinstated). In fact, having the Q’s medical & business fronts headed up by two ball-busting women would be great legacy IMO. It’s Tracy time to shine & who can’t wait until she kicks this iteration of Luke to the curb? I’m looking forward to that!
A great episode honoring some of the best characters on GH. Just seeing the back of Lila’s head had me in tears. Was surprised that AJ died, was sure he would linger in a coma and emerge as a new actor, but his death raises the stakes for Sonny, Ava, Michael, Carly and Monica. I don’t think Monica would hesitate to kill Sonny with her bare hands when she finds out!
Why didnt we see jason? Because he is supposedly frozen somewhere and just may return!! Wishful thinking! Amazing episode, the SonyCarly scenes took me back ages!!!!!! Well done!
I loved the episode and in particular the brilliance of incorporating the 3 Carlys. Don’t think this has been done before on any other soap. Saddest part was AJ dying and going to heaven with his family. Maurice Benard and the 3 Carlys were wonderful, as was Leslie Charleson – sad moments but the show goes on. Thanks for this very unique episode!
I absolutely adored the beginning of this episode, with the gallery of photos in the hospital of our beloved cast members that have passed away both on and off screen. Sean Kanan had so much potential as AJ Quartermaine. Unfortunately, he was not given the suitable material and storylines to play out. I was very excited to see him come back two years ago, as I adore the Quartermaine’s. The only AJ Quartermaine in my eyes is Sean, not Billy Warlock. As much as I loved the tribute episode, seeing many of our beloved, core, legacy characters, I am also saddened to see the Quartermaine family continue to be decimated.
I thought the beginning was good.
I am sick of the ghost device being used in soaps to bring back characters that are dead– GH has been guilty of this a lot in the last year.
The staircase up to heaven has touching and poignant when it was used to usher Edward up to heaven to be with Lilia — but this time it seemed silly and cliche as if they were thinking everyone like that when we did with Edward lets do it again. But it didn’t work this time, at least not for me—I doubt AJ would blissfully walk into the light with all his unfinished business on earth, he seems to be the kind of ghost that would stick around until his name was cleared and Sonny was brought to justice.
As for the Carly thing— that was just odd. I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t love it either.
i liked the beginning it was so good to see the other carlys my favorite was tamara braun i wish they would bring her back for something. it was a real tear gerker. what is sonny gonna do when michael finds out he shot aj. and please, please, dont put liz and nickales back together iam tired of miss goody two shoes, and what did you do to luke i dont like this part he is playing. i am so happy about britt she got what she deserved i feel sorry for nickales he didnt deserved any of this he just wanted to be happy and that wacko mother of hers needs to be put away. please let it come out that ava shot connie sonny will go baserk that will make a good story line.
I was unimpressed with yesterday’s episode. Killing a Quartermaine off I’m never impressed with that decision. Super “humanizing” a mobster such as Sonny in a warm and fuzzy moment in a chapel with a cross as a backdrop is classless. Sonny just killed AJ and we’re celebrating him? The mob story line just about put GH in the grave just a few years ago so we want to go back down that line again?! Trashing former stars in the 51st Anniversary episode is low class! GH wouldn’t be on the air 51 years if it wasn’t for the those former characters! I truly understand why Sean Kanan left…his storylines were awful! Couldn’t someone come up with the idea to recast or persuade Billy Warlock to return? I stopped watching GH in the early 2000’s when Sonny went after AJ and decided the show was too dark for me. I just started back up in the last 2 years…I’m ready again to stop watching! Destroying the legacy of Alan & Monica (which saved GH in 1977) is a damn shame! Bringing back the gangster son through some miracle of Robin is not the same. The character of Jason can stay gone! Get it together GH!
You are right about Sonny’s placement in that religious setting being offensive…of all locations to put Carly and him as they wallowed in their immense hubris, unmitigated gall and hypocritical glory. It would have been different if either one of them had shown one ounce of remorse for their despicable past or present behavior toward the horribly wronged AJ, but to see them waxing nostalgic and commiserating in a chapel was in extremely poor taste.
Shay, I reciprocate your compliments and well- wishes. Your writing is amazing…the words simply jump out and grab my senses. I must admit, you are not the first to have labeled me as clairvoyant….’tis I, the witch, Alida, lol.
Yes, I do hope we will have the privilege of commenting on Gh, as long as it’s broadcast.
GENERAL HOSPITAL works best for me when the storylines are hospital- and family-based. I was tired of the mob plotlines and had hoped the series would minimize those when the golden anniversary neared and we moved into this new era.
The current GH has so many characters and relies on so many cliches (endless resurrections and parentage games) and I get frustrated, BUT… I do like the actors and attention to history. Just would like a little more reality.
Recently reviewed the Rachel Ames guest spot from a year ago. Her brief return as Audrey is what I would like GH to be. I would like more of those moments and less over-the-top plotting.
That said, I am grateful to have a 51st anniversary to celebrate. GH and DAYS are the best we have now among precious few daytime dramas.
i wish as in some spoiler sites that AJ would have asked Emily where Jason was. It was out there that Emily would say “It is not his time yet” so I was kinda of bummed
The Quartermaine family is officially gone. 🙁 The mansion will never be the same. Now we have Michael and Danny to carry the legacy, what a joke
While I can’t disagree with much of what the earlier posters have opined about how A.J. was treated since Sean returned, and that there’s still too much focus on Sonny, I absolutely loved seeing Sarah Brown and Tamara Braun as the earlier Carlys. I would have never anticipated seeing these actresses on G.H. again and thoroughly enjoyed watching them ‘live’ and in their flashbacks.
I think Laura Wright is a fabulous Carly, but my choice for the definitive Carly is Sarah Brown, perhaps because she was the actress who introduced the character. I recall the few episodes early on when she called herself “Carly-Babes” although I don’t remember under what circumstances.
What I thought the 51st anniversary show did best was feature the 3 exceptional Carly actresses, let us see how so many Q deaths have affected Monica, and allow Lucy to finally make the right decision about Kevin/Scott.
Along with so many other fans, I’ve been quite disappointed at many of the storyline choices Ron C. has made and not too long ago decided to stop watching the show, but there have been enough scenes lately that I changed my mind. I try to be positive rather than negative despite my disappointments, and I know TBTB love Kathleen Gati’s portrayal of Dr. Obrecht, but if I never saw or heard that character again, I’d be a very happy camper. End of digression from 51st anniversary episode. I’m glad that I recorded it so that I can play it again a few more times. Sometimes, Ron and Frank get it really right; the rest of the time I just fast forward. But I’ve been watching for 31 years and it’s hard to let go of the show when it does get it right.
I think it was a huge mistake to kill off AJ. Too many writers, B&B and Y&R included, think stunts and stunt casting is what we want.
I want to be as emotionally invested in a soap the way I was with Guiding Light in the 80’s and 90’s.
I like these shows, but I can watch them in 15-20 min a day because theres so much fluff and filler.
GH is brilliantly produced, directed and acted. The writers obviously work very hard and are very creative. But it doesn’ t always work. They are really not attracting many new viewers in the last several months; ratings are pretty much stalled. And I think the reason is the show is too frenetic and choppy, too many mini-stories that last a few weeks then are put on hold so they can do a short arc for other characters. There was no need to kill off AJ; put him in a permanent coma. The Carly thing was weird but okay. This regime needs to decide what kind of show GH will be. It’s too much of too many things. It’s fun to watch now and then because it’s so crisp and fast moving, but my investment is limited because I can’t quite attach to many of the characters.
The one thing I would ask RC is keep politics out of a soap the cheap shot at Gov. Chris Christie was stupid and I do not live in NJ but really we watch soaps to get away from politics!
Seems that “someone” in the writing department has a peculiar preoccupation with portly politicians from the Northeast…first Rob Ford, now Chris Christie! Hmmmm…….
Are you kidding? My bet is that RC destroyed AJ because Sean Kanen is a political conservative and it went against RC’s leftist/liberal agenda. At least it is when SK tweeted something of a conservative bent that AJ first went into the woodwork….
I never implied that it was a positive “preoccupation.” On the contrary….it was an obvious dig at both politicians’ parties. For all his faults, Ford is a conservative, while Christie (although GOP) is a far lesser one, albeit still not a complete liberal. As for your assertion about Kanan and the repercussions he may have faced at GH, I would not be one bit surprised….he appeared on Fox’s “Red Eye” some time ago and very ably discussed his views on Israel. Since then, I have always suspected him to be a possible “Friend of Abe.” No wonder they have to keep their membership list a closely-guarded secret!!!!
No Hollywood liberal would see Christie as anything but an evil Republican. I am presuming you didn’t see msnbc for the last six months when that bridge deal was all they talked about day after night after day.
Please let us not talk politics . Let’s stick to the soaps which what this is for…
@Elizabeth….You correctly presume that I haven’t seen msnbc for the last six months….or any other time, for that matter! I refuse to waste my time on that garbage!!!! But you have nailed the Christie thing in a nutshell….he needs to go away and stay there.
YOU PEOPLE ARE NEVER HAPPY!!! I thought it was a great episode. Carlypalooza was very well done as was AJ’s exit. IMO, AJ may be a Quartermaine but I won’t miss the character.
I thought it was a great episode also. Have no complaints ..
Susan, I would be hapy not to talk politics…. if GH would do the same. Even on the official ABC GH Happenings site there is a tab for “political happenings”. Check it out – it basically mimics the leftist talking points of any poltical topic out there. If they want to use their brand for that then why shouldn’t I respond?
I was referring to (Shay) comments about politics not yours(Elizabeth)..
And I was merely initially responding to k/kay’s observation regarding GH’s unnecessary insertion of certain politicians as topics of conversation….that’s what got this whole ball rolling!!!! I simply thought it an odd coincidence that both pols mentioned were of obviously hugely rotund proportions as well as similar party affiliations….just saying!!! Never meant for this to become a political roundtable, although the ensuing comments made very valid points!!!!!
what a delicate way to put it…”hugely rotund proportions…” LOL.
Just calling them as I see them, rebecca1!!!! Lol…. ; )
The anniversary episode was AMAZING! I loved the scenes with Tamra Braun!
The opening tribute was great! The Carlypalooza a work of genius! Sonny & Carly are always fantastic! Killing A J – again – was the best thing since the character was written into a corner that in no way ever reflected the history of the character! The Lila & Edward ghosts were greatly appreciated – a big tip of the hat for that! No Jason & no mention from Monica a little suspect – she could have asked & Em & A J could have given her a look or said ” you will see him again”. Hopefully that will be in the form of Steve Burton! Resurrections are de rigueur on soaps – so Alan, Em, A J can always come back! Helena may have them all on ice on Cassadine Island! Mostly a thumbs up on this episode! Now they need to bring back the GH Theme Song (Dave Koz’s version) & immediately unmask the Luke imposter & get Tony Geary out of the loony bin & back in Port Chuckles!
Hated all the Sonny/Carly krap. Enjoyed the Quartermaines, but killing AJ was unforgivable. Time for a new head writer!
Final word the end of the Q’s all done by JFP & Guza every death every write out so blaming RC for it is really stupid he brought AJ back from the dead a stupid move. If you are DEAD stay that way. I am not a big fan of most of his writing but the destruction of the Q’s did not happen on his watch.
I absolutely loved every single second of the episode, fantastic job by all involved!!!
I was so thrilled that Leslie Charleson’s Monica was allowed to be the driving force of the episode, proving again what a treasure She has been over Her years on MY all-time favorite show, and that includes daytime and prime-time… It was so beautifully done from the opening to the final scene, and I have been a Fan for all My 50 years… It was NOT Frank and Ron Who wiped out the Quartermaine clan, rewrote the history of the Vets, ie: Laura, Rick Webber, etc… That was all done during the Jill Phelps/Bob Guza/Brian Frons reign of terror!!! WE life-long Fans remember the true histories of Our beloved characters, and are greatful that Frank and Ron have restored the rich history that the previous regime totally threw out the window… If they had not all been fired when they were, We would not even be talking about “GH” today, as it too would have been cancelled… I also loved the way that 3 of the 4 Carlys were brought back to reminisce with Sonny, amazing and the chemistry between Sarah Joy, Tams, and Maurice was right on point as though they had never left… I for one loved the episode, and was very impressed with how well it all fell into place, perfectly… I watched it when it aired on ABC, and two more times because I enjoyed it THAT much… As for Jason not being among the Q’s there to great AJ on His journey, is because I suspect that He is most definitely still alive and will soon be recast… We know that Steve Burton is that hack Jill Phelps’ dear Friend, and has no intentions of coming back to “GH” so I am anxious for a decent good Actor being cast as Jason Quartermaine, NOT Morgan, and having lost His Jason Morgan memories, and come to terms and learn what happened to Him after a drunken AJ ran Him into that tree… Again, BRAVO, job well done by ALL involved!!!
yes!!!!
I will join you with a BRAVO!!!!
((I don’t see RC/Team killing any one, they get frozen/cryonics..
they just need to be thawed out .. aha haaa ..
Actually, it’s BRAVI, all involved….plural. These guys are butchers not writers. They sit on their throne , wave their magic wand, and voila’ there goes another soap down the tubes.
Just made me miss Sarah Brown that much more. She’ll always be my favorite Carly. I can’t believe the continued destruction of the Q’s. I thought FV/RC would have more respect for the legacy of the show. Oh, Sonny, why are you still around? 🙁
I enjoyed the Carlys and all the flashbacks. The one who brought me to tears was Alan, even just from the back.
Are they going to have a special show every year until ABC cancel GH I can see 50 but 51 52 ect
Think positive. Hopefully GH will be on for many years to come..
about 20 minutes plus was MIA… due to Barack Obama
that being said… the one stand out.. was seeing… My lovely.. Felicia, Mac, uber HOT Kevin, and Lucy
i’ll catch the three Carly’s : hopefully, on YouTube
it’s just a crying shame…. mind numbing : brain fart : catastrophic epic proportions… that AJ – A Quartermaine… is : GONE ???
respect for the fans : respect for the Serial : mind the history
the one thing that boggles… and IS no surprise…
Anthony Geary’ Luke: the womanizer : skirt chaser : dare I say, viagra for naught
??? this is interesting? this is funny? a rib tickler… cause it’s Luke… its OK ?!?!
first Brit, then Kiki ( he can have dull), then Sam…
unbelievable… ?!?! Period .
Tracy : even when she figures Luke out… needs to search, for Joe Scully, 3rd
he’ll rise from the dead faster than Luke