General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Delivers Emotional Ensemble Cast Performance As Nathan Passes Away
In Tuesday’s mega-episode of General Hospital, the cast of the ABC daytime drama series was given some heartbreaking material from the writing team, and they delivered it in spades with a compelling five-hankies installment, which illustrated just why the show about to turn 55-year- old this April has some of the most powerhouse performers in television, and they are right there in Port Charles.
In story, Detective Nathan West (Ryan Paevey), while he made through surgery is still in critical condition from Faison’s (Anders Hove) bullet, while Griffin (Matt Cohen) tells the family they think they got all the fragments near his hear out, but they have to keep an eye on him very closely. This set the stage for heartfelt goodbye after goodbye as this was to be the final episode of Ryan Paevey, who clarified yesterday that he did indeed make the decision to exit the soap.
Courtesy/ABC
Kirsten Storms as Nathan’s wife Maxie, tried to be strong talking to her husband who had not woken up yet about their unborn child, and trying to keep a brave face while knowing deep inside he was slipping away from her. None more evident than when Maxie asks Dante (Dominic Zamprogna) to sit with Nathan for a few minutes while she gets some air.
Maxie heads towards the bathroom and we see her meltdown, while next she gathers herself together to go back in to sit in the hospital room with her dying husband. Dominic Zamprogna illustrated once again while he is one of the most understated and fine actors on the canvas, as he sits near his police partner, and thanks him for his courage in multiple life-saving situations. Dante knew in that moment he may lose his buddy.
Courtesy/ABC
Anyone who has a brother or a sister can relate to the heartbreaking scene brought to life by Michelle Stafford (Nina), as she sits by the brother she idolizes, and who took care of her and got her through her horrendous years before her coma, and after her coma.
Kathleen Gati, as Nathan’s mother, Liesel, who made so many wrong decisions, but for the right reasons trying to protect her son in the end from his father, Faison, was also poignant. At the end of the episode, Maxie sits alone with Nathan. He finally opens his eyes, and tells Maxie he loves her and flatlines.
Courtesy/ABC
But that was not all the emotional drama going at the hospital! Finn (Michael Easton) tried to convince Anna (Finola Hughes) to give their relationship a shot. Anna, who is trying to cope with the mess caused by her nemesis Faison, and her feelings for Finn, cannot allow herself to commit to a relationship with the good doctor as much as she desperately wants to. Finn tells her that it could be dangerous and messy but it’s worth a chance, so please give them a shot. Anna can’t, and walks away with tears filled in her eyes. Again, another fine performance by Finola Hughes.
Courtesy/ABC
Then, viewers finally got some answers as to the brain-mapping of twins Jason (Steve Burton) and Drew (Billy Miller), when Jason made his way into Faison’s room at the hospital. Faison told Jason how this whole plot began, because Jason had brain damage, and Faison’s mind control technique wouldn’t work on him. Faison mentioned that he learned of Dr. Maddox’s brain memory mapping technique, and how he came upon navy seal files of a Jason lookalike, Andrew Cain, and it was a happy and surprising coincidence!
Next, he tells Jason that his other son, Henrik delivered both Drew and Jason to Maddox for the memory swap procedure. Later, Faison handed Drew over to Helena, and Jason was supposed to die! However, Henrik double-crossed him and kept Jason. Faison then tries to strike a deal with the hit man when Jason asks where Henrik is. Faison admits he’s hiding in plain sight under an alias, and to ask his brother about it, because he knows more than he realizes.
Courtesy/ABC
Later, when Drew and Sam (Kelly Monaco) make it to General Hospital, Jason fills them in on what Faison said which puzzles Drew. Meanwhile, Peter (Wes Ramsey) looks to be covering-up and out maneuvering the people of Port Charles, as all roads seem to lead to Mr. August being Faison’s son.
So, what did you think of the death of Nathan West? Which goodbye scene was your favorite? What did you think of the performance of the cast?
What did you think of the explanation thus far of what happened to Jason and Drew? Comment below!
This was so sad but very well written and extremely well acted. Kathleen Gati , of course, shined with every action she took as Liesl. I don’t know if this episode qualifies to be on anyone’s Emmy rell but if it does, I hope every actor who was in yesterday’s episode submits his and her name. It would make a very tough decision for that so-called blue ribbon panel.
I absolutely love Kathleen Gati-a phenomenol actress in both comedy and drama! Kudos to Ryan Paevey and Kirsten Storms!
Kathleen Gati broke my heart!
Oh, James…we are kindred spirits….with a soft heart. To me, Liesl took her agonizing mother’s role off the charts. I did say, that her scene was Emmy-worthy…..
I felt her pain, as only a mother who has lost a child, can feel, tap and delve into.
Kathleen Gati is one of the most gifted thespian I have ever had the privilege of watching; in awe!!!!!
Absolutely, CeeCee! Kathleen Gati stole the show! No matter what emotions are required, this fabulously talented lady delivers without overdoing it! I absolutely adore the character of Liesl Obrecht and hope she will be on the proverbial warpath for her once-beloved Cesar’s scalp to avenge their son’s death! As I previously suggested, paired with Anna, these two could be Port Charles’ own “Dynamic Duo” to make Faison pay for all of his dirty deeds! (Oh, and Britta most definitely should get compassionate release from her prison sentence in order to attend her brother’s funeral service.)
I love Kathleen Gati and she is incredibly talented. I enjoy every minute of her on GH-yet at the same time always fearful they will kill her off or remove her, since they don’t really seem to value women-especially those over 50-on this show.
So right, Celia. What does this phenomenal actress need to do to get a nomination? Stand on her head and sing “Springtime for Hitler”? Wait…she could probably carry that off, too!
She will probably learn Nathan was never her son…switched at birth because of Faison and the reall Nathan is still out there-lol
An incredible actress who owns that character. Always delivers even more than is on the page.
With Nathan gone and her getting fired from the hospital, what is there left for Liesl to do? Take Franco’s scraps? She wasn’t even on his mini-guest list last week.
Liesl and Franco could have made for a truly interesting May-December romance…at least they had a lot in common as Port Charles’ resident pariahs.
Agree with everything you said. Kathleen was amazing. I am just worried now with Nathan gone if she will be written out. How about getting her involved with Sonny’s father, who is returning?
I cried during yesterdays episode. Everyone did an awesome job. You could just feel Maxies anguish. Will miss Ryan. Nathan grew on me as time went on and the actor himself added sparkle to the role. Wish Ryan all the best.
I can’t see Dr. O leaving her grandchild to-be. She, Nina and Maxi might bond now as family…and it should be interesting when they find out Heinrich is Nathan’s brother. He’ll be facing some femme fatale wrath…with Anna (who is probably his mother) on the other side.
Kirsten Storms was the best she’s ever been. Kathleen Gati always delivers — her scene with Anna was powerful. Wish they threw in a sympathetic scene between Liesl and Finn.
For the first time, Lulu has no parental figure to lean on as Luke, Tracy and now Laura are all gone.
Parking Lot Peter is still flat. Hard to decipher what Faison was saying. And was there no money in the budget for Mac & Felicia? They’ll probably show up today and pretend they were there the full time.
Beautifully done; hated it.
Please come to the Bold and The Beautiful! Talented eye candy is always welcome! Thorne’s long lost son? A new guy in town!?
Actually he’d make a great Thomas Forrester…but he doesn’t want to remain in soaps. He has his own jewelry line and he’s interested in action films. Believe he’s throwing his hat into the ring for those and other type movies…which is why he chose to leave GH.
Michelle Stafford’s performance as Nina…. wow…. Really made you feel all of the feels. I think everyone did a fantastic job with this storyline.
Actually, I wanted to smack her——Liesl and Maxie were so effective and genuine in their respective portrayals of grief and Nina just felt like her usual intrusion into other people’s scenarios. I know she considered Nathan her bro, but her spiel was just so self-serving…and then when she went on about how he turned out to be a good guy despite growing up in privilege, I thought, whoa….talk about reverse snobbery!!! As if! At least one saving grace to Nathan’s exit is to never have to hear Nina calling him “Jay” over and over again….drove me up a wall.
Agreed!
What would had made me finally like Nina…if she jumped in front of Nathan and taken the bullet instead!!!!
They actually grew up together…his first name is James he didn’t become Nathan until he was an adult
Thank you, jimh!…..that would have worked for me!!! Instead we were subjected to the latest opportunistic chance for histrionic Nina to take a chomp out of the old Port Charles scenery….she just had to make this tragedy all about her!!!! If Maxie had put on the same attention-seeking show of shock and grief, it would have been understandable since she is Nathan’s widow, after all, but in comparison to Nina, she was grace under pressure—-beautiful and dignified in her expressions of sorrow! Ditto for Dr. O…..although I did appreciate her snappy, snarling takedown of Lulu ala Dante….I hope we shall be seeing more of both Obrecht’s “mama bear” and “loaded for bear” sides emerging in the coming days! No matter, Kathleen Gati will be superb…she always delivers Liesl’s lines with the proper amount of emotion and intensity….the sign of a true professional!
I agree Shay, Nina was so annoying! Stafford gets so little to chew on, she saw this as a rare opportunity to shine but it was the wrong time and of course, Nina is the wrong character for her!
I agree, Katherine Evans. Her portrayal of the grieved sister was spectacular. We knew the incredible brother/sister bond they had from the beginning. He was so sweetly protective of her and she adored him. And, she too, was very protective of him. One of the best brother/sister relationships ever on GH. I loved how, even after finding out they were actually cousins it never broke their sibling bond.
The way Nina handled it (and the way Michelle played it) was perfect. She was somber but contained. She respected Maxi as his wife…knowing it was Maxi who would get priority when it came to sitting with him and then Maxi who got priority when he passed. Though her own heart was breaking..she remained behind. And then, when she went over to Maxi and thanked her for loving her brother…ugh…broke my heart.
That scene where she finally let forth her grief and collapsed outside of Faison’s room was devastatingly poignant. Chills…
Kudos to all (I’m still recovering from the loss…) 😉 🙁
What would have been more appropriate is if Nathan’s REAL sister (aka, Britt) had been given a day pass to visit her dying brother so she could say “So long, farewell, auf wiedersehen, goodbye!”
Always enjoyed Ryan’s portrayal. It was easy, comfortable, and understated—stiff worked for me. I especially liked the pained looks during the Ass Man Landers story (yes, I too heard “ass” every time–it allowed me to enjoy the story more), which I found oddly endearing as the makeshift placeholder that it was to carry on in Kirsten’s absence. A solid performer, another one of Mark Teschner’s finds, I’m sure. As an aside, as we look to possibly fill the void, can we please keep Frank from any more parking lot casting decisions? Given how appealing (read sexy, as well as capable) Valerie was during the aborted Christina-Parker story line, how about promoting Officer Spencer? Again, use what you’ve got, rein in the bloated cast and leverage your history.
I agree with all of that. Valerie has been underused and mishandled since the beginning and she is just one powerful storyline away from becoming a beloved character. She’s a Spencer for God’s sakes, so there’s no excuse not to expand her role, but what can we expect from a show that dismisses characters that are not only important to the show, but anchor the show, are the center of the show, like Laura? Bobbie and Laura should’ve been guiding the whole damn family, and that awful affair with Dante never would’ve happened. I loved her in the Christina-Parker story and thought maybe she would even fall for Christina for real which would’ve been a very welcome triangle in my eyes, and a great story that would help reintroduce Val to the canvas. There’s many things they could do, like show us who her father was.
As for Ryan, his acting never seemed to improve and he made me even miss Spinelli which I thought was all but impossible, but hopefully his exit will help Nina to exit as well since she’s still not gelled into the canvas, and maybe we can see more of Dr. O while she mourns her son’s loss, because Ms. Gati is also a joy to see on screen, in my humble opinion. By the way, if it was Ass Man Landers, everyone would be all over that story for obvious reasons, lol. I too wish they would tighten up that cast and get rid of producers that enjoy parking lot pimping/hiring.
@Dante Williams…To say Nina “has not gelled into the canvas” is a true understatement, indeed, and I share your hopes that this purely superfluous creature shall finally be sent packing from Port Charles! I also agree that Kathleen Gati is an absolute joy to behold anytime she graces the GH canvas…no matter what is asked of her, she handles it with the greatest of aplomb! As for the necessity of Val’s return, that is where we do part company. Given Dante’s tragic loss of his policing partner, it would hardly be appropriate to foist this near-homewrecking chippy in blue back in his presence just when he is at his most vulnerable….plus Lulu is already between a rock and a hard place for the part she played in this disastrous scenario, so she cannot afford this distraction either! Given these circumstances, it would hardly provide a realistic opportunity for the Spencers to welcome Val into the family fold at this time. (Especially since we’ve just been told loud and clear that this legacy clan apparently no longer holds a place of importance in Port Charles what with its iconic matriarch being shipped off to Paris!) Lastly, I echo your call for a much-abridged cast (of never-ending newbies, FOF club members and parking lot pickups!) Time to get back to the basics that made GH great!
I Completely Agree!!!!
Agree with everything you said Reed.
I’ve mentioned Valerie sporadically; she’s a gorgeous model who can act as well…they bring her on and then…nothing! Complete wasted opportunity. First, we STILL don’t know who her father is. How ludicrous was it for them never to explore that??? She was never embraced by the Spencers…granted…her affair with Dante would be, ummm, a “stumbling block” to her and Lulu bonding. 😉 But Bobby? Carly? Lucas? They just dropped the entire story/character. I also loved her with Kristina IF they were to make her bi. Not a big Krissie/Parker fan.
I’ve also entertained the fact that maybe she’s Aunt Stella’s ex daughter. Maybe he wound up with Valerie’s mom? Could be interesting…
Oh, where we differ is I actually like Peter/Heinrich. Wes’s style…just has a cool vibe. Kinda slinks…like a cat….
Rebecca, I’m not opposed to Wes either, he’s doing a good job and has a nice screen presence. Too bad he was tagged early on as both Laura’s (Wright) boyfriend and Frank’s infamous parking lot hire. Neither serves him well, as we’re all hyper-sensitive to the casting decisions since Rebecca Budig’s abrupt departure and Steve’s return, and more recently, Genie’s shabby treatment. Keep giving us stories and performances like this week and all will be well…but not forgotten, of course. We’re watching you FV! But more importantly, we should be watching GH. So good!
Rebecca1/Reed…agree about Nathan’s time at GH. It was nice to see him grow as actor during this time. Coincidentally I just saw Dee Wallace in a “Murder She Wrote.” Touched by her performance as Luke’s sister and Valerie’s mother in the Fluke story.
Always felt it was a wasted opportunity to expand the Spencers. Seems the writers didn’t know what to do with Valerie after Dee’s character died. To make things worse they made her the “bad girl” that put her affair with Dante in motion. All the while Lulu did her thing, and damn everybody else because she knows best…just like her article re: Nathan/Maxie/Faison), Sadly the opportunity for Val may have passed.
I think we’re in the minority, Reed. Literally, I’m not sure if ANYONE here likes Wes other than you and I!
Okay…HERE’s where we disagree! 😉 I wasn’t upset at Rebecca Budwig’s departure. Found her boring…she’s the one character (newbie) that really was out of place for me. Didn’t like her with Nicolas; didn’t like her with Finn. Much prefer Anna and Finn and will probably hate when Hayden comes back with the baby…
Rose: I don’t think the opportunity for Val has passed. Unfortunatley they don’t seem to want to give her one and I can’t figure out why. Gorgeous, can act, had a great rapport with Dante, Dillon, Curtis and Kristina. And…who is her father!!!!??? I still think it’s Aunt Stella’s ex.
Rebecca1…Add me to your minority. I kinda like Peter/Heinrich. He’s not just another walk on.
As for Val, if you want to keep the Q’s alive and follow the Charles Street/mayor story, another possibility would be her mom/Dee having a relationship/marriage with Mary Mae Ward/Edward Q’s grandson from years ago. Unfortunately, they just don’t make Edwards and Lila’s anymore.
Rebecca and Reed, I’ll stand with you and say I like Wes Ramsey. But I don’t understand the “parking lot” references at all. What is that referring to? I even tried googling and couldn’t shed any light on why he’s being called “Parking Lot Pete”?
Haha…welcome to the Peter/Heinrich club! Our numbers here are growing…we’re up to four! 😉
The story goes that Wes was taking Laura Wright (they’re dating) to work and they ran into Frank in the parking lot, I believe. They started talking and a few months later Wes was offered the role.
Soap Opera Digest 11/10/17 issue, Wes recounted his chance meeting with Frank while dropping Laura Wright off for work one day and several months later it led to the role of Peter. Hence, Frank’s parking lot hire (makes for good copy). Purists feel strongly that Frank has overtly made over GH into something unrecognizable by foisting his former OLTL writers and actors onto us. Those folks have the misfortune of being labeled “friends of Frank,” or FOF. Perception is reality, and we’re a tough crowd, so in wanting the best for our show we can be a little unforgiving. Wes is bearing the brunt of the anti-Frank sentiment, plus being Laura’s boyfriend, and for good measure, there’s the bloated cast theory. Introducing a new contract player as you ready to bump an icon to recurring makes for some tough sledding.
For those of us with law enforcement and first responders family members, who have faced these situations IRL, this was very hard to watch. Ryan Paevy’s sweet smile as he faded away was heartbreaking. I suppose interviews with RP about the ‘last of seeing Nathan for now’ means he will return in dream sequences nearer the birth of his and Maxie’s baby–or as a ghost ala Stone.
The look on Valentin’s face as he watched a devastated Nina showed that he was at least indirectly responsible for Nathan’s death. At least that’t what a hissing Faison implied.
Things are beginning to bubble for February in Soapland!
Everyone involved did a beautiful job! I had to let go of the anger I feel about the Genie Francis situation in order to really be able to appreciate the fine performances that these other wonderful actors were giving in such an emotionally sad story.
Haven’t watched today’s episode yet, but I hope someone gets to really beat Faison to a bloody pulp (not the actor, of course). I’m sure people will be standing in line.
Good for you. Genie will be just fine.
Dont kill nathan west off the show
Always strong performances from GH thesps, but who really can make sense of this whole Fason plot? Or wants to?
I love a strong emotional arc and this day delivered.
Terribly sad for the three women in Nathan’s life, who now
have to live without him in theirs. Not to mention Dante,
who lost a friend & partner… Amy will also be heartbroken.
And don’t forget, Britt, Fanny! Hopefully, she shall soon return to Port Charles to mourn her bio-brother’s loss, as well!
@Shay…Unfortunately I did forget Britt, due to her absence…
Although, I always felt he and Nina had a closer more loving
bond. Regrettably Kathleen Gatti/ Liesl, DID NOT get enough
air time to grieve… Her character deserves so much more, she
belongs at the hospital where she was meant to be. This show
has the potential to be GREAT…Considering it has a fistful of
Exceptional actors, they should be utilized respectfully.
I don’t know, Fanny, I felt that Britt and Nathan really bonded over their shared difficulties—-even embarrassment—-in coming to terms with having the infamous Dr. O. as their mother…it put them in a relatable situation only the two of them could have understood. For me, Nina was always about her own neediness and possessiveness of Nathan as belonging to her…yet, as Officer West became more well-rounded and mixed with others in Port Charles, his previous links to the Reeves family seemed much more tenuous and unimportant. But I absolutely agree that the always magnificent Kathleen Gati was not given enough time to shine in the spotlight as Liesl….to lose her son so tragically after suffering through a lifetime of sacrifices and secrets in order to keep him safe was totally heartbreaking and deserved much more emphasis in this storyline.
The story’s not over yet, Fanny. I think (hope) we’ll see a lot more of Dr. O…bonding with Maxi and Nina…we haven’t seen the last of Olbrecht’s grief or wrath.
Seems changes are happening at the being of a new year and full moon. Sorry to see Ryan leave. And good luck to him. Can’t blame him for wanting to see what else is out there. Just wish that he didn’t have to die in case the writers want to bring him back.
This has also been a double hit for GH since the Genie news. But maybe, maybe there will be a re-think on this decision. Hope so. Especially with outcry of the fans who are upset about losing her and how it went down storywise.
Then there is Mellissa Egan from Y&R. I don’t have any emotional attachment to her character, but I wish her well.
I think the ensemble cast did a great job. Every one of them. It felt more like what you would expect from GH. Special kudos to Maxie, Dr. O, and Nina.
Liked Nathan .. Too bad he will not be on GH no more!!
🙁
Don”t like it one bit !!! They ended his character much too soon!!!!
I didn’t cry..
Nathans death was sombre as it should have been.
Too much talking for me, I did FF some of it.
I did not FF;
Faison’s (Anders Hove)
Michelle Stafford (Nina)
Kathleen Gati (Liesel)
they were outstanding BRAVO!
They were the best of the episode.
I do not want Faison to leave!! I want to keep him, forever!!
He is the best of the best BRAVO!
I am excited for the Drew story, what he knows and how it will be brought out it will by far be the best of upcoming stories..
The Sam, Jason junk needs to go away, it is too stale and boring to even waste time with it, it’s a SNOOOOOZER !
Jason needs to be backburned for at least a year.
Ryan is free to grow to explore to become much more than soap Nathan.
there is a future out there, go get it!!
Last;
Nathan died with a smile on his face, that was a good thing.
su000, we are agreeing yet again–scary!
I did not cry either. Nathan seemed like an all around good guy, but I never invested much emotion into his character.
He is beautiful to look upon and seems nice.
He’s the guy in high school whose yearbook is filled with these type of signatures–“You seem like a nice guy, wish I could have gotten to know you better.”
Really, it felt like watching Superman die. Therefore, his death did not feel real to me. Superman always comes back.
Thank you, Harry! I experienced the same lack of emotion regarding this character’s death. He came, he went, whatever! Although I have nothing against the actor who portrayed Nathan, I found the Valentino-esque proportions of grief expressed by so many women—and a fair number of men, too!—over this character’s passing and RP ‘s departure awfully OTT. He willingly chose to leave for greener pastures and I wish him well, so that is hardly worth whipping oneself into a frenzy of tears and sorrow. Peavey’s rabid fanbase can still follow him elsewhere…it’s not as if he’s fallen off the face of the earth!!!!
Harry and Shay, It was not, necessarily, the “death” of Nathan which has wrung people’s hearts…..but, the superb acting by everyone involved in the “death” scene…. even Amy, for once, wasn’t annoying. As I said on another site, Kathleen’s , ” Mein liebchen und mein Sohn”, tortured invocation did me in—heavy-hearted—shattered…that’s all Liesl needed to say….Then there was Kirsten/Maxie—–she must have tapped something so painful within her core for rendering such an outstanding performance. She was in a fog—almost robotic, but for the tears streaming down her cheeks…
And, albeit neither of you is a fan of Nina ( LOL), she was his true sister—they did grow up believing they were siblings—the love they shared remained the same—her grief was authentic—Britt did not really know Nathan, as a sibling.
I, for one, will miss Ryan/Nathan. But, I echo your feelings, Shay…..we will survive, LOL, and yes, best of luck to him!!
What stories from here-on-in, will be worth watching? Alas, I am not too happy with Finn and Anna–not as a couple. I wish Rebecca Budig would come back with a ready-made-baby…..they were great together.
The other option is Sonny and gang….the only good thing is seeing Max from Barney Miller ( enjoy the reruns).
The Big Bad Boogeyman is dead: Ding! Dong! Genie is gone—what do we look forward to? There’s always Nathan’s unborn baby—Peter will emulate his father, and with a rapacious hand takes a hold of the family ‘fruit’?
Yes, CeeCee, the performances were above the usual standard…..though that was not at all out of the ordinary for Miss Gati…she always delivers and I do want to see more, more, more of her superbly portrayed Liesl—-sad, bad or whatever!—-in the wake of her son’s murder! Kirsten’s Maxie was also extremely effective without being too much…she’s really still in shock and only coming to terms with her loss now, so I trust we shall be in store for many more moving moments with her. As for Nina, I simply cannot handle this character’s OTT tendencies which are always bubbling just below the surface, lying in wait for the opportunity to “tour de force” it up! For this character to behave so overwrought beyond even that of Nathan’s widow and mother during this tragedy just seemed so self-centered and indulgent…and apparently, that instance of stealing the spotlight is not enough for this scenery-chewer if Friday’s episode was any indication…seems now we’ll have to suffer through her badgering the poor, grieving Maxie non-stop through her entire pregnancy, not to mention the uncomfortable possibility that once again Nina shall be fixating upon/coveting another’s unborn child??? Please spare us a repeat of those theatrics! Oh, and could someone, anyone, just scream back at her when she is lamenting her “Jay’s” passing that “He was your cousin, not your brother!” (I mean, it’s now been what, a few years since Nathan’s maternal parentage was revealed? Well past time to get a grasp on the situation!) Finally, let’s just reserve the rubber room for this showboating she-me and be done with it already! As for Faison….is he really gone from the earthly bounds of the Port Charles hemisphere??? Say it ain’t so, CeeCeeGirl! For GH to be down two larger-than-life villains (Cesar and Helena…) in the past year is unfathomable, especially when the “second-generation” of mad miscreants looks to be far less than impressive in their quest to follow in the frightening footsteps of their elders. Needless to say, I’m so not jazzed at that prospect, nor any others foreshadowed on the horizon…not Anna’s long-lost son, Sonny’s “Wojo” woes or Kevin’s sudden odd obsession with serial killers and their brains now that his lovely Laura has been exiled to Paris…and to think that GH had recently been on such roll!!!! It’s heading downhill fast….
Dooley noted Celia, Yes, the performances were compelling and beautifully done.
I found Dante to be the saddest because the actor is so understated. It’s the quiet interjected into the emotional reaction which usually gets to me. If a character is constantly yelling, screaming and emoting, then when they really have something to cry about, they leave me cold (see Aunt Stella). As I said somewhere before, Stafford finally won my approval the other day when she tried to offer comfort to Lulu. She stopped shrieking and posturing and suddenly, she seemed like a real live human being who was experiencing abject grief. But my admiration for Stafford was alas, short lived as yesterday she reverted back to shrieking hoarsely. However, I just wanted you and Rebecca and others who admire Stafford’s acting, that I finally saw that yes, she can act when she makes the correct acting choice. I wish she’d do that more often.
What I don’t understand is why they had to break up Maxie and Spinelli to have her with Nathan only to kill him off? I realize it has been a few years, but it still does not make sense.
Um, because the actors playing both Spinelli and Nathan chose to leave the show…. and the show must go on for Maxie.
What exactly doesn’t make sense? The only other solution is to recast (which is challenging with popular actors) or to fire Kirsten Storms when her co-stars left the show. How would those options have been better?
So this guy is allowed to be snarky to my question and I my calling him on it is not approved?
Snarky? Ahhh, Chrystie, my love…..that ain’t nahtin’.
Oh, how I feel you!! There should always be a courteous answer, I know…..but, courtesy left with Lord Byron ( who really was not that courteous, LOL)…. might as well add levity to the ‘snarkiness’.
There are always options, Chrystie. You have a legitimate question. These actors sign a contract….when the end is ‘a-neering, they either renew, or not, or they may be given the boot…….no one is really permanent….. whimsy!!
Sometimes the show gets hit just as much as the actor…..and, we, the fans, are left wanting….
The writer could of replaced his role. This world is hard enough, let some good in the soap be. Nathan West character showed there is good! Now Maxie is a widow, another fatherless child will be born
and the BEST DAYTIME DRAMA, GOES TO (GENERAL HOSPITAL)!!!!
KUDOS, TO ALL ACTORS AND ACTRESSES 😉
I return from an extended leave and this is what I find. What a mess! Nathan is gone. Good bye, Ryan, I hope you find what you seek, in your young life.
I agree with all those who are cheering KG on. She deserves an award much more than some who have been nominated. She is wonderful, as a person and as an actress.
Genie, I will wait for you. You are the best, my dear.
That is not the only mess. My name mentioned in vain here? Toxic.
“Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t know you had the authority to judge me. Is Jesus hiring?”
“When you judge others, you do not define them, you define yourself.”
Let people opine and live.
I have learned in my old age that ‘silence is the most powerful scream.’ Have a calm life.
Welcome back, Francesca!…Both you and your words of wisdom have been much missed! (I sincerely hope your ears were not burning during your absence…however, please do know that there were those of us who mentioned you with only the kindness, affection and respect you deserve….) I echo your sentiments regarding the phenomenal Kathleen Gati and incomparable Genie Francis….these two ladies have certainly raised the bar of excellence for all those acting on the GH canvas, and it’s a true shame that neither has received the accolades and screentime that their considerable talents should be commanding from their showrunners and peers. Seems that if an over-50 female is not willing to degrade herself with conduct unbecoming a mature woman, then there is precious little space available for her in Port Charles these days! Save for Finola Hughes’ Anna, there’s really no one left in that particular category with any sort of class and dignity of which to speak, given Laura’s recent, abrupt departure and Liesl’s highly-sporadic appearances. So much for calm lives……they no longer exist there….as for here, that remains to be seen.
Thank you, #Shay, for you welcoming comment.
Civility has never hurt anyone. It does seem to have gone out of style. General Hospital included, my dear. Finola is definitely the definition of class, as is her character.
I do hope she stays for an unlimited time and for the people in power not to pull a Genie, whom I cherish, on us. Cosi’ e’ la vita.
As for Burton, I have not been a fan of Jason since he became Sonny’s side kick. I have been watching for a long time, and one word has stuck in my mind. From the very indelicate mouth of Edward Quartermaine, “He’s a deviant”. I always found humor with everything he said, even when serious.
Have you ever visited Italy? I have gone back more times than I can count, and the appeal is always the same, especially Capri. What a wonder! I see something new in the Grotta Azzurra ( Blue Grotto)each time I visit. Beauty all around.
Arrivederci.
My dear Francesca….Ci incontriamo di nuovo! Please excuse my delay in responding to your gracious post!…As with so many things you have stated in the past, your thoughts on the subject of “civility” are spot-on! Alas, so much that speaks of class these days is considered passe’ by far too many….which is why I always admire your own “stylish” take on the many issues we broach here…both of the soap and life variety! I do hope you’ve not been dissuaded from commenting on a regular basis by those hooligans who seem intent upon holding court here….if good people like yourself allow such rude behavior to drive one away, then it’s simply playing into the hands of those who seek to dominate these threads with only their own thoughts and ideas! As for Anna and Laura, you are singing my tune….I adore both of these regally-composed characters and the lovely ladies who portray them! In fact, Finola is about the only show in town for me right now, save for the hideously-underused Kathleen Gati’s Liesl! Having said that, what happened to Genie was an absolute travesty, and I still hold out hope that the brouhaha her situation has whipped up will be enough to eventually return Laura to Port Charles. Whilst I harbor no ill-will for Steve Burton and his Jason, I prefer him well shot of SonnyBoy… This Q’s always-outspoken grandfather was certainly correct in his estimation of his grandson’s unacceptable lifestyle with that mob menace! How I miss that conniving old rascal, Edward, and his take on all things GH! In terms of my European exploits, alas, no, I’ve never had the pleasure of visiting the beautiful homeland of your birth…but I still savor its enchanting qualities in many forms thanks to the magic of its music, television, cuisine and many expatriates living in this country with whom I’ve had many wonderful moments. I’m still at the point where I need to spend some massive time in all the off-the-beaten-path places I previously missed in the glorious UK and I also have a huge soft spot for the Scandinavian culture, as well, so that is another location on my travel wish list! At any rate, it was a delight to hear from you once again, and I hope you realize how much your opinions are valued by your friends here at MFSoaps…when the opportunity permits, I certainly look forward to more of your wise words and observations, “signora bella!” Until then, abbi cura!
P.S….Buon San Valentino!!!!!!!
The most amazing episode I’ve seen in a very long time. This is why GH is the best. The cast performance was brilliant. Kirsten Storm delivered a powerhouse performance as Maxie. Kathleen Gati and Michelle Stafford was amazing. Kudos to the writers,,,, they should have let Nina go in on Faison.
So may I get an honest response? What brought this about? Why did Ryan choose to leave?
Supposedly Ryan Pavey got it a job making movies for the Hallmark Channel. I assume if the truth be known that GH could’ve kept him if they would’ve given him time off to make movies. Though he hasn’t said that he just said he wanted to go on and spread his wings or whatever. However I doubt if that GH gave him an offer or he could do both. And how stupid to kill such a character off in my opinion. They could’ve given him all kinds of storylines where he went off to get further training or whatever and in that time found another actor to replace him. So I wrote love watching RyanI feel the character is very important, and hate to see another fatherless baby born. I loved watching the interaction of Maxi and her husband and see her grow as a person. This could’ve been accomplished with another actor. Although Ryan has done a great job in the role, no one is irreplacable if they want to leave. It would’ve been very hard to replace him but possible. I will miss the actor and the character so much.
Actually, Chris…Ryan doesn’t appear to want to be a soap actor anymore. He’s interested in action films and has said he’s looking for work in that area. As said, he’s also been in some Hallmark films (LOL..quite the departure from action films…but he’s diversified!) and has said he’d be open to doing more for that channel.
He also has his own jewelry line. Not sure if he’s hired anyone yet but he designs and crafts it himself. Time consuming…
So, it doesn’t seem he wanted the option of being recurring or being able to have time off. I have a feeling he looked at GH as a training ground and was ready to take flight.
I really will miss Nathan, He was a good actor. and very nice on the eyes. He will definitely be missed. was anxious to know how Maxie and Nathan would be as parents.
WOW, WOW, WOW…this is what good writing and acting is all about…so character driven and bravo to everyone at GH involved in this story line…
Kristen and Ryan were amazing. Hard to hear some of Faison’s dialogue but I liked the scenes with him and Jason. Nina was way over the top! I wish and hope Maxie pounds Cindy Lou Who into the ground!
@Timmm…I see you got the “Dr. Seuss Memo!” Lol…..
General Hospital folks are so stupid to get rid of Nathan and Laura. Nathan’s character was a balancer among so many nuts and to Laura would have made a great Mayor and I am sure the writers had something good for her. For GH to have Alexis to run for Mayor is so dumb since she is a recovering Alcoholic, Moll Girl, flighty but she is a great lawyer but she needs to stay in the background since we know she and Julius will get back together.
Great work GH for shooting yourself in the foot when it comes to your ratings to stay on ABC who knows this show is hanging by a thread. 🙁
Exactly, Nik….The notion of substituting the phenomenally-flawed Alexis in place of the morally-upstanding Laura in the mayoral race is wrong in every way possible! I truly do not understand the showrunners’ obvious desire to highlight this obnoxious, sanctimonious character over much more interesting and substantial women in Port Charles…At best, she’s a hot mess of a knock-off Cassadine with no real historical ties to Port Charles, so why she is given so much screentime is beyond me…especially since as you say, she’ll be back to her same old over-exaggerated erotic escapades with her abusive gangster ex before you know it…hardly a good female role model no matter how you cut it …..and yet some still spin her serious shortcomings as so-called suitability for purpose. Go figure….
You just never know when one of your favorites from a soap opera will pop on TV on another show! Such was the case on the Tuesday, October 6 episode of the number one daytime game show in America, The Price is Right on CBS!
Hudson West, who has played Jake Webber on General Hospital from 2016-2019, and then has been recurring since 2021 and used very sporadically in story, was in attendance in the audience for a taping of The Price is Right. He wound up selected as one of the players and eventually won a car.
Here;’s what happened: West bid $3,000 on a five-night stay at the Bandon Marina Inn in Oregon. His opponent, Charles, bid $4,550, which was too high, so West got the chance to play the game “Any Number” for a prize.
Photo: ABC
The drama became intense as West picked the numbers needed to win a new car with host Drew Carey presiding over the game play. After he won, Hudson fell to the floor in shock before getting up and running in excitement towards his new car!
Later in the show, Hudson got the opportunity to spin the wheel to try to advance to the “Showcase” round, but his opponent named Jenny spun a higher number to qualify, ending West’s run in the game. But, he came away with the new car.
Apart from his role on GH, TV fans have seen West on NCIS: Los Angeles, Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and Grace and Frankie to name but a few.
You can check out what happened when Hudson won a car on The Price is Right on the video below.
Now let us know, what did you think of Hudson’s big win? Do you hope that GH finally has Jake back in story since he is the son of Elizabeth and Jason? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
The Tuesday, October 6 episode of General Hospital kicked-off with Serena Baldwin (Kelly Kruger) literally turned upside down and stuck on the Quartermaine roof in front of Jason (Steve Burton), who came to her rescue.
This marked the first time that Kelly Kruger and Steve Burton shared any substantial screen time together since Kruger debuted on the ABC soap opera back in July.
In story, Serena was trying to save the peregrine falcons’ nest that Tracy (Jane Elliot) wanted exterminated. Jason agreed to help Serena relocate the nest to the nature preserve. Said relocation would be put in the preserve adjacent to the property, think where Ava (Maura West) and Drew (Cameron Mathison) buried Brennan (Chris McKenna)!
Later, when they returned to the Quartermaine mansion, the two have more banter where Serena told Jason they should both check themselves for ticks. Serena has done a full body check in the bathroom, but then asks Jason to go through her hair and look for any signs of ticks. Clearly, one or both may have ticks prompting suspicion if they wind up at GH with Dr. Isaiah Gannon (Sawandi Wilson) as their doctor who previously treated Ava for the tick stuck in her hair!
Courtesy/ABC
ROMANCE SWITCH-UPS
While initially General Hospital fans suspected that the character of Serena was being brought back to the canvas in the form of Kruger as a love interest for Michael Corinthos (Rory Gibson), in recent weeks and in admission by Tanisha Harper, it appears that GH is teasing a Michael and Jordan romance. The two have been spending more time together at Aurora, and Michael helped her get accepted into the burn clinic in Germany to treat her facial scars from the car accident.
Meanwhile, after Steve Burton returned to GH after his extended hiatus this June, it was clear that the writers were heading in the direction of a Britt (Kelly Thiebaud) and Jason break-up.
Eventually, a few weeks ago, the duo called it quits after Anna (Finola Hughes) tried to kill Britt, and Jason would not help Britt press charges against his friend, who was suffering from delusions after being mentally gaslighted by Cullum (Andrew Hawkes) and Sidwell (Carlo Rota) and company.
So, what did you think of the scenes between Jason and Serena on today’s GH? Do you think Kelly and Steve have on-screen chemistry that you would be open to be seeing how it plays out? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since Van Hansis made his debut as the recast Lucas Jones on General Hospital. It was back on October 4, 2024 that GH fans got their first look at the former As the World Turns (ex-Luke Snyder) favorite in his new soap role.
Hansis became the fifth actor to play the role of the adoptive son of the late Bobbie Spencer and Tony Jones, and the biological son of the late Julian Jerome and Cheryl Stansbury. Prior to Van, C.J. Thomason (2002–2003), Ben Hogestyn (2005–2006) Ryan Carnes (2004–2005, 2014–2020, 2024) and Matt Trudeau (2020–2021) had played the part.
When Van left daytime after As the World Turns sadly went off the air in 2010, it would be 14 years until he stepped back into the updated frenetic pace and grind of acting on a daily soap opera.
Photo: ABC
LUCAS CAME HOME TO PORT CHARLES
Since Lucas has been back in Port Charles, he fell in love with the late Marco Rios (Adrian Anchondo) who was murdered, moved into a new apartment with his current roommate (soon to be love interest?) Joe Fitzpatrick as played by Jonathan Bennett, has become best buds with the “Britch” Dr. Britt Westbourne (Kelly Thiebaud), and has found himself involved in multiple other storylines. However, now that Van is firmly implanted on GH, might Lucas get a leading storyline of his own? Stay tuned.
In the meantime, to acknowledge his two-year anniversary at General Hospital, Hansis shared via his Instagram a photo montage and some heartfelt “thank you’s’ and words. “Two years ago yesterday, Lucas Jones came home to Port Charles looking a little different. Looking exactly like me.” began Hansis.
“When I took on the role, I was told it would be a heavy recurring for a few months and then we’d see where it goes – being based in NYC at the time, I thought it would be a fun little gig that would bring me back to my old stomping grounds of daytime for a bit.”
Photo: ABC
GENERAL HOSPITAL HAS BEEN LIFE-CHANGING FOR VAN HANSIS
Next, the longtime New York-based actor confirmed he has now moved to Los Angeles as this new chapter of his life has unfolded, and how grateful he is that the show’s writers and producers have continually given more for Lucas to do.
Van explained, “But then they kept writing for me more and I fell in love with Lucas, and everyone around him (in front of and behind the camera). I wanted to stay a while and am so grateful I have. Being a part of GH these last two years has been life changing. Literally. My family and I are Angelenos now, I’ve made incredible new friendships and have been able to revisit old ones.”
The five-time Daytime Emmy-nominated actor concluded with, “Thank you Frank (Valentini, executive producer, GH), thank you Mark (Teschner, casting director, GH), for inviting me to the party. You throw a great one. ”
So, happy to know Van is sticking around General Hospital for some time to come? What has been your favorite Lucas Jones moment over the first two years of Van’s run? Let us know via the comment section below.
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