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GENERAL HOSPITAL: Max Gail Turns In Another Emmy-Worthy Performance As Mike’s Battle With Alzheimer’s Takes Its Toll

By Michael Fairman

Published

7 years ago

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Courtesy/GH

For any of us who have seen our loved ones deteriorate right before our eyes, due to the horrific affects of Alzheimer’s, and have been witness to their confusion, dementia, angry outbursts, frightened looks, and uncontrollable tears, yesterday’s episode of General Hospital brought with it a stark reminder of how this disease is a gut-punch to those afflicted and their family members.

For several months, GH viewers saw a bit less of Mike; played brilliantly by recent Daytime Emmy Supporting Actor in a Drama Series winner, Max Gail.  And smartly, the writers have taken the time to advance Mike’s condition …. as at this point he doesn’t recognize his son, his family, his friends, and more.  For Mike, he is living in the past spirally backward and downward.

When Dev (Ashton Arbab) and Josslyn (Eden McCoy) go to visit Mike at Turning Woods, it’s clear  how much he is suffering.  When Dev plays a checkers game with Mike it seems to calm him down, but when Sonny (Maurice Benard) enters, all hell breaks loose.  Mike thinks his son is actually one of their mortal enemies Joe Scully.

Earlier, at the Corinthos home, Michael (Chad Duell) sees that Sonny is considering entering his father in a clinical trial. Sonny says he knows it won’t cure the disease, but hopes the drugs in the trial can slow its progression.  In a key question, any family member needs to ask themselves, Michael asks Sonny to think first, if this is the man Mike would want to be?  Michael shares that Mike is no longer himself and sadly, there is no coming back from that.

All this becomes more poignant when Sonny sees first-hand how far Mike has slid.  Will Sonny be able to come to terms with losing Mike to Alzheimer’s?  How will he deal with it?  Gail’s partner in this entire storyline has been GH icon, Maurice Benard, who delivers poignant work throughout this story in very contained, emotional moments of deep hurt and pain, as Sonny watches the father he knew become lost in himself and to others.

Watch the key scenes below from yesterday’s GH below featuring Gail.  Then, let us know, do you think Max could end up in the running for another Daytime Emmy for his work?  Comment below.

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Love Max Gail. Also loved Ron Hale (?) in the role. I really miss our show. I miss “Cliff Hanger Friday” & super couples like Frisco & Felicia, Sonny & Brenda (my two favorite couples). Nowadays, we are hiring boyfriends in the parking lot and focusing on a boring teen scene.

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Max is wonderful and such a treat. It shows you how many other actors out there who used to have shows on TV are capable of this. I wish more would appear. GH has so much talent. It should be #1 BUT the stories struggle at times. These two kids were fabulous in their scenes with Max Gail. Kudos to the casting department!

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Max Gail is outstanding, sad to think there is only so long they can keep him on as the illness will eventually take Mike

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Max Gail should get another Emmy nod. As far as winning another Emmy, it will depend on who else will be in his category and what their reels contain.

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I definitely agree that Max Gai deserves an Oscar for his performance. I have watched many movies with Alzheimer’s as the focus (Iris, Away from Her, Still Alice) and his performance ranks with the best of them. It touches me deeply as my dear mother suffered from the terrible disease. Well done, Max.

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Oh yes, kudos to this wonderful actor. I should have known watching him years ago , on Barney Miller that his acting abilities would only grow, making him a great actor. He will be missed on GH when his time is up as Mike.

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@Violet…Hello! It’s been awhile, dear lady! ..Yes, Max’s charmingly obtuse Wojo was one of the highlights of “Barney Miller,” thus, “he” wears well to this day, albeit we are now (sadly) living in much more PC times than when his hilariously naughty show debuted. (It’s still oh-so-fun to watch when in a nostalgic mood for “the way things used to be”….Lol.) Hence although I have not kept up with his Alzheimer’s saga on GH as of late, I’ve no doubt that Gail’s portrayal of Mike hasn’t diminished even as his character’s capacities have…he really is that fine of an actor. At any rate, what I really came here to do is wish you a “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!” It was such a pleasure “getting to know you” in 2019, despite the fact that our penchant for too off-topic “conversations” was (understandably) cut short…hey, at least they were tremendously enjoyable whilst they lasted! (I do still miss them, though..) By the way, one final word about that particular movie which we are not allowed to discuss: I just noticed that it is now available to rent and/or own on Amazon…Hope Santa is aware so that he can leave it in your Christmas stocking!!!! Cheers!!!!!

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Hi Shay, ho,ho,ho! Guess what I got for Christmas, mostly thanks to you?. My gr.granddaughter asked me what I wanted and I for once had something to tell her, after reading your last reply. I just finished watching it and thoroughly enjoyed it. What a way to end the day. I could never figure out if Violet found out about the companion/daughter thing. I’d like to discuss it further, but Michael will have a cow. Hope your Christmas was really good, and your New Year even better.
I really enjoyed the Scrooge episode, did you see it?

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Oh, Violet….I’m DELIGHTED to know that you had a Merry Christmas and received what your heart truly desired! Bless your granddaughter for buying you the perfect gift. (So glad I could help out…you are most welcome! I had hoped that you would read my post in time for you to share that vital information with your own “personal shopper” and I agree it gave you a wonderful way to end your holiday!) Without going into too much detail about that divinely superb film whose name we dare not mention…(LOL): I believe that the Dowager Countess totally realized the “connection” to which you are referring, which is why she was promoting the matchmaking idea for Branson toward the end..Also, how about that beautiful Mary/Violet scene? It was my most and least favorite in the entire movie since it featured my two best-loved characters whilst broaching a totally tearjerking notion which I simply refuse to contemplate. (Without giving away the plot, I did detect an out for that storyline though…Seems “Dame Maggie’ slyly switched a few words in her lines at the last take in order to be more ambiguous…perhaps giving herself a bargaining chip should the rumored sequel come to fruition???) Okay…best be done with that off-topic-topic now…even though I do hear you on wishing that we could discuss it at length! Having said that, I will appreciate even this small mention of said subject as a special holiday treat from the moderators! (Although I have to admit that I’m still mystified as to why there was never an MF thread dedicated to the film’s fall release, huge box office numbers and subsequent news of its proposed sequel based upon that success, but then ours is not to wonder why…) At any rate, I’m thrilled to have played a part in the enjoyment of your holiday. Yes, mine was quite nice, too, thank you very much…just extremely hectic, still I wanted to quickly get back here to reply to your lovely message…it really made my day, because sharing and spreading joy is what Christmas is all about! Do take care and Happy New Year to you, too, dear lady! See you in 2020 on the GH threads where we will both absolutely, positively stay “on topic,” right???? (Nodding yes…in unison!!!!) By the way, I will definitely take a peek at Michael Easton’s much-praised “Scrooge” performance…I am so far behind on the soap that it took me a minute to realize what you meant…duh!!! (Especially since I just finished the BBC’s latest version of “A Christmas Carol” starring Guy Pearce, so I had that one on the brain….) Must be going…Later, Violet!!!!!

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General Hospital

GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob

Published

8 hours ago

on

August 3, 2026

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This week on all-new episodes of General Hospital, new and old motivations come into play with dangerous consequences. According to the just released GH video spoilers video for the week of August 3-7, a bailiff calls out, “All rise!”

Now it’s Isaiah (Sawandi Wilson) vs. Curtis (Donnell Turner), as the surgeon is suing the owner of the Savoy for assault that ruined is ability to operate. At the end of the day, which of these men has enough evidence against the other? Portia (Brook Kerr) is by Isaiah’s side, while Jordan (Tanisha Harper) is with Curtis.

Next, Lucy (Lynn Herring) has a plan to get the controlling shares of Deception away from Michael (Rory Gibson). She wants her daughter, Serena (Kelly Kruger) to seduce Michael. She tells her, “Pick out your most seductive suit.” Soon, we see Serena in her bathing suit at the Metro Court face to face with Michael.

Later, there is a small baggie containing three blue pills. Nina (Cynthia Watros) ask Willow (Katelyn MacMullen), “What did you do?” We also see Michael asking the same thing of Jacinda (Paige Herschell). Leading into this week, viewers know that Willow doesn’t want the former escort anywhere near her children, Amelia and Wiley. Is this how she stops her, or is Jacinda up to old tricks and wants to frame Willow? Remember when Jacindsa drugged Drew (Cameron Mathison)? Stay tuned.

Finally, in the pick-up from last Friday’s cliffhanger, an emotional Jason (Steve Burton) continues to tell Sonny (Maurice Benard) that he cannot work for him anymore. Sonny ask, “So that’s it? You’re Out?” We fade to black.

Take a look at the official GH spoilers for the week below.

MONDAY, AUGUST 3
Jason makes a sacrifice for Danny. Elizabeth becomes privy to a secret. Carly is touched. Valentin has a warning for Nina. Josslyn cautions Brennan.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 4
Brook Lynn and Chase celebrate a milestone. Trina gets an earful. Carly’s plan backfires. Curtis is skeptical. Michael is anxious about his family’s’ future.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5
Sonny wants answers. Ava is struck with inspiration. Curtis’ trial begins. Brook Lynn wrestles with a big decision. Lucy and Serena scheme.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 6
Sonny makes a stunning announcement. Serena makes her move. Willow faces a new threat. Isaiah takes the stand. Lucy questions Laura.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
Josslyn is taken aback. Ava courts a new ally. Jordan and Anna catch up. Isaiah vents to Lucas and Elizabeth. Michael questions Jacinda.

Check out the latest ABC promo for General Hospital entitled, “What Did You Do?” below.

Now weigh-in: Do you think GH is about to pair Serena with Michael? Is it curtains for Jacinda? Can anyone stop Willow once and for all, or make her pay for her crimes? What will Jason do without Sonny and the mob? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.

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General Hospital

‘General Hospital’ Fan Club Weekend 2026 (Photos)

Published

18 hours ago

on

August 2, 2026

By

General Hospital Fan Club Weekend brought out many of your favorites to the four day event; with the main cast gathering on Saturday, August 1. Fans near and far attended the weekend held this year at the Burbank Marriott Hotel. Whether it be the main cast event or the smaller more intimate events featuring two or three cast members a great time was had by all.

Some of the cast participating in the main cast event included: Cyrus Hobbi (Yuri), Gary James Fuller (James), Bradford Anderson (Spinelli), Viron Weaver (Wiley), Paige Herschell (Jacinda), Chris McKenna (Brennan), Josh Kelly (Cody), Kayden Brenna Tokarsi (Scout), Cassandra James (Terry), Laura Wright (Carly), Dominic Zamprogna (Dante), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane), Rick Hearst (Ric), Adrian Anchondo (ex-Marco), and Chloe Lanier (ex-Nelle).

In addition to, Van Hansis (Lucas), Cameron Mathison (Drew), Ryan Paevey (ex-Cassius), Easton Rocket Sweda (Leo), Maurice Benard (Sonny), Kristen Vaganos (Molly), Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis), Kate Mansi (ex-Kristina), Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth), Cynthia Watros (Nina), Kristina Wagner (Felicia) and more.

Take a look at some of the snaps from the main event arrivals below:

Photo: HutchinsPhoroi

GH’s Rick Hearst with on-screen daughter, Kristen Vaganos, plus Nancy Lee Grahn, and Kate Mansi.

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

GH’s Maurice Benard on-hand to meet the fans.

Photo: HutchinsPhoto.com

Jack Brennan in the house … Chris McKenna.

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

Adrian Anchondo, Van Hansis and Anchondo’s boyfriend, Days of Our Lives, Colton Little.

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

GH’s Josh Kelly and his gal, the former Nelle Benson of Port Charles, Chloe Lanier.

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

Who is James’ father? Not Cassius or Spinelli, actually. Actors Gary James Fuller, Ryan Paevey and Bradford Anderson!

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

One of General Hospital’s newest cast members, Kayden Brenna Tokarski attends her first GHFCW event.

Check out some more arrival images featuring: Laura Wright (Carly), Cassandra James (Terry), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane) and more in the gallery below.

Michael Fairman TV will be adding more images to this post in the day ahead.

So, were you glad to see so many of your GH favorites attending this year’s General Hospital Fan Club Weekend? Let us know via the comment section.

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General Hospital

Vincent Pastore of ‘Sopranos’ Fame and ‘General Hospital’s’ Maximus Giambetti Dies at 80

Published

2 days ago

on

August 1, 2026

By

Vincent Pastore, best known for his memorable role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s The Sopranos has passed away.

The veteran actor was found dead on August 1st in his home in the Bronx, New York. Pastore was 80-years-old. The cause of death is yet to be determined.

As well as his role on The Sopranos, many soap fans will recall he played multiple smaller roles on the beloved One Life to Live from 1995 and 2004. However, in 2008, he landed the short-term role as Maximus Giambetti on General Hospital.

PASTORE WANTED TO BE ON GENERAL HOSPITAL

Maximus was the mobster father of Sonny Corinthos’ (Maurice Benard) bodyguards: Max (Derk Cheetwood) and Milo (Drew Cheetwood)

According to Soap Opera Digest, Pastore told Soaps In Depth back in 2009, after appearing in a SOAPnet promotional campaign as a celebrity fan of General Hospital: “‘I’d love to be on the show. So they called up GH’s casting director (Mark Teschner) and Bobby (Robert Guza Jr. ex-head writer, GH) and they wrote me in!”

Pastore was a huge General Hospital fan from way back, who at one point told producers that he would watch the ABC soap opera while working in bars and nightclubs in the 70s and 80s.

Throughout his decades long career, Pastore appeared in films including: Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way and Men of Respect, The Jerky Boys: The Movie and the 1996 HBO TV movie Gotti.

In TV, besides The Sopranos, Pastore’s credits included: Law & Order, The Practice, Son of the Beach, Queens Supreme, Hawaii Five-0, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, plus the miniseries The Last Don II. Most recently, Vincent was a series regular on Gravesend and guest starred on Yellowjackets.

Pastore is survived by his daughter, Renee, son-in-law and granddaughter.

Share your remembrances and condolences for Vincent Pastore on his memorable role on ‘The Sopranos’ and his time on ‘General Hospital’ via the comment section below.

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

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