General Hospital
General Hospital’s Exec Prod Frank Valentini Talks On: Steve Burton Return, Rebecca Budig Departure, William deVry Status, and Co-Head Writer Change!
Photo Credit: JPI Studios
There are many changes happening right now behind the scenes at General Hospital. Already, there has been a new co-head writer put into place, and the bombshell news that fan favorite Steve Burton is coming home to Port Charles after his four-year stay in Genoa City, bringing along with him the million dollar question … will he be playing Jason Morgan, or someone else?
Add to the mix Rebecca Budig (Hayden) exiting the series, and William deVry’s (Julian) contract impasse, and things are definitely shaking out on the Daytime Emmy-winning drama series.
The man at the epicenter of it all is GH’s executive producer, Frank Valentini. We caught up with the head honcho at this week’s ABC TCA (Television Critics Association) all-star cocktail reception to get the low down on what to look for as we head into fall for some of your favorite characters, the comings and goings that will impact the show, and more.
Here’s what Frank offered up:
How do you feel about Jean Passanante’s decision to leave GH as co-head writer, and retire from writing soaps?
Photo Credit: Paley Center For Media
FRANK: I feel very, very sad. She sort of explained the circumstances of her life, and the timing for her was right. Her daughter is living in Europe, and she wants to be able to spend more time with her. Jean had worked hard for a really long time, and she wants to spend and have some time for herself. Being the head writer of a soap opera is an insanely demanding job. It’s never ending questions and headaches.
You now have promoted Chris Van Etten to co-head writer. What are your thoughts on that move?
FRANK: It’s exciting for me, because he used to be my assistant at One Life to Live. Chris is very bright, and knows and loves the show. He has been watching GH since he was 12-years-old. He just gets it. He gets GH, which is really exciting.
Do you think you have an interesting and intriguing creative balance between Shelly and Chris for the storylines moving forward on GH?
FRANK: Shelly is the head writer, and Chris is the co-head, so Shelly is going to sort of take all the stories we have in place now and move them forward. Chris will be there to support and help, and figure out plot-driven stuff and general direction. Then, they will start to write their own stories moving forward.
The big news, of course, is Steve Burton coming back to General Hospital. Is this something you were trying to make happen for awhile?
Photo Credit: JPI Studios
FRANK: When Steve left GH we were really sorry to see him go, but we knew it was a new opportunity for him, so we were excited for him. Steve and I have always stayed in touch, and we have seen each other at the Daytime Emmys. Of course, he has had a big year winning Outstanding Supporting Actor, and when he left Y&R he was thinking about coming back, and we were in touch, and we were able to make it happen. I think the most important thing for everyone to know and understand in regards to his return is that it changes the paradigm, and changes the dynamic of the show in such a way that it will create a lot more romance, a lot more intrigue, a lot more adventure, and all the stuff that you want from the show. And, as much as everyone wants to see everyone happy, they also want to see us mix things up, and that is what we are trying to do. We have some really interesting things that we are doing right now that are also mixing things up. The viewers are seeing Ava cross with Griffin (Matt Cohen), which is kind of cool. We just said goodbye to little Spencer (Nicolas Bechtel) on-air for another season, and now we will find out what impact his departure has on Kevin (Jon Lindstrom) and Laura (Genie Francis). Kirsten Storms (Maxie) is back on the show. Emme Rylan (Lulu) is back from her maternity leave, and Finola Hughes (Anna) is back from her vacation, and so it’s fun to have all the favorites back in the house.
Have you locked in, and decided on the storyline you are about to tell with Steve Burton back on the show? Many are predicting “The Tale of Jasons” story. The fans have some additional theories as well.
Courtesy/ABC
FRANK: We absolutely know what we are going to do. You can’t not know what you’re doing to do for several reasons: for business reasons, for what actor’s you are going to hire, and what kind of contracts you are going to put them under, and also for practical reasons in terms of getting the story written and laid out, and having it have a big pay-off.
Rebecca Budig wrapped-up her run as Hayden Barnes. Was it difficult for you to have to tell her she was exiting the show, when she is clearly a very popular star in the genre?
FRANK: It was really hard. All of her fans are obviously upset, and we empathize. We brought Rebecca on to the show in the first place. Hayden is a character the audience didn’t have a connection, or any familiarity with, but I just knew Rebecca would jump right in with the story we were telling two and half years ago, and make it really work. Rebecca and I are close friends. She is a phenomenal actress. She had great chemistry with Michael Easton (Finn). This story had come to a natural end. Hayden could return … you never know what the future holds.
Another hot button issue of late has been the contract situation and status of William deVry (Julian) and GH. Are you hoping to hash things out?
Photo Credit; JPI Studios
FRANK: I love Will. He and I get along really great. But at this point, it’s just a little bit up in the air. In terms of story, Julian may be doing time in jail, but hopefully it will all work out, and we can tell a really satisfying story for everyone. We want to make sure that we tell it in a way that is true, too, from both Alexis’s (Nancy Lee Grahn) side, and Julian’s side.
You recently brought Michael Sutton (Stone) back for the episode where Sonny is fighting to stay alive in a construction site pit, and is “visited” by Stone. Were you on the set that day watching Michael’s emotional reunion, and scenes with Maurice Benard (Sonny)?
Courtesy/ABC
FRANK: I was on the floor, but I was not directing that, because that week was extremely difficult, as I had to pay attention to the regular parts of my job. Michael was so lovely and fantastic. He is just a really special human being, and we were all really blessed to be in his company that day. Maurice’s wife, Paula, came to the set. We were off to the side holding hands and watching them work. Michael just re-charged that mini-arc of Sam (Kelly Monaco) shooting Sonny, which was so interesting, and so clever that the writers came up with. Kelly Monaco’s performances have been outstanding. It was just another way to revisit Sonny’s past, but also revisit the past of the show, and sort of remind the audience that we know, and we get it. We love those characters, too. Stone is dead, and there is nothing we can really do about that, but we brought him back for that day, and tried to squeeze as much emotion and as much “Stone-isms” into the episode. So it was fun, and we keep trying to do that. We have some really fun stuff coming up with Jackie Zeman, otherwise known as “J-Z”. I call her that. (Laughs) I love her so much, and also we will see Felicia (Kristina Wagner) and Mac (John J. York). We are always working so hard to keep the show moving forward, but also honoring the past, and honoring the recent past.
Maura West has been turning in gut-wrenching performances, one after the other, as the viewers have watched the fallout of Ava being badly burned in a fire. Will you continue to tell this story, and take the time with the beats of Ava’s journey?
Photo Credit: JPI Studios
FRANK: Ava is going to have a long journey ahead of her. I think a lot of people think she needs to pay for her crimes as well, and what she is going through now is really hard. Because Maura is that special kind of performer, she can show all the levels of shame, degradation, pain, humiliation, and the damage to Ava’s vanity. She plays it all in such a beautiful heart-breaking way that you can’t help but root for her. Ava’s daughter has been taken away, her beauty has been taken away, and it will be interesting to see her get it back, and what she does with it.
Finally, what can you give GH fans as a tease for what to watch for this fall?
FRANK: I think the show’s tease for fall is: you know who is coming back and you know what’s going on. Everybody has some big story!
So, what do you think will happen on-screen when Steve Burton returns? Will GH tell the “Tale of Two Jasons” with Billy Miller (Jason) on the canvas as well? What do you hope happens story to your favorite GH characters in storylines this fall, and the comments shared by Frank Valentini on the performances of Maura West and Kelly Monaco … or the contract impasse with William deVty, and exit of Rebecca Budig? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
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I pray he isn’t coming back as Jason.billy has that roll now and we don’t need any one to mess it up.i really hope they bring hayden back also
Steve always has been Jason, I like Billy……but it is time for Steve to reclaim “his” role…….Billy does not have a thing “stone cold” about him. He is not convincing when he does about Sonny’s business……Burton is in no way an “air Hog”….Billy is too soft looking to ever be ‘stone cold”……..Please bring Steve back, we have missed him!!!!
I agree, Miller has been horrible as Jason! Its like a great quarterback returning to a team he left via free agency, its just didnt work out for either of them so he is back home on the right team!
Billy Miller is a good actor, but he never really seemed to be able to fill Steve Burton’s shoes as Jason Morgan. Hopefully they can reveal his true identity in a believable way and possibly keep him on for a while but not as the real Jason.
Rolling my eyes so far back in my head they’re stuck. FV just doesn’t get it all all. He says Ava should pay ?? When the heck is Sonny going to pay ? Monica hasn’t been given a single line of dialogue where she drags Sonny/Carly for AJ’s death. We saw her smiling at them as guests at Ned’s wedding ? WTH? Sonny in the hole was LOL funny. His praying to God was insulting. The SOB hasn’t evolved in 20 yrs. It’s also high time GH quit with the non stop violence especially gun violence. I’m so fed up… Read more »
Spot on. 100% agree
Double second! Let me add also that as a viewer only one year past the coveted 18-49 demographic, this tendency to spend so much attention (and money) on older characters who are 45-50+ has really weakened the “middle” generation of GH that should be carrying the show in the romance department. They have tied up nearly every 30ish character except for Michael & Griffin (who is I think a boy genius and not even 30 yet). I get have older characters like Sonny, Anna, et al who are not doting old grandparents. But, whatever happened to the romantic quintets (Alan-Monica-Rick-Lesley… Read more »
That’s what I said, Scoma. Maybe he survived because God has something BIG in store for him. The black plague!!!!
Your first sentence is hilarious. LOL.
I agree! Sonny and Carly are such a bore! So are Lulu and Dante! Enough, enough, enough about poor Morgan!! We know he and Nicholas aren’t dead because no bodies!
I’m with you!
“… Rolling my eyes so far back in my head they’re stuck ” had it truly not been for this site. I would not have kept up with GH. BALANCE GH – just – SOME – balance. the most lauded cast by posts. Sonny and Carly don’t even know how to act anymore… it’s TOO MUCH. I will continue to post… not one… NOT ONE character seeks out Carly and Sonny. for what ? fun – couples dating – family outings – borrow money – even their siblings hide.. save more Michael… god… he’s tired. Nelle is just as blank… Read more »
I totally agree . I turn the show on, see its the same old BS, shut it off and go to the gym. This stupid show hasn’t improved since the killed AJ again. Every character is evil personified, and never pay. As for Stone cold, Y$R could keep him. Frank doesn’t really believe this BS he is spooting does he ?
The only way to watch this soap without going completely insane is to just check your brain at the door before entering the Port Charles city limits!
Shay…your comment made my day…lol. Thank You.
Have a good one, Shay.
You’re welcome, jaybird369! Glad you liked it….
Hayden story rans its course because Frank is done playing with her! He wants a new toy! Hayden hadnt even been scratched and we had to sit through all her BS and then finally they tease us with a possible Jeff Weber return and POOF!
RE: Hayden…”This story had come to a natural end. ”
What a load of crap! Her story was just getting good…
She was pregnant – what happens to the baby?
She was getting married – what happens to Finn?
She was getting close to her sister – story dropped.
She was Jeff’s daughter – they never met.
Etc – etc – etc!
Ugh. I could care less about Steve coming back.
Budding was great on GH, huge loss. This show
Is unwatchable now.
I am with you. I want Rebecca to stay and Steve not to come back. He chose to leave to go to another soap. He doesn’t deserve to come back. I have watched GH since day 1, but I’m done with it now.
if you’re so easily deterred from watching the show because Steve Burton is coming back, and Rebecca is gone, you weren’t much of a fan in the first place, regardless of the fact you watched it “since day 1”. This isn’t the first time this kind of thing has happened, and it won’t be the last. But if you’re done with it, fine. GH won’t miss you.
Goodbye jann! dont need you! Burton left for different reasons. You probably never took chances in life. He did. Dont ridicule someone who isnt lazy and wont get off her damn couch! Welcome back Stone Cold!
Other actors have left to go to other shows and come back through the years. Notably, Kin Shriner, who first departed to go to the long defunct “Texas” soap. He shockingly returned to GH (pre-spoiler internet days) when Scotty caught the bouquet at Luke & Laura’s wedding. Over the past 40 years, he’s come and gone numerous times. Genie Francis found work on AMC, DAYS and Y&R, but she was gladly welcomed home to GH. Jane Elliott also made soap rounds. Edward may not have been glad to see Tracy return, but I’d guess most viewers were. I’d also bet… Read more »
Oh, katiek, I never thought that the day would come when I totally agree. For the first time, I’m fast-forwarding half the show and find myself rewriting the other half out loud. Pathetic. I always watch Billy Miller and Laura Wright because they’re my favorite actors, but where are Elizabeth, Franco, and so many others? Yes, Joss and Oscar are cute, but a romance with 14-year-olds isn’t my idea of fun. And don’t get me started on Man Landers. Pure idiocy. Then to find out Heaven and Earth are being moved, refinanced, and God knows what else to bring back… Read more »
Soaphound…I’m sorry but BOTH Joss and Oscar annoy me. It’s GH…not The Disney Channel!!!!!
Have a good one, Soaphound.
I didnt miss Freako and Man Landers is the WORSE idea these morons have had since the Cassadine Island Adventure where they stupidly shot Nick and Kevin!
yup, not interested in Steve’s return. Already mourning the loss of Rebecca Budig.
50/50 ppage, I do like Steve but I agree, Hayden was getting likable.
I absolutely 110% agree with you about Steve coming back! Billy has made “Jason” his own so why fix what isn’t broken! Steve chose to leave all those years ago and as far as I’m concerned he could’ve stayed home! I am not gonna stop watching the show though.
Keep Hayden on GH I just love her and Liz together as sister’s and Dr Finn it great story play out so let’s keep Hayden on GH
I am so with you. I had a tough time reading what Frank had said and I think Hayden has alot of story left to tell. She has ties to Elizabeth for God’s sake!!! I pray someone comes to his or her senses and keeps Hayden around.
Yes, Patti. Just when the sisters’ relationship was going to a good place, they pull the rug from under us.
I love the newly-found warmth between them.
They finally started to get the ball rolling with Hayden and then they cut her. What idiots! We had the possibility of her story with Liz , Jeff Weber coming home and I liked the guy who portrayed her dad and wouldnt it be cool for him to get sprung and strong arm Sonny?
I haven’t always been Budig’s biggest fan, but I was extremely impressed with her performance on Friday’s episode. She tapped into all the emotions her character generated in the past 2 1/2 years. You saw the bad girl one moment, then the redeemed vulnerable woman in the next. If those were the last scenes with ME, they were extremely powerful.
Yesss, Steve!!!!
I agree Steve. She has always been a good actress, the character was weak for so long and know they give her a bone to chew on and then swiftly take it away! Fans showed outcry over Wil possibly leaving GH, where are the fans for Rebecca?
How about a shocking twist…neither Steve nor Billy are the real Jason but still have Q blood and dna in them…turns out they are faternal twins of Jimmy Lee Holt, a Q who hasnt contacted the family in years…Jimmy knew he had twin sons but never talked about them because the boys mother fled with them to parts unknown…however, Helene found them, the mother was killed and she kept the boys a prisoner for years just like she done with Jake…she maybe gone(maybe not) but Helene had evil plans for the twins and now those plans are about to be… Read more »
That is a great plot which makes me think it won’t happen. In my experience, fans always have better ideas than the writers.
Jason was born before Jimmy Lee came on the show. Jason was born in 1982 and Jimmy Lee came in 1983. However the way this show rewrites history anything is possible
Wonderful interview Michael! Frank V. has such a demanding job, and he appears to really care about the show and the characters. I would really hope that he understands the audience..what they want and what they don’t. The show is in dire need of writing. I truly want to care about the characters and just when I become invested..which takes time…the writers cut the storyline. I really cared for Alexis and Julian but the story is cut short because of how they had Julian threaten to kill Alexis. I really cared for Finn and Hayden and her entire storyline with… Read more »
If Frank really cared about the show, he would be more in tune with what the fans want…and that AIN’T Steve Burton coming back! Just check some of the polls.
Steve is the reason…no matter how much they deny, deny, deny…that other favorites on the show are leaving! The budget can’t keep them because they have to pay St. Steve!
Hope he’s worth it!
He’s NOT!
SZ…oh, I agree. I didn’t care for (as you put it) St. Steve on GH the first time around…and I am NOT INTERESTED in ROUND TWO!!!!! N-o-p-e.
Take care.
How do you know this? How much do you think Steve makes? FV sits on a mountain at GH, if he wants something it happens, I cannot see him unloading the bank for Burton. Jason coming back could be good. I have little faith in the writing but it could be entertaining. Give it a chance. Plus, if they were cutting the roster to save money, why not Nelle, Michael, Dante, Lulu, Nina , Jordan, Andre and Nathan? Those characters suck and bring zero drama to this daytime legend.
I’ve been watching for 40+ years. I want SB back as Jason. The pairing of BM and KM is so dull and uninspiring.
NO ‘two-Jason’s!’ It didn’t work with the two-Todd’s.
The new co-head writer gets GH, but the EP doesn’t. Frank has decimated the veteran cast, there isn’t much GH left. Van Etten has been watching since he’s twelve but he’ll be writing for Franco, Finn, Nina, Ava, Valentin and all the other new characters, so it doesn’t matter. So ridiculously disingenuos to say Hayden’s story has come to an end when she’s pregnant and is engaged. I don’t particularly care if the character stays or goes but come on. And why is Easton still around? Hayden has come to an end but the father of her child and fiance… Read more »
And also what crap about honoring the past but moving forward. Giving Mac & Felicia a silly cameo is an honor? Why aren’t GH icons Felicia and Mac on GH? The absolutely stunning Kristina Wagner & the oh so handsome John J. York. Guess what Frank? Howarth pushing 50, playing a recast Franco like Todd a 25 year old OLTL character is the past.
I agree that our legacy..veteran actors should have more screentime.Still waiting to see Laura/Genie’s storyline that was brought to a complete halt several months ago.Not so happy that a deal could mot be made on Tyler Christopher’s renewing conract,and we lost him to Days now.Its very upsetting,and miss Nikolas.I do like William Devry,and hope he returns soon.I hope tgey rethink letting Rebecca go..Love her.I do like Roger H.He is an outstanding actor,and am liking him with Liz..Domething soecial happening there.I love Jason/Billy Miller,and Kelly/Sam..I think that their chemistry is amazing,and can’t see them having amother Jason..crazy..Billy is all the Jason… Read more »
Well damn why bother watching?
Yep. That’s his way of saying out with the old; in with the new. And I TOTALLY agree. The “cameos” of Mac and Felicia are insulting. Inane, ridiculous. I’m all for levity but that’s all they’ve reduced these characters to. Mac doesn’t even seem like Mac…and having them look like fools to Nathan and Valerie and having t defend themselves to Auntie Stella was cringe-worthy.
Neither Mac nor Felicia should have disappeared in the first place. Both beautiful characters inside and out.
Agree re Kristina and John. Magnetic, exciting characters who can “leaven” with humor. And they are legacy characters.
True, MB, but, for those of us who are ‘new’ watchers, that ‘sexual’ stunt was entertaining in its absurdity—great comedic break, out of left field, pardon the pun.
So, as much as I appreciate your affront for reducing favorite vets in this manner, I loved it—in the eye of the beholder and all that stuff; sorta, kinda.
Yeah, the Mac and Felicia stunt was condescending as all hell.
They treat them like their two cute senior citizens engaging in a little hanky panky. They’re not that old! And even if they were, they deserve to be treated with more respect.
I guess Frank and the writers think they’re being kind trotting out this forgotten fan favorite couple, but it was insulting and disrespectful
Give them their own storyline. Don’t use them as props for that idiotic Ask Man Landers story.
@CeeCee….I’m with you on the Mac and Felicia moment…it was cute, funny, harmless! And I found it refreshing that a couple who has been through so many ups-and-downs together over the decades can still be quite obviously sweet on one another! At least this is a real romance between two adults with documented history on its side…it’s actually relatable to those of us who have watched these characters through the years, unlike the flimsy fiction upon which that pitiful premise which predicated the pairing of Julian and Alexis was based!!!
Roger gets tons of money and he wasnt missed and he has no relevant story anyway!
It’s nice to get breaks from some polarizing characters. 3 months without Franco, 2 upcoming months without Julian.
Please, Maurice, take a cruise around the world, or something!
FV and RC were amazing on OLTL and the first three years on GH. However, FV clearly thinks he’s building a mega / hybrid soap with actors who STILL play their previous popular characters from their old soap operas. The ratings the last few months clearly show that the hybrid / mega soap theory is NOT working and it is time to cut the cord with a few more characters (Nina, Franco/Todd, Hayden, Finn, etc) that are not needed on this show. If FV was serious about fixing the show then why are the HW not GH writers with long… Read more »
Not trying to be a negative nancy … but … When I hear “the story had come to a natural end”, I say, “that’s a load of sh*t”. Sonny’s story has come to what one could consider a natural end, numerous times. Ava’s story has done the same thing. But here’s the thing – soaps are a continuing drama; the point is, the stories continue, lives continue, a particular story may end, but the overall ongoing story of their lives continues. I have no connection to Hayden, so gone or not, doesn’t concern me one bit. But let’s not pretend… Read more »
“Negative Nancy,” eh? Haven’t heard that one before, Michael.
BYW, he promises more romance–I’m willing. 🙂
There is a ton more that could be written for Hayden, they just dont want her around! Just like Nick Cassadine, having that character on would be great, especially with Valentin but they deem it unnecessary.
Less of Sonny/Carly/Burton-Jason and more of other characters. So many lost opportunities to showcase the great talent that this show has in favor of All Mob All The Time. I suppose we’ll never be rid of it.
Reading between the lines of his interview and deVry’s, I’d really be surprised if we see WdV back on the show. They were both extremely careful in their wording — almost like it was a mutual decision.
I will disagree with Frank, Hayden’s end story was rushed and not natural. I’m sure the writers wouldn’t have made her pregnant if they knew she was leaving.
West has been phenomenal and Monaco has stepped up her game, big time.
I’ve already posted my wishful thinking about Steve Burton’s character. That’s the only thing that keeps me intrigued that’s coming up.
Steve, they rush EVERY story! Whether its good or bad, its unmemorable! Tell me what story in the past three years would go down in history as being memorable?
“…Maura West has been turning in gut-wrenching performances one after the other ”
She’s Amazing. bar none the unqualified quintessential ACT @GH
ITS AMAZING to watch her OUT OF Sonny and Carly DEAD orbit.
PS: I LOVE William DeVry. He Needs to remain on the show. bring back Robin Christopher as Skye Quartermaine as his new leading lady.
Can’t see W. DeV nor Maura remaining on the show. No redemption for either–no matter how much suffering an “mask-wearing” they put Ava through. She’s evil and not believable–and, that cardinal sin, melodramatic. Aloha and adios. 🙂
I liked that Rebecca could be returning,and I hope soon,and also hope William returns very soo and jail time a short one.I agree that Maura is a faboys actress ..love her as Ava.and storyline.I already miss Jon,and Genie,and Nicholas,but hope Genie,and Jon won’t be away very long.Genie is a personal fav for decades,and she is also an outstanding actor.Please give her the big storyline promised that was brought to a complete halt many months ago..Kelly Monaco has also been killing it along with Billy Miller.Their chemistry is over the top.They set the screen on fire..As Jason,and Sam Morgan they have… Read more »
I agree Phyllis. Billy is the best and I’m so relieved that SB’s return doesn’t mean Billy’s departure. I went through enough withdrawal pains when he left Y&R.
I totally agree. I just don’t want to loose Billy as Jason.
Billy Miller is too good for GH. He had a small part on last week’s Ray Donovan and he hit it out of the park.
Yes I do agree.
Maura West is amazing!
I’m hoping on the clone angle and Steve being the clone and Billy being the original Jason. Billy Miller did a fantastic job filling Steve Burton’s shoes. He truly deserves to stay as the true Jason
No way, Steve Burton is and always will be Jason……bm is too soft and pudgy to look dangerous…….I have watched SB for as long as he has been on the show and I see NO reason to replace him…………….
I have to say that even though I am most crushed by losing Rebecca Budig, I am looking forward to some of the stories with Ava and her struggles and a few other storylines. My lowest expectation is with the return of Steve Burton. I just don’t get what his power is. Some love him and think he walks on water but I don’t. He is just a miss for me. I want to say more but I will be fair and give him the benefit of the doubt. Seriously though, I am completely in the Billy Miller camp. That… Read more »
Sad to say, I haven’t missed Jane Elliot; sad to say, she just wasn’t the character that she used to be in her classic run; that is to say, until “Tracy” literally “ran” into the character that used to be “Luke” and literally turned into another forgettable character–overblown and forced into a mold the character clearly didn’t fit.
One caveat: I’ve certainly missed the SKILLS of Jane Elliot; but, unfortunately, she had to twist and turn her character into someone unrecognizable.
I agree, her and Tony are retired and its probably best for them and it hasnt hurt the show. I loved both of them, for sure but I am okay that they are gone. I just wish they would restock the Q’s!
In other words, you don’t want to see Joss emulate her own “hoochie mama” or “hoochie grandma,” for that matter….
Steve’s last year on Y&R, he acted and well. They had a hell of a time fiquring out what to do with him. His exit story was pretty good. Joss and Oscar are a breath of fresh air. GH struggles with the teen scene but they are on to something here. Spencer will return with his dad, I predict. Kiki is cute and the actress is getting better. I never heard her have a desire to be a doctor so its a bit odd? Valentin is gold. I want him with Anna!
“…Kelly Monaco’s performances have been outstanding. ” what has she done ? she hasn’t truly interacted with any one. period. as I’ve explained before… she deadpans… in comes dead Sonny to kingpin his manhood for what it’s worth’less. and “Jason” interrupts with who are you talking to ? are you alright ? Sam comes to and makes a hasty exit and or excuse. end of story. so now she’s spending all her time trying to drum up memory lapse… bwah bwah bwah what EVER ! this is ALL so laughable. Billy Miller isn’t doing that much in the arena of… Read more »
THANK YOU, Patrick! If “outstanding” means speaking in a monotone and looking up to the right and left when delivering your lines, then yes, her performances have been OUTSTANDING!
Kelly has been awesome! Just keep her away from Mumbles!
Who knew all that GH needed to do to clear out the bloated case was bring back Steve Burton how come none of us thought of that ? Yep once Mama Bear JFP got shown the door he runs back to GH comical actually I never thought Billy Miller really fit the role of Jason but also not interested in what I am afraid is going to be the tale of two Jason’s.
I think TPTB needs to clean house, anyway, but not to make room for Steve Burton. There are too many recurring actors, new actors, etc., that are introduced to us one day, and then dropped/not to be seen again for weeks or months. Agreed, not interested in Steve Burton’s return, “The Tale of Two Jason’s,” or the “Carson” Show to be played 24/7.
Tale of Two Jason’s? I like it. We could call it The Revenge of Stone Cold.
Stonecold could be some dark superhero/villain and his Robin would be the first Michael. You know that red headed, bastard step son of Sonny’s who was shot in the head and went into a coma? Angry that they’ve been replaced by shiny, happy imposters, original Michael and Stonecold could reek havoc on the town of Port Charles.
Someone call the costume department.
I have no idea what we are supposed to be excited about. Frank Valentini is a joke of a producer as far as I’m concerned. Then again, I know he’s not completely in charge like Gloria Monty and Wes Kenney were back in the day. But still, he’s not doing anything to make things he can control better.
Oh, Gloria Monty was amazing. I love hearing the veteran actors talk about her, and what a powerhouse she was, way back in the day.
Gloria was the Fred DeCorva of daytime!
William DeVry : equates Sexual Stimuli WITH acting skill.
. . . and I’m not feeling the “sexual stimuli.”
Me neither, Nancy! Perhaps if such energies were directed toward someone other than the too-willing Alexis it would be more palpable, not to mention, palatable! The “ick factor” with those two is simply too great to overcome!
Rebecca Buddig : “…She is a phenomenal actress. She had great chemistry with Michael Easton ”
WHY didn’t Frank / Jean / Shelley WRITE ! showing Finn and Hayden interacting with ANY ONE !
it’s no wonder that SOD called them the isolated pair. FIRE Michael Easton.
It looks like Easton will be around a while. Finn’s interaction has been with only Hayden, Tracy and Monica in a good light and Brad and Liesl in a negative.
Funny how they never mentioned his resemblance to Silas after the first week. Oh, Silas, perhaps Kiki should remember her father was a doctor!
Sorry, I disagree totally about Rebecca Budig’s exit. From what I see the fans, including myself, love seeing her no matter who she plays. That’s just drivel. Big mistake. Seems like many fans don’t really care about Steve Burton any more. My guess is his return will not be as celebrated as TPTB seem to think. I am excited about the new co-headwriter as he worked on the best soap ever OLTL, but to say he gets GH is kind of funny because most of us out here in TV land are having a very hard time ‘getting’ GH lately.… Read more »
From one Nancy to another, you said it: “Most of us out here in TV land are having a very hard time ‘getting’ GH lately.
Yeeesss, NancyH. Love RB no matter her role.
Her and Nick were white hot together!
“…the dynamic of the show in such a way that it will create a lot more romance, a lot more intrigue, a lot more adventure, and all the stuff that you want ”
this is ALL going to happen because of just one old blue eyed STUD. okey dokey
i’ll be waiting in the wings
Me, too! More romance–I up for it!
More mob wars–not up for it.
I hope Billy Miller stays they could twin brother she kidnaped and Steve stay also been watching GH. Foe 30 years love. The show thank u Shirley OBert
I hope both Steven and Billy both stay I have been watching G H for 30. Years.
Huge mistake letting Rebecca go. So many stories could be written with her.
Right on!!!! They ditch Buddig yet continue with this so not interesting Curtis & his ‘auntie’ story line??? Get Budding back, ditch auntie, and mix her and Curtis up ASAP!!!
Auntie Stella needs a diversion—tight arse, that she is!!! How about Andre’? Or Finn?
Busy body.
Curtis is a grown man. This storyline borders on the ridiculous. Star-crossed lovers at this age? Gimme a break!! Dumb!!
rocky83…SOMEONE should send Aunt Stella on a L-O-N-G cruise…FAR, FAR, AWAY!!!!!
Hey…just an idea……….
Just now, I forgot to add an extra ‘FAR’. My bad.
Yeah! How Stella Got Her Groove Back!
Incidentally, Stella was Boom Boom Washington’s girl friend in Welcome Back Kotter. She was super cute.
Please no two Jasons. I think Billy Miller is doing a great job. Steve and Kimberly work so well, bring him back as Patrick. That could be a very interesting to see them together at last.
This guy NEVER follows through with his promises. Frank is a carnival barker! I will expect NOTHING!
Succinct and on target again, Trimm!
yeah yeah yeah, everybody loves everybody and everything is just peachy keen.
Gotta disagree w/ him about Ava, wouldn’t matter how great the acting was, there’s NO WAY I could ever root for her.
What I said!
Spencer (NicolasJBechtel) had a great summer with all of the characters, especially with Grandmother Laura- Genie Francis. I look forward to seeing him visit again. I don’t know exactly what Frank means re “how it will impact Kevin and Laura” other than open up Laura (Genie Francis) to a Lead Actress story line showing strong, street smart, brave Laura that will captivate the audience. We’ve all been waiting for her to get a story worthy of her and stop teasing us with little glimpses. Jon isn’t on contract and that drives his fans crazy, makes everyone wonder if Frank is… Read more »
So totally agree! Give Laura and Kevin a story that does not involve sitting across from Lulu listening to her babble or playing back up to Spencer
I don’t see how Spencer leaving will affect their relationship. We didn’t see much of it when Soencer came to town other than Kevin supporting Laura and Spencer. We have yet to even see their home.
I do hope we see much less of Sonny and Company. The shows are much better when they are not on. Sonny needs his own 30 minute spin off dhow
YES, sick and tired of hearing the incessant, spoiled, and annoying Lulu babble! I have felt that way since Emme took over the part of Lulu. She acts like a petulant, immature, little sister, not a married woman, mother of two.
“…Jon isn’t on contract and that drives his fans crazy, makes everyone wonder if Frank is serious ”
here here… for as long as I could stand his antics… LOVE watching Genie Francis getting her ‘own” family nucleus… w/ Spencer and Kevin.
That Spence does drive
it was a pure joy and delight to see Laura with her own brood.
with all these plans Kevin was making for Laura and Spence to move in with him.
August tease… we shall see come fall… just how serious Frank and Shelley are
I’m with you, Rose. “Open up Laura (Genie) to a lead actress story line.” Agree that “Laura” is strong, street smart, and brave.” Always captivating–and often funny!
Romance and humor–couldn’t we us a LOT of that???
Laura handled Spencer and that was good. She actually tried to parent the young brat. Sadly, GH will not ever write for Laura the way the fans want. Genie will have to go to Y&R where they feature veteran actors and do it well!
I think it was a lot of talk, wishful thinking, but he rarely walks his talk. And– I have no enthusiasm over Steve’s return. Sad to read the Ava story will drag on and on and on and on and on. Throwing Rebecca Budig to the curb was a big mistake. Having Lulu and Maxie back is unpleasant.. Shelly should have left with Jean and Chris Van Etten at the helm to turn the boring blah no direction of GH around and bring to GH into the 21st century. Well, time will tell how GH will be, and too many… Read more »
su0000, I agree with you over Steve Burton’s return-not excited or enthusiastic in the least and I have watched since 1984. I remember Jason Quartermaine and was a fan of Jason Quartermaine not Jason Morgan. I have never been a fan of Maxie; although, I do like Nathan (solo, and perhaps with another love interest-not Amy). I prefer Julie Marie Berman over Emme Rylan’s Lulu, ANYday!
Wow. I agree with Su.
Why does Ava need to feel shame and be burned and turned into a ghoul and pain for her crimes, while Sonny has roamed around Port Charles without paying for his?? GH will only become GH again when Sosnny is killed off!!
….because Sonny holds some kind of crystal ball, Jovin….don’t you know? He is now “friends” with God.
In finding Griffin, falling into a pit, and talking to an apparation ; Sonny has found God, who gave him absolution to kill and plunder and scheme, at will.
Ava is simply a Jerome who cannot hold a candle to a Corinthos. There is a higher standard among mobsters. Sonny simply has more notches in his belt and on his bed-post.
Love Ava….hope she stays forever….with Nik C/Nick Stabile.
I had been hoping for more of a “Dante’s Inferno” scenario for Sonny…and, no, I don’t mean, “Falconeri!”
I hope it’s not the tale of two Jasons since I prefer Billy Miller in this role.
Who is he kidding, the return of Burton means only one thing: once again it will be the Sonny/Carly/Jason show every day, and everything else will take a huge back seat.
EXACTLY. I am sick to death of Sonny and Carly.
dmr…me, too. As far as I’m concerned, those two LOWLIFES Sonny and Carly bring NOTHING to GH…PERIOD!!!!!
Later.
I’ve been sick of Sonny and Carly for 15 years. I actually stopped watching for about a decade because of how sick I am. There really is a bit more balance these days than there was back then, but, for me, any Sonny an Carly is too much. Wish the show would give them a rest.
When will we get a new Nicholas Cassadine ?
THATS WHAT I WANT TO NOW!!!!!
MEANT TO READ……THATS WHAT I WANT TO KNOW!!!!!
Varni has said on numerous occasions that Nikolas and Morgan would remain dead for the foreseeable future.
With TC going to days, if they were to recast, I doubt it would be before next spring as Spencer would play a key part in the reveal, and NB is not available until next June.
the only thing i’m really bummed about is rebecca budig being taken of the show, i’m hopeful she will come back since Frank Valentini himself said she could come back, also really hope steve burton coming back will involve more then the usual forrsome, i.e( carly, sonny, sam,and nujason) if they turn this storyline all about those four then this story will be an epic fail as far as i’m concern.
Recently got into my own family’s genealogical history through Ancestry.com. It made me see the ebb and flow within a family’s history, and how certain “original” legacy family member’s start to thin out. It’s got to be a challenge for writers of soaps like GH to deal with this over the years. So I’m trying to reconcile not having GH just revolve around the Q’s, Cassadine’s, and others anymore. And accept the old with newer characters to Port Charles. But also hope they minimize Sonny/Carly focus. It has been too much. Will miss Hayden/Rebecca, but there was the teaser from… Read more »
All soaps have an ensemble cast and should all be part of the stories…GH should be about the Qs. Cassidines and Corintho families and those not part of these families should also be front and center with them…too much Corinthos and Nina…all cast should get equal time…here you have Julian/Alexis in a major story involving her daughters at various times but you dont really see Julian’s son Lucas…Lucas and Brad need more airtime…the show focus too much on Griffen and Finn like they are the only doctors in the entire hospital!!!
LOL…they ARE the only doctors in the hospital! Well, except Monica who whisks by with words of wisdom and hopefully Dr. Max Holden 🙂 aka James Depaiva aka I don’t remember what his GH name is. Oh. Dr. O. Is she or isn’t she still on the show. She just kinda faded out while promising her next devious plan….
As for legacy, Hayden is carrying the great grandchild of Steve Hardy. Why haven’t we seen Elizabeth take Hayden to Steve’s picture in the lobby and tell her their grandfather would be proud she’s looking after the hospital’s finances. Blown opportunity.
I’ve resigned myself to the fact we will never see Jeff Webber on this show again. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed the brief appearance of Raymond Berlin. That was a relationship I would have liked to seen mined more. The actor has presence and would be a good love interest for Monica or Liesl.
Steve…Plus Elizabeth has her own sons as Hardy legacy. Knowing soaps they could start aging them for next summer.
They kind of put themselves into a quandary with SORASing Elizabeth’s kids. Cameron has been established as a rival of Spencer. Nicholas Bechtel, despite limited availability, has pretty much locked down the role of Spencer. If Cam gets aged to 16, it’s not like he’ll have a rivalry with a 12 year old. They’ll also never age Emma, as Brooklyn will probably grow in the role just as KMc did. Jake seemed to de-age when Hudson West assumed the role. Josslyn was SORASed, as was Molly, both of whom were born on screen years after Cameron. Throw in Becky’s ageless… Read more »
Steve…Good points! But since we are programmed to “suspend belief” you never know. Just look with what they did with Caine’s twins on Y&R this summer. And with Jake…he’s a cross between Hardy and Quartermaine.
Julian and Alexis should date others and THEN sometime down the road fall back in love. Is Parker Bi? Maybe her and Julian. I would love to see Kristina seethe!
@Timmm…I’m still in the Alexis and Parker camp…besides putting Krissy into a huge hissy, it would throw a real monkeywrench into that inevitably revolting Julexis reunion…which I am all for!
I wish he had addressed Billy Miller’s role in all of this. You have an amazing three time Emmy winner apparently being pushed aside for Steve Burton’s return. Billy and Kelly are soap perfection and we do not want to lose their pairing. This is very frustrating to Killy fans.
not a steve burton fan or the jason character but he’s now a two time emmy winner, lol, and billy miller extended his contract so he is staying on the show, if he felt like he wasted his time playing this character only to have it taken away, then i would think he would of bolted, surely he was presented with some idea of what the show is planning and thought it was worth sticking around. just saying…
Rebecca Budig’s story isn’t coming to it’s natural end. It is a mess & a insult to the viewers.
Emme Rylan was not on vacation. She had a baby & didn’t take additional leave other than the weeks the show was shut down (maybe a week at most).
If Steve Burton is written as the “real Jason”, that too is an insult to the viewers & Billy Miller.l
I love Steve to get involved with Kelly..bring Jasam back.I love Billy too
They can share Kelly, Keffen. One big, happy family.
I wonder, if Helena ‘played’ with Jason #2’s mind and is really not Jason….to clear things once Burton returns; perhaps, a DNA testing will be in order….who is Danny’s Daddy?
Hayden has become my favorite character. She has so many stories to explore. Why make her Liz’s sister only to have her go away. She had great chemistry with both Nicolas and Finn and made a slow and believable transition from “bad” girl to a sympathetic character. To say her story came to a natural end is a crock. So instead of having new stories exploring her character we’re going to rehash the same old Sonny and Carly and Jason stories that we are sick to death of. The way to keep viewers is to keep it fresh and new… Read more »
they needed what they were paying Rebecca to go towards Steve, and i’m sure theres other who will be cut or loose air time to pay this bozo off, show business is not a pretty place to work .
Rebecca B’s acting touched my heart today. She is sooo talented. Love my Hayden…love my Greenlee….love Rebecca. Sad….sigh!!
Man, can she bring the waterworks! So talented. Big mistake.
Steve left gh to follow Jill to Y&R. Shocker when she gets fired, he decides not 2 stay at Y&R. Then he wins an Emmy for his role at Y&R, thanks Maurice (Sonny, GH) not the one he worked with on YR Where’s Jill at? Hope he follows her to where she goes next, GH was more than fine with out him. Use the actors that are loyal to gh, Bring back Rebecca Budig, Hayden ,get the contract straightened out, with will (Julian)& stop fanning the fan wars. Steve will not do a thing for gh except make more not… Read more »
I love GH. Been a fan for over 20 years. I really disagree with letting Rebecca Budig go. She’s awesome. Been a fan of hers since AMC. It took a while for Hayden to develop but now that she has, and has a great story line with Fin and Liz starting, why get get rid of her? Huge loss and waste of talent.
Please don’t take Hayden and Julion off the show
I hope he misspoke but its astonishing….maternity leave is like a vacation? The characters reactions I’m interested in re Steve Burtons return is Current Jason, Liz and Sam. I am going to have to turn off the set when Carly and Sonny are with him as they will be chewing the scenery apart. And the remark that Rebecca Budigs exit is bc her story came to a natural end is such BS. If that’s the case then why isn’t Michael Easton leaving as well? Their characters are getting married. They could ride off into the sunset together. I like him… Read more »
I hope that Steve doesn’t take over the role of Jason. I love Billy Miller so much better. I personally wish he wasn’t coming back. No defense to the actor but I am not a fan. Billy made Jason his own and made him more likeable than stone cold. I also don’t like the fact that Rebecca Budig was let go. I don’t buy FV reason because her story was just beginning. Instead of bringing Steve Burton back why don’t they bring Nick Stable back as Nicholas.
I tried to get back into the show when burton left because before he left it was the sunny-Jason- Carly-Sam show. I came back to see some thing new and its recently gone back to the same bull and with Steve coming back it will be even worse, say bye bye to my ratings. my house counts for Nielsen ratings. I’ll just go back to watching the food network at this time.
Basically he said a whole lot of nothing. Rebecca/Hayden’s story did not come to an end; the powers that be ended it. She’s pregnant, she’s Liz’s sister, she’s marrying Finn, she’s friends with Curtis, she works at the hospital…there was so much more story to tell. As for DeVry, I hope he’s staying but I got the feeling it might just be a return to wrap things up. Which I would hate…. Sounds also that they have no intention, ever, of bringing back core characters. They’re looking ahead while trying to appease their older viewers with an occasional visit from… Read more »
I hate that Rebecca is leaving. NO good reason for it. I don’t care that Burton is returning. He’s a good actor but not needed. Don’t care about DeVry’s character on the show. Emme was not on vacation, Valentini, she was on maternity leave. You think that’s a vacation?? Am I wrong? Did she not just have a baby? yes, at first most audience members did not like Hayden, but they grew to really like her. If you were going to remove her, it should have been done when we didn’t like her. Boo hiss. Unless the Steve is going… Read more »
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Zeke to Jordan on His Arrival Back in Port Charles: “This Place Is Looking Better By The Minute”
General Hospital
Kate Mansi On Contract at General Hospital
General Hospital
General Hospital’s Haley Pullos Sued By Driver Over DUI Car Crash
More bad news for General Hospital’s Haley Pullos (Molly). The driver, in the car crash reportedly caused by Pullos, is suing the actress.
According to TMZ, the man, who’s name is Courtney Wilder, is suing Haley for plowing into his car last month while driving under the influence of alcohol and marijuana.
In his lawsuit, Wilder says the car he was driving behind barely swerved to avoid Haley’s car as she drove the wrong way on a freeway offramp. However, he claims he didn’t have time to react when he saw headlights coming his way and crashed head-on into Pullos. Wilder says he was taken to a hospital and was in critical condition.
The collision happened back on April 29th when Pullos was driving on a freeway in Pasadena and then swerved into oncoming traffic, before hitting another vehicle, which the police reported was going roughly 60 mph.
Photo: PPD
The court documents filed by Wilder claims Haley should have stopped driving when she got into a hit-and-run earlier in the night and and that she should have never been behind a wheel while being under the influence. He goes on to say, the crash has resulted in serious and lasting injuries to his body and his car being totaled, and that he is going after Pullos for the damages.
Three weeks ago, reports surfaced that Pullos entered the Malibu Detox and Residential Treatment Center.
‘Young Rock’ Canceled By NBC After Three Seasons
Andrea Bocelli to Appear on The Bold and the Beautiful
B&B’s Matthew Atkinson Gets Engaged to Brytnee Ratledge
B&B’s Katherine Kelly Lang Reminds Brooke and Taylor Fans On Being ‘Respectful’ and ‘Keeping it Classy’
Elizabeth Hendrickson Explains She is Off Contract at The Young and the Restless
Days of our Lives Legend Bill Hayes Celebrates His 98th Birthday
GH’s Former Nikolas Cassadines, Tyler Christopher and Marcus Coloma, Come Face to Face
B&B’s Scott Clifton Reflects On His Conflicted Emotions on Winning Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Over Y&R’s Kristoff St. John
General Hospital’s Réal Andrews and Finola Hughes Deliver the ‘Power Performances of the Week’
Elizabeth Hendrickson Explains She is Off Contract at The Young and the Restless
Kate Mansi On Contract at General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Zeke to Jordan on His Arrival Back in Port Charles: “This Place Is Looking Better By The Minute”
B&B’s Katherine Kelly Lang Reminds Brooke and Taylor Fans On Being ‘Respectful’ and ‘Keeping it Classy’
GH’s Former Nikolas Cassadines, Tyler Christopher and Marcus Coloma, Come Face to Face
The Men of Charity Lawson’s Season of ‘The Bachelorette’ Revealed
B&B’s Scott Clifton Reflects On His Conflicted Emotions on Winning Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Over Y&R’s Kristoff St. John
General Hospital’s Réal Andrews and Finola Hughes Deliver the ‘Power Performances of the Week’
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Cameron Begins His Plot to Frame Nick As His Return Rocks Sharon to the Core
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General HospitalJune 6, 2023GH’s Former Nikolas Cassadines, Tyler Christopher and Marcus Coloma, Come Face to Face
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General HospitalJune 4, 2023B&B’s Scott Clifton Reflects On His Conflicted Emotions on Winning Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Over Y&R’s Kristoff St. John
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RecapsJune 3, 2023THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Cameron Begins His Plot to Frame Nick As His Return Rocks Sharon to the Core
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General HospitalJune 4, 2023General Hospital’s Réal Andrews and Finola Hughes Deliver the ‘Power Performances of the Week’
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General HospitalJune 1, 2023GH’s Nicholas Chavez and Tabyana Ali to ‘Sprina’ Shippers: “Thank You For Not Only Being Fans, But Turning into Family”
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NewsJune 2, 2023Eva Longoria on Reprising Her Role of ‘Desperate Housewives’ Gabby : “I Would Be The First to Sign Up for a Reboot”