General Hospital
General Hospital's Maura West Interview: The Making Of Ava Jerome!
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
In a soaptacular performance, since debuting on General Hospital in May of last year, two-time Daytime Emmy winner Maura West has been chewing the scenery and has been mesmerizing in the role of Ava Jerome, gangster gal, who clearly would stop at nothing to get what she wants! Whenever West is on an episode of the daytime drama, we, and many others are happy campers because we know we are in for a fun ride. As played by West, you just never know what “bad girl Ava” is going to do next!
On-Air On-Soaps caught up with the “soap phenom” at the ABC TCA Television Critics Association Cocktail Reception to get some insight into the making of one of soaps new classic characters.
In addition, Maura weighs-in on having the opportunity to work with Ava’s leading men: Michael Easton (Silas) and current bedmate, Bryan Craig (Morgan). And, we take a few moments to remember the iconic Carly Tenney of As the World Turns, a role that earned West the gold twice from her peers. Here now is what Maura had to say about all that… and the Jerome vs. Corinthos mob war!
Maura, you have this incredible role on General Hospital, and you are so amazing in it! You light up the screen every time you are on. Ava is so delicious to watch, and you play her so wickedly!
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
MAURA: Something wicked this way comes! (Laughs) And I just feel like, if you are going to do it … do it! And if you’re going to have to end up getting killed-off, get killed-off, but you can’t walk the line.
This is a complete 180 from your last soap role as Diane Jenkins on The Young and the Restless. And I can say, unfortunately, the writing of her was so bad.
MAURA: I can say it, too. Being on GH has absolutely been a breath of fresh air, and to have people who encourage you, that uplift you, it makes all the difference in the world. How can you do a job where nobody is saying, “I see something. Let’s mine that.” That other thing, I don’t even remember that. It’s not something I even think about, although when I tell my husband that, in fairness he will say, “Don’t you do that. You can call up any episode on that show, on You Tube, or anywhere, and you can be proud of what you did there.” I understand that, but sometimes in life you block things out. (Laughs) But to be here at GH, and have such a supportive producing team, and talented writers who understood Ava, and understood me, Maura, rather quickly, is a real gift. It’s magic.
Courtesy/ABC
GH head writer Ron Carlivati told me in our 2013 year-end interview that he knew of your work as Carly on As the World Turns, and said this in relation to casting you in the role of Ava: “Immediately when Frank mentioned Maura’s name, I was excited, because I knew she could pull it off, but I only knew her as ATWT’s Carly. Now to see what she has brought to the character of Ava, it has just been amazing.”
MAURA: Carly was an iconic role in the soap genre, and I loved Carly. But I really didn’t want to play Carly anymore. But I do love her, and I have Emmys on my shelf, and a lot of pride and memories from playing her. And so when I took this job, I said, “I am going to make something different.” And out came Ava, with her short skirts and her curly hair, and high heels, and lipsticks. Putting her together is a whole team thing from: Shawn, the costume designer, with the dresses, Ron Carlivati in the writing of her, Frank Valentini’s input, and my creativity to define: what is this woman?
The role of Ava Jerome in the hands of another actress could be played way over-the-top. You have taken this role and made it an art-form!
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
MAURA: I think if you are going to create a character, create the character, and go for it! That is what I was taught to do. I am an actor; I went to school to do this. I don’t want to play myself. I created something with the help of these talented people and here she is, and I love her. I am in love with her.
What did you think when they told you they were going to romantically pair you with the younger Bryan Craig (Morgan Corinthos)?
MAURA: Well, my boss came to me on the floor and said to me, “You two are going to be in bed in the next two weeks.” I think he wanted to see how I felt about it. Frank is a very respectful dude. And I said, “Well Frank, I am up for anything.” And I truly mean that. Bryan Craig is a great guy. He is a very mature young man. It’s actually a wonderful romance to me. I just said, “I’m game. I’ll play.” That’s what I am here to do. I am not here to be sedate. Bryan is very respectful during the love scenes. I am always very shy doing that kind of stuff, and always have been. I am a reserved woman in many ways. I am just a mom who sits at home and plays board games with her kids. And then you go and do this other stuff. But Bryan is a great scene partner. He is present and always prepared.
And, you also have the beloved Michael Easton (Silas) to play scenes with as a man with a torrid past with Ava on GH.
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
MAURA: It’s really funny. I have pictures on my wall that were made for me by my husband. There are various pictures inside a picture frame from my Emmy wins. In my first Emmy win, it was Tony Geary (Luke, GH) who presented it to me. And the second one was Michael Easton. So I had pictures on my wall of these men I had never met, and it was so cool. And when I met Tony, “hubba hubba” … I couldn’t even speak.
And your first scene on GH was with Tony!
MAURA: I know, and I was very scared. And if you ain’t nervous, you ain’t doing it right. I have such respect for Tony. He is probably the best in our genre, and he is fabulous. When I saw my script come in I was chewing my nails, but Tony was an absolute gentlemen and a lovely, lovely man.
Courtesy/ABC
What is Ava’s deal with Silas? It appears that she could be a murderess! You could see she could want some people dead to get what she wants.
MAURA: Well, have you actually seen her murder anyone? (Laughs) But, she absolutely loves Silas 100%.
Then, she would probably do anything to keep him … like putting his wife into a coma! (Laughs)
MAURA: Probably. (Laughs) You said it, I didn’t. But honestly, Frank doesn’t tell me anything. I ask him, and he won’t tell me. Nowadays, we only get our scenes, not the whole script. I think having the entire script is kind of important, so you know when other people are talking about your character, and the cuts where they may be talking about Ava, and then they cut to me. And without the entire script, I wouldn’t know that is necessarily happening.
I’ve got to go back in time for a second with you. I posted on the final airdate of As the World Turns, this wonderful interview you. I remember how bittersweet it was. I recall at the time that you alluded to how bad the budgets had become that production could only hire a few extras to round out group scenes or atmosphere. From your vantage point now, when you think of your time at ATWT, what comes to mind? And, what about getting Michael Park (Ex-Jack, ATWT) to General Hospital?
Courtesy/CBS
MAURA: Yeah, but we held our heads high there until the very end, and we all are still in touch. And as for Michael Park, that’s not for me to decide, but I certainly would love to see him here at GH. Michael would be a great mobster. People like Martha Byrne and the producers from ATWT, we all stay in touch. It’s nauseating but true, we are like a family. It’s like blood brothers who shared blood, sweat and tears. We are linked for life, all of us.
What’s it like working with your on-screen brother, William deVry (Julian)? Had you met him before he landed on GH?
MAURA: I had never met William before. But, what do you think I did? I You Tubed him. (Laughs)
How do the two of you get along on set? You have to play this sister/brother mobster rivalry.
MAURA: It’s a very funny dynamic we have with each other on set, because we play such adversarial characters. Sometimes, you get thrown off because he is really this other guy in real life, and I am woman who is not really this “bitch.” (Laughs)
The scenes between Ava and Julian often have the sense that the siblings have a one-upsmanship with each other.
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
MAURA: I don’t ever think about who has the power in the scene. If a scene is written that I am supposed to be affected, I will be affected. I serve the script.
Who got to the set of General Hospital first? You or William?
MAURA: I was on the show first, and then he showed up and got a dressing room with a window! How did that happen? (Laughs)
In other family news, what have you thought of your son Joe’s tremendous success being cast in NBC’s Sound of Music?
MAURA: Can I tell you, honestly? I wasn’t that surprised. In a way I was, because there were so many people auditioning for the part, but I have never met anyone who can sing like my son, Joe. Joe will be in an upcoming episode of The Crazy Ones where he does a song and dance number from Chicago.
Courtesy/ABC/GHFacebook
Finally, are the Jeromes any closer to taking down Sonny (Maurice Benard)? Is anyone? (Laughs)
MAURA: Of course not! You can’t take down Sonny! No one is going to take him down … it’s General Hospital. (Laughs) But there are other ways to win the battles. And Ava, as a woman, can certainly exert some power.
So GH fans, do you think Maura’s portrayal of Ava Jerome is one of the knock-out performances in the soap genre today? What did you think about her sentiments in the interview?
Do you want to see Ava stay in a romantic relationship with Morgan … or somehow venture back with Silas, even after their relationship has been filled with seemingly treachery? Comment below!
I like Ava. Let her stay a cougar! Makes the show fun.
great interview, as usual, Michael!! I adore Maura/Ava!
I love Maura West as Ava! She brings a vulnerability to the role which would otherwise be very one dimensional. I think she and Morgan could enter into some sort of quadrangle with Silas and Sam which could affect characters.
I have fallen completely in love with Ava Jerome. In my eyes, she can do wrong and that is all testament to Maura. I was unfamiliar with her work before GH, and now I see I was living under a rock. She just completely embodies the character in a way that a non-Ava episode for me really drags. I’m fascinated by how Ava is portrayed and the way Maura brings her to life. She’s the best part of GH for me by far.
Not going to lie, I am a HUGE Ava/Morgan fan. These two have so much chemistry that you have to fan yourself during their sex scenes (HAWT!), but then you have to “Aww!” at their sweetness and genuine feelings towards each other. I rewatch their scenes countless times. If I had my way, they’d be together for the long haul. I’m loving their new angsty vibe. Maura and Bryan both sell the hell out of this couple.
Wonderful interview, Michael, thank you!
Great interview! I love Maura as Ava!
I absolutely love her!!! GH definately did their selves good on getting her on the show,, I hope she stays for a long long yime!!!
I love Ava!! She is one of my favorites….. Maura West plays her so good I hope they keep her around a long time!
I love Ava!!! Maura West plays her so good!! I hope they keep her around a long time..she is one of my favorites!
She is amazing. I watched her as Diane on Y&R, which I have stopped watching, and the character was never given a chance. She was one dimensional. When I heard she was going to be on GH, I was not very excited. Now… I wait for her scenes. Just to watch the words she says come out of her mouth is entertaining. They hit gold with casting Maura. She is multidimensional. Great writing and a great character.
Great interview! Love her in this role!
I love Ava ” Maura West” I watched her on ATWT & Y&R. Maura has finally made a home on GH. I find her
to be witchy but very loving when it comes to family. Ava will do what ever it takes to protect her family but always watching out for her self. Ava loves deeply & passionately , she’s hurt by Silis so she finds love from a younger man. “Lucky-Girl” ! Maura West is a treasure , so glad GH has given her a home!
I just want her to stay on GH — period!!! I hope they find a way to.keep Ava on
I dont care what they do with her, she is marvelous in anything handed to her. Excellent portrayal of Ava
She is one lucky lady she has a precious husband in real life ! She said everything I needed to hear about what a awful place Y&R is to work at. I may not enjoy all that is going on over at GH but she is one of the smarter decisions they made. Good luck to her.
Love Ava! Another great interview. Thanks!
I’d like them to keep her with Morgan. They are great as a couple and the dynamics/friction their relationship causes involves both mob families. Trickle down theory…
maura is devine, love Ava, she’s one hell of a bitch!, i hope she has scenes with Donna Mills, oh my god, that would be awesome, i wish the great Sarah Brown would also come back to GH, Ava and Claudia would be must see tv for sure, and before anyone says Ava and Claudia are too similar, if the show can make room for guy mobster then theres room for the divas!
Maura West is a superstar. I’m so glad that she’s on a show that respects her talent unlike the treatment she got at Y&R.
I still believe Franco is really Kikkis father…hope Maura stays with the show and never leaves…like her and Morgan to remain a couple but i wonder if Micheal breaks up with Kiki over Franco would Morgan pretend to go back to Kiki while still sleeping with her mother in order to continue to fool Sonny to believe he’s no longer is with Ava?
I don’t watch GH, but I like Ms West. If Michael Muhney were to go to GH I would start watching. Y&R lost a great talent in Maura & Michael M. Don’t know why Y&R couldn’t write for her, she is a great actress! Y&R better wake up and get some better writers and new producer!
Love her!
She is fabulous…such a great addition to GH. She tears up every scene she is…clicks with every cast mate…quite phenomenal actress!
Thank you for this interview. Maura is a great lady and a brilliant actress! Kudos to General Hospital for recognizing what a treasure Maura West is! Ava Jerome is a blast! What a fun character! Can’t wait to see what Ava’s future holds!
Maura West is classic, like a taste of old Hollywood on GH. Love the character, you can change her to any side at any time, and she has an array of emotions. Well written, and of course Maura is an amazing actress!
Love Maura West!!!! So much!
Good interview. She plays Ava very well, and I would like for her to stay with Morgan. It’s a strange relationship, because of their age, but they don’t show too many relationships like that on soap operas. There seems to be a whole slew of Jeromes out there. Nice interview though!
Maura West/Ava Jerome is absolutely stunning! A great performer .
Every time she is on stage she brings it home!!
I love the Jerome’s, they bring excitement to GH ..
FV and RC were both genius to bring us the Jeromes !!!
I really love Ava! Plus her relationship with Morgan is so hot!
Absolutely love the character of Ava Jerome & hope TPTB keep her on GH. She’s so good at being bad but there’s so much more to Ava. Love her!
Maura West is amazing in the role of Ava!! She’s so much better than on the Y&R. She’s mad Ava a 3 dimensional character with many facets. She’s a joy to watch!
I am loving everything about the awesomeness that is Ava Jerome. I love her ruthlessness. I love the fact that nobody intimidates her. That scene where she threatened to wipe Carly off the face of the planet was epic. And I am such a huge fan of her romance with Morgan. They have amazing chemistry together and anyone watching can see how their relationship is slowly evolving to something real. I hope it continues for a long while.
Am I the only one who finds Morgan’s cougar romps with Ava to be seriously “Oedipal?” I mean, he has a mother who is a bold, brassy, blonde, trashy-not-classy, take no prisoners, loose cannon b*!@#-on-wheels and he hooks up with an older woman who shares those exact same physical/personality traits. Coincidence???? I think not…..
Maura West is amazing and if GH is smart they’ll keep her! Michael Park would be great too ! Off the charts chemistry they have .
I LOVE Maura West as Ava! She has chemistry with every scene partner, but I especially like her with Bryan Craig as Morgan. They’ so hot together! Every time she is on, I have to watch the entire scene; there’s no fast-forwarding anything Maura is in. GH struck gold bringing her on board.
I’m not presently a GH viewer. I’ve watched CBS Soaps since childhood. Carly (Maura West) was my favorite character on ATWT & Maura is my all-time favorite actress. Until 5 weeks ago, Y&R was my favorite all-time Soap & Michael Muhney is my all-time favorite actor. Having said this, if GH hires Michael Muhney, I will gladly become a loyal viewer of GH . MM & Maura both have the ability to be Bad, Good & everything in between. Y&R didn’t treat Maura right either. They needed to create a new character for her so she could shine. Instead they had her playing an old time one, much older than her & gave her nothing to sink her teeth in. They are fools. As far as what she’s like in real life, I’ve met her 3 times & she’s sweet & quiet , friendly & interested in her fans. I adore her & am so happy for her. Now it’s MM’s turn to get some appreciation & respect as an actor. I’m crossing my fingers.
I like Maura was so glad when she came to gh watched her for many years on as the world turns.
I would love to see her romantically with Luke someone who is her match not someone she can control.
Mark my words, Maura West is about to win another Emmy as Ava. Not to discount her great work as Carly or Diane, but Ava Jerome is West’s masterpiece.
Here’s the deal, I was nervous when I heard she was coming to GH! I know I am in the minority here, but I think she overdid it as Carly on ATWT! I didn’t care for her much! Fast forward to today, and I am in love with her! Maura has won me over. I hope GH keeps her!
Sure hope they can bring on some of the talent from Y&R, but Frank sounds very controlling. Might not be a good fit for MM who likes to bring his own touch to the role and memorize the whole script, not just one scene.
The best actress on daytime since Beverlee McKinsey.
Thank you for this wonderful interview. Loved Miss West on ATWT and lover again on GH. How blessed we fans are to have such a dedicated honest working actress devoted to the genre. And as Ava Jerome, we do get more than a caricature, we get a character, however wrongfully guided, we like. I look forward to years of deliciousness from Miss West and Ava Jerome. Miss West, you are a class act!
Just when I was losing hope with the show in came Maura and gave the show a much needed breath of fresh air. She was amazing as Carly, and now as AVA. I think I live Ava better though.
I loved her pairing with Michael Park’s Jack on ATWT as well as when she would play opposite both Hunt Block and Jon Lindstrom (at different times), when they portrayed Craig Montgomery, Good times. I knew she’d be a keeper on the strength of her initial scenes with Tony Geary. Chemistry and a meeting of “equals”, so to speak. And she has been an excellent “teacher” in terms of (as with Maurice Benard), aiding Bryan Craig’s portrayal of Morgan. The young man has developed a much more layered portrait as a result of working with both of these “mentors”.
Once in a while there is a bit of over the top vampiness that threatens to push her to over the edge, but she’s been successful reining in RC’s obvious camp. Her ability to balance thaose elements, save her Ava from being a stock “mob moll”. Kudos to her.
Love Maura West & Ava Jerome.
Thanks for another great interview.
What a beautiful lady inside and out! I love her role on GH, and I love the way she talks about being a Mom in real life. She is such an awesome person.
Maura is a classy lady love her in all the roles except in Y&R. Love her on GH she is amazing would like to see her with Sony that would be great.
Maura is a professional and class act in every way that it matters. And her portrayal of Ava Jerome is so spot on and it’s delicious. Maura is a true resemblance of Old Hollywood actresses. Love her. She does no wrong!
Aha! I’m thinking it wasn’t Silas or Ava who tried to kill his wife…but his “vampire” twin! That’s why Silas “signed” the prescription…his brother impersonated him! For all we know…he might have slept with Ava too…letting her think he was Silas…and thus he would be Kiki’s father!
Ooooooh…..I like your way of thinking there, rebecca1!!!!! Would be a terrific twist to this brainteaser….I could dig a bit of Dracula drama coming back into the picture as long as we are spared anymore of the overdramatic “Lucy Coe Vampire Hunter” part. As I am not an Ava fan, per se, I would love to see the Silas storyline finally flesh out well beyond her past with him….think there should be some super surprises there, hopefully with Victor Cassadine and Donna Mills’ character in the mix…plus a dash of Dr. O. for good measure! (That wily woman must know where all the skeletons are buried…hence her new career path and position!) Speaking of the delicious diva doc, did you notice how she seemed quite enthralled with Dr. Clay’s dilemma the other day when she encountered him, and did you get a weird vibe from her icy, yet somehow familiar glare/eye contact with Detective West when he was in the GH elevator? Something is up with that guy….he is definitely not what he seems…either a secret Cassadine or Clay or perhaps even a….Westbourne????? Hmmmmm……P.S. I also considered the pharmacist’s reticence to identify Ava to be a possible consequence of receiving an “offer he could not refuse” from the Jerome clan….LOL.
Oh Shay…don’t even mention Dracula! LOL…I’m soooo hoping for a second season of Dracula…constantly checking the updates. But thaz a whole ‘nother story. Literally. So. Back to GH!
Yes, I’d love to see the vampire lore back in the fold. I think a lot of fans find that too fantasy-land for them, but I’d love it! Regardless, I do believe it was the twin that’s behind it all. As for the gorgeous Detective West, I’m thinking he’s very possibly Silas and Nina’s son! Maybe she was pregnant before she went into her coma…his father could be Silas or Stephen if the evil twin was going around sleeping with his brother’s women. Who knows?
No, I didn’t notice the look she gave him. Interesting…
I do believe, which I mentioned on another post that Jason is alive and Dr. O knows where he is. That woman’s got her devious hands in every mix…would be interesting to see her go up against Helena Cassadine if she every comes back to life again!
Lets get a ‘Dark Shadows’ moment in there too…lets have Stephan Clay hiding out in the now abandon Collinwood in Collinsport and have our favorite Dr.O pull a Dr. Julia Hoffman and try to cure him of his ‘vampirism’…i would love a nod to my favorite soap(just to relive a fun childhood memory) which was on ABC!!! im sure some fans would hate that but you cant please everyone!!!
I noticed you mention Dracula and i had to come here to see what you two were writing about…i love most vampire stories and ‘Dark Shadows’ was my favorite soap…some GH fans would think that would ‘suck’ bringing the vampire back but im all for it…would love a nod to DS and they rebuilt the Collinwood living room set and this is where Stephan Clay is now hiding out!!!
We were referring to the current NBC primetime “Dracula” version, jimh….It just finished up its first season with none-too-stellar ratings, so a renewal is up-in-the-air, but what a fine program! Sumptuous production values, great attention to historical details, a mostly British cast…. just a lush, beautiful experience, so both rebecca1 and I are hoping for a second year. But, yes, I have noticed your numerous postings regarding the original “DS.” While what little I have seen of it can only be charitably described as “camp central,” it certainly did set the pace for later gothic soaps in primetime! Having said that, there should be at least a small tip of the hat to “Collinwood” on GH….since they both have ABC roots! Would be a kick! Oh, and “Dr. O.” definitely does have shades of Dr. Hoffman in her DNA, although I find our beloved mad mutta to be a far more complex enigma….cannot wait to see what insanity she implements as C.O.S. ; ) P.S. Have you recovered from your bout with flu????? Hope you are feeling better!!!!…
From his debut, it appeared that Detective West was supposed to be Silas’s son, given their striking physical similarities, but since that seemed so obvious, I’m thinking there has to be another twist, be it as Stephen’s offspring, and/or a Cassadine or Westborne biological link….I think once Victor shows up (which is this Friday, can’t wait!) we will get a better feeling for what that’s about, but yeah, I got a definite spooky vibe between Dr. O. and “new cop.” As for your supposition about Jason, it could be…I really haven’t missed the character all that much, as I found AJ to be the far more interesting Quartermaine son and I like Sam with her new love, as well, but it could be interesting to bring back a recast Jason….perhaps Michael Muhney???? (That would be poetic since Y&R took our dear Scorpio….) Just read that they lost over 500,000 viewers due to Muhney’s dismissal (not going to get into the politics of that issue….) but signing him to GH would undoubtedly bring a new audience to the show. Controversial, yes, but ratings gold….As for our primetime vampire guilty pleasure, I was a bit disappointed with the (season?) finale….it seemed a bit underwhelming (as did this week’s installment of “Downton Abbey.”) But I do hope to see it return….according to TVLine, it had slightly better numbers this last episode, so it will probably be a nailbiter ( or a neckbiter…haha!) as to whether it gets renewed….fingers crossed!!!! Quite frankly, I’m still blown away from the latest “Sherlock” series…it is just phenomenal. Loved the first episode and last night’s show was another stroke of amazing artistry. Both Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman were superb, and so was Freeman’s real life love as his bride. Great, great performances all the way down to the supporting cast!!!! Truly fabulous! P.S. Didn’t mean to get off subject….I’m still not so sure that Helena isn’t finally good and dead….I think she has outlived her usefulness, and would prefer some fresh Cassadine blood….no pun intended, given our vampire discussion!!!! ; )
I knew you were talking about Dracula…it was very well made tv…i caught a few episodes and enjoyed it…hope it returns!!! and yes, im finally over the flu…thanks for asking…always enjoy reading your posts!!!
Great interview…and I absolutely adore Maura. LOVED ATWT and her portrayal of “Carly”. Def was (and will always be) a “CarJack” fan! I loved it when Maura was cast in Y&R but I was so aggrivated at the way they wrote the character – that could have been a great role but I feel the writers screwed it all up – so sad for them but SO AWESOME for GH because “Ava” is amazing. Please, please, please don’t let her EVER get killed off – she needs to be around for the long run. I’m one of those people that when someone asks “Who is your favorite actress?” My answer is “Maura West” – unless people are soap fans they’re always like “Who?” I’d put her up agains ANYONE else out there!!!!
Ava Jerome is awesome and so is Maura! Love the jab at Y&R in her interview, goes to show what really goes on behind the scenes of that show. Ava Jerome was a part made for her!
I sure hope Ava takes down Sonny—permanently!
Beyond the Gates
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 16
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) today announced the full list of nominees for the upcoming 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, and it was CBS daytime’s The Young and the Restless and broadcast television newest soap opera, Beyond the Gates that racked up the most nominations with 18 and 16, respectively.
The full reveal on Tuesday follows the announcement of several major categories including Lead Actor and Actress on Monday via Extra and Entertainment Tonight and The View today revealing Daytime Drama Series and more.
The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmys ceremony is set to take place on Friday, October 30 at the historic Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California.
Photo: CBS
In a statement, Adam Sharp, President and CEO of NATAS expressed, “We’re proud to honor the extraordinary talent and creative teams whose work continues to define and elevate daytime television, As the Daytime landscape evolves and new forms of storytelling emerge, we remain committed to recognizing the innovation happening across the industry.”
“Each year, the Daytime Emmy Awards celebrate the creativity, passion, and dedication that drive this vibrant community of storytellers,” said Rachel Schwartz, Head of the Daytime Emmy Awards. “Congratulations to this year’s nominees, whose work continues to entertain, inspire and connect with audiences every day. We look forward to celebrating their remarkable achievements in Hollywood this October.”
The Daytime Emmy Awards have recognized outstanding achievement in television programming and crafts since 1974, honoring work in a variety of genres, including daytime dramas, talk series, entertainment news, culinary, adventure, instructional and legal/courtroom programming.
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Honoree, Gold & Silver Circle Inductees, and ceremony host will be announced at a later date.
Now below, check out the nominees in the daytime drama, talk show, entertainment news series and creative arts categories and congratulations to all!
Photo: JPI
Outstanding Daytime Drama Series
Beyond the Gates
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series
Stacy Haiduk (as Kristen DiMera), Days of Our Lives
Karla Mosley (as Dani Dupree), Beyond the Gates
Michelle Stafford (as Phyllis Summers), The Young and the Restless
Heather Tom (as Katie Logan), The Bold and the Beautiful
Tamara Tunie (as Anita Williams Dupree), Beyond the Gates
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Daytime Drama Series
Eric Braeden (as Victor Newman), The Young and the Restless
Steve Burton (as Jason Morgan), General Hospital
Scott Clifton (as Liam Spencer), The Bold and the Beautiful
Thorsten Kaye (as Ridge Forrester), The Bold and the Beautiful
Christian Jules Le Blanc (as Michael Baldwin), The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Daytime Drama Series
Linsey Godfrey (as Sarah Horton), Days of Our Lives
Camryn Grimes (as Mariah Copeland), The Young and the Restless
Beth Maitland (as Traci Abbott), The Young and the Restless
Trisha Mann-Grant (as Leslie Thomas), Beyond the Gates
Amanda Setton (as Brook Lynn Quartermaine), General Hospital
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series
Sean Dominic (as Nate Hastings), The Young and the Restless
Timon Kyle Durrett (as Bill Hamilton), Beyond the Gates
Michael Graziadei (as Daniel Romalotti), The Young and the Restless
Roger Howarth (as Matt Clark), The Young and the Restless
Mike Manning (as Bradley “Smitty” Smith), Beyond the Gates
Lawrence Saint-Victor (as Carter Walton), The Bold and the Beautiful
Outstanding Emerging Talent in a Daytime Drama Series
Braedyn Bruner (as Emma Scorpio-Drake), General Hospital
Al Calderon (as Javier Hernandez), Days of Our Lives
Alice Halsey (as Rachel Black), Days of Our Lives
Giovanni Mazza (as Gio Palmieri), General Hospital
Ambyr Michelle (as Eva Thomas), Beyond the Gates
Arielle Prepetit (as Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne), Beyond the Gates
Outstanding Guest Performance in a Daytime Drama Series
Jasmine Burke (as June Hughes), Beyond the Gates
Jeff Kober (as Cyrus Renault), General Hospital
Eva LaRue (as Natalia Rogers-Ramirez), General Hospital
Christopher Sean (as Paul Narita), Days of Our Lives
Ray Wise (as Ian Ward), The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Writing Team for a Daytime Drama Series
Beyond the Gates
The Bold and the Beautiful
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
Outstanding Directing Team for a Daytime Drama Series
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Casting for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Daytime Talk Series
3rd Hour of TODAY
The Drew Barrymore Show
The Kelly Clarkson Show
Live With Kelly and Mark
TODAY With Jenna & Friends
The View
Outstanding Daytime Talk Series Host
Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Alyssa Farah Griffin, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin & Ana Navarro, The View
Kelly Clarkson, The Kelly Clarkson Show
Tamron Hall, Tamron Hall
Jennifer Hudson, The Jennifer Hudson Show
Sherri Shepherd, Sherri
Outstanding Entertainment News Series
Access Hollywood
Entertainment Tonight
Extra
Outstanding Daytime Personality (Daily)
Mona Kosar Abdi, Derek Hough & Terri Seymour, Extra
Cassie DiLaura, Denny Directo, Kevin Frazier, Rachel Smith & Nischelle Turner, Entertainment Tonight
Scott Evans, Zuri Hall, Kit Hoover & Mario Lopez, Access Hollywood
Star Jones & Corey Jovan, Divorce Court
Outstanding Arts and Popular Culture Program
Beyond the Gates: Welcome to the Neighborhood — An Entertainment Tonight Special
Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter
Variety & CNN Actors on Actors
Variety Studio: Actors on Actors
Working In the Theatre
Outstanding Music Direction and Composition for a Daytime
Beyond the Gates, Episode 103
Have Guitar Will Travel World
The Kelly Clarkson Show Episode 5033
Let Frankie Cook,” Getting the Band Back Together
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Outstanding Technical Direction and Video for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates, Episode 104
The Bold and the Beautiful,” Episode 9511
Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade”
The Jennifer Hudson Show, ” Episode 4041
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”
Outstanding Hairstyling and Makeup for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates, Episode 103
General Hospital, Episode 15719
The Kelly Clarkson Show,” Episode 5033
The Young and the Restless,” Episode 13273
So, what do you think of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy nominations? Who are you happy to see receive a nomination and who do you think was snubbed? Weigh-in via the comment section.
General Hospital
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Award nominations kicked-off on Monday with the announcements of four major categories including, Outstanding Lead Performer in a Daytime Drama Series — Actor, and among the nominees is General Hospital’s Steve Burton (Jason Morgan).
Burton is already a two-time Daytime Emmy winner in the Supporting Actor category for his roles as GH’s Jason and his turn as Dylan McAvoy on Y&R. However, Steve is yet to win in the Lead Actor category and he has received 11 nominations along the way in his daytime career.
Following the reveal that he is a 2026 Daytime Emmy nominee, he and his GH co-star, podcast co-host and comedy show partner, Bradford Anderson (Spinelli) taped a special edition of their That’s Awesome podcast just featuring Burton’s reaction to the news.
Photo: JPI
FOR LESLIE CHARLESON
Steve expressed, “I know it’s such a cliche to say, ‘I’m just so honored to be nominated.’ But truly, I’m so grateful to be nominated, so grateful to just be on the show off and on for 30 plus years and to be nominated with the guys in my category. Just to get the opportunity. Frank (Valentini, executive producer, GH) texted me right away. I was just like, ‘Thank you for the opportunity to get to do what I do.'”
Taking in the moment, Burton thanked those who helped him select the material for his nominated reel. “Unless you win, you don’t get to say things. So. I’m going just say a few things: Elizabeth Korte (co-head writer, GH) helped me a lot with the material, (as did) Michelle Henry, who’s a producer on the show, Laura Wright (Carly, GH), and then my wife Michelle (Lundstrom). I believe it was Jill Phelps who told me that when A Martinez felt like he had a great show or great scenes, he would mark it down. So, when Emmy time comes, you have all the show numbers written down, and you don’t have to think about it, because that’s half the battle (finding the material).
Burton explained how meaningful this nomination is for him, because of playing the scenes of Jason losing Monica, and his closeness with the late, great Leslie Charleson.
“The nomination’s an amazing thing, and it’s beautiful, but really it’s to honor Leslie Charleson. A lot of my material was because of her, and how I started on the show as a Quartermaine, it just means a ton,” shared Burton. “Maurice Benard (Sonny, GH) has obviously has been instrumental, and I’ve said it from day one and I’ll shout it from the rooftops. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be here, and to be working with the people that we work with is incredible.”
Photo: JPI
SHOULD JOHN OLIVER BE NAMED HOST OF THE DAYTIME EMMYS?
During the end of his conversation with Anderson, Steve suggested that the host of the Daytime Emmy should be Last Week Tonight’s John Oliver, who recently guest starred as the head of the WSB named Z on General Hospital, and is soon to show up on Days of Our Lives in a mystery role in August.
Thus far, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences has not revealed their host for the upcoming ceremony to be held on October 30 in a venue to be named in Hollywood, California.
You can watch Steve sharing his reaction to receiving his 2026 Lead Actor Daytime Emmy nomination below on a special segment on the That’s Awesome podcast.
Now let us know, are you glad that Steve chose scenes surrounding Jason mourning the loss of the woman that raised him, Monica Quartermaine for his Emmy reel? What do you think of John Oliver as a suggestion to host the Daytime Emmys? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
General Hospital’s 16,000th episode was packed with little reminders through points in today’s script that the ABC daytime drama series has set another milestone and it paved the way for the return of fan favorite and newly nominated Daytime Emmy Lead Actor nominee Steve Burton (Jason Morgan). The 16,000th episode also introduced viewers to the new surgeon in Port Charles Dr. Tristan Roberts played by Dean Geyer.
Here are the key takeaways and what went down on the July 13 episode: Tristan and Jason are seated next to each other on a plane heading to Port Charles. Throughout the flight, a beaten up Jason has flashbacks to being thrown into, and being held captive in a cell and tortured. It appears Jason is suffering from some form of PTSD from what he was put through after being dragged out of Port Charles by the WSB months ago.
As the plane prepares to land, Tristan tells Jason there would be a car waiting for him once they land and to enjoy the rest of his life. Later, Tristan arrives at the nurses and doctors hub at GH and approaches Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst). He tells her his name and that he is the new surgeon on staff.
Photo: ABC
A REUNION PLUS A HEAD NURSE DEFENDS SONNY
Meanwhile, at the end of the episode, Jason is outside the Quartermaine boathouse looking bewildered when he runs into Danny (Asher Antonyzyn), who is so thrilled to see his father, and the two hugs each other as tears are shed.
Elsewhere, Elizabeth tells Sonny (Maurice Benard) that he thinks its a great idea for him to get the 16th seat on the hospital board, but when it comes times to convince Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot) of that, things go awry when Tracy, Laura and Sonny try to work things out. After Tracy launches into Sonny about killing Alan and Monica’s son AJ, Sonny walks away dejected.
Next, Sonny runs into Elizabeth, where he informs her what happened with Tracy. So what’s a head nurse to do? Elizabeth marches into the conference room and reminds Tracy of all the different donations and ways Sonny has contributed to the hospital from the Stone Cates AIDS wing, to the Michael Corinthos Center for Pediatric Head Injuries as well as his constant support each year for the GH Nurses’ Ball.
Courtesy/ABC
WSB WAR SCARS
Then, in one of the best parts for longtime fans of the series, Elizabeth talks about her legendary grandparents, Audrey and Steve Hardy and she tells Tracy they would have wanted Sonny to have a seat on the board for all the good that he has done for the hospital. After Elizabeth states Sonny’s case, things took a turn and Tracy and Sonny wound up shaking hands as Sonny is board member #16.
In the how great was it to see Anna (Finola Hughes) and Valentin (James Patrick Stuart) together scenes department, the pick-up of last Friday’s cliffhanger is played out as the two former lovers fill each other in on what has gone down in their lives in the last several months including Valentin admitting he had been living in Carly’s attic, and Anna realizing she was kidnapped by Cullum, Sidwell and Cassius Faison. During their conversation, Anna sees the hallucination of Peter August (Wes Ramsey) right while Valentin is standing there.
Courtesy/ABC
Later Anna was on her way to saying goodbye to Valentin, when the two share an emotional hug. After Valentin made his exit, Peter reappeared and warned Anna to not let Valentin distract her because she has important work to do. Anna answers, “I know.”
So, what did you think of General Hospital’s 16,000 episode? What do you think is wrong with Jason? What is the important “work” that Anna has to do? Were you glad to see Sonny get a seat on the hospital board, or not so much. Weigh-in via the comment section. But first, check out the scenes on Jason and Tristan’s long flight to Port Charles.
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 16
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actress Drama Series
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actor Drama Series
Scott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
Randolph Mantooth, ‘Emergency!’ and ‘Loving’ Actor, Dies at 80
‘The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards’ Nominations Announcement Date Revealed: Who Will Be Going For Gold?
Steve Burton Returns to ‘General Hospital’ on Its 16,000th Episode: How Will Jason Be a Changed Man?
‘Daytime Emmy Nominations Special 2026’ Live on the Michael Fairman Channel
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers Promo: Jason’s Back, Drew Begins to Make His Move, Portia Goes Into a Labor
Scott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL Preview: Daphne’s Devastated, Steffy Finds Herself at a Crossroads with Finn
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