General Hospital
Genie Francis Dropped To Recurring Status By General Hospital As Laura's Story Comes To Abrupt Halt!
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
Over the past 24 hours, reports have surfaced on one of the most unsatisfying casting decisions in recent history. Daytime icon, Genie Francis (Laura) had been taken off contract by General Hospital and apparently dropped to recurring status.
To add fuel to the fire if viewers of the ABC soap opera caught Friday’s episode, they saw Laura making an about face when news came that her grandson Spencer had broken both his legs in Europe. Thus, all of a sudden Laura was dropping out of the mayor’s race and asking her husband Kevin (Jon Lindstrom) to step in, because she will be gone for awhile, and family comes first.
According to a report from Soap Central on Saturday: “Francis was informed in late 2017 that she would be dropped to recurring status in 2018 — and that executive producer Frank Valentini wanted Francis to appear in about a dozen or so episodes per year. Francis was said to be devastated by the decision and reportedly refused to agree to appear so infrequently.”
Meanwhile. Daytime Confidential, who first broke the story, related that multiple sources say that the popular soap star was bumped from contract to recurring status.
From the looks of things, the GH writing team had to make some quick script changes to make a story exit for Laura, just as she was set to be a major mayoral candidate in Port Charles, and just married the new love of her life, Kevin Collins.
As to Genie’s tenure at GH: There has never been a more popular soap opera duo in the history of the medium then Luke (Tony Geary) and Laura. Francis has been with GH on and off since 1977, when she debuted as a young teenaged Laura Vining.
Genie exited the series in 1982 and returned in 1993. She came back to GH in 2002 but contract talks went awry, However, in the next decade Genie made several returns and in 2015 came back to help send off Tony Geary’s Luke, but as part of that deal received a long-term contract with the series. There had been many promises along the way that Laura would get a major story of her own. Was this about to happen and it was kiboshed?
Now fans are upset and are putting it out there, that perhaps, Genie could become part of the story on DAYS which would reunite her with her former on-screen son Tyler Christopher (Ex-Nikolas, now Stefan, DAYS) and reprise her role of Diana Colville, or play someone new!
So, share your thoughts in the comment section below on this shocking turn of events that apparently has led to Genie Francis being off GH.
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OMG I hate this #bestofthebest is Genie Francis
WTF does this show have against this woman?!?! Amidst a bunch of murderes and monsters, she is the calm in the storm, the heart and soul of the show! She is an Emmy winning legend who has proven that she can be just as popular in her 50’s and beyond the spectre of Luke and Laura. I hope the show receives SERIOUS backlash for this!! I think it’s high time for a new Executive Producer on this show. The writing is on fire, but at the end of the day, Valentini is and always has been out of touch with… Read more »
Sing it, Jovin!!
I firmly believe the problem is that the man has only seen Genie Francis useful and necessary to show only so long as Tony Geary was present. Even when separated, Laura and Luke on the show still reminded long time fans of the glory days of the most watched romance in the history of the show. Tony left the show in 2015 and Frank Valentini had been waiting for the right time to remove Laura from the canvas. That is what Frank Valentini really is doing here. I’ll never forget the interview Genie gave April 2016 where she discussed the… Read more »
You said it, Jovin….this beautiful, sedate, sensible woman, who, at last, found the man of life in her mature years, is put to the curb. I love what she and Kevin represent….loyalty, love and respect.
TPTB should rethink this and put other unsavory characters to rest.
I totally agree Genie Francis is a treasure and I want to see her on General Hospital as Laura her presence is what draws me in without her the show has no soul.
I agree wholeheartedly with Jovin & Mary , with one exception. I want to see Genie on GH since I don’t watch Y&R or Days. She is as much a star of GH as Laura Wright. She was about to prove it once again with the mayor s/l until TPTB shot her down. Maybe the competition would have been too much for Laura? Do the right thing for Genie or there may be another uproar as there was when you cancelled OLTL & AMC.
The actor who plays Spencer is unavailable and lets face it, Carly and Sonny have way more story possibilities than Laura. Its just a fact. There is no Luke, No Lucky and no Nicholas. Not saying I love Sonny and Carly but the show is built around them and has been. Luke and Laura had their time, its over.
Well said!
Join said it all…thank you !!!!!!
Jovin said it all…thank you !!
ITA about a fan revolt for Genie (just as the one was done for Rebecca (Elizabeth). Someone responded to one of my comments below & we were both thinking this is in step with the “Times Up” movement. Genie & Laura (as well as Jon/Kevin) SHOULD NOT be sidelined due to their age or gender. Genie/Laura is a GH legend & many fans watch GH because of her & loved this mayoral debate story vs. Ned. Laura and Kevin were also becoming a fan favorite. Comment on ABC.COM – revolt!!! Call ABC/GH comment line ph # 323-671-4583. Voice your opinion!… Read more »
Jovin, We began mobilizing right the second Laura receives that phone call from France, for the second time since Frank Valentini has been E.P. We even have started a petition on change.org, making phone calls, texting with long time Friends (In My case) both in front of and behind the camera. Today, during the show there was a Twitter Firestorm, as they always ask Us to take to Tweeting during the show, well today they got their wish, lol… Thousands answered their call, using the hashtag #GenieIsGH… And if you notice, Michael Fairman definitely has receiving tons of comments with… Read more »
I SO have to disagree with Timmmm! Tim, you say there are way more story possibilities for Sonny and Carly !?! How so?! Sonny’s storylines have been the SAME thing, rinse and repeat, for over 20 years! New mobster comes to town, there is lots of violence and bloodshed. Sonny and Jason ultimately neutralize / murder this threat, until the next one rolls into town. Repeat! ANd YAWN!!!! Laura is in the prime of her life. Newlywed. MArried to a shrink. Connected to all the core families. Mother. Grandmother. Mayor. Friend. Fierce protector. Heart and soul of the show. THOSE… Read more »
How many other daytime stars had a Top 10 hit about their character?
To Frank and TPTB at ABC:
THINK OF LAURA
(I know she’d want it that way)
Steve, “Think of Laura” was classic General Hospital! Love it!
Whilst that beautiful Christopher Cross-penned hit was indeed used by GH as a “theme song” for Laura’s return “from the dead” storyline in the ‘80’s, the truth is it was actually written as a tribute to a “real-life Laura” who sadly died far-too-young. Her photos were sometimes featured on a background screen when Cross performed the song during his heyday….still vividly recall it! Very sad…(I believe she was an acquaintance of Cross via another more personal contact of his…in essence, an actual “friend of a friend!” Or so the musical story goes……)
Another thing, when Gloria Monte was given a mandate to get the ratings up within 6 months or the show would be cancelled. When She learned that the daughter of the late Stage Actor, Ivor Francis, was one of Her Cast Members, she came up with an idea. She took Ivor and Genie to lunch to tell them she had a plan to save the show, that being using Genie front and center in adult storylines, to drawl in the young crowd. So, correct this because quite Frank-ly, if not for Genie Francis and Gloria Monte saving the show, later… Read more »
bad bad news, ratings on the way down and so is GH
I don’t recall Genie’s presence giving GHa ratings increase. Steve Burton on the other hand is good for the Neilsen’s. His presence is known on Social Media platforms.
i’m in utter dismay –
when this thread broke : shocked stumped and ANGRY
plain out mad- Shelley and Frank AGAIN turn for the worse
if they think the fab 4 are ALL that (Sonny / Carly / Jason / Sam ) they do not carry one iota of emotion
effin piss off
Genie was one of the hearts of the show, she made up for Luke not being there. She was playing a realistic role and always there during the storm to calm everything down. Why should we watch General Hospital anymore when you’re removing an icon. I hope you’re not planning to change General Hospital in situations to more of a lovey dovey soap in the afternoon which it’s not. I’m disgusted and I’ll probably never watch General Hospital again once Genie leaves thanks for all the years I watched it but you’re going to lose a lot of people if… Read more »
Hi Patrick! This was CLEARLY not the writers! The writing was just as forced, sudden, awkward, nonsensical, and out of the blue as the decision itself. This writing team was positioning Laura as a major player and force to be reckoned with. They loved writing for her!
Why are they doing this? Laura is a big part of GH. Bring her back.
In 1980!
The Luke and Laura wedding will always be the biggest part of GH
Why Laura! Bring her back!
Patrick I think the writers were blindsided by Frank I have no idea why he did this but he did and she will prevail strong lady ! Would yoreallt want her back if she feels she is not wanted? Heck dye her hair and Brad bring her back as Taylor might help the show ???
Laura is the best actor on this show , bad decision gh , you finally got her with the right guy and you blow it, very disappointed
Genie Francis is a cornerstone figure on GH.It is a slap in the face to ask her to be recurring.She is a huge draw in viewership. The producers must be insane or on drugs.Shame on them.How horribly dissapointing.
Genie is my favorite on the show! Big mistake
Huge mistake GH. You may lose fans over canceling Genies contract. Why would you lead us down this new episode with marriage and running for Mayor to just yank it out from under the viewers? Stupid!
This is absurd. I, and I’m sure many loyal fans, had really been enjoying seeing Genie in the forefront. It seemed GH was starting to have some quality store lines again with her involvement in Charles Street and the mayoral campaign. This news is pitiful. Perhaps if Laura were one to wield a gun or act like a hand grenade rolling around ready to go off (like Nell or Carla or Eva), the writers could just recycle some violent/looney old storylines. Very pitiful and ridiculous news. I’ve had it with the lack of stability for this show. There’s no good… Read more »
Its a shameful travesty and I have just ended my 40 year run as a viewer of GH ! Genie Francis is and always has been the heart of the show !! I’m done !!!
A travesty, yes! So wrong! So long! So gone! How shabbily Genie has been treated–not just this awful time–but many times over her career at GH. She was used to “save” GH by director Gloria Monty; now no one is “saving” Genie from this ignominious fate. I feel so very, very sad for Genie and for all of other fans. How can anyone be so unfeeling? I say Genie is the victim of age and sexual discrimination. Who do TPTB think watches GH? And why? The answer: Long-time devoted–and, yes, “mature” viewers such as I. I feel sick. Though I… Read more »
Another thought! Genie has always talked about wanting to do comedy. I challenge some good writer out there to create a comedy for Genie. Women are marching in the millions (just yesterday!) for women to speak out. There is a great audience and hunger for great actors like Genie. Maybe Roseanne can invite her back! 🙂 🙂
I would love to see her in some Hallmark Movies. It’s becoming very popular with some past & present soap stars like Ryan Peavy, Jack Wagner., Cameron Mathison, Kristina Wagner & others.
She can be in a remake of “Golden Girls!”
I’m pretty much done after 35 years too. I was starting to tune out already because the Jason return has turned out awful. It’s all about this Killy nonsense. But now with Genie, we see Frank at work, nothing has changed. His priority will always be his pets and Vets will be used randomly to prop the show when his pets send the ratings plunging and then when they get a boost like now with Burton, and Frank is safe for a while, he reverts to screwing GH Vets and focusing on his pets. Just watch Howarth take center stage… Read more »
Right, John. I sensed something ominous when out of the blue Laura dropped out of the mayor’s race because Spencer broke both legs while skiing. My sense of forbearance was intensified when I realized Alexis had just offered Laura her legal services for her campaign on the heels of her turning her ex husband and good friend Ned down for the same services. Now, where shall Alexis turn next now that Laura is out as mayor? Could it be that wife abusing murderer Julian will run for mayor thereby adding insult to injury to this injustice? They better not go… Read more »
Harry, you said it! And very well indeed. I agree–tired of Character Redemption 101!
My gosh, Harry….you called it !! This means that she must have found out recently, otherwise “they” would not have made her go through the mayotal ‘race’, in the first place. Wow!!!! Can “they” do that? Was she blindsided? Awful…I love Genie Francis. Maybe she’ll make a Y&R comeback….that would be grand…..
@CeeCee….No sooner than I posted the appalling prospect that Alexis would be the one to run for the office of Port Charles mayor, I received your supposition of the same. (Oh, dear Lord, perish that thought!!!!!) Well. great minds do think alike, mia amica!
i’m going to cry reading this stuff.
travesty shame pitiful where are their minds
John, she was barely on the show. Go ahead, walk away, its your loss.
She had more of a presence in the scenes she was in than many 3x a week actresses.
As for your Golden Girls comment, Genie is 4-5 years younger than Finola Hughes and Nancy Grahn. Are you suggesting they be “put out to pasture” too?
Certainly not the lovely and gracious Finola!!!! On the other hand….
Lol @ Shay!!!! Not so veiled Nancy / Alexis dislike? Do tell!!!
@Jovin…Well, if the cowbell fits…..Ding, ding, ding!!!!!
Am discharging myself out of GH. I always enjoyed Miss Francis and the Laura character. Both provided a sense of humanity to a daytime drama that has become to reliant on mob violence, an unreal regard for mental illness and consequences for actions, and science fiction. It is a show filled with great talents and rich histories and awesome possibilities built on a solid foundation of a community center, the hospital. What a disappointment.
it’s disheartening what a disappointment this show may be going
Laura and Spencer w/Kevin. you dream of stuff like this
WHAT ? in Gods name have they gone and done? shellacked bombs away
woah
I’m just sick about this. Heartbreaking. I love Laura and Kevin. Stupid stupid decision.
Stupid decision by the show. PLEASE go back to DAYS Genie!
Yes,I like that idea
I would readily LOVE to see Y&R give Genevieve another go round with that hot aussie – what’s his name
that stud
you know him – Robert, Tristan, Colin
Hey, that’s what I just said…LOL… well, Patrick you said it before me.
Imagine Genevieve in a triangle, trying to get Colin back……what will Jill do?
Stupid decisions from tptb are what are ruining GH! The only story I actually was enjoying was the mayoral story and Laura/Kevin! They need to get Genie back asap!!!
Betsy, eyes on your own paper, lol… I have loved the pairing of Laura and Kevin, I remember that first night they spent together at the MetroCourt, and were playing PacMan, and Genie was laughing and having so much fun. And Kevin says, I still cannot believe that you have never heard of or played PacMan, what were you doing in 1980-82??? And that nod to history with Laura’s reply, well I was rather busy during that time… That was “PURE GOLD” right there, and I laughed out loud that I actually could NOT stop laughing, everytime I thought about… Read more »
You said it well, Buddy.
WTF GH?
Exactly, Erin. I wouldn’t blame Genie if she never returned to GH. Forty years of their wishy washy s**t where Genie is concerned. Enough is enough. Maybe a competing show will pick her up and give her a kick ass opportunity. And if GH ratings take a hit from this, oh well, they have themselves to thank.
You said it Carrie. TPTB at the alphabet network have never treated Ms. Francis with the respect she has earned and so richly deserves. Supposedly, the years of “wishy-washy s**t” she has endured were related to Geary’s ego. Now he’s gone and they are still yanking her around. Unfortunately there is no place else to go. Y&R wasted her when she was there. I’ve heard she was unhappy at Days. B&B is the same company at Y&R and I doubt they’d give her anything meaningful to do. I wouldn’t blame Genie if she went home and stayed there. That would… Read more »
I agree, Erin. Also agree with Carrie. I’m done with GH, I hope they do take a ratings hit. Then maybe all the game playing will cease. One can hope!!
the total disrespect – Shelley and Frank just shit on this genre. they STINK bad
I’ve always shared how I thought the salaries of Michael Easton and even Roger Howarth could be better served …..
and they totally served up a huge let
this isn’t going to go away – this has severed GH
This is terrible news, why on earth did they do that to Genie. We love her, she’s the Queen of day time. I was so looking forward to seeing her as Mayor and enjoying her story. Now there’s no chance of that. And if the article is correct, holy cow, only have her on a dozen times a year. God Forbid! I feel betrayed by this, as a long time viewer, seeing the Vets on our show is a warm fuzzy feeling, it connects us with past shows, it shows a continuation of great viewing. When someone with her qualifications… Read more »
I totally agree with you
What a HUGE mistake …… HUGE. !!
agree with you — too bad
betrayed; at a loss ; clear DIVIDE
how could any thing the fab4 do to circumnavigate … they are not good actors
I said all I was going to say what does abc have against her?? I have met this woman twice a sweet human being when they are in the middle of a shit storm in Hollywood you idiots pull this, she was not happy at Days maybe time to just forget it move on! Love ya Genie prayers are with you!
At that time Genie wasn’t happy with DAYS, but time heals all wounds. The way I understood that situation all those years ago is Genie was upset that there didn’t seem to be a plan for her character, but the truth is she was being used a lot in good story…Now, fast forward to GH and it’s failure to use her and deciding to bump her…a far cry from what DAYS did. Genie, DAYS and it’s fans appreciated you. And you have many fans who would gladly have you back in Salem. You’re an actor who should be acting and… Read more »
*far worse than what DAYS did!
Thanks I agree you are right but not sure Ron is a fan??? But as my best friend said they have not been using her in story for a long time I will always appreciate and admire what she did for the genre and wish her always the best she has a loving family and is that not what comes first?
i watched General Hospital and DAYS since 1966 but stopped watching GH when Luke and Laura left the show the first time. Laura was the building block of GH. I’m still watching DAYS. Genie please come over to DAYS.
YEEEES, 4ever!!!!
“… they are in the middle of a shit storm ”
“RIGHT ON”
“Shelley and Frank ” are you their
they truly do think they’ve laid the golden goose… to think that Carly / Sonny / Jason / Sam are going to keep them.
this sucks
Patrick
Shelly is not to blame here. She was caught off guard — as witnessed by Laura’s abrupt withdrawal from the mayoral race.
Lot’s of other criticisms can be directed at Shelly, but this one is all on Frank!
I think it’s a horrible decision but in all honesty I wasn’t happy with how they utilized her talent/character for the longest time. First, they barely had her react to Nicolas’ death. She was given a letter with clues but it dragged on so long and sporadically that I don’t even remember what was in it and if whatever it was was solved! They then just had her be momma bear/grandma to Lulu/Spencer. Her onscreen time with Kevin was minimal. They dressed her like Whistler’s Mother. She FINALLY gets married, she runs for mayor and then she’s run out of… Read more »
Well Rebecca they kicked the Queen out of the castle and no I am not going to start blaming other actors it’s show biz she and Tony still have the honor of the highest grossing episode their wedding just still can’t figure this out but like I said prayers to Genie !
agree, k/kay. seem like with Luke, Lucky and Nic gone; now Spencer they just didn’t widen her circle.
If I’m correct Wally Kurth (Ned) isn’t on contract either. But, thankfully, we’ve been seeing a lot of him. Love the character and the actor.
I hear you but I’m not surprised. GH has been going this way for quite some time and I never believed she’d have a real story this time around because the rest of what’s going on is so anti-Classic GH story and vets. I give it up to Genie for not taking on the 12-ep recurring status and telling them to GTH. LOL Cheers to her! I kind of wish the other Classic women vets, the few there are, would do the same in protest of Genie’s treatment but I don’t judge them if they decide not to do so.… Read more »
Hi JMER… I don’t necessarily think it’s about equality for women. I think it’s actually more of a “relevance” issue. They haven’t made Laura relevant in a long time. Yes, she’s a vet and played an important part of GH history. The Luke & Laura era was all the rage as we know. But as a standalone character she just hasn’t had much to do and her story isn’t the most compelling, for me, at least…and hasn’t been. On the other side of the coin, she’s been a mother figure for a while now. To Lulu, obviously, but also to… Read more »
Rebecca, you may have missed the episode in which Laura gave a from- the-gut, heart rendering performance provoked by the death of her son Nikolas. It was hard to watch without tears brimming in your eyes and certainly on par, if not better, than Ava’s self-pitying, over-the-top naval gazing scenes which dominated an entire episode last week. I don’t mean to blame this on Maura West as this is not her fault. However, it’s hard not to see the law of cause and effect in operation here. Ava, a fairly new character for whom most have not made an emotional… Read more »
Amen and amen!
Hey, Har.. No. I don’t remember that. Maybe I did miss it…but, either way, for me, Laura seemed to have moved on too quickly. Compare her reaction to Sonny and Carly’s losing Morgan. Now, granted, it doesn’t make for compelling viewing to watch people grieve for weeks on end, but at least it was realistic. I can’t imagine getting over the death of a child in the amount of time Laura did. And, let me clarify. I don’t think anyone EVER gets over loss, but I mean Laura didn’t seem grief-stricken too long. Compare also Anna losing Duke. On the… Read more »
As much as I love Ava, I must agree with you here, Harry…..makes no sense!!
Harry, Buddy, Thanks for your reply below in this thread. The Planet of the Apes’ reference: Priceless! And I believe what you’re saying here is that Genie always gave an amazing performance (as in the episode you mention), yet this is how they treat her…
Just a look at this particular thread — and all the complaints therein — is evidence of how the fans feel about this outrageous decision by GH. Unless they reverse course, they WILL pay a price for this…
You’re absolutely right, Rebecca! You have expertly highlighted the current state of affairs with the character of Laura. History has shown continual shabby treatment of Genie Francis by the GH brass. This is simply the latest slap in the face in a long line of idiotic decisions. Further, GH has a history of poor treatment (or firings) of veterans. Bottom line for me: GH has been exceedingly lucky to have Francis. That she has been willing to grace their mob-centric stage with her stellar acting, class, and beauty is far more than this show has ever deserved… What GH truly… Read more »
Hi James…thank you. Oh, I agree with much of what you said and IF my post to Harry appears, I explain further what I think. (LOL, we never know, after writing a soliloquy, if it ever sees the light of day!) But I’m still not hoping for cancellation. It would be nice if there was some way to show the powers-that-be our anger at this latest cut (I’m still pissed about AJ and Mac and not having Ned full time…) without shooting ourselves in the foot and losing the show altogether. Maybe fans should stop going to those fan events.… Read more »
All those things you cite about not being happy about how they used Genie–I concur. They haven’t used Genie very much–though she had a contract for 3 years. We saw her on the average about once a week. “Discarded” is an apt word. Thrown away like a tissue.
Thanks, Nancy.
I didn’t even realize Genie had a 3-year contract. Perhaps MF mentioned it in his post and I didn’t see it but are they breaking the contract (didn’t they break Rebecca B’s?) or just not renewing.
“Thrown away like a tissue..” LOL. Yep.
it all boils down to couples who are gelling they may not have – even good story – yet look @Mac and Felicia.. JUST LOVE THEM to bits and when they do show.. Laura and Kevin… heck… it’s like all is right with the world. IT IS you dream about love… we get to see two chemistry me out. woah… you don’t mess with two complete ps: the one thing I was so upset about.. is watching Laura get ballistic about Lulu and Charlotte. w/Valentin. I agree with you (not utilizing a characters worth) which could be said about all… Read more »
Hey, Patrick…
I’d love more Mac. (Doesn’t “Felicia” look gorgeous? The woman doesn’t age!!!)
But, Mac doesn’t seem his old self. LOL…I’m smiling as I write this. As if we know his “old self.’ But what I mean is even the few times he’s been on it’s been kinda goofy…I liked Mac the dad to Robin, Georgie, Maxi, Mac the husband and Mac the very competent head-on-his shoulders capable man who ran the dept and was the giver of good advice.
Talk about discarded! He barely had time to turn in his badge before he was tossed out the GH doors!
As K/kay said…”right in the middle of a sh*t storm in Hollywood.” And then there were this weekends marches. I was also upset when they gave Jessica Tuck/Cassandra, an actress I really like, a terrible character to portray, and then got rid of her as well. But they never seem to get rid of any of the other bad dudes in Port Charles…like Sonny.
I think Cassandra will be back; she’s got good villainess potential!
Hello Rebecca! I got a kick out of your “writing a soliloquy” line. 🙂 I certainly enjoy them, and I’ve written my fair share of them. But to be brief today, I am stating that cancellation is what GH deserves (unless they change course), not necessarily what I wish will happen.
Buddy Lee Brown has (below) admiringly provided invaluable contact information for GH/ABC. As fans unhappy with this decision, we should be making the calls, sending the e-mails, and being squeaky wheels!
Haha…thanks, Jamesj! To be or not to be… 😉
Come on; they bring back Faison maybe for a while and send Laura (Genie Francis) off to be with her grandson shortly after she plans to run for mayor and gets married. I don’t think so. I love Maura West as an actress, but her story-line is getting a little out there. Please keep Genie Francis on. She’s true General Hospital royalty. So sad. I truly don’t know if I’ll continue watching.
Absolutely, Connie Burt!!! Laura is the heart and soul of GH and she was finally just getting re-established as her own person in Port Charles after having to cower in the shadow of Luke for decades in order to placate Anthony Geary’s wishes and now the showrunners are once again sending her off-canvas for more cold storage in the always convenient Europe? For shame, for shame! Why is it this iconic player cannot get the respect and substantial storyline she has both earned and deserved on this soap when we are constantly subjected to the unnecessary ad nauseam antics of… Read more »
Thank you Connie and Shay.
And here’s the rub–I think that wife abusing murderer Julian is going to run for mayor.
They better not go there. It just feels like Laura has been sacrificed for that hideous Jerome family.
Hey wis that sweet woman lots of love and let’s wish her the best she should write her memoirs I am sure she would have a lot to say!
Shay…Y-E-S…THANK YOU!!!!! To me, Genie’s character of Laura has ALWAYS BEEN THE BEST female character on the show!!!!! Oh…and Shay…you are SO RIGHT ON about Alexis, Ava and Nina…to me, those 3 AIRHEADS are nothing but UNWATCHABLE AND EVEN MORE STOMACH-CHURNING TV…BEYOND BLECH!!!!!!!!!! Bottom Line Here: Genie Francis deserves WAY BETTER than this…WAY BETER!!!!!!!!!!
Have a good one, Shay.
Quick correction: BETTER and not BETER. My bad.
Later.
You said it, Shay!
“….all of whom cannot hold a candle to this beloved and well-regarded legacy character??? ” OK – the dams breaking I mean really.. of course their has to be a hierarchy.. where stuff is left alone should be written for – “…ad nauseam antics of such similarly-aged femmes as the obnoxious Alexis, annoying Nina and trashy Ava ” CARLY – she’s such a waste of time… she generates no warmth… she’s immature she’s FAKE I like using the word beacon… Genie Francis IS. having known.. this.. did they bring back Leslie Webber for what ? a show of good faith… Read more »
LOL, Shay…you’re the best with pinning the right names on characters…
….but, my I find humor in what Harry said, below. Julian for Mayor? How about Alexis? LOL….live happily ever after in the mayoral mansion…frolicking like kids ( barf) to their hearts content. Ha!!
@Harry……Worse yet, Laura has been sacrificed for that hideous Alexis…
Was this done to pay for SB? Her storyline with Kevin is a breath of fresh air. They prove that over the age of 30/40, mature adults can be sexy, in love and vital! I am growing a little tired of the Jason/Drew storyline and GH dropped the ball on this decision. Take a page from DOOL, which is on fire right now, thanks to Ron Carlivati. He believes in utilizing the veteran actors/characters.
Thank you for your thoughts on age and sexuality! There’s a bit of ageism on this site regarding that and it’s nice to hear someone besides me voice that!
🙂
Yeah, the timing is suspect. Maurice Benard just re-inked a deal, too. Need we remind GH that these are precarious times and I hope they didn’t lowball her to accommodate the male co-stars, one of which was gone for 5 years. They dropped Rebecca Budig as well when Steve Burton came back. No doubt, Sarah Joy Brown’s allegations about pay inequality are true. Very sad, indeed. Anyway, back to Genie; this is a missed opportunity for sure. I was only interested in the Charles Street story because of Laura’s involvement and her ability to tap into the rich GH history.… Read more »
I agreed 100%
Come on now Lew! Ron may be writing for vets at DAYS now, but we can hardly say he did that at GH! He destroyed Luke and Laura, he decimated the Quartermaines even further than they had been, he sidelined most of the vets to feature his creations. His GH was an unrecognizable mess!! Under Frank, he seemingly had carte Blanche to do whatever it wanted, and it left GH a broken hollow shell of a show that took 2 years to get back on track! I agree that DAYS is really good right now, and of course Ron gets… Read more »
I wasn’t a fan of Ron’s, when he became the head writer for OLTL, but while a GH, his writing style grew on me. The guy is creative and knows how to spin an interesting tale. DAYS is benefiting from that. Even the actors seem to be enjoying the stories they are telling. Genie Francis is a good actress and as she has done in the past, will find work elsewhere.
I am not normally a defender of Ron, but Luke and Laura were over a long time before he was head writer. Tony Geary was had no desire to play that story anymore.
@Lew S….Before we speculate that this decision was based upon the need to fund Steve Burton’s return, it should be noted that it’s also been reported that the actress who portrays Jordan was just renewed as a contract player, which begs the question why was this considered a necessity over retaining Genie’s iconic Laura? We are speaking of a character who is so unremarkable that she hasn’t exactly set Port Charles on fire as their police chief…she could have. Easily been replaced by Anna! I certainly cannot understand why such a superfluous player was given precedence over one like Laura,… Read more »
Well said Shay. ITA. Perfectly on point.
I hope that we also are not seeing less of Kevin.
I’ve made it quite known… Jon Lindstrom portraits sex’y
Your so right, Jon is extremely sexy! 🙂
Yes, they can Lew S…..I think we spoke of this before, my friend…..life begins at 40. With decorum.
I loved the purity of Laura’s and Kevin’s love scenes.
@CeeCee….And both Genie and her Laura have decorum in spades! Just as an aside, mia amica, this talented actress is also a gifted painter and avid, top notch knitter! (I know you will especially appreciate that latter one…) Her projects are often featured on her Twitter page…just bought more yarn!!!!
It has NOTHING to do with Steve Burton and NOTHING to do with her age, there were no more stories to be told. Countless writers have tried, its over!
At least she was spared the indignity her daughter nearly suffered at the hands of Peter,,, I mean Heinrich!……..Being sent to a cat show! (I thought of you when this was mentioned, Timmmbo…MEOW!)
I think this really glosses over the inequality in daytime. Just a week ago Sarah Joy Brown tweeted that she was paid half what both her male costars, MO and Sbu were paid, even after she won 3 emmys. I believe there is no better example of the systemic sexism in daytime tv than the way Genie has been treated her entire career. Compare it to the treatment Tony got, and it’s a no brainer.
This is unacceptable.
#TimesUp ABC
Well said except is it just Disney/ABC or the other two networks as well?
clap
standing ovation
the systemic sexism indeed
I truly love stating… it’s a good laugh and joke what I witness with : Sonny and Jason
REAL-ly
Geary is a male and made more BUT he had leading role, front burner stories that were connected to other stories. Genie did not!
Genie IS a “golden girl”! 🙂
And Genie ALWAYS had a leading role (BEFORE Geary, for heaven’s sake!), front-burner stories that were ALWAYS connected to other stories because the writers integrated all characters in the stories. Have you seen any of the 70s and 80s scenes with Genie on Youtube? Genie was brought on expressly by producer Gloria Monte to “save” GH from cancellation–and she wrote storylines to feature her. Genie was all of 17, carrying the show on her back.
Nancy Dillingham, EXACTLY!!! Before Luke came along, Genie was like 14-15 posing in the basement for Lesley and then hubby Cam Faulkner’s “friend” and when he began telling her that she was only a stupid foolish child, when she picked up the paperweight and hit him in the head, killing him… With Lesley taking the blame and going to jail… IT WAS Genie taking over the role of Laura and Gloria Monte taking Ivor Francis and Genie out to lunch to tell them what she wanted to do with Laura, to save the show from cancellation, by bringing in the… Read more »
Sorry, I forgot to finish, David Hamilton was the one that at that time, Laura Faulkner killed, lol….
I haven’t watched GH for 50-40-30-20 years and Laura has been little or nothing to me with the exception that she was always a boring character.
ohh I have just been informed that Geni has not been exclusive with GH..
She has spent many years with other soaps. And- if one were to add her years with GH in comparison to her total years with other soaps that GH would come in last.
Anyways.. to the fans of Laura sorry you’re losing her.
su0000, you have your “facts” so wrong! It is apparent that you haven’t watch GH or Genie.
Gh years before your time was about to be cancelled they brought this 14 year old kid along with Kin Shriner made a teenage romance and the ratings went up so respect is all any of ask for her without her all these people from different soaps would not have south jobs might say to them they might want to think the Queen but yes I for one am done with the show wish no Ill will to them but Frank my darling Karma has a way of kicking us back. I think most people are upset at the lack… Read more »
I don’t see it as big deal.. she is an actress and they are let go its show business. She got one award in 2006, that’s it. Luke was the one that kept on when she Quit and went to another soap.. Luke never left GH as Laura has done. Both Luke and Laura rose to soap fame because of a wedding. Laura/Genie is a soap legend as many other’s are and many of the legends are gone, also… it is what can happen. Laura is not nor ever has been a sop god, she is a legend because of… Read more »
i’m jumping on the bandwagon just to stick it TOO Shelley and Frank
you were so spot on , from the start.. the snooze fest that transpired and will not let up.. going on 3 years plus.
plus Jean.
the stink on shit is in their corner
hey Patrick .. Love him or hate him GH never ‘snoozed’ under RC.. It was a shame that FV brought Luke back with the Fluke stuff After RC was writing him out.. Also, it was a shame Luke/Tonys exit was mostly in FV;s hand.. Nonetheless, RC will forever be in the hall of great stories 60’s black & white episode.. I’d bet RC has not turned DOOL into a snooze fest. GH needs to clean its writer’s house.. it needs new blood. younger blood, Chris seems to be OK.. I dunno, but now being Genie said No to the recurring… Read more »
Thank you su0000 for the many of us whole like Genie, are infuriated, and will miss her. Wonder if this will eventually affect one of your favorite subjects…Neilson ratings. 🙂
Just a little info for You up there su0000…
That recreation of the first episode in B&W was totally written by Elizabeth Korte, NOT RC, just to set the record straight…
A lot of us our hurting over this. Time and time again you slam Genienie and ignore her contribution to GH. If you don’t have anything nice to say …
hi Justin ..
I strongly suggest you reread my post with comprehension.
I did not say one bad word of Genie. I did not ”slam” her”,
I had clearly said–
— ”I also read the anger, the upset, the sadness of many.
I wish for all of your happiness that perhaps she will return for all of you.
It is truly seen that her fans are not happy.
So- here’s hoping you will get Laura back” ….
I accept your apology 🙂
General Hospital you suck 50 years I’ve been watching the show and you’ve done this stupid act of getting rid of her come on what’s wrong with you it’s all money using it
I am a writer, yet this news has robbed me of any way to possibly express the depth of my rage. This is a discarding of the show’s very heart, and soul, and link to its most glorious history. It also reeks of the sexism that is a hallmark of Frank Valentini’s management decisions. Remember his attempt to discard Rebecca Herbst? No male actor has ever been subjected to the leaks about how his negotiations were failing. The announcement that Rebecca Budig was being fired was released the very same week that GH announced Steve Burton’s return. Now, in the… Read more »
I am going to piggy back on Tristan’s well written voice of outrage in order to offer my vote of concurrence Utterly outraged. And this, on the heels of an episode which was solely dedicated to Ava. In fact, GH seems dedicated to redeeming the following hideous characters–Ava, Julian, Nina, Franco and of course, Sonny as is par for the course. And now adding insult to injury. it looks like that scum bag, wife abusing pig Julian might run for mayor in Laura’s stead? I mean, REALLY? And of course Alexis will be by his side making goo-goo eyes at… Read more »
We can only hope, Tristan! Whilst I wasnt sorry to see newbie Budig or her Hayden depart GH, it’s quite another matter to watch Genie face this situation yet once again! How Valentini gets away with his obviously dismissive behavior against beloved legacy players time and time again in order to protect the interests of his personal favorites who often really add little to the overall impact of the show is beyond me…His stubborn reluctance to address the lack of necessity for characters like Nina, Jordan, Nurse Amy, and yes, even Ava, Julian and Alexis if we’re going to be… Read more »
Your writing speaks well for itself re Genie. Kudos–I agreed wholeheartedly.
“…this news has robbed me ”
beautiful … robbed of the serial recipe that Laura should be dealt
how can I ? now.. give any credence to Sonny / Carly / Jason / Sam / Michael / Nelle / Finn / Franco
CHARACTERS who have NO DEPTH.. why should I feel for them ?
OK i’m always going to give Roger Howarth opportune time. ugh ! even if his salary would be better served with Robin Christopher… Skye Quartermaine anyone?
how can any one swallow any thing now?
Hear! Hear! Tristan.
GH is all mafia all the time.
She’ll end up at Days with Ron.
GH is of no interest to me anymore.
There is nothing at all that would indicate that either Ron or the higher ups at Days would have any interest in Genie. I would rather she write that book that delves into all the underground details of daytime TV production and tell the world how mysoginistic and ugly TPTB really is. She would never work there again, but after THIS time I can’t imagine that she would want to.
That’s an amazing idea Elizabeth!!! (The dirty little soap secret book!) She really should! #Timesupforsoapstoo! 😉
I was just watching gh and was puzzled why the running for mayor storyline suddenly to a wrong turn, then my second thought was that Genie Francis was going on a long vacation and all that change when I saw a tweet from daytime Confidential, for a second I was puzzle and hoping it was a bad rumor, but then soap central said the same thing and now my last confirmation by Michael Fairman, needless to say I’m really disappointed, I don’t even know where to begin or who to blame, but my only comfort is that everyone from fans… Read more »
“…GH was on a roll what a bad way to begin the new year. ”
I truly have been giving GH the benefit of the doubt… I rally about the fab 4 enough
yeah this is bad taste and I can’t see how Shelley and Frank can get out of this one
the writing is weak enough… just to see Laura onscreen when we can CARRIED
This is wrong on every level and so disrespectful to Genie and her fans. I love the show and think the entire cast is excellent but there are several other characters that should go before Laura ever should! I hope TBTB hear from enough outraged fans that they correct this stupid decision!
THIS IS NOT RIGHT!!!!!!!!!!! A WONDERFUL BEAUTIFUL ACTRESS OUT LIKE THIS……FOR HEAVANS SAKE WE HAVE TO SIT THRU SOME REALLY DUMB STORY LINES…..MAN-LANDERS, NOW FAISON, AND SO MANY THAT COULD BE DROPPED…NOT GENIE FRANCIS!!!! G.H. IS REALLY DROPPING THE BALL!!!
The Man Landers story was the worst thing in 2017, for sure!
Yes, and how much screen time did they devote to that THING???
i’m in a riotous mood
Shelley and Frank have got to go
“Frank” you think you are all that… RC was never the problem
GH just screwed up. Why put her on recurring? Who are they bringing back that they gave to cut her salary.? The SL was going to be so great with her running and winning the mayoral election. She really deserves better than this slap in the face.
I’m wondering if Genie Francis would have been willing to take a pay cut in return for staying on contract.Now maybe Genie would have said no to taking a pay cut but maybe she should have been asked at least.
Her show minimum guarantee was already so low that a pay cut wouldn’t have mattered. Was Maurice Benard (who just re-upped) asked to take a cut in either $ or minimum episodes?
Gh needs to wake up! We are losing our fabulous Gh vets because of Frank and his pets! Half the cast is new and getting more time than the vets. The fans want GH VETS! Get rid of the waste! Frank and his writers need to go , they suck! Frank is trying to hire all his OLTL pple. Pple need to stop with its SB ‘s fault too this is on Frank!
You said a mouthful!!! Frank and his crew need to go. They are ruining just about every character on the show
He has no respect for long time characters, actors and fans! He and his writers are writing about what THEY want not what fans want. The list of fabulous actors that we no longer have is a joke. To put a long time vet on recurring when it wasnt asked for is insulting! Genie, Steve, Tyler, Tristan and many others deserved better! Frank and regime need to be gone!
I don’t know what Frank’s problem is, but it’s more evident every day he is clueless. He dares to do this to Genie Francis, the Queen of Soaps. Why? Did he need the money cause he just gave MB, who can’t get through a scene without reading his cue cards, a raise in his new contract? ABC needs to understand GH fans don’t want their long-time legacy characters sacrificed for the characters we don’t care about like Nelle and Nina. I was holding on to watching this show by a thread, which gets thinner every day. And if you take… Read more »
to be so dissatisfied
yes I am
I cannot believe the steer at what drives Shelley and Frank
they think… they truly believe Carly and Sonny are IT. they truly are laying all their eggs on Jason and Sam
OMG… Michael and Nelle.. do nothing
Finn does nothing
so much waste with all the rest of the cast
Michael & Nelle are SO boring.
Carly talking about Nelle is SOOO boring
So disappointed. What is wrong with the writers. I don’t know if I want to watch GH anymore. It’s not going to last anyway, the way they are getting rid of so many great actors. So ridiculous…
I am SHOCKED that GH dropped Genie & Laura’s story!!! I have watched GH since 1978 & I am a HUGE fan! I was LOVING the story of Laura & Kevin as well as Laura vs. Ned in a mayoral campaign. Wonderful to see the homage to history & Mary May Ward & see Laura pick up the torch to save Charles Street. How wonderful it would have been to see Laura & Kevin walk into the Mayor’s manse now just like Laura did so many years ago but this time as the MAYOR and not as a wife (especially… Read more »
Well said Patricia!
Thank you! 🙂
Yes! Yes!
Great post Patricia!
Agree completely! I thought about TIMES UP! too! It is discrimination for age and sex and so much more! Everything was building with her and getting her place back with great possibilities, and it would have been so good to see her as the mayor and really use her in the show!
Thanks for such a fabulous post!
Thank you! I’m so sick/sad over this …. I see all these posts (so many fans are). Genie/Laura is the heart & soul of GH & deserves so much better!!! & it did seem like this Mayor/Charles Street story was really going some place great with Laura , Kevin, Ned and Olivia. Sad. Very Sad. 🙁 🙁 🙁
Im done with GH…
This is shameful, GH needs to do better. I’m hoping the outcry will change things. I’ve already called the GH comment line to express my disappointment in letting Genie go. She’s an icon of Daytime and deserves some respect. I don’t understand what the hire ups at this show are doing.
omg…this is beyond terrible , GH just did a standalone eppy for Ava , a character who is just coming up to a 5 yr run on GH , & they can do all for this character but can’t write for the character of Laura who is an iconic character , & come on FV , you throw GF/Laura aside & then have the gaul to ask GF to do a dozen or so appearances a yr. Why not throw Ava aside & ask her to do a dozen or so appearances a year. And yes , you can bet… Read more »
I know. The Ava-exclusive episode on Wednesday was a bore.
Yes, in the words of Katherine Hepburn: Boyah! Boyah! Boyah! 🙂
Soap Gal! Yes, this exactly. Thank you.
Let’s see, Grade A actress Genie Francis tossed aside for a grade Z actor whose name I can’t say out loud because of the bile that rises immediately after. Perhaps Valentini thinks he is being innovative and wise with these decisions but he is failing BIG TIME. Laura is a vital character on the show. She gives the show history and strength and compassion. And yet all we get is a worn out story about a mobster’s assistant and his inability to have any emotion. He lives to fight, kill and complain. Whatever…Ron Carlivati has DAYS smoking for now………Take a… Read more »
“thank you” god I loved Genevieve. she was new real and laid out
a lot of reason came about
@GH. that smarts I never got real enough. I got enough ball from what it is
I was thrilled that Genie Francis was finally getting her own storyline. Maybe Frank Valentini should go . He has made some bad decisions. He let aTyler Christopher and Rebecca Budig and let Steve Burton leave the first time . Genie Francis was finally going to get out of Tony Geary’s shadow.
salute – yeah no matter how long the battle cry
Frank Valentini should be fired
his direction.. w/ Shelley and Jean.. spiraled the spirit of GH. that’s a lot.
I can take god it’s difficult because of let.. Carly sonny Jason sam Michael Nelle finn franco
GOD that’s the whole show
why am I doing this
QUIT THIS SHOW
I always liked the character (and the actress), but I must admit I was thinking recently that her character has been in rather pointless storylines the last year. Too bad Tyler Christopher (and Spencer) are gone, which hurt her storylines.
I think she should see an attorney thru the VERY STRONG SOCIAL/POLITICAL womens movement in Hollywood !!!!! She has had the build up to some GREAT storylines that are just starting to blossom !!!!! Thanks !!!
I hope Genie will post her #metoos–and spill all the shameful things that she has had to put up with. Genie, use that righteous anger to write your truth. I’ll read it! And it can shoot to #1! 🙂
The time is right for an expose on the dirty deeds that happened to you. I’m also a writer–and I’ll help you write it!!!!! 🙂 🙂
Me thinks Genie is too much of a class act to do a “not-kiss-and-tell”……..perhaps she will write her memoirs one day—-I certainly hope so!—-but I sense the time for that moment is not yet at hand. Unlike so many of her contemporaries, this actress is not a desperate fame-w#@re…she doesn’t make a spectacle of herself on Twitter, parade about as scantily-clad mutton-dressed-as-lamb or try to pass herself off as decades younger by conducting herself in a provocative, trashy manner onscreen. She is a consummate, old-school professional whose disciplined work ethic and incredible talent have always spoken volumes in and of… Read more »
Enough with the attorneys, she is gone, thats life!
But that doesn’t take away what must be Genie’s real pain and our sorrow. Her heart is surely heavy as is mine. I feel her pain and empathize with her hurt.
They would never pull this stunt with MB–Genie at this stage of her career and place in the show’s history should be untouchable–and there is no logical reason for it other than Frank wanted to do it—if I were her I would tell to take their dozen episodes and shove them where the sun don’t shine– if they want to get rid of Laura then they should do a proper goodbye, like TG got- not this lame Spencer broke two legs and she has to go out of town nonsence– respect the lady deserves it.
I agree, except for the part where TG’s goodbye was proper. His exit story was lame. They would just screw up any attempt at a proper exit story for Laura too. It’s obvious they don’t give a damn about her anyway, so I’m glad they wrote her out quickly. I’m sure Genie was ready to get the hell out of there after that crappy 12 episodes per year offer. Disgraceful move by GH.
there I go again… laughing @Sonny and Jason
their big show
GH has made some bad decisions in the past, but this has to be the worst. One of the best was putting Genie Francis on contract in 2015. While her story never really ignited until now with her marriage to Kevin and running for mayor, this really put Laura in a position for great future story! Genie Francis is the heart of GH, and if this is Frank’s doing, he needs to be replaced! He would have never done this to Erika Slezak on OLTL, who was the heart and soul of that show. I’m sure I’m not the only… Read more »
I’ve been watching since day one and I’m so disappointed that Genie is not going to be on any more or not often. She was finally getting a good character as the mayor which would have been a lot more interesting than some of the other story lines. Very disappointed.
Frank (and Varni) needs to get his priorities straight. Legacy characters Laura, Nikolas and Dillon are dropped while deVry, Stafford and Ramsey get contracts for expendable characters?
I gave Frank credit for bringing back a lot of vets (albeit recurring, except Anna). However, you don’t treat one of the stars who literally saved the show 40 years ago in this manner.
Damn right Steve.
This is about the most idiotic decision every made by GH powers that be. I may just quit viewing. Or maybe they want to cancel GH and are doing this on purpose. The storyline she’s in is so realistic and interesting. Much more so than stupid MOB stuff. Real people seldom deal with mobs and people like Faison, who I could care less about. I would prefer so Faison and more Genie. I am so angry about this. And.. if Nathan leaves and Genie’s gone, I may just find more time to read- like from 2-3 Monday – Friday. I… Read more »
I’ve been sitting on this – didn’t know how to express MY anger
i’m stupefied at their mindset – i’ll throw in Jean for good measure
Shelley and Frank have clearly upped themselves heave ho OUT OF HERE
if this show is all about Sonny Cary Jason and Sam.. then it’s all we need to know
I agree. I am not interested that much in old Jason. The mob parts of the story totally disinterest me, If we go back to mainly the Carly and Sonny show with mob enforcer Jason I’m not interested. I fast forward mob scenes, and I’m not interested in the other mob people either- the Julian and his sister mob. I loved Genie’s story and she was doing a great job.
A good reason to stop watching GH. I was happy to see GF finally getting a juicy story, and it is taken away. BTW, I didn’t like the Ava episode. It didn’t always feel like a dream to me. A waste of my time. I feel Ava should live with that small, very small scar as a reminder of her misdeeds toward Morgan. There are too many people in the world who live with some form of scars or disability. I do myself.
I’ve been watching since day one and I’m so disappointed that Genie is not going to be on any more or not often. She was finally getting a good character as the mayor which would have been a lot more interesting than some of the other story lines. Very disappointed.
Reply
This is insane. I was so excited to see her upcoming role as mayor, and her.storyline with Jon Lindstrom. Genie should be on contract and have a major storyline. What the hell, Frank V? You are about to lose me as a viewer of over forty years.
I will be tuning out. Genie is GH for me. She brought me to the show and has kept me watching. I’m done
I think this decision is a poor bed decision. We have not had a decent storyline on this show for a long time and those of us who have watched general hospital since the 70s or 80s really miss seeing the older soap stars on like Genie Francis Kevin Collins Lucy Cole and Monica Etc. And it was really exciting to us to see that Genie Francis had a real storyline. we were looking forward to seeing her fight and win the mayoral race and having a real story line with Kevin. I know the fans want her back on… Read more »
Yes Renee, WE started that petition early today, with an initial goal of 5,000 signatures, I just checked in less than 10 hours, on a Sunday, competing with all the other petitions about Government, NFL Playoffs, AND the SAG-AFTRA Awards; I just checked and We are already over 4,300 signatures. We chose actup.org to have the most impact. You can find it on My personal fb page, Buddy Brown or Ronn Rickett on fb. Also, I was up all last night, well since I watched Friday’s show in utter disbelief, and rushed re-write. Since We had multiple campaigns begging them… Read more »
Sorry, I meant the petition is on Change.org not actup, I don’t know why I keep thinking actup. You will all have to forgive Me, still recovering from the flu, and have been running on about 2 hours sleep, since Friday’s episode…
My apologies…
GH is really trying to get cancelled, they keep letting the best go. I’m ready to quit watching.
I guess it would be full circle. Genie was arguably one of the key players in saving GH from cancellation 40 years ago. If sour ratings over this news cause GH to get cancelled now, then she has the last laugh.
As a loyal viewer for over 35 years I must say FV and the powers that be at ABC messed up again, I’m done with the Sonny/Carly FV show!
-Terrible decision on GH management part. I was really enjoying the history they were bringing back to GH & using some of the older characters and now this terrible decision! I hope they regret this decision and correct it ! You’re not being fair to Miss Francis or the fans !
This is just wrong on so many levels. Genie was finally getting her own story – head of the hospital board and running for mayor to protect Charles Street. She gets bumped to recurring while Maura got a full episode devoted to her and she isn’t even a GH vet! Frank keeps his friends on contract and treats a legacy GH actress like this. GH is going downhill and is barely recognizable now with so many OLTL and other newbies on canvas. Why bother to watch when you don’t know or connect with these characters!
I have been a GH fan for years, and always loved Genie Francis as Laura, whether with Luke or not. I was really happy when she came back and was now a regular again. I was excited to see her have this major storyline running for mayor and was so excited that she married Kevin. I was very upset to learn she has been cut down to basically no role and I have decided that the best thing for me to do is not watch this soap anymore. Poor decision to cut her out.
I am glad Genie Francis said so long GH!! Why should she be on once a month;she deserves so much better.i can only see GH’S ratings sinking w/the “Sonny,Jason,Carly,Sam/Drew hour 3-4times a week.And also with a large cast to begin with. …why don’t they do away with the “needless” characters. …Freako…Finn…Amy…her brother..Peter August (Laura Wright’s. ..bf)…Kim/Oscar….Valentine & Nina & daughter Charlotte. …Jordan .
Give Maxie a real s/l (especially if Nathan exits)…along w/Dante and Lulu .
Hopefully Ron….will hire Genie as a new character on DAYS…maybe as the “real” mother to
Stephan O Dimera.
Ron’s the writer and does not make hiring decisions. That’s up to Ken, who has a tighter budget than Frank.
Never have like her ever. Nor the guy that not plays her husband.
Well, gee thank you for that insensitive, pointless opinion, Barbara.
You like kicking people when they’re down I guess.
I second that emotion, Harry!
Well as you might be able to deduce, you are in the minority for that opinion.
BARBARA…YOU MIGHT FEEL A LITTLE LOST AMONGST THIS CROWD!!!!! THESE TWO ACTORS ARE GREAT!!!!!
This disgusts me more than any casting decision they’ve made in years. Just when they finally give Genie a story worthy of her talents, they pull this BS. And why, because they have budget issues, since they have to pay Steve Burton’s ridiculous contract, or Roger Howarth or William deVry, who they re-signed in the past year? Everyone needs to get on Twitter and tweet to Frank Valentini and Nathan Varni, and tell them what a horrendous decision this is. I’ve been watching GH for 25 years, since I was in high school. I’ve defended Frank and the show many… Read more »
I too hate what’s being done to Gene (Laura). My question is why?
General Hospital
GH Alum Sydney Mikayla Talks On Her Daytime Emmy Nomination, Decision To Exit & Her Former Co-Stars
It’s been quite the banner year for Sydney Mikayla (Ex-Trina Robinson, GH) thus far, and she topped it off with her second Daytime Emmy nomination, when a few weeks ago she landed in the Younger Performer in a Drama Series category. That means, Mikayla will be vying for the gold statuette, but also against some of her dear friends and former co-stars from General Hospital.
Back in March, Mikayla revealed she was leaving the ABC daytime drama series to focus on college full-time where she is a freshman at UCLA. With Sydney’s departure came recasting the role of Trina and the part went in to the capable hands of Tabyana Ali, who is currently appearing on the soap and carrying on the Trina Robinson torch.
As the 49th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards are just around the corner (they air live next month on June 24th on CBS), Michael Fairman TV caught up with the very busy Mikayla, to get her take on all things Emmy including: the scenes she chose for her nominated reel, working alongside with Nicholas Alexander Chavez and creating what would become the popular “Sprina”, the factors that led to her departure and more. Here’s what Sydney shared below.
Your former co-stars and fellow ‘Younger Actor’ nominees, William Lipton (Cameron) and Nicholas Alexander Chavez (Spencer) appeared on my Daytime Emmy Nominations livestream special, and both share how thrilled they were that that you got nominated. I know you’re friends with them, but they just could not have spoken more highly of you.
SYDNEY: That’s so sweet! I’ve loved working with them for so long. It just feels so great to know that they said that.
Photo: ABC
What was on your Emmy reel submission that landed you the nomination?
SYDNEY: I was a little bit nervous this year, more than last year, because last year was the first time that I ever had a storyline. So, for this year, I was definitely like, “I’m not really sure how this is going to go,” because there’s just so many new elements that were happening with everything that was going on, for example: Trina getting a more acclimated relationship with her mom, and then we had Cyrus (Jeff Kober) come in for a little bit. I chose the best moments that really showcased my acting, even though it wasn’t a cohesive storyline from start to finish on my reel. I’m really glad it worked! I was a little more on pins and needles for this one, and ultimately, it turned out great.
Photo: IG
Was Nicholas Alexander Chavez in any of the scenes you submitted?
SYDNEY: He was! I got to show that soft side of Trina, which I really didn’t think we got to see, especially in my first Emmy reel, and her being vulnerable. We never see Trina really make a mistake, so that was really fun. Not that her relationship was a mistake, but more that we never get to see her slip up or say the wrong thing, or just put herself out there, and put her heart on the line. I enjoyed being able to play that and then being able to put it in my reel. Nicholas just made it so easy … what an amazing co-star. He just made me feel so comfortable. It was just really fun to do and to include. I also had scenes with the teen scene …there’s five of us! Of course, I had to include Trina’s standoff with Esme (Avery Pohl). I think, it was actually the last clip I put in on my reel.
Which was a great scene!
SYDNEY: Yes, and Avery is so sweet, but she plays evil so well. So, that was also so incredible to do, just that standoff of: ‘Who’s going to win!? Trina? Esme? What’s going to happen? What’s going to go down?’ No one knew, so that was really fun, too.
Photo: JPI
Did you include scenes between you and Eden McCoy (Joss) as bff’s Trina and Joss on your Emmy reel?
SYDNEY: Oh, of course, of course! It was some of those heartfelt bestie moments of her just kind of consoling me, and making sure everything was okay between Trina and Esme. I like those heartfelt moments that Trina had with one of her closest friends on the show, and a great friend in real life, as well.
When you found out you were nominated, who was the first person you called … or was your phone blowing up and you were receiving lots of congrats?
SYDNEY: This year, with being on a college campus and being in person for the first time, it’s really easy to get sick. So, I was not feeling too great. I was sleeping in my dorm when the nominations came out. I still keep in contact with my makeup artist from the show, Ali, and she’s so sweet. We were texting, and she was like, “By the way, congrats”, and kind of kept texting me, and I’m like, “Congrats for what?” I looked, and I was like, “Oh my gosh! I got nominated!” So that was pretty funny, and I screamed through my whole dorm! I posted a video on Instagram because I wanted to keep everyone in the loop, and I really do feel so grateful. I feel all of the support from my friends, and family, and the fans of the show. I always try to make a video every year to try to just be grateful, or say ‘thank you’ because I really want to key everyone into this journey. It was a little bit of a shock, but definitely in the midst of not feeling too well, it was the highlight of my day, for sure! Now, I am feeling that heat of finals at school, but I am so excited. The Emmy definitely breaks up the stress a little bit, so I’m very grateful.
Photo: ABC
Was there somebody you called to let them know you were nominated, though?
SYDNEY: I actually called Nicholas and William, first, to say congratulations. William had called me before I had woken up, and then I called him back, and then of course, I called my mom and dad. It was also a surprise to them. I think it was just because I had been so laser-focused on school that looking at the Emmy nominations really wasn’t the priority this year.
Could you believe how popular ‘Sprina’ became so quickly? They weren’t even a bonafide duo yet!
SYDNEY: I could not! I was really shocked, but I was excited to see how much the fans loved it, and how much the fans kind of lived through it. That in turn, gave us more of that ammo to really build that story and build that tension, and to always kind of play those moments in between. Nicholas did a really great job of that, and of challenging me to always have that subtext, under the lines. I was really shocked to see how quickly the popularity of Sprina blew up, but I’m grateful that the fans loved it for as long as they. I hope that they continue to love it with Tabyana Ali playing the part. She is such an incredible actress and powerhouse.
Photo: ABC
You were so popular in the role of Trina, and now Tabyana is bringing her take on the role. Do you check in on GH?
SYDNEY: Don’t cancel me, but no! (Laughs) I don’t have time to watch TV! I’m very serious. I’ve just had so much going on here. I’m also part of clubs, and leadership is also something that’s very important to me. I love planning things, and when you’re planning things, that also takes up your time. So, doing that along with school and just trying to keep my GPA up, I just don’t have the time to check in on it. I think that was kind of part of it for me too. On a spiritual level, I always believe that you can’t receive other things in your life, great things, acting or otherwise, until you are able to let things go, and so for me, I knew when I was leaving, I really would have to leave mentally and physically. As much as I love General Hospital (and I really cannot wait to see everyone in person, I really can’t wait to have that big reunion!), I really don’t feel like any part of me is still clinging on to General Hospital. I’m so grateful that the audience has also received Tabyana so well, because that’s exactly what I’ve always wanted. So, I’m really happy for her, and I’m really happy for both of us. I think we are both in a great place.
Was making the decision to leave GH a difficult one for you?
SYDNEY: Honestly, no. I always kind of knew in the back of my mind that it would have to come at some point because as much as I love General Hospital, I’d really been working for college for all of my life. I wish someone had told me that colleges really don’t look at anything past high school because I was working really hard in elementary and middle school too! But that’s my point, I’ve always had this dream of, “I’m going to go to college. I’m going to get that second education. I’m going to do really well. I need to get my degree, and possibly even get my doctorate.” We’ll see if I even want to go that far, but I know for sure that going to college and getting that bachelor’s was really important for me. So, I knew that took precedence over anything else in my life.
Photo: ABC
What are you studying?
SYDNEY: Right now, I’m studying sociology. That might change. Honestly, as a freshman it’s just been really general classes, still kind of general science, general math. We’ll see as time goes on if I still want to stick with sociology. So, that’s also been really fun, and just meeting people, and experiencing the college life.
You’re in a gender-neutral acting category at the Daytime Emmys … Outstanding Younger Performer. How do you feel about that because you’re actually competing against your former castmates, Nicholas and William, in the same category?
SYDNEY: Coming to college, you meet a lot of people who are non-binary. I’ve always wondered how that would work when we are going to have more actors who identify as non-binary as our generation starts to get older and as we start getting cast in these movies. I actually think we are kind of moving towards the future and in the future, it will all be smooshed together for all of the categories. We are going to eventually do away with the Best Actor and Actress because a lot of people don’t identify as either. I think either way, whoever wins is going to win. I’m just really glad to be nominated, and it works for me!
Courtesy/ABC
If a role came up in a movie or project that interested you, would you do it, or are you just only concentrating on your studies?
SYDNEY: We’ll see kind of where life takes me. It would definitely depend on so many things, of course, but if an opportunity were to present itself, it would definitely just be by a case-by-case basis. Of course, I’m definitely open to doing things in summer too. During the school year, like I mentioned, it’s really important for me to get this degree.
Photo: SMikaylaIG/ABC
Is there any favorite moment you had from your time on General Hospital as Trina that you wish you could have included in your Emmy reel, but didn’t?
SYDNEY: There were so many good moments! If I could include any moment, I would include one of the blood scenes. I had never worked with fake blood, and it was sticky, but ultimately a good experience. I was acting, but there wasn’t much of me talking. It was more everyone being concerned for me, like, “Why is she covered in blood? What’s going on?” So, I don’t think I included that as much, but if they just wanted me to include amazing makeup, then I could have put it in there! So, it’ll always be in my heart. It’ll always be in my personal reel, and I hope that counts for something!
Photo: TimSchaeffer
I’m assuming you like picking out a dress, and then walking the red carpet?
SYDNEY: I do! It’s actually funny because I don’t usually enjoy hair and makeup on a day-to-day basis, but I do think I enjoy the creativity of doing my own look for the Emmys. I get to be somewhat a little different, like a super awesome version of myself. I wonder, for celebrities who have to go to red carpets every week if they really like it, but for me to do it a few times a year, I really love it. I love choosing the aesthetic that I’m going for. This year, I’m definitely trying to do something classy and stylish. I’m super excited for you guys to see because I’m beaming even as I talk about it now!
The Daytime Emmys are back to being in-person, after two years of being virtual. Didn’t you have to tape an acceptance speech last year when you were nominated, in case your name was called?
SYDNEY: Yes! It was so funny, one of our producers, Nneka Garland, called me, and she was like, “Oh, it’s going to be in person,” and it just like, snapped for me: “Oh, this is going to be live!” I’m looking forward to that this year. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone, giving everyone real, in-person hugs! I can’t wait!
So, are you rooting for Sydney to take home the gold in the Outstanding Younger Performer category at this year’s Daytime Emmys? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
So grateful!! #GH #TeamTrina #Emmynom 🙏🏽😁 pic.twitter.com/wKXIg715c1
— sydney mikayla (@SydneyMikayla) May 5, 2022
General Hospital
GH’s Michael E. Knight Chats On: Taking on the Role of Martin Grey, Friendship with James Patrick Stuart, and All My Children’s Tad
Last Thursday night during a livestream interview, General Hospital’s Michael E. Knight chatted with Michael Fairman on You Tube’s Michael Fairman Channel about returning to daytime in the role of legal eagle Martin Grey, and mixing it up with some of the most famous notables and actors that currently and historically have graced the screens on the ABC daytime drama series.
In case you missed it, the replay of the conversation with three-time Daytime Emmy winner is now available. During the chat, Knight reveals what is has been like to play the on-screen half-brother of Genie Francis (Laura), if he enjoys the courtroom scenes in which Martin had to defend some of the most notorious in town including Nelle Benson (Chloe Lanier), and more.
Courtesy/ABC
Fans of GH are also enjoying the romantic pairing of Lucy Coe and Martin, pairing Knight with another soap vet, Lynn Herring. Michael shares that it’s nice to see, and appreciates, the writers creating a fun relationship for a couple that is middle-aged instead of always seeing the younger sets escapades all of the time on daytime TV.
All My Children fans, of course, recall Michael’s memorable performances through the years as Tad Martin, where he became synonymous with Pine Valley. After AMC came to its conclusion in 2011 on ABC and 2013 with Prospect Park, Knight finally returned to soaps in 2015 in the recurring role of Dr. Simon Neville on The Young and the Restless before joining the cast of GH in 2019.
Photo: JPI
During the interview, Michael shares behind the scenes stories of working with his on-screen parents, Mary Fickett (Ruth) and Ray MacDonnell (Joe), his enduring on-screen love story with Dixie (Cady McClain), and the heyday of AMC in story, with his on-screen sister, Jenny played by Kim Delaney. When Michael came to GH, viewers recall he actually got to share an inside moment with Kim and the fans, when Martin met Jackie Templeton, then played by Delaney.
During the livestream, Michael recalled several of Tad’s wives, and when one fan asked if Cady McClain might come to GH as Dixie, and that maybe she could be a woman from Martin’s past, Knight shared that it could be interesting.
Photo: ABC
In a surprise appearance later in the livestream, James Patrick Stuart (Valentin, GH), who has an enduring friendship with Michael, and happened to be at Knight’s house, shared some memories of his time as Will Cortlandt on All My Children. Now decades later, things have come full-circle for the good friends as they share screen-time on General Hospital as Valentin and Martin.
Stuart is a Daytime Emmy nominee this year for the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series category at the upcoming 49th annual Daytime Emmy Awards, and we took a moment to congratulate him on being acknowledged by his peers for the second year in a row. Currently, James is pulling double duty shooting his Disney+ show, Villains of Valley View, while also taping GH.
Photo: JPI
Watch the replay of the livestream with Michael E. Knight below.
Then let us know, are you enjoying Martin and Lucy together? What do you think of the idea of Cady McClain coming to GH? Do you want to see more Valentin and Martin scenes? And, what are your favorite memories of Michael’s time as Tad on All My Children? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
Breaking News
General Hospital Tapes 15,000th Episode; Featuring Genie Francis with Almost Every Single Cast Member Appearing in It
On Thursday, ABC’s General Hospital reached yet another milestone in its illustrious history. The daytime drama taped its 15,000 episode.
During the tape day, the cast, crew and creatives posed for a photo on set to mark the occasion with cake.
GH’s 15,000 episode will air next month on June 17th.
ABC 7’s entertainment guru, George Pennacchio was on set with a first-hand report, interviewing the likes of Genie Francis (Laura), Maurice Benard (Sonny) and the show’s executive producer, Frank Valentini.
From the sounds of it, the 15K episode will center around the character of Laura, and according to Valentini, “It will be happy, it will be sad, it will be dark, it will be scary, it will be fun, it will be thrilling and it will be exciting, but most importantly it will have almost every single cast member in it.”
Check out the segment and on set report from Pennacchio below.
Now, let us know if you are excited to see the 15K episode of GH via the comment below and congratulate the long-running soap for another historic milestone.
#GH celebrating ep 15,000. Will air June 17 and focus on Laura featuring almost all the cast pic.twitter.com/CG3JhyptyC
— Fe. (@moiraswigs) May 12, 2022
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Fox Announces Primetime Soap ‘Monarch’ On Fall Schedule
The Young and the Restless Daytime Emmy Nominees Talk Reactions, Reels, and Their Co-Stars
GH’s Michael E. Knight Chats On: Taking on the Role of Martin Grey, Friendship with James Patrick Stuart, and All My Children’s Tad
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DAYS OF OUR LIVES PREVIEW: Peter Reckell Returns as Bo Helps Ciara and Steve in Their Time of Need
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General Hospital Tapes 15,000th Episode; Featuring Genie Francis with Almost Every Single Cast Member Appearing in It
DAYS OF OUR LIVES PREVIEW: Peter Reckell Returns as Bo Helps Ciara and Steve in Their Time of Need
GH’s Michael E. Knight Chats On: Taking on the Role of Martin Grey, Friendship with James Patrick Stuart, and All My Children’s Tad
As the World Turns Alum Marnie Schulenburg Passes Away at 37
GH Alum Sydney Mikayla Talks On Her Daytime Emmy Nomination, Decision To Exit & Her Former Co-Stars
The Young and the Restless Daytime Emmy Nominees Talk Reactions, Reels, and Their Co-Stars
DAYS Daytime Emmy Nominees: Arianne Zucker, James Reynolds, Stacy Haiduk & Lindsay Arnold Chat On Their Reels, Reactions, and Co-Stars
Fox Announces Primetime Soap ‘Monarch’ On Fall Schedule
The Bold and the Beautiful Scores Biggest Audience in Over Two Years
The Young and the Restless Daytime Emmy Nominees Talk Reactions, Reels, and Their Co-Stars
GH’s Michael E. Knight Chats On: Taking on the Role of Martin Grey, Friendship with James Patrick Stuart, and All My Children’s Tad
DAYS OF OUR LIVES PREVIEW: Peter Reckell Returns as Bo Helps Ciara and Steve in Their Time of Need
FRIDAY: Y&R Alum Michael Graziadei Featured in Netflix’s New Series ‘The Lincoln Lawyer’
General Hospital Tapes 15,000th Episode; Featuring Genie Francis with Almost Every Single Cast Member Appearing in It
TONIGHT: General Hospital’s Michael E. Knight Live! – 8 PM ET/5 PM PST
DAYS Daytime Emmy Nominees: Arianne Zucker, James Reynolds, Stacy Haiduk & Lindsay Arnold Chat On Their Reels, Reactions, and Co-Stars
THURSDAY: General Hospital and All My Children Favorite, Michael E. Knight Livestream Interview
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Steffy Remembers Sheila Shooting Finn. .. and Her, Then Vows Revenge
WATCH: Daytime Emmy Nominations Special 2022 Replay
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Breaking NewsMay 11, 2022Josh Kelly Joins the Cast of General Hospital
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Breaking NewsMay 12, 2022General Hospital Tapes 15,000th Episode; Featuring Genie Francis with Almost Every Single Cast Member Appearing in It
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Days Of Our LivesMay 14, 2022DAYS OF OUR LIVES PREVIEW: Peter Reckell Returns as Bo Helps Ciara and Steve in Their Time of Need
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General HospitalMay 15, 2022GH’s Michael E. Knight Chats On: Taking on the Role of Martin Grey, Friendship with James Patrick Stuart, and All My Children’s Tad
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As The World TurnsMay 18, 2022As the World Turns Alum Marnie Schulenburg Passes Away at 37
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General HospitalMay 19, 2022GH Alum Sydney Mikayla Talks On Her Daytime Emmy Nomination, Decision To Exit & Her Former Co-Stars
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InterviewsMay 15, 2022The Young and the Restless Daytime Emmy Nominees Talk Reactions, Reels, and Their Co-Stars
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Days Of Our LivesMay 12, 2022DAYS Daytime Emmy Nominees: Arianne Zucker, James Reynolds, Stacy Haiduk & Lindsay Arnold Chat On Their Reels, Reactions, and Co-Stars