General Hospital
Genie Francis On Her GH Return To Work With Tony Geary One Final Time Asked: “Are You Sure He Wants Me To Be There?”
Courtesy/ABC
General Hospital fans will get their fill of some of the most beloved and familiar faces returning to the ABC soap opera for Tony Geary’s (Luke Spencer) final story before he exits the series for the last time. The show has promised a final hurrah for longstanding icons Luke and Laura played by Geary and the just returned Genie Francis (Laura Spencer)
Francis spoke to TV Line and admitted she already shared scenes with her on-screen son, Jonathan Jackson (Lucky) and Geary, and is set next week to tape her final scenes with her long-time on-screen partner in what will be an emotional moment for all.
Over the years, Tony had made no bones that he has not wanted Luke and Laura to get back together, so Francis admitted that when got the call to return to GH, and learned that Geary was exiting for good, she wanted to make sure it was truly OK with Tony for her to be a part of this. Genie related that her initial reaction to the news was like: “Really?’ [Laughs] Really really?’ And they said yes. The next question I had to ask was, ‘Are you sure he wants me to be there?’ Because he’s been very vocal about not wanting it to be Luke and Laura reuniting. My next question was, ‘Is this what Tony wants?’ And they said, ‘Absolutely.’
Francis when on to explain that fans should look for some very emotional scenes when Lucky returns in scenes with Luke and Laura: “The Lucky moments are so, so nice. There are some amazing, not-to-be-missed scenes with Jonathan Jackson and with Tony. You can’t miss them.” Genie went on to elaborate: “Oh my god, there’s some good stuff there. And the feeling when Jonathan came back on the set was, everyone was so happy. It was like he came home. They all rushed to embrace him, and then we were all so happy, we embraced each other! (Laugh) It was really an amazing moment. The crew, the directors. It was just an amazing moment.”
So what do you think of Genie checking to see if it was OK that Tony wanted him back for his swan song on GH? Are you looking forward to seeing Jonathan Jackson with Genie and Tony? Do you feel in a perfect world the end game for Luke should be Tracy or Laura, or just for him to be by himself? Share your thoughts below!
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Ive tried for years to convince folks there was animosity between TG and GF to no avail. Nice for the truth to finally come out.
Her comments have nothing to do with animosity between the two. It was all about the storyline.
I’m sorry Eileen, but I have first hand knowledge that’s completely not true. Tony has gone on record saying that Luke and Laura should not re-unite (and so has Genie for that matter) but they’ve always gotten along personally as well as professionally and he has no animosity toward her.
Then explain if the character of Laura was what he objected to so muck, he actively tried to prevent the show show bringing her back. She could be Laura on GH and not intersect with him at all. But he didnt want Genie back not as Laura or anyone else. She has been vocal about the way he feels about her. If u think otherwise, stay in lala land.
Never got there was any animosity between them, Geary just felt the couple had run their course, and I agree.
I still don’t hear the animosity you do. Obviously it’s in interpretation. But, what I’ve heard, and continue to hear, from both Geary & Francis is that neither one sees Luke as a picket fence, happily-ever-after kind of guy, & Laura might as well be dead if all anyone wants to see is her babysitting the younger generation. BOTH of them are excellent actors IMO working in a genre that depends on characters being in constant turmoil. Neither would have been served with the “aren’t we cute, happy parents” scenes that their fans rabidly wanted for decades. It would have been incredibly boring for both of them, and I adored L&L.
To be fair, I don’t think the character of Luke would fit into Tracy’s lifestyle either, unless she took to globe-trotting with him and stayed in PC less. Corporate intrigue, my *ss. Luke Spencer is the least corporate dude in PC. He could care less about the Fortune 500, and would be put to sleep listening to strategy. No, the guy is the same one who entered GH – a nightclubber who likes perks, cuts as many corners as he can, and adores his family. IMO, he’s always been a lone wolf and it makes the most sense if he leaves the show that way.
Not sure where you are getting that there is animosity between the two actors. Tony Geary has always been vocal that “the characters” should not end up together. They had a history and it is over. Tony Geary felt it was time for the characters to move on and not be the cliche couple that goes off into the sunset. There has never been anything saying that Genie and Tony don’t get along.
Obviously u havent kept up with Genies interviews.
Agreed. I’ve sensed that, as well. They both seem like very polar opposite, strong personalities, and that can be an issue. In my experience, many actors can be “too much to take” over the top personalities, a little nuts to to speak. Especially the really talented ones. I’m sure that’s the case here. No offense intended, different strokes for different folks. But, in this case, that seems pretty evident.
SOD quote unquote
“for a long time, I kept banging into myself coming and going… when I decided to come back… in 1991, as Bill. I decided to give up the thought that i was on my way to somewhere else… this is my destination. my first time around, GH was a stop on the way to some grander illusions… i learned over the eight years away that nobody wants luke spencer in their movies and stuff like that” 12/29/03
Hmmm. I have to agree I don’t actually see it there (and I haven’t really seen it in Genie’s other interviews, either). But Eileen’s comment and the other reactions on here got me to thinking about it, and I think you could make the case that it’s there in what she doesn’t say. Genie has ALWAYS, through the years, been a class act in interviews–diplomatic and gracious, even in the ways she’s expressed her disappointment with ABC. Given that, I think what she doesn’t say speaks volumes. Go look at the TV Line interview (if you haven’t already): she gushes about Jonathan Jackson, she gushes (really gushes) about Emma Samms, but she doesn’t gush about TG–and the interviewer doesn’t really ask her questions about her feelings about him, either. About how it feels to have TG leaving, yes–but not about him personally. And given what a pill TG has shown himself to be in interviews in the last few years, I have to admit: I’m at least wondering if there’s a less-than-cordial relationship there. It’s entirely possible for two very talented people to admire each other’s talents and even create something magical on screen and not feel warm and fuzzy toward one another. (And re: the Luke and Laura magic–it’s also possible they got along very well years ago and that the relationship changed at some point. I recall TG saying he felt very protective toward GF in the early years–she was very, very young, still, in the early days of L&L, and I think that’s kind of sweet, actually, that he felt protective–so if there is animosity now, it doesn’t mean it has always been there. It could have started later.)
Not that its important but Genie emailed me and thanked me for my comments about her!
They should have had Tracy end it with Luke after the Fluke story. That way, and I know Mr. Geary doesnt want this BUT, the Spencer’s should have ALL left together, whether they walk off into the sunset together or jump over Niagara Falls as a family. Put an end to it and move on. And I say this with the utmost respect to all the characters.
Fine with me, but as long as we get to keep Lulu!
in an ideal world, tony wouldn’t be lieaving, genie would be back full time, and who cares who luke ends up with, that should be left for the last episode of the show, wish would be NEVER! , But seriously, ideally luke would end up with laura considering everything they went through. its really hard because Tracy should be happy too, so maybe this is the best ending for now, later down the road maybe we will all learn that luke ended with both and moves to utah…..
Genie is awesome and Geary just needs to go already. She’s been kept off the show for too long because of his resentment for Luke and Laura. Without Laura, Luke would never have become as big. He’s an ingrate with a ridiculous ego. He’s a good actor, not great, and would have never achieved the level of success elsewhere. He didn’t exactly have movie star looks or appeal. He has somehow convinced himself that GH and Genie have held him back from greater things. Delusional!
Without Luke AND LAURA, Geary’s IMDB page could have easily ended with his last appearance on Barnaby Jones or maybe he could have gotten a Hart to Hart episode as “Thug number 3.”
Geary can’t leave fast enough and if ABC is smart they’ll keep Genie, give her rightful place on the show, rein in Frank and Ron and make General Hospital, General Hospital again.
Amen! I agree with everything you said. I’m tired of TG getting everything he asks for and Genie getting slighted. Roger Howarth is a better actor.
Roger Howarth is thee: “Dream”
Amen sistah!
Amen! Couldn’t have said it better myself! Don’t let the door hit you in the a$$ Tony.
Oh wow, how I disagree with this.
BEAUTIFULLY said, Matilda!
Matilda, as Gail specified; your synopsis into ‘the world of Geary’ was eloquent, soul-baring and succinct
I would also like to point out, as I am sure Harry will agree with me, that your grammar and phraseology are impeccable. I know, I know….so what, right? Perhaps, grammar is not important in communicating one’s thoughts. I am just one of those annoying people who goes out of her way to try to use perfect grammar. You are, indeed, a rare gem. I appreciate it.
Okay, I will now stop boring everyone.
You make a very valid point, Genie got the short end of the stick…
I agree Fanny, I am so happy Genie will stick around. The rumour is Genie signed a 6 month contract. I hope she stays longer at General Hospital. Give Laura a storyline and a new man.
Love this comment! I’ll never understand why Geary is so pandered to and Genie is treated like a 2nd class citizen. Geary has NEVER been in demand outside of GH, whereas Genie has made several successful TV movies, miniseries etc. I also look forward to a Luke-less GH and his never ending vacation steered storylines. Geary just gets on my nerves.
Agree completely!! Thank you.
Matilda: Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! You are entirely correct!
I agree with most of what you’ve said, regarding Genie’s place on the show .She was great when she was just a teenaged Laura and kept getting better as she got older. I love seeing her on the show. and hope there she gets a long tern contract.
I agree with some of the points you brought out i.e. Tony’ s ego(which I think may have mellowed a bit) and his small rather than large screen appeal However, I don’t think it’s fair to lay blame on Tony entirely for keeping Genie/ Laura off of G.H. I personally hold the head writers and producers responsible as well- Even if Tony didn’t want “Luke and Laura” to continue, in my opinion the p t b could and should have come up with another way to keep such a fan favorite as Genie on the show e.g. if not Laura, why not another look-exactly alike character. as if that hasn’t been done before n’ cest pas?
I have enjoyed Tony from day one.and throughout the years I’ve appreciated his ability to consistently create layers for his character as well as to persistently keep the integrity of Luke intact. I also give him kudos for the wit and improvisational skills he so masterfully injects Luke with. I will miss him.
Matilda… “beautiful” just…. so…. ON!
have to gavel… echo…. and stand :
“… He’s a good actor, not great, and would have never achieved the level of success elsewhere. He didn’t exactly have movie star looks or appeal. ”
I think he became embittered… that success… didn’t .. follow him to prime time.. and the big picture shows
and took on TPTB (gh) what his show … should
he has rattled my last nerve.. even if it was a lie.. to see Traci dumbed down duped and emptied
as for Lulu : call her cupcake again… she’s not Julie Marie Berman… where it did work
Lucky.. was so dark.. dismal… tired in black… with Ms. Ireland.. albeit the tenderest scenes AG has “ever” lived
wasted screen time.. was the bestie Nathan… dang! he left for greener pasture… and is succeeding… my hats off to his screen presence… big… and yes… he’s all that
so.. after all that… he has no family left… on General Hospital
You must be on a muscle relaxer? Tony Geary is an excellent actor. He chose to stay on GH. His looked changed in the 90’s. He could have done MANY other acting projects. He stayed with GH because he loved the job and the people he worked with love him! As far as looks and appeal, there are people of all shapes and sizes who look differently and thats why they are called “Characters.” He has appeal. You cannot help but look and listen when he is on screen. Are you a fan of GH? Did you see the black and white episode with Tony in it? Tell me that was as good or better than anything on prime time TV? As for Genie, she is talented and I am happy for her to be back. As for why she hasnt been on for 37 years, ask the people at ABC. Her character is limited. It is so much easier to write for a swashbuckler as a opposed to someone whose main purpose on the show and it was magical, was her early 80’s appearances and her wedding. Hope you feel better!
Matilda You said it all. The last time Luke and Laura returned Genie was on AMC and living very happily in N Y. ABC had her fired from the show, so if she wanted a job it had to be GH. No one would accept Tony as Bill ,and that took his ego down. That was all his idea . I am very happy to see Genie return and we know she has done other things. Right now Tony looks like he should be her father. I will be looking forward to the departing Tony don’t let the door hit ya, where the good Lord split ya. If TIIC are smart, and we know they are not they will keep Genie forever. She is a classy lady. Welcome back Genie Francis.
Exactly, Matilda! In the ’80’s, when the L&L craze was at its peak, the beautiful, telegenic Genie Francis was courted by the networks for all sorts of primetime work, including being offered a place on “Dynasty.” Although she never appeared on that nighttime soap, she did star in another one, “Bare Essence,” and in numerous miniseries (North and South I,II and III) and other guest spots galore. Balance that with what Tony Geary got…”Intimate Agony,” an ABC Movie of the Week (1983) that was a not-so-scintillating STD saga on the herpes epidemic co-starring Judith Light. No disrespect intended, but as you very correctly pointed out, whilst Geary’s work on GH was indisputably well done, it obviously did not translate to greater success in other areas of the business. Having seen many of his old, pre-GH guest appearances on retro tv episodes, it’s apparent why: despite being a perfectly credible actor, he failed to bring any great charisma or charm to those previous roles…quite unlike his portrayal of the larger than life anti-hero Luke Spencer. Being cast as that character was a once in a lifetime opportunity for Geary to make his mark as a performer, and he succeeded magnificently, becoming a household name and very wealthy man with the power to call the shots for his entire GH career. And much of the credit for that phenomenal blessing must go to his better soap-half, GF. Without her Laura to launch his Luke into daytime serial history, there would never have been this iconic character who’s had Port Charles to call his home for these lo so many years. Given that fact, it really does make one wonder why both Geary and ABC have been so dismissive of Francis’s contributions and rightful place on the show’s canvas for much of the past few decades.
How wonderfully and honestly written, Shay! Kudos!
@CeeCee….Thank you! Your words are high praise indeed!!!!!
Prego, cara.
I really love tony geary’s Luke but he wouldn’t be one of the most memorable soap stars without laura and Genie. Luke and Laure were the shit and for her to feel like she had to ask is really sort of sad. As much as I love Luke I’m always surprised at how much of tonys demands the show put up with over the years. Laura is a legend who really should have been treated better and that’s not on Tony but I don’t think he helped.
Sing it, Kel! Laura and Luke were always a mediation between heaven and earth and the result was pure magic.
Without light there is no shadow–Laura provided that light for Luke making him soap’s most memorable and intense anti hero.
Absolutely truuuuuuuuue❗️
Amen. I’m with you Kel. I am shocked that producers over the years gave Tony such a voice in his character. I wonder if Susan Lucci had that much power.
Well said Harry!
Thats true Harry but Luke’s light never faded, Laura’s did.
Totally agree Kel. Sorry Tony, you will always be known as Luke and Laura!
LOL
yes
“… Tony, you will always be known as Luke and Laura! ”
humility and appreciative of fans shared comaraderie elevated ALL
As always, a class act.
in a perfect world..Of course! Luke and Laura ride off into the sunset. Anything less would destroy the dream..and we soapers are dreamers through and through. We don’t want Luke and Tracey, well matched as they may be in the real world. This is fantasy, and only Luke with Laura makes any sense. I don’t want a world where they aren’t together in the end. We need this fairly tale ending..Please give us what we’ve waited all these years for..
Luke and Laura was a fantasy. A rapist and his victim falling in love. Even the actors playing the roles didnt like it. The show wont have L and L riding off into the sunset cause there are many who dont want it.
Amen Eileen!
If its ok with Genie, its ok with me…enough said!!!
yeah, in the realm of wanderlust…
it’s just time for Genie Francis to share another chapter of Laura
or..
for the duration and everlast of General Hospital
I always felt that Genie Francis was the superior actor of the two. She brought out something wonderful in Tony and when he occasionally overacted, she always brought him back to some semblance of reality. His acting on GH for quite awhile has become wooden and boring. I think it’s best that he leaves and hopefully Genie will have an opportunity to show her chops and stay on the show. He admittedly has been able to drive his storyline to fit his own needs for many years, regardless of how the audience and his fellow cast members felt. He has no control over his last storyline as he no longer has leverage because he’s leaving and hopefully this one will provide satisfaction to the audience. Genie Francis has more than earned her right to be there!
Genie is a class act. I love her comments about Emma. As for Tony, I’m beyond ready for him to leave. I still can’t believe how much power and control TPTB have allowed him to have.
Laura and him should walk off together with Fascination playing in the back ground. There was no greater love story.
Luke should be with Tracy!!!!!!!!!! She is his true soul mate. I don’t think Luke wouled keep the secret from Tracy. I hate this.
Can’t wait to see all this
Why is it so much about what Tony Geary wants? What about the fans want?
And Genie is a class act all the way. She has said in other interviews that she respects the fact that Luke is “deeply in love with Tracy.”
There’s a sense that she is walking on egg shells when it comes to Tony.
It’s a crying shame that Genie’s been made to feel this way… Just shameful.
Nobody held a gun to her head to return. She knew before she resigned where they were going with Tony’s exit.
“….There’s a sense that she is walking on egg shells when it comes to Tony. ”
thank you
I kinda got the same feeling… as Genie Francis premiered.. as she walked in to the “Haunted Star”
hint hint FV/RC
this has got to change…
Laura , fans plus… will banner… Laura Lives in Port Charles… her own story
Days of Our Lives… please hire Michael Muhney
Harry, do you like the way CSI ends every episode or Law and Order. The fans dont always get what they want.
How ridiculous that one employee has to ask if another employee is okay with them returning to work.
I’ve always thought Laura was more important to GH than Luke ever was so I don’t care how he leaves (but he can feel free to take LuLu with him…)
Well I’ll agree with Lulu’s exit. Emme is horrible as Lulu!
Why Genie Left General Hospital;
General Hospital had divorced them, paired them up with other lovers and even killed them off. Yet it still seemed like Luke and Laura’s honeymoon would never really be over – until now, that is. Earlier this month, after acting opposite Anthony Geary off and on for a quarter of a century, leading lady Genie Francis quit in a bitter dispute with her soap’s brass over what she considers to be their preferential treatment of her co-star. (According to sources, Geary is allowed to take extended vacations, rewrite dialogue and improvise at the drop of a hat; Francis is not.)
TVGO: We’re talking about executive producer Jill Farren Phelps?
Francis: Yes. She basically said she wasn’t sure how much [time] I could have or when I could have it, but I couldn’t have it all at one time and that I was not within my legal right to ask for it. Apparently, they put in my last contract that I had to give 120 days notice to get a six-week vacation. I had completely forgotten that it was there, and that made me really angry because I fought all along to have equality with my partner, Tony, and they don’t impose that on him for his vacations, but they do impose it on me
TVGO: So, this isn’t a permanent farewell?
Francis: I can’t really say a permanent goodbye to [GH], because it’s just too painful. I don’t really know. There would have to be some kind of clarity about equality. There would have to be some resolution for me.
And there would have to be an interesting role to play. There hasn’t been for three years now. They took it out of me with the death of Lucky, and then they really didn’t know what to do with me after that. And I got really bored, and I think the writers got really bored and didn’t know what to do with me. Then [headwriter Bob] Guza – who’s so smart – came up with this great, crazy, screw-loose Laura, which I have to say was… really a great way to end. I ended on a totally up note, and that felt good to me.
You are really so full of shit please shut up!
“OH Shut up.”
Jack Benny.
“Shut up, Meg.”
-Peter Griffin
It’s very sad that in a genre that is mostly geared to a female audience, so much sexism exists behind the scenes. I get that Tony Geary does have a fanbase but so do many others. Genie Francis should not have been treated like something TG stepped in. TG would be nothing without the LnL pairing. Heck he would have gotten to sleep with Liz Taylor had it not been for the popularity of LnL.
TG has an ego (not unusual in the soap business I know) and a distain for the soap genre that has kept him employed and very rich. I don’t get that same vibe from GF. I hope she gets to still around and we get to see Laura have her own story sans Luke.
I find it horrible that GF has to be vulnerable and bare her soul in her work with someone who had previously not wanted to work with her. Acting is hard work without having to deal with that.
Agreed! Plain and simple – without Laura there would not have been a Luke.
Les..
There would be no Laura without Luke..
Tony stayed with GH, he contributed to GH for 38 years and Genie left soon after their wedding and she did not contribute much at all to GH thereafter ..
Tony rose up and became an 8 time Emmy winner..
I do not believe Genie was ever nominated for an Emmy..
Tony put in half of his lifetime with GH..
Genie, not even close, not at all..
Genie quit GH ..Tony gave his all to GH, to this day..
Me, too
AG was the highest paid actor. He took 3 6 week vacations while others in his storyline didnt work nearly as much. He won 8 Emmys simply because the writers gave him front and center storylines. Hes a great actor but so are many on the show who if given what he had, would shine also. He distained his partner GF who was equally responsible for his success. He might be looked up to by many, but also looked done on in equal numbers. Success at the top should make one humble, not pompous. It takes a village but he doesnt seem to grasp that
Su0000,
Laura and Scotty drew a lot of us younger folk to the soap opera genre long before Luke showed up on the scene. As well, there is a whole back story as to why Genie left the show and why she came and went and why she didn’t get the Emmys she so richly deserved… Seems to me her returns always generate a great deal of interest for GH as well. Having said all this, I acknowledge that without Luke she would not be the iconic character she is today…but it does go both ways.
I love you su0000!
Totally agree. Laura was already a regular character on the show. Luke was a short term, storyline mover that was supposed to be there a few days or weeks at the most.
Ms. Francis is indeed a class act, I hope GH gives HER whatever the lady wants, post-Geary, too. I think her work has grace and intricacy. And yes, how nice to have the original Lucky with “Luke and Laura.”
As far as I’m concerned AG can find the door and not come back! I watched the Daytime Emmy’s and that was it for me. The way he treated GF was disgusting,,he acted as if he couldn’t stand for her to even be near him. Does he not understand that Luke AND Laura made him who he is today with his career?
So with that being said,,I hope GF stays for a very long time and
TG leaves alone and broken,,, maybe he should watch how he interacts with people. Bye bye Luke,,, don’t come back
It was very telling how awkward that was for the both of them. He could barely touch her or stand beside her. His body language was screaming!!! Yeah, theres no animosity there, right!
I don’t think they dislike each other, TG just wanted it to be more than the Luke and Laura show. Especially since she wanted a home and normality and Luke still wanted ADVENTURES. He and Tracy were a good match, I will miss them together. I’m very happy that GF and JJ came back to say goodbye. I hope Lucky hangs out with Laura and his son for a while. Maybe he can straighten out Liz
I think Genie wanted more than the Luke and Laura show too. So why wasn’t see able to have the same as Geary?
i agree. I dont think tony dislikes genie, he has been over l&l for years. I think the fans should get what they want now. Both are class acts but people move on. That said, i dont believe tony would have lasted this long without the l&l history.
Genie Francis is such a class act. I love her. I’m sure her late father, Ivor Francis, would be so incredibly proud of her.
I want to put a couple of things out there before I get to the matter at hand – I love me some Genie Francis. Despite me being gay and realizing it at a young age, I had a huge crush on her, and the adventures of Laura – first with Scotty and then Luke, captivated me. It may have been Luke and Laura to the rest of the world at the time, but to me, it was Laura, with co-star Luke. As for Luke, I was never fond of the character – he was a scoundrel and loud and obnoxious most of the time, but I learned to deal with him because Laura loved him. And the years she was gone and it was just him, I followed his story but ultimately could take or leave him. As for Tony, more power to him for getting it, but I did get frustrated with his numerous vacations and apparent influence over the portrayal of Luke, a portrayal that increasingly moved me from not being fond of Luke to actively disliking the character – all because Tony found a dark Luke more interesting and in the process, wound up with a Luke that had few if any redeeming qualities. All that being said, I completely understand Tony not wanting Luke and Laura to reunite at this point. I’ve been watching since 1979 ( I was young – very young) and reading the articles and the interviews – and I remember that Genie decided to leave at the height of Luke and Laura’s popularity, and Luke went on to have a couple of romances before she briefly returned to escort Luke off the show. At that point, Luke and Laura reuniting made complete sense. But Tony came back as Bill and then as Luke when Genie returned (forcibly by ABC) as Laura – and it was still there. The magic. Genie eventually took maternity leave, returned and then was in the middle of a hot story and left again for her second maternity leave. And then didn’t return to the show for well over a year, and if stories at the time are to be believed, was forced to come back by ABC to fulfill her contract obligations. And the whole time she was gone, Tony was clear in interviews that he was there, holding down the fort for the ‘Luke and Laura’. But when she returned, it was about Luke’s rape of Laura and their growing distance and then Lucky’s death and Luke’s involvement with Felicia and Laura’s involvement with Stefan – and it was drifting. The magic was waning. They clearly had a relationship and a connection but it wasn’t the same. And then Genie left again because of her disputes with Jill – which in all honesty, I didn’t understand. Yes, without Laura, there would be no Luke – but in terms of time with the show, Tony had been there longer overall and of course, he would have… Read more »
Bravo Mike. The first GH episode I saw was when Laura killed David Hamilton (not sure what year that was). I’m a Laura fan too. I agree with you 100%!
Mike : Hello, tip my hat… thank you… for sharing
when telee first came to our community… AMC and GH were the first serials in my life
I watched both… but what entranced … entrenched me to the gills… was AMC
all those families… all those “relationships” how to be… LOL…
tears… when one is struggling coping and living with that hidden arena and helming as best he can… sexual identity… being gay is at best one’s own flight plan.. that I wouldn’t wish on any one…
that being said… All My Children… had it in spades… rich storylines.. replete with all the gamut… livlehood… embroiled
I then took on : As the World Turns : God love the Snyders… my beloved show of show
The Casts of Another World… and Santa Barbara.. inarguably the best CASTS plus… I will soap box these two till the end of time
anyway… I would live through these shows… thank god… one graduates.. at 18 has to leave home… go to college and come out
hence.. up to this day… 34 years later… i’m still up to the gills in Serial
Days of Our Lives… of the 4 , I am steadfastly, REMAINing wild about…
you’d have to read my prior posts… this show still carries the original serial recipe
I posted below… my wish, for Genie Francis.. that she falls back in love… with Stefan Cassadine… and she helms the new first family of Port Charles… with her son Nikolas… grandson… Spencer… and of course.. Lesley Webber as the first lady of GH… OK , along with Monica
are the Quartermainia’ every going to get beyond what it has been… for years… just Traci?
pelt me again…
why not feature the Cassadine ? so what if they own ELQ.. what a power play and new direction for the Cassadine
ok.. long in the tooth
but … men… be it straight or gay… have enjoyed right along with… and yes… !!!! if this site features menfolk… in the mix
Patrick – I started watching GH because of my babysitter at the time. She was all ABC – but the only show I took to was GH (and again, it was ALL because of Laura). I tried AMC for a while when there was a gay character played by Chris Bruno and tried it when Genie was on it – but I never took to the show. I dipped in and out of OLTL but only really started enjoying it the last few years it was on (and frankly, welcome the OLTL transplants to GH – I regret their characters couldn’t stay). My grandmother however, was CBS all the way. I was a vaguely interested in GL, but that was only because of John Wesley Shipp, even though I didn’t quite understand why I was so interested in him at the time, but again, overall the show didn’t hold my interest. Y&R was a favorite for a while during the early years of the Victor/Niki/Ashley triangle, and I also dipped in and out of the show through the years, finally giving it up for good when Heather Tom finally moved on. And then there was ATWT … Although I’ve followed GH more consistently and it holds a special place because it really was the first soap I fell for, ATWT was hands down my favorite during the Marland years. All the surprise twists and turns and secrets – and Lily and Holden and Dusty and Tom and Margo and Barbara and Kim and Bob and Frannie and Meg and Jsoh – and on and on. There wasn’t one age group that didn’t have a compelling story and it focused so much on family and history and old characters popping back up to be woven back into the fabric of the show as necessary – there was nothing like in daytime as far as I was concerned. After Marland died I would tune in depending on the story and although it faced some really rough years, I was sad to see it go. On NBC, all my friend were watching Days of Our Lives with all the super couples. As a kid, I found the show a cheesy rip off of GH – where GH had one or two super couples, Days had to have four or five, all following the same general template of super-coupledom. That didn’t mean I didn’t like a number of characters – I mean, really, who wouldn’t love Eve. And I followed the show closely when Genie moved on to become Diana Colville. And Isabella’s cancer storyline was one of the most heart wrenching stories on tv – but again, I was coming and going with the story at the time, but eventually gave the show up for quite a few years until I read there was a gay character coming and it was probably going to be Will. I’ve watched daily ever since and agree that it carries the original serial recipe (although wildly cycling… Read more »
Yes! I loved Laura with Stefan. They had great chemistry. It would be wonderful if they could resurrect him somehow. Soaps can do anything! I would suspend my disbelief easily….
Wow there is the proof that Tony Geary didn’t like or want Genie Francis working with him at GH, it’s only now that he’s leaving that she’s allowed to be on the show full time again. And didn’t Tony have say in his storylines also?
Well I already didn’t care for Tony but now I can’t wait for him to leave GH, I hope he never comes back at this point and I really hope that Genie is on the show for good until the end.
The very notion that this lovely and gracious actress had to ask if she had AG’s blessing to return to the GH canvas speaks volumes….as if! I truly believe the only reason he even relented to the fans’ wishes for an L&L send-off is the bitter aftertaste the “Clusterfluke” storyline left for so many. This is the actor’s last shot at redeeming himself for that utter mess, and if it took the presence of GF, then so be it! Having said that, the fact that she accepted and brought Laura back to Port Charles to send Luke off into the sunset bespeaks of her class, professionalism and appreciation for those viewers who made her the star she was and still is. Thank you, Genie Francis!!!!
Shay, first, “Clusterfluke” … brilliance!
Second, you know we’re on the same page regarding Genie Francis. Thanks for your kind comments regarding “this lovely and gracious actress.”
Genie is a lovely and gracious actress, that is true…
but she it is not a star,, that status left her decades ago..
She is not even a soap regular..
What she once was in now held in the 80’s..
She is not a star of GH, she is merely a returning vet..
Genie has been out of the soap business and GH a long time ..
what once was is no longer..
GH has many stars who have been with GH for decades earning their stardom..
Luke is legend and earned his 8 Emmy’s . He is a true star.
Genie has not even been nominated for an Emmy..
But nonetheless it is good to have her back and I’ll see what she brings with her
(hopefully a lot more than what she brought to Y&R..
Again; Genie is indeed a ”lovely and gracious actress.” no doubts..
long live Laura!
I am a patient, disciplined man. There is a comment in reply to mine that again disparages Genie Francis. I know this because all I needed to read was a word or two. Actually, all I needed to read was the name of the poster. I have such discipline that I didn’t bother reading the entire dissenting rant, which I have seen and heard before. I don’t feel the need to use curse words in response, as I have seen here.
I am comforted by seeing the incredible outpouring of support for Genie Francis, here and elsewhere. And that makes me smile. I much prefer to smile… 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂 🙂
It was my pleasure, James! Anyone with even a modicum of knowledge regarding GH’s glorious past recognizes the massive contribution GF has made to both the show and the soap genre. I’m delighted that she is back gracing the Port Charles canvas….those rare moments we’ve already enjoyed of her waxing nostalgic with Luke at the Triple L Diner were pure magic and bliss!
You go, James…SMILE, and I will smile with you. I love Genie…not so much Tony. I am well versed with their history, albeit not around during their escapades….but, I do glean a modicum of power given to Geary regarding Genie’s presence on the soap.
“The greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse”. Edmund Burke.
In this case, the abuse is mental. As Shay said, for Genie inquiring if her return had Tony’s blessing is a form of apprehension. To me? That is mental abuse.
You, James, are a true gentleman…so gallant!!!!!
@ Shay: You are so right about GH’s “glorious past” and Genie’s “massive contribution.” Genie’s current tenure has been a fun ride!
@ CeeCee: Thanks for your kind and encouraging words! I share your sentiments regarding Genie. She’s terrific! You and Shay are onto something about the “mental abuse” and “apprehension.” For me, it’s sad to hear these details; they tarnish Geary’s legacy as he leaves the stage…
“Oh, Shay”
LOL
“thank you”
Marquee : feature this! “ClusterFluke”
i’m embroiled in this headline! damnation! Genie Francis carried
I do not like, Luke… never have…
oh, yes… for the few scenes.. that were emmy worthy… he deserved his 8th. but, no more
I’m ready for his exit
I’m ready for the Cassadine to re-ignite… re-invigorate.. and helm… Port Charles
all of it!
Nikolas is behind the Lucky kidnap… Tyler Christopher is brilliantly portraying his take over
LOL… i am captivated by this nuMAN !
Laura even said herself.. she has some corporate experience … when she worked for Edward Quartermaine
pelt me…. it’s time for new blood… new arena… new familiarity with elevated performances
Stefan Cassidine returns… and love supplants Laura… as the first family to the top tier
Stefan, Laura, Nikolas, Spencer… and whomever … and it could be so many… lady loves.. to tango…. Hayden, Britta, Liz…
PLEASE BRING BACK Denise Alexander… as mom… and ala… nuHelena… throned queen… Leslie Webber
all this … in lieu of Anthony Geary salary
YES!
Great stuff, Patrick! Your parting shot about bringing back certain actors in lieu of Geary’s salary is astute and reasonable. There is a lot of good they can do with that money — if they so choose!
Glad you liked it, Patrick!!! I’ve never had anything against the character of Luke, per se, but this last year watching AG in his signature role has been a trying one….it would seem that “Fluke” left a great many of us with a feeling of deep dissatisfaction despite the well-acted manner in which he was presented. Rather a shame for long-time GH-ers who wanted to see both Luke and Mr. Geary leave on a happy-high note. But it is what it is….I’m going to savor the waning days of the iconic Mr. Spencer, celebrate the return of his true lady love, Laura—and those other near-and-dear—then simply hope for the best. What comes after Luke’s departure is anyone’s guess….
Can someone remind Mr. Geary that the Laura character has been there since 1975. So many people have adored this character from her rebellious teen yrs, to the Scotty romance, The Luke/Laura yrs, to the Post Luke Cassadine era.
To be honest I’ve loved the Laura character even more than the Luke/Laura phenom. I wasnt even born yet during Laura’s teen yrs, but I was always fascinated with her backstory Pre-Luke. My grams gave me the entire history of the character which is why I like seeing a strong Laura, the one that made decisions for herself and isnt protrayed like a wilting violet.
Its like the show has forgotten that Laura had STORYLINES BEFORE LUKE. Let Mr. Geary make a graceful exit, and I finally get my Laura back who truly should be the Heart and Soul of this show with Legacy character Liz Weber who should be a strong 2nd.
Thats the one thing I will give Ron credit for when it comes to OLTL. Viki was ALWAYS still the heart and soul of the show. She shared scenes with the kids, the Young Teens, the 20’s crowd, and was always there for her kids drama, and a great friend to all, even while giving good Bitch to her enemies. I mean she drove story, counseled others, made mistakes, and always tried to do the right thing even when failing. Thats what I want for the Laura character.
I always loved GH, but it was sorta my 2nd show behind OLTL. For many yrs I’ve felt GH was missing a nuclear core as the Heart & Soul of the show. Lets hope now that Laura is home, she will be what we the fans have been asking for.
Realizing that Tony Geary has been so awfully selfish when it comes to Sharing the spotlight with Genie makes me sad to say the least. He had always been ego centric but I never thought even if they are not friends in reality that he would treat her so disrespectful.
People have face the truth..
Tony is indeed much better than Genie..
Tony went on to win 8 Emmy’s, no other has done that.
Genie has won zero Emmy’s, I don’t believe she was even nominated for an Emmy.
Fact is; Tony worked his way up, he didn’t quit and run from GH he stayed and became a legend..
Tony has been with GH 38 years, Genie has been out of the soaps with the exception of some in and out since the mid 80’s. Genie has not been a soap regular for a very long time, Tony has given his all to GH half his life to GH
And that does make Tony much better than Genie…
Not that Genie is not good, but tony is better.. Tony is better than most all soap actors.
Tony is legend … and he put in decades after Genie to rise to fame without her.
what was no longer is.
Genie got very lucky when Tony came to GH and gave her recognized fame.. without Tony, Genie would not have risen and there would not have been the wedding which she is most noted for.
No one has disrespected Genie, some have been truthful.
Genie is a good actress.. Old time fans are happy with their nostalgia over her return.
New viewers, the viewers who came in after the 90 or whenever do not know Genie and she a newbie to many but- they all know Tony.
I am happy for the fans of the 80’s to have Genie back on their screens..
I would rather have the Cassadines back lol ..
I saw Ginie as Genevieve on Y&R, and truthfully I was not impressed.
But then I do not hold the 80’s nostalgia for Genie.
I wish her the best with with this now GH, the GH of 2015.
She will need to be written into the now ..
The 80’s Laura is gone there will be a newly created Laura because there needs be a modern version of her.
I am interested to see what is ahead for Laura ..
And, I’m happy for her fans to have her back.
@Su
LOL
you make us laugh with… i’m certain… after all is said and done
you will forever be heralded for your chutzpah… tell it like it is
my credence with : “…New viewers, the viewers who came in after the 90 or whenever do not know Genie and she a newbie to many but- they all know Tony ”
whew… this show must evolve… past Luke and the Quartermaines
LOL
YES! i’m so with you.. on the evolution… future.. that thee Cassadine premiere
ps: i truly meant to share… I share my glass of wine, on the weekends with fans
albeit
@su0000….You needn’t welcome Genie back to the GH canvas with the same open arms many of us have, but please give this talented actress her due: Not only was Miss Francis nominated on four different occasions for a daytime Emmy—once with AG for favorite soap couple—-but she actually won as Outstanding Supporting Actress in 2007 for her iconic role of Laura Spencer!!!!
su0000, I like Laura but she was nothing without Luke! Their wedding was monumental BUT it was her pinnacle and just the beginning of his climb. Man or woman aside, Laura has no drawing power, Luke did and does.
Allen, you are absolutely correct. It’s sad to hear this news…
I think it shows what a class-act Ms. Francis is and how much admiration and respect she has for her on-screen partner-after all of these years. It seems that most of the actors on the show hold Mr. Geary in such high regard and with such high esteem. I hope that the viewers see a lot of flasbacks from the Luke and Laura adventure days next week. I was born in 1980-so I missed a lot of the hype-would be nice to see some of the history between the two legacy characters.
I am so glad Luke is leaving for good. I do no think he added anything to the show for a long time. I hope they giveTrace y a. Good story line. She is a great actress.
Tony just got his 8th Emmy for ”not adding anything to the show”
.. sigh
AND his ninth is on the way for his black and white episode!
He got that Emmy for playing a dual role
Most times an actor plays 2 characters at once, they win an Emmy. Its double the work.
Yes, Tony did win his eighth Emmy. But, I must agree with Eileen Hargis here. He won because of his dual role. Yes, he killed it….he deserved it! I have said it all along. But, su, for you to say Tony is better than Genie is tantamount to speaking of apples and oranges. I suppose we can’t help who we like. The fact is. Tony Geary always struck me as if he has a deep, dark secret. I know, unreasonable, right? Unlike other actors, his life is a complete mystery. I tried searching…I found nothing tangible. I found that he likes living in Amsterdam because no one knows him there? Really? Is he saying that his grandeur and popularity had people beating down his door?
He had a thing with Liz Taylor? So murky, that! He emanates a creepy, dark aura….which leaves me with an empty void inside. I can’t explain it. He is an enigma, but not enigmatic; does that make any sense? He is so white, almost transparent….ghost-like and sickly looking…..hope he’s ok.
He seems like such a nice guy in his interviews. I really wish him well. I get this feeling that once he definitely retires to the Netherlands, we will never hear of, or from him again. It seems to me that is what he wishes….to hide.
I do wonder how Luke became this bigger-than-life character…..was Tony, the actor; the person, as acclaimed as his character?
However, if we are to compare, su….Laura is the sun, while Luke is the darkness…my perception. ( I did borrow a couple of words from Willy—my fave)
You’re absolutely correct, Eleanor! He is waaaaaaaaaaaaaaay overrated!
I still don’t believe Tony has any bad feelings toward Genie. He just doesn’t think Luke and Laura should reunite as a couple. I’m loving the story so far. I can’t wait to see Lucky (the only Lucky for me is JJ) and Ethan. I am anxious to see how Tony will exit. It will be a sad day for me.
There will be tears on that day..
A moment I will never forget, for sure.. 🙁
(Luke and Laura can not reunite Tony is leaving Laura is staying there can not be a reuniting couple wise.. there will only be one left ..
Of course I would not mind if they reunited, then Laura would have to leave GH with Tony/Luke. Then they would both be gone.
Great post Cynthia!
Cynthia ur just not aware of all the goings on between the show and AG about trying to keep her off the show. Its isnt Laura he objects to, its Genie. Tho he did not ever wantvtgem together again, he also didnt want her around, period. She knows it.
Please dont get me wrong here. I liked the Luke and Laura story just fine and their wedding is soap history. But that was a couple of decades ago and their fans remain way back there with that coupling. Today is a whole new game and MOST GH fans are happy with Luke and Tracey, tho that might be history now, too. I just want Luke to have his final hoorah and go off the show. Hes had the majority of story for so long and I really believe there is plenty more there for the rest of the cast that includes Laura, not joined at his hip!
Considering how he treated Genie in all the scenes when GH was revised under Valenti/Carloti it’s completely hypocritical to pretend he’s now learned to “make nice.” Let him just go–but please GO! GH under the self-centered Geary’s demands has steadily gone downhill. I”m very sure that Jane Elliot will more than survive, as ill Genie Francis.
I began watching General Hospital when I was a child, and I remember Laura. Lesley finding out that her daughter had not died at birth … finding her daughter who had been adopted by another couple … getting Laura back … and Laura’s transition between the two families.
Laura and Monica are the last of the characters who became my half hour to hour “community.” Laura deserves, for she has the talent, loveliness, and history, to be a matriarch in Port Charles. The writers have so much of her story life to use. Here’s a character who is the daughter of doctors, who has traveled the world, who should speak French fluently given the time she “lived” in the country, who has been married to a lawyer and an adventurer, who has suffered mental illness, who has run a perfume/cosmetics company, and more.
Keep Genie Francis on the show, give Laura a position of power, and Ms. Francis amazing story lines. She is not just a lovely woman. She’s intelligent and knows the people of this soap opera city. She long ago proved that she can handle such work.
Genie Francis is every bit as responsible for the Luke and Laura phenomenon as Anthony Geary is. There is no way that AG would have been such a hit with the viewers without Genie. No way. There are many really great actors out there but Genie Francis has the “it” factor. She has a uniqueness about her. There really is not another actress quite like her. She is memorable. She is real.
Anthony Geary is amazing at portraying Luke Spencer when he is with Genie. He takes on a uniqueness as well. When Genie is not on with him he is still an amazing actor but he doesn’t have that rare quality about him.
I hope he doesn’t have any hard feelings towards Genie. I don’t know all the story on their background history. I just hope there is forgiveness from wherever the hard feelings may lie.
Genie was so young when she began on GH. I liked her but really became a huge fan of her acting when she developed her uniqueness. She always had it. She just had to mature into it. I see some of Denise Alexander’s (absolutely amazing actor) mannerisms in Genie.
General Hospital may have continued for many years with and without Genie Francis but it was always better with her around. She brought something special to the show.
I hope she realizes just how amazing she is. Still.
Meant to say in my first post that Anthony Geary doesn’t have that rare quality about him when he is not with Genie. He is amazing but there is something special when he is with Genie. I must say I can’t put my finger on it but it absolutely is there when he is with her. He becomes one of the greats of all time. Genie is one of the greats of all time as well. They have to know that. Millions of people were hooked on them.
General Hospital
Kelly Clarkson and Tamron Hall Talkers Debut With Strong Ratings; Hall On GH Friday
The newest talk shows in the daytime arena premiered on Monday and their initial ratings were quite strong. First up was the premiere of Grammy-winner, Kelly Clarkson and her new series The Kelly Clarkson Show.
According to Variety: the NBCUniversal new daytime series scored a 1.9 household metered market rating and a 6 share in the 56 metered markets. That is the highest debut for a new syndicated show since 2012.
Elsewhere, Disney’s Tamron Hall posted a 1.4 household rating and a 5 share, and with that Tamron scored the highest other debut other than Clarkson in the past five years.
Nashville was the most successful and predicted market for Clarkson, the show scored a 5.97 household rating on its premiere day which climbed 7% to a 6.41 on Tuesday.
Hall will be promoting her show with a cameo appearance on this Friday’s episode of General Hospital where she appears in scenes with Ingo Rademacher (Jax).
In a tweet Tamron also promised that on Friday’s episode of her talker she will talk about her “longgggggg #GH love and history.”
So, have you checked out the new Kelly Clarkson or Tamron Hall Shows? What do you think of them? Comment below.
General Hospital
The General Hospital 16-Episode Collection: ‘All Sonny’s Children’ Debuts
General Hospital fans know that Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) has fathered a lot of children in Port Charles and then some, and there is even another Corinthos baby on the way.
Now, available on ABC.com and the ABC app (no sign in required) comes a new collection of past GH episodes entitled, ‘All Sonny’s Children’ featuring life-changing moments in the mobster’s life. The collection is available for viewing today September 9th through December 1st.
Courtesy/ABC
Included in the the 16-episode collection is: Sonny learning the truth about Dante, Michael’s devastating confession, Morgan’s heartbreaking struggles with mental health, Sonny’s unconditional love and support of daughter Kristina, as well as the hesitation and joy that comes with knowing a new baby is on the way.
So, check out the collection and let us know which episodes are your favorites? And, who is your favorite kid of Sonny’s of all-time? Weigh-in below. But first watch the just released promo for the collection.
Sonny Corinthos’ children are the reason he wakes up in the morning. Relive some of their most unforgettable moments in the newest General Hospital Collection: All Sonny’s Children. All 16 episodes are available now – without a login! CLICK TO WATCH: https://t.co/IytVDHu6Oe #GH pic.twitter.com/dtdINhykzc
— General Hospital (@GeneralHospital) September 9, 2019
General Hospital
GH’s Michael Easton Talks On Finn’s Hayden-Less Story, Finola Hughes & Favorite Soap Roles
It was a pretty wonky summer for General Hospital’s Dr. Hamilton Finn (Michael Easton), especially concerning the women in his life. After proposing to Anna Devane (Finola Hughes) she exits to go deal with her twin sister, Alex, thus facilitating Hughes’ summer break from the series.
Meanwhile, another great love of Finn’s life, Hayden (Rebecca Budig) re-emerges on the canvas during Liz (Rebecca Herbst) and Franco’s (Roger Howarth) wedding reception, and is now clearly involved in some story with Jasper Jacks (Ingo Rademacher). But what about the unresolved feelings and story with Hayden and Finn? After all, she left him and Port Charles and had his child (who is apparently alive) but is not letting her ex know that little fact.
Meanwhile as a doctor, Finn has had to deal with numerous medical infectious disease crisis’, with the latest being what happened to Sasha (Sofia Matteson) at the hands of the evil Cassandra Pierce (Jessica Tuck), who Finn would love to put behind bars for all of her nefarious drug-related crimes and for what she previously perpetrated on him.
Michael Fairman TV recently caught up with one of our favorite gents in daytime, Michael Easton, to get his thoughts on the on-screen developments in Port Charles, what he hopes is ahead this fall, a look back at some of his favorite soap roles (from One Life’s John McBain to Port Charles’ Caleb Morley), why One Life to Live was such a gem of a soap and a special time for him and his enduring soap career, and much more. So, here’s what Michael shared in our irreverent entertaining, and candid chat.
Photo: ABC
Hayden has been back. But you and Rebecca Budig have not thus far shared many scenes together. Do you think we will eventually circle back to their story?
MICHAEL: First of all, it is amazing having Rebecca back. I’d like to say that I had forgotten how beautiful and talented she is, but I didn’t. She stays with you, and her performances resonate. So, coming back to work with her is like falling back into it. For selfish reasons, I am somewhat disappointed that I thought when Hayden came back; she would completely turn Finn’s life upside down. So, to be honest with you, I don’t know much more than what you are seeing is going on.
I don’t understand why the show is keeping that apart. That’s what people wanted to see when Hayden came back, because many fans loved them together.
MICHAEL: I’ve taken a hit anytime I’ve run into fans because I think (any fans that follow that couple), when they left, are a little disappointed in what they are seeing in that the girl who left is not the girl who has come back. I think that has been the difficult thing for Finn. It’s almost like she has reverted back to a character she was a few years prior to that. In terms of having his life upturned, it hasn’t been upturned because she has been rather cold to him. So, it probably isn’t the way I would have told the story, but maybe they have some great stuff up their sleeve. I think the stuff that we have had together has shown promise. Hopefully there will be more, because I enjoy working with her so much.
So, there’s a baby. Does Finn ever think the baby Hayden said died, could be alive?
MICHAEL: I don’t think he does. I think he (just from Finn’s nature) would believe that she would never to that to him. I imagine his thought would be, “What did I ever do to you? You would do this to me,” because he was clearly in love with her, and she broke his heart. I don’t think he ever sees that coming. I know it’s hard because the audience all knows that, and it’s hard to play the person who is not in the loop when everybody else knows the truth, but you have to play that. You have to play that you don’t watch the show. I think Finn has to come from that place that she would never do that, and I think that will probably take it to a place (if that is the case) that will just make the fall that much grander, but again it is incredible having Rebecca back.
Photo: ABV
Has Rebecca said anything to you like, “What’s going on? I’m barely talking to you on the show?” (Laughs)
MICHAEL: Yes. I don’t want to speak for her, but I think she probably thought it was going to be more the character that left who was coming back. I think we’ve all been a little surprised, but maybe the writers have some great surprises up their sleeves, and this will play out. It’s just different than I thought it would play out.
Finola Hughes had gone off on her summer vacation for awhile which put a pause in what’s next for the Anna and Finn romance, as well.
MICHAEL: Well, you work with me long enough, and then you need some time off, right? It’s like PTSD, right? You need a three-month treatment plan to make it back. So, I don’t blame her for taking some time off. (Laughs)
Finn proposed to Anna with this impromptu-at-her feet-moment at the Nurses’ Ball. Did you like the proposal?
MICHAEL: The only thing that I would have done differently is that I originally thought she said no, just because I love playing uncomfortable, embarrassing moments. I would have had a lot of fun with that because being embarrassed in front of groups of people is something that I would like to play. I do that quite often in my own life. (Laughs) I didn’t watch it back, but in the moment, it felt really nice. She’s lovely. Who wouldn’t propose to her? So, there wasn’t a great deal of difficulty in doing that.
Photo: ABC
Do you sense the on-screen magic between Finn and Anna?
MICHAEL: I hope we both bring each other out of our comfort zones a little bit. I think Finola embraces that, and I embrace that. I think we both sort of pull each other a little bit. When the writers write it that way, especially early on, there was a lot of great dialogue and banter, it was like a very adult-type of movie for a while, and I really enjoy that. It is like Sullivan’s Travels or something like that. That’s a really dated reference. Who else do you know that is going to pull out a reference to Preston Sturges movies? (Laughs) How about Moonlighting? Even that might be dated now, but it’s closer. (Laughs) I think that’s it. She’ll go with it. Sometimes just in the flow of it, stuff comes out, and nothing goes by Finola. There is no ad-lib or gesture that you can make where she won’t go with you on it. She’s such a pro, and she is so good at that.
Photo: JPI
You’re both smart actors, in a way.
MICHAEL: She’s smart. She’s really smart. She’s extra smart, and I’m a little bit under, (laughs) and she balances us out.
Do you think Finn will finally help apprehend Cassandra? How is it when you get to work with Jessica Tuck?
MICHAEL: Yeah. I would imagine. I love Jessica. I think she is fantastic, and I always like when the “bad guy” doesn’t know they’re the bad guy. I know when I played Caleb on Port Charles; one of the things I liked about him was that he never thought he was the bad guy. I think that is always the right way to play a bad guy, and Jessica certainly doesn’t play it that way. She plays it like she is just really devious. She is lovely. I sort of look at it like a team, and anytime you lose good players, your team is not as good. So, anytime someone says something about someone coming back who is a really good actor, it’s great when they come back.
Photo: JPI
How does Finn feel now about his brother, Chase (Josh Swickard)? He just can’t seem to get himself to show his affection towards his younger brother.
MICHAEL: He does love him, and that’s right. That’s the conflict, but it’s hard to be mad at Josh because he is the sweetest kid. He looks at you with those big brown eyes, and you go, “Why am I being such a jerk to this guy? He’s just too nice, but it’s good. I think we’ve slowly developed a rapport, and it’s just one of those things that I think every so often, daytime gets right where you can almost tell something in real time. It wasn’t rushed. It’s taken a year, and they are sort of coming around to one another, but there are still a lot of secrets. That’s coming up.
Photo: ABC
Where would you rate Finn in the scope of your characters? I mean, for me, McBain will always be #1.
MICHAEL: Is McBain 1? (Laughs) You and Steve Burton (Jason, GH). I’ve never sat and ranked them. Obviously, I played McBain the longest, and it was probably the character who was the most like me I did ride-alongs with cops in New York City for like a month. So, I was able to ground him in some reality for myself, and I was able to stick to that. We had a great adviser on the show for over a year who was a former New York City detective, gold shield guy. Someone once asked why the police department was so good at One Life, and that was it. They really embraced it. We didn’t have people sneaking out of the jail-cell with a bobby pin picking the lock. (Laughs)
It was a bit grittier on One Life.
MICHAEL: I enjoyed that. McBain not saying “I love you” for 10 years, being on daytime and being able to do that – now that is quite the accomplishment!
Photo: JPI
I remember when McBain FINALLY told Natalie (Melissa Archer) “I love you.” I lost it, but then again, I am sucker for soapy goodness like that. It was a big moment.
MICHAEL: It was. Then, he had to kind of retract it and said, “I was drugged.”
Yeah right, he had that “What did I do?” moment.
MICHAEL: “What did I do?” That’s right. So, that was a challenge, and that was really interesting. Port Charles’ Caleb was probably the most fun to play because that was just an incredible amount of freedom. There was no grounding it in anything. It was the biggest sandbox I’d ever played in. If you wanted to walk over to the couch, you walked over to the couch. You did whatever you wanted to, and obviously, getting to work with the lovely Kelly Monaco (Ex-Livvie, Port Charles, now Sam, GH) every day… it was just nice. Caleb only had one intention. He was in love with this girl, and he just wanted to be with her, and anytime you get one specific need as an actor, it makes it so easy. You’ll stop at nothing to be with this girl, and that’s so fun to play.
Photo: ABC
Right, and Kelly Monaco and you have amazing chemistry when you have been paired romantically together in story.
MICHAEL: Yeah, I think those things exist in a special place, and they probably belong in that special place. Although, I thought it was an interesting dynamic for a period of time, it would have been interesting to see where that would have gone on GH with McBain, and Jason, and Sam, because there was something there that they could have built on very slowly. I don’t know what would have happened, but I think that dynamic was the only dynamic that could have worked for a period of time. I don’t think Fin would work, but that one dynamic would have been interesting when you have the cop, the outlaw, and the girl who comes between them.
Photo: ABC
One Life to Live recently would have celebrated its 51st anniversary if it was still on the air. Back in July, I posted these photos of major characters through the years. I received so many “likes” and so many comments on social media such as, “I miss it so much. Bring it back!” What can you say about those enduring One Life fans and being part of that one-of-a-kind show?
MICHAEL: They’re the most beautiful fans. All of the daytime fans are beautiful, but I think it was a really nice connection with the One Life to Live fans, and we got to know so many of them working in New York on the streets, you came out of the studio, and people were right there. So, you really got to know them. You got to engage with people. I love that show, and I miss it. Otherwise, I still stay in touch with a lot of them. I think that speaks to it. I have lifelong friends who I met on that show, which never happens. Usually, you walk out of a show on your last day, and you’ll never see anybody again. You’ll all say, “Yeah, let’s exchange numbers.” I walk out of there and I go, “Thank you, and I’ll never see you again.” I don’t even lie to people. Like, I know I’ll never see you again, and I never have except for that show, and I am still in touch with so many of those people. So, I think that spoke to how close we were.
Photo: JPI
Were you and Roger Howarth (Franco/Drew) always close on One Life, or are you closer now because you do all of the personal appearance events you do together?
MICHAEL: Well, Roger and I have known each other; it must be going on… 25-30 years now. So, it was pre-One Life. I think at some point we both had long hair, and both had done daytime, so we were pretty interchangeable. I think one time they called him about a part I did, and one time, they called me about a part when he left. I actually know Roger because I did a series called 413 Hope St., and Jesse Martin was the lead in it. It was a Damon Wayans series for Fox. So, I had known of Roger, but I really got to know him at a New Year’s Eve party in like 1995/96. Obviously, I’ve become really close to him now because we never did appearances or that sort of thing, but I think we have both sort of gotten over ourselves a little bit now. (Laughs)
Because you weren’t very visible before. That goes for both of you!
MICHAEL: No, and that’s by default. I don’t think we ever discussed it.
Photo: ABC
It wasn’t a conscious decision?
MICHAEL: No, I just thought (especially when I came back to daytime to do Caleb) it was just more interesting if people didn’t know a lot about me because the character was that. So, it took me a while to ease into it, and also, I just had to get over myself. I had a fear of engaging with large groups of people for a while. In a strange way, Roger and I have kind of gravitated to each other. I think we are both similar types. Between the two of us, we make up one real man, you know? Each of us is like half a man. (Laughs)
Together you can conquer.
MICHAEL: We are a good crutch for each other! He picks up my half, I pick up his. That’s the solution.
So what do you think GH viewers can look forward to coming up with Finn?
MICHAEL: I’m assuming at some point he is going to get his world turned upside down when he finds out about Hayden and the baby, and how he is going to react to that will probably be interesting. I hope that’s going to happen.
Photo: ABC
If he became an addict again, how would you feel about that?
MICHAEL: I think him struggling and getting over that would be interesting. I would hope that wouldn’t be his reaction, but I guess that always hangs over your head. Certainly, him falling apart would be interesting. I think your faith in the universe would be crushed in that moment. I don’t know how he would react. I’m just really curious to see how that would shake out and to play that. I think it would be a challenge. I think you’re always looking for some way to turn everything … and I invite that. I always think that sometimes in daytime we play the gimmick, but you should always play to the heart of the story. What’s going to make you feel something? If you feel something as the character, as the actor, I think the audience will feel something with you. I think it is maybe one of the things that we have gotten away from a little bit is that emotional attachment. When I watch shows that really move me, it’s still that emotional attachment between two people, and at the end of the day it should still be a love story … no matter what it is. I think that is the heart of what we should be doing. I think every poem should be a love poem of some sort. I know they have to weave the other stuff, the science fiction, and the memories, and the missing babies, and the twins, but at the heart of it, it should really be about two people finding themselves in love.
Are you working on graphic novels, movies?
MICHAEL: I’m always doing something, Michael. It keeps me balanced, and it keeps me from losing my mind.
Photo: JPI
Will you be producing and directing any new short films?
MICHAEL: Trevor St. John (Ex-Todd/Victor Lord Jr. OLTL) and I are always talking about doing a short film. Every time we drink too much beer, next thing you know, we are going to be doing a movie. We have many beers, and then we shoot a film. Then, we call our friends like Kamar de los Reyes (Ex-Antonio, OLTL), and Sherri Saum (Ex-Keri, OLTL), and Dan Gauthier (Ex-Kevin OLTL), and we go, “Now you guys, drink many beers, and you will join us on this film.”
See, now I get how movies are made!
So, are you hoping that GH tells more of the story between Finn and Hayden? Are you hoping that Anna and Finn make it to their “I do’s? What would you like to see happen to Finn? And finally, of all Michael’s soap roles which has been your favorite? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
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