General Hospital
GH EP Frank Valentini On Taping the Sonya Eddy Tribute Episode: “It Was an Extraordinary Script, and It Was a Labor of Love That Day”
This week on General Hospital, the ABC daytime dramas series kicks off its 60th anniversary set of episodes, with what is sure to be the most emotional – the tribute episode for the late Sonya Eddy in honor of her beloved GH character, Epiphany Johnson.
GH’s executive producer spoke with Soap Opera Digest (in their latest issue on newsstands now), about how the show decided to handle the delicate subject of a real-life cast member’s passing and connect it to the story on the canvas of the soap opera.
In conjunction with GH co-head writers, Chris Van Etten and Dan O’Connor, the trio decided that if they weren’t ever going to be able to see Sonya as Epiphany again, that there was no way they were going to ever recast the role. Valentini shared: “We decided it was important to honor not only Sonya, but Epiphany and we wanted to dedicate a full entire episode all about that.”
The EP went on to give praise to his writers, and the cast for their performances when taping the episode: “I think everyone was touched by what the writer’s wrote. It was an extraordinary script and it was a labor of love that day in honor of Sonya, who was so incredibly loved by everybody in the cast and crew.
The way the death of Epiphany is structured on the airshows is key also to the upcoming Nurses’ Ball episodes set to air the following week. Frank expressed: “Epiphany is a very pivotal person in the Nurses’ Ball, so it’s almost like a part two (of her tribute).
The Sonya Eddy tribute episode airs Wednesday March 29th.
Are you looking forward to seeing how GH honors Sonya and the beloved Epiphany of GH? Comment below.
I bet it’s just going to be heart-breaking.
I look forward to seeing the tribute. She was awesome and I loved her character ❤️ sleep on Angel
So happy to hear that
She was awesome…
Rest in peace lovely lady
I know it’s going to be heartbreaking and sad
Really miss her and her character
Yep it was
Yes. Do her right!
It took long enough for the writers!! To pay tribute to sonya! Glad make it good.
you do realize it took a bit of time to figure out how to fit it in existing storylines, write it, perform and tape it. Having it coincide with the 60th anniversary is perfect.
Agree!!!
Nope Tooo Long! Like She Didn’t matter.
They could’ve Honored her way Long Before This
They tape episodes months in advance. They wanted her to have a special episode for the 60th Anniversary. She was amazing!
Agree
It was beautifully done.
I believe it’s because SHE DID MATTER, to all of them that they do this right! At first I was sad they were waiting but I now see the wisdom! Besides the fact it was a terrible loss for her cast mates and family. This gave them a little time to process and heal. Perfect timing for the 60th yr. We all miss her so much, yes she mattered to all of us. Today will be gut wrenching I’m sure!
Sounds like you’re implying something; if so, give it up and stop. It was a great tribute and one that Stuart Damon, who played Alan Quartermaine for thirty years, never got.
They didn’t have to wait this long to honor Sonya if it would have been Mayberry mike it would have been right away
Agree
totally agree.. some people haven’t a clue how the writing works.
I totally agree!!
agree, yes, it’s been a while but man everyone has been too hard on the writers. they should be thankful that they are wanting to make it a memorable tribute instead of just throwing one together. These will be the same people who will complain it wasn’t good enough.
I agree. It usually takes a while when something happens to an actor, especially one whose character is well loved.
I’m sure they just took the time to do it right.
Not a storyline you can just throw in there. Thankfully they took their time and are doing a tribute to her
Seriously? Sonya died just before Christmas. The show is written about 3 months in advance. If this were DAYS, it would’ve taken about 9 months. Victor Kiriakis death has not been addressed.
Kudos to Chris & Dan for getting this on as soon as possible. There’s much to criticize about writing on GH, but the timing of this tribute is definitely not an issue.
I think Days is going to start moving towards Victor’s death. Even though they tape 6-7 months ahead, John Aniston’s last appearance was on December 26, so he was apparently unable to work for several months before he passed away. The fact that Bo came up with this “quest” to dig up his Kiriakis roots (rather than reunite with any of his Brady relative, except for Kayla, who didn’t really have a choice in the matter) seems to me like they already knew what was coming by the time these scenes were taped, and that they better work up to the character’s death by immersing Bo in that side of his history. My theory is that Bo might even end up taking an interest in Titan Industries once he gets back to Salem. Even if he doesn’t stick around long term himself, he might want to secure the “family legacy” for Ciara & possibly Chelsea (if we ever see her again) Shawn Douglas probably won’t want to give up being a cop, so he’s not likely interested in the Kiriakis business.
Look at you – almost providing positive notes on Ron. He might had a direction in mind, but doubt he would have written a Victor passing scene until JA died. Guessing August (at the earliest) to see that on screen.
200% agree
I agree
You know nothing to make a comment like that… Shameful!!
They also had to allow her RL family to grieve and work on their time table regarding the tribute.
I agree!
The reason being is that tape so far in advance. They were planning as soon as they found out. It takes time to think of what exactly they want to do and how to present it. It is not a live show.
Right! It did take a long time.
I think it will be awesome.Rip angel!!
It didn’t take long; they shoot months in advance. It’s not live! The memorial was very touching and not everyone who deserved one got one. Stuart Damon, who played Alan Quartermaine, a central character for thirty years, never did. He got a few flashbacks for maybe three minutes at the end of an episode with his picture at the end of it. That was a disgrace.
Here’s the key difference with Stuart Damon’s passing and that of Sonya Eddy…
The character of Alan was (stupidly) killed off. A funeral was shown with flashbacks at that time. Trying to calm the fan protests, the producers brought back Alan as a ghost haunting Tracy. Stuart also had a short appearance with Monica, Tracy and AJ during the 50th anniversary year.
If the character was still alive at the time of the performer’s passing (ie. Epiphany or Sean Donely) it’s not a major stretch to combine the real and reel deaths into a tribute show. Since the character of Alan was long dead, you’d have to stretch to create a plot point that could include living cast members.
All my commentary is from someone who treasured Alan (and Stuart’s portrayal) and took
a long break viewing break after the ridiculous deaths of Alan, Elizabeth and Georgie.
Elizabeth? Did Elizabeth die and come back? Or did you mean Emily? As for Stuart Damon, yes; them killing him (Alan) off the show was so completely crazy and careless; heartless too. Not only for fans but Stuart Damon was blindsided. Horrible decision.Still, when Mr. Damon died they could have planned a tribute episode; Monica looking through a photo album on their wedding anniversary, the family gathered around as they all reminisced; thus flashbacks like we had for Sonya. It could have been a real nostalgic episode for those of us who “knew” him, and a peak into an actual Quartermaine for those who have recently come aboard and only know the fake Quartermaines (‘cept for Ned and Brook Lynne). There’s a way to dedicate an episode to him, and I think they should have. The man was on for thirty years….
OMG – I can’t believe I typed Elizabeth instead of Emily (just after I responded to a different poster who mistook Emma for Emily!)
Elizabeth is one of the few characters that have never been presumed dead and returned. She’s certainly been around quite a few of them (Lucky, Jake, Jason, Drew, Robin).
Jill Phelps (if she goes in that direction) will not be warmly welcomed by Stuart Damon or Anna Lee. Phelps bumped Lee to recurring. Lee’s son said that took away one of the few things that kept his mother going. John Ingle was one of the few that got the upper hand on Phelps. When bumped to recurring, Ingle was immediately scooped up for a contract role at DAYS. After that ended (and a disastrous run of Jed Allan as Edward), Phelps brought Ingle back under contract where he stayed until his passing.
As you mentioned, with the influx of interlopers and hangers-on at the Q mansion, if there was a tribute to Stuart, sadly only Monica and Ned would’ve had stories. Remember, they couldn’t use flashbacks that contained Edward, Lila, AJ, Emily or recast characters without paying their estates.
Took Long Enough they just forgot about her to me! And they are wrong for that
Disagree, they (writers of GH) wanted it to be real, touching, and perfect, for that they needed TIME. Can’t wait to see it!!!
I think they are doing right by her,and her rl family. I think it’s going to be terrific, I say well done.
Are you just not reading the other posts “explaining” what you are talking about??? I think this was done as it should be and will be presented perfectly
I disagree. She could never be forgotten.
LOL; stop whining. The tribute was very nice.
I love her i been waitng for GH to say something about her. Rip. And love and peace to the family
Already crying when I read this. Loved her so much! She will forever be missed.
Me too,and I barely watch GH.
Same
I love Sonya Eddy too, I was so shocked when died in real life…I am going to missed her no nonsense character and she was sassy. I was also waiting for the writers of GH,to write how her character Epthany’s died. Thank you for her tribute on Wednesday 3/29/2023…We love and going to missed Ms. Sonya Eddy aka Epthany Johnson
Yes I remember her when I used to watch GH . Nice character she played. Thanks GH for this tribute to Sonya Eddy
100%
Yes! She was a wonderful actress. Going to miss her she was so funny. I’m sure it’s going to be very emotional.
It’s gonna have all that watch GH CRY I’m sure everyone will make the entire episode will be GREAT and filled with lots of love and memories
Yes she was a Angel.She just made General Hospital special with her presence . I miss her she helped everyone with their problems and she didnt judge.R,I,P, sweet lady.Im so glad you didnt recast.
Gh is honoring a very special lady RIP
It’s love on the brain…do it right GH …no other soap can do what you do…it gives us , your fans and viewers a chance to mourn and say Goodbye! Her character reminds me of myself…don’t start no mess; it won’t be no mess! I loved her character when she had the hot romance with the hotty … And her singing touches souls…no understudy can do her Justice..like the characters Luke…Jason and Jaxs..bring them back please…❤️❤️❤️
It’s going to be heartfelt because they all loved her and know what she meant to her fans RIP Sonna
Her character was “real” and true. I was so, so saddened to hear of her death in real life. She was a true treasure.
I agree that they cannot recast Ephiany’s role on GH. Sonya was one in a million.❤️❤️ I’m so looking forward to her tribute on the show.
I also agree there was only one epiphany Sonja she had the voice of angel R.I.P.
Yes she sang lik an Angel
I totally agree with the writers for not recasting the character of Epiphany on the show. Sonya was one in a million. Good Rest her soul. She surely is missed by so many. ❤️❤️
Recasting would have been exceedingly inappropriate, rude and would have unleashed unimaginable fury from cast, crew and fans alike
She was very sweet and help everyone I’m going to miss her I been a fan of general hospital since it was aired in 63
I been fan since it aired.and IBeen blessed by enjoying the show thru the years.i am sixty five and love to watch the show and hope one day I can meet all the cast of the show.Miss Sonya
had a beautiful personality…she
is going to be missed by me.
Father God has her soul and spirit. Prayers go out to family
Cast and writers.may the Lord heal and give strength to all.
May the Lord keep everyone…..
Amen.
rength to all
Me too. Watched GH since 1963. RIP Sonya. Can’t wait to see her tribute on Wednesday. She was a great person and will be missed dearly.
It’s going to be sad. At least they’ve been prefacing it by her studying to become a doctor
Studying to become a doctor is awesome
When they first mentioned the Johns Hopkins thing, I thought they were going to take the “easy way out” and give the character an offscreen “happily for ever after as a doctor, somewhere else” exit.
But then they had multiple characters comment on how they couldn’t get in touch with Epiphany, and it made it obvious they were leading up to the death of the character. If the tribute episode is Wednesday, I imagine somewhere towards the end of the Tuesday episode, somebody is going to find out what happened to her, and then Wednesday everybody else finds out.
I REALLY wanted that storyline to play out, Dr. EPIPHANY JOHNSON! She would have been FIRE! She cannot be recast, she is irreplaceable! Does anyone know what she died from?
As much as I enjoyed Sonya and her portrayal of Epiphany, the storyline of her becoming a doctor gave short shrift to nurses overall. On a hospital show that only has for years had only one nurse (Elizabeth) as a contract performer, we should be celebrating nurses and not insinuate that they want to be doctors.
If Willow survives, will they pick up the storyline (mostly heard and not seen) that she was studying to be a nurse? We got a glimpse of Bobbie in action when Amelia was in the nursery. With Epiphany’s passing and the Ball next week, we’re likely to trot out Felix, Amy and Deanna before they go back in the storage bin.
Longtime viewers will recall the key role nurses played in the show through the 80s. Even though Amy, Meg and Georgia were never part of major stories, they were a regular presence at “the hub”. As the job description of nurses changed, Bobbie and then Elizabeth have played key roles in operating room scenes.
We are looking forward to it but not the tears we may shed. She left this world way too young
Just hope the writers don’t replace her character!!!
Did you read the article before you comment?
OMG!! I am going to ball like a baby. I loved Epiphany
I have been waiting for this tribute to this wonderful actress.
I’m also happy that her position is not being recast. There will only be ONE
Nurse Epiphany Johnson, she will never be replaced. My heart is breaking all over in anticipation of Wednesday’s show, as well as the upcoming Nurses Ball.❤
I was in tears just reading about the tribute episode! She was so amazing, I loved her so much ❤️
I agree wholeheartly that Sonya n epiphany should be remembered with one whole show of Sonya. We love n miss her so much. She was so awesome. She played epiphany right down to the money. I loved her so much n I agree with everyone that epiphany / Sonya will be loved n missed. Rise high beautiful lady. With love Earnest n Susan Miller
Sonya was Epiphany and a recast just wouldn’t be right. I was so pleased when the writers were finally writing a well earned storyline for her. I was really looking forward to watching her become a Doctor and maybe finding love again. I am misty eye just thinking of her. Sonya, what a great person you were.
It is a wonderful way to show what a wonderful lady dhe was.Thank you for your life and a lady you were.
Yes can’t wait to see how GH honors Epiphany and anyone else. I’m sure they will do a great job.
Will miss Epiphany very great actor indeed.
God bless
I so miss Sonya Eddy she was the best Epiphany Johnson ever and glad she won’t be replaced .I so wanted to see her character become a doctor rest in peace Sonya eddy gone too soon.
I am glad they will be doing a special tribute to Sonya. I here she was an amazing person. She is sorely missed. RIP
Yes I have been wondering how they were going to honor her after her passing. So glad to see that they will be dedicating an episode to her. She was quite a character and will be truly missed.
Get out the hankies this is gonna be sad
I’m glad the tribute for Sonya Eddy is approaching. She was a great Actor and I am sorry she is no longer with us. RIP
Thanks Frank and to Chris and Dan for this tribute.
Yes, I am definitely looking forward to the episode honoring Sonya Eddy aka General Hospital character Epiphany.
I’ve been looking forward to this episode . I love that their doing this in Sonya’s memory it’s going to be special.
I am so sorry she is gone, may she rest in peace. Sonya was a giantic part if GH. I miss her face on General Hospital EVERYDAY.
Just cried my eyes out reading this. Looking forward to the tribute. Such an amazing actress and woman. Rest in peace Sonya.❤️
Don’t know how the tribute episode will usher her out, but I’m glad they are not going to recast. Some characters can’t be replaced, and Sonya Eddy was one of them. I know you are at peace and singing and dancing in Heaven. Will always miss you.
I agree with you Colleen. She had a voice like an Angel
I think it will be a beautiful tribute to her life and her as an actress on the show.
I cried just Reading this. I’m sure it will be beautiful can’t wait to see it. God Bless
Yes, she’s going to be missed dearly
I was honestly devastated when she passed, it was as if I had known her personally. She had replied to me after I had made comments on her IG posts, and it thrilled me that she took the time to respond, and each time she did, it literally made my day. There could never be another Epiphany and it’s only right that there be no thought to replace this one of kind beautiful soul that we have come to love. I know I won’t ever forget her or her smile, and I am already preparing for the waterworks this week. Rest in peace our sweet angel and sing loudly in the heavens!
It is going to be a somber and tearful episode. I cried when I read of her passing. Gone way too soon
She’s a special lady forever in our hearts
I love Sonya, so this episode will be very difficult to watch, but so moving as well.
Looking forward to the tribute. She was so good as Epiphany. Hoping she’s honored in a fitting way. God bless Sonya. May she rest in peace.
Stocking up on kleenex…I love her and miss her on GH.
Should be wonderful to see it. Such a tragedy. She is so missed.
Looking forward to seeing the tribute . Loved Sonja’s character. May she rest in peace
I am so glad that GH is honoring sonya Eddy. Both she and her character were bigger than life , she was loved by all of us fans of GH and is missed greatly. Thank you for not replacing the character with another actor, no one could fill her shoes. I can’t wait to watch the episode Wednesday.
Not sure why ya’ll waited 3 months but she was a great lady on or off of General hospital
They had to wait until they could incorporate it into the current storyline and then film it
The writers don’t create the dialogue the day before the show airs. The show tapes typically anywhere from 3-7 weeks before air. The writers submit their stories weeks before airdate so that Frank and crew know which actors and sets are needed on a particular shooting date.
So, Sonya sadly leaves us right before Christmas. At that point GH is already filmed through January and likely written through February. The cast & crew needs time to adjust to Sonya’s unexpected departure. That, and a pending monumental anniversary, lead us to the logical point in story to address beloved Epiphany’s final storyline.
You do realize they film ahead of time? Plus they have to write the scripts.
What delightful role she played, tough but caring. Friends with all and loved by everyone. God Bless and rest in peace, she will be missed. ❤️
Excited and sad to see this episode. Wish she was still here. Epiphany was so good at being there for her fellow characters. Always giving great words of wisdom and advice. Was enjoying her romantic storyline with Marshall. They were both so good for each other. ❤❤ You were one of the Best!!! Rest in Heaven Sonya. God Bless you
One of the best. She will be really missed. There will never be anyone like her.
Have your tissues ready
What caused her death? I was completely blind sided. She seemed so vibrant,and was a young woman
She had an elective surgery and was discharged at the appropriate time. She wasn’t feeling good after a day or two home. She went back to the hospital but it was too late.She got an infection. It rapidly turned to Sepsis. It’s usually too fast and deadly to treat.
Epiphany was kind and loving yet said what she thought about the situation; thoughtful and caring. Such a beautiful voice.
So devastated by her passing. God bless you. Fly with the angels
Ms. Sonya Eddy deserves a great tribute!!! She was an amazing actress and human being!!! I loved her on GH!!! It’s not the same without her!! Rest in peace beautiful lady
I am already crying just thinking about what we will see. She was an awesome actress. GH I am sure will do this right.
Yes, looking forward to it
I have loved Sonya since the day she brought Epiphany to life on GH a beautiful woman of color with a heart of gold and a warm smile. She, Liz and Jason had the best friendship. Much like Amy once was Epiphany was also a person you longed to see at the nurses station. Growing up with GH since it’s beginning has afford me the opportunity to love the actresses, actors and characters. They‘re like family… when they exit this world and the GH I moan the losses. I’m thankful that I gotten the chance to know and love them all. Thank you Frank Valentine for giving us the opportunity to moan with the cast and staff. A fitting tribute for a wonderful lady. Enjoy paradise Sonya/Epiphany we will miss you and remember you at every nurses ball and will always love you ❤️
Loved Sonya and the role of Ephinay. No one else would be able to fill her shoes. I am glad that she is going to be honored in this way.
Please do her Right. I will miss Epiphany on GH.I love how Epiphany acted she was not Afraid to use her mouth. I have watching GH since 1968 for 55 years.
I will miss her so much ! Epiphany was such a presence on GH with her warm smile and what a beautiful voice. I loved hearing her sing! RIP Sonya ❤️
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
This week on all-new episodes of General Hospital, new and old motivations come into play with dangerous consequences. According to the just released GH video spoilers video for the week of August 3-7, a bailiff calls out, “All rise!”
Now it’s Isaiah (Sawandi Wilson) vs. Curtis (Donnell Turner), as the surgeon is suing the owner of the Savoy for assault that ruined is ability to operate. At the end of the day, which of these men has enough evidence against the other? Portia (Brook Kerr) is by Isaiah’s side, while Jordan (Tanisha Harper) is with Curtis.
Next, Lucy (Lynn Herring) has a plan to get the controlling shares of Deception away from Michael (Rory Gibson). She wants her daughter, Serena (Kelly Kruger) to seduce Michael. She tells her, “Pick out your most seductive suit.” Soon, we see Serena in her bathing suit at the Metro Court face to face with Michael.
Later, there is a small baggie containing three blue pills. Nina (Cynthia Watros) ask Willow (Katelyn MacMullen), “What did you do?” We also see Michael asking the same thing of Jacinda (Paige Herschell). Leading into this week, viewers know that Willow doesn’t want the former escort anywhere near her children, Amelia and Wiley. Is this how she stops her, or is Jacinda up to old tricks and wants to frame Willow? Remember when Jacindsa drugged Drew (Cameron Mathison)? Stay tuned.
Finally, in the pick-up from last Friday’s cliffhanger, an emotional Jason (Steve Burton) continues to tell Sonny (Maurice Benard) that he cannot work for him anymore. Sonny ask, “So that’s it? You’re Out?” We fade to black.
Take a look at the official GH spoilers for the week below.
MONDAY, AUGUST 3
Jason makes a sacrifice for Danny. Elizabeth becomes privy to a secret. Carly is touched. Valentin has a warning for Nina. Josslyn cautions Brennan.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4
Brook Lynn and Chase celebrate a milestone. Trina gets an earful. Carly’s plan backfires. Curtis is skeptical. Michael is anxious about his family’s’ future.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5
Sonny wants answers. Ava is struck with inspiration. Curtis’ trial begins. Brook Lynn wrestles with a big decision. Lucy and Serena scheme.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 6
Sonny makes a stunning announcement. Serena makes her move. Willow faces a new threat. Isaiah takes the stand. Lucy questions Laura.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
Josslyn is taken aback. Ava courts a new ally. Jordan and Anna catch up. Isaiah vents to Lucas and Elizabeth. Michael questions Jacinda.
Check out the latest ABC promo for General Hospital entitled, “What Did You Do?” below.
Now weigh-in: Do you think GH is about to pair Serena with Michael? Is it curtains for Jacinda? Can anyone stop Willow once and for all, or make her pay for her crimes? What will Jason do without Sonny and the mob? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
General Hospital Fan Club Weekend brought out many of your favorites to the four day event; with the main cast gathering on Saturday, August 1. Fans near and far attended the weekend held this year at the Burbank Marriott Hotel. Whether it be the main cast event or the smaller more intimate events featuring two or three cast members a great time was had by all.
Some of the cast participating in the main cast event included: Cyrus Hobbi (Yuri), Gary James Fuller (James), Bradford Anderson (Spinelli), Viron Weaver (Wiley), Paige Herschell (Jacinda), Chris McKenna (Brennan), Josh Kelly (Cody), Kayden Brenna Tokarsi (Scout), Cassandra James (Terry), Laura Wright (Carly), Dominic Zamprogna (Dante), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane), Rick Hearst (Ric), Adrian Anchondo (ex-Marco), and Chloe Lanier (ex-Nelle).
In addition to, Van Hansis (Lucas), Cameron Mathison (Drew), Ryan Paevey (ex-Cassius), Easton Rocket Sweda (Leo), Maurice Benard (Sonny), Kristen Vaganos (Molly), Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis), Kate Mansi (ex-Kristina), Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth), Cynthia Watros (Nina), Kristina Wagner (Felicia) and more.
Take a look at some of the snaps from the main event arrivals below:
Photo: HutchinsPhoroi
GH’s Rick Hearst with on-screen daughter, Kristen Vaganos, plus Nancy Lee Grahn, and Kate Mansi.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
GH’s Maurice Benard on-hand to meet the fans.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto.com
Jack Brennan in the house … Chris McKenna.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Adrian Anchondo, Van Hansis and Anchondo’s boyfriend, Days of Our Lives, Colton Little.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
GH’s Josh Kelly and his gal, the former Nelle Benson of Port Charles, Chloe Lanier.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Who is James’ father? Not Cassius or Spinelli, actually. Actors Gary James Fuller, Ryan Paevey and Bradford Anderson!
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
One of General Hospital’s newest cast members, Kayden Brenna Tokarski attends her first GHFCW event.
Check out some more arrival images featuring: Laura Wright (Carly), Cassandra James (Terry), Carolyn Hennesy (Diane) and more in the gallery below.
Michael Fairman TV will be adding more images to this post in the day ahead.
So, were you glad to see so many of your GH favorites attending this year’s General Hospital Fan Club Weekend? Let us know via the comment section.
General Hospital
Vincent Pastore of ‘Sopranos’ Fame and ‘General Hospital’s’ Maximus Giambetti Dies at 80
Vincent Pastore, best known for his memorable role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on HBO’s The Sopranos has passed away.
The veteran actor was found dead on August 1st in his home in the Bronx, New York. Pastore was 80-years-old. The cause of death is yet to be determined.
As well as his role on The Sopranos, many soap fans will recall he played multiple smaller roles on the beloved One Life to Live from 1995 and 2004. However, in 2008, he landed the short-term role as Maximus Giambetti on General Hospital.
PASTORE WANTED TO BE ON GENERAL HOSPITAL
Maximus was the mobster father of Sonny Corinthos’ (Maurice Benard) bodyguards: Max (Derk Cheetwood) and Milo (Drew Cheetwood)
According to Soap Opera Digest, Pastore told Soaps In Depth back in 2009, after appearing in a SOAPnet promotional campaign as a celebrity fan of General Hospital: “‘I’d love to be on the show. So they called up GH’s casting director (Mark Teschner) and Bobby (Robert Guza Jr. ex-head writer, GH) and they wrote me in!”
Pastore was a huge General Hospital fan from way back, who at one point told producers that he would watch the ABC soap opera while working in bars and nightclubs in the 70s and 80s.
Throughout his decades long career, Pastore appeared in films including: Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way and Men of Respect, The Jerky Boys: The Movie and the 1996 HBO TV movie Gotti.
In TV, besides The Sopranos, Pastore’s credits included: Law & Order, The Practice, Son of the Beach, Queens Supreme, Hawaii Five-0, Wu-Tang: An American Saga, plus the miniseries The Last Don II. Most recently, Vincent was a series regular on Gravesend and guest starred on Yellowjackets.
Pastore is survived by his daughter, Renee, son-in-law and granddaughter.
Share your remembrances and condolences for Vincent Pastore on his memorable role on ‘The Sopranos’ and his time on ‘General Hospital’ via the comment section below.
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‘General Hospital’ Fan Club Weekend 2026 (Photos)
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General Hospital1 week ago‘General Hospital’ Alum Colin Cassidy to Appear in Ryan Murphy’s ‘The Shards’
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General Hospital3 days agoGENERAL HOSPITAL: Ethan Lovett Hightails Out of the Country, Christian Howard Wraps His Stint
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News5 days ago‘The Young and the Restless’ Names New Co-Head Writers: Jamey Giddens and Dan O’Connor
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News5 days agoY&R’s Billy Flynn and Gina Comparetto Reveal Birth of Their Third Child and It’s a Girl!
