General Hospital
GH’s Genie Francis Delivers The ‘Power Performance of the Week’
This past Monday’s episode of General Hospital was one of the series best installmnets in recent months filled with long awaited confrontations and reveals.
The cast at the epicenter of it which included the talents of: James Patrick Stuart (Valentin), Cynthia Watros (Nina), Marcus Coloma (Nikolas), Maura West (Ava) all had stellar moments.
Courtesy/ABC
However, there is nothing like getting to see the icon herself, Genie Francis (Laura), do what she does best; the momma bear who is at once shocked and overjoyed that the son she grieved for over three years was very much alive, and the flip side of the anger over the fact that he let her, his sister, and most importantly his son, Spencer, continue to believe that he was dead, all for his vendetta and quest for revenge against Valentin Cassadine.
For it was Valentin who was the man who shot him and now is no longer the heir apparent to the Cassadine throne, now that the codicil said that it all belongs to Nikolas and Valentin was Helena’s son, not Mikkos’.
The thing of it is, everyone is great when Francis does her performances, and you could see that in the work of soap newcomer, Coloma, who you could just see through his eyes the disappointment and despair he caused his mother all these years, by Francis’ mesmerizing delivery.
Beat after beat in that episode, Genie brought the fire, the sorrow, and the wisdom, as Laura to every moment. It was also well-written that Laura did not just have a happy reunion with her son, but a complex one fraught with issues to be ironed out.
Then, in the punctuation of that episode, was there anything better than watching Laura’s jaw-drop when Ava struts in telling Nikolas it’s time to tie-the-knot?
That is why Michael Fairman TV names Genie Francis “The Power Performance of the Week”.
Let us know in the comment section below, if you enjoyed Genie’s performances as much as we did.
But of course…
emmy nominations for sure
Genie Francis is the VERY best of the VERY best. TPTB at GH should appreciate her way more and have her front and center MUCH more often. She is a force and Laura is a character that we cherish. Many of us were kids when we started watching the Left Handed Boy days on GH, which still puts us in GHs prime demographic. They need to respect the core long term audience more.. one way of doing this would be to feature our characters and our families and stop shoving newbies, not connected to the core cast, in our face. Valentine works as a character because of his connection to Laura and Anna. James Patrick Steward who is amazing in the role is lucky in that respect. Others who might be as talented suffer because poor writing and this disrespect of of GH history.And where Genie herself thought that the audience doesn’t know the difference between bad writing and bad acting, I assure her otherwise. We know GH’s failings…. and there is nothing about HER or her performances that would be considered anything else but mesmerizing. She is so incredible, and brings the sincerity, realism, depth and much needed emotion to every scene she plays in, despite the writing. Thanks Genie and thanks Michael for the acknowledgment.
Well said, Sus! Would love to see her EVERY day. She IS under-utilized. She glows!
Loved her performance
Genie Francis gave a wonderful performance but I got admit I really liked it when she smacked his face for letting everybody believe he was dead when I get off of me
Saw that one coming from all the way down here in Hell! First she’s gonna hug him, out of relief that he’s alive. Then smack him upside the head for letting his whole family – especially Spencer – believe he was dead for three years.
Which is exactly how I would expect Laura to react. So at least the writers got that one right.
Agreed!
Exactly!
NuNik just isn’t cutting it for me. He has no sex appeal or chemistry with his co-stars. Has he even hit puberty yet? Is the facial hair supposed to make him look “tough?”
Genie Francis always brings it. Insipid Lulu can go and cover school cafeteria “stories” off-screen.
Hi, DMRR,
We usually agree, you and I, however I find nuNikolas soooo sexy!! His eyes are a little blood-shot, LOL—-but his mouth is perfection ( like my husband’s, LOL)–those lips!!
Genie gets more and more beautiful—-her performance floored me. WOW!! Every nuance was delivered with incredible precision—her movements; her facial expressio–her indignation and hurt. Superb!!
Hahaha. Maybe I am comparing him to Tyler Christopher, who will always be Nikolas to me.
& yes, Genie is incredible!
Also, I wish that they didn’t dress Genie Francis like an old lady.
I remember when she wore purple or lilac a lot. Looked beautiful! Yes, the costumes are too conservative. I’d like to see her dressed informally, in jeans, once and awhile. Her hair looks beautiful. And her face, always.
Yeah! Just because someone is 50+ does not mean they should be dressed all frumpy. The Laura we all know & love would be more free spirited, including her wardrobe. Imho.
Did we enjoy Genie’s performance? It was worth tuning in for! Finally some real emotion about characters we care about and have history with. Hopefully being part of this story will be good for nuNikolas in “raising his game”. Though I like Marcus, right now, Nikolas’ “threats” are giggle-inducing and during his reunion with Elizabeth, she wiped him right off the screen. But I’m still hopeful. Meanwhile, more Laura can only be a good thing.
I agree 100%
GH has the best of the best actors;
problem was- they were given horrible material for the past two years
(if not longer)
Now;
The great dynamic thrilling ”’ Cassadine’s”’ are back!!
GH hasn’t had intriguing villains/the bad guys ya love, for a very very very long time.
With the loved Cassadine back in action, now, it’s in the hands of the writers.
Will they fluff it up
or
give us on the edge suspense, drama, intrigue and mystery..
time will tell.. (hoping for the best!!
Horrible material, yes, Su–and for much longer than 2 years, I’m afraid.
I remember drama–some of the scenes (earlier years) are seared in my brain. So well executed.
NuNikolas has good chemistry with Liz..Franco with Ava..and Britt returns and paired with Valentin while Nina and Jax work the best..meanwhile i hope tptbb seen Genie’s performance and keep her front in center..storywise, i did not like her slap Nik..so kept it from Spenser that he is alive..would laura prefer he remain dead..she should be a little angry but more grateful he is alive!!!!
The legend Genie Francis showing everyone how it’s done. When you see those eyebrows raise up, the “you know what” is about to hit the fan. So many wonderful performances in that Monday episode. GH is on fire right now, and it’s showing in the most recent ratings, +207,000 viewers from the previous week, and very close to catching Y&R in the 18-49 demo. Hope they can keep the momentum going!
She is amazing, & I love her so much!! Hoping, we get to see more of her on #GH!!
of course Genie was great, that’s nothing new, and so was the whole cast. its great when the writers get their ducks lined up and we get to see the whole cast just shine. GH has the best ensemble cast, and when the writing matches their talent then its explosive and epic.
Best ensemble cast–under used.
I love when gene francis is on. She is the best. And as a mother I could see every emotion in her eyes n face!! Job well done Laura!!
Laura you are the greatest still good after all your years on GH
perfection as always !
There is nothing like a Genie Francis performance.
Amen–she sets the bar–and it’s a high one.
IT IS ABOUT TIME ,LAURA LET HIM KNOW THAT SHE,SPENCER,AND LULU HAVE BEEN GRIEVING FOR HIM FOR THREE YEARS
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 HOSPITAL Preview: Serena Sets Her Sights on Michael; Jason’s Emotional Exit from the Mob
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