General Hospital
GH's Maurice Benard Chats On: Ingo Rademacher, The Storyline He Is Most Proud Of, And His New Outlook!
Courtesy/ABC
It was a whirlwind weekend at the recent first annual GH convention. While cast members from the long-running ABC daytime drama series took to the stage and participated in fun and entertaining panels, On-Air On-Soaps caught up with some backstage.
GH’s Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos) has been front and center and a standout in Port Charles for almost two and half decades. This past year, he gave us all the emotions and drama as Sonny grieved the loss of his son, Morgan, while dealing with the fallout to his marriage, a duplicitous young woman setting him up, and trying to move on with is life following the most tragic event that could happen to a parent’s child.
In our conversation, Benard teased the imminent return of Ingo Rademacher, talked on his powerhouse Emmy reel (which since this conversation shockingly did not earn him a Lead Actor nomination) and he reflected on his battle with anxiety and bipolar disorder, something Maurice has shed a light on, and been an advocate for people who struggle with mental illness.
Here are a few thoughts from Maurice below.
Courtesy/ABC
Ingo Rademacher (Jax) is returning to GH for some upcoming major scenes. What was it like having Ingo back to work with once again? Sonny and Jax are certainly longtime adversaries.
MAURICE: I like Ingo. The reason I like Ingo, is I believe he would come after me and he would try to kick my ass.
You had a wonderful past year in story on GH, and a memorable Emmy reel of your work.
MAURICE: Let me put it this way. I’m never happy with the Emmy reel. There is always a scene in there that kind of kills the way I feel about it. This was probably the first time since I won back in 2002, that I didn’t talk to people about it, because I didn’t doubt it. Usually when I have the Emmy reel put together, I would go ask people, “Do you think it’s good? What do you think?” (Laughs) I will tell you for me what really made the reel, and that was the Kristina (Lexi Ainsworth) scenes and I looked it at those and I put those in the front.
Courtesy/ABC
The death of Morgan Corinthos provided you and the GH cast with some very complex emotional material to play, would you say that story is right up there with the best you have ever told, or been a part of in your over 23 years on the soap?
MAURICE: What I have done this past year, and I have done a lot, I think this story was the one I was most proud of in terms of the work I put in. Everybody was great, and so when everybody is great, it adds to it. You know you have to be great. Everybody was on it, and so it made me say to myself, “I can now go with this where I want to take it.” I didn’t want to push anything, but just let it happen. That is the thing that I have learned in regards to my acting is that now, I just let it happen, as opposed to “acting” for whatever. I just do it! It’s in the moment and we do it. Before I put a lot of pressure on it and I wanted it to be better than this.
Courtesy/ABC GHFacebook
I think you know now you don’t have to prove yourself!
MAURICE: I guess, but sometimes it takes awhile to learn this. You have to just be, and be happy with where you are. For me, the anxiety attacks I had earlier in the year were drastic, but I said to myself I can’t do that anymore. Something had to change, and now it’s been great.
So, are you looking forward to some upcoming Jax/Sonny scenes? What did you think of Maurice not receiving a Daytime Emmy nod for his work? Was his performance in the death of Morgan Corinthos storyline some of your favorite work of Benard’s over the years on GH? Comment below!
I’ve been watching General Hospital hospital since I was walking home from school in the 60’s as a second grader. Of course other things have gotten in the way over the years but one of the things that has kept me coming back every time is Maurice Benard. What a fine actor . We are so fortunate, as GH viewers, to have had him as long as we have. I’m sorry to hear that he wasn’t nominated for an Emmy this year because he’s always deserving of that.
As critical as I often am of the mob-centric General Hospital and the often overused and repetitive Sonny storylines, I will admit that this year, Maurice Bernard was robbed of an Emmy nomination. His work has been a master class of acting and all that is great about daytime soaps as an art form.
I am really disappointed Maurice was left out as best male lead. It would be nice to see him take home another Emmy, but his fans love him and know he is the best there is on daytime television.in my opinion Maurice doesn’t need the judges to nominate him because he is already a winner. This past year he gave some of his best performances. He always puts everything into each scene he is in. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, when Sonny rides off into the sunset I will cry buckets of tears and GH will never be the same. On that day I will quit watching GH.
I LUVES Sonny !!
I can hardly tolerate Carly and Sonny and their constant bickering, never ending sniveling conversations worthy of FF because they are so irritating annoying with their arguing the same old crap day after day week after week.
I hope they break up and end it to put me out of my need to FF them and their never changing junk.
Long live Sonny! 🙂 ((alone!
I AGREE! They have had the same exact conversation about their marriage for weeks now, and honestly, how many times over the years have they had the same exact conversation over an indiscretion, lie, or half truth. It’s just so stupid and repetitive. Not worth tuning in. I’m not a big “Carson” fan.
omg I thought I was thee only one who was sick to death of CARSON! since we couldn’t have a Carly/McBain pairing…I’ll take her with say…Griff….and Sonny needs a new love interest. I currently FF thru them as well
Carly and Griff? No offense but they’re about as mismatched as Milo and Epiphany.
i FF CARSON all the time…don’t get me wrong I heart my ‘Dimpled Don’ and they bogus for no emmy nod…but this carson tango has to stop!
Sonny and Carly are Ground Hog day.
For the love of all that is right in this world, keep Sonny and Carly away from each other. This rinse and repeat cycle is boring and redundant as all hell.
Carson is the best Couple in Daytime
Maurice not getting nominated after the fantastic work he did was a travesty. When you read and hear comments from numerous people that saw his reel about how exceptional it was, and he doesn’t get nominated, it really seems like there’s something fishy going on. Because there’s no logical explanation for it.
Especially when you know Laura Wright got nominated almost certainly for scenes she shared with Maurice, same with Bryan Craig, same with Chad Duell, same with Lexi Ainsworth. They’re all good enough to get nominated for scenes they did with Maurice, but he’s not good enough to get his own nomination. That makes no sense.
When a name like Maurice Benard gets left off the list, and then you see some of the names that did make it, I don’t know what the answer is, but there’s something wrong with the Emmy voting process. That’s my opinion, anyway.
oh my, you’re ON POINT – i concur wholeheartedly!
What a DISGRACE that MO was overlooked for the Emmy! He is GH – the ONLY reason I watch for is HIM! Most importantly he is a brilliant GENIUS actor and loves his fans as we do him…wishing him the best ALWAYS and hopefully new storylines that reunite him with Vanessa!
YES. BRING BACK BRENDA! the gorgeous Vanessa Marcil!
Loved Sonny and Brenda in the 90’s. I used to rush home from school and watch the show. It’s too bad, the old regime screwed up Vanessa’s last visit, with that ridiculous Balkan storyline and her acting was totally “off” in my opinion. Her scenes always came off as being uncomfortable and odd.
I am afraid I agree with you, DMR, and wish I didn’t.
Something was off last time, the old magic and spark was not there.
VM seems to have had some kind of procedure which has changed her face somewhat . I guess you can’t go home again.
Unlike so many of the 90’s-based fans, I seriously do not get all that Sonny and Brenda love they profess…maybe I was just spoiled by the GH supercouples of the previous decade, but whenever I’ve seen their latter-day “reunions,” there doesn’t seem to be much “there there” to me…Quite frankly, the highlight of VM’s recent visits to Port Charles was when she pelted Carly with breadrolls at the NB…sad, but true!
I was so surprised & disappointed that Maurice wasn’t nominated, he is the best actor out there in the soap world, this year was his best, even though he wasn’t nominated us fans will always luv u
I’m still pissed he isn’t in the running for Lead Actor in the Emmys. Something went down for this not to happen.
I think what killed the Emmy reel was that he put the scenes with Lexi (Kristina) in the front. Honestly, I can’t stand the character. She is the female Morgan-entitled, spoiled, and nasty. I liked it better when the unlikeable character was off-air.
MB had the best chemistry with Tamara Braun and Vanessa Marcil I think LW has him for lunch because she like most of those ladies over there are scenery chewers but most people call that acting I do not if you have to tell me your acting then your toast for me!
I loved, loved, loved Sonny and Brenda, in the 90’s. They had such heat and sizzle. I agree, I think Maurice had the most chemistry with Tamara, as Carly.
Don’t like Jax & almost had it w/ Sonny. He lies & cheats & knowing Nelles a schemer doesn’t warn Carly & now hes done w her because she wont forgive him in 2 seconds & I know this shows history if they stay together it will have to be her kissing his ass & him acting like hes entitled to forgiveness no matter what.
General Hospital works best when it’s balanced among storylines. For the past six months, the show has primarily focused on the aftermath of 3 characters — Morgan, Duke and Nikolas. The show is a darker one thanks to this with the focus once again on Sonny. MB does have moments of brilliance, but very often he just throws a glass and yells “son of a…”.
Right now, Sonny (and Carly) are caught in this “rinse, lather, repeat” situation. A little trip to back burnerville could help.
I agree Steve.
I do think Maurice is a really good actor when the writing is there. But when the writing is not there, he becomes bored and therefore, we viewers become bored with his performance.
You know what couple are hitting it out of the ball park.? Anna and Valentin. Who saw that coming? Those two ignite so many sparks that they are going to burn the set down.
Agreed Rhonda…oh, how I agree!!!!!! I saw it coming from the first time Anna’s and Valentin’s eyes locked. I did catch something both arresting and a sense of familiarity there; and I said so.
The mystique enveloping these two intrigues me …….This is one storyline which will compel me to watch with anticipation…whets the tastebuds.
I think he should have put his scenes with Bryan Craig in front not Lexi. It might have made a difference — who knows. He deserved a nomination for sure.
I can’t stand either one of his “kids”-Bryan or Lexi. Ugh.
I like Michael but of course, he is AJ’s son.Avery is a doll but she’s not yet two years old.
But yeah, Morgan and Kristina come off as self-entitled, petulant brats with anger management issues.
“But yeah, Morgan and Kristina come off as self-entitled, petulant brats with anger management issues.” So in other words, Rhonda, their apples didn’t fall far from Sonny’s tree! 🙂
Well put, dmr…and Rhonda???? You nailed it with your most apt description of those two spoiled Sonny spawns!
Loved Morgan. Didn’t see him as spoiled at all. Troubled. Earnest. Struggling. Searching…
I think Maurice is a good guy but I am wondering if the reason he failed to get a nomination is because of his stuttering, fumbling and faltering constantly over his lines. It makes him appear to be unprepared and as if he isn’t learning his lines properly.Anyone who is not familiar with his work and judging reels would most certainly be put of by this.
It’s lame for the soap actors to even submit a scene that they believe they were wonderful in to win a statute of little prestige..
It’s like self praise and an invitation to a huge letdown that they were judged unworthy of a win..
The Emmy’s are lame and stupid and not worth much of anything notable ..
I think Maurice has done such an outstanding job for his whole career w/GH. I have to agree with one prev comment that his dialogues seem to be choppy, hesitant, not focused as he was in younger days. I thought his scene when he called Carly thanksgiving night, very depressed, very drunk, asking her to come back was very good. Also his scene with Dante at GH I think when Dante blamed him for causing Morgans death. Maurices face showed so much pain and sorrow. His scene on the bridge when he was going to shoot himself made me cry, and when Belle drugged hjimthat was real good as well. He is aging, we all are, but he still is very cute and sexy with a great bod.
I must be the only one not surprised MB didn’t get a nomination. Every good Emmy reel starts with the writing and GH has been lacking in that department for quite a while now. Also, MB’s faltering line delivery in every scene doesn’t allow for the variety in performance that I think grabs a judge’s attention.
You are not the only one, Alan. I echo your words.
Maurice had one good day’s performance, as far as I am concerned……his visibly tortured soul, anguished demeanor and feeling of guilt in his scene with Dante.
His stumbling never sat well with me. I have said this before, and agree with Greg; Maurice comes on stage seemingly unprepared. It becomes very distracting and unprofessional, regardless of the fact that “he’s such a nice, affable guy”.
Lest I forget, Carly and Sonny have never had “punch” for me, albeit I did not watch during their heyday.
100% agree with you, Alan! Maybe the judges fast forwarded through MB’s scenes like many of us do, or forgot to turn on closed captioning so they could understand the dialogue.
@Alan….Perhaps if the writers concentrated upon quality–and not quantity— where the character of Sonny were concerned, it would better serve Maurice as an actor. He has always been a memorable part of GH since his decades-back debut, but I don’t believe the over-emphasis of Sonny—and by extension, Carly—has done the show any favors. It seems that once Anthony Geary’s Luke Spencer departed Port Charles, it was decided that Sonny was to be the next “elder statesman” of the soap, and as thus, his role was stepped up to the central focus upon too many occasions….there are only so many stories one can tell about a Mafioso, and they’ve all been done to death here….that is not Maurice Bernard’s fault, but I do believe it has much to do with the “Sonny fatigue” that the audience— and maybe even the actor, himself—have been experiencing…In other words, been there, done that….and as such, a little goes a long way. Either find something fresh and fabulous for this legacy character to do, or keep him on the backburner for awhile.
Hey, Shaybelle,
All I can say is, different strokes for different folks.
On one hand I can see that there are so many stories a writer can pull out of the air; on the other, focusing on one character for years ad nauseam becomes just that–sickening.
As you say, it is not Maurice’s fault, albeit his “not really being there” takes away from the import of his scenes.
The biggest problem with the character is the show’s insistence that he always be forgiven for all his crimes (including killing AJ) and never be wrong in any situation. Morgan’s death might have been a turning point for the character if Sonny had actually been responsible and finally — FINALLY! — realized that his actions have consequences. But obviously it was easier to just absolve Sonny of his guilt and make Olivia Jerome responsible than to write a carefully plotted arc where Sonny loses everything and everyone and is forced to realize that his redemption will only come through real change. GH could’ve used Morgan’s death to send Sonny out of town and find fulfillment in a simpler way of life which could’ve revealed new facets to the character (similar to how Y&R’s Victor found a sense of contentment when he was believed dead and started a new life with Hope in Kansas). Instead, the writers continue to serve more of the same old thing which hasn’t done anything to build viewership or stop the eroding female demographics.
Alan…Sonny always has a revelation when something major happens ie he was devastated after Lilly got blown to smithereens, he was devastated that Michael rejected him (and took Avery) after he killed AJ, he was devastated when Michael was shot and in a coma, when Michael killed Claudia and went to jail, when Michael was sexually assaulted…I think it’s fair to say he’s not going to change.
I’ve never been particularly fond of the character Sonny Corinthos. This guy is so entitled and so self-absorbed (and arrogant and obnoxious….) that I can barely watch him anymore. I’m fast losing respect for Carly. When will she finally think enough is enough and walk away from him permanently? I cringe when yet another episode is centered on these two bickering about their (5th) marriage. Jeez! Move on already!
As for Mr Bernard’s lack of an Emmy nomination… I am not surprised by this at all. I agree with the others who complain about his apparent lack of preparedness. Sometimes I wonder if he will ever get through a scene. If not for the GH budget mentality of “get it in one take people” there’s no way many of his scenes would be considered as in the can as shaky as they are. Gloria Monty must be rolling in her grave! She’d have never accepted many of his scenes as air worthy. He needs to step up his game.
It seems as though he ad-libs a lot of his lines and it does come across as being unprepared. Sick and tired of “Carson.” They have completely lost their spark. Time to move on. How many times do we have to hear Sonny tell some woman that they are the most important, and love of his life: Brenda, Carly, Connie/Kate. C’mon..
There does seem to be a certain repetitive quality to the “Many Loves of Sonny Corinthos,” when it comes to his professions of devotion and affection for his long list of “one and onlies,” dmr!!!! On one hand, we are supposed to believe that Carly is his ultimate “soulmate,” that they are truly destined to be together forever, yet, how many other deluded women have supposedly been his “shining star,” in life, as well???? I’ve actually lost count of all those gullible females who have fallen under Sonny’s spell, but the roll call of lovers is a lengthy one, to say the least! In addition to those you have previously named, there’s also been Emily, Claudia and Olivia, not to mention that mother-daughter duo that Dimples impregnated, Sam and Alexis, plus, let’s not forget his “Crypt Tryst” partner, Ava. C’mon, no guy is that irresistible, let alone, Old Sonny Boy! The only more improbable Port Charles version of Casanova was Luke!
Shay and dmr are both spot-on with the exorbitant amount of “loves of his life” and temporary trysts for Sonny. The worst was definitely the Sonny & Emily pairing. After many viewer complaints, that was shelved almost as fast as the equally disturbing Luke & Felicia flirtation.
@Steve….That Luke and Felicia “flirtation,” as you so delicately and diplomatically put it, was much more than “disturbing”…it was an absolute abomination!!!!
Maurice Benard is wonderful, period. The Sonny character is the foundation of the show. However, NEVER, EVER should any actor select his/her own reel without input from other actors. You simply don’t know your best work when you see it. No one does.
I may not be as well-versed in all-that-defines General Hospital, but I must disagree, with all due respect, Soapluv.
I may be wrong and may have completely misconstrued the ‘message’, since I am a late comer….. but, I was under the impression that the soap was founded upon the medical profession, in all its forms; ergo, the title. The center is General Hospital and the beehive of life in which its stories are based…..nurses, doctors, executive staff, patients and the extensions of their respective families, friends etc.
Sonny, and the life of crime he respresents, is but a mere facet of General Hospital, the soap. How is he the foundation?
Well, he is not the foundation. You’re right, Celia.
Amen to that notion, CeeCeeGirl! GH has ALWAYS been, first—and foremost—about the time-honored institution and its ensemble cast of medical and non-medical-based characters….at least that is the way it was intended! Even in the ’80’s with the advent of the Luke and Laura craze, arrival of superspies Anna Devane and Robert Scorpio and introduction of criminal masterminds like mobster Frank Smith and that “Clan from Hades,” the Cassadines, the hospital remained the hub of activity to which all roads eventually led back, no matter how far flung some adventures meandered…Hence to maintain that Sonny—or any other single character, even the now-departed Luke—has served as the foundation of this soap, is misguided, at best. But perhaps that just goes to show how terribly off-track the entire program has wandered, for anyone to make such an assertion. Quite frankly, I have long thought that GH has lost its way from its original purpose, with far too much emphasis upon the criminal element and especially its more recent efforts to become some sort of supersoap with the unwelcome overflow of marquee-name players from other daytime dramas, most notably those of the defunct ABC variety. To say that this show sorely needs to return to its “roots” is an understatement, indeed….and with that comes a most necessary de-emphasis upon Sonny and Carly, along with a number of otherwise unbearable characters that have no true place on the Port Charles canvas despite moving heaven and earth to try to make it so!
Celia,
I am not quoting nostalgia. Many things that were true 30, 40, 50 years ago – are not at all true, are not the case, are not in evidence today. Sonny being the major character around whom General Hospital stories have been developed for the past 10 years is just one more example of change. If you have any proof that the hospital, the Q’s or anything else (with the possible exception of Franco these last few months) or, anyone else has been a greater focal point of this show than Sonny Corinthos, his kids, his loves, his business, his best friend, his minions, his baby mamas, failed efforts to bring Sonny down, etc. – please help me see it because right now, IMO calling this show General Hospital is just keeping a recognizable brand and tells potential viewers nothing about the 2017 version of this show. As you probably know, that’s just fine with me because I believe the change in focus from the hospital to Sonny is the major reason GH is the ABC soap show left standing. Clearly, TBTB were wise to change the focus to my favorite character, Sonny. Adventure stories, mob stories, love stories, social issues with a nice flavor of Cassadines – that’s the backdrop. Even the Nurse’s Ball is about Magic Milo (Sonny’s minion) and beautiful shirtless men – not the Hospital.
Cella brings good perspective here as the hospital being the foundation was lost many years ago. That loss is the responsibility of GH writers and likely their higher uppers. Look at ABC’s evening schedule. Violence is their top priority in their programming. They’ve carried that over to GH. It’s a sad statement.
I follow you, Soapluv. Go with the flow….move with the times.
But, there’s no nostalgia for me. As I said I am a newcomer. I am merely expressing my opinion, according to what I envision of General Hospitala to be…..the hearth or nucleus of the soap.
I understand that there are other interests outside of the hospital, but giving the reins to one Sonny Corinthos, sort of “insinuating” him in every aspect of everyone’s life is over the top, for me. He is connected to everyone, one way or the other. ‘Tis the way of the doap-world, I guess. LOL.
Furthermore, what bothers me the most is how this pernicious man is elevated to the stars….trying to give him a sense of righteousness, honor and integrity, where no criminal has a right to even give it a thought.
What is wrong with this picture? It’s like regaling Lucifer with a halo.
Now, I can appreciate the fact that he is a fave of yours….you see the character through rose-colored glasses. I feel the same way gor Ava…love her!! So, I know the feeling. LOL.
But, to use Shay’s expression, the “Sonny-fatigue” does hit those of us who are not fans like a phalanx.
So far, all I have seen of General Hospital, itself, are killings by psychos, a giddy, little nurse ( Amy), strangely weird Franco, a priest-doctor, a man-boy ( Michael) as a board member….nothing fascinating….no hospital hub of which to speak.
Again, I do get it, Soapluv. Max Daddee says it all! And, says it well.
The show works best when it’s properly balanced. Hospital stories, mixed with ELQ, the PCPD, and yes, the mob. Right now, that’s tilting to much to the mob. To argue with point Soapluv made, GH was only saved from cancellation because it had the best name recognition. One Life to Live had higher ratings when the decision was made to cancel 2 shows. Recognizing this, ABC dismissed Phelps, Guza and Wolf who disproportionately emphasized the mob and shifted Valentini & Carlivati from OLTL to lighten the show up. Ratings improved until Carlivati lost his way with Fluke, Denise Demuccio and Elizabeth’s “secret.”
Only 4 contract players are medical professional characters. The majority are mob or law enforcement. I’ll give these writers credit for moving Hayden and Kiki into hospital related roles.
Hi Max. The network has to show what people want to watch. It’s business – profit, money, young viewers. There are 4 soap shows left out of dozens. None of the four are centered around a hospital. Shonda Rimes quality of talent is required to make a hospital show go and no soap today has that level of writing talent. Though I feel compelled to say, soaps do maintain an exceptional level of acting in many characters who could meet the challenge of superior writing, if only soaps could attract it.
You’re correct that the networks have to show what people want to watch…and judging by the women 18-49 demographics GH ain’t hitting the mark. The show continues to lose viewers in that key group and since the show is so Sonny-centric there’s really nowhere else to place the blame but on that character.
Shonda Rimes is crazy talented but she’s not the only person who can write a hospital drama. GREY’S is a medical show but the hospital is merely the setting to tell stories about the lives and loves of the staff who work there as well as the patients they treat. GH has the advantage over the primetime soap by having 250 episodes a year to delve into those same kinds of stories in depth and play all the emotional beats while also educating viewers at the same time. Yes, the show needs non-medical stories but focusing the show almost solely on a career criminal is a HUGE mistake. Varied storytelling invites new viewers to sample a show and hopefully get them to return to see how a particular story progresses and affects other characters on the canvas. With GH it’s all mobsters, all crime, all the time — if a viewer doesn’t like those stories there’s no reason for them to come back and see what’s new.
I am a firm believer that story is the true star of any show — daytime or primetime — and if the writing is one note or lacking emotional depth, all the stars in the world can’t save it.
I agree with you and Celia both. She’s right, I started watching soaps for the first time in my life in 2006 and I started because of Sonny. From what I can tell, none of the shows have choir boys as the star and that suits me fine. I have noticed morality is not taught on tv anymore, the more twisted, the better seems to be the theme but to Celia’s point and yours the writing is the real shortfall. I generally find myself feeling sorry for the talented actors who have to deliver drivel almost everyday.
They just rotate the same old writing teams from show to show as if no new talent exists. I’d love to know if it’s true that new writers don’t bother to learn the lost art of writing soap operas.
Beyond the Gates
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 16
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) today announced the full list of nominees for the upcoming 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, and it was CBS daytime’s The Young and the Restless and broadcast television newest soap opera, Beyond the Gates that racked up the most nominations with 18 and 16, respectively.
The full reveal on Tuesday follows the announcement of several major categories including Lead Actor and Actress on Monday via Extra and Entertainment Tonight and The View today revealing Daytime Drama Series and more.
The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmys ceremony is set to take place on Friday, October 30 at the historic Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California.
Photo: CBS
In a statement, Adam Sharp, President and CEO of NATAS expressed, “We’re proud to honor the extraordinary talent and creative teams whose work continues to define and elevate daytime television, As the Daytime landscape evolves and new forms of storytelling emerge, we remain committed to recognizing the innovation happening across the industry.”
“Each year, the Daytime Emmy Awards celebrate the creativity, passion, and dedication that drive this vibrant community of storytellers,” said Rachel Schwartz, Head of the Daytime Emmy Awards. “Congratulations to this year’s nominees, whose work continues to entertain, inspire and connect with audiences every day. We look forward to celebrating their remarkable achievements in Hollywood this October.”
The Daytime Emmy Awards have recognized outstanding achievement in television programming and crafts since 1974, honoring work in a variety of genres, including daytime dramas, talk series, entertainment news, culinary, adventure, instructional and legal/courtroom programming.
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Honoree, Gold & Silver Circle Inductees, and ceremony host will be announced at a later date.
Now below, check out the nominees in the daytime drama, talk show, entertainment news series and creative arts categories and congratulations to all!
Photo: JPI
Outstanding Daytime Drama Series
Beyond the Gates
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series
Stacy Haiduk (as Kristen DiMera), Days of Our Lives
Karla Mosley (as Dani Dupree), Beyond the Gates
Michelle Stafford (as Phyllis Summers), The Young and the Restless
Heather Tom (as Katie Logan), The Bold and the Beautiful
Tamara Tunie (as Anita Williams Dupree), Beyond the Gates
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Daytime Drama Series
Eric Braeden (as Victor Newman), The Young and the Restless
Steve Burton (as Jason Morgan), General Hospital
Scott Clifton (as Liam Spencer), The Bold and the Beautiful
Thorsten Kaye (as Ridge Forrester), The Bold and the Beautiful
Christian Jules Le Blanc (as Michael Baldwin), The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Daytime Drama Series
Linsey Godfrey (as Sarah Horton), Days of Our Lives
Camryn Grimes (as Mariah Copeland), The Young and the Restless
Beth Maitland (as Traci Abbott), The Young and the Restless
Trisha Mann-Grant (as Leslie Thomas), Beyond the Gates
Amanda Setton (as Brook Lynn Quartermaine), General Hospital
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series
Sean Dominic (as Nate Hastings), The Young and the Restless
Timon Kyle Durrett (as Bill Hamilton), Beyond the Gates
Michael Graziadei (as Daniel Romalotti), The Young and the Restless
Roger Howarth (as Matt Clark), The Young and the Restless
Mike Manning (as Bradley “Smitty” Smith), Beyond the Gates
Lawrence Saint-Victor (as Carter Walton), The Bold and the Beautiful
Outstanding Emerging Talent in a Daytime Drama Series
Braedyn Bruner (as Emma Scorpio-Drake), General Hospital
Al Calderon (as Javier Hernandez), Days of Our Lives
Alice Halsey (as Rachel Black), Days of Our Lives
Giovanni Mazza (as Gio Palmieri), General Hospital
Ambyr Michelle (as Eva Thomas), Beyond the Gates
Arielle Prepetit (as Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne), Beyond the Gates
Outstanding Guest Performance in a Daytime Drama Series
Jasmine Burke (as June Hughes), Beyond the Gates
Jeff Kober (as Cyrus Renault), General Hospital
Eva LaRue (as Natalia Rogers-Ramirez), General Hospital
Christopher Sean (as Paul Narita), Days of Our Lives
Ray Wise (as Ian Ward), The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Writing Team for a Daytime Drama Series
Beyond the Gates
The Bold and the Beautiful
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
Outstanding Directing Team for a Daytime Drama Series
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Casting for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Daytime Talk Series
3rd Hour of TODAY
The Drew Barrymore Show
The Kelly Clarkson Show
Live With Kelly and Mark
TODAY With Jenna & Friends
The View
Outstanding Daytime Talk Series Host
Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Alyssa Farah Griffin, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin & Ana Navarro, The View
Kelly Clarkson, The Kelly Clarkson Show
Tamron Hall, Tamron Hall
Jennifer Hudson, The Jennifer Hudson Show
Sherri Shepherd, Sherri
Outstanding Entertainment News Series
Access Hollywood
Entertainment Tonight
Extra
Outstanding Daytime Personality (Daily)
Mona Kosar Abdi, Derek Hough & Terri Seymour, Extra
Cassie DiLaura, Denny Directo, Kevin Frazier, Rachel Smith & Nischelle Turner, Entertainment Tonight
Scott Evans, Zuri Hall, Kit Hoover & Mario Lopez, Access Hollywood
Star Jones & Corey Jovan, Divorce Court
Outstanding Arts and Popular Culture Program
Beyond the Gates: Welcome to the Neighborhood — An Entertainment Tonight Special
Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter
Variety & CNN Actors on Actors
Variety Studio: Actors on Actors
Working In the Theatre
Outstanding Music Direction and Composition for a Daytime
Beyond the Gates, Episode 103
Have Guitar Will Travel World
The Kelly Clarkson Show Episode 5033
Let Frankie Cook,” Getting the Band Back Together
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Outstanding Technical Direction and Video for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates, Episode 104
The Bold and the Beautiful,” Episode 9511
Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade”
The Jennifer Hudson Show, ” Episode 4041
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”
Outstanding Hairstyling and Makeup for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates, Episode 103
General Hospital, Episode 15719
The Kelly Clarkson Show,” Episode 5033
The Young and the Restless,” Episode 13273
So, what do you think of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy nominations? Who are you happy to see receive a nomination and who do you think was snubbed? Weigh-in via the comment section.
General Hospital
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Award nominations kicked-off on Monday with the announcements of four major categories including, Outstanding Lead Performer in a Daytime Drama Series — Actor, and among the nominees is General Hospital’s Steve Burton (Jason Morgan).
Burton is already a two-time Daytime Emmy winner in the Supporting Actor category for his roles as GH’s Jason and his turn as Dylan McAvoy on Y&R. However, Steve is yet to win in the Lead Actor category and he has received 11 nominations along the way in his daytime career.
Following the reveal that he is a 2026 Daytime Emmy nominee, he and his GH co-star, podcast co-host and comedy show partner, Bradford Anderson (Spinelli) taped a special edition of their That’s Awesome podcast just featuring Burton’s reaction to the news.
Photo: JPI
FOR LESLIE CHARLESON
Steve expressed, “I know it’s such a cliche to say, ‘I’m just so honored to be nominated.’ But truly, I’m so grateful to be nominated, so grateful to just be on the show off and on for 30 plus years and to be nominated with the guys in my category. Just to get the opportunity. Frank (Valentini, executive producer, GH) texted me right away. I was just like, ‘Thank you for the opportunity to get to do what I do.'”
Taking in the moment, Burton thanked those who helped him select the material for his nominated reel. “Unless you win, you don’t get to say things. So. I’m going just say a few things: Elizabeth Korte (co-head writer, GH) helped me a lot with the material, (as did) Michelle Henry, who’s a producer on the show, Laura Wright (Carly, GH), and then my wife Michelle (Lundstrom). I believe it was Jill Phelps who told me that when A Martinez felt like he had a great show or great scenes, he would mark it down. So, when Emmy time comes, you have all the show numbers written down, and you don’t have to think about it, because that’s half the battle (finding the material).
Burton explained how meaningful this nomination is for him, because of playing the scenes of Jason losing Monica, and his closeness with the late, great Leslie Charleson.
“The nomination’s an amazing thing, and it’s beautiful, but really it’s to honor Leslie Charleson. A lot of my material was because of her, and how I started on the show as a Quartermaine, it just means a ton,” shared Burton. “Maurice Benard (Sonny, GH) has obviously has been instrumental, and I’ve said it from day one and I’ll shout it from the rooftops. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be here, and to be working with the people that we work with is incredible.”
Photo: JPI
SHOULD JOHN OLIVER BE NAMED HOST OF THE DAYTIME EMMYS?
During the end of his conversation with Anderson, Steve suggested that the host of the Daytime Emmy should be Last Week Tonight’s John Oliver, who recently guest starred as the head of the WSB named Z on General Hospital, and is soon to show up on Days of Our Lives in a mystery role in August.
Thus far, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences has not revealed their host for the upcoming ceremony to be held on October 30 in a venue to be named in Hollywood, California.
You can watch Steve sharing his reaction to receiving his 2026 Lead Actor Daytime Emmy nomination below on a special segment on the That’s Awesome podcast.
Now let us know, are you glad that Steve chose scenes surrounding Jason mourning the loss of the woman that raised him, Monica Quartermaine for his Emmy reel? What do you think of John Oliver as a suggestion to host the Daytime Emmys? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
General Hospital’s 16,000th episode was packed with little reminders through points in today’s script that the ABC daytime drama series has set another milestone and it paved the way for the return of fan favorite and newly nominated Daytime Emmy Lead Actor nominee Steve Burton (Jason Morgan). The 16,000th episode also introduced viewers to the new surgeon in Port Charles Dr. Tristan Roberts played by Dean Geyer.
Here are the key takeaways and what went down on the July 13 episode: Tristan and Jason are seated next to each other on a plane heading to Port Charles. Throughout the flight, a beaten up Jason has flashbacks to being thrown into, and being held captive in a cell and tortured. It appears Jason is suffering from some form of PTSD from what he was put through after being dragged out of Port Charles by the WSB months ago.
As the plane prepares to land, Tristan tells Jason there would be a car waiting for him once they land and to enjoy the rest of his life. Later, Tristan arrives at the nurses and doctors hub at GH and approaches Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst). He tells her his name and that he is the new surgeon on staff.
Photo: ABC
A REUNION PLUS A HEAD NURSE DEFENDS SONNY
Meanwhile, at the end of the episode, Jason is outside the Quartermaine boathouse looking bewildered when he runs into Danny (Asher Antonyzyn), who is so thrilled to see his father, and the two hugs each other as tears are shed.
Elsewhere, Elizabeth tells Sonny (Maurice Benard) that he thinks its a great idea for him to get the 16th seat on the hospital board, but when it comes times to convince Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot) of that, things go awry when Tracy, Laura and Sonny try to work things out. After Tracy launches into Sonny about killing Alan and Monica’s son AJ, Sonny walks away dejected.
Next, Sonny runs into Elizabeth, where he informs her what happened with Tracy. So what’s a head nurse to do? Elizabeth marches into the conference room and reminds Tracy of all the different donations and ways Sonny has contributed to the hospital from the Stone Cates AIDS wing, to the Michael Corinthos Center for Pediatric Head Injuries as well as his constant support each year for the GH Nurses’ Ball.
Courtesy/ABC
WSB WAR SCARS
Then, in one of the best parts for longtime fans of the series, Elizabeth talks about her legendary grandparents, Audrey and Steve Hardy and she tells Tracy they would have wanted Sonny to have a seat on the board for all the good that he has done for the hospital. After Elizabeth states Sonny’s case, things took a turn and Tracy and Sonny wound up shaking hands as Sonny is board member #16.
In the how great was it to see Anna (Finola Hughes) and Valentin (James Patrick Stuart) together scenes department, the pick-up of last Friday’s cliffhanger is played out as the two former lovers fill each other in on what has gone down in their lives in the last several months including Valentin admitting he had been living in Carly’s attic, and Anna realizing she was kidnapped by Cullum, Sidwell and Cassius Faison. During their conversation, Anna sees the hallucination of Peter August (Wes Ramsey) right while Valentin is standing there.
Courtesy/ABC
Later Anna was on her way to saying goodbye to Valentin, when the two share an emotional hug. After Valentin made his exit, Peter reappeared and warned Anna to not let Valentin distract her because she has important work to do. Anna answers, “I know.”
So, what did you think of General Hospital’s 16,000 episode? What do you think is wrong with Jason? What is the important “work” that Anna has to do? Were you glad to see Sonny get a seat on the hospital board, or not so much. Weigh-in via the comment section. But first, check out the scenes on Jason and Tristan’s long flight to Port Charles.
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 16
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actress Drama Series
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actor Drama Series
Scott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
Randolph Mantooth, ‘Emergency!’ and ‘Loving’ Actor, Dies at 80
‘The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards’ Nominations Announcement Date Revealed: Who Will Be Going For Gold?
Steve Burton Returns to ‘General Hospital’ on Its 16,000th Episode: How Will Jason Be a Changed Man?
‘Daytime Emmy Nominations Special 2026’ Live on the Michael Fairman Channel
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers Promo: Jason’s Back, Drew Begins to Make His Move, Portia Goes Into a Labor
Scott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL Preview: Daphne’s Devastated, Steffy Finds Herself at a Crossroads with Finn
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