General Hospital
GH’s Roger Howarth Chats On Shifting From Franco To Drew & The Stunning Story Twist
In one of the most intriguing plots of 2019, General Hospital’s Franco Baldwin was morphed into Navy SEAL Andrew Cain following a harrowing mind-mapping procedure. In all went down thanks to Shiloh (Coby Ryan McLaughlin) and Dr, Cabot (Time Winters), taking the life and memories of Drew (Billy Miller) from his flash drive and transferring them into Franco’s brain, wiping out his past and his present. That followed the tearjerker moment, when Franco sacrificed himself to free his kidnapped stepson, Cameron (William Lipton) from the twisted procedure; that could have left the teenager with Drew’s memories or even in a vegetative state.
The recipient of this storyline – and who would be taking on another persona in his storied daytime drama career – is none other than Roger Howarth. The Daytime Emmy- winning actor is no stranger to changing fictional identities on GH. Howarth, played OLTL’s Todd Manning over in Port Charles, later switching to Franco (previously played by James Franco) following the legal dispute between ABC and Prospect Park.
Last week, viewers got their first glimpse of Howarth taking on the traits of Drew circa 2012, and in short order, it has caused emotional upheaval for Franco’s wife, Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst), Drew himself, Jason (Steve Burton), and Kim (Tamara Braun)… and that’s just for starters.
Michael Fairman TV chatted with Roger as he started his journey transforming his work from playing Franco to Drew and the challenges it presents, plus the ripple effect the change will have on the canvas for many of the characters. In addition for One Life to Live fans, Roger chats about his appreciation for his time on that iconic series in a candid, self-effacing, and special conversation. Here’s what Howarth shared:
Courtesy/ABC
When you were told that they were going to put Drew’s memories into Franco, what was your initial reaction to learning that news? Did you think it was a great twist?
ROGER: Yeah, I think it’s a great idea. I really do. Good story needs a lot of things, and this checks a lot of the boxes. It brings people together; it provides obstacles. There are a lot of places this could lead to. I just think it’s really smart and interesting. I look forward to it a lot, and I can already tell by what I have shot thus far that it’s going to be fun.
If this story is written well, what has happened to Franco will be life-altering and crucial to so many people’s lives in Port Charles.
ROGER: What I like about it, and this isn’t lip service, is that it’s a great story because it affects a lot of people. Those are the good stories. Elizabeth has got to deal with this, the boys have to deal with this, Scotty’s (Kin Shriner) got to deal with it, Jason is confused by this information, and now this person in interacting with Drew, and Kim, and Shiloh. All of the sudden, the canvas is interacting completely differently. So, I think the writers are having fun with this as well.
Photo: ABC
Then, there is also the character of Kim played by Tamara Braun, who Drew shares a past with. It will be interesting to see how that relationship plays out, we already witnessed Franco’s Drew instantly smitten and attracted to her.
ROGER: Yes, the person in this body is running under a certain set of assumptions that no one else shares. So, yes, it’s confusing to everybody, I am sure, including Kim.
Do you see Franco eventually flipping back and forth, and having personality traits of both he and Drew?
ROGER: No. One hundred percent, no, and that provides a real obstacle with a couple like Franco and Elizabeth. They are always looking for obstacles to prove to the audience that these two people really do care about one another, and that’s the purpose of a story like this. I’m guessing and hoping that it will provide the character of Elizabeth with a particular objective because it would be nice to see Becky be able to play all of those beats.
Right, and to have to fight for something…
ROGER: Yes, it’s very tragic. This is a character that is accustomed to tragedy, and to see Becky play the role of Elizabeth dusting herself off, trying to get what she wants is going to be really cool.
Courtesy/ABC
The tragic twist had Franco saving Cameron from winding up with Drew’s memories and being the vessel for Shiloh to use. What did you think about how Franco sacrificed himself in order to protect Elizabeth’s son? It was quite heroic.
ROGER: I think the other beautiful part of this is that this was motivated by love. I don’t see it as heroic. I think as an actor, you’re always looking for the heart of the story, and the writers made it really simple. He does this because he loves this kid. Yeah, they’ve had their ups and downs, and they are struggling to figure out how they can get along, and they have a lot of things that they feel about one another, but push actually did come to shove, and I think that the character of Cameron is going to be deeply affected by that.
Courtesy/ABC
This now puts Franco deep within Shiloh’s storyline and past with Drew, because Shiloh desperately wants a key piece of information locked in Drew’s memories. So, in theory, this kind of ranks among one of the better stories you’ve probably ever gotten to tell in your daytime career. Everyone is hoping that it lives up to its expectations in the execution of it on-air.
ROGER: It is certainly a high concept story. It’s asking a lot of the audience. So far, we’re all in. It’s a good cast. I work with really good actors, so I’m not worried. It is asking the audience to suspend disbelief for sure. The good stories do. I think Erika Slezak (Viki) on One Life to Live, getting to play Dissociative Identity Disorder as Niki and Viki that was a large ask. She never blinked. She did everything that was asked. I’m trying to follow her example.
Exactly, and she played more characters. She had more alters after that.
ROGER: (Laughs) Yeah! She’s better at this than I am. I’m having trouble with the one. (Laughs)
Photo: ABC
What do you think about how Scott and Franco’s relationship will be affected, now that he is in essence “Drew”?
ROGER: There’s no part of that relationship that hasn’t changed because there is no Franco. Franco is not around … Franco has left the building.
He is a completely new person for all intent and purposes.
ROGER: For sure. This soldier doesn’t appreciate being called by somebody else’s name. He is not compassionate to the people who mistake him for this somewhat tortured art therapist that he no longer is.
Photo: ABC
What is also interesting is that this should put you right into conflict and scenes with Steve Burton, because now you are essentially playing Jason’s twin.
ROGER: Yes. For me, as an actor, to get a chance to work with Steve, and to play a like-minded person, is intimidating frankly, but it’s exciting.
Also, the audience knows how Franco and Jason are such enemies, and now, he is really in his mind his twin.
ROGER: Yeah, Franco sees in many shades of gray and other colors, and from what I can tell, Franco as Drew sees the world much simpler. He thinks more clearly, he finishes his sentences, he thinks before he speaks, he knows what he is going to say. His point of view does not waiver. He is determined.
Courtesy/ABC
That’s got to be so exciting for you to get to play after all of Franco’s psychological baggage and issues.
ROGER: I’ve got to say, it’s been a bit of a challenge for me to play someone with a different set of speech patterns and who stands differently. Because Drew thinks and feels differently about everything; his body is the same, but his body is behaving differently, and it speaks differently, and he thinks at a different tempo. They’ve been very patient on set giving me chances to do it badly, so far. (Laughs) It’s not uncommon for me to get halfway through a scene and to have to start over. I am essentially figuring it out as we go along. I am very appreciative of the fact that they have been giving me a few extra takes to try and figure out how this guy stands. He relates to people with a different set of space and time. It’s cool. It’s a cool set of puzzles. It’s been really fun. I’m a lucky guy.
When I first learned of the story twist, I was like, “Oh! Roger will be great in this.”
ROGER: I don’t know, man. I could be stinking it up pretty badly. (Laughs) I think there’s a trap as an actor who has been asked to play twins, and the trap is that this guy is only acting the way that he acts. The trap is frankly to act too much because the audience is being told that he is a different person. If I go too far to try to demonstrate that he is a different person, then it slips into parody or overacting. Over the years, I have definitely been guilty of overacting, so, I’m a little frightened of it. (Laughs) I don’t like the way it feels. I know how it feels to go too far. I have been getting notes like, “You could pull it back a little bit.” (Laughs) It’s pretty funny.
Courtesy/ABC
In the past, I have heard you say you’d rather go to work and feel unsettled about what you are asked to play. Does that still hold true?
ROGER: For sure! I’d rather go to work and leave my job knowing that it was terrible and that I get to come back the next day and make it a little better. The best thing about daytime is how much it will stretch you and pull you and ask as much of it as you are willing to put in.
Now speaking of Franco, what did you think about the wedding reception on the yacht with Elizabeth? Did you think that was a nice payoff for Friz fans?
ROGER: Yes, for sure. I thought it was a really sweet culmination to a sweet story about these two people finding one another. I’m glad they incorporated a large part of the cast. It was a really good idea.
Photo: ABC
What did you think of how all of Elizabeth’s boys (Cameron, Aiden and Jake) performed a song for Franco and their mom at the reception, and how Franco relates to all of them?
ROGER: I think it was a really important story point, and it was nice, and it was easy to play. They’re really good kids, and they’re also terrific people.
Franco really stepped up as a stepdad to Aiden, who had been bullied at school. I loved the cooking scene, where Franco was baking with Aiden. What do you think about their relationship? I love that Franco is being very understanding.
ROGER: I think he’s trying to be understanding. I don’t think he’s really great at it. I think he’s a human being just trying to figure out how to make the best use of his time here, just like the rest of us.
Photo” ABC
General Hospital needed a big jolt with an umbrella story like this that turns the canvas a bit upside down. How does it feel to be at the epicenter of it?
ROGER: I really don’t think I’m the center of the story. I’m not even kidding. The story is that this piece of information is worn on the shoulders of Franco, but the people who are most effected by that piece of information are Kim and Elizabeth.
It will be interesting to see what the reaction is like from the GH audience. You’re not on social media. Will you check out what they are saying … or the feedback?
ROGER: I’m not on social media. But, I believe there is a guy whose job it is to track that initial criticism/support. I think it is kind of cool that we will get real-time reviews, you know what I mean? I actually thought about that because with the character of Franco, it took us a while to figure out who the guy was. There was a lot of blonde hair and some missed cues, and we weren’t sure which relationship would be featured, whether it would be Franco and Ava (Maura West), or whether he would wind up in Carly’s (Laura Wright) arena again. It took a while to figure out the best way to put that guy in the canvas, and I imagine that it will happen again. I didn’t dye my hair for this, but I did cut it. (Laughs)
Photo: ABC
How was working with Billy Miller in this storyline twist? Were you there on his last day on set?
ROGER: Yes, I worked with Billy not on his last day, but on his last show. He was remarkable with dignity and with class, and I wish him all the best. He did a great job. He is a good actor. I’m sure he will find somewhere to go be an actor.
Throughout your soap career, has there been a story that you initially pooh-poohed, but when you did it, you thought, “Oh, this is great!”
ROGER: There was a story when Carly and Franco were together, and they wrote a story where Franco gave Carly a gift that wound up being a camera…
Photo: ABC
The evil-eye necklace!
ROGER: Yes, this small seeing rye. I just thought, every time Franco would come in and say something like, “Oh, you’re wearing the necklace. It’s so beautiful,” while we were doing it, I was like, “Wow. The audience is really going to hate this.” (Laughs) However, my real-time Twitter is the subway, and while it was airing, I got on the train and sat next to this really amazing fan, who just told me how much she loved that story, and I was honestly surprised and pleased. I am often wrong, and it doesn’t surprise me now when I am wrong … because I was really wrong then.
You mentioned Franco with Ava which was a potential pairing. I think you and Maura West have always had great chemistry together on screen.
ROGER: Yes, she’s a pretty great actor. She’s great with everybody.
She is. You knew Maura’s work first when she was at As the World Turns, while you were there, also?
ROGER: I didn’t know her well at As the World Turns, but I knew who she was. She’s a hard worker, and Jack (Michael Park) and Carly always had a lot to do. She was pretty focused when she was there, but I spoke to her. I didn’t feel like I got to know her until I got to work with her on GH.
Photo: JPI
Last month on July 15th would have been the 51st anniversary of One Life to Live. I saw a lot of people commenting and remembering the show on social media that day. I put together four photos on a post I made about that show featuring some of the remarkable actors who were a part of it. From there, I received hundreds of comments of how people were just missing the series, the characters, and actors they loved in it, including you. When you look at the list of people from yourself to Judith Light, to Robin Strasser, Bob Woods, and of course Erika Slezak – it’s such an unbelievably talented group who spent time in Llanview. Do you ever think about what an incredible experience that was, and how the fans still miss that show so much?
ROGER: All the time. I mean, I’m a lucky guy. I think it really was a special building to work in, and the people who we are talking about: Erika (Viki), Bob (Bo), Robin (Dorian), and Phil Carey (Asa), and Clint Richie (Clint), and John Loprieno (Cord), the people who made it possible for me to work there set an environment and a tone that made it a really special place. It was a really good cast, like you said, and there was a lot of opportunity for them to write a really cool story. I wasn’t a part of the AIDS quilt storyline, but to realize that they told a story like that and incorporated that into our show was wonderful.
Photo: JPI
Such an amazing story and One Life was telling socially relevant and important issues of our time, always.
ROGER: I can’t say for certain, but I do believe that the original concept of the Todd, Marty (Susan Haskell), and Powell (Sean Moynihan) storyline was kind of supposed to be initially an effort to bring awareness to a horrible, violent crime. That was a long time before the #MeToo movement. I think it was a show where the writers had a social conscious as well and really brought awareness to a lot of different things. That’s a great legacy and something that show should be very proud of.
Once the character of Todd Manning took off on One Life, and how they found ways to redeem him, and how it spoke to how much the network, the show, and the audience responded to your performances, did you ever feel you had a bit of a safety net as an actor, or were you like, “I’m going to be fired tomorrow?”
ROGER: This is truth: I am so grateful to have a job, and I don’t take anything for granted. I don’t think anybody is safe in this business. I just don’t. I just don’t think anybody gets to say that they’ve arrived. I just did a roundtable, and I shared this with people who have a lot more clout and opportunity than I do – that actors are by nature, the good ones, are aware that every day that you get to go to work is a privilege, and don’t waste it.
Photo: JPI
In soaps, for the most part, when someone is stepping into someone else’s role as a recast, or actor who played one role is changing to another, there seems to be this reactionary period of adjustment, and then, there is acceptance from the audience over time … unless you really stink it up … as you say. (Laughs)
ROGER: Here’s the thing, and this is why I think this is such a great idea, it’s not about me playing this part, it’s about how Elizabeth, who has been on this show for twenty-something years gets to react to it, and giving her the ball. It’s flashy that Franco is Drew, but it is really and Elizabeth/Kim story. I may be the one overacting and stinking it up, but it’s theirs. Do you know what I mean? It’s not my story.
Photo/ABC
What do you want to say to the fans about this new “role” you are taking on at General Hospital?
ROGER: I want to say that I really do appreciate the fans. Here is the thing, they’re down for everything. I hope they’re down for this. It’s a big ask, but I really hope that they like it.
So, what do you think of Roger as Andrew Cain thus far and how the storyline is beginning to take shape? Are you excited to see how Franco becoming Drew (through the mind-mapping procedure) shakes up the canvas? Do you hope Drew returns to be Franco sooner than later? Share your thoughts and theories via the comment section below.
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I’m excited for this because of Roger BUT I miss Franco. I loved Friz and I hope they can find their way back to each other. We shall see, I’m completely locked into this storyline.
I agree with the last comment but I would really like to ultimately see Franco and Elizabeth back together again just like Jason and Sam it took a while but they got back together again the story is intriguing at present and I would like to see what Drew’s Life was like in 2012 we heard about the Flash drive for so long and what was on it. Will be fascinating to see what was on the Flash drive
i lost interest in the flashdrive,drew didnt want to use it, since he is gone.it doesnt matter non
Not crazy about the story line but will watch what these very good actors will do with it.
Great interview. I don’t mind the twist as long as it’s temporary and not permanent. Because outside of finding out more about Shiloh/Drew’s relationship, I am not really interested in Franco as Drew. I’d rather he be killed off.
Completely agree
WHAT?????? Drew/Franco bill killed off?
The REAL Franco was rightfully killed by Jason, and that’s where it should have ended. There never should have been a Frodd, let alone a Drodd. This whole steaming pile of dragonshit is just leftovers of Frank & his pal ReRon trying to force a hybrid of GH & their precious OLTL, knowing full well that the soap they killed was already due for an online reboot, and would probably want their characters back. And yeah, that includes the whole existence of Drew Cain, because it was the destruction of core GH characters to benefit the OLTL interlopers which created… Read more »
boy, did you ever nail it.congrats to you. love your comment
I agree
me to.drew didn`t want to know what was on it he liked who he was now.it sucks now with this franco/drew junk. hate it
Actually pretty sure Drew would have gone through with having his old memories transferred if there had not been the question of losing his new memories since 2012. He didn’t want to forget his life with Sam, Scout, Danny, Monica, Oscar, etc.
But Drew was wrong to jump to that conclusion, considering Anna Devane is walking around with all of her own memories intact, despite having some of her sister Alex’s memories (such as giving birth to Whiny Heiny) implanted in her head. Considering then next time we see Drew, he will probably have another face, he will probably also have amnesia from the plane crash (as well as serious injuries requiring facial reconstruction) so when his memories finally return, he’ll somehow have his entire life in his head. On the other horn, if brains have different “sectors” like hard drives do,… Read more »
I haven’t decided yet. I wish Billy wasn’t leaving. I feel GH dropped the ball here. I wish Roger good luck with this storyline though.
Totally agree
Thanks for the interview Michael. The only thing keeping me watching GH is Franco/Elizabeth. Roger & Becky have amazing chemistry & they can convey angst, romance, banter, drama like no other. I can not wait to see this all play out. I also believe this will be a love conquers all story. Elizabeth will fight to save her husband & find a cure.
Roger gave such thoughtful & in depth answers & I loved reading his answers.
I agree the article is very good. I love the Friz storyline and the new Drew storyline, I know we are going to be on the edge of our seats trying to figure out the the storyline. If Franko and Elizabeth are not reunited and the story last for a year I may stop watching GH.
I agree, of Franco + Elizabeth DON’T get together within 90 days, my patience will dissolve and I likely Will Stop watching the show. It took SOO LONG to get them together as a Loving married couple!
!
If everything is perfect for this couple it will become way too boring. I’m glad the writers shake things up. Actors that aren’t given challenging roles often leave the show.
THEY COULD HAVE FOUND SOMETHING BETTER THEN THIS CRAP
I second that!! I will also stop watching GH if the writers don’t put Franco and Elizabeth Back Together by the end of 2019!!!
I SURE AGREE WITH YOU
i`m not on the edge of my seat for this stupid storyline and never will be. i absolutely. HATE IT
Love the franco drew twist…wish billy was staying…though this should give steve burton and leslie Charleston a little more to do. Still miss AMC and OLTL! Wake up ABC…reality tv is boring…nothing but a bunch of idiots trying to be famous…
I totally agree with Loretta about ABC waking up, I miss AMC and OLTL but don’t like the Franco to Drew twist…..love Roger and Billy!!!!
I also agree with Loretta. Wish Billy was staying, hate ABC didn’t find a storyline for him, before his exit.
I agree! Don’t know why they took it off!! I wish ABC would STOP TRYING TO MAKE STUPID PEOPLE FAMOUS!! Enough of these reality shows. Enough dragging out the Drew Cain and Shilo crap. It’s lasted too long. Let it end and stop letting Shilo find ways to get out of prison. Send him away for good.
Michael your interview with Roger was really down to earth. Your questions were outstanding to Roger, but Roger is too hard on himself. Yes this story does have a lit to do with Kim and especially Elizabeth, but this all couldn’t be possible with out Roger. His acting is spot on and so believeable. I think this storyline for him and Rebecca is just what there career needs, a hugh boost. I’ve been a fan of GH for at least 47 yrs and adore Roger & Rebecca, they were made for this part.
I think he is an amazing actor and he will pull this off better than anybody could. I do hope he eventually makes his way back to Elizabeth because I also love him as Franco and what he has done with the character. But in the meantime I really hope he sticks it to Shiloh
Carolyn Spoto
Well, finally someone who sees it my way. I can’t wait for this SL to get going. I think it will be very exciting. I think most of us agree that Roger is a great actor. So many loved him in One Life To Live, and I go way back to watching him on ATWT. Of course the writers can decide to have him play Franco again, but for now he’s our new Drew. There is so many parts to this Drew and his interactions with everyone. Can’t wait!
drew has no memories after 2012. hes not my new drew.memories does not make him drew. he has to have all of him/drew which he doesnt have
Ohkkkkķ!
Thank you Roger for giving Becky her due when you let her act she blows it out of the park I have never heard her complain about anything adore her ! Give her a chance to fly and she will! I have mixed feeling about this ! But remember we had the alien we froze the world Gh always for years has been out there
casey was a much better storyline
Roger is an amazing actor. He can step into any role
Personally, I would like to see the old Franco back. He has come to mean so much to Elizabeth and her children and it’s really redeemed his character. There is only one Drew Cain and that’s Billy Miller. I’m so heartbroken that he’s leaving and I wish him all the best. I think Roger is an amazing actor. I watched him on As The World Turns and now on General Hospital.
JI completely agree. Roger is Franco and Drew is Billy Miller. I also truly wish that Billy Miller weren’t leaving but I wish him the best wherever he ends up. 🙂
i agree with you
Gail, I totally agree with you. There is only one Drew Cain and that is Billy Miller, I will miss him and wish him the very best, hope to see him on my TV soon. Roger is a fantastic actor and I’m sure he will knock this out of the park, I do miss Franco. All around great acting.
I am loving this storyline. As
an over 40 year soap fan, I can see all the opportunities for Storylines. I thought Roger is killing it and yes, One of the first things I noticed was the change in body language, Roger seems to take up more space, like Jason. Loved the scene with Steve in the Bar when you could see in Jasons face that he recognizes this guy. That he has met someone who is similar to him and it throws him a little.
I think Roger Howarth is an amazing actor and Franco is one of my favorite characters. This is a great storyline that has great potential but I’m sad in a way to lose Franco as he was. It will be very entertaining I’m sure but I hope he doesn’t lose his “Franco-ness”.
Nina
I agree with you and all the others that are thinking of this as a positive thing. As Kevin said the other day. This will still be Franco physically but he will be Drew Cain in his own mind and memories. Hopefully, the two will merge, as Drew especially interacts with so many people. He will have good and bad memories. Poor Franco only had bad ones, until Liz and her family and his dad entered his life.
Set Roger free from Franco! The character should have left the building with James Franco. Let Roger stay as Drew.
NO, PLEASE DON’T!
Ok then let him be Todd that’s what we really want ABC!
I’d almost accept him as Todd right about now, as long as Blair and the Disney bubblegum princess don’t come back.
NO WAY. DREW LEFT AND FRANCO ONLY HAS MEMORIES UP TO 2012
Roger is a great actor but this should be Billy Miller’s story so I will not be be watching once Billy’s last scene airs. I have nothing but disgust for Gh and abc for destroying everything that Billy and Kelly brought to the show, including the #1 couple. The big return has been far less than stellar. It’s one big fail. I’m done with Gh & abc.
Billy is leaving because he wants to work primetime. GH didn’t get rid of him
They didn’t give him a storyline either.
Loved Billy on AMC, GH gave him nothing
Billy was also awesome on y&r as billy abbot
YOU ARE SO RIGHT AND I`M WITH YOU
And I’d say he just plain got fed up with the way they really messed up his character! Good luck, Billy!
YOU ARE PROBABLY ARE RIGHT
Not what Kelly Monaco is indicating . Franco come back
BILLY WAS ALREADY DOING OTHER THINGS SINCE HIS Y AND R DAYS, BESIDES YOU DON`T KNOW WHAT GH DID.
All bad rumors about Billy leaving. But he did only have a 1 yr contract
I completely agree that GH show-runners BLEW it with Billy Miller. He had zero story since Steve’s return. I feel that the best chemistry was between Billy and Kelly. The hot sexual chemistry died between Steve and Kelly when he left.
YOU ARE A BILLION PERCENT RIGHT
Nope , this story is BMs to tell they are just using smoke screens to divert attention from this . I ❤RoHo but it’s not his story . It would have been fantastic 2 yrs ago now its drawn out & boring
Totally agree. This story will go on forever, like they all do.
I’m also wish it could be Franco coming out battling both sides
Did you write out the character that was Luke’s cousin there was played by different actors before and was became a police officer and had an affair with Dante while back or is she just not in the story at the moment
I believe she left for greener pastures. If a character is left on the back burner too long….. I’m sad to find out that Stella is leaving just event get charter had had more sit time.
Right. Brytni Sarpy, ex-Valerie left because they weren’t using her and she was offered a role on Y&R. Dominic Zamprogna, ex-Dante was also put on the back burner and gs quit, too and once again with Billy Miller. After Steve Burton returned and Sam went back to Jason, Billy didn’t have much to do beyond waiting for Oscar to die. Now that he is leaving, they’re giving Drew more to do. I don’t know why this writers waste such talent other than there are so many actors and so many stories going on at the same time that they just… Read more »
I’m giving this thought that is Jerry jacks on the loose and hes going to be back in poor Charles causing a lot of trouble for the people of that region
I think it’s a big stretch of the imagination, but I know Roger will do a great job. He’s a great actor, and I’m excited to see how this will play out. I like him even more since reading this interview. How gracious and kind to his co-stars!
I want him to be Franco again
I hate it because I’m afraid there will be as many Drew’s as there are Sonny and Carly weddings. And I’m upset over how they have wasted the talent that is Billy Miller. But,,,,I’m a huge Roger fan and he’s going to nail it. I’m done watching at the end of this week, after 50 years .
Sounds like a few of us long-time viewers.
I hope the Drew and Franco bit is just temporary although it is fun for a change. I myself I’m tired of actors coming and going and returning, if you’re going to go, go but don’t come back, it just messes with the whole show. I loved steve Burton back in the day but when he left and they brought Billy Miller in I got used to Billy Miller he’s a good actor and he made Jason his own. And I think Billy Miller got a raw deal.
Waiting anxiously for storyline unfolding.
Have loved Roger’s
acting since becoming familiar with him on General Hospital. GH is the only soap I have watched consistantly since 1963 or 1964. There’s so many rich layers to this storyline and the potential of the actors to portray raw emotion will determine if this storyline will be the best in years.
I’m betting it will be,
the actors are just that good! Awesome interview.
Not too crazy about the storyline I think it’s kind of silly. I liked Franco’s character and that he and Elizabeth got married. I’ll keep watching and see how the storyline plays out and if Franco returns.
Love this storyline. Have been watching the show since 1966 and love how actors are utilized in so many roles. I watched Roger in OLTL until its demise and am so happy to see him on GH. Rebecca Hearst is an amazing actress and I love how she is fighting to get her husband back and help him to remember the love they share. It is kind of like watching an amnesiac living another life while you are trying to help them to remember what is real. Can’t wait to see what is next!!! As far as Tamara Braun, she… Read more »
I completely agree that its silly because its sci-fi and GH is not a sci-fi show. Leave memories on a flash drive to the Twilight Zone or Star Trek shows where they belong.
Then you don’t remember Casey the alien s/l
I definitely do remember Casey. I think I mentioned the alien in another post here. If not, I’ve mentioned it elsewhere. I never liked Mikkos freezes the world (via Port Charles) in the Ice Princess story arc either. I think Helena Cassadine is a bust too. She’s like a geriatric Angelique from Dark Shadows. p.s. I remember the vampire too on Port Charles. Dumb, dumb, dumb.
General hospital will soon be canceled. That’s what I think. Rebecca herbst should’ve jumped ship when she had the chance.
Abc would be crazy to cancel Gh there’s no way they’d give up all these loyal fans?! They have to know their method for counting viewers is inaccurate they don’t count or acknowledge all those viewers that don’t watch live or w commercials many many watch online! It’s been said over and over that gh fans would pay for a soap cable channel idk why they’ve not tried?! Not soapnet Altho I loved that but all gh all the time I think they should start over in decades and let the fans watch from the beginning if they want or… Read more »
There is no way this is Elizabeth’s story if it’s a darn love triangle for DREWS heart. This is definitely Rogers story, but as he said he has a social media guy letting him know what people think and a lot of fans want Liz to have her own front burner story.
I hope Frano gets back to Elizabeth they belong together. I cried when Franko changed to drew.
Really? Not me. I was irritated. So far Miller has had to endure two other actors playing his part. Roger is hamming it up and having a great time with that idiotic Southern drawl he uses. Horribly, overrated actor.
Roger is not using a southern drawl, he is a quiet spoken man. I am a southern and I know southern drawls. Nope
I know Southern drawls too, my point is that whatever accent he is going for, it’s not working. Is he trying to have a Southern Drawl? Beats me. And that odd accent comes and goes. And who decided that Drew should be a complete and total dick? Before this we were led to believe he was an affable, sweet and heroic man.
I enjoy him as an actor, and this character switch is allowing him to show his skills; but I truly hope that when all is said and done that he will return to his Franco character.
I only know that I will miss Billy Miller so much. He should have gotten the memory story a long time ago. I hope he eventually goes to another soap so I can start seeing him again. That show will definitely be my new soap….
I am really enjoying this storyline. Just huge question marks about how this transformation will affect everyone.
Great job Roger!
Roger seems like a really good guy,,I know he will do well with this role. BUT,,this is not his story to tell. This SHOULD have been Billy Miller’s story. I guess GH is trying it’s best to be cancelled. Too many viewers are out once BM is done on screen. See ya GH
I just want him back with Elizabeth and the boys
Elizabeth should be back with someone who is not a killer; that would be her former husband Lucky. Fat chance, I know!
Hate this story. The three faces of Drew? Poor Kim, no wonder she is confused. So far Drew has been played by three different actors.
I’m enjoying the story and I hope it helps them to put Shiloh in prison or he dies, it does not really matter when it comes to him!!!, I hope they quickly bring Franco back to Liz and the boys because I love them together, Please hurry with this story and bring Franco back.
Get through with Drew/Franco by somehow finding out about Shiloh has done and fix it. Give Franco back his life with Elizabeth and him become a hero in Cameron’s eyes. What Franco did…..his love for his stepson, taking Cameron’s place some give Franco and Cameron the best Father and Son relationship. Please don’t drag this out. And Michael needs to get his son back before the little boy is ready to go to school…..story has been on to long.
I think this story line is crazy. You can’t even believe it happening. I will not be watching. Done with GH and the crazy stuff.
It’s a great storyline. Roger is amazing. Just live him. But hopefully one day he will return as Franco.
I haven’t had faith in the GH writers for years now, but I really like this twist. It has all the hallmarks of classic 80s GH. I’m also a major Roger Howarth fan, so I’m really hoping this plays out well.
This storyline does give Roger the opportunity to branch out. He is such a good actor he can’t go wrong anywhere.Looking forward to seeing how this plays out.
What a great, humble man. In Hollywood, thats rare! Roger brings up an excellent point, he is not the center of the story, its all the actors around him who react to who he has become. Brilliant!
Yes, a very nice interview. An humble actor–rarity? But, oh, how I pity him!
I feel that Roger’s outstanding talent will really shine in this storyline.
I do not like the memory exchange story. Hate the way GH did Billy Miller, it wasn’t right. 23 Aug will be the last day I watch GH.
I am hearing a chorus of those comments now!
Franco needs to turn back to franco for liz
Yes I hope Franco comes back soon but before he comeback he expose Shiloh
I think that GH did a big dis service to Billy Miller with this story and the past 2 years. Billy is a 3 time Emmy winner who they put on the back burner. This should be Billy playing the part and not anyone else. Also if GH paints the character as Drew Cain in a bad way, then GH will just wait and be cancelled as viewers/fans will not support the show in this way. Already the show is in bad shape. Although Roger says it is about the characters of Liz and Kim, I bet that the character… Read more »
Difference here is that Jason actually BELONGS in this story, as he – like his brother Drew – was abducted, had his brain messed with (they tried but it didn’t take) and then was drugged and held prisoner by Whiny Heiny in some Russian torture facility for 5 years. Frodd/Drodd/whatever you want to call the over-propped pet is the one who has no business being involved in the story. But they abandoned the core basis of the whole cheesy sci-fi plot – the fact that it was about brain mapping IDENTICAL TWINS – in order to wedge Frodd into it.… Read more »
I agree, Satan. This is an utterly joyless, pointless story. And since when was Drew a totally selfish jerk? It’s not enough that they ushered off Miller without a Swan song, now they have to destroy his character while propping up the recovering serial killer who is now known as Saint Franco, the patron saint of cookies.
No, let Franco go! I liked Franco with Nina…now both are “gone” and that really was the only good pairing for someone as damaged as Franco. Elizabeth needs/deserves a stable man, mind-mapped FrankenDrew is not that guy. Kim is one step/ovum away from crazy- give her FrankenDrew. I doubt Roger enjoyed his character turning into the “carpool mom” in the domestic life that Liz leads…this is better for all involved! Maybe Liz can find a relationship where she is an equal partner and isn’t battling someone else’s demons all the time. She already has 3 kids- she needs a whole… Read more »
I think the story line is stupid, let’s leave the science fiction at home.
It is going to be interesting Franco is a great actor Feel sorry for Liz and especially the boys and another thing wrap up the baby switch so we can all fully get into this new story of Franco/Drew story.Thats how I see it
I love Roger, and know he can pull this off, but I don’t want this to last too long. I also hope for a Drew recast, because once we learn his backstory, which sadly should have happened a long time ago. We certainly do not need to lose another Q. I loved Billy playing every character that he was given to play! I wish him well
I think Roger is an amazing actor and his talent will be recognized as he changes personality from Franco to Drew. Love you Roger.
It’s fiction and a story with twists and turns I hate this character moments and I love this character moments. What more could you ask for. I’m fine with suspending reality in order to escape from reality and GH’s fiction seems to be the perfect escape. I’m not as fond of this character because I’m more of an “I love to giggle” person and well his Franco character with it’s quirkiness appeals to me. Kin Shriner has that ability as well. I’m looking forward to the story but I do hope that he reverts to his Franco personality before he… Read more »
Let’s just put it out there: Scotty as Franco’s father? Give me a break!
I agree, big mistake, I’ve watched Scotty since the beginning
I like Roger Howarth playing Drew Cain as opposed to Franco. I’m thrilled that he’s going to be the new Drew
I do love Billy Miller, but feel the Drew character did not allow Billy to show his animated, very cute personality as did the character of Blly Abbott on Y & R
No shit! While a Scotty & Heather hookup is historically plausible, both were on screen at the time, actually caring for Baby Jason for a short time after his bio-mom Susan was killed, and Heather was never pregnant. (and of course, there was never any mention of Jason having a twin either, though we are supposed to believe that both Heather and Susan trusted that wackjob Betsy Frank enough to leave their kids with her) The first mistake was bringing any OLTL cast members over in the first place. The second mistake was the desperate move of trying to resurrect… Read more »
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Port Charles Learns a Bomb Caused the Explosion as Lives are Forever Changed
This week’s General Hospital has reminded us all of why we love daytime drama and why GH possesses some of the finest performers in the genre.
Wednesday’s episode featured several emotionally-charged and gut-wrenching moments as loved ones find out the fate of several people in crisis, or have to deliver terrible news in the wake of the bomb explosion at the Floating Rib, which already had taken the lives of Dev (Ashton Arbab) and Dustin (Mark Lawson).
Courtesy/ABC
As we begin, Dante (Dominic Zamprogna) has a passed-out Lulu (Emme Rylan) in his arms and brings her to Portia (Brook Kerr), who sends her for tests. And in true soap opera fashion, just as Lulu was presumably going to tell Dane she still loved him and wanted him back (following Dustin’s death) … he never heard what she had to say.
Laura (Genie Francis) fills in Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst) that Dev did not make it, and then Liz decides to tell her son, Cameron (William Lipton) the heartbreaking news while he is recovering from his injuries. When she does, Cam is overcome and devastated as his mother holds him in her arms. Meanwhile, Carly (Laura Wright) is filling-in Trina (Sydney Mikayla) and Josslyn (Eden McCoy) about Dev’s untimely death.
Later, with Laura present, Portia tells Lulu’s loved ones that she has a cerebral contusion, and that there is a a traumatic brain injury which has caused swelling on the brain. Laura and Dante look on devastated. Portia then says they have already rushed Lulu to urgent surgery.
Julian (William deVry) is with Ava (Maura West) at Wyndemere. She is attempting to hide him there, while he figures out his next step after planting the bomb. However, Jason (Steve Burton) shows up looking for Julian now that Sonny found out that a bomb caused the explosion that ravaged the Floating Rib. From that point on calls are made to ensure Sonny’s family is protected as a mob war is about to go down. Sonny (Maurice Benard) and Jason believe all roads lead back to Cyrus Renault (Jeff Kober).
Courtesy/ABC
Jason leaves Wyndemere before spotting Julian; leaving a distraught Ava to come down hard on her brother … he has two choices… leave Port Charles, which she will help him do, or stay, and if he stays, she will not help him or be a part of his life. While they are discussing his next move, they learn Lulu is now in critical condition from the bomb. Ava tells Julian in no uncertain terms that everything he has done has come with a cost. Jason shows up at the Corinthos home where Sam (Kelly Monaco), who is not happy about any of this, finds out along with Carl,y that Jason believes he was the target at the Floating Rib.
Courtesy/ABC
As Liz is struggling to hold it together with Franco (Roger Howath) having brain surgery, she speaks with Scott (Kin Shriner), who did not know of his son’s tumor. She shares with Franco’s dad that Franco is worried he will wake up a very different person. Liz is told Franco is out of surgery, and is in tears over his hospital bed. She prays he will be alright and Franco wakes up!
Portia tells Nikolas (Marcus Coloma), Laura, and Dante that Lulu is out of surgery but in a coma, which Kevin (Jon Lindstrom) points out is normal in these situations. Dante goes to sit by Lulu’s bedside and begs her to wake up.
Courtesy/ABC
Then, in devastating news for Laura, Lucas (Matt Trudeau) gives her the real 411 on Lulu. He tells Laura that Lulu’s brain started swelling the minute she hit her head at the Floating Rib, and that her injury got worse the longer she was not checked out. Laura achingly realizes Lulu was so worried about Dustin that she never was immediately checked out for head trauma. Lucas lets Laura know that Lulu’s recovery could take a very long time, if she recovers at all.
Heart-tugging performances throughout the stellar episode were given by: Dominic Zamprogna, Genie Francis, William Lipton, Rebecca Herbst, and Maura West in very intense and dramatic scenes.
So, what have you thought of this week’s episodes of GH? The fate of Lulu? The performances from yesterday’s airshow? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
General Hospital
Ashton Arbab Says Farewell To General Hospital: “It Was Such An Honor To Have Worked Alongside Of Such Talented Actors”
General Hospital
Mark Lawson Shares Heartfelt Sentiments As He Exits General Hospital
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: A Tortured Thomas Has A Game-Changing Moment
Peter Reckell’s Music Video Debuts For His New Christmas Song ‘Under the Mistletoe’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Port Charles Learns a Bomb Caused the Explosion as Lives are Forever Changed
Y&R Previews Week-Long Celebration of Their 12,000th Episode
Ashton Arbab Says Farewell To General Hospital: “It Was Such An Honor To Have Worked Alongside Of Such Talented Actors”
‘Bachelorette’ Alum Kaitlyn Bristowe Wins The Mirrorball Trophy In Season Finale of ‘Dancing with the Stars’
All My Children Virtual Reunion On Tap With Jill Larson, James Kiberd, and More
Mark Lawson Shares Heartfelt Sentiments As He Exits General Hospital
GH Temporarily Recasts the Role Of Marcus Taggert
DANCING WITH THE STARS: Soap Alums Return to the Ballroom for Season Finale Tonight
THIS WEEK On GENERAL HOSPITAL: The Aftermath of the Explosion
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Julian’s Life Implodes As Bomb Explodes
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Port Charles Learns a Bomb Caused the Explosion as Lives are Forever Changed
Mark Lawson Shares Heartfelt Sentiments As He Exits General Hospital
Ashton Arbab Says Farewell To General Hospital: “It Was Such An Honor To Have Worked Alongside Of Such Talented Actors”
Y&R Gets Ready To Celebrate 12,000th Episode
GH Temporarily Recasts the Role Of Marcus Taggert
B&B’s Matthew Atkinson Weighs-In On Daytime’s Wildest Storyline, The Hope Mannequin & What’s Really Going On With Thomas
SATURDAY: Day of Days 2020 Virtual Fan Event
All My Children Virtual Reunion On Tap With Jill Larson, James Kiberd, and More
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: A Tortured Thomas Has A Game-Changing Moment
Peter Reckell’s Music Video Debuts For His New Christmas Song ‘Under the Mistletoe’
THIS WEEK On GENERAL HOSPITAL: The Aftermath of the Explosion
Y&R Gets Ready To Celebrate 12,000th Episode
B&B’s Matthew Atkinson Weighs-In On Daytime’s Wildest Storyline, The Hope Mannequin & What’s Really Going On With Thomas
Ryan Phillippe Opens Up About How Parents Shunned Him For Taking On Gay Role On One Life to Live & Part In ‘Cruel Intentions’
Tuc Watkins Talks ‘Boys in the Band’, Falling in Love, and His One Life to Live Co-Stars
This Week on General Hospital: Lives Are On The Line (Watch the Promo)
Go Behind-the-Scenes With The Bold and the Beautiful As They Mark 100 Episodes Back During COVID-19
WATCH: Kelly Ripa’s Walk Down Memory Lane with the Stars of All My Children & More On Her 30th Anniversary with Walt Disney Company
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General HospitalNovember 23, 2020THIS WEEK On GENERAL HOSPITAL: The Aftermath of the Explosion
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General HospitalNovember 21, 2020GENERAL HOSPITAL: Julian’s Life Implodes As Bomb Explodes
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General HospitalNovember 26, 2020GENERAL HOSPITAL: Port Charles Learns a Bomb Caused the Explosion as Lives are Forever Changed
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General HospitalNovember 23, 2020Mark Lawson Shares Heartfelt Sentiments As He Exits General Hospital
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General HospitalNovember 24, 2020Ashton Arbab Says Farewell To General Hospital: “It Was Such An Honor To Have Worked Alongside Of Such Talented Actors”
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PreviewsNovember 22, 2020Y&R Gets Ready To Celebrate 12,000th Episode
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General HospitalNovember 23, 2020GH Temporarily Recasts the Role Of Marcus Taggert
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InterviewsNovember 21, 2020B&B’s Matthew Atkinson Weighs-In On Daytime’s Wildest Storyline, The Hope Mannequin & What’s Really Going On With Thomas