General Hospital
Maurice Benard On The Morgan and Sonny Drama: "Being Bipolar As Much As I Would Want Everything On GH To Be 100% Real You Can Only Get As Close As You Can."
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
General Hospital Emmy-winning star Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos), who lives with Bipolar disorder, and who has been an advocate for understanding this mental illness, took to Twitter on Thursday as an important story begins to take shape on the ABC daytime drama series. The story is looking into the possibilities and the ramifications if Sonny’s son, Morgan turns out to be diagnosed as bipolar, just like his father.
While the series has yet to confirm that diagnosis in the story, all signs are leading up to telling the tale, which in a previous episode as spoken by Laura Wright’s Carly, can be passed on to a child and can strike individuals in their 20’s, and would fit with many of the outbursts, erractic behavior changes, highs and lows and more that have plagued their son.
Benard tweeted: “Being bipolar as much as I would want everything on GH to be 100% real you can only get as close as you can.” Maurice followed that up with: “If you love roller coasters watch General Hospital Friday but of course don’t miss today or any day or Sonny will not be very happy.”
Mental illness, and medical issues and dramas as depicted on television, whether it be daytime or primetime, often have to take some liberties to tell the story, while still doing their best to inform the viewers and to give the audience understanding for the human condition.
So, do you think as Sonny and Carly’s wedding draws near that Morgan and Sonny’s relationship will become even more emotional and touching due to both men having Bipolar disorder? Could Morgan do something do ruin the wedding? How will a father who lives with this condition every day, not feel guilt-ridden if he has handed it down to his child? These may be the issues straight-ahead on GH!
What do you think of Maurice’s tweet? Would you like to see the effects on the family if Morgan is diagnosed as bipolar? Share your thoughts below!
I dont have a problem with them doing the story and I respect Maurice as an actor but they need to recast Morgan. Bryan Craig cannot handle this type of story. Too heavy for an average kid.
Totally agree, Timm.
Morgan always seems like he is in petulant sulk.
I agree Timm. This Morgan has become a sulky child instead of the almost grown man that he is. I’m so sick of that look on his face all the time. I hope they re-cast too.
Yeah, Harry. Morgan is either sulking because he didn’t get the cookies and favorite ice-cream he wanted……OR, walks around with eyes half-shut, seemingly asleep.
Funny again how people view things differently. I think Bryan is perfect for the role. He conveys such passion, angst, a frenetic pace…wears his emotions, good and bad…on his expressive face. And…I rhymed!
Bryan is doing very well..
He has worked hard and has really grown into his roll.
when called for he can give great performances..
When Bryan and Maurice face-off there is electricity!
Either way, Rebecca, I hear the actor is in hot water for threatening a “Fan” on Twitter? We may get a recast, regardless? su0000?
As is so often the case, Timmm, Harry and CeeCee have correctly called this one! For a storyline so emotionally-laden, a more heavyweight actor is required for the role of Morgan. About the only dramatic ammunition Craig has going for him in the scary direction his character appears to be taking him is that heinous haircut….it absolutely screams complete whack-job!!!!!! (WT?) Also, whilst we’re on the topic of necessary recasts, throw Mikey’s Chad Duell in the mix….neither he nor Craig have the necessary acting chops to convey all the dark, insane baggage that being reared by Sonny and Carly hath wrought!!!!
Timmm…as a poster just so inaccurately stated…there is “no correct call” nor is anyone an authority on story or actor. As usual, you are gracious in your response. I strongly adhere to my opinion that Craig is not only good…but a very good actor…
I did read about the incident you mentioned. Didn’t see the Twitter exchange, but from what I gathered a viewer insulted him…then Craig’s parents…defended him..and then either his dad or both he and his dad made some threatening statement back to the viewer. Conflicting info unless the actual Twitter exchange is still out there in cyber town….
You’re right, Shay. Neither one has the wherewithal to express into their acting the melodrama ( in technicolor) they lived under the tutelage of their parents.
LOL, Shay….I had posted a few days ago that Craig’s new hair cut is due to the fact he’s balding. I noticed his hair was thinning on his cranium….before he sort of shaved his head. For some reason, my post did not make it. Head-shaving when balding has become the norm to young men. My brother told me….LOL.
Su…I agree with you regarding Sonny and Morgan’s scenes. They’re dynamic! As an aside, Craig plays perfectly into the Corinthos role…bad boy good looks with ANY hairstyle
I’m afraid that this story does not interest me much. Perhaps I’m just worn out by the lackluster stories and the pacing of the show for the last six months or so. I think in years to come the return of Jason, as played by Billy Miller, will be regarded as one of the most botched returns of a major character on any soap ever, as well as one of the biggest wastes of a major talent. Jason should have recovered from his accident as Jason Quartermaine, with no memory of Jason Morgan at all. Miller could have swaggered through that story line and the ramifications would have caused fireworks. It was a no-brainer and a major missed opportunity. Instead, it’s a year later and the Jason story has become more and more contrived and frustrating. GH should have gone with the story of Morgan turning on Sonny and joining forces with Julian. That story was rooted in the very believable idea that Morgan was crushed by having had to play second fiddle to Michael his whole life. It was rooted in history. This story seems contrived. GH is my main soap – I scold it because I love it.
I see and agree with your points. Good post Mister Media.
As much as I loved Sonny’s journey through Bipolar denial, acceptance, and treatment, I don’t think that should be Morgan’s story.
He is a perfect blend of all of Sonny and Carly’s worst traits (where Michael seems to be a blend of their best). He’s angry, impulsive, moody, and makes really bad decisions (like Carly and Sonny did back in the day).
Morgan is really immature for his age and has some serious growing up to do and that’s either going to happen over time or after a serious incident that forces him to deal with the fall-out.
For Sonny and Carly I can see where a bipolar diagnosis would almost be the ‘easy’ answer, it’s a known quanitity that they have experience with, but I think their journey in this is to possibly realize that they need to be better parents.
I respectfully disagree… In allowing a story line of this caliber to be linked into the next generation is an incredible feat… Moreover, the reality of this happening is more true to life than fiction…
With the respect that Soap Operas are not responsible for teaching or being the society guideline of reality, there is an opportunity for a teachable moment for many people that may not have direct contact with someone who has a mental illness…
Maurice has always been “Sonny” and always will be… Until today, I thought Bryan was a fine actor, yet I could not see the cohesiveness with Sonny and Carly, until today… The scene that was play out was incredibility vulnerable to watch as Sonny, and Carly have an intervention with Morgan…
As a parent, I can tell you that no parent wants to have that discussion with their young adult child…
Yes, it is just a show and its not curing cancer, but it just might broaden human compassion for those with mental illness that have be shunned…
well said Michele. I hope the story is done in a way that educates fans about the disorder of Bipolar and continues to show the acting talents of Sonny. Morgan, Carly, Michael, Dante & Christine. Bipolar is really a family issue.
Maurice and Laura did a great job!
Avril_lee, I agree with you 100 percent. I even see his choice of Ava as being a result of being around a mother who constantly schemed and lied. Carly only very recently grew up herself. I’m not sure Sonny has. In any case, if they go down the bipolar route, it will be a refreshing change for all characters involved. And at long last it will be some meaty material for Bryan Craig who seems to be well-equipted to handle it.
I like how RC has written a story for the Corinthos family.
I like Sonny, he is two sides of the coin..
A mobster and a family man.
I hope Morgan is not bipolar.
I believe Morgan is simply a messed up guy.
His life is enough to mess up anyone lol
Being fugedup and having bipolar-ism are two different things.
Sonny is a cornerstone of GH..
I see some people being irrational yipping about it becoming the Sonny show, again
that is stupid.. Sonny has not been close to even being an upfront story character for a very long time. (but it gives them something to complain about that has not yet happened)
This story is not about the mob (darnit) it is about father & son and family.
I am really enjoying GH these past weeks since Luke’s exit.
I’m looking forward to this Morgan story.. Brian has become a great actor!
Maurice is a phenomenal actor, I’ve great respect for him..
Also- looking forward the Sonny & Ava facing-off 🙂
su000 and Michele, I totally agree with you both, PSA are not new to soap audiences. People need to be aware, as for Maurice, yes he will be the Luke of the future, without Sonny there is not much of a show. I do miss Luke but so far it is just like one of his vacations. Bravo, to this story, just wish it were a bit more real, but like Mo said, it can not be 100 %
I’m surprise it wasn’t pass down to Dante! He’s Sonny’s son too!
Bipolar disorder tends to run in families. I think if done properly this will be a very good story line. I wonder where you got the idea that a bipolar diagnosis would be almost the “easy answer”? No parent who has just been told their child has this disorder would agree with that statement. No sister/brother who has to deal with a bipolar sibling and/or parent would agree with that statement. And I am not talking about just denial, acceptance and treatment. There is much more involved! I come from another perspective; my mother and my sister are both bipolar. What I want the writers on GH to do show how the other members of the family deal with this diagnosis.
I want the writers to show what happens in both full blown manic phase and a full blown depressive phase; not allude to it. And I want the writers to show how these full blown manic and depressive phases affect the entire family. I want the writers to show how difficult it really is for a patient who is bipolar to find the right medication. I want GH to show that what it means to Morgan and family that most prescribed bipolar medications today are NOT mood stabilizers; these drugs only address mania or only depression not both. I want the writers to show how difficult it can be to get someone with bipolar to take the medication every day.
Finally, I want GH to address the reality of a decision that people like my father, brothers, myself and other families who have loved one with bipolar disorder have had to face. That is going to Court to ask for conservatorship because the loved on with bipolar disorder has become a danger not only to him/herself ad others.
Beautifully said!!
Thank you, Kelly. I agree with your every word.
A soap is fictional not logical.
IF bipolar it will be used as a drama tool.
Bipolarism is very different for each person, it can not and should not be analyzed in a fictional soap opera.
People need to seek a conference with their doctors about bipolarism, not seek answers via fictional story telling soap opera.
So because GH is a soap opera and is fictional the realities of the bipolar disorder should not be discussed. Morgan should simply get medication and nothing more said? Yet they analyze why a rape and/or murder took place all the time. GH should show Sonny, Carly, and Morgan in conference with doctors. GH should show Sonny and Carly having to deal with a non compliant Morgan, etc. etc. Life is not all sunshine and roses.
It’s possible for a soap (or any other genre) to be both fictional and logical, su0000. The two aren’t mutually exclusive.
It’s been done before (and even on GH). And it’s generally been better at sustaining long-term ratings than the “it doesn’t have to make sense, it’s a soap” approach.
Nobody’s denying that soaps have their hilarious built-in implausibilities: people back from the dead, amnesia at an alarmingly high rate, children that the parents didn’t know existed. But it’s possible to write within that and get the details right. It tends to make it easier for most people to suspend disbelief and get caught up in what they’re watching.
I agree with you, Kelly. My father was very likely bipolar and my sister also. Then I married someone who is also bipolar. GH does a very good job with these special storylines and people can learn alot from the info they give out. Seeing it is much better than reading an article.
hi Mary..
I’d imagine none are like bipolar Sharon Y&R..
burning down houses, making families believe they are or are not the child’s parents, breaking laws, plotting horrible deeds and doing a variety of bipolar soap entertainment crazy drama stuff, living on the fiction side of life?
All I learned from Sharon’s bipolarism is if she doesn’t take her pills everyone best take cover ..
that is soap opera bipolar lol …
My husband is bipolar, he has had it for years, although when we first met and the first few years of our marriage you could never “see” it. Although, over the last 3 years it has really taken a toll and you can tell he has it. His erratic behavior, all the highs/lows and all the other symptoms. I’m so thankful to the GH writers for bringing this storyline out, you never know who you are going to touch out there and truly who needs the help! When I saw Sonny talking to Morgan and he was telling Sonny how things were and then how they are now, everything is o.k., I don’t need help as he said, that is typical. This is what I’m seeing in my husband. He has never thought he was mentally ill, although everybody else can tell including me. I hope they continue with this storyline, again, you never know who it is going to help out there.
You said exactly what I was wanting to say, only so much better!
I so agree, my husband is bi-polar and my youngest daughter is bi-polar. No one can know what it is to live with someone with mental illness until it happens in your family. If the story line helps one family it is worth telling.
I think one has to read between the lines when Maurice says that if they’re going to do a bipolar story it has to be a hundred percent realistic.
In other words, if they cannot do it right, then they should not touch upon it at all.
That is exactly what I have intimated, Harry. Unless, it is authentically presented, 100%, it won’t work. I agree with Timmm. If this is the venue the writers choose to take, then Morgan should be recast. I truly do not feel that Craig is ‘robust’ enough, mentally or professionally to approach this emotionally charged storyline. He will not give it justice.
Hi Harry 🙂
I think Morgan is simply a head mess..
He is looking good to me, not bipolar, just needs to get himself together, on the right track.
no way on this planet could a complicated inflection as bipolarism ever be a hundred percent realistic. soaps are not logical lol
Even the Doctors working with bipolar patients do not fully understand it..
bipolar stuff would just be a drama tool to make him a cry cry like Sharon going full dingo on people and things/houses..
Hi Harry…I think Maurice has said in interviews how happy he is that GH incorporated his own bipolar into the storyline…and I think he probably gives great input from his own experience with it. I also think he realizes the limitations of an ensemble cast with various ongoing storiestablishment…but still appreciates the opportunity to be part of getting bipolar awareness out there. He’s very open talking about as well as playing a man with his real life condition.
I think having Morgan being diagnosed with Bipolar and how it impacts the family would be an awesome story line. It would be about time someone would be brave enough to take that type of story line on.
Yes, I agree. But, we are not on ‘terra firma’ here. This is such a very delicate subject . It should be handled like a baby. Not only should TPTB educate themselves on this complex disorder and the different ways it manifests itself, but the actor portraying the affliction should also be prepared and profoundly understand the intricacies of the disorder. I do not feel that Craig’s Morgan will be able to shed his immaturity and not-so-honed craft for such an undertaking. I know what I see; and, at the risk of getting blasted, in my humble opinion, Craig is not a good actor.
GH has an opportunity to actually tell a story. GH fans were tired of all the choppy writing and stories that didnt connect with a beginning, middle and end. Here is their chance. They can also help an educate fans BUT Bryan cannot handle it. Maurice and Laura can. If Morgan is not casted right, the story falls flat!
@Michael ( not Fairman).
Your post is so on the mark, I am left speechless. You have said it all, clearly and without criticism, but only stating the facts.
I wish I could maintain my dignity when I speak of Sonny, but I cannot see straight when he even comes to mind. …..I see orange, ahem, I mean; RED !
The idea of mob families is defunct, as far as I’m concerned. I am so not impressed by this man….as the character. Bad, bad representation of Godfather of the night…or Spiro. It is a mockery.
I do agree with Timmm that Sonny stepped up to the plate with Carly bemoaning their screwed-up son….yet, I was not impressed. Carly, the Mary Magdalene of GH, was not credible because I cannot erase how indifferent she has been toward her children….that is, putting Sonny first. As a mother myself, her devil-may-care attitude, just doesn’t compute. And, Sonny? I was so unaffected by his acting….he might as well have been talking about the weather.
What happens when Sonny loses his grip on his organization or reality? Or, if he expires? Who will take the reins? Not Michael! Morgan? That’s a laugh. Will he groom TJ? Please, let it be the end of an era, and call it quits. Just sayin’. Don’t be mad, anybody.
I have no interest in anything related to the Corinthos clan and the thought of them getting more airtime (coupled with the dismissal of Ron Carlivati) already has me ready to tune out. The last two days of Sonny and Carly talking about Morgan potentially being bi-polar have seemed like the same scenes over and over.
Also, based on Passanante and Altman’s handling of Nikki’s MS, Dylan’s PTSD, and Sharon’s bi-polar disorder on Y&R I don’t have a lot of faith in this being more than a 6 week plot point that is dropped and forgotten after its initial “shock” value wears off.
Sorry Alan, then maybe you should tune out. The Corinthos clan is a big part of the show.
Yes, the Corinthos clan is a big part of the show and unfortunately I think the show’s insistence on continuing to focus on them and the mob related stories is what is dragging it down. At the peak of their popularity, the soaps were romantic escapism with stories built around starcrossed lovers and their fight to overcome the obstacles in their way; Luke and Laura’s wild adventures in the 80’s boiled down to the nice girl and the guy from the wrong side of the tracks trying to be together. People can turn on the news to hear about violence, the soaps should be about the lush fantasy romances they dream about having.
But it hasn’t always been, and there’s no reason it couldn’t not-be again.
For example, the Hardys were also once a “big part” of the show and are no longer. And the Scorpios. And the Quartermaines certainly don’t have anything like the presence they used to have. So it’s entirely possible to diminish a family’s importance on a show if TPTB choose to do so.
I’m not sure how far Alan goes back with GH, but I’d definitely argue that those of us who have been viewers since before Sonny was even around have the right to remember that the show existed (and quite well) without the Corinthoses and to think that their air time could be better used. I can accept that they’re now an important part of the canvas and their stories will continue to play out, but I have no desire to return to the days when they and the mob were the focus of the show. Shifting away from that was one of the smarter and more perceptive things that Valentini-Carlivati did (in their first year or year and a half; I certainly wouldn’t make that argument about the last two years, although I’d bet money that the renewed mob presence was an ABC idea).
I can’t believe that ABC (because that’s where I think this is all coming from, not the new writers) thinks more of a focus on Sonny is the ticket to better ratings. It might be OK if the focus wouldn’t be the mob part but instead the family-dynamics part, but I’m sensing we’re in for more mob-mob-mob, which is what almost got the show cancelled a few years ago.
Whatever they do, I hope it’s done with some balance; that’s something this show really needs where the mob is concerned.
Regarding the Morgan story specifically, I’m not opposed to exploring this, given that the genetic connection on bipolar disorder is a reality, but I agree with someone above who said that having Carly and Sonny forced to deal with the fact that they’ve been lousy parents would be a more interesting story. (But of course the show will not go that route, because it will never let Sonny be portrayed for exactly what he is and the mob lifestyle portrayed for what it really is. That brief period in which Michael handed his parents their heads and called them out for the lousy human beings they are was probably the closest we’ll ever get to that.)
Alan, we all have our opinions but how could you not appreciate what Carly and Sonny have done this past week? They were actually being good parents. Sonny was not throwing things against the wall and threatening people. Carly put someone besides herself first. You must have a thing against the C’s because you missed their brilliant acting. HOWEVER, I will agree with you about the two lady writers from Y&R botching Sharon’s story and Nickki’s.
Sonny and Carly are awful parents in every sense of the word going back to how they took Michael from AJ. They have consistently lived a lifestyle that has repeatedly put themselves as well as their children in danger. And don’t forget that Sonny killed AJ and Carly helped him cover it up so she wouldn’t lose the love of her life.
Maybe it was the writing but when I watched the scenes all I saw was Sonny making it about himself — “What if I gave this to my son?” — and Carly telling Sonny not to blame himself.
I pity poor lil Avery growing up in that household.
Alan & Michael(notF)… Between the two of you I think you echo a lot of my sentiments. But I’ll continue watching in hopes the new/old regime will breath new fun, romantic, adventurous life into GH. Plus, you left out Josselyn when it came to Carly’s mothering skills.
Several members of my family have bi-polar disorder and I think that MB did a commendable public service to bring to light his own, but
I personally haven’t seen Morgan display behavior that would indicate he might have it. Anyone can have highs and lows, and may even just be temperamental. When Morgan was a little boy, he was the most balanced of his blood ties. Yes, Bryan Craig’s Morgan broods at times, has been a manipulative, sneaky liar and is basically a 20 something whose hormones are driving him to sow his oats with a 40 plus female. He desperately wants Daddy’s acceptance, love and approval and doesn’t know how to get it, or have an inkling as to who he (Morgan) is yet. just as we don’t. Morgan has no ambition, doesn’t work and isn’t encouraged to do anything by his so called concerned parents. So if the new old writers are going there just to prime and plump up the Corinthos scene again (ugh) they’d better take Maurice’s input and make it as close to real as possible. The direction this story is going reeks of the tired,worn out D.I.D (once known as M.P.D) played out on OLTL. Cant’ they come up with something new and different for Maurice and his familia?
I don’t know if this is true but I have heard from people in LA is Maurice Bernard has been pushing for this story line for a long time.
I don’t think this story should be Morgan’s story as well. Maybe Avery when she is older. Morgan should be made to deal with his abandonment issues with his parents not a mental disorder. Sonny has to deal with this disorder Morgan has enough issues to deal with that his parents caused and coming up with a mental disorder now is going to look likes your grasping for something to be wrong so you can easy their guilt.
Thank you….good woods…perfect analysis, Gloria.
Hi Gloria. I’m not sure I’d agree that Morgan was abandoned. Carly sent him away to boarding school to keep him away from Sonny and the mob if you recall. Max was a huge influence on Morgan’s life and they had a strong bond…while Sonny was jealous of Jax’s relationship with Morgan. And…Michael was a great big brother.
Given that he was very much loved as a child and his sweet temperament did radically change, I think the reasons for Morgan’s erratic behavior could be caused and logically explained by some type of mental condition brewing over time…though I do also feel he’s bren jealous of Michael’s place in Sonny, Carly and Jason’s hearts for a long time as well. He’s been trying to “win” first place with them ever since he returned from school….
Meant Jax… not Max!
Maybe bi-polar, or not…yet to be determined. But another way to look at this is that being abandoned was how Morgan”felt” about being sent away. He was too young to even consider safety, but instead was being separated from his family and Jax. Understandable he could be majorly acting out. I have also heard that sometimes the second child (after Michael) sometimes feel shortchanged re: attention, and sending Morgan off to boarding school could only reinforce this. And he was Carly and Sonny’s biological child compared to Michael. Plus I think that Bryan/Morgan along with Kiki have been doing a really good job showing their angst, betrayal and frustration lately. Bryan may not be Al Pacino, but he is closer to the same age of Morgan and is acting like I think someone their ages would act.
Yes I think we can agree on that Rose. If I remember correctly Morgan was upset when he was sent away, and was VERY attached to Jax. We can only assume there were a lot of visits, calls, etc… Carly was a better mom then. She wanted Jax to be Morgan’s father, wanted Jax to influence Morgan, to be exposed to his world instead of Sonny’s. Unfortunately, though Jax tried to stay involved in Morgan’s life Sonny re-entered the picture. And yes, as I too stated in my post above Morgan has always seemed lost in Michael’s shadow. The one-way rivalry is palpable. (I never faulted Michael though…he has always been, and still is, good.
Also agree…both actors/Morgan and Kiki… have been knocking it outta the park Kudos to both!
it is a hereditary condition and can plague many family units as well as individuals. I think it is great to add it to the storyline. Go Maurice!
I hope Morgan gets evaluated and then finds out he is just a screw up, not bipolar. That is more realistic. I have not seen the mania associated with this disease displayed, just bad decisions and selfish behavior as many 20 year olds display because they think they know more than they do.
hi tml..
I hope Morgan is just a messed up guy too..
IF they go with bipolar- they will have to exaggerate it afterall it is entertainment and not a medical documentary.
The bipolarism would be used as a drama tool.
Soaps are fictional entertainment and when they get into medical anything it has to have entertaining drama, be written for entertainment.
Look at bipolar Sharon Y&R all the things her bipolar has been burning houses, braking laws, changing DNA and on and on it goes using her bipolarism for entertainment.
Her fans hate what they did to her by making her a mental case. (lol pun)
Su0000,
Why is it that you have to constantly bash/disagree with everyone else’s opinions and story wishes? My great grandmother, grandmother, my cousin and even I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. It can be a debilitating disease that not only affects the person surviving with it, but also friends and family members of the person diagnosed with it. GH was at its best when it touched on serious topics and issues such as Breast Cancer, Rape, and Bipolar disorder. So, by all means, I hope GH goes down this road again and has a chance to educate viewers more on this disease.
Entertainment and exaggeration are not automatically connected, su0000. As T has pointed out here and others have pointed out elsewhere, it’s possible to write a realistic story around a medical or social issue and have it be entertaining. It’s been done, quite successfully, on GH and elsewhere (and it used to be the norm). When it’s exaggerated (as you chose to term it), that’s a choice made by TPTB and/or the writers, and they can make a different choice.
If they’re up to the task, of course.
(And seriously—you’re using Sharon’s storyline on Y&R as an example of how it should be done, when you’ve done nothing but bash it at every opportunity [and I agree]?)
Su, it is real life….and, as I have said so many times before, soaps may be fictional, but even fiction mimics real life, with a few twists and turns, here and there. C’mon, su….every essay we wrote in school was fiction; but, based on reality. From where else would we draw our thoughts and conclusions? It is the same with wring for a soap or a novel. It does not make it a documentary. The majority of viewers expect this, they want to understand what they are watching….without understanding there’s no involvement?
The Sharon ‘mishap’ was handled horribly, you’re right. This is why I keep insisting that Morgan should be recast if this is the way the storyline goes. It would be a great story, if told with substance and TPTB are well-informed. But, by the same token, it would be a great tragedy if Craig assumed the characterization. Unless he morphs into this unparalleled actor overnight, he will not be able to carry this character through. So, I also agree, to let sleeping dogs lie, and just leave Morgan as a spoiled brat, or suffering the consequences the feeling of abandonment his parents stamped on him. Gloria’s post says it best.
I also agree with tml. Morgan, as a screw-up, makes much more sense. Later, gator.
Correction…writing for a soap….not wring
Michael (not Fairman)..
sure, but–
has Sharon Y&R been written factually, any info about bipolarism outside of her crazy deeds, and she has done some really breaking laws crazy stuff, not helpful to and real bipolar people..
Sharon’s bipolarism has been written for soap drama entertainment.
And she was written by the same two writers who would now be Morgans bipolar stuff, if they go with it.
even the Doctors who treat bipolar people do not fully understand it, no way in hades will a soap opera writer who writes drama for entertainment.
T..
I do not bash, anyone.. I disagreed..
I speak my mind .. and I spoke up on how ridiculous it would be to write a life long story of Bipolarism for Morgan,, yes- lifelong, it is not curable.
Bipolarism is -different- with every patient.
Again- Doctors do not fully understand bipolarism because it is not the same for all.
there are different degrees, sometime there are -other mental factors- included in a bipolar diagnosis.
To attempt to inform anyone on bipolars in a soap operas written by writers that hold no medical degrees to be able to represent bipolar of –one– person to match millions yes millions each with their type of bipolarism, is ridiculous.
Soap opera Bipolarism is not going to portray every aspect, every treatment, every sign. People will see this and it well may be that… it is different with all.
It will in fact be written as drama , a soap drama.
It can not be done properly in a fictional written for drama soap..
rape, cancer is very different to write than bipolars..
the messed up writing of bipolar Sharon Y&R is what you will get.
I see cancer stories being written terribly.
Y&R cancer story was about Erectile Disfunction.
I seen transplant stories very very far from factual.
I seen rape stories where after there was a wedding.
I have Sharon/Y&R bipolar story being written with DNA changing crimes, down houses, etc written for soap drama.
Bipolarism is not for soap opera drama.
Also-
It depends on the writers, how they would portray bipolarism.
(( and they horribly with bipolar Sharon.))
Biopolarism is very tough thing to deal with in a soap story real life bipolarism is not wholly understood.
Agnes Nixon may be able to pull it off, maybe, Jean and Shelly, no.
Have to agree su doesn’t make a habit of “bashing” people…except complainers when they come out in full force. On the other hand she is GH’s biggest cheerleader (to a fault sometimes in my estimation) who I can disagree with at times, but wears invisible Teflon armour when it comes to all the criticism she takes. I do admire her spirit.
I think that Bryan Craig is doing a fantastic job and would be interested in learning more about bipolar disorder if they do end up going that route.
While I think soaps can be a good forum to discuss different kinds of medical and mental disorders, I’m just not looking forward to the possibility of a bi-polar story. This last year with Tony/Fluke has been very dark and heavy, so I’m hoping for more traditional adventure/romance/family soap fare.
If the writers want to deal with Morgan’s acting out, would rather they explore Carly and Sonny’s parenting/non-parenting styles that may have helped get him where he is now…in nowhere land.
First, I have to say that I respect Maurice Benard to THE MAX for being so open and proactive about his condition. I have a condition of my own that I have to manage with medication, and “Sonny” spoke the truth when he said “Do you think I LIKE taking my medication?” That hit home. No one LIKES to have to take medication. Diabetics don’t like giving themselves insulin shots either. Anyone with a chronic condition has to MANAGE it in order to lead a productive and fulfilling life. That’s just the way it is. That said, I think delving into this story again (as we did with Sonny a number of years ago) is important to keep viewers educated.
A lot of people voice their concern he may not be the right fit to play Morgan…I think this is the perfect opportunity for the character to get diagnosed and treatment and change into a more mature man. I think they have a lot of potential with Morgan’s character, and I applaud GH and cast for keeping up with important issues of today.
I watched the special with Maurice on being bipolar and can only say Maurice you are a Hero by speaking out on such a personal subject, thank you.
I think Bryan does a wonderful job. I would love for this story to happen. I work in the mental health field and so many people do not understand this illness as well as many others. These stories need to be told in order to have understanding and hopefully assist with the stigma associated with this illness.
I thought Maurice Benard and Laura Wright were exceptional in their scenes on Friday’s episode. The storyline of a family struggling with mental illness could be very powerful and relatable. This story has so much potential to be what viewers expect from a great classic soap. Please do this story justice or don’t do it at all.
I do not mind a Corinthos family storyline that does not revolve around the mob. Having said that, I find it peculiar that the writers can focus on a sensitive subject like someone being bipolar and expect us to take it seriously and then totally make light of a legacy character like Heather who they made crazier than she ever originally was years ago. Where’s the serious focus on identifying why Heather turned out this way instead of simply brushing it under the rug? I have a hard time believing it was because of her accidental acid trip years ago which she certainly recovered from. Heather was devious thereafter, but not crazy. GH got some splainin’ to do!
Good call, Liam. Very conflicting and contradicting representation of a mentally ill person, such as Heather. I never thought about it until you mentioned it. You’re right….shameful how the entire premise was made into a big, fat Heather-joke !!
@Rose…..three cheers for su0000. ….could not have described su better myself. She is wonderfully resilient. You hear, su?? We love you.
Agree with you and Cee Cee on this one.
Okay, if its bi polar, its bi polar. But what if Morgan is just a goof? A loser? Dumb! Sometimes thats the answer. People want to find a legitimate excuse every time some one screws up. A label or a medical reason, if you will. How about Michael is just smarter than Morgan or at least makes better choices.
I am with you, Timmm..
I hope Morgan is just a really screwed up guy..
People can be really messed up and not be bipolar..
Morgan has had some very dark drama happen to him, his life has been messed up and now so is he..
no bipolar stuff needed ..
I think they’re playing out the bipolar story very well & , Bryan Craig is a fine good actor. Yes Morgan is messed up in the head but he’s going through life right now as an undiagnosed bipolar. Once he’s diagnosed & put on medication, his life will stabilize. As someone who’s diagnosed bipolar, I see so much of my life as to what I went through. I was messed up in the head before diagnosis which my parents thought was peer pressure & once I got put on the right medication, my life became stabilized. So to all of you people who throw out this bipolar-ism crap, try walking in the shoes of someone who lives with bipolar disorder.
LadyDi….how interesting and nostalgic….your post too…LOL.
General Hospital
‘General Hospital’s’ Josh Swickard Recalls Emotional Moment After His Final Scenes with Michael Easton, and Favorite ‘Chase’ Storyline
Josh Swickard (Harrison Chase, General Hospital) is the special guest on this week’s all-new episode of Soapy Hosted by Rebecca Budig and Greg Rikaart. The GH fan favorite and leading men opened up about his life pre and post GH, his marriage to actress and producer, Lauren Swickard, and some of his toughest and most memorable moments during his eight-plus years as officer Chase of the PCPD.
One of the most heartbreaking moments came when Josh had to say farewell to his on-screen brother Finn played by soap veteran, Michael Easton. It was back on the Thursday, June 27, 2024 episode of General Hospital.
In it, Chase drives Finn to a rehab facility and the two brothers share a heartfelt talk in the car. Finn thanks Chase for allowing him to say goodbye to his daughter, Violet (Jophielle Love). Chase promises to take good care of her. However, Chase warns Finn to not to take any shortcuts on his way to sobriety and to always think of Violet’s wellbeing. It is apparent, the brothers don’t want to say goodbye, but on the count of three, Finn leaves Chase’s car and walks through the door of the rehab facility, while Chase in tears beats the steering wheel before drives away.
Photo: ABC
MISSING HIS TV BROTHER
Josh spoke to the “Soapy” podcast hosts about it and recalled, “In our last scenes together, and it was like his last day. Michael was like, ‘It’s okay.’ And I was like, ‘No, it’s not.’ I was supposed to be crying in the scene, I think. I was like a little glassy-eyed, a little glazed over. And then they were like, “And cut.” I was like, “Great.” I just like went behind the car and wept.”
Speaking of his professional and personal relationship with Easton, Josh expressed, “Michael is an awesome guy. He’s such a sweetheart. We’ve done fan events together in New York and he would show me things, like, ‘This where I used to live …’ He’s like an older brother to me.”
Not only did Josh lose his on-screen brother, but he also lost his on-screen father, Gregory, played by Gregory Harrison, when he was killed-off the show after the character battled ALS. “I think I was more just mourning friends that play family on a show, but a show that goes year after year, year round, and so they become family,” explained Swickard. “So, that part’s been hard for me of just losing friends that while, yes, you get to see each other, you get to call each other, it’s different (when they leave).”
Photo: JPI
CHASE IN A COMA IS FAVORITE OF JOSH’S
When asked, what has been his favorite storyline during his run on GH thus far, Josh took it back to when Chase became became critically ill after being poisoned by a toxic from Peter August (Wes Ramsey) meant for Finn. Eventually, Finn had to rescue his brother with the antidote for the toxin. That story played out from April to June 2021.
Josh explained, “Where I was in a coma and I was seizing and coughing and I had no blocking for like four months! It was great! It was a storyline where I was about to die and I had to say goodbye to a lot of lovely people and it was so exhausting. You get in the car and you feel like you got hit by a train every day because your body doesn’t fully know what acting is, apparently. I remember multiple days being like, ‘Oh, this is why I signed up for this.'”
Swickard also answered if there were moments in the storyline if he felt Chase was not going to survive. The GH star answered, “There were moments that I wondered. However, I think they were pretty upfront with me. They were like, ‘This isn’t what’s going to happen.'”
Check out the full conversation with Josh on the ‘Soapy’ podcast via the comment section below.
Now let us know, what has been your favorite scenes of Josh as Chase on General Hospital during his run? Do you miss the relationship between Chase and his brother, Finn? Let us know via the comment section below.
This week, all-new episodes of General Hospital tease a long-held secret revealed, a surprise cellmate and a life on the line. On Monday August 24, ABC released their weekly promo entitled “Keep Brennan Busy,” raising eyebrows that this could the beginning of the exit of the character, after it was reported that Chris McKenna (Brennan) is leaving the soap come this fall.
In the spoilers video: First, Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn) is telling Willow (Katelyn MacMullen) that she has known the truth all along that she shot Drew (Cameron Mathison), even though she was her legal counsel and defender her during Willow’s trial of shooting the former congressman.
Willow is shocked, and her face shrinks up. What will she say in return? Will she just say, “yes” I did it and then blackmail Alexis to also keep her quiet, like she has been able to do to so many others?
Courtesy/ABC
DREW’S BACK TO HIS OLD SELF WITH A VENGEANCE
Next, Drew is suddenly on this renewed warpath to take down Sonny (Maurice Benard), but before he deals with that, he want to get the WSB Port Charles Bureau Chief out of the way. He informs his partner in crime Ava Jerome (Maura West) over drinks at the Metro Court his plan for Brennan. While Drew tells Ava his agenda, we cut to: a woman’s hands pouring a packet full of powder into a drink at the Metro Court pool area.
Drew gives Ava her assignment, “I need you to keep Brennan busy while I search his hotel room.” The question becomes, who is the woman who is drugging Brennan? Is this the first attempt at taking out the guy foreshadowing the future, or could this be the demise of Brennan?
YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU MIGHT SEE IN THE SLAMMER
At the end of the video, Curtis (Donnell Turner) is seen in his cell at Pentonville. He gets what appears to be his new cellmate, and utters, “You?” Is this when Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota) has manipulated someone from the inside to visit Curtis and begin a plan to get what he wants from Jordan (Tanisha Harper) and use her lover to do his dirty work? Stay tuned.
Take a look at the rest of the official spoilers for the week of August 24-28 below.
MONDAY, AUGUST 24
Valentin makes a pitch to Jason. Brennan confronts Willow. Josslyn has news for Hudson. Laura briefs Anna. Tracy issues a warning.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25
Jason encourages Carly. Obrecht wants answers. Anna is tempted. Ric jumps to conclusions. Lulu offers relationship advice.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26
Nina is enraged. Jordan makes her loyalties clear. Michael seeks Sonny’s advice. Tristan opens up about his past. Felicia stonewalls Brennan.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27
Gio and Emma overhear an argument. Drew vows revenge. Ava feels slighted. Justine gets a shock. Alexis makes threat.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28
Sonny makes a promise to Laura. Carly and Valentin make a decision. Anna offers support. Ava sets a trap. Drew is waylaid.
Check out the the latest GH promo, “Keep Brennan Busy” below.
Now let us know, do you think Drew’ plot against Brennan will be the untimely end of the WSB Port Charles Bureau Chief? How will Willow keep Alexis from opening her mouth about the fact that she shot Drew? Share your predictions and theories via the comment section below.
General Hospital
‘General Hospital’s’ Dominic Zamprogna Shares He Was ‘Happy to Hear’ of The Triangle Storyline Developing Between Dante/Elizabeth/Ric
General Hospital’s Dominic Zamprogna (Dante Falconeri) opened up about the burgeoning love triangle forming between his Port Charles alter-go, Elizabeth Webber (Rebecca Herbst) and Ric Lansing (Rick Hearst) after recently aired scenes, plus his hopes for the future of a Dante and Liz pairing, during his appearance on the Sunday, April 23 edition of the That’s Awesome podcast with Steve Burton (Jason Morgan) and Bradford Anderson (Spinelli).
On last week’s episodes of GH, Ric has made the decision that he wanted to propose to his ex-wife, only when he showed up at Elizabeth’s front door, he misread the scenario he walked in with Liz tending to Dante’s injured leg from the softball game. From there, the legal eagle’s jealous streak is reemerging which may cause him to act out and do something unforgivable, or will he take the high road? Stay tuned.
Speaking with Steve Burton and Bradford Anderson about where Elizabeth stands in the annals of the long-running soap, Zamprogna said, “She’s up there with Steve and Maurice (Maurice Benard) as one of the most legacy-filled people on the show.”
Courtesy/ABC
HOW DANTE AND ELIZABETH CAME ABOUT
Dominic jokes it’s a far cry for where Dante and Elizabeth previously, recalling, “We had some scenes together years ago and we were both laughing. Becky’s like, ‘Well, I guess we’re not going be paired up anytime soon.’ I remember we laughed immediately after they yelled ‘cut,”‘and said to each other, ‘Well, so much for that!'”
Fast-forward to early 2025 and as Zamprogna remembered it, “Elizabeth Korte (co-head writer, GH) came up to me at the General Hospital Christmas party, and I think it was a year and a half ago and she said, ‘We’re going to have you in scenes with Elizabeth,’ My internal monologue is going, ‘I’m not with Lulu (Alexa Havins) anymore and Sam’s (Kelly Monaco) gone, so maybe they want to see if this works.’ I didn’t want to get scenes with Becky and try to find the chemistry. I just wanted to play whatever honestly was written and came across for both of us and hope it was what people liked, and I don’t know if it is … or not.”
Knowing how beloved Elizabeth is to the GH faithfuls, Zamprogna added, “She got a big fan base with Ric … and a big fan base with with Jason … and you know, you’re going to piss somebody off. But, didn’t Ric drug Elizabeth and put Carly in a panic room?”
Photo: ABC
DANTE AND ELIZABETH PAIRING COULD STIR UP STORY FOR OTHERS IN PORT CHARLES
In closing, Dominic felt that the wide-reaching tentacles of a Dante and Elizabeth relationship is something he is 100% down for. “The triangle thing; I was happy to hear it was with Ric and her, because I felt it’s important to have her the top of it as opposed to Dante, Lulu and Elizabeth.”
Zamprogna added, “When you get into relationships on a soap, things seem to fizzle out a little bit, The buildup is what’s the fun part, and the getting to know each other, and the people who are affected by this coming together. When with this case it’s going to affect: Ric, Sonny, Lulu. There’s so much more story here. To me, it’s going to be a fun story to play.”
You can check out Dominic’s visit to That’s Awesome with Steve and Bradford below.
Now weigh-in: Are you rooting for Dante and Liz, or Dante and Ric at this juncture of the story, or neither guy for Elizabeth? Let us know your thoughts and picks via the comment section.
Y&R’s Victoria and Kyle’s Love Affair to Kick-Off; Amelia Heinle Says EP Sally McDonald Shared Why; ‘You’ve Got Chemistry’ with Michael Mealor
Dolly Parton Remembered: Y&R Alum Alyvia Alyn Lind Shares Heartfelt Tribute to the Legendary Singer and Songwriter
‘General Hospital’s’ Josh Swickard Recalls Emotional Moment After His Final Scenes with Michael Easton, and Favorite ‘Chase’ Storyline
Brytni Sarpy Joins the Cast of ‘Days of Our Lives’
‘The Bold and the Beautiful’s’ Jacqueline MacInnes Wood Delivers the ‘Power Performance of the Week’
‘Veronica & Julian’ Feature Starring ‘Days of Our Lives’ Alums Nadia Bjorlin and Kyler Pettis Releases Key Art and More (Exclusive)
John Oliver Recaps His ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘General Hospital’ Soap Opera Experience on ‘Last Week Tonight’
‘General Hospital’ Alum Bryan Craig Cast in ‘The Weapon’
Hayden Panettiere, ‘Guiding Light’ and ‘Nashville’ Alum, Dead at 36
GH and OLTL Alum Patrick J. Gibbons Reveals the Story Behind Writing Trina’s Song on ‘General Hospital’ (Exclusive)
Dolly Parton Remembered: Y&R Alum Alyvia Alyn Lind Shares Heartfelt Tribute to the Legendary Singer and Songwriter
‘General Hospital’s’ Josh Swickard Recalls Emotional Moment After His Final Scenes with Michael Easton, and Favorite ‘Chase’ Storyline
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Is This the End for Brennan?
‘Guiding Light’s’ Grant Aleksander Shares Heartfelt Remembrance of TV Daughter, Hayden Panettiere On What Would Have Been Her 37th Birthday
‘General Hospital’ Alum Chad Duell Admits That He Didn’t Expect the Role of Michael Corinthos to be Recast, and Would Consider Working on Another Soap (Exclusive)
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General Hospital5 days agoGH and OLTL Alum Patrick J. Gibbons Reveals the Story Behind Writing Trina’s Song on ‘General Hospital’ (Exclusive)
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