General Hospital
Rebecca Budig Chats On Her Departure From GH, Michael Easton, And Her Emotional Final Scenes!
Photo Credit: JPI Stuidios
One of daytime’s most popular actresses, Rebecca Budig, has left the building and General Hospital. Fans of Budig’s were shocked and saddened to learn the news that she had been let go by the ABC daytime drama series, just when it seemed like her storyline with Michael Easton (Finn) was becoming more and more intriguing, while making “Fayden” a new favorite on-screen duo.
Rebecca, who became soap-famous with her roles as Greenlee Smythe on All My Children and Michelle Bauer on Guiding Light, returned to the soaps in 2015 in the newly created role of Hayden Barnes on GH. Through her time in Port Charles, viewers and Budig would learn more about her back-story as it was filled in by the writers.
On emotional episodes over the past few weeks, Hayden’s ex returned to Port Charles attempting to extort money from her, while holding a horrible secret over her head.
Last Friday, Hayden walked out on her relationship with Finn just as they were set to wed. Those moments signaled Budig’s exit from the show. However, in true soap opera fashion, the door has been left open for the character to return, but will she?
On-Air On-Soaps sat down with Rebecca following Michael Easton and Roger Howarth’s (Franco) General Hospital Fan Club Weekend gathering to get her thoughts on her departure. Budig had made a very special appearance, which had the fans in attendance all abuzz and overjoyed. Here’s what Rebecca shared in our candid conversation.
You delivered some powerhouse performances in your final weeks on General Hospital. The episode in which Hayden learned her ex-husband is out of jail and wanting payback was riveting. How was that to play?
Courtesy/IMDB
REBECCA: I had 103 pages that day in the script. Matt Corboy was the actor I was working with who played Jared, Hayden’s (aka Rachel Berlin) ex-husband. Matt is a phenomenal actor, and had never done daytime soaps before. I went to his dressing room, and he said, “I have 57 pages to learn!” I said, “I have 103! So, let’s work on this.” (Laughs) He is like, “Oh, my God! How am I going to do this?” I replied, “We are going to run the lines, and we are going to know them, and then we are going to go out on set and do them! It will be awesome!” He was finally like, “O.K!” (Laughs) We got through it, and he was great.
When you saw in the script that Hayden had hit a little girl while driving, were you shocked?
REBECCA: Yeah, at first. However, I totally believe it was something she could have done. It was painful to think that she did that. So, I connected with it, and it resonated with me. Thank God! It was heartbreaking.
It was great to see Hayden crumble, because Hayden doesn’t usually allow herself to go there. For the audience, it was nice to get to see you have the opportunity to show your acting chops, and play deep, emotional despair. Viewers don’t often get to see you do that kind of work with the characters you have played on daytime.
Courtesy/ABC
REBECCA: With Hayden there just wasn’t a lot written like that, and it was not the fault of the writers. It was just I came on during the writer change, and so it’s been kind of difficult. In the story, she finds out she ruined this kid’s life. Heavy stuff.
Those were some meaty scenes, as well as your final scenes with Michael Easton.
REBECCA: Listen, everything they wrote after I found out I was leaving was amazing. Not that it wasn’t before … but I actually loved what they wrote too, for Finn and Hayden. Maybe I loved that, because it was true for me. I was terrified to have a baby in my real life. I had waited so long until I was older to have a kid, and it’s life-changing. I really loved that in the relationship between Finn and Hayden, because to me it was very honest. I loved that they were characters that were a bit awkward and weird, because people are like that. In soaps, it’s rare that they write something like that, and so I really love that they wrote our relationship in that way.
Photo Credit: JPI Studios
You and Michael Easton had developed a special on-screen relationship, and had worked to get it to a place that left the audience rooting for Hayden and Finn as a couple and wanting more. Many fans feel that they invested in the love story only to have it abruptly yanked from them with Hayden’s exit. When the news broke you were leaving the show, you received this outpouring of support on social media. There was this outcry to “Bring Rebecca back.” When you saw that, how did it make you feel?
REBECCA: When I saw that, all I felt was very humbled by it, and incredibly flattered. It felt really nice that people cared so much about me as an actress. There are no words to really describe it. For a longtime, I really didn’t know how people felt. For a longtime I don’t think people really bought Hayden. They didn’t really love her, and I get it. I was struggling with it too, by the way. We were all struggling with it. We were all going, “Who is she? What is she doing here? (Laughs) Why is she on the show?” (Laughs) Even for me, it was hard to find a hook into this character. Slowly, I found a hook for her, especially with those scenes they wrote when I was leaving. I really started to find a hook in her, and so it was the best feeling in the world to feel like people cared, and that they loved us, and it was so nice. The message that Michael Easton wrote and posted on his Facebook page after learning the news of my exit was just beyond. It was almost like a love letter. It was the sweetest thing I think anyone has ever written about me, ever in my life.
When all was said and done, how was it working with Michael Easton?
Photo Credit: JPI Studios
REBECCA: Besides, him being the ugliest and most difficult actor to work with? (Laughs) When I found out I was leaving from Frank Valentini (EP, General Hospital), I didn’t want to tell anybody at first, because I just wanted to go to work and not have to worry about anyone. Then I said, “I am going to tell Michael.” He is like my dance partner. I went down to the dressing room and told him. Michael was very surprised to hear my news. He took me to lunch, and bought me a drink … or two (laughs). Michael Easton has changed my life. Our friendship has inspired me to do things in my life, and he is a really great guy. You don’t come around people like that very often.
Would you say working with Jane Elliot was another highlight of your time on GH, and the relationship that developed between Tracy and Hayden?
REBECCA: I love Jane, and I just saw her. She has been nothing but supportive after finding out I was exiting the show.
Photo Credit: JPI Studios
There were rumors popping up during General Hospital Fan Club Weekend that you are heading over to Days of our Lives. What was your response to that with the fans?
REBECCA: I had fans coming up to me going, “I know you can’t say anything, but ….” I replied, “I swear on my daughter, and that is my life. I am not going to DAYS.” No one has called me.
What did you think of the writing of the final scenes between Finn and Hayden?
REBECCA: Kate Hall wrote those final scenes between Michael Easton and me, and I have ties to her, because her dad, Peter Simon, played my father on Guiding Light. I just think Kate is really good and really talented. Those final scenes were really real. I texted Kate and I said, “Did you write those scenes? She said, “Yeah”, and I said, “I knew you did.” She is such a good writer.
Photo Credit: JPI Studios
We all hope lightning in a bottle strikes twice for us in our lives. With your leading men on the soaps on All My Children, did you ever imagine it could happen again for you in your daytime career?
REBECCA: It was a great time in my life working on All My Children. I never thought I would connect with another actor like I did with Michael, like I did with Josh Duhamel (Ex-Leo, AMC), or Cameron Mathison (Ryan, AMC). It’s very rare when this kind of magic happens, and it’s a bummer when it ends.
So, what did you think of the final scenes between Rebecca Budig and Michael Easton as Hayden and Finn? What are your thoughts on Hayden leaving the canvas and Budig being written-off? W0uld you like to see Rebecca return to the GH canvas sooner than later? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Such heartfelt, gracious words for her onscreen “dance partner”, co-stars, fans, and the show. Rebecca added talent and class to GH. Will miss her. Looking forward to seeing what’s next for her.
Thank you, Michael.
I agree. Rebecca is definitely a class act!
Rebecca is a class act exactly in the way that Michael is. I truly hope that Frank Valentini is going to right this wrong and is already planning on re-hiring Rebecca. It is completely illogical that GH would ignore the loyal viewers’ pleas to bring Rebecca back, as well as the thousands of names on a petition for her. I am so hoping this is not the end of Fayden.
She was awsome, I am really going to miss her. Wish she wasnt going off.
Not a big fan of Hayden but why dump her and bring in a newbie
My thoughts exactly. And, I note that she has chosen her words very carefully about leaving. Hmmmml.
I would guess because Rebecca’s salary was the issue, nothing to do with actual story.
She had a four year contract. She was in year one.
The actors took a pile of c**p and turned it into gold, which is business as usual on GH. As much as I wanted to invest in this “story”, it was 100% contrived and inorganic. When Hayden said, “Not a day has gone by that I haven’t thought about what I did to that girl”, all I could think was, “except for all the days that you’ve ever been on screen and haven’t thought about it”. File this one under “wasted opportunity”, as the real story here should have been about the family tie with Liz. I just don’t understand what this writing staff doesn’t get about letting a story play out organically and in a way in which the fans would so obviously wish to see. Sadly, this character was poorly drawn from the start; brought on without a through-line, tossed about willy-nilly and ultimately squandered. The same can be said of Valentin, Nina, Ava and others, all portrayed by heavy hitter actors who have to overcome sloppy story telling to make their mark. It’s to their credit that they manage to do so. GH has the best cast on daytime and that’s what keeps me watching as I tolerate the insult to my intelligence and sense of aesthetics that is the writing. Long live GH!
Well said, Mr. Media and I couldn’t agree more. Frank Valentini had said that “Hayden’s story had come to a natural end”? With Hayden’s tie to Elizabeth and the Webbers, as well as the future baby with Finn, her story on GH was just beginning. There was nothing “natural” about her end.
@Mister Media….Couldn’t agree with UUUUUUUUUUUU more.
Sophomoric writing at best & that’s on a good day!!! These 2 head
writers R by far the Worst of the lot…It must be quite disheartening
for some of the BEST ACTORS in daytime television to realize..this
is as good as their going to get.. Then again everyone needs to put
food on the table.
It’s very rare when two actors have as much chemistry as Rebecca Budig and Michael Easton have both on and off of the screen. I think GH really made a big mistake letting Rebecca Budig go
Rebecca delivered an emmy worthy performance with those final scenes, as did Michael. We fans are beyond unhappy that this has happened. Thanks Mr. Fairman for giving her the press we fans need to bolster our efforts to get her back to GH. Nothing would make a million fans happier then to see #Fayden back together.
I agree with wanting Rebecca back! However, I felt the final scenes did nothing for giving fans closure. I honestly had no idea Rebecca was leaving. So, as I viewed the scenes, I was expecting that Finn was eventually going to find Hayden. I didn’t take their disagreement and Hayden leaving with a “let me know when you figure it out” as the end of their story. So disappointed in this decision by GH!
Since I did now that Aug 11 was her last airdate, I felt she delivered a powerful exit performance. I agree, this s/l was woefully thrown together & completely out of character for Hayden, Finn & also Curtis. It was a shoddy exit arc which I feel was slapped together to provide her exit. There was definitely no closure. Many fans r constantly tweeting our displeasure at her firing. She is expected on screen 1 more time, not sure when though. Fingers crossed that she and baby Finn will be back to PC.
Forgot to mention what undeniable chemistry Rebecca and Michael have. It shows in every scene they are in. We love you Rebecca. #Fayden Army will not stop
Finn and Hayden such naturals what a wonderful touch to their relationship a pregnancy II was crushed about the exit of Rebecca (Hayden). I heard a rumor that Rebecca, could be returning that would be so exciting, some rumors some rumors come true. How exciting that would be.
My writing on the subject – WHY I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE LOVE STORY OF HAYDEN AND FINN:
who do we need to knock some sense into and bring back Rebecca? i know its something they are going to want to do, lets just hope Rebecca isn’t doing dool or Yr, BB, goodness grief this was one stupid move by Gh, the other one being bringing back Steve Burton and not Christopher Tyler.
Aria, please call the GH Comment Line (323) 671-4583. It’s not too late to fight for Rebecca’s return. I also agree about Tyler. I am very sad that GH would not give in to his contract demands, causing him to accept an offer at DOOL.
Excellent question aria raised.Letting Rebecca go was a huge mistake and disappointment. So much lost potential with a storyline that could include her growing closer to Liz. Further development of her relationship with Finn. All that’s been trashed to bring in Steve Burton and now a female actress newbie. No thanks, GH, I have no interest in either of those two.
I think the writers need a kick. They have thrown away a great opportunity to top the ratings. It could of come close to Luke and Laura. Now no one will top that memory. But, it would of come really close. The ratings, the fans would of watched country wide!!!! Dumb dumb dumb writers!!!!
“…I think the writers need a kick. ”
I copied that they need a bitch slap. just saying….
when the focus is so much Corinthos’ ….. dag! it’s gotten to the point that I am sick of seeing “Sonny ” hogging all the screen time. SO OVER HIM
Michael Easton is no where near the actor Tony Geary was!
@Timmm…BIBLE ‼️‼️‼️
I totally understand what you’re saying however, no one can be an equal to Luke and Laura. Duke and Anna, Robert and Anna and Frisco and Felicia are close but definitely not equal.
That’s true, Connie, but your aforementioned supercouples still rate far superior to the GH pairings of convenience to which we are currently subjected!
As a (former) viewer I as well never found that “hook” with Hayden but I love the actress. I don’t think Hayden was ever needed. I’m hoping that one day RB can return but as someone else. Emily, Sarah Webber, someone who is already connected to the history of the show.
Agreed
Rebecca is such an amazing actor and the chemistry between her and Michael was magical. It is hard for some of us to grasp that there are people on the canvas that do not bring much to the table while Rebecca and Michael keep us interested, intrigued and invested in the storyline. The best thing ABC could do is get through the new stuff and then let “Finn” do a search for “Hayden” and his baby and bring them home. Fingers crossed!
General Hospital (Frank, Nathan, writers, etc) made the BIGGEST mistake in letting Rebecca go. They had a goldmine of an actress and HUGE potential with her character, Hayden. It’s too bad they could not pull themselves away form the fixation on Sonny, et al, to really do justice to Rebecca’s character.
The scenes the writers gave Hayden & Finn in the last few weeks is what they should have been writing all along. In fact, it is those kind of scenes, the emotional investment, the story pacing – that moves things along – that is sorely missing from GH right now and is a significant factor in its poor ratings. I wish the ABC network and TPTB on GH would take a look at the feedback and fanfare that “Fayden” have received in the past month or so and realize they need to retool and refocus on the relationships and characters in this show. Give it some depth!
They also need to bring Rebecca back to GH. She was an outstanding screen partner for Michael Easton (one of his best in his career) and they have just thrown it away. There is also so much story to tell with Hayden’s familial connection to Elizabeth and the entire Weber family. I pray that Frank, Nathan, the GH writers and ABC can rectify this HUGE error in judgement before it’s too late.
I think they all know we, the majority of the fans, are not happy with Rebecca Budig’s exit from the show. So how do I feel as a fan??? ANGRY!
Since the door has been left open for a Hayden return, I hope it happens soon.
u’m very disappointed the Rebecca was let go….
shame on RC or whomever..
Hopefully, TPTB will bring back Hayden !!! There is so much more of her story to be told and Budig is an amazing actress !!! Thrilled that Ms Jones (Parker) is back !! Can’t wait for her and Kristina’s story to unfold. !!!!!!!!
Love her and her role. The writing team needs to bring her back. Who really cares about Payton and sonnys daughter. Can’t even remember her name.
Thanks for this interview Michael. What a great actress and I was very sad that GH let her go. I would love if GH would bring her back. I didn’t like Hayden at first but she really grew on me. I loved the chemistry of Rebecca and Michael had on screen. I hope to see her soon on my screen and would love her to return on GH.
Very upset that Hayden is leaving just when she got a good SL – becoming friends with her sister, romantically involved with Finn and starting a family, etc. Really wanted Curtis’s wedding gift be to “take care of Jared”! Hopefully, she comes to her senses and returns to Finn (ie TPTB wake up and bring her back!) soon.
If it’s a money thing would rather Steve Burton not come back, Jordan leave, Stella leave, Franco not come back, Nathan move to Portland and stay there with Maxie, etc.
I enjoyed this actress and her portrayal of Hayden. I will definitely miss her presence on the show.
SHE, doesn’t sound like she’s “leaving”.
perhaps, after all… because she was hired by Frank Valentini… this is the best way to assuage the audience and or production… that a little stint of a vacation will lessen the blow that she was even given a 4 year contract… while so many others are FIGHTING for 1 year contract.
I am a little surprised that all the blow back of her firing .. whilst all the time prior, all the backlash of her being a prop… and YES I seriously will still go their… that she was given every opportunity to blend in and meld with the whole cast. and YET even SOD printed that the pairing of Hayden and Finn were the isolated pairing that just couldn’t find a way to be a part of the cast, as it were.
like I have with Alexis… I will with Hayden…. given the lesser of ??? two evils… I will accept and be mindful of their characters… that it’s at least a distraction from : get this , the dullard Corinthos’. so be it… I do not buy FINN and Hayden… but will tolerate them at the expense of less Carly and Sonny . less Jason and Sam; less Michael and Nelle; less Finn and Franco.
this was all of her in a nutshell… : nicely done
“…It was great to see Hayden crumble, because Hayden doesn’t usually allow herself to go there. For the audience, it was nice to get to see you have the opportunity to show your acting chops, and play deep, emotional despair. Viewers don’t often get to see you do that kind of work with the characters you have played on daytime. ”
I will say when she did not show up for her wedding… my heart started racing… as Liz raced up the stairs. and returned with her engagement ring. she’s gone. well done by the production team.
I will be clear… it’s more for just her character , Hayden… come back with the baby… and be a part of Liz life. and Curtis; hopefully, by then… Hamilton Finn will have moved on. he’s just not their.
Hope so too. Not a fan of this pairing
The actress playing Nina could go. I am sure she is taking up a lot of salary and there is not need or story for her. More viewers favor Hayden/Finn over Nina/Valentin. If it is a salary thing, then get rid of non star actors, Nelle, Jordan, Olivia, the list could go on.
From your lips, amcknots! I detest Nina, and she doesn’t fit in anywhere.
She has no chemistry with the wonderfully mysterious Valentin but guess who does?
Yes, Anna! Anna and Valentin could be GH’s next supercouple–why waste this intensely gifted actor on that drip Nina?
And it’s sad that Michael Eastman finally finds an actress with whom he enjoys a great chemistry and they get rid of her. It makes no sense.
Stafford is a big friend of Franks she is not leaving I hate the show so I gave up soaps are a business and when you start making decisions based on personal emotions you lose
You are right, K/Kay.
Absolutely, k/kay! That’s the sad truth as to why GH is failing big time…this soap has been a refuge for FOF’s for far too long…..it’s not about whom is best for the show or the storylines, but maintaining the spotlight for those favored chosen few of his who have been granted a prime place on the canvas whether their characters warrant such privileges…or NOT!
She absolutely must come back. Talent like hers is rare. Chemistry like she has with Michael Easton is extremely rare. Believing GH is too savvy to let that go for good.
Have always liked Ms. Budig and credit to her for playing this role with grace, talent, and class. To be honest, I just never cared for Hayden and her story. Hayden is one of the many (of late) characters that have landed in Port Charles with tenuous/incredible ties to legacy families and characters and histories. And I understand well that is part of soaps, I would rather see things happen with the core group I have come to know and love through decades. It just seems it takes so long for these new characters to connect or find their place anymore. Isn’t there a long-term bible that charts the way? And if there is, why isn’t it sacred?
After being in a corporaterate office for most of my career, I have foundd it rare that people are supportive of each other. It seems very competitive to “climb the ladder.” I was told years ago that you never step on anyone to move up. You let your work speak for itselff and you let your kindness and being a team player shine through.
This interview reminded me of those words. It seems Rebecca is an epic team player. I love that she has/had such great relationshipsips with Josh, Cameron, Jane and Michael. I would love to see Rebecca come to DOOL as a Horton (Sarah?) or go to B&B as a new love interest for Ridge.
The best of luck to Rebecca and cheers to a successful future.
I am a LONG-TIME fan of Rebecca’s and know just how talented an actress she is. I too think it’s GH’s loss for getting rid of her character. With that said, I actually would LOVE to see her land a prime time role or maybe another movie role! As much as I love soaps and loved watching her on the soaps, I think Rebecca deserves and has earned the chance to be on a prime time series. She is just as talented and in some cases is more so than any of the actresses in prime time right now. For the life of me, I don’t understand why it hasn’t happened already. I wish her all the best, wherever she ends up, but I sure hope to hell that someone in prime time casting has the good sense to snap her up! Hello, Shonda Rhimes….??
I hate how they wrote Hayden out. Hayden and Finn are one of the very few good couples who respect each other. Rebecca needs to come back sooner, Not later!!!
Pleas find and bring her back for Fin
Hayden will be miss! Love the character started off shaky but she played the role well. Her work with Easton was well written. I do believe she will be back! #NoDays
I am going to miss her. She is a staple to Daytime! Why they decided to do this is beyond my understanding. She is my Michelle, My Greenlee, Now my Hayden. General Hospital has made a big mistake.
I’ve already told everyone how pissed i am over this so I don’t mind saying it again. This is a stupid move and GH better wake up and see what they did to a story that was working with alot of people. Having Hayden around meant we got to see alot of Elizabeth who is another favorite of mine. We could have had Jeff Webber back. Hayden was the kind of character that could have had so many ties to Port Charles just for being there. I know there’s more to this than what anyone’s saying.
Bring Hayden back ASAP
This will probably seem like I’m writing a book here, but I’ve been wanting a way to express how I, and so many fans of Rebecca Budig feel, so here it is.
Rebecca’s performance in her latest story has been top notch! I am just blown away by her talent! She has been acting her heart out, and I think it’s a huge mistake she was let go! While I do sometimes get frustrated with this story, and feel it was out of character for Hayden to do some of the things she has done, after reading this interview, I now have a better understanding why Rebecca was drawn to this story about having a baby, and all the fears that go with it, and how she believed it was possible for Hayden to make the mistakes she’s made in her past. I only wish Hayden, could have, had the recent part of her story, (where she’s blackmailed by Jared for accidentally hitting that little girl), a little sooner. That would have been a better way to introduce it, instead of waiting until her exit, (that shouldn’t even be happening).
I have to admit the story itself, is very good, on the edge of your seat material, and, everyone involved has been doing an incredible job, especially, Michael and Rebecca. They were given some really great dialogue, and they ran with it perfectly! Their last scene together, is what really pulled me in. They were so on point with their reactions, their anger, sadness, everything! They have amazing chemistry with each other, and obviously a very special bond as friends, and it shows so much in their work! If we are lucky enough to get Rebecca back, I truly hope Fayden’s love story will continue. I love several soap couples on GH right now, but Fayden touches my heart the most. I want to see them rise above all of this sorrow about Hayden’s past. I want them to be able to open up to each other as they usually do, and work together to rebuild their relationship. I don’t like seeing Hayden so insecure about Reiko. Hayden is not the same person she was in the past, and she’s much stronger than that now. There has been so much character growth and I don’t want that completely ruined. I want Finn and Hayden to have the chance to raise their baby together, and eventually get married when the time is right. I fully understand soap couples need to have some kind of conflict, and truth be told that doesn’t bother me, because it would be boring if everything was sunshine and roses. What I don’t understand is why Finn and Hayden has never really had the chance to really explore their relationship. They’ve had everything thrown at them, and now it has to end? I’m sorry but most of us don’t understand or accept this, and trust me, there are a lot of us! LOL. I believe Fayden’s story isn’t and shouldn’t be over!
I also want to see Curtis and Hayden continue to be best friends. I love their friendship! I want Liz and Hayden to continue to bond as sisters. They were starting to get closer with each other, and it was just ripped away! GH needs to bring in their father, Jeff Webber, something that should’ve been done early on. Jeff and Hayden needed to have a chance to get to know each other, and Liz needs more family in her life as well. This would have been a great way to further tie Hayden into her sister’s life. There is just so much story left to tell for Hayden and it’s not too late to make all of this happen.
Now I agree, in the beginning it was hard for Hayden to fit in, but so much has changed since then. her character has evolved beautifully, and we’ve all seen this sensitive, vulnerable side of Hayden that intrigues us, and leaves us wanting more, yet she’s still savvy, and has that edge to her that I’ve always loved! Rebecca has really brought her character to life and we love both Hayden, and Rebecca. We will continue to fight to get her back on GH, and trust me, there are so many of us that want her back! I think all of the petitions and outcries of thousands of fans, say it all…Rebecca is an outstanding actress, and worth the fight!
Michael, Once again I get the impression you dislike Becky Herbst and or her character Elizabeth. You do an exit interview and fail to ask Rebecca about what went down at GH regarding making Hayden & Elizabeth sisters.
We learned they were related 1 year ago yet GH never brought back Jeff Webber to deal with this. We never even learned if he was even told. Then we never saw Elizabeth & Hayden growing close until right before she exits. Instead of playing the beat GH went from 0 to 60 so their sudden closeness rang hollow.. I would have loved to hear her thoughts on this gigantic mistake. On GH we were subjected ad nauseum to mind-numbing talk about Morgan’s death while this story & others were squandered
Once again GH makes a bad decision. Instead of keeping Hayden they keep the God awful unneeded Nelle, Nina, and Amy. They have zero ties to GH & should’ve been gone long ago.
Whilst I am personally pleased to see the character of Hayden exiting the GH canvas, your point about “awful, unneeded” other ones is spot-on. That’s been the major problem with this soap for the past few years…too many newbies and nonsensical players that have nothing to do with much of anyone or anything that came before…..it’s gotten to the extreme of the ridiculous with all the useless people that are populating Port Charles! Both Nina and Amy definitely lead that list, along with a whole slew of filler cast mates who have no earthy reason for being there….the showrunners just keep introducing new faces in hopes a few will stick, perhaps with some revisionist histories added to them at a later date for good measure as a means to try and justify their existence, but it really never works. Hayden is a prime example of this practice…her fate was sealed with many viewers long before they finally let her go, because RB was simply another in a long line of big name soap gets that the producers desired and they moved heaven and earth to attempt to carve a niche in the canvas for her, yet once again, failed miserably with their force-feeding efforts. A real housecleaning is sorely due for this show, although thus far, it would seem that TPTB still have no idea who should be going, who should stay and why….they are clueless!
As a long time viewer, I love General Hospital!!! It’s the best! The show has turned many directions over the years, some great, others not. I have to say releasing Rebecca ( Hayden) was not a great move. We are finally getting a real and excellently acted storyline and it is dropped. ☹️ I just don’t get how you couldn’t see an incredible path for her and Fin and her and Elizabeth, and on and on. Please bring Rebecca back. It’s a waste if you don’t. Bring back #Hayden.
I haven’t watched the show in a week plus. I was never really invested in Rachel/Hayden or Rebecca as an actress, so I’m not sure what happened during her exit. I tuned in a little yesterday while home, and I heard that she left her engagement ring behind and is nowhere to be found. What a stupid exit storyline-very poorly written. Now, more “newbies” are arriving in Port Charles. Why? It seems as though Rebecca was honest in her interview and had the same frustrations with the character as some of the viewers did.
Seems like a nice lady. I preferred she be with Nicholas. Plus, Spencer bonded with Hayden since his mom was never in his life. What I see here is a classic story brewing where she will be off for a bit, Finn will dedicate his life finding her, Hayden will return next year with little Finny! Everyone is happy.
I think it’s really a terrible thing that they wrote her off GH. I don’t care who they needed the money to bring on ~ if that’s the real reason. RB is a very strong actress and her character and ME’s character were just hitting their stride; there was so much more story to tell; that i wanted to see explored. it all feels so abrupt, so I’m not a happy camper about this. On the bright side, however, I am glad they left the door open for her return. I hope that happens sooner rather than later.
I think they should bring Rebecca Budig back as Hayden!! Her story line was finally growing and everyone was connecting with her. I loved Hayden/Finn!!! They are having a baby!! No way can that storyline just disappear!! The fans are too invested into this couple’s life now, the story cannot end like this. Even Elizabeth and Hayden are acting like sisters now so that has a storyline also!! Please bring Hayden back!!! Rebecca Budig is a great actress, don’t lose her!!
bring her back she is a good actress while others on the show take off every other month
Hayden was not killed-off , so great hopes for her, and baby, return…
Please bring her back!!!! I really wanted to see her and Finn’s journey continue. Loved them together.
I. hope you she is comes back to to want any. gh. and I.finn before. the baby. is. bborn
I would love for Rebecca Budig to come back!!! She is one of my all time favorites. I was and still am so sad that they let her go. I keep hoping that the powers that be listen to the fans and bring back “Hayden”
they need to bring back hayden they wrote amazing story for her finn and roxy its a huge injustice to loyal viewers that she has been wrote off bring her back
Now that this year’s 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Nominations have been announced, several of the acting nominees will share their reactions and more to learning they are going for gold when the ceremony rolls around on October 30.
However, tonight on Tuesday July 14 beginning at 8pm ET/5pm PT, Michael Fairman once again host his 12th annual Daytime Emmy Nominations special live on You Tube’s Michael Fairman Channel.
Scheduled to appear thus far are: Beyond the Gates stars, Lead Actress nominee: Karla Mosley (Dani), Supporting Actress nominee: Trisha Mann-Grant (Leslie), and Supporting Actor nominees: Mike Manning (Smitty) and Timon Kyle Durrett (Bill).
From The Young and the Restless: Lead Actress nominee Michelle Stafford (Phyllis), Lead Actor nominee Christian LeBlanc (Michael), Supporting Actress nominee Camryn Grimes (Mariah) and Supporting Actor nominee Sean Dominic (Nate).
In addition look for General Hospital’s Supporting Actress nominee Amanda Setton (Brook Lynn), from Days of Our Lives, Outstanding Guest Performer nominee, Christopher Sean (Paul) and from The Bold and the Beautiful Lead Actor nominee Scott Clifton (Liam) and Supporting Actor nominee Lawrence Saint-Victor (Carter) plus more featured guests.
So, what did you think of this year’s Emmy nominations for Beyond the Gates, General Hospital, Days of Our Lives, The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless?
Be with us in the live chat with your questions and comments on this year’s nominations and for our special guests.
For upcoming celebrity features, livestreams, special event coverage and more, make sure to “subscribe” to the Michael Fairman Channel.
So, looking forward to tonight’s special show with the nominees? Let us know via the comment section below and if you can’t be with us live, if you have any questions you want posed to our special guests and we just might ask during the broadcast.
Beyond the Gates
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 15
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) today announced the full list of nominees for the upcoming 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, and it was CBS daytime’s The Young and the Restless and broadcast television newest soap opera, Beyond the Gates that racked up the most nominations with 18 and 15, respectively.
General Hospital was next with 13 overall nominations, followed by Days of our Lives with 8 and The Bold and the Beautiful with 7 nods. The full reveal on Tuesday, follows the announcement of several major categories including Lead Actor and Actress on Monday via Extra and Entertainment Tonight and The View today revealing Daytime Drama Series and more.
The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmys ceremony are set to take place on Friday, October 30 at the historic Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California. The ceremony is currently planned to stream via watch.theemmys.tv and its associated apps. For the second year in a row, both the main Emmys and the Creative Arts will be presented together in one night.
Photo: CBS
In a statement, Adam Sharp, President and CEO of NATAS expressed, “We’re proud to honor the extraordinary talent and creative teams whose work continues to define and elevate daytime television, As the Daytime landscape evolves and new forms of storytelling emerge, we remain committed to recognizing the innovation happening across the industry.”
“Each year, the Daytime Emmy Awards celebrate the creativity, passion, and dedication that drive this vibrant community of storytellers,” said Rachel Schwartz, Head of the Daytime Emmy Awards. “Congratulations to this year’s nominees, whose work continues to entertain, inspire and connect with audiences every day. We look forward to celebrating their remarkable achievements in Hollywood this October.”
The Daytime Emmy Awards have recognized outstanding achievement in television programming and crafts since 1974, honoring work in a variety of genres, including daytime dramas, talk series, entertainment news, culinary, adventure, instructional and legal/courtroom programming. This year’s Lifetime Achievement Honoree, Gold & Silver Circle Inductees, and ceremony host will be announced at a later date.
Now below, check out the nominees in the daytime drama, talk show, entertainment news series and creative arts categories. Congratulations to all!
Photo: JPI
Outstanding Daytime Drama Series
Beyond the Gates
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series
Stacy Haiduk (as Kristen DiMera), Days of Our Lives
Karla Mosley (as Dani Dupree), Beyond the Gates
Michelle Stafford (as Phyllis Summers), The Young and the Restless
Heather Tom (as Katie Logan), The Bold and the Beautiful
Tamara Tunie (as Anita Williams Dupree), Beyond the Gates
Photo: ABC
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Daytime Drama Series
Eric Braeden (as Victor Newman), The Young and the Restless
Steve Burton (as Jason Morgan), General Hospital
Scott Clifton (as Liam Spencer), The Bold and the Beautiful
Thorsten Kaye (as Ridge Forrester), The Bold and the Beautiful
Christian Jules Le Blanc (as Michael Baldwin), The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Daytime Drama Series
Linsey Godfrey (as Sarah Horton), Days of Our Lives
Camryn Grimes (as Mariah Copeland), The Young and the Restless
Beth Maitland (as Traci Abbott), The Young and the Restless
Trisha Mann-Grant (as Leslie Thomas), Beyond the Gates
Amanda Setton (as Brook Lynn Quartermaine), General Hospital
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series
Sean Dominic (as Nate Hastings), The Young and the Restless
Timon Kyle Durrett (as Bill Hamilton), Beyond the Gates
Michael Graziadei (as Daniel Romalotti), The Young and the Restless
Roger Howarth (as Matt Clark), The Young and the Restless
Mike Manning (as Bradley “Smitty” Smith), Beyond the Gates
Lawrence Saint-Victor (as Carter Walton), The Bold and the Beautiful
Photo: ABC
Outstanding Emerging Talent in a Daytime Drama Series
Braedyn Bruner (as Emma Scorpio-Drake), General Hospital
Al Calderon (as Javier Hernandez), Days of Our Lives
Alice Halsey (as Rachel Black), Days of Our Lives
Giovanni Mazza (as Gio Palmieri), General Hospital
Ambyr Michelle (as Eva Thomas), Beyond the Gates
Arielle Prepetit (as Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne), Beyond the Gates
Outstanding Guest Performance in a Daytime Drama Series
Jasmine Burke (as June Hughes), Beyond the Gates
Jeff Kober (as Cyrus Renault), General Hospital
Eva LaRue (as Natalia Rogers-Ramirez), General Hospital
Christopher Sean (as Paul Narita), Days of Our Lives
Ray Wise (as Ian Ward), The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Writing Team for a Daytime Drama Series
Beyond the Gates
The Bold and the Beautiful
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
Photo: CBS
Outstanding Directing Team for a Daytime Drama Series
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Casting for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Daytime Talk Series
3rd Hour of TODAY
The Drew Barrymore Show
The Kelly Clarkson Show
Live With Kelly and Mark
TODAY With Jenna & Friends
The View
Photo: ABC
Outstanding Daytime Talk Series Host
Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Alyssa Farah Griffin, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin & Ana Navarro, The View
Kelly Clarkson, The Kelly Clarkson Show
Tamron Hall, Tamron Hall
Jennifer Hudson, The Jennifer Hudson Show
Sherri Shepherd, Sherri
Outstanding Entertainment News Series
Access Hollywood
Entertainment Tonight
Extra
Outstanding Daytime Personality (Daily)
Mona Kosar Abdi, Derek Hough & Terri Seymour, Extra
Cassie DiLaura, Denny Directo, Kevin Frazier, Rachel Smith & Nischelle Turner, Entertainment Tonight
Scott Evans, Zuri Hall, Kit Hoover & Mario Lopez, Access Hollywood
Star Jones & Corey Jovan, Divorce Court
Photo: WBTV
Outstanding Arts and Popular Culture Program
Beyond the Gates: Welcome to the Neighborhood — An Entertainment Tonight Special
Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter
Variety & CNN Actors on Actors
Variety Studio: Actors on Actors
Working In the Theatre
Outstanding Music Direction and Composition for a Daytime
Beyond the Gates, Episode 103
Have Guitar Will Travel World
The Kelly Clarkson Show Episode 5033
Let Frankie Cook,” Getting the Band Back Together
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Outstanding Technical Direction and Video for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates, Episode 104
The Bold and the Beautiful,” Episode 9511
Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade”
The Jennifer Hudson Show, ” Episode 4041
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”
Photo: CBS
Outstanding Hairstyling and Makeup for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates, Episode 103
General Hospital, Episode 15719
The Kelly Clarkson Show,” Episode 5033
The Young and the Restless,” Episode 13273
Outstanding Sound Mixing and Sound Editing for a Live Daytime Program
The Bold and the Beautiful, Episode 9658
The Jennifer Hudson Show Episode 4039
The Kelly Clarkson Show Episode 5007
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Young and the Restless,” Episode 13260
Outstanding Lighting Direction for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates Episode 104
General Hospital Episode 15624
The Jennifer Hudson Show Episode 4010
The Kelly Clarkson Show Episode 6169
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”
Outstanding Art Direction/Set Decoration/Scenic Design for a Daytime Program
The Kelly Clarkson Show Episode 5033
Live with Kelly and Mark Episode 250414
The View Episode 6280
The Young and the Restless Episode 13145
The Young and the Restless Episode 13244
So, what do you think of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy nominations? Who are you happy to see receive a nomination and who do you think was snubbed? Weigh-in via the comment section.
General Hospital
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Award nominations kicked-off on Monday with the announcements of four major categories including, Outstanding Lead Performer in a Daytime Drama Series — Actor, and among the nominees is General Hospital’s Steve Burton (Jason Morgan).
Burton is already a two-time Daytime Emmy winner in the Supporting Actor category for his roles as GH’s Jason and his turn as Dylan McAvoy on Y&R. However, Steve is yet to win in the Lead Actor category and he has received 11 nominations along the way in his daytime career.
Following the reveal that he is a 2026 Daytime Emmy nominee, he and his GH co-star, podcast co-host and comedy show partner, Bradford Anderson (Spinelli) taped a special edition of their That’s Awesome podcast just featuring Burton’s reaction to the news.
Photo: JPI
FOR LESLIE CHARLESON
Steve expressed, “I know it’s such a cliche to say, ‘I’m just so honored to be nominated.’ But truly, I’m so grateful to be nominated, so grateful to just be on the show off and on for 30 plus years and to be nominated with the guys in my category. Just to get the opportunity. Frank (Valentini, executive producer, GH) texted me right away. I was just like, ‘Thank you for the opportunity to get to do what I do.'”
Taking in the moment, Burton thanked those who helped him select the material for his nominated reel. “Unless you win, you don’t get to say things. So. I’m going just say a few things: Elizabeth Korte (co-head writer, GH) helped me a lot with the material, (as did) Michelle Henry, who’s a producer on the show, Laura Wright (Carly, GH), and then my wife Michelle (Lundstrom). I believe it was Jill Phelps who told me that when A Martinez felt like he had a great show or great scenes, he would mark it down. So, when Emmy time comes, you have all the show numbers written down, and you don’t have to think about it, because that’s half the battle (finding the material).
Burton explained how meaningful this nomination is for him, because of playing the scenes of Jason losing Monica, and his closeness with the late, great Leslie Charleson.
“The nomination’s an amazing thing, and it’s beautiful, but really it’s to honor Leslie Charleson. A lot of my material was because of her, and how I started on the show as a Quartermaine, it just means a ton,” shared Burton. “Maurice Benard (Sonny, GH) has obviously has been instrumental, and I’ve said it from day one and I’ll shout it from the rooftops. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be here, and to be working with the people that we work with is incredible.”
Photo: JPI
SHOULD JOHN OLIVER BE NAMED HOST OF THE DAYTIME EMMYS?
During the end of his conversation with Anderson, Steve suggested that the host of the Daytime Emmy should be Last Week Tonight’s John Oliver, who recently guest starred as the head of the WSB named Z on General Hospital, and is soon to show up on Days of Our Lives in a mystery role in August.
Thus far, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences has not revealed their host for the upcoming ceremony to be held on October 30 in a venue to be named in Hollywood, California.
You can watch Steve sharing his reaction to receiving his 2026 Lead Actor Daytime Emmy nomination below on a special segment on the That’s Awesome podcast.
Now let us know, are you glad that Steve chose scenes surrounding Jason mourning the loss of the woman that raised him, Monica Quartermaine for his Emmy reel? What do you think of John Oliver as a suggestion to host the Daytime Emmys? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
TONIGHT: Daytime Emmy Nominations Special 2026 Live: Nominated Guest Line-Up
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 15
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actress Drama Series
Scott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
Randolph Mantooth, ‘Emergency!’ and ‘Loving’ Actor, Dies at 80
‘The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards’ Nominations Announcement Date Revealed: Who Will Be Going For Gold?
Steve Burton Returns to ‘General Hospital’ on Its 16,000th Episode: How Will Jason Be a Changed Man?
‘Daytime Emmy Nominations Special 2026’ Live on the Michael Fairman Channel
TONIGHT: Daytime Emmy Nominations Special 2026 Live: Nominated Guest Line-Up
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers Promo: Jason’s Back, Drew Begins to Make His Move, Portia Goes Into a Labor
Scott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
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As The World Turns2 days agoScott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
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Breaking News4 days agoRandolph Mantooth, ‘Emergency!’ and ‘Loving’ Actor, Dies at 80
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Beyond the Gates6 days ago‘The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards’ Nominations Announcement Date Revealed: Who Will Be Going For Gold?
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General Hospital4 days agoSteve Burton Returns to ‘General Hospital’ on Its 16,000th Episode: How Will Jason Be a Changed Man?
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