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Robert Newman Makes His Y&R Debut: What Were Your First Impressions of the New Ashland Locke?

By Michael Fairman

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Courtesy/CBS

Soap veteran, Robert Newman (Ex-Joshua Lewis, Guiding Light) returned to network daytime drama on Wednesday’s episode of The Young and the Restless.

Newman has taken over the role of business mogul, Ashland Locke, replacing Richard Burgi, who had previously shared that he was let go under a Covid-19 policy protocol within the show.

Now all eyes are on Robert in the pivotal role.  In his first aired scenes, Newman them with Mark Grossman (Adam) discussing the power struggle between the two companies – Newman- Locke and Newman Media. Victoria (Amelia Heinle) walked in to the conversation not knowing what the men had been talking about.  Then, Adam says Sally (Courtney Hope) has been named the COO, which upsets Ashland and Victoria.

Later, Victor (Eric Braeden) has a chat with Ashland about his said treatment at a clinic in Peru. Apparently, Ashland pulled some strings at got to the head of the line, which was not on the up and up to do so.

Finally, Ashland heads to society for a drink and receives a call that an American is poking around in Peru about him, in which Ashland tells the caller to stick with the plan.  You can see that scene below.

In a recent interview with SOD, Newman shared to the fans: “I know recasts can be really difficult for fans. I’m anticipating that there will be some level of disappointment for some people. I’ve watched other actors who are recasts go through difficult times with fans, and I hope it doesn’t quite work that way for me, but we’ll see. It’s not my job to decide what anybody who watches the show likes and what they don’t like. My job is to interpret the material I’m given to the best of my ability. I’m just trying to honor the character and the writers’ intent to the best of my ability. It might be different and it might be a little rocky for the first period of time. I’m just a guy trying to do my best here and to fans, I would just say, ‘Be gentle! Whatever break you can give me, give me, at least for the first few episodes. And then, if you want to start tearing into me, feel free (Laughs).”

So, what were your first impressions of Robert Newman as Ashland on Y&R? Going to give him the chance to make the role his own? Share your thoughts in the comment section.

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Nope
Richard Burghi himself made a short term role long term. If it wasnt for him the role of Ashland would just be another poorly conceived Josh Griffith creation. He exuded sexiness and charm and strength to be considered a genoa city powerhouse alternative to the aging Jack and Vic.
The role switch is to jarring because like Mark Grossman , Richard acts rascally, so you love to hate him.
I actually erased the show half way, I cant stomach Nikki the previous socialite as a executive or another Billys searching for himself arc.
Anyone have any insight on to when the viewers will finally get a real headwriter?

I agree Damien. RN is just not convincing, yet, as a crafty type. Maybe I’m biased because of so many years watching him as good guy Josh Lewis. I LOVE Mark Grossman’s version of Adam; I actually like him and think Victoria’s current behavior is sadistic, childish, abhorrent. Taking a measuring tape to his office to rub it in… what is she, nine? And yet ANOTHER personal crisis for Billy Abbott? YAWN! He’s so unlikable anyway; he has no more stones to throw at anybody. He’ll screw up this job opportunity in no time.

It seems like CBS has confidence in Tony Morina & Josh Griffith since they’re both vets of the show and write “character-driven” stories. But the dialogue has gotten so stale, it feels like actors are bored with the lines they’re saying. And none of the stories right not are exciting in any way. There are very few people to root for and characters like Sally, who I love, feel out of place because of how interesting they are in comparison to everyone else – which is NOT how it should be.

Is it ‘confidence ‘?
Seems more like they ( cbs/ sony) just doesnt ‘care’
Anyone with a pulse could see this show lacks any vision…

I agree about the dialogue ; if the actors aren’t bored , I am! I watch when Victor and Adam are in a scene. Nikki shows more loyalty to her children than Victor: she hasn’t the slightest idea what it means to be a help meet.

I loved Burgi ; however , I’ll give Newman a chance! I’m waiting for the new writers , too.

I’m late to the party, but I totally agree with Damien, Burgi was a formidable candidate to be the next Victor Newman. Poor Robert Newman couldn’t replace him, no one can, just like Victor. Now other than Victor and Adam, most of the men are a bunch of boring saps, not to mention Chance, Danny Boaz made Abby interesting. Please do something, anything to improve what was once my favorite show. It’s awful.

So right, Felicia. To me, Billy Abbott is the worst. That podcast? As Sophia Petrillo would say, “You need BOOTS to listen to this guy.” I swear, most of us spoke more intelligently than than him in grammar school! I like Noah the actor but they’re giving him NOTHING interesting. For a while, I thought his working with his uncle Adam might cause some sparks…maybe draw the family closer. But they squelched that PRONTO! Chance? Cute but dull as dishwater. And why is Devon in EVERY storyline?

Felicia. As am i!!!! My TV is still paused bc like I do not want to keep watching. There was no warning that the last Qshland scene was my last ughhhh..

Omg I love Danny Boaz… this Chance… mehhh not feeling him

Yuck! Too old for Amelia Heineken!
On 4/19/22 episode he kissed her and I vomited at the gross old man in her lovely young face! Make it stop.

I was thinking the same… I just found out the news today. I was wayyyyyyy before on my soaps and am now catching up. When I heard the role of Ashland… I’m like pause. Is he sick or whatis going on??

They could have given him a pass. How was he to know that the cdc > cbs like cmon. Should have been given a warning, not let go. Like they really couldnt send him home???

Sounds like one of those cases of any excuse to get rid of someone…

But yes He just exudes a charm, sexy yes devious. And his voice like Richard made Ashland and I cannot see Ashland played by any one else… they’ll find a way to kill him off I think… but initially I hated him and he became my fave character… I qlso liked that I got to see an older more suave Karl from DH

He is a vet, he can handle just about anything. I wasnt sold on the other Ashland so Robert will be good in this role. He has already shown a harder line with Adam and I like it!

I think that Robert Newman is doing a very good job in the role of Ashland Locke. He is a good actor and is making role his own.

I am so impressed at how Robert Newman has “become” Ashland Locke. I noticed he has the same mannerisms and expressions. Great job!

Love Robert. All they need now is a certain spitfire to come to Genoa City!! I’m Just Sayin….

He was great yesterday, for a first-day — especially considering he was thrown right into dramatic scenes with Adam and Victor. Really captured some of the speech patterns of Richard Burgi, and showed how the writers are moving Ashland in a more villainous way. Of course it always takes time to get used to a recast, but Robert Newman hit the ground running He’ll only get even better from here.

When he says, “I’ve watched other actors who are recasts go through difficult times with fans,” I can only think of poor Nicole Forester from “Guiding Light” who was just treated terribly by fans after she was given the double whammy of replacing the super-popular Laura Wright as Cassie at the same time a very divisive storyline about Cassie and Josh falling in love took off.

I actually liked Nicole’s Cassie much better than Laura’s…who ironically married Josh!

Robert Newman is a true professional. He has made the role of Ashland Locke his own.

yes Robert has.

I’ve never cared for the character of Ashland and I’m not sold on his relationship with Victoria either. Her best relationship will always have been with Billy Miller’s version of Billy. Robert Newman is a talented actor and I’m sure he’ll do fine in the role, but I would have preferred to see him join GH as Liz’s father Jeff Webber. I’m also not thrilled with how Richard Burgi was let go from the show – seems a bit extreme for an honest mistake.

I’ve also never cared for the Ashland character. One reason is that both Ashland’s look too old for Victoria. Makes you wonder if she has daddy issues. Plus I don’t like Victoria much either. Always trying to get Victor’s love and respect while competing with him at the same time.

Agreed. I feel it was an any excuse to let go let go kind of thing…
Like why not a warning. CBS cmon

I tuned into The Young and the Restless for the first time since February 2020, and it was wonderful to see Robert Newman back on a soap opera. Granted, it is not the role I would’ve wanted for him, but he completely OWNED his scenes. He gave me Kirk Cranston vibes, and I love it.

Robert Newman did a fantastic job on his first day on Y&R – he is a great actor who I have missed seeing on my tv screen!
I Loved, Loved, Loved him as Joshua Lewis and Reva’s BUD on GL!
BTW- he’s much better eye candy than Richard Burgi – I’m just sayin !

Robert Newman did a fantastic job on his first day on Y&R as Ashland
It was so great to see him on my tv screen again –
I loved , loved, loved him as Joshua Lewis
Aka – Reva’s BUD on GL !
BTW- Robert is much better eye candy than Richard Burgi – I’m just sayin !
I think he’s the Best Looking man on Daytime TV
Now if we can only get Billy Miller back on a soap!

As I said on another site, I’ve been skeptical as to Robt. Newman as Aston but I think when that bell rang, he was out of the gate, on his way to the finish line. I liked how he was on Billy’s case right off the bat and stood up to Victor as well. I want to see him and Victoria more and if there are any vibes there.

Yes a familiar face, same age as character, grey hair, the issue will be the writing and direction they take the character. And please stop dropping sets – Lillie gets a big new job and a week later she is working from home. Next everyone will just be meeting in the park.

Great actor!!

Richard Burghi owns Ashland–
The replacement gave it a good try, but-
he’ll never be thee, Ashland..
Robert Newman looks much older and doesn’t fit with Victoria..
Bad chem casting–
But- it is what it is___

I agree with you 100%!

He doesn’t look older, they’re both the exact same age.

Agree Burgos had great chemistry with actress who plays Victoria and he is much more handsome

Absolutely agree! I can hardly stand to watch him.

Richard Burgi’s portrayal of Ashland Locke made the character debonair, charming, worldly and sexy. He looked fantastic in a tailored business suit. And with signature mannerisms and his smooth, throaty voice, it all worked together as being believable that Victoria Newman would be attracted to a man like him. The chemistry btwn the two was only getting better. Richard’s Ashland was extended bc fans responded to how great he was with Amelia Heinle. But the brilliant suits at CBS decided to throw all of that away, on a technicality with covid, to pursue their potential February Sweeps ratings with a former GL veteran favorite. BRAVO CBS!

Amen!
Richard Burghi imo was the only positive to come out of Griffiths nonsense

Damien
I thought so too until I’d seen Robert Newman’s version of Ashland. I think he’s doing a great job playing this high powered , decidedly, devious ,etc,etc,etc man. Cannot wait to see what ultimately he turns out to be.

I agree, Violet. I was fast forwarding through Ashland scenes but no longer. RN is so talented and charismatic.

He’s great ! But the writing and production values are the worst they have been in 20 years .

Embaressing really
Its so bad it looks like its going the way of fading into cancellation
No plots, no sets,no romance,no excitement, no music , no point….

It’s so strange ! The formula is there for it to be a hit show . The current regime needs to look at old Young and The Restless episodes from the 90s.
The music , the sets, the characters . It’s a very watered down version of a once great show . I’m surprised it’s not doing worse in the ratings.

Damien
No ####!! Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.
P.S I haven’t heard or seen any fat ladies singing yet.

When new Ashland is next to Victor they look like brothers–
Victoria banging her uncle LOL
The chem is way off–
My stomach knots when imagining them doing the nasty–
It’s just gross–
Hot passionate kisses are never going to happen because it would be the barff bag–

I agree, su000. Why does every actor past 40 (and their producers) want to look ancient with prematurely grey hair and those dreadful beards that age some men by 10 years or more. Everyone’s so concerned with being their “authentic self” they’ve forgotten they’re actors playing a role and RN looks too old to be Ashland Locke.

So disappointed, I don’t like new Ashton, just doesn’t suit the spot
with Victoria.
Bring back Ashton.

The character’s name is Ashland, and the original actor, Richard Burgi, as great as he was, did not comply with the covid restrictions and, therefore, was let go. Robert has obviously studied the character, and is doing well with all of the nuances, and will ultimately interpret the character with his own.

Robert Newman has made it point to mention he did not watch Richard Burgi in the role; everything he is bringing to the role is on his own accord and what he’s taking from the script. He’s turning crap into gold.

Interesting. His nuances are fantastic, and he will turn this role into his own. I adore Robert, and it will be interesting to see how he and Amelia evolve as a couple. Thanks for the insight:)

Couldn’t agree more. Loved Richard Burgi in the role but just can’t stand Robert Newman in the role. He gives me the creeps.

He fitted right in

Only watch one soap — Y&R. So, Mr.Newman is new to me. First view was his meeting with Victor. Was surprised that he appeared to be noticeably older than the previous Ashland as well as heavier. Don’t know why the beard surprised me. I like beards. He came across as taking a more aggressive stance in his role and perhaps on the dark side as exhibited in the bar following the meeting. I too wondered about how the connection with Victoria would feel for the viewer.

Well, another side of him appeared to emerge, a softer and kinder side, when Victoria entered their office. It didn’t appear to be too awkward. He can play both roles. Will probably take more time to see if it works. However, for me, Victoria (the actress) is doing a terrific job in her role as the head of Newman. She can be delightfully cutthroat and duplicitous. For Mr. Newman, I give the guy a thumbs up for potential!

Tani Sterling
I think your assessment of Robt. Newman’s take on Ashland, is the most like mine. Why would people expect him to mimic Burgi? Newman has said he never watched the other man’s version, because he wanted the character to be his own. Yes, his physique is a little broader and heavier and I agree with Soaphound here about his beard. I don’t like all that facial hair on an older man because I think it tends to make him look older, and in this case Victoria likes the idea of having a father figure that she can be romantic with.

i love robert newman on y and r. GREAT CHOICE

Welcome to Young and Restless , Robert! You’re all right with, me!

Newman looks like Victoria’s grandfather .please, Bring back Burgi letting him go for a five day Covid nonsense quarantine is absolutely stupid!

I hate the new ashton locke (Robert Newma n) not good looking, not charming, not a convincing actor, no chemistry between Victoria and him. Bring back Richard Burgi!!!

I agree. Makes me think of no longer watching. Just not enough to hold my interest. Robert Newman nay be a good actor but in this role he can’t compare to Richard Burgi. Only interesting couple is Adam and Sally. The rest is a snorefest.

100% Agree!

First day on canvas Robert Grossman was okay. March 15, 2022 he has come into his own (Ashland Locke)! I love his scenes! Victoria you are truly Victor the 2nd! The tape measure scene with Adam was devilishly good, day time Soap. Victoria you are Victor, and Jack’s replacement!

Ashland we went from sexy to grandpa. I just can not buy into this. Vic is now married to grandpa. I could believe it with the original ashland because even though he was closer to dad vics age than victorias age …he was sexy…now we have rolly polly grandpa! Nope!!!!

No…just..NO

I guess I’m in the minority but I’m not a fan of the new “Ashland” on The Young & the Restless. I really miss Richard Burgi as the portrayer of the “Ashland” character. Another casualty of COVID-19!! I know recasts can be incredibly hard but I’m just not feeling this one…. We lost Richard Burgi for such a stupid reason is not helping to accept the new actor. If he was a new character, I’m sure I would feel differently!!

Great actor but I cringe thinking of him kissing Amelia Heinle. Looks like her dad!! Eww – no. Please stop pushing old men’s fantasies onto younger actresses!

General Hospital

GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sidwell Surfaces; A Twist in Britt’s Condition

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On the Thursday, June 18 episode of General Hospital, Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota) makes his shocking return right in Port Charles, after fleeing (thanks to Cassius) to supposedly parts unknown to escape capture for trying to kill Dr. Lucas Jones (Van Hansis).

How does he show up in town? First, Ezra (Daniel Cosgrove) gets a text from Jacinda (Paige Herschell) to meet in his hotel room. Ezra thinks the two are going to have a sexcapade so he puts champagne on ice for his favorite escort.

Suddenly, there is a knock at the door. Ezra’s excitement turns towards fear as instead of Jacinda, Sidwell is standing in front of him. Next, Sidwell blackmails Boyle telling him he has plenty of leverage he can use against him. Sidwell wants to use Ezra to help him takedown, Sonny (Maurice Benard), Lucas, Laura (Genie Francis) and Cullum.

Courtesy/ABC

ARE SIDWELL’S DAYS NUMBERED?

Meanwhile, Sonny confides in his brother, Ric (Rick Hearst). He says he knows who killed Marco an he is going to use that intel to lure Sidwell out of hiding.  Sonny also shares he is going to kill Sidwell, and handle this by himself. He gave the PCPD a chance, but they failed to nab Sidwell for good and lock him up.

Sonny also has been tracking the whereabouts of Britt (Kelly Thiebaud) and Rocco (Finn Carr) through Brick, and learned they took a flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and then boarded a fairy to take them somewhere off the island.

Courtesy/ABC

BRITT’S ‘SYMPTOMS’ RETURN

Turns out, Britt and Rocco are hiding out in the British Virgin Islands. Britt set up Rocco with a burner phone and a VPN on her tablet, that is not traceable. Rocco reads on the tablet about Lucas’ shooting. Britt starts to have the shakes and passes out. When she comes to, Britt won’t let Rocco call a doctor, but he uses his phone to step on the balcony and call Charlotte (Bluesy Burke) and ask for help. Charlotte looks shocked to hear from her brother as Danny (Asher Antonyzyn) looks on!

Courtesy/ABC

However, Joe (Jonathan Bennett) could be the one to put two and two together! While at General Hospital and after questioning Lucas about a syringe he found that was in someone’s possession. the toxicology report showed traces of saline solution, not actual medication. He asks Dr. Jones, why someone would inject themselves with saline? Lucas responds saline is harmless and would have no effect on someone.

So, does this mean that this entire time, Britt has been led to believe that the medication she was taking to treat her Huntington’s disease was placebo? Has Britt been lied to into believing she is dying? Is something else wrong with her instead?

Share your thoughts and theories via the comment section below, and if you are ready for Sidwell to finally get his comeuppance from Sonny! But first, watch the scenes where Sidwell comes out of hiding and blackmails Ezra Boyle.

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General Hospital

GENERAL HOSPITAL: Dante and ‘Nathan’ Have It Out, Valentin and Carly Share Passionate Moments Which May Be Their Last

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On the June 16 episode of General Hospital, the PCPD under acting police commissioner Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) is in a bit of mess and does not go unnoticed by ADA Turner (Nazneen Contractor).

First, there is the whole Chase (Josh Swickard) defending Willow Cain (Katelyn MacMullen) over Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot), who he arrested for allegedly tossing Willow in the waters next to the Quartermaine boathouse. Turner has had it with Chase’s good guy act and how he tampered with evidence in her case against Willow for shooting Drew.

Later, Dante and Justine question “Nathan” (Ryan Paevey) about Sidwell’s escape while in his custody. Turner is not buying his cover story that he was ambushed by Sidwell and his men. Once “Nathan” left the interrogation room, Turner went in on Dante about having “Nathan” on the force after seven years away, and Chase she views as a “dirty cop.”

However, Dante defends both of his officers, but Justine warned that “Nathan” and Chase’s behavior would reflect poorly on Dante as commissioner and she should really think about that. Later, Dante has a terse confrontation with “Nathan” on how he botched a prison transport and that he better watch his back as Justine is one step away from turning this over to Internal Affairs.

COP MADNESS

Next, “Nathan” apologizes for the way he handled the situation with Rocco and says he feels badly. But then in the twist, Dante said that he was grateful that “Nathan” had been there for his son in his time of need (referencing after Rocco shot Cullum and covered it up).

Then, there’s the newest police officer in the precinct, Joe Fitzpatrick (Jonathan Bennett). He may actually be on to “Nathan’s” double life when he questions him about a syringe found in Britt’s room at Bobbie’s. “Nathan” made up a story to counter Joe’s, that he was not aware that his sister was taking anything for her Huntington’s disease diagnosis. Joe called the forensic department lab wanting to know what drug was exactly in the syringe.

Courtesy/ABC

BEFORE YOU GO

At Carly’s (Laura Wright), Valentin (James Patrick Stuart) tells her that he must travel to Geneva to speak to the head of the WSB, named Z. Valentin feels it’s the only way to save Josslyn if he informs Z about Cullum (Andrew Hawkes) being a double agent. Valentin shares with Carly that he has to stop Cullum from bringing his dangerous cold fusion device online. Carly is beside herself. She doesn’t want Valentin to sacrifice himself by turning himself into the organization who has made him a fugitive in the first place. Valentin stands firm that he must meet Z in person.

Knowing that revealing himself to the WSB meant he was likely going back to prison, Valentin asked Carly if she’d get in touch with his daughter, Charlotte so he could say good-bye to her. Next, Carly and Valentin make their way to the bedroom to make love, which may be for the very last time, if Valentin is caught and put back in Steinmauer Maximum Security Prison.

Courtesy/ABC

CAUGHT BY CULLUM

At the same time while at Wydemere, Cullum is talking with one of his WSB operatives. Now, he is pondering if Valentin and Sidwell were working together all along.  Next, Cullum entertains the idea of involving the FBI to locate Britt and Rocco. He says he plans to kill them both once he knows of their whereabouts. Cullum sees the only other threat to the completion of the cold fusion project to be Anna Devane.

Cullum wants to track the location of the unidentified person who called the private clinic in France trying to get in touch with Anna, while pretending to be Kevin Collins. When the agent came back with a report, he says it emanated from a cell tower near Shoreline Road. It’s in the that moment that a light bulb goes on for Cullum! Valentin is in Port Charles and hiding at Carly’s!

So, what do you think of the PCPD cops, Chase, Joe and “Nathan?” Who should Dante fire? Do you think Valentin will go the run?Are you digging Carly and Valentin’s relationship and want it to continue, especially with Finola Hughes on her way back as Anna next month on-screen? Weigh-in via the comment section, and in case you missed it, you can check out our latest interview with Dominic Zamprogna below from his appearance on the Michael Fairman Channel, where he talks the PCPD cops, Rocco on the run, and more.

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Beyond the Gates

BEYOND THE GATES: A Tornado Hits Fairmont Crest Part 1: Eva and Martin on Seriously Injured List

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On the Thursday, June 11 episode of Beyond the Gates the highly-anticipated tornado struck the Fairmont Crest Country Club while Martin Richardson was holding a fundraiser with the most prominent citizens of Genoa City and the D.C./Maryland area attending.

Martin tells the guest that weather reports indicate a tornado warning, and as he tells them to exit the ballroom to safety, the twister strikes sending everyone into peril,. Richardson and Dupree and Abbott family members are calling out for each other as chaos ensues.

Here is who got stuck with who: Dani and Bill are stuck in an elevator and begin to get hot and bothered after trying to escape. Hayley is stuck in a closet with Kyle Abbott and they makeout, and then to pass the time she puts on some tunes and they dance.

Courtesy/CBS

THOSE IN NEED OF MEDICAL ATTENTION

Things are much more serious for Kat and Eva who winds up in a closet but a mental wall comes crashing down upon them. As Kat rails at her sister, Eva says she doesn’t feel well and begins to spit up blood. Kat is a wreck and is trying to deal with her sister’s plight, but they are trapped.

Leslie is helping Anita with her injured ankle, while Vernon goes to try to restore some power, get walkie-talkies and do what he can for everyone inside Fairmont Crest. Nicole and Smitty hear a noise and realize Andre is buried under the rubble in the ballroom. As it turns Andre’s leg was injured when a piece of metal got stuck in it. Ted gets Andre stitched up and tells him to stay put.

The Genoa City contingent can’t locate Victor Newman or Kyle Abbott, as Jack and Diane try to help others. Meanwhile, suddenly yells out that someone is under the tree. Smitty and Nicole gasps as its Martin! He is not moving in and needs medical attention. Smitty fighting back tears asks Martin to squeeze his hand if he can hear him. But there is no response.

Abby Newman worried for the whereabouts of her father, walks away just as chandelier begins to fall from the ceiling, Diane screams out to Abby to watch out. We fade to black.

Beyond the Gates delivered as they had promised, a riveting episode and one of the best soap opera tornadoes harkening back to the days of All My Children. But what did you think of part one? Martin and Eva as the two characters currently most in trouble? What about Dani and Bill getting hot and heavy and Hayley kissin on Kyle? What was your favorite part of part 1? Let us know via the comment section below.

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Jonathan Bennett joins the cast of GH as Joe Fitzpatrick. Catch the latest promo! Leave a comment.Leave A Comment

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