General Hospital (1963 TV Series)

About General Hospital

General Hospital, an American daytime drama, commenced its run on the ABC television network in 1963. The show revolves around the life and times of people in a namesake hospital in Port Charles, a fictional city in upstate New York, and covers genres such as medical, crime, mystery, romance, and adventure.

Making / Production

Created by husband-and-wife soap writers Frank and Doris Hursley, who were responsible for its production for nearly four decades. The show is currently produced by ABC Daytime and is the second longest-running daytime drama in American television history.

Actors

• Steve Hardy (played by John Beradino): A kindhearted doctor who was a mainstay on the show from its inception until 1996. His portrayal was lauded for its consistency and heartfelt performances.
• Laura Webber (played by Genie Francis): Known for her long-running, complex relationship with Luke Spencer; her performance has been praised for its depth and emotional resonance.
• Luke Spencer (played by Anthony Geary): Introduced in 1978, his character's redemption and romance with Laura Webber made them a supercouple on the show.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• General Hospital holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running American soap opera currently in production.
• It was the first TV show to depict the recasting of characters when actors left the show.
• The famous 'Luke and Laura' wedding in 1981 still holds the record as the highest-rated hour in American soap opera history.

Awards

General Hospital has won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards. It has won 14 times for Outstanding Drama Series (more than any other show in this category).

Quotes

• "The only miracle here is that a guy like me could be so lucky to have someone like you."
• "Life goes on, and the best is yet to come."
• "You don’t need a reason to help people."

Music, Soundtrack

• "Theme from General Hospital" by Jack Urbont
• "Faces of the Heart" by Dave Koz
• "Autumn Breeze" by Paul Glass