General Hospital

1973 10th Anniversary General Hospital

GH Cast Photo (2023)

General Hospital (GH) is an American daytime television soap opera that is listed in the Guinness World Records as the longest-running American soap opera in production and the second longest-running drama in television in American history. The show was created by Frank and Doris Hursley and premiered on the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) on April 1, 1963. The setting of the series is in the fictional city of Port Charles, New York. The Hursley family's original concept was a show centered on the drama of a hospital, hence the name General Hospital.

Plot and Themes

General Hospital focuses on the lives, loves, adventures, and hardships of the staff and various residents of Port Charles. Over the decades, the show has shifted from its original hospital-based theme to include stories about organized crime, high adventure, and international intrigue. The series has also tackled numerous social issues, including but not limited to, substance abuse, mental health, HIV/AIDS, and sexual assault.

Cast and Characters

The series has featured a wide range of characters over the years. Notable characters include Luke Spencer, portrayed by Anthony Geary, and Laura Webber, portrayed by Genie Francis, whose 1981 wedding was watched by 30 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched events in American daytime television history. Other notable characters include Sonny Corinthos, Jason Morgan, and Elizabeth Webber.

Production

General Hospital has been produced by various producers over the years, with significant contributions from Gloria Monty, who is credited with revitalizing the show in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The show is filmed at The Prospect Studios in Los Angeles, California.

Impact and Legacy

General Hospital has had a significant impact on American culture and the soap opera genre. It has introduced several groundbreaking storylines and has been praised for its approach to social issues. The show has won numerous awards, including the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series multiple times.

Fan Base and Media

The show has a dedicated fan base and has been the subject of various media adaptations and references, including books and parodies. It also has a significant presence on social media and online forums where fans discuss ongoing storylines and theories.

See Also

• Soap opera
• Daytime television
• List of longest-running United States television series