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202 August 9th, 2012 GH’s EP Frank Valentini on The New Opening, Changes Ahead, And The Competition!

Courtesy/ABC

Following the General Hospital panel at the recent ABC Summer Press Tour TCA’s, On-Air On-Soaps had a few moments to ask GH’s executive producer, Frank Valentini his thoughts on the new GH show open, what other changes he has planned for the lone ABC that may reflect in the the look and feel of it, and how he feels GH compares to his soap opera competition on the other networks!  Here is what the talented Valentini had to say about it!

Valentini on the decision of who to include in the opening and why it was made much shorter: “We need to think of General Hospital as a show that keeps evolving and so we put some of the newer characters into the open. We also made it shorter  so there is more programming content too.  So all the time taken out of our open was put into our show.  I think that is really exciting and good for the fans too, as there is more General Hospital.  I think that was more important that seeing the opening of the show, because a lot of fans said they fast-forward through it.

Valentini on other changes he plans to make to the look and feel of GH, when he has already quickened the pace and spread out the wealth of story among many characters similar to how he made OLTL a success:  “There are many things I want to do and I am someone who looks to the future.  I think there is a lot more. General Hospital is such a giant brand that has a lot of equity in it and I want to exploit and explore that.  I think a couple of the other changes we made are the lighting changes and the way the shows looks, which people have responded too. We have boxing ring sequences with Sonny that are cinematic. It is great for story, and it is also visually exciting and something like that will  always enhance the viewer experience.  This is a show that shot in HD and really beautiful. “

Valentini on if he checks out what his competitors are doing, and how he thinks GH stacks up against them:  “I am always listening and paying attention to what other people are doing, but I don’t think the other shows can touch General Hospital right now.”

So what do you think of the shorter opening?  Are you getting used to it?  And, do you see and feel the rhythm and look of GH evolving?   And, finally, how do you think GH stacks up against DAYS, Y&R and B&B?   Weigh-in!

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202
  1. Monica says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:23 pm

    I definitely noticed the changes in lighting – it’s softer and more realistic. In comparing it with other soaps, I agree with Valentini. YR writing has lacked so much in the last two years I can’t even watch it. DAYS rebooted itself almost a year ago, but there’s nothing exciting going on there.

    I was a huge OLTL fan and saw the introduction of a few OLTL characters a great way for GH to gain OLTL fan support. I’m hopeful that GH will continue for many years to come.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 9th, 2012 at 4:54 pm

    I agree with what you said on the second paragraph of your comment OLTL fan support for GH..

    Reply

    Christi replied August 9th, 2012 at 10:03 pm

    I do not feel it looks softer or more realistic. I feel the lights are too bright and are glaring. I really really really miss the way it used to be lit. It just gave GH a cool, edgy vibe. Even more I miss RC Cates, the old background music guy/music director. He had such a sensitive touch. The new music people are improving, so that’s good… but they need more silences.. more NO music. Go watch old GH and there are so many POWERFUL scenes with NO music.. they let the ACTORS do the work. But then, when the music comes in, it is SOOO perfect I really, really really miss RC Cates. I would also like to know w hy they fired every single GH script writer except for Kate Hall.. and Elizabeth Korte, although I get the feeling Korte has to do more with continuity than actual script writing. The oldl writers, had such a nuance about them.. and one of the things I miss about the old GH is the NUANCE. I am SO angry at Mr. Valentini for coming in and changing things that did NOT need to be changed at GH. He should have focused on good stories and NOT changed what was awesome. ::calming down now.. it’s just a show::… but why, why, why….

    Reply

    Trisha replied August 10th, 2012 at 12:38 pm

    I agree. It’s so obvious that the new writers do NOT know the GH characters, their personalities or their histories. All of a sudden Sonny and Carly are not even talking, even about their kids. It’s just plain strange. There are no familial connections anymore and everyone is off doing something by themselves, with someone that doesn’t make sense…GH is unrecognizable and that’s a shame after all these yrs on the air.

  2. Ces says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:25 pm

    OLTL’s success? Um, OLTL is no longer on the air so these little changes may not be successful for GH in the long run. I don’t like the new opening at all. Too many characters on the show that have nothing to do.

    Reply

    Matt replied August 10th, 2012 at 5:23 am

    OLTL’s cancellation has nothing to do with it’s artistic success. In fact, it had better ratings than GH when it was cancelled.

    Reply

    Kimberly replied August 10th, 2012 at 5:52 pm

    OLTL was ABC’s highest rated soap and GH has had small but measurable gains since the team of Frank Valentini took over as the EP and Ron Carlivati as head writer.

    There are always extraneous characters in “soapland” not every character can be involved in every story. The introduction of OLTL characters is no different than random arrivals of Maggie, Joe Scully, Ewen and whoever else the flavor of the day is. The only difference is that the arrival of OLTL characters may have given GH an infusion of people (like myself) who stopped watching GH years ago because they (me) were unhappy with the direction it went in, however remained OLTL fans and have followed the characters from Llanview to Port Charles.

    aria replied August 14th, 2012 at 7:36 pm

    yeah, better rating in its last year, lets not rewrite history here, if OLTL was such a cash cow for abc, why would they let it go over GH?

  3. Richard says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:30 pm

    Now I understand the opening. Don’t like it, but I do get his point. And it is true, NONE of the other shows can touch GH right now. That is why I so do not understand its ratings.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 9th, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    I like seeing all the actors & actresses in the intro like OLTL use to have..

    Reply

    Allison replied August 9th, 2012 at 6:09 pm

    I’ll take more show over more opening. GH has always been superior to OLTL which is why it’s still on the air. Writing, acting and directing all better and now, I love the new lighting. Even the wardrobe and sets have gotten better. More color and class. LOVE IT, ALWAYS LOVED IT, he just impressed on an already great show and has made it even better.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:42 am

    Yes GH is better because of the ex-writers of OLTL!!!!! Thanks to them GH is finally on the right track…And I don’t think Gh has always been superior to OLTL…..I always watched OLTL more than GH. When OLTL was on…Just recentely started watching Gh when the crossovers from OLTL came on….To me in the past I felt GH too many mob oriented stories…But now, it has improved & is much better now thanks to the writers of OLTL…..

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:45 am

    Thanks to Frank & Ron the ex-writing team of OLTL ..Gh is exploding in a extremely good way…..

  4. JaSamOneHopeOneFaithOneLove says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:33 pm

    GH sucks the opening sucks & takes away from the history of GH!! FV&RC is not listening to the GH Fans.. and it surely reflects in the ratings.. FV ur correct when saying the other shows can’t touch GH.. because GH is last place far worser than the other shows… ThankYou Micheal for allowing me to state my honest opinion…

    Reply

    GHFan replied August 9th, 2012 at 6:58 pm

    You have no idea what a good soap is . It seems as though you don’t like the soap because Jason and Sam are not together. There is more to GH then Jason and Sam. Get a grip, I wish GH was two hrs long. I can’t get enough

    Reply

    David replied August 9th, 2012 at 10:27 pm

    You hit the nail on the head! :)

    Reply

    angela replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:27 am

    Stop complaining! My God where have you been the past year and a half? OLTL’s ratings were HIGHER than GH’s! It’s no secret the huge mistake abc made by canceling OLTL. We all know now how flawed the rating system is. When Bob Guza took over everyone was so excited thinking he was going to make changes and put GH back on top. All he did was to put the show into a coma. When abc brought FV and RC to GH they knew they would once again work their magic as they did with OLTL. They came in in January and hit the floor running. They understand the fans (which is why Robin is still alive and we have some old timers back). It may take awhile and I know alot of GH fans are upset about the people from OLTL joining the cast but you have to realize this was done to bring more viewers to GH and to keep it on the air! I can’t believe how people who say they love GH can sit and complain about the opening when you have been told it is short so that they can give us more show! What is wrong with you all? Do you want GH to survive or not??? Stop complaining about stuipid nonsense and be happy we still have a show to watch.

    Reply

    Mary Fergen replied August 10th, 2012 at 4:03 pm

    Well said, Angela! I agree with all the points that you made!

    susan M. replied August 11th, 2012 at 5:28 am

    I agree with Angela, on her entire post!!!!!!!!! Yes stop complaining you still have your favorite soap & you can still watch it..My #1 favorite soap is gone (OLTL)…OLTL crossovers a plus for GH.. More viewers!!!!!!!!!!! This is a good thing… Angela made a lot of good points………….Everyone should read them!!!

    susan M. replied August 12th, 2012 at 11:24 am

    Gh doesn’t S–CK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    aria replied August 14th, 2012 at 11:32 pm

    oh yeah, you OLTL viewers have really made a difference, because GH is now #3 or#4 woo hoo, you guys have really helped in the ratings, you should actually be thanking GH for making room for those crapy oltl crossover character because oh my god, they’re so rich with history and depth. and what was GH without them before? I mean think about it, Starr is the next singing superstar, i see her giving Britney Spear a run for her money, and John, well yeah, really he’s going to put Sonny and Jason away i see it coming and as for Todd, the guy could get his own spin off and we can call it ALL MY VICTIMS. Yeah, thats the Ticket.

    angela replied August 15th, 2012 at 2:02 pm

    Aria you need to reread what I wrote, because you either missed the point I was trying to make or you’re just too ignorant to understand what I was saying. First of all no one actor or actress can save a show. Bob Guza ruined GH! He did nothing. His storylines were dark and depressing. He turned out to be nothing more than a huge disappointment. Jill Farren Phelps had her day. It was time for new blood and abc went with Frank Valentini. He and Ron C proved themselIves on oltl. Its no secret that the show should have never been cancelled. I have watched GH since 1970 through good times and bad. I am a true soap fan I stick with my show no matter what. True I watched oltl as well but I lost one show and whatever it takes to keep GH on the air well Im all for it. Can you say the same?

    kimscharms55 replied August 23rd, 2012 at 8:30 am

    Sorry Angela,
    I disagree theonly time the ratings for One life soared was when it was announced uit was being canceled. and your wrong again about G.H. under Guza and Pharen Phelps G.H. had chart topping ratings plus allot of other Emmy awards to their credirtr. He didn’t put G.H. into a coma .yes some of his stories could be considered redundant so di these cartoon hacks Cartini at one life. Please for example tjhe “JESS/Tess?Bess/Wes and the rapist Bobby Ford? and John Mc Bat to the rescue they hypocritical ass wipe . Please these 2 writers are intent on destroying the mere essence of G.H. and turn intoanother round of One life . and who suffers not tonly the “ORIGINAL FANS: who have stayed through thick and thin (46 years) and (43 years of One life). Yes I was there before vcr dvrs and the rag mags .
    Cartoon Valenti isn’t even covering up the lies he told before coming . He doesn’t give a RATS ASS for the General Hospital and its going to be destroyed on the back of our show. You watch one by one our g.h. characters will ldisappear and one lifers wil invade ponce more . if that happens canel the “ORIGINAL” G.H. let us have our swan song since one lifers had theirs and the bring back One life don’t try and merge 3 soaps in one because its the fans who lose. and for the record these 2 incredibly morons have no clue as to what General Hospital is and what it stood for all these years. They have destroyed . I call them soap killers .

    kimscharms55 replied August 23rd, 2012 at 8:35 am

    Angela, Calling people ignorant just show that you are the ignorant one. Posters are allowed their opinions and calling people names is just rude and wrong.G.H. has had 49 years of
    being a number 1 soap and yes at times it was a sleeper not all soaps are always going to be fantastic Jeez one Life sucked for many years starting with Dena Higley and ending up with Cartini ,.
    the only reason the ratings soared was because of Cancellation. so name calling posters is rude an insensitive . This is still free America.

    angela replied August 23rd, 2012 at 3:24 pm

    Kim you are right I probably should not have called her ignorant. But her whole post was surreal. I mean I felt as though she thought she was speaking about real people and not actors playing a role. Guza was brought in last July to turn things around and he fell flat. You can’t argue that. Everyone, myself included thought when abc brought him in last summer he would bring new life to the show. And yes JPP did work her magic. So did Glory Monty all those years ago. But it was time for her to move on. GH has always been the star in abc’s daytime lineup and I do feel that Cartini will make GH continue to shine. Also I too have been a loyal fan of all abc soaps (that have come and gone) since 1970. The “original GH”? The original GH centered around the hospital. There was no Luke and Laura, no mob and no Quartermaines. Just the Hardy’s, the Baldwins and Jessie Brewer and a few others. If we have learned one thing in all this is how flawed the rating system is. I for one don’t want GH to go anywhere, and I will continue to watch faithfully everyday as I hjave the past 42 years.

    Christy replied August 24th, 2012 at 5:34 pm

    Great post!!!! Love it!

  5. Debbie Harris says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:36 pm

    I like that by the intro being shorter we get more GH story! That is way more important than the intro to me.

    Reply

    SZima replied August 10th, 2012 at 5:55 am

    I agree Debbie. And it’s true…anyone who records the show (as I do) FF’s the intro anyway. I wouldn’t care if it was even shorter and showed none of the characters.
    I used to think I liked the previous opening because it showed the actors real/character names, but after watching it once, I never watched it again, so what’s the point?

    I wish primetime would take the hint! I understand those actors, being on only once a week, probably want their credit shown every week, but some of them are soooo long, they are just wasting time.

    Reply

  6. Christine says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:38 pm

    You know, I didn’t like the short opening the first couple of days, but now I find myself wanting to HEAR more of it. It is kind of futuristic and if you blink, you miss it. :-) I only fast-forwarded the opening sequence when they used those flashing lights because it triggered my migraines!!

    I think even if the opening was longer I would not fast-forward because it is edgy. I never fast-forward Y&R’s opening of Nadia’s Theme.

    As for the lighting, I have definitely noticed the changes. I could actually see Rebecca Herbst’s BLUE eyes at Kelly’s in her scenes with Jason the other day.

    And for stacking up against the competition, I only watch Y&R in addition to GH. I watch Y&R because it is mostly just every day drama with the exception of a big story climax like Ricky and Paul. But GH is like a little cliffhanger almost every day so I like that excitement for the end of my evening.

    The only thing I wonder about is the placement of GH come fall. I just saw out here in Los Angeles that ABC 7 intends to have it at 1 PM so I guess that will come after the news or is that The Chew (?) then after GH will be Dr. Oz and Katie following. They are literally stuck between a rock and a hard place. Dr. Oz is Sony’s baby and they seem very happy with his success and he has quite a following so people will tune in (hopefully they will also tune out after he is over), but The Chew is not great so hopefully the loyal soap fans will tune into GH at its new time. In other words, they do not have a very good lead-in. Well I guess fall will be their time to shine and prove themselves.

    Reply

  7. Brandy says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:43 pm

    I did miss the old starter, but he makes a valid point, that I often skipped it if I could. Never thought of it that way. I love stuff like the boxing scene because there was such real conversation instead of shoot em up bang bang

    Reply

  8. Karen says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:53 pm

    I always thought the new opening was great and couldn’t believe when people complained. I told them it’s the show that matters and not the opening. GH is just so good since Frank came on. Every day I can’t wait until the next episode. I have always watch GH through the good times and the bad but now it’s ALL GOOD. Thanks Frank

    Reply

    Judy replied August 9th, 2012 at 6:50 pm

    I couldn’t have said it any better, Karen. I totally agree with you!

    Reply

    Marci replied August 11th, 2012 at 6:25 pm

    I totally agree but would add Ron to also get credit for making our GH great again! RE: the opening, no opening could ever be worse than the guys in tuxedos opening. They kept it for so long that out of the 11 male characters shown there were only 4 left on the show before they finally changed it. (And, yes, I was so annoyed that I actually counted!). I prefer the shorter opening/more story time.

    Reply

  9. BTripp says:
    August 9, 2012 at 12:58 pm

    I’m used to it and actually like it. I want them to add Kirsten Storms though if they can. As far as his comment about other shows not being able to touch GH right now, I agree even though it sounds kinda vain.

    Reply

    SZima replied August 10th, 2012 at 5:57 am

    I don’t think it vain…he’s just proud. And for the most part, rightly so.

    Reply

  10. maggiejinx says:
    August 9, 2012 at 1:05 pm

    I like the new opening. Maybe at the end of the week they can list the actors. The show is really good I look forward to it. It hustles right along. He has blended the two shows seamlessly.

    Reply

    Judy replied August 9th, 2012 at 6:52 pm

    Well said, maggiejinx. I agree. He has blended the two shows seamlessly. I was skeptical at first, even though I loved both shows. Didn’t think it could be done. But Valentini/Carlivati have done an outstanding job.

    Reply

    gloria replied August 9th, 2012 at 7:33 pm

    Y’all are so right! Something about this new GH feels OLTLish-the lighting, the pacing, something. I just love it. When I walk thru the room & look up & see Starr & Todd, I just die! I feel like I am watching OLTL. Today when they were talking about Natalie, Liam, Viki, Blair, it just helped me to hear their names. I look forward to GH every day now & not just because of the OLTL actors. It is just plain BETTER.

    aria replied August 14th, 2012 at 11:02 pm

    Judy,maggiejinx,and gloria, your all so right, Ron and Frank have seamlessly blended all the bad of GH with all the bad of OLTL,still more sonny and jason and sam, now mix in with with the cheesyness of horrible new opening, hundreds of flashbacks, and recycled OLTL storylines. I was skeptical to and didn’t think it could be done, but wow, it has, so now we have the worst of both shows.

  11. Doug says:
    August 9, 2012 at 1:14 pm

    The show has greatly improved-it was virtually unwatchable last year. I love the OLTL characters and wish they would try to bring Erika Slezak, Andrea Evans or maybe Kim Zimmer as Echo over for some storylines. AND PLEASE BRING ON KASSIE AS BLAIR AND FLORENCIA AS TEA PERMANENTLY!!!!!!!! The pace is faster and I actually look forward to the show. THANKS FRANK AND RON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My only problem is the baby switch thing is a bit tired and I hate the fact that GH is going to be on at the same time as DAYS in Los Angeles. I will watch GH online.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 9th, 2012 at 5:02 pm

    I agree what you said about OLTL characters .. More of them on GH.. Love Erika Slezak She is my #1 favorite from OLTL….And I would like to see Roxie, GiGI , Rex…………………………….I Like GH better now than from 1-2 years ago….

    Reply

    Doug replied August 9th, 2012 at 5:50 pm

    Yes-I’d love to see the Balsoms including Roxie join GH or at least visit! I’d also like to see Bobbie Spencer RN. return to the show. Today’s show was great as well!!!

    Lynn A replied August 10th, 2012 at 7:11 am

    I totally disagree with bringing on more OLTL characters! I do love that Todd and John are there, could possibly do w/o Starr, but the cast is big enough and the GH cast has history to build on, we don’t need more newbies! I hate when people think they’ve blended the two soaps seemlessly, they only brought 3 characters over, that’s hardly blending both soaps! I have noticed the lighting and do think it makes the show much more modern! Thank you Frank for bringing the show to the 21st century!

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 1:49 pm

    If the shoe was on the other foot. It woudn’t bother me in the least…I like seeing OLTL characters on GH..OLTL was my favorite soap and I still miss it & enjoy seeing them on GH… They are not quite blended..Did you watch OLTL ever??????? It will be my #1 favorite soap on or not…

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 4:20 pm

    You should be happy you still have your favorite soap GH ..Mine is gone(OLTL).. This is for comment on 7/10 at 7:11am…

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 4:21 pm

    Gh is my second favorite soap…

  12. Velvet says:
    August 9, 2012 at 1:14 pm

    I love the new opening and I love GH. I was never a fan of GH but when OLTL went off, I need to watch something and I wanted to support GH (even if I despise ABC for taking the soaps off the air). I love that the show incorporated OLTL characters and I am excited to continue to get to know and grow with the GH characters as well!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 9th, 2012 at 5:03 pm

    I will support GH…….I agree w/everything else you said…………

    Reply

  13. Tiffany says:
    August 9, 2012 at 1:21 pm

    The direction with GH ..loving it !! I dont understand Ewen ..but I think either a he is Jerry’s kid or b just caught up in something . Sam and Jason , the baby ? Oh I think Tea should be on the show full time along with Blair !! Oh and I think once Johnny’s secrets come out ..push Cary towards Todd . Shaun and Alexis .. steamy !! Oh and Joe Jr , Trey , and Kate/Connie GREAT JOb on that storyline . If anyone is ganna figure out what Dr Ewen has been doing it will be Empathy !! Also, Natalie needs to be on GH too .. I can see a nice exchange of words with Sam . Faithfully … Tiffany Brenna Evans Stamps Wiley Peace Love and Happiness

    Reply

    Vanessa replied August 9th, 2012 at 5:35 pm

    I am really! really! trying to support GH especially since they brought over OLTL characters. I like the shorter opening and I also like the previews at the end. I am concerned about the way FV and RC are changing the history of OLTL. First of all, they get rid of Cole and Hope and then they have totally changed Natalie’s character. She would never take off like she did and never get restraining orders on John. She would be in PC kicking Sams … I am really disappointed with that so I don’t know if I will keep watching or not. If they are going to put John and Sam together, than just do it already!! I just hate to see so many years of good OLTL history go down.

    Reply

  14. MEG says:
    August 9, 2012 at 1:30 pm

    GH is back and I am watching live (ok, listening while at work and watching DVD-R later) … which I have not done in a long while…. it is just getting better and better! Love the new blood and new twists and turns. It is one of the best shows on television and at 5 hours a week, with no season breaks, it is addictive!

    Reply

  15. Christy says:
    August 9, 2012 at 1:47 pm

    i’ve never watched anything but ABC soaps, so can’t do any comparison to the other shows, but can compare it to GH from years ago. The show has really been reved up! I really like the quickened pace, more script pages done per show is great. Many times I’ll be watching and it’s really going great and I worry that it’s about over and check the time on the DVD and it’s usually at the half way mark, so plenty more good show to watch. In the old days it didn’t seem like much had happened and then it was over — they used to drag stories out way too long. I have noticed the better lighting and extended sets on the hospital and added touches, like to the police station – plaques on the wall, stuff on desks – makes it look more like an office, rather than an inexpensive set.

    I don’t mind the shorter opening – I like the look and music. It’s fine cuz I still fast forward thru it because it’s followed by a few commercials rather than the show. I’ve noticed they (ABC) had shortened the commercials, probably to cram more in to pay for the show.

    speaking of the sets – did you all notice that John & Natalie’s place seemed to be the old webber/scorpio residence with the dark woodwork painted white? guess Mac and Felcia are living elsewhere these days! :-)

    the boxing scene – didn’t notice any special HD type of look to it. Isn’t that usually better for larger, deeper sets or outside shots? But it was funny when Trey said ‘bring it’” and Sonny just nonchalantly knocked him out. that was funny.

    Reply

  16. Rod says:
    August 9, 2012 at 1:59 pm

    I disagree with him About the opening. I don’t FF abd it gets me going & excited ! It’s our theme song! Cut out the lame previews than cause those are stupid
    MUSS MY GH THEME SONG & OPENING

    Reply

  17. ricardo says:
    August 9, 2012 at 2:06 pm

    frank valentini is doing a wonderful job on general hospital. he saved general hospital from being cancelled. please frank keep up the good work. i heard a big rumour that bobbie spencer jackie zeman will be coming back to general hospital very soon. hopefully its true. i miss her so much. frank valentini is one hot man. very good looking guy. always had a crush on him.

    Reply

  18. MikeT says:
    August 9, 2012 at 2:11 pm

    GH is sooo much better than it was 6 months ago !The additions of Todd,Heather,McBane and Anna are great !!I hope they all stay on the show permanantly and keep stiring thing up as they have been.Robin Mattson has really stood out with emmy worthy performances !!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:47 am

    DITTO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply

  19. jerrica says:
    August 9, 2012 at 2:26 pm

    im hooked right now..i want Natalie and Liam to show up tho!!!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 9th, 2012 at 5:08 pm

    I don’t know if that is going to happen now after what Todd did by sending Natalie the photo of John kissing Sam……John left for Llanview to see Liam…Natalie won’t let John see him now & she took his paassport to boot….I want them to kiss & make-up…..John forgave her now she should forgive John..

    Reply

  20. Jen says:
    August 9, 2012 at 2:31 pm

    I like the new opening. The last one always seemed off to me. The lighting was strange, and the actors seemed stiff. So far, I am really happy with the changes being made, the whole show has a much better look and feel to it. Everyone seems much more relaxed. And the characters from OLTL have fit in perfectly.

    I have to admit though, watching Heather Webber drive Todd Manning nuts is my favorite interaction on the show. They have amazing chemistry! But things won’t be right until Natalie comes to Port Charles and pays Sam a visit regarding that kiss with John. Natalie was never one to suffer in silence.

    Keep doing what you’re doing Mr. Valentini. GH hasn’t been this good in a long time! I am loving the nearly daily cliffhangers… they aren’t just for Friday anymore! It’s a great move making me look forward to each day’s episode. :) The humor is great too… Crazy Calling. Crazy Calling. Crazy Calling! You must create more weird Manning ringtones. :)

    Reply

    Lynn A replied August 10th, 2012 at 7:17 am

    I couldn’t agree more with the Crazy Calling statement! I always loved Todd and his humor on the show is much needed! The little digs he gets in are always great and have me laughing every day he’s on!

    Reply

    Kimberly replied August 10th, 2012 at 5:56 pm

    I want that “Crazy Calling” ringtone they could make a FORTUNE if they sold it!!!

    aria replied August 14th, 2012 at 11:37 pm

    didn’t natalie cheat on john with her sister boyfriend? she’s not exactly miss innocent.

    Reply

  21. James says:
    August 9, 2012 at 2:35 pm

    GH’s theme was it’s identity. Valentini took it away and inserted some intergalactic sounding jingle. Look at Dallas on TNT. The same opening and it felt just like being back on Southfork after all these years. I don’t need 20 seconds of show in place of an opening. If he wanted to shorten it give us a bumper type opening by the GH song. Like he said himself, GH is a brand!!! I hate it more on a daily basis.

    Reply

    aria replied August 9th, 2012 at 5:14 pm

    james i agree with you, dallas reference was a great expample, but i don’t think he gets it.

    Reply

    Sue replied August 9th, 2012 at 7:29 pm

    I’m with you guys. Who are they kidding when they say they did it to get more GH. They’re gaining ad time. It’s a non-opening to me. Bring back the ambulance opening! That’s -General Hospital is on!

    dg replied August 9th, 2012 at 8:17 pm

    I agree. And my beef is that they removed the show’s signature- The LA County Med Center that has been there since the 60s!

    To me that building is General Hospital and I started watching in 1969! The majority of the history and and constancy has been gutted from this show and that’s death to a soap opera. The Dallas reboot seamlessly honors history while moving forward with a strong new generation.
    GH doesnt even seem anything like the same show. I hate it as well. I also hate Cartini’s dumbed down, so called “fun” stories. They are lame and insulting to viewer intelligence much like the garbage they slung on OLTL. SMH.

    Reply

    Christi replied August 9th, 2012 at 10:15 pm

    I miss the way before the intro came on we would hear the beginning of the music.. it had this intensity to it.. this new “music” is just strange, not intense at all.. just no emotion to it at all. I like your description… “intergalactic jingle ” and I totally agree, shorten it or keep the old intro.. although I’m more upset about the lighting, background music and almost all script writers being replaced with OLTL.. esp when our GH ones were so much better!!!!! Wasn’t minding RC/FV when Cates and the old light crew and the old script writers were there, but now I really miss the old GH…. I am can’t believe that FV has done all this. He really needs to get Cates back and the old light crew back.. be humble, admit his mistakes.. and bring back some of the old script writers too.

    Reply

    Trisha replied August 11th, 2012 at 2:40 pm

    IA…They could have left a bit of the GH theme that is recognized. What would the harm in that be? This one represents nothing.

    Reply

  22. the brother says:
    August 9, 2012 at 2:49 pm

    the new opening is garbage. in the faster-paced soap world, his stories need to evolve sooner (like Sam having a a baby in under 6 mos, new Xtina, etc)…and by the way, there are way too many back burner/filler characters on this friggen soap! we need to lose Mike-Starr, Mac-Felicia (until Frisco swoops in), Shawn-Lex, and most of all Elizabeth…holy crap is she ever a waste of a soap contract. sweep these ppl under the rug or pretend they never existed and get Scorpio back asap. He and Luke and Holly and Anna need to go on an adventure this fall. It would be awesome if the story was tied to a Frisco rescue and somehow Mac got killed off by Faison.

    let’s not drag out the Robin is now a memory-less mental patient until November, ok? move a long Jerry Jax….you’re boring already.

    Reply

    aria replied August 9th, 2012 at 5:12 pm

    yeah, lets not make you a GH consultant any time, your ideas suck brother!

    Reply

    Lynn A replied August 10th, 2012 at 7:19 am

    Agreed, Aria! He wants characters that haven’t been around since the 90s, and lose characters that are relevent today?! Makes no sense! I liked Felicia and Frisco too, but have you seen the two of them lately? Botox has not been their friend!

    dg replied August 9th, 2012 at 8:13 pm

    I think you would make a great story consultant. GH desperately needs an adventure story. But on the contrary I love Becky Herbst as Liz. And dont hold your breath for a quick resolution to the Robin story. Kim has a new job with a direction fellowship so she cant make long term commitments to GH.
    So I predict she will be missing for quite a while.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:56 am

    What wrong with Mike-Starr,Mac & Felicia… What do you mean burner-filler characters???? I like scorpio…. Don’t agree on GH storyline & what charcters they should ex-off in your comments………

    Reply

    Jeanne replied August 11th, 2012 at 6:12 am

    You’re living in the past, my friend! I loved all those people too but that was the 80″s! I’m so glad Anna is around and Heather is a riot! You have to bring in the new without completely forgetting about the old. That’s what makes these soaps so great–the history of almost 50 years!

    Reply

  23. Barb Harnedy says:
    August 9, 2012 at 3:36 pm

    Now that I know that the extra time due to a shorter opening will mean more scenes in the actual show (less cut out scenes), then I’m all for it!! I’m really liking the faster pace and the quick cutting back and forth between scenes….it keeps us viewers on our toes for sure!! I’m hoping for some actual happy and funny scenes coming up now that Lulu will be telling Dante that she’s pregnant!! Can’t wait!!! Thank you Frank and Ron!!!

    Reply

  24. Gloria E says:
    August 9, 2012 at 4:10 pm

    I think the new opening is very cutting edge & makes GH look so much more sophisticated than the other soaps still left on the air..I have been watching since I was a kid (used to watch with my mom Jessie & Phil Brewer & Audrey & Steve Hardy)…but like all things newer isn’t always better but in this case definately…before they took over I could hardly watch with all that MOB garbage..Frank & Ron are awesome..keep up the good work I luv watching GH…Luv, luv, luv Todd on GH even better than I liked him on OLTL & I am a big Roger Horwarth fan..he makes Sonny & Johnny look better..the faster pace is what is really needed if soaps are going to survive (the only problem I have will be a baby switch lingering too long)…I have never been a Jason fan so let him have Liz..they are both icky..Sam deserves better..& yes more humor too!! I luv it..can’t wait to watch every day now..& Frank & Ron are both cute!!! doesn’t hurt..

    Reply

  25. Rick says:
    August 9, 2012 at 4:29 pm

    The new opening is AWFUL, and I can’t believe anyone likes it.

    It’s too short to make any impact, and it moves too fast. There’s no respect for any actor, who whizzes by you so fast it’s ridiculous.

    Valentini’s claim that we now get “more story,” is crap. You mean those two extra lines of dialogue we get? Or that longing look from one character to another? Or that flashback scene? More than likely, ad time has been bumped up. I’d respect Valentini more if he said “We want to stay on the air, so it was all about making ABC a few extra bucks.”

    A good opening DOES brand a show. It was great seeing that full-blown DALLAS open every week. Check other cable shows. I know that HBO doesn’t have ads, but the open for THE NEWSROOM sets the tone for the show. Then there’s BOARDWALK EMPIRE. On AMC we get MAD MEN and THE KILLING. Cable seems to realize the importance of show openings, even if the major networks don’t.

    Reply

    Christine replied August 9th, 2012 at 7:13 pm

    Rick, I agree with much of what you say even though I do not think the opening is “awful.” :-)

    As I write this I am sitting here having a quick dinner with my children while we listen to one of my old CDs of classic TV themes. It isn’t just visual openings that are missing these days, but musical ones (like Perry Mason). I know that cable gets it. Mad Men is a perfect example. My husband recently turned me onto Game of Thrones and that is another one beautifully done.

    It’s sad because people used to get awards for these openings, but it is just another job that is being taken away. At least CBS stayed somewhat true to Hawaii 5-0 and kept its beautiful song and even the Ilikai. Being a product of the 70s and watching Dallas and Falcon Crest with my folks, those beautiful openings and themes still stick with me (especially FC) to this day.

    I think the lack of openings is par for the course. Nobody has time for anything these days so why an opening? Heck people can’t even have a face to face conversation because they are busy texting. It is sad. I wish Hollywood would slow down, go back to the grinding stone and pump out some NEW ideas, and really showcase their product like cable does. At least Y&R has Nadia’s Theme. People will say what they will (still waiting for the new alleged opening), but I could care less if they NEVER change it because I think it is beautiful and timeless.

    Reply

    David replied August 9th, 2012 at 9:49 pm

    I totally agree the opening is awful :)

    The need to take a hint from primetime openings like Dexter, Game of Thrones, & The Newsroom. Those opening set how the show is gonna be but GH, unfortunately doesn’t.

    Reply

  26. Wendy says:
    August 9, 2012 at 4:41 pm

    What about bringing some AMC characters on GH? Certainly David Heywood would fit seemlessly into the present landscape. That would make us AMC fans happy. Valentino is too OLTL-centric since he was its EP. It’s a little off putting, although I will continue to support GH, as I have for going on 50 years.

    Reply

    Christine replied August 9th, 2012 at 6:57 pm

    I don’t think it is all that black and white as Valentini being too, as you said “OLTL-centric,” but more having to do with waiting for the rights to revert back to ABC since Prospect Park messed things up for
    ANY future for AMC.

    Keep the faith. :-) I agree that you could start with David Hayward (since he has history with Anna) and build on that, but then remember all that adding from other, defunct shows will make others unhappy. They have a tremendous job to do and you just can’t make everyone happy, but finding some middle ground is a good start.

    Reply

    Wendy replied August 12th, 2012 at 9:39 pm

    Not sure what you are talking about re: Prospect Park and AMC since PP had the same deal with OLTL Nd that hasn’t stopped GH from bringing those characters on. Valentina is OLTL-centric because it was a show he worked on and he is familiar with the characters. All I am saying is that AMC is the other ABC soap which was recently cancelled and bringing on appropriate characters from it would draw in former viewers. I do not advocate bringing on characters from other network’s defunct shows–there is, however, a strong history of crossover characters between all three ABC soaps which would be beneficial for all to continue and enhance. Valentini’s immediate bringing over OLTL characters demonstrates his loyalty to that show and his lack of affinity to AMC by virtue of his past association with OLTL.

    dg replied August 9th, 2012 at 8:09 pm

    Get a grip ppl this is General Hospital. It is not a homeless shelter for displaced characters from cancelled soaps.
    They dont have the budget for all that and it is taking even more away from the already watered down history of this Iconic show.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 11th, 2012 at 1:56 pm

    Be glad we still have a soap to watch….Displaced characters from cancelled soaps like OLTL is bringing in more viewers for Gh….What’s wrong with that???? dg PLEASE READ Angela’s comments on 7/10 at 6:27am….She made alot of good points….

    Wendy replied August 12th, 2012 at 9:44 pm

    See my comment above. Characters have historically visited/crossed over between Pine Valley, Llanview and Port Charles throuout the years. That’s a fact. I am not advocating a “homeless shelter” but a continuation of that tradition from each of the two ABC soaps, not just OLTL.

    susan M. replied August 13th, 2012 at 2:01 pm

    I wouldn’ t mind seeing crossovers from AMC….Adam Chandler…But I am a OLTL fan thew in threw…………..

    aria replied August 14th, 2012 at 11:43 pm

    DG, lol, that was funny, good point though.

    SZima replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:05 am

    I agree with you about the AMC characters. Where are they? So many would work well on GH. Seems like Y&R is the only one who has picked-up AMC actors, but then gone and misused and abused them!

    Reply

  27. Cindy says:
    August 9, 2012 at 4:54 pm

    GH is now crap thanks to RC and FV! It was bad for years, but it’s been made worse now. They should just name it One Life to Live and be done it.

    Reply

    dg replied August 9th, 2012 at 8:07 pm

    Thank you Cindy. I hardly recognize the show anymore. And I watched for over 42 yrs now since I was a small child. I hate it now.

    Reply

    kimscharms55 replied August 10th, 2012 at 12:53 pm

    After 46 years as a G.h. fan long before soap rags,vcrs and dvrs . I watched faithfully taking night jobs (graveyards) so I could watch my soaps I also was 43 year fan of O.L.T.L. and when these 2 came on it went to total destruction. Which I blame these Cartoon hacks . As for G.h. total and utter destruction to the opening to the music and the scripts are re runned from One life to live. And as a Carly fan being insulted that Kate is now the “greatest” sonny love? please utter crap . You have have not only insulted Carly fans but Brenda fans as well. And yes this is still America and I have a right to complain when I see my favorite soap in the toilet . And adding The “LIFERS” please . One Life to live rides again on the backs of the General Hospital cast .So I quit watching ad its a shame . Thanks aloot Valenti and Carvileti for taking a good soap for almost 50 years and ruining it. You ruined One life so now ruin G.H. too.

    susan M. replied August 11th, 2012 at 2:12 pm

    Again READ Angela’s COMMENTS on7/10 at 6:27am……I am getting a bit tired of hearing about OLTL and how they are hurting GH!!!!!!! Gh isn’t going in the toilet…They didn’t ruin OLTL you have Brian Frons is the one who chopped & cancelled OLTL …………………And arent ruining GH either…I was a fan of OLTL was my favorite soap of all..Gh is second…Again be glad you still have a soap to watch….AGAIN, PLEASE READ ANGELA”S COMMENTS ON 7/10 AT 6:27A.M……………………………She made a lot of GOOD POINTS…

    SZima replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:05 am

    Quit watching.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 7:14 am

    If it weren’t for RC & FV , Gh would have been canceled months ago….It’s improved a lot from about 1-2 years ago………………..I am a fan of OLTL & always will be on or not…..I like seeing the crossovers of OLTL on GH…It isn’t interferring with the GH at all in fact it is turning it around…..I just recentely started watching GH again since the crossovers started to come on GH…..Didn’t care for it in the past.Too many mob oriented stories for me….But GH is defintely on the right track since RC & FV has been doing the writing on GH…..It got extented for a year & maybe a whole lot longer…..GH shoudn’t be called OLTL ..They are two competely different soaps…..

    Reply

  28. su0000 says:
    August 9, 2012 at 4:57 pm

    I like the look and the feel of the new opening, it is modern ..
    I like sooooo much about GH.
    The past 6 months under FV and RC have given new life to GH!!!
    I do see a future for GH and hope FV and RC keep on keeping on!!!

    Reply

  29. Susan says:
    August 9, 2012 at 4:59 pm

    I guess I may be in the minority but I never cared one way or the other about the opening….I guess I am way more focused on the show itself and wanting the show saved. Being overly upset about the opening just seems silly to me. Anyway, I have noticed the lightening and love the change. More importantly, I LOVE the entire show again! Like others have said, to me the show had become pretty much unwatchable before FV / RC took over…what a difference a couple months has made. Love the OLTL transplant characters and the fresh and new storylines being done with them and the other GH cast memebers. So much to love it is hard to list it all. Standouts for me are the John Mcbain & Sam budding romance ( So glad they have finally moved forward and away from Jasam), Love Anna being back and made commish, crazy Heather; TODD, OMG just love Todd, and the list just keeps going. Would love to see Kassie / Blair on more, but other than that I would rather see additonal GH vets back before more transplants from other soaps. Anyway, FV and RC are doing an amazing job and it is much appreciated!

    Reply

    Ann replied August 10th, 2012 at 5:01 am

    AGREED. FV/RC have done an amazing job turning around this show around, and I am thankful for it. I didn’t see the costumes mentioned above, but that’s another of the small, positive change, in addition to the lightening. The only draw back is hair and make-up, which I’m sure will be addressed. One phrase to describe both — too much product.

    I am with you about GH vets ONLY coming back to GH, and I thank FV wholeheartedly for getting IR/Jax back and KS returning. I was very open to the OLTL characters joining GH, and Todd is one of my favorite characters. But now I am most certainly closed to that idea. The controversy over Natalie/MA has soured any welcoming I may have had for OLTL characters.

    Reply

  30. aria says:
    August 9, 2012 at 5:11 pm

    why not play the opening with the cast getting credited on monday and all other days not show it, i would go for that. and as for Gh being untouchable and bether then the other shows, well i kinda agree, but GH is unique and to make it to much like OLTL will make it the passion of daytime, and as i recall, passion wasn’t exactly big at the EMMY”s so, theres got to be a good balance, less cartoony and more high class drama.

    Reply

    dg replied August 9th, 2012 at 8:05 pm

    Thank God someone realizes that Cartini have really dumbed down daytime drama. These were shows that started out as ground breaking family dramas driven by social issues and dare i say it moral values.

    Before Cartini One Life it’s self broke racial diversity ground in daytime. They broke new ground with gay issues, the explored sexual addiction and prostitution. After Cartini it became the haven of over the top cartoonish villains, slapstick comedy, ridiculous split personality plots, etc. I dont want to see that happen to GH .
    GH has enough of that in the later 80s. By the 90s the came back to good family driven, real life stories- Stone’s + Robin’s aids, Monica’s breast cancer, BJ’s heart transplant. I guess those days are gone. SMH.

    Reply

  31. brian says:
    August 9, 2012 at 5:14 pm

    This OLTL fan is now totally hook on GH. I wish everyone could be happy… and say positive things right now. I truly want to be watching GH for many more years to come. This can only come thru fan support. I’d figure everyone would be happier with more show, less opening.

    Reply

    dg replied August 9th, 2012 at 7:58 pm

    You wouldnt feel that way if the situation were reversed,
    I’ve watched GH for over 42 yrs now. And I watched One Life off and on for the last 36 yrs.
    I personally dont like Cartini ( Frank V and Ron C’s) take on soaps. If you do thats you opinion and you have a right to it. But every day GH looks less and less like the show that I grew up loving.
    Cartini have brought their signature cartoonish style to GH and it sucks.
    Cosmetically the show looks great and that includes the opening. But the show’s history has been bled dry and the current stories are vacuous and implausible. So no everyone is not happy.

    Reply

    Brian replied August 10th, 2012 at 9:37 am

    Thanks… I understand your comments as well… my point is that with all the negative comments, it would seem that some would be happier if GH was cancelled, I, would not.

    Kimberly replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:03 pm

    I think GH looks more like the soap that I USED to watched 15 years ago before it became MOB Hospital. I remember the compelling storylines, the amazing couples, the passion. Once the MOB element overran Port Charles I turned elsewhere for my soap enjoyment. So I for one have been THRILLED with the change in regime at GH and look forward to many more years. As far as the stories being “implausible” you are watching a soap opera.

    susan M. replied August 11th, 2012 at 2:30 pm

    BE HAPPY YOU STILL HAVE A SOAP TO WATCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We need to be more positive than negative….If it weren’t for Fv &RC Gh wouldn’t still be on..I know no one wants that to happen…GH survived you should be happy!!! I remember Gh years ago when I watched it with my mom & it was in B&W….There was romance like you said …..Times change,….For comments4 on 7/9 at 7:58P. M……Dr. Hardy days are gone….Those were the good old days…All those charcters from that era are probably gone….That was a long time ago..

  32. Terry says:
    August 9, 2012 at 5:20 pm

    So a short opening gets us, what, 25 more seconds of dialog?

    The opening was likely being skipped because most people hated it. I bet there was a lot less skipping with ‘Faces of the Heart’.

    Overall, I love the new GH though. I hope the Buchanans blow into town though!

    Reply

    Brian replied August 10th, 2012 at 5:18 am

    Yes ! Bring on the Buchanans !

    Reply

  33. Jan says:
    August 9, 2012 at 5:24 pm

    nicer more alive.

    Reply

  34. Lynn says:
    August 9, 2012 at 5:48 pm

    The shorter opening is awful and they used posed pics, which makes the show look cheap

    Reply

  35. Sheryl Postin says:
    August 9, 2012 at 5:57 pm

    Gh is fantastic but, could be better if more characters were added from OLTL.

    Reply

    dg replied August 9th, 2012 at 7:54 pm

    You One lifers will be the death of GH, mark my words. And then none of us will have anything left to watch. Cartini is doing a hatchet job on Gh’s history and they will reap their reward.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 11th, 2012 at 2:33 pm

    I don’t aYougree………..OLTL is bringing life to GH….MORE VIEWERS FOR GH !!!! You should be glad you can still watch GH!!!!!!!!!!!

    MissEllie replied August 10th, 2012 at 5:21 am

    The more you add, the less story for everyone else. There are too many people on this show as it is!

    Reply

    SZima replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:08 am

    NO, NO, NO more OLTL characters. This is GH, not OLTL, and we don’t need any more invasions from that show. I’d much rather see a couple characters from AMC.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 11th, 2012 at 2:40 pm

    Yes more OLTL the more yhe MERRIER!!!!! Will draw more viewers to watch GH…..I prefer OLTL my favorite soap on or not.es GH isn’t no OLTL for sure it is totally different I know that for sure…

    Wendy replied August 12th, 2012 at 9:49 pm

    I agree. AMC characters would fit seamlessly.

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 7:16 am

    DITTO!!!!!!!! A few more wouldn’t hurt………………

    Reply

  36. Jared says:
    August 9, 2012 at 6:01 pm

    I used to fast forward through the old opening, because the music and visuals were obnoxious. The new opening is growing on me, but it’s too short. I think people would enjoy a nice opening, especially like the “Faces of the Heart” opening of the 90′s. I don’t remember ever fast-forwarding through that.

    I am looking forward to more elements of ONE LIFE TO LIVE being inserted into GH.

    Reply

    dg replied August 9th, 2012 at 7:53 pm

    The more that Cartini push their agenda to continue One Life the more GH fans they piss off like me and the lower the ratings go.
    That BS is not going to work for the simple reason that it’s not a cross over its an obvious attempt to continue One Life’s stories on GH.
    And GH fans who didnt watch One Life resent that.
    I watched One Life and I still resent it because GH deserves the same kind of reboot that One Life got before it was canned. GH never got that and doesnt have it today. GH’s true history has still been neglected. The show has practically no links to its venerable past.
    The classic characters who still exist are being misused. SMH.

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 1:41 pm

    If it were the other way around and OLTL was still on & Gh was crossover’s on OLTL.. It wouldn’t bother me at all..I don’t see nothing wrong with Gh stories..Oltl stories on GH?? It doesn’t bother me in the least and it is only a touch of that happening. It’s still manly GH stories w/ more revenge mob stories with Sonny & Joe….Well I stopped watching GH for quite a while because I lost interest…Because of the mob/gangster stories..Years ago GH never had those kind of stories…When Dr.Hardy,Lucille,Audrey,etc.. Not in that era no gangster stories..That’s when GH was at it’s very best.I watched it w/my mom….Again I have no complaints about OLTL crossovers or the storyline…

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 7:18 am

    I am looking forward also in seeing more elements of OLTL inserted in GH also!!!

    Reply

    Wendy replied August 12th, 2012 at 9:51 pm

    No. Any characters brought to GH (and there should be one or two AMC ones) should have to take on elements of GH, not the other way around. The name of this show is General Hospital, not OLTL.

  37. MCBAMJASAM says:
    August 9, 2012 at 6:12 pm

    Trying to make us believe John and Sam is awful!!!

    Jason and Sam got a child, and this writing been going strong since

    that dreadful Franco mess….I don’t get the writers, this writing is

    gonna bring new customers or new ratings!!!….Give me a break!!

    I’m trying to wrap my head around this mess!!!!

    And you going to do Liarsions again omg!!

    and John and Sam have no connections

    Michael Easton is a good actor….But JASAM have been through hell!!!

    the writing in my opinion……TO FORCED!!!

    John has woman
    Jason has a woman

    Jason with Sam +Baby

    I understand Michael Easton is your favorite….

    But Come ON!!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 7:25 am

    Michael Easton & Natalie, Sam & Jason.. When she played Livy years ago With Easton as Caleb…They had that connection..Remember what they said when John first met Sam: Do i know you from somewhere??? But I want Natalie & John together..I Natalie can forgive John……

    Reply

    MCBAMJASAM replied August 12th, 2012 at 7:19 am

    Yes I Wouldn’t mind if Natalie could come to GH..

    It would free up John… And I Think it bring another layer

    to the show….

    Far as Jason & Sam is concern the first thing they should do

    is, Jason should suprise Sam with a house, it may cause some

    friction and make Sam think that Jason is calling all the shots on

    their ‘reuniting”, which (Can be funny if it was written right!!!!!)

    susan M. replied August 12th, 2012 at 11:39 am

    Wait till Sam finds out her baby is alive !!!!!! And it is Jason’s baby…Then Sam & Jason will finally get back together….Right now they are on the outs…She blame’s him fot the lost of her baby….I wonder how Sam finding out her baby is alive will pan out???????? I hope she finds out soon before it’s too late…Will Todd tell her???????????? Or continue to keep it under wraps because of Heather who is black mailing him….Will Todd risk it all & tell Sam the truth???

  38. BarbJ says:
    August 9, 2012 at 6:17 pm

    Did he really say the word ‘fast-forward’!! Does this mean that the idiot ABC bigwigs now admit that there are soap fans that are not counted in their stupid rating system!!!!!! Bring back OLTL!!!!!!!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 10th, 2012 at 7:26 am

    DITTO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply

  39. MCBAMJASAM says:
    August 9, 2012 at 6:33 pm

    There is post on Soapcentral…..In regard to JASAM…

    I firmy disagree with the OP….

    I dont feel that Jasam is contrive!!

    Reply

  40. Stephanie says:
    August 9, 2012 at 6:58 pm

    I’m all for the EP supporting his show, but saying no other show can touch GH right now is a bit arrogant, considering GH goes between 3rd and 4th in the ratings. But that’s a biased opinion on my part, because the only soap I watch is Days! I think execs from all shows should support the Genre, considering there are only 4 left on daytime.

    Reply

  41. GHFan says:
    August 9, 2012 at 7:01 pm

    I have been watching GH for over 35 yrs and I love it … I love Dante and Lulu. The story lines are great and Todd is the comic of the show

    Reply

  42. dg says:
    August 9, 2012 at 7:49 pm

    I am all for quickening the pace and giving the show a modern look. But as a 42 yr viewer of GH I still mourn the show’s signature building-The LA County Med Center in the opening. Phasing that out wasnt necessary. As for the “wealth of story” give me a freaking break! Valentini is watching a different show that the rest of us.
    Kate/Connie- the worst D.I.D. story I’ve seen on soaps with the most inept actress Kelly Sullivan. On the flip side of that we have her lackluster romance with the still over exposed Sonny- I’ll pass.
    Moving on we have Heather the Looney tunes keystone villain with her fingers in everyone’s pie. Robin Mattson is a fabulous scene stealer, but her story is a bit much and has very little to do with the true history of the character. The obsession with Luke was very silly. I wont even dignify the Friday The 13th Jason mask twist. That was one of the stupidest things I’ve seen on TV since Casey the Alien and his glowing Crystal.

    The Jasam baby switch was predictable and about as compelling as watching paint dry.
    Anthony’s patricide was ruined by Heather in her Morton Salt/Gorton’s fisherman outfit, burying him. And that was preceded by the ridiculous weekend at Bernie’s homage.
    Cartini have turned GH into a three ring circus cartoon just like they did One Life to Live.

    Many are singing their praises but I’m here to turn off the karaoke microphone. Just like the regime before them they continue to worship the big 4 actors – Maurice Bernard, Steve Burton, Kelly Monaco and Laura Wright. They’ve given nothing but lip service to the true core history of this show. The Quartermaines are languishing on the back burner as always. The Baldwins, The Webbers, Kevin, Lucy, ect have been completely forgotten in favor of talentless younger newbies ( hello new Christina, Trey, Nathan Butler ( Ewen),) and One Lifers.
    The incomparable Finola Hughes is back as Anna but in a lame triangle with geriatric Tony Geary and matronly frump Jane Elliot? Spare us! Anna spent the 80s defusing bombs, battling master criminals. So she deserves a much better love life. And Jane Elliot is a gifted actress who has no chemistry with Geary and was GH’s classic house bitch. That is her niche and that’s where she belongs today. She fails miserably as a romantic foible for the well preserved uber Milf Finola!

    And finally Cartini is now ruining the one story they did right- Robin’s disappearance. GH doesnt need another round of Jerry Jax! I give that a big fat yawn! This story was ripe for the return of Brian Patrick Clarke as the sinister Grant Putnam or Anna’s arch enemy and former DVX mentor Faison ( Anders Hove). Instead we get a rerun of the wayward Jax brother sociopath. Some imagination!

    As far as no other soap touching GH, Valentini’s arrogance is showing. The 3 remaining soaps are in complete and utter disarray now. NBC spend millions of dollars to reboot Days, but disappointed the audience by repeating the same worn out plots from 20yrs ago with their newly rehired vets so of course they are floundering in ratings.
    The venerable YR is so far off track that they dared to pair Sharon Case with Eric Braeden and they have no idea how to properly utilize the ultra talented actors they snatched from ABC, so for the first time in yrs YR is floundering.
    And the Bold and Beautiful has become the Steffy, Liam, Hope show. So really there isnt much competition anyway. Ironically Valentini’s comments are quite like all the fans who are raving over his leadership at GH as compared to that of Guza, Frons and Phelps. It’s all very lame. To a man dying of thirst, room temperature tap water is like Perrier!

    Reply

    Christine replied August 10th, 2012 at 12:17 pm

    “And finally Cartini is now ruining the one story they did right- Robin’s disappearance. GH doesnt need another round of Jerry Jax! I give that a big fat yawn! This story was ripe for the return of Brian Patrick Clarke as the sinister Grant Putnam or Anna’s arch enemy and former DVX mentor Faison ( Anders Hove). Instead we get a rerun of the wayward Jax brother sociopath. Some imagination! ”

    All valid points and excellent examples, dg, but I would not give up hope regarding Faison because I think he is still in play. I think he is probably giving orders to Jerry. Obviously Jerry is dying and is taking his orders from someone else. I do not think that “Cartini” are just going to leave it at that given how they had Cole recite the whole Ice Princess story to Starr months back. I firmly believe that Helena is involved in this as well as others from GENERAL HOSPITAL’s past as well as some from OLTL (i.e., Irene Manning, Alison Perkins).

    Reply

  43. David says:
    August 9, 2012 at 10:24 pm

    GH is NOT a better show bc the ratings have reflected that over the weeks. All Frank & Ron seem to care about is there precious OLTL characters (Starr & Todd) hogging screentime from the ACTUAL GH cast!! We don’t need ANYMORE One Life characters bc the GH cast doesn’t get stories at it is.

    The introduction of the One Life characters could’ve been more methodically & slowly instead of shoving them down our throats days on end.

    If this show is soooo good, the ratings would be thriving & it would be at the top most weeks & NOT dead last!

    I support GH BUT not this One Life run show who care more about writing stories from a dead soap into a show that’s suppose to be about GH!!

    I want to watch GH stories on GH not OLTL stories on GH.

    If this show gets cancelled, Cartini will be to blame!

    Reply

    Didjanoit replied August 10th, 2012 at 11:20 am

    I agree, but it’s all but impossible to fix blame for the ratings, or anything else, on Cartini. When other EPs and HWs were screwing up the show, they got blame justifiably heaped on them. The soap press were constantly pointing out the flaws on the show. But not for Frank and Ron! They can do no wrong according to the interviewers. Why is it that no one is asking Frank if he’s losing the GH fans with his changes? Why aren’t RC’s rerun stories from OLTL being questioned? Why can’t the falling ratings be placed on their heads? I support GH too, but refuse to support this hybrid soap they are calling General Hospital.

    Reply

    kimscharms55 replied August 10th, 2012 at 1:26 pm

    I agree 100% this is not the G.h. as it should be this has become One life to live on the backs of G.H.cast and crew and the history of this soap has been disintegrated to absolutely nothing. its rerun Ron just whiting out old one lifer scripts and but in G.H. character .
    That is not the soap I’ve watched almost 50 years . I watched long before the soap rags Dvrs and Vcrs . Worked grave yard shifts to watch G.H. and this is how my beloved soap is going? please cancellation would be much better than having the show as it is now utetr destruction . case in Poitn Sonny and Kate Please utter garebage it and MB. and Cartoon Hacks insult the Sonn/Brenda fans and th Carly/Sonny fans . They are the history of G.H. along with the Quartermaines and Webers. By bringing the Lifers to save our show? please that is a lie . this was the plan along for Valenti they destroyed One life so why not bring back their show to General Hospital and yes I was watched One life for 43 years day one t day end. and In the last 8 years since Higley then these 2 took over it was driven into the ground. This is G.H. not one life and we have a fine cast and insulting fans by bringing more Lifers over well oneway to tick “OFF the original fans” who stood by G.H. through thick and thin. How many fans can say that ? not many . And you wonder why the ratings are in the toilet ? keep it up Valenti and A.B.C.D. will cancel the show . and Btw here in Northern Ca Katie is on Channel 3 at 3 P.M. If A.b.c wants to do us G.H. a favor fire these 2 non creative untalented whatevers and cancel the chew and bring One life back . and leave G.H. the hell alone.

    David replied August 10th, 2012 at 2:03 pm

    I totally agree w/ you on your points. I support GH NOT this hybrid soap.

    Look at the ratings every week. It’s indicative that Cartini’s plan to “save” GH IS NOT working. :)

    aria replied August 10th, 2012 at 9:00 pm

    i agree, its like the soap press has drank the FV and RC koolaid everyone acts like they’re the best thing to happen to GH yet, they have as many flaws as the previous regime, if we could only get someone who could combine the good things these guys do with the good things the other regime did and put it together then GH would be great.

    Trisha replied August 11th, 2012 at 2:46 pm

    I totally agree. No one seems to be asking the questions about how RC and FV are facing the obvious displeasure that this ‘blending’ of soaps is causing. They seem to think it’s just going to go away, but these replies are showing that it’s not and not anytime soon either.

    Someone should address the fact that it is NOT going as easily as they had wanted it to and ASK them what they are going to do about it now that they know it’s not working.

  44. Linda Dowell says:
    August 9, 2012 at 11:52 pm

    LOL, soap watchers are an opinionated, passionate, bunch, you have to give us that! And we all think our opinion is the only right one there is :) . So here’s mine: I really like the show now – I’m happy it’s not only Sonny and Jason – I love that I get to see Alexis have a story. I’m liking Sam with John – and I’m surprised – I love having John and Todd around – they’re so much a part of my existence that they just seemed to fall into place in the show for me……can’t wait for Blair!! YIPPEE to Blair. I’d love to have Tomas, or Lorenzo, don’t care which one :) . And I sure wish I could have Zach and Kendall. I love that everyone is getting something meaty to do – it’s fair. I like the opening. I’d pay serious money to have Alexis rip Shawn’s clothes off. I wish they had not had Jerry return as an animal – I love S and Jerry and Alexis and my dream would be to have him return and a good guy – that story isn’t appealing to me at any level – too bad. I’ll actually FF thru it – and I love Sebastian, he’s a great actor. What a waste. Sigh. Other than that, happy!

    Reply

  45. Philip says:
    August 10, 2012 at 3:07 am

    Frank has accomplished what we would have called impossible a year ago: reviving a moribund soap opera and making it humorous, suspenseful and entertaining. The addition of OLTL characters to the GH canvas have sparked story lines and energized many of the GH cast which had been totally boring for years. Let’s celebrate the new GH and anticipate watching every day! Now that GH will move to 2pm very soon, I wish ABC would wise up and reboot OLTL at 1pm, dumping that obnoxious talk show, and recapturing much of the audience which abandoned all ABC daytime programming that was not scripted, continuing drama. Certainly ABC should promote GH during prime time in the same fashion it advertises its obnoxious, inexpensive reality/talk shows. LOL

    Reply

    Brian replied August 10th, 2012 at 9:31 am

    I also an celebrating the new GH !! Three huge cheers.

    Reply

    Kimberly replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:07 pm

    HIp Hip HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!

    Nikki replied August 10th, 2012 at 8:45 pm

    AMAZING comment! Best I have seen on here. GH is transforming into a moden addition of its glory days and I could not be more proud- I also very much agree with the OLTL reboot!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 12th, 2012 at 11:49 am

    Yes reboot OLTL…This would make everyone happy…MEE TOO! Not sure about that at all…They said they weren’t planning in reviving OLTL!!!

  46. Trisha says:
    August 10, 2012 at 4:09 am

    While there are some improvements, as a long time GH fan I am disappointment in the recent dismissal of family and friendshipsconnections of the GH characters. That is something that GH had always been able to perpetuate. Now, you’d never know some of them had been friends, or married or even had a family together. Also, GH characters are NOT being written to fit who they are. They are doing and saying things they never would before.

    We were led to believe that these new people knew and understood GH but it seems they don’t know the character’s histories with each other at all and throwing in a few vets does not fix the damage done when other GH characters are written so OUT of character.

    Sonny and Kate are a joke and will never gain the S&B and S&C fanbases.

    Miss the old opening, but since I NOW FF through it, it’s ok, if that was the purpose of it being so short…it worked.

    GH is totally lacking in comparison to Y&R, DOOL because the family and relationships factors have been dissolved. We no longer see the S&C connection, Jason & Carly’s connection, or much or any of the characters connections to each other. GH is just a bunch of characters running around getting involved with characters that are new and never talking to the ones they should be talking to .

    Reply

    Didjanoit replied August 10th, 2012 at 12:20 pm

    You are right about the history being ignored or trashed. It seems there are weeks and months in between family members communicating. And making the people who were still watching when Cartini took over tune out, is not the way to build on the ratings they had. Taking all the characters these viewers were watching GH to see for the past ten years and turning them into strangers is also not helping.

    Reply

    Nikki replied August 10th, 2012 at 9:09 pm

    I have to completely disagree with your last paragraph. Y&R is an abomination of a soap right now, all they do is bring in new characters that have little or no ties to the ones that have already been there and recycle the same storylines over and over again. GH, on the other hand, is doing a fantastic job of weaving intricat storylines that involve characters, couples, families, and all sorts of entanglements. They have brought on new characters or brought returning, beloved ones on, giving characters more depth and fresh storylines instead of constantly running around in the same web. They are also bringing over beloved characters from fellow ABC soaps, bringing with it new fans, without a “newbies” on screen. The intergration of John McBain has been fantastic with his backrounds with both Sonny and Anna, as well as giving Sam a much needed new love interest and storyline. Jason and Carly’s friendship has been featured often in the past few months, as well as the writers revisiting his friendship/relationship with Elizabeth that has been on-going for over a decade.

    While I, personally, am not a fan of Sonny and Kate’s, TPTB have struck gold with an actress like Kelly Sullivan who works masterfully off of Maurice Bernard as well as her great scenes with Olivia and Dante- again, a family connection. The Davis family has also been featured heavily with many scenes of Alexis, Sam, Kristina, and Molly mixing it up together in various ways (such as Alexis/Molly realstic mother/daughter dating spat, Sam giving her younger sisters advice, and Alexis helping Sam with her crumbling marriage and flirtation with John McBain). Sure, Sonny and Carly may not be featured right now, but that is always a topic of heated argument between GH fans who either love or despise the pairing.

    As for your first paragraph with characters “not being written to fit who they are”, I must argue this as well. Many characters during the Guza/Wolf debacle over the years, characters were transformed into forms of themselves that were different- so them reverting back to who they are now, must be what is throwing you. For example, Sam came onto the show and remained a fairly strong, kick butt woman who was independent, yet vulnerable. During the 2009-2011 period, she became unrecognizable and was simply a prop for Jason’s issues, instead of having her own storylines- even her rape became about comforting Jason’s hurt! Now, Sam is becoming strong once again, telling Jason that she can’t forgive him, yet staying true to the senstive soul she is by reeling from the loss of, presumeably, the love of her life, the grief of losing another child, and more. Lulu, who was a jumbled mess of a character over the years, is showing her true Spencer nature by wanting adventure instead of monotony, throwing her hat into the ring of part of her family history with the Haunted Star. Sonny is becoming, once again, the perfect balance of good and bad, something previous headwriters had not done well the past few years either by making him too “gangster” or too “sensitive”. Johnny is staying true to who he was always intended to be- the mob prince with the decent heart, facing the guilt of repercussions that came with doing something he had always dreamed of- avenging his “mother” (Maria), “sister” (Claudia), and messed up childhood 9and adulthood!) by killing Anthony. These are just a few examples of characters who have been rejuvenated by the new GH.

    Reply

  47. Ann says:
    August 10, 2012 at 5:07 am

    It took me a while to get used to the new opening. I like having more show, but I still don’t like the blink-and-you-miss-it new opening. I FF the opening a lot, but will catch it from time to time. Maybe if the pictures were a little larger?

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 12th, 2012 at 11:53 am

    I miss the ambulance…You knew it was a hospital…This new opening you don’t know what it is exactly.. It’s called GENERAL HOSPITAL , so bring the ambulance back!!!!!!!!

    Reply

  48. MissEllie says:
    August 10, 2012 at 5:20 am

    The new opening is very strange and doesn’t serve any purpose but it really doesn’t matter. What matters is the content of the show. I haven’t enjoyed anything about this show since the new team took over. There were months of Sam and Kate overload — every day and every segment. Now, it seems to be a rare day when we don’t have Todd and Heather. This show has an inflated number of cast members. Why add Joe Jr, Trey, new Krissie, etc? We have had many new additions including Anna, Heather, Todd, John, Starr, and some Blair and Tea. The show can only handle a finite number of cast members before it doesn’t make sense. The show, as it is now, doesn’t make sense to me. I am hanging in and hoping for the best.

    Reply

  49. Angie says:
    August 10, 2012 at 5:45 am

    New opening is fine as long as we get more show. Love the faster pace & better lighting. Have been watching 40+ years since I was kid with my great grandma all ABC soaps & I miss other 2 but GH is best it’s been in years. Love McBain & Todd on GH even more than on OLTL. I wish people would quit complaining if S/l doesn’t go their way & just support & be glad it’s still on. I don’t like time chg. It will be on at same time as Days which I don’t think is good for either soap. I’ve been trying to support them all since OLtL & AMC went off now I will have to record Days or watch on Soapnet as long as it’s on. Keep up good work Ftank & Ron loving the exciting show again.
    Love McBam together Jasam was boring bring on their hot love story the buildup is great & will make it more exciting when they finally get together.

    Reply

  50. SZima says:
    August 10, 2012 at 6:17 am

    “We have boxing ring sequences with Sonny that are cinematic. It is great for story, and it is also visually exciting and something like that will always enhance the viewer experience.”

    Sorry Frank, it wasn’t exciting enough for me to stop FFing all Sonny’s scenes. Add Trey to the mix and it was doubly FFable.

    Reply

  51. Didjanoit says:
    August 10, 2012 at 6:33 am

    None of the changes Frank V. has made seem airmed at making the Brand that GH was General Hospital better in my opinion. He seems so focused on merging OLTL with GH that he is not truly getting what the brand was. And he is not winning over the GH fans with what he’s doing, which is why GH continues to be last in the ratings. Of course the OLTL fans are happy, their stories and characters are still on the air.

    Frank has changed almost everything that made General Hospital great, from the writing, acting and stories, to the opening. The opening no longer represents this show that has been on the air for almost half a century. And he doesn’t want it to. He wanted a new opening for his hybrid soap that people won’t identify with GH, and he made one. He has said that he watched and loved GH, yet he’s destroying the history and characters of the show. GH needed some changes, no argument there, but what it did not need was to lose it’s very identity, and it has. General Hospital may still have the same characters on the show, but that is all it still has. This once great brand for ABC has been destroyed by Frank’s goal to keep OLTL alive. Just my opinion, of course.

    Reply

    Brian replied August 10th, 2012 at 9:29 am

    I respect your comments, but I like the “new” GH compared to the GH of the last 10 years. But I do long for the GH of the Gloria Monty years… that period, to me, were the best GH years. I hope that that is the era Frank is trying to bring back.

    Reply

    Didjanoit replied August 10th, 2012 at 11:37 am

    And I respect your opinion too. Maybe if I had not watched OLTL for all the years I did, I wouldn’t see how very much like OLTL General Hospital is now. I chose General Hospital as my one lifelong soap for a reason, being that it wasn’t like the other soaps. It wasn’t based on campy, outrageous stories and characters, although it did have it’s share. The acting was seldom ever over the top with what I call “high drama effects”. Stories were played out on the screen, not explained away by someone in a two minute scene. Would any of Gloria’s stories have been memorable if we hadn’t seen each beat being played out on the show? How different would the Luke and Laura night at Windhams have been if we hadn’t seen it; if Luke had said “didn’t we have fun at Windhams last night.”. That is what we are getting on GH now. And even during Guza’s worst stories, we still saw it play out on the screen in excruciating detail, lol. What I’m saying is that Frank can’t bring back the Gloria Monty era with his way of producing now.

    Philip replied August 10th, 2012 at 11:53 am

    I seriously believe that is Frank’s goal. I began watching GH in 1979 (mainly because it preceded The Edge of Night) and enjoyed the Heather/Diana Taylor business as well as Monica/Leslie/Rick/Jeff complexities. Gloria Monty knew how to keep a soap entertaining, something TPTB at GH totally lost sight of years ago. Once again FV with the aid of RC is making GH fast-moving and entertaining. I watch GH daily now and although I watch Y&R as well, I find a few minutes a day of that show is all I need to keep up or hold my interest. I’m not in the demographics ABC/D wants as I watched the 15-minute soaps in the ’50′s when I was a child and anyone in my peer group remembers when all 3 networks competed with soaps. (If I was bored by GH, I could turn to Guiding Light or Santa Barbara for example.) Today no such luck. I wish the networks would revive the soap genre and find FV the best person to accomplish this of people today who are in the industry. (Would anyone like to revive The Edge of Night or The Secret Storm? LOL)

    aria replied August 10th, 2012 at 8:49 pm

    Didjanoit, i like the point you made, i never thought of it that way but your right, theres a lot of telling but not showing , stories did play out instead of being told by someone.

    Trisha replied August 10th, 2012 at 11:53 am

    I couldn’t agree more. GH is losing it’s identity. I see people saying how great it is because it’s funny…I can’t even imagine describing GH as being a soap that was funny. It’s had funny moments, but to just be funny is so wrong.

    I agree that they are not showing the history of the GH characters. They’re bending backwards to give us OLTL character history, but GH character history has been demolished. GH characters that have always spent time with each other have been scattered into separate stories and contained there, as if in bubbles. GH no longer looks like GH, it looks like OLTL warmed over.

    Reply

    Christine replied August 10th, 2012 at 12:35 pm

    ” Of course the OLTL fans are happy, their stories and characters are still on the air. ”

    I wish that were true. The majority seem still unhappy with their wish list of OLTL characters they want added. While they should be happy that there is still a reminder of their once beloved show alive and well in Port Charles, they complain that they want Roxie and other insignificant characters (yes, I said insignificant because GH has their own eccentric ones too that they could bring back in favor of OLTL ones). While I do enjoy the addition of TODD and JOHN MCBAIN only, I could really care less for Starr and her singing, but I understand they want the youth demographic and she is supposed to do it.

    Forgive me, Didjanoit, but what part of the “brand” is missing? I ask because I did not grow up watching GH, although I have always heard of Luke & Laura, Robert & Anna, Anna & Duke, Frisco & Felicia, et al., and when I did start watching which was just after Sonny and Brenda were together for a while, it was Sonny & Brenda and Lois & Ned. I guess I really don’t know what comes to mind when one thinks of GH other than the hospital, but I think they still have a good hospital presence.

    Can you give some examples, please? :-) I just want to hear your take.

    Reply

    Didjanoit replied August 10th, 2012 at 6:10 pm

    I tried to wing it and put it in my own words, but actually the very definition of Iconic Brand, which are the words ABC uses to describe GH, describe it better.

    Iconic Brand’s value comes from having such a strong identity that they are considered cultural icons. Thirty million viewers watching Luke and Laura signified General Hospital as being one of those icons. You need four key elements for this to happen.

    1) A reputation for having good quality
    2) Must be seen as legitimate and respectable by consumers
    3) A difference between who your consumer is, and who they wish to be
    4) Actively engaging in making sure the brand maintains it’s iconic position

    The way I see it, Frank & Ron are breaking all the rules for maintaining GH’s brand as an icon; especially the first two I mentioned above. GH was a show with a reputation for good quality, which is gone now. And they are treating the show like a joke, which takes away it’s respectability. General Hospital cannot become a hybrid show and keep it’s brand. Did this help at all? lol

    Christine replied August 15th, 2012 at 9:29 am

    Yes I understand what you are saying. It is hard to say what they should do and not do. I mean when OLTL was ending … and it was just about dead and gone, then you had ABC promos saying that the Mannings were coming to Port Charles. Well, I see how that would help bring in some eyes from OLTL to GH as GH is the only soap left on that network.

    That being said, then there is a fine line with keeping true to the GH characters on the canvas and the OLTL crossovers and integrating them. Honestly, and it is just my opinion, I would have been just fine if it were only Todd to come over and not Starr as she is just not doing it for me on GH, but obviously there is some kind of agenda there – you’re right.

    I guess it is just one of those things that they do when a show is facing the ax. I still remember when LOVING was turned into THE CITY. They tried everything they could, but nothing worked. PORT CHARLES did the same thing and it still got canceled. I don’t know. I wish I did know. :-)

  52. Teresa says:
    August 10, 2012 at 8:27 am

    I’ve said it for months and will keep saying it. GH has become so wonderful to watch. The opening is short, but I like it. It’s updated and it gives me more GH time. I used to fastforward through the old opening but don’t with this one. I absolutely love all the new changes. THe storylines are amazing. Cannot say enough good things about it.

    Reply

    Dawn D replied August 10th, 2012 at 11:23 am

    ITA I’m so much happier to have the s/l’s moving and are better. I’m finally seeing some of my fav’s on screen again so I’m grateful for that. The suspense is way better.

    Reply

  53. Rodney says:
    August 10, 2012 at 9:20 am

    Let’s be honest. This show is 100 times better today than it was a year ago. Guza and Phelps sucked the effing life out of this show and you could tell it was on it’s last leg before Frank and Ron took over. The story pacing is quicker, storylines are connecting, character interaction is better, lighting and wardrobe is hotter, and the dialogue is top notch. What more can you ask from one show? I honestly do not understand the gripes some fans are having especially the OLTL crossovers. Soaps have ALWAYS done crossovers especially ABC soaps. Hell, Linda Dano crossed over to all 4 shows at the time and I never saw this much bitching. Robin Christopher sucessfully crossed over from AMC and OLTL to GH. The great Gerald Anthony from OLTL crossed over to GH and won an EMMY. There are only (3) OLTL crossovers on the show and I must say Ron has done an excellent job connecting them to core GH characters. The show is more balanced and not dominated by the mob. I love Maurice Benard and Steve Burton but it’s nice to see FV and RC spread the love to other actors/characters besides Sonny and Jason. You can tell the actors are happier to be on the show that includes quality writing, direction and a producer who is actually hands on and on the set.

    Reply

    aria replied August 10th, 2012 at 8:40 pm

    almost all those successful crossover have GH connection. Robin Christopher was more popular on GH then on AMC and OLTL, and the great Gerald Anthony finally won his Emmy for playing the part over on GH.

    Reply

    Rodney replied August 12th, 2012 at 5:50 pm

    I respectfully disagree. Robin Christopher was a staple on AMC in the 80s and early 90s. While she was great on GH, a lot of fans really wished her character returned to Pine Valley where she belonged. As for Gerald Anthony, he was such a huge part of OLTL history especially with Judith Light.

    Didjanoit replied August 11th, 2012 at 6:31 am

    Yes, let’s be honest, if the show was 100X better today than a year ago, there wouldn’t be 240,000 fewer viewers than last year, when GH was hitting new lows in the ratings! Whether we like the show or not is subjective, but the ratings are factual, and GH is losing viewers. It’s down by 187,000 in the 18-49 demos, which means that it is losing the younger viewers that all shows want. So people can say the show is great and how much they love it now, but Frank & Ron are still not doing what is needed to increase the ratings.

    It is just my opinion, but they really need to be looking at why they are losing the fans who were watching last year. Be it their attempt to merge the two shows, the storylines, the frontburner characters or the new opening, whatever the reason, they are not making GH better for some viewers. And I personally think that the soap press are not doing GH any favors by continuing to ignore what those ratings numbers are saying.

    Reply

    Rodney replied August 12th, 2012 at 5:47 pm

    All soaps are down in ratings. I’m so sick of GH being the number 1 target because it’s the soap everyone has their eye on. Let’s face it. Daytime soap viewership is going down but it’s good to see a soap producer and writer who love the genre and are trying new things to whip the show into shape. I may not agree 100% of what Cartini are doing but it’s a hell of a lot better than anything Guza and Phelps did during their reign of terror.

    Rodney replied August 12th, 2012 at 5:56 pm

    But can you admit the show was a hot ass mess under Phelps and Guza? I’m not talking about ratings. I’m not talking about quality. The show had one foot in the grave and was about to be cancelled if it weren’t for Frank and Ron. Did you know Garin Wolf and Phelps were going to really kill off Robin for real and not even bring back Finola Hughes and Tristan Rogers? Say what you will about Frank and Ron but they really do care about this show’s history and characters whereas Guza and Phelps, who destroyed everything recognizable about the show.

  54. Rodney says:
    August 10, 2012 at 9:26 am

    And another thing…..who gives a sh** about the opening? That’s my other gripe with some of the GH bashers on twitter. We’re not bitching about show openings? Who gives a crap? I want more show. I already know who’s on the cast. It’s as if people are scared to get with the times. Soaps are dying and finally a producer who gives a sh** about this genre and finding ways to make them watchable again. For christ sake’s FV’s first hire as the new EP was FINOLA HUGHES, who last time I checked was a classic GH character. SMDH!!!!!

    Reply

  55. Matt says:
    August 10, 2012 at 9:44 am

    Don’t watch GH. Days is the bomb. I think it is rude for Frank to insult the other soaps.

    Reply

  56. Darcy says:
    August 10, 2012 at 10:50 am

    I for one see the same pattern that has plagued GH the focus on the favorite pets who are shoved down my throat to brand the show .. I don’t need repitious dialog (by nearly every character) telling me about Sam, Jason, and that dang baby…its not hard to figure out who is getting story and who is not…Its not hard to see that Todd Manning has gotten his fair share of air.

    Jason doesn’t have any story outside of his marriage repetitious dialog (take a shot of tequila every time a character says Sam’s name)… the scriptwriters need to stop this its annoying to many fans.

    Yes OLTL was a great show unfortunately its gone now I don’t want GH to turn into OLTL lets keep GH general hospiital even though focus is “still more on the mob than the hospital” not on the hospital… meaning hospital storylines! Oh that’s right where are the staff? We got Elizabeth (who desparately needs a storyline & some air) , Epiphany (who gets little to no air), Patrick, Steve, Ewen.

    And yes GH always had an ambulance light or something in its opening that history is gone.

    Reply

    MCBAMJASAM replied August 10th, 2012 at 12:09 pm

    Well they should talk about their dang baby…

    sheesh give me a break!!!!

    There’s a level of disconnect…..

    Meaning Mcbain & Lizzey..

    Anyway……..Congraulations to Lulu And Dante…I Hope they

    don’t make them go through hell!!!!……Like they did to

    Jason and Sam….

    I’m tired of McBain…..ENOUGH OF HIM!!!

    FYI……congraulation to Sonny….. He’s gonna be Grandfather!!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 12th, 2012 at 12:02 pm

    I am not tired of McBain .. He is one of my favorites from OLTL…..Look forward to seeing more & more of him on GH…..I miss OLTL & there are alot of those characters I probably will not see anymore…..

  57. Dawn D says:
    August 10, 2012 at 11:20 am

    I like the opening but I’m sorry to say once again I’m seeing Kelly M. out front of two great actors Steve/Maurice. Why does she get so much compared to all the other female characters/actresses who are much better and there longer?

    Reply

  58. ZACK TATE says:
    August 10, 2012 at 2:47 pm

    GH badly needed changes.Iam glad GH has FV and RC.GH is no longer the Sonny/Jason show.I hated what Bob Guza did to GH.

    Reply

  59. ghhshirley says:
    August 10, 2012 at 3:15 pm

    I think Valentini is doing everything right. GH just keeps getting better every day. Fans of the show need to keep tuning in, and NOT fast-forward thru anything. The show is fast-paced and you never know what you could be missing.

    Reply

    su0000 replied August 10th, 2012 at 9:20 pm

    I agree with you… GH has become very good and I’m excited to watch the next day..
    I can only hope all the haters will stop watching and then shut up with their hateful constant complaining, whining and bitch fest they seem to thrive on..
    That would be best for all if the haters just shut up and moved on :)

    Reply

    dg replied August 12th, 2012 at 2:13 pm

    Sorry Su but I have watched this show longer than any of the actors, the writers, producers ( and probably the backstage people as well) have been employed there. I’ve watched for 42 yrs beginning at age 5 with my mother on our black and white TV in 1969.

    Those of us who have been with this show for the long haul have a right to our opinion and we are not going away. You may characterize us as “haters” but that is your misguided opinion. I have a guardian of GH’s venerable history. John Beridino ( Steve hardy) and Emily McLaughlin ( Jessie) God rest their souls are gone now. But in the tradition of John I will continue to speak up when the show gets off track.
    And ironically GH cant afford to lose anymore viewers so you wishing that we would “move on” is against your own desires, lol. Chill out. We can voice our opinions and you can voice yours.

    susan M. replied August 12th, 2012 at 12:04 pm

    DITTO!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply

  60. kay/kay says:
    August 10, 2012 at 3:28 pm

    I have and always will have a dislike for the character of Todd to make a rapist a cartoon character is demeaning to women, he would not have been a character I wanted on GH, everytime I seem him I remember the rape scene which was one of the worst on daytime to turn him into a misunderstood loveable fuzzball makes me puke.The only time I could handle the character was when Trevor St John played Todd only because it was a different face. A gang rape storyline and you keep this character disgusting.

    Reply

    dg replied August 12th, 2012 at 2:07 pm

    Kay i really appreciate your point of view. I watched Roger Howarth from his first day as Todd. His portrayal of the character was nothing short of amazing. It was hard to believe that in his real life Roger was a devoted father and husband!
    I ‘ve never really liked the Bart Simpsonesque, lovable fuzzball Todd as you so masterfully characterized him.
    I much prefer the sadistic, unpredictable Todd. Roger is much for effective when he plays that angle of the character. And I also have moral apprehension when soap writers redeem rapists and make them heroes. To me that is very concerning for a genre that is aimed at women!
    I never really like TSJ’s Todd. I think he is a talented actor, but for me RH is the one and only Todd. But his darker elements make him compelling. The slapstick, “lovable” Todd doesnt cut it for me.

    Reply

  61. MCBAMJASAM says:
    August 10, 2012 at 6:06 pm

    Now I’m loving Jasam..

    Can you keep it going RC?

    It is a start!!!!!

    Now bring Ms. Archer over Mr. McBain….

    or Ms. Herbst!!!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 12th, 2012 at 12:04 pm

    DITTO !!!!!!!!!!!!

    Reply

    susan M. replied August 12th, 2012 at 12:06 pm

    No ditto… I like them both…Archer & MCBAIN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  62. aria says:
    August 10, 2012 at 8:38 pm

    to me, briging Finola Hughes back was HUGE, so for that alone, FV and RC are my heroes, but still theres things they could’ve done better, i agree with some fans that say the same people that the previous regime had front and burner are still dominating air time. Almost every magazine poll i see, Rebecca Herbts out ranks all other female cast member in popularity, so why is she playing second fiddle to Kelly Monoco and Laura Wright? wheres Monica?, garin wolf gave her more air time then RC/FV have. the promise of more Mac is a total tease, he’s now back to being unseen again, and on an on an on, so, i hate to say this, but the way he produces a show doesn’t seem to be very popular with the Emmy’s, just look how OLTL couldn’t even get any Dominant recognition.

    Reply

    dg replied August 12th, 2012 at 12:55 pm

    Thank you Aria I agree with all of your assessments. But here’s what Ive read about Finola Hughes’s return. Cartini were literally assaulted on twitter with fans complaining that Finola didnt have a contract.
    Then Cartini finally gave in. I was one of those ppl who complained about them giving the One Life actors contracts but neglecting poor Finola and Robin Mattson. Both are 2 of my all time fave actresses.
    The status of Leslie Charleson as Monica is also a crying shame. Despite her age Leslie is still a vital performer and she and the entire Q clan deserve a front burner story.
    And we also agree about John J York as Mac. He is still wasted. And what about poor Kristina Wagner (Felecia)-no air time for her, lol. Cartini have teased long time fans with all these come backs and then they get tossed on the back burner probably because of their age.
    And Cartini favors their One Life actors and the GH teacher’s pets- Kelly Monaco ( Sam), Steve Burton ( Jason), Maurice Bernard ( Sonny) and Laura Wright (Carly). I predicted that the backstage politics wouldnt change with Cartini and it didnt. Thats a shame.

    Reply

    Rodney replied August 12th, 2012 at 6:09 pm

    So let me get this straight, fan pressure forced Frank to give Finola a contract? Last time I checked, Finola was on Frank’s wish list of actors to bring back when he was hired at GH. My sources tell me it was Frank and Ron who fought the network to give Finola a contract. Under Jill Farren Phelps, Finola couldn’t get a contract let alone a decent storyline. As for Leslie Charleson, she’s hasn’t been used in years before Frank took over. I read Ron has already penned a storyline for Monica coming up in the fall. John J. York looks so much better since Frank took over. He finally got that man to hit the gym again and get a haircut. Mac looks sexy again and I know with the Robin storyline heating up again, he will be back full force. I have a feeling Kristina Wagner is being saved for when Jack Wagner eventually comes back to the show.

  63. Jeanne says:
    August 11, 2012 at 6:41 am

    I can deal with the new opening. In the scheme of things it’s not that big of a deal, although it is a little too quick in my opinion. One thing I don’t like is the quick change to commercial rather than the fade out and I also don’t care for all the flashbacks. They are constant so that’s kind of annoying to me. I don’t mind the addition of the OLTL people, in fact Todd has become one of my favorites! And I do like Michael and Starr together. I’m not loving the new Kristina, not so much the actress just the fact that she’s so different than the other one. I couldn’t care less about Kristina and Trey. I guess we’ll see what the future holds and I really hope there is a future since I’ve been watching for 30 plus years!

    Reply

  64. Scott says:
    August 12, 2012 at 11:25 am

    I think now that he’s settling in, I am seeing some changes in the show. His instincts as an Executive Producer are good, just wish he had the writing team that was top-notch. As for the filming changes, it looks a lot cheaper than it did before he came in. He’s using OLTL’s filming lights and equipment on a show built for HD features and it looks really cheap. The new opening is a bit cheap, too. But I guess it’s easiest to update than using filmed clips.

    Reply

  65. dg says:
    August 12, 2012 at 12:48 pm

    Thank you so much Kimscharms 55! I knew I couldnt be the only long time viewer with our opinions. And we dont have to be positive. We have the right to our points of view. Like it or not.

    And this is to everyone who praise Cartini for saving GH. You guys are wrong and you havent done your research. GH is on the air today because of two things- The Revolution got horrendous ratings and Katie Couric begged ABC to cancel it instead of GH so she would have a strong lead in for her show!

    Also most of you are deceived into thinking that the One Life cross over is raising GH’s ratings. That’s also very wrong. Do your ratings research. GH’s ratings are around 1.8. That translates to just over 2 million viewers. That is no improvement over last yr! And its also a bit less than when One Life ended. When One Life wrapped they have approximately 2.5 million viewers. So GH hasnt even made it that far yet!

    You guys are saying what you want to believe but the truth is different. Bottom line is that both GH and One Life lost their true core audiences nearly 20 yrs ago and theyve both struggled to remain on the air. Cartini are no saviors to One Life or GH. They have their talents but their take on serials is silly and at times insulting to any intelligent viewer.
    If you like their stuff then cool beans for you.

    But many of us dont like what theyve done with our show. And we have a right to express our opinion. But I speak using the facts. The rest of you should endeavor to do the same. Research the facts before you speak. Peace.

    Reply

    tani replied August 12th, 2012 at 2:36 pm

    well said

    Reply

    Rodney replied August 12th, 2012 at 6:02 pm

    If you put GH against ANY show on the CW and they would beat it. Why can’t the networks see that aspect? I thank Frank and Ron because they are giving me an entertaining show again. I haven’t been this entertained by GH since the Wendy Riche/Claire Labine glory days. is the show 100% perfect? No. There are things Frank and Ron still need to work on but the show is 100 times better than it was a year ago and that’s a fact. No matter how many times some fans will deny it, but I doubt they would go back to the hell days of Bob Guza and Jill Farren Fuck Up.

    Reply

    Rodney replied August 12th, 2012 at 6:04 pm

    Another thing…why are fans who praise Cartini wrong? Don’t they have a right to enjoy what they see on their screens? The same right that you have not to like it. I don’t understand when Frank and Ron became the enemy when clearly they are the only duo in daytime who give a shit about soaps anymore.

    MCBAMJASAM replied August 12th, 2012 at 6:27 pm

    well ok then

    could they speed up the story!!!!

    we know the lost the core….

    but they have JASAM apart, mad, confused, distant

    it is stupid!! to say the least

    I dont care if they ever do another mob story…I guess RC AND FV HELPED FIXEDTHE SHOW!!

    BUT THEY HAVE TO EXPLAIN JOHN MCBAIN PRESENCE ON THE SHOW

    WHAT IS CONNECTION TO SAMMY?

    I THINK JOHN AND SAM HAVE NO CHEMISTRY

    Jasam all the way!!

    Reply

    Didjanoit replied August 12th, 2012 at 8:28 pm

    Here is another couple of facts for you dg, that 1.8 number that GH is at now is the Total Viewers number. GH had 2.0-3.3 in the 18-49 demo up until around May of 2007, which was more viewers that we have in total now. Say what you will about Guza and Phelps, but the viewers were there watching during most of their tenure. They weren’t perfect either, but they had “eyeballs” on the show.

    I don’t think anyone is saying that fans praising Cartini are wrong, but neither are the ones who aren’t praising them. People watch the show to get different things out of it, and what I was getting out of GH, I’m not anymore. I too have watched the show for over 42 years, and it has been through many changes by many different regimes. But this regime has made changes that have made me not want to watch the show after all these years. Like another poster said, the show doesn’t make sense to me anymore.

    Reply

  66. susan M. says:
    August 14, 2012 at 8:25 pm

    I saw on my T.V. today a commerical with Katie Couric giving out invitation cards to her show Sept. 10 at 2:00pm on WESH which is NBC on my cable company in Fl. I thought she was going to be on abc at 3:00pm Sept, 10.. Which is it ?? Why is there a commerical on NBC for katie’s show when it’s suppose to be on abc….Can anyone help me with this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Shouldn’t the commerical be on abc????

    Reply

  67. Thomas says:
    August 15, 2012 at 8:52 pm

    The Opening of the show has a vibe to it that kind of says ‘It’s the new day’ at General Hospital. It shows you that the show in a sense has had a ‘reboot’ by the firing of Bob Guza Jr. and Jill Phelps and the hiring of Ron Carlivati and Frank Valentini. My only problem with it, is the lack of so many key characters of the show. Where’s Steven, Olivia, Ewen, Edward, Maxie and Mac? One more thing- it’s good that a few of the ‘new’ cast members/ characters (Todd, Starr, Kristina, McBain) have new shots, but the older, veteran cast members (Sonny, Carly, Sam, Jason, Lulu, Dante, Liz, Tracy, Luke, Patrick) shots are from 2007-2009. They need to be UPDATED!

    Reply

  68. susan M. says:
    August 16, 2012 at 6:58 am

    See comments on 7/14 at 8:25p.m………. Can anyone give me their opinion on it????

    Reply

  69. vikkye v.. says:
    August 24, 2012 at 8:41 pm

    i love gh, i have been watching as long as i can remember and i love all the new changes.. it just gets better and better and i will never stop watching!!! thank you for all your great work to the full cast & crew of gh.

    Reply

  70. Lori says:
    August 24, 2012 at 10:29 pm

    I am a OLTL fan.. I was so upset when the show was cancelled. Never Have watched much of GH, but because of some of the actors from OLTL, I thought it was time to start watching. I love it!!! I have been watching GH in reruns on Soapnet… and I must say, it wasnt as interesting as it is now!!! love the opening and that they are including the one life crew!!!

    Reply

  71. ed brady says:
    January 4, 2013 at 9:37 pm

    Bring Back Brian Patrick Clark as Grant andrews or Putnam and steve bond as Jimmy Lee Holt. The made the show exciting!

    Reply

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