Next week, the iconic daytime drama General Hospital will mark a significant milestone as it celebrates its 62nd anniversary since its premiere on April 1, 1963. This special episode, airing on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, will not only highlight the long-standing legacy of the show but also pay tribute to beloved stars Genie Francis, who portrays Laura Spencer Collins, and the late Leslie Charleson, known for her role as Monica Quartermaine.
The anniversary episode is set to feature the opening of the new ‘Dr. Monica Quartermaine Cardiac Wing,’ a heartfelt dedication that Francis will lead. In a recent interview with TV Guide Magazine, she expressed her pride in delivering speeches that reflect her genuine feelings about the show and its people. “I take great pride in giving the speeches because there’s a lot of truth in them and how I feel about this place and how I feel about the people in,” Francis shared.
Charleson, who passed away on January 12, 2025, was a significant figure in the show’s history, and her absence will be felt during this celebration. The episode was written before her passing, with hopes that she would be able to participate in the dedication. Plans for a memorial honoring her character, Monica, are also underway, although the air date for this tribute has yet to be announced.
Reflecting on her late co-star, Francis stated, “Leslie was always so kind to me. Most of us have come and gone, me included. But Leslie was there non-stop. She was a real pillar of this show and of that hospital.” This sentiment echoes the deep connections formed among the cast over the years.
In addition to the anniversary festivities, fans can expect new storylines to unfold, including a budding romance for Lucas Jones, played by Van Hansis. After a tumultuous breakup with Brad Cooper, Lucas finds himself attracted to a new character named Marco, portrayed by Adrian Anchondo. Hansis, who joined the cast in October 2024, has brought a fresh energy to the character, and he is eager to explore this new romantic development.
“What we’ve been shooting has been really fun and again, I just love working with Adrian,” Hansis remarked in an interview with Soap Opera Digest. He emphasized the variety of storylines available in daytime television, saying, “I get to do so many different types of things — I do doctor stuff one day, and then the next day I’m yelling at Willow, and the day after that I get to be drunk and puking on people.” This versatility excites him as he anticipates the direction of Lucas and Marco's relationship.
Hansis will also engage with fans during a live chat on YouTube’s Michael Fairman Channel on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 7 PM ET/4 PM PT, where he will discuss his experiences on General Hospital and his evolving storyline.
Meanwhile, the drama continues to unfold within the show's established relationships. In a recent episode, Sonny Corinthos, portrayed by Maurice Benard, faced a tense confrontation with Ava Jerome, played by Maura West. Ava, in dire financial straits after being cut off from the Cassadine fortune, approached Sonny for a $2 million loan. Their negotiation quickly escalated into a heated argument, reflecting the deep-seated animosity between them.
Ava's request for additional child support for their daughter, Avery, was met with Sonny's counter-offer of revisiting their custody agreement. As the conversation turned bitter, Ava chastised Sonny for his parenting choices, particularly regarding his son Michael, who is currently recovering from serious injuries in a German clinic. The confrontation culminated in a dramatic moment when Sonny collapsed, prompting Ava to withhold his medication, raising questions about her true intentions.
The fallout from this encounter is expected to reverberate through the upcoming episodes, especially as Kristina, Sonny’s daughter, becomes increasingly obsessed with Ava. Kristina, portrayed by Kate Mansi, blames Ava for the loss of her own child and vows to take action against her perceived enemy. In the episode airing on March 28, Kristina is set to regret a decision she makes in her quest to confront Ava, hinting at further complications in their fraught relationship.
Elsewhere in Port Charles, Emma, played by Braedyn Bruner, is taking matters into her own hands concerning the Quartermaine crypt, which is under threat of demolition. Alongside her friend Gio, Emma has devised a plan to save the crypt, but her attempts may lead to drastic consequences, further complicating the ongoing tensions within the Quartermaine family.
Additionally, Anna Devane, portrayed by Finola Hughes, finds herself reflecting on her past following the recent events involving Valentin Cassadine. After Valentin was taken to Steinmauer prison, Anna is left to ponder her life choices and the implications of his incarceration on their future. This introspective journey may lead Anna to reevaluate her path and seek a more positive direction.
As the drama unfolds, viewers can also look forward to guest appearances from icons such as Donna Mills, Jaclyn Smith, and Shania Twain in the episode of Doctor Odyssey airing on March 27, 2025. This special themed episode promises to blend romance and medical drama, showcasing the talents of these celebrated actresses.
With the 62nd anniversary approaching, General Hospital continues to captivate audiences with its intricate storylines and beloved characters. The combination of nostalgia and new beginnings makes it an exciting time for fans of the show. Will the anniversary episode live up to expectations? How will the characters navigate their complex relationships? Only time will tell as the saga of Port Charles unfolds.
