HOLLYWOOD—This has been a huge week for soap fans across the nation. Earlier in the week it was announced from Prospect Park that ABC sudsers “All My Children” and “One Life to Live” will be getting a revival only this time airing on the Internet.
Jeff Kwatinez and Rich Frank from Prospect Park released the following statement on Monday, January 7 confirming the launch of the two soaps.
“We are pleased to confirm that Prospect Park is reviving the beloved soap operas, All My Children and One Life To Live as the anchor programs on The Online Network (TOLN). Today we are also pleased to confirm that Prospect Park has: 1) signed guild agreements with both SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) and the DGA (Directors Guild of America); 2) entered into a consulting agreement with Agnes Nixon the creator of All My Children and One Life to Live guaranteeing her active involvement; 3) hired Foz McDermott (coordinating producer Heroes) as TOLN’s head of production, Jennifer Pepperman (Director, One Life to Live) as Executive Producer on One Life to Live, and Ginger Smith (Producer, All My Children) as Executive Producer on All My Children; and 4) arranged the necessary financing to begin production in February on both All My Children and One Life To Live. We thank the loyal audience and new generation of fans of both shows who have demonstrated that passion and exciting story lines are not just reserved for traditional television. Their enduring support encouraged us to move forward each and every day. We look forward to sharing more details including our launch air date and additional specifics in the coming weeks.”
Some actors from those shows have already signed on for the reboot as some are calling it. Actress Debbi Morgan who portrayed Dr. Angie Hubbard on “AMC” has already signed on, as well as Vincent Izziary who portrayed the wicked Dr. David Hayward. A complete list of all actors expected to return for the soap which concluded in September 2011 has not yet been disclosed.
On the other-hand multiple actors from “OLTL” have already signed on including Jerry verDorn, Michael Easton and Kassie DePaiva to name a few. Other casting news this week is big for fans of “General Hospital” and “The Young and Restless.” Steve Burton who portrayed Jason Morgan on “GH” for more than 20 years is jumping ship to “Y&R” where he will portray Dylan McAvoy, a war vet and ex-lover to Avery (Jessica Collins).Burton made the announcement on Monday with the ladies of the CBS show “The Talk.” As “Y&R” gains one famed actor, “GH” is gaining a fan favorite.
Entertainment Weekly revealed that Genie Francis who was last seen portraying Genevieve Atkinson on “Y&R” is expecting to return as Laura Spencer for “GH.” Its huge news as the soap is getting ready to celebrate its 50th anniversary in April, so expect some juicy storylines in the coming weeks. Just how Francis will be reintroduced into the mix is not yet known, but I’m guessing it will be major considering she was last seen in 2008.
There is also buzz that perhaps Jack Wagner could possibly make a return to the soap by reprising his role as Frisco. The big wigs at “GH” have been trying to lure the actor back for some time, but no deal has been made. It would be great to see him back on the small screen with Felicia (Kristina Wagner) as Cesar Faison (Anders Dove) implements his new onslaught of terror to Port Charles. Looks like Francis isn’t the only familiar face returning to the show, as Jon Lindstrom (Kevin) is set to return to Port Charles just in time for February sweeps. It will be a treat to see Kevin alongside Lucy (Lynn Herring) who recently made her return to the soap a few weeks ago.
Expect other big announcements in the coming weeks from Prospect Park as I’m sure more actors and actresses sign on for “AMC” and “OLTL.” “General Hospital” airs weekdays at 2 p.m. on ABC and “Young and Restless” airs weekdays at 12:30 p.m. on CBS.
By LaDale Anderson
