General Hospital : A Guide to the Show's Most Recent and Exciting Changes

In the history of television there have been only a few series that have played to a larger or more fiercely devout audience than ABC's longest running daytime serial General Hospital. Debuting in 1963, over 40 years and 10,000 episodes later its popularity continues to grow throughout generations of soap opera fans.

Loyal viewers tout the shows high-velocity adventure and intriguing changes in story lines. The changes in 2005, in line with tradition, are even surprising long time fans.

The character of Carly Corinthos is most renowned for her quick temper and quicker actions. Her rapid hospital admittance was only half of the surprise when viewers learned there would be yet another Carly cast change. The third Carly this year.

Those warn the only cast changes this season.The Scorpio Family, long-time Port Charles denizens experienced many changes when Felicia and Maxie and were re-cast.

While the show lost some of its oldest characters in A.J and Faith two characters from General Hospital past returned with Robin Scorpio and Helena Cassadine.
And in the long line of soap opera tradition Courtney became pregnant with Jax's miracle baby.

The character of Luke Spencer, played forever by Tony Geary,has been described as the most legendary soap opera character in history.

Geary has won 4 Daytime Emmy's for Outstanding Lead Actor and holds 5 nominations for his portrayal of Luke.
His warm/cold relationship with his family has kept fans intrigued for years and this has been no exception.
He was alternately at odds with and lovingly close to Lucky until we were finally able to witness the long awaited marriage of Lucky to Elizabeth.

This follows Lukes own scam of a marriage to Tracy Quartermain. Of course, when Lucky is in need in the wake of the train wreck Luke lets nothing stop him. We also witnessed the soap opera ageing of Lukes daughter LuLu whom he always thought would be idly by during his tantrums but suddenly is less that tolerant.

Balancing out the wedding of Lucky and Elizabeth is the divorce of Nicklaus and Emily after the fairytale courtship and wedding. Although helped along by the fling with Courtney, her miracle pregnancy may dampen the flames.

Finally , as November descends upon us so do the soap opera sweeps. And what soap opera would be complete without the sweeps week disaster of epic proportions. We are not disappointed by the devastating train collision and ensuing drama. In true General Hospital style babies are born and people die, mortal enemies are forced together and lives hang in the balance.

The inhabitants of Port Charles are geared up to keep their faithful audience entertained throughout the chilly holiday season with warm an engaging story lines and legendary action.