2014 was a great year for soap operas. The ratings are up which makes the executives very happy! Sure, fans love to complain about their shows and the writing, the character’s action because that is part of the fun of it all. Of course soap fans will disagree which show was the best in 2014. In my opinion the best soap in 2014 is General Hospital.
General Hospital is on fire. The show has been recruiting some major talent. This year Billy Miller and Michelle Stafford, both huge stars on Y&R, joined the cast of General Hospital. Fans were concerned about recasting the role of Jason Morgan. Jason, who was played by Steve Burton, was a beloved part of Port Charles. The key to a successful recast is finding the right actor. Billy Miller was that guy! Miller is an amazing talent and even die hard Steve Burton fans are commenting positively on how Miller has taken over the role. Miller has added his own spin to Jason and even is bringing a smile and a laugh to the old Stone Cold character. Other Y&R alumni are also doing great in Port Charles. Maura West, former Y&R star, who now plays Ava Jerome is a woman who you love to hate. She brings many dimensions to this mob princess. Also Emme Rylan, former Y&R star who now plays Lulu has taken over that role with ease. I cannot say the same about the girl who now plays Emme’s old part Abby Newman on Y&R.
This year performances by Anthony Geary (Luke), Maura West (Ava) , Michelle Stafford (Nina), and Kathleen Gati (Dr. Obrecht) have been stellar. Newcomer Ryan Paevey, whose good looks are only out shined by his good heart, is a special treat to watch. The show loves to take out their somewhat dusty villains for a spin from time to time, but there is balance in the fact that there are many legitimately good people in Port Charles. No one ever really dies in Port Charles and you never know who is lurking around the docks!
It is not just the casting that makes General Hospital great it is that the show takes risks. Sure sometimes the show is a little far fetched, but it is always entertaining. The writers keep the fans guessing and are good at keeping secrets. The show balances action, romance, humor, and campy fun with ease. The writers keep the show fresh by introducing new characters as well as integrating old characters into the story. The decision to kill AJ, was not something that I agreed with, but I will say brought about a huge amount of drama. No one wants Sonny to be in jail, but it is unrealistic to think that he would never have to pay for his crimes. I am also not sold on him and Carly being back together, but time will tell. The Fluke story went on too long, but with Geary’s back injury and surgery, it is understandable. The show generally moves a quick pace (for soap operas).
Tell us if you agree that GH was the best show of 2014. Who do you think delivered the best performances? What stories did you enjoy most?