She is best known for playing the role of Laura Spencer on the television soap opera General Hospital from 1977 to present, for which she won a Daytime Emmy Award in 2007. The past year has been a good one for Laura fans, who have seen the beloved character in rich storylines that included the reveal that baddie Cyrus Renault (Jeff Kober) and attorney Martin Grey (Michael E. Knight) are her brothers; an emotional arc in which Laura watched her daughter, Lulu (Emme Rylan), fall into a serious coma; and plenty of screen time between the character and her mother, Lesley (Denise Alexander). Read Next: The Morning Show Renewed for Season 4 on Apple TV+ Ahead of Season 3 Debut, Kristina Malandro (aka Kristina Malandro Wagner), Jack Wagner, (1985). 50th Annual Daytime Emmy nominations announced: Find out who was nominated this year! This isn't the first time that the actress has decided to take a mid-year break. Use left and right arrow keys to navigate between menu items. But she stated she didn't want to play a wounded dove like Laura anymore and wanted to play stronger characters. The momentous event cemented Luke and Laura as the most famous supercouple in soap operas. Olivia, played by Lisa LoCicero,and Brook Lynn, played by Amanda Setton,are surprised to see everything come together so quickly. General Hospital's Laura Webber has a tendency to disappear in the summer, and this year is no different. Genie Francis has played Laura Spencer on and off since 1977. Genie, Luke was killed off last year. Genie Francis Is Leaving GENERAL HOSPITAL But She'll Be Back! Steffy squared off with Sheila at the prison. Francis: I certainly hope so. Hard to believe. In a 2018 exclusive with Closer Weekly, when asked how she would rate her life at the moment from 1 to 10, the TV star answered, saying "ten!" But so far, I guess that hasnt happened. Is there some Genie in Laura, and Laura in Genie? Tony Geary makes surprise GH-related acting appearance, DAYTIME EMMYS: General Hospital leads 50th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards nominations, Emma Samms returns to GH -- but she almost walked away from the show "permanently". Holly, played by Emma Samms,asks her son Ethan, played by James Ryan,to tell her everything that happened to him. Making her the centerpiece of the show's teen scene drew in scores of younger viewers, and as Laura's popularity grew, so did her romantic storyline with Scotty Baldwin (Kin Shriner). Y&R RECAPS: What you missed the Week of April 24, 2023, THE SCOOP! Ceara was "killed off" when her character prepared to move to that soap's town of Corinth (although it was an unseen extra stepping off the bus into the line of fire), and years later, Laura also appeared in Corinth on General Hospital when ex-husband Luke found her tied up in the Alden family basement. Francis debuted on GH back in 1977 when she took over the role of Laura Webber from Stacey Baldwin, and became a soap star as Lauras romances with Scotty and Luke became popular supercouples. This interview has been edited and condensed. While no official air date for her first episode back has been revealed, viewers can expect to see both Francis and Michael E. Knight (Martin) back on screen in early December. The iconic actress who is best known to daytime-soap viewers as "Laura" of "General Hospital" fame, first burst onto the acting scene as a 14-year-old, when she took up the role in 1977. "This show was going to be canceled when we started," she says with a laugh, addressing Shriner. A video confirmed Kate was alive. Constance Towers to reprise role as GH's Helena Cassadine, The 50th Annual Daytime Emmys will air this June on CBS, William Lipton stepping away as General Hospital's Cameron, "Heartbroken" Days of our Lives star Victoria Grace withdraws herself from Daytime Emmys contention, The Young and the Restless star Eric Braeden reveals he is being treated for cancer, Is Hope in love with Thomas? I mean, obviously people have come back from much worse deaths! Genie Francis began her journey in the smash-hit series "General Hospital" as a teenager in 1977, playing the role of Laura Spencer. Also, Ethan Lovett (James Ryan) is out and headed to Australia. Do you want there to be? Josh Swickard Teases Chase and Brook Lynns Future on GH. Thank you @valentinifrank and @GeneralHospital for remembering! . And you may have to have them more than once.". And Tony? [2] Her father was Canadian actor Ivor Francis. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The mega-villainess is back this month on General Hospital. General Hospital's Genie Francis Celebrates A Milestone! General Hospital's Genie Francis Won't 'Defend' Laura's Rape Scene - People Shriner: Maurice was the head of the fucking mob. It wasn't long before her character became one of the most loved in daytime television history. Josh Swickard Teases Chase and Brook Lynns Future on GH. Ive been very fortunate to share a lot of my life with a lot of these people here.. Finola Hughes Teases Her Exciting New Project! Its a break in their day, the ones who are watching in the daytime. Why has it lasted 60 years? Dancing with him I mean, he wasnt falling in love with me, but I was falling in love with him. Genie Francis - Wikipedia So make sure you keep watching GH to see what Victor gets up to while Lauras away, and keep checking back here at SoapsInDepth.com for updates on when Francis will be returning to the show! They don't often tell us that -- they keep that very quiet," she teased. Hes back to check on his good friend Anna Devane (Finola Hughes), who nearly died at Vics hand. How do you feel about Genie Francis taking a summer break from GH? See whats happening to them today.. "This all goes back to what makes Laura 'Laura,'" she said. We have a beginning, a middle and an end. Francis owned a store called The Cherished Home. I had a good 25 years, Im good. General Hospital Spoilers: Will Tracy make Victor pay and avenge Luke's death? Here's a brief rundown: On February 8, 1977, Laura was back on the scenes, as Lesley tracked down a bitter Laura who was at the time living in a commune in Canada. By Chris Eades July 15, 2022 Tags: Genie Francis ABC/Christopher Willard As many fans suspected, that phone call will help facilitate Laura leaving GENERAL HOSPITAL as actress Genie Francis takes some time off to enjoy her summer vacation! Next week, a body turns up, and its likely Victor. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'soapcentral_com-leader-2','ezslot_22',140,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-soapcentral_com-leader-2-0'); Francis shared on social media that "[i]t doesnt feel like forty-five years. She returned to General Hospital in 1983 for a limited run, to coincide with the departure of Luke when Anthony Geary decided to leave the series. Likely, she has also appeared on ' All My Children and 'The Young and the Restless .' Genie Francis: Age, Parents, Siblings, Ethnicity I guess I believe it now. Whats it like to play a character for so long? I did teach her to roller skate !!!! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. She's "out there" somewhere, according to B&B boss Brad Bell. After leaving in the 80s, the actress found success in primetime but also returned to soaps to appear on DAYS OF OUR LIVES and ALL MY CHILDREN. Here's what you need to know. News and More: Return to Soap Central's GH FrontPage. "I've had such a fun time on GH, and I've absolutely loved what the writers gave me to work with this season," Francis shares. All of you are such a huge part of the history of pop culture. Francis: The cable car crashed but they didnt find a body! By clicking Sign Up, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and that you have read our Privacy Policy. Laura was last seen back on July 15 when she decided to leave town and fly to Italy to help her mother, Lesley, after learning her home had burned down. I will miss my bike and my tomatoes, she added. Find out what's ahead this week on B&B, Bold Town Road: Lil Nas X makes acting debut on B&B this week, B&B's brand-new Ridge Forrester, Jr., debuts this week, B&B's Diamond White makes history in new Disney/Marvel project, chats Paris' next chapter, Y&R's Courtney Hope gives the scoop on Sally's pregnancy, Studio City, Emmy-winning series from Sean Kanan, snags 13 ISA nominations, Where is Flo? Fans of GENERAL HOSPITAL would love nothing more than to see Genie Francis back in Port Charles as Laura, but the actress herself actually prefers the quiet of her home in Maine to the hustle and bustle of Hollywood! Part of the a360media Entertainment Group.Copyright a360media 2023. Nostalgia. I remember the day that happened. Ive had to figure out how to maneuver that. As she travels back to Port Charles with Felicia, played by Kristna Wagner,she promises to make Victor pay for what he did, but Felicia is worriedthat these plans might putthem in more trouble. Francis took over the role of Laura Webber from Stacey Baldwin back in 1977 and made the character a daytime icon, especially once paired with Anthony Gearys Luke Spencer. LAST WEEK ON GH: Michael and Willow were married. You dont get that anywhere. And then with COVID, he was the first one because if it didnt succeed, who knows what would have happened? 'General Hospital' Spoilers: Why Is Genie Francis Taking A Break From Peacock renews DAYS, soap will continue through its 60th season, Kristian Alfonso teases "very clever twist" looming in her DAYS return, Miranda Wilson was "thrilled to bits" to be asked to return to Days of our Lives, Lindsay Arnold discusses her decision to step away from role as DAYS' Allie, "Shining star" Nneka Garland, an Emmy-winning GH producer, has died, GH exec shares decisions that went into tribute episode to Epiphany, General Hospital boss Frank Valentini talks about GH's 60th anniversary, General Hospital welcomes back Emma Samms as Holly. After residing in Belfast, Maine, they moved to Beverly Hills, California, in 2008 and later relocated to Calabasas, California.[24]. Who's Who: Read a biography of Laura Spencer. And to find love. A Tribute to Genie Francis on the Anniversary of her Debut as Laura Rogers: Back in 81, that was the year I will always remember. Francis took over the role of GH's Laura Webber in 1977 and immediately rose to iconic status as part of the ABC soap's pairing of Laura with Anthony Geary's Luke Spencer. (YouTube). While speaking about her dieting journey, the iconic soap actress said: "A lot of the diets I've been on have been extreme and taught me how to starve myself. Who do you think has her? REPORT: Louise Sorel returning to Days of our Lives, Days of our Lives renewed for two additional seasons, Kristian Alfonso on DAYS return: I couldn't leave the audience hanging, Miranda Wilson on DAYS return: Satisfying and fulfilling are the wrong words, Lindsay Arnold says her DAYS exit "wasn't a last-minute decision", General Hospital mourns death of producer Nneka Garland, General Hospital pays tribute to Sonya Eddy's Epiphany Johnson, General Hospital exec as show turns 60: the 70th, 80th, 90th anniversaries are in its future, Emma Samms making another return to General Hospital, DAYTIME EMMYS: Six Y&R actors earn nominations, show lands 13 total nominations. News and More: Return to Soap Central's GH FrontPage. Genie Francis is an American actress and she is well known for her portrayal of Laura Spencer on the ABC Daytime soap opera General Hospital. "But for now, I've decided to take the summer off. GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers 4/26/23: The Race to Stop Victor! We solve our problems. Wagner: Well, Im not sure if I agree with you I dont know if the show has always been led by strong women, you know? News and More: Return to Soap Central's GH FrontPage. Genie Francis joined the cast . Finola Hughes as Anna Devane, Tristan Rogers as Robert Scorpio, 1991. a lot less animosity than Ingo Rademacher. Some of the other major storylines that have brought Francis back to the canvas include the supposed (but later found to be untrue) death of Lucky; a 2001 reunion with Scotty following Luke's affair with Felicia; Laura suffering nervous breakdowns and being committed after she was led to believe she had killed Rick in the mid-2000s (which landed her the 2007 Daytime Emmy Award in the Outstanding Supporting Actress category); and a 2013 Ice Princess redo involving Laura's daughter, Lulu. Cody on GENERAL HOSPITAL Everything You Need To Know, The Truth About Mollys Endometriosis on GENERAL HOSPITAL, GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers 4/25/23: Sonny Must Choose, Daytime Emmys 2023:Everything You Need to Know. So that call about her mother, Lesley, that left Laura so worried, looks like it will be the plot twist that ushers the character off the canvas for a little while. In December 2008, she had a starring role in the Hallmark Channel movie, The Note, which earned her critical acclaim. So, it may be part of Vics storyline. Kristina Wagner: I can relate to that as well. ALSO READ:General Hospital Spoilers: Will Carly keep Willow above her hatred for Nina? DAYS SPOILER ALERT! Currently, the insane villain is trying to wipe out 80% of humanity with his deadly pathogen. She starred on Days of Our Lives as Diana Colville (a reporter who became involved with John Black, at the time believing himself to be Roman Brady) from 1987 to 1989 and on All My Children as con artist and incest victim Ceara Connor Hunter from 1990 to 1992. We took up biking this summer, Francis reported of how she and husband Jonathan Frakes got around Maine during her break. Jonathan and Genie got engaged a year later, and finally tied the knot on May 28, 1988. I am truly blessed. Be first to post one! However, Heathers presence might be the start of Esmes memory returning. GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers 4/27/23: Ninas Big Mistake! The character has left Port Charles to handle a family emergency. Cody on GENERAL HOSPITAL Everything You Need To Know, The Truth About Mollys Endometriosis on GENERAL HOSPITAL, GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers 4/25/23: Sonny Must Choose, Daytime Emmys 2023:Everything You Need to Know. Genie Francis is making her way back to the canvas as her iconic character, Laura Webber, who will be involved in "a battle for the soul" of Port Charles this November. GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers: Michael and Willows Wedding Explodes! GHs Kelly Thiebaud Is Overwhelmed By Her Emmy Nomination. Because hes so missed on screen and off. Benard: Theres no fanbase more loyal. But they did, and here we are. ", The actress says that she is "very much looking forward" to spending time with her family and relaxing a bit, but she promises that she won't be gone long: "There are some really great storylines planned for the fall," she teases, adding, "I will be back to Port Charles before you know it!". The actress opened up to TV Insider about why she's stepping away from the show but did say that her break would only be temporary. General Hospital's Genie Francis: It's a 'New' Laura Without Luke What are your thoughts on the storyline that took Laura out of Port Charles this time around? Dont miss it to see the return of Heather Webber and all the soapy drama on the ABC sudser. She also enjoyed some gardening, as well! And that was enough for me. Jeremy Stark was found dead. Reacting to the outpouring of support by her fans on social media, after she quit the show, the talented actress told TV Insider: "I was shocked. General Hospital Spoilers, 24 April 2023: From Tracy's revenge on Victor to Willow-Michael's wedding preparations, here's what you can expect. The TV star gained some excess weight as a result of menopause and having to deal with the stress of her two children leaving the house. In a 2018 interview, the actress revealed the secrets of her long-lasting marriage. But her heart is my heart on a good day, lets put it that way. inment. 'General Hospital' 60th Anniversary: Genie Francis, Stars Reflect - Variety General Hospital cast: New, leaving, and returning characters GH's William Lipton shares why Cameron Webber is leaving Port Charles, "Huge misunderstanding" means one of this year's Daytime Emmy nominees will no longer be on the ballot, Eric Braeden reveals cancer diagnosis in an emotional video to fans. @GeneralHospital pic.twitter.com/2szXxTILh5. I thought perhaps they were laying groundwork for a wonderful returnfor him. Eventually, the mother-of-two teamed up with Nutrisystem and was able to shed 30lbs in only seven months. And fans arent the only ones happy to have the daytime legend back on GH. I'm thrilled that today's audience knows even more about Laura and who she is.". In 2012, she again reprised her role as Peyton MacGruder in the Hallmark Channel movie Notes from the Heart Healer. Read more bio Tags : Actress General Hospital How has the audience changed over the years? These. "It's a wonderful surprise this deep into a character on a show, to finally have them go back and they pulled that out of my past, which is a great thing to do. Later that year, Genie received both the Young Artist Award for Best Juvenile Actress in a Daytime Series and the Soapy for Outstanding Actress. Genie Francis Talks Her Emmy Nod After Returning as Laura on 'General Im proud,very proud, to be a part of this show, Francis says. Genie Francis still delights General Hospital fans as Laura Kevin Winter/Getty Images As one half of the soap opera couple that helped save "General Hospital" in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Genie Francis began playing Laura Vining Webber Baldwin Spencer Collins on February 8, 1977 (via Soaps.com) when she was just 14 years old. News Archive: WATCH: Genie Francis reveals her issues with GH and the surprising way she became famous [Apr 15, 2016]. Bill was annoyed by Katie's feelings for Carter. GH alum Julie Berman (ex-Lulu Spencer) makes exciting announcement, Kristina Wagner thrilled to be back on contract at GH: "This is going to be fun! What are your thoughts on Bill trying to win Katie back? Apr 05, 2020 11:00 A.M. Check out the latest casting updates for the ABC soap opera. [21] It was located at 31 Searsport Avenue, Belfast, Maine 04915, and they also sold items online. Kin Shriner: I crossed the Kin-Scotty line decades ago. GH RECAPS: What you missed the Week of April 24, 2023, THE SCOOP! Finola Hughes Teases Her Exciting New Project! These grand adventures culminated in an extravagant wedding for the couple, complete with a guest appearance by Elizabeth Taylor in the role of Helena Cassadine. B&B exec Brad Bell has an answer, DAYTIME EMMYS: DAYS lands seven acting nods, plus directing, writing, and series, DAYS COMMENTARY: And if this world runs out of lovers. By clicking Sign Up, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and that you have read our Privacy Policy. #GH Christmas preview pic.twitter.com/vUOqPt5xBp, Part of the a360media Entertainment Group.Copyright a360media 2023. B&B COMMENTARY: You can call me Ray, or you can call me Jay, or you can call me R.J. LAST WEEK ON B&B: Liam questioned Hope's feelings for Thomas. On her 45th anniversary at General Hospital, Genie Francis still remains at the heart of Port Charles as Laura. Love GH? General Hospital casting updates also promise Victor Cassadine (Charles Shaughnessy) is on his way out soon. Y&R SPOILER ALERT! Once again, her fans came through in their numbers with a huge social media outcry that led producers to change their minds and offer the actress a more involved role. I came on as a child, and I based my character on my own need to be loved. Genie Francis is back on GENERAL HOSPITAL! Hear what Laura - YouTube After checking out the surprising way Luke might still live on in a whole new character, join us as we walk back through time with a look at his adventures and misadventures over the years in our photo . Francis turned 60 last year, having joined the cast of General Hospital at age 15. She also added that for a marriage to work, a couple must find a way to work out any issues between them. Benard: In the 30 years Ive been here, this is the most Ive seen it be female-driven. LAST WEEK ON Y&R: Tucker sold McCall Unlimited to Victor. About The Actor: Learn more about Genie Francis. Get all the latest General Hospital spoilers and casting updates from Soap Dirt.