“General Hospital” is daytime television’s most celebrated drama series, winning multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and still retains the record for the most-watched single-day telecast in daytime television history with the wedding of Luke and Laura Spencer (Anthony Geary and Genie Francis). Today, April 1, “GH” celebrates its 58th birthday.

“Not a joke, just a fact – ‘GH’ turns 58 today and we wouldn’t be here with you,” read a message on the show’s social channels. “On behalf of the entire cast and crew of ‘General Hospital,’ thank you for your support. Happy Anniversary!”

“Happy Anniversary ‘GH’! 58 years young! Thank you, ABC and all of the fans over the years – much love and appreciation,” added Frank Valentini, the show’s executive producer. His message was echoed by several cast members including Jon Lindstrom (Kevin Collins) and Brooklyn Rae Silzer (Emma Scorpio Drake).

“GH” is both the longest-running American soap opera currently in production and the longest-running scripted television drama currently in production. “General Hospital” has won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Daytime Drama a record 13 times. “General Hospital” was created by Frank and Doris Hursley.