On Tuesday, February 8, “General Hospital” icon Genie Francis was honored with an on-set celebration marking 45 years since her debut as Laura Spencer Collins on the daytime drama series. She was joined by several of her co-stars, including on-screen husband Jon Lindstrom (Kevin Collins) and the show’s executive producer, Frank Valentini, among others.
“Port Charles would not be the same without her or the legacy of Laura Collins,” noted Valentini on Twitter of Francis as he shared a posed photo of the two together.
“I am so fortunate to work with you and this amazing @GeneralHospital cast and crew!” stated Lynn Herring (Lucy Coe). “Thank you for paving the way & 4 all you have done for Daytime Television!!”
Newcomer Avery Pohl (Esme Prince) said, “[Genie Francis] may just be one of the kindest, most professional, and [the] hardest working person I’ve ever met!!! Really an honor to get to watch you work.”
“So happy and honored to celebrate this special milestone in the career of one of our finest!” added Charles Shaughnessy (Victor Cassadine).
“Today is one for the history books. @GenieFrancis joined the cast on this day in 1977 and we will forever be in her debt. Happy Anniversary, Genie!” read a message across the show’s social channels.
Marcus Coloma (Nikolas Cassadine) stated, “What an incredible milestone!!! Love working with you.”
“Thank you @valentinifrank and @GeneralHospital for remembering! It doesn’t feel like forty-five years. Hard to believe. I am truly blessed,” said Francis in a post on Twitter thanking everyone for their support.
Not one to miss out on the celebration, Francis’ real-life husband, Jonathan Frakes (“Star Trek: The Next Generation”) remarked, “My favorite actor and my favorite wife! Congratulations @GenieFrancis.”
For the on-set celebration, balloons with the “General Hospital” logo were ordered along with balloons when put together made up the number 45.
See photos from the event below.
Francis made her debut as Laura Webber on February 8, 1977, and went on to become one-half of daytime television’s most celebrated super couples. The wedding of Luke (Anthony Geary) and Laura in 1981 remains the most-watched in daytime broadcast history.
