The celebrated soap opera stars of *General Hospital*, Maurice Benard and Genie Francis, have shared insights on the noticeable decline of couples in contemporary soap operas. During a recent episode of the *State of Mind* podcast, the actors discussed how the genre, once defined by its iconic pairings, is now favoring solo narratives over romantic entanglements.
Benard, who has portrayed Sonny Corinthos since 1993, expressed his concern about the current trend. “Let me tell you something. They don’t do couples anymore,” he remarked. Francis, known for her role as Laura Spencer, concurred, highlighting how couples used to be central to the storytelling of soap operas.
Changes in Intimacy and Storytelling
The conversation turned towards how the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced this shift. Francis suggested that the pandemic might have altered the dynamics of intimacy portrayed on screen. “Do you think the pandemic changed it because of intimacy?” she asked.
Benard acknowledged the possibility, stating, “Maybe. Yeah. It could be.” He added that while he respects the creative choices of the show’s current writers, he believes a return to focusing on couples could reinvigorate the genre. “They should get back to couples,” he emphasized, suggesting that such a shift could enhance viewer engagement.
Over the years, *General Hospital* has produced numerous memorable couples, including Sonny & Brenda, Luke & Laura, and Lois & Ned. These relationships not only captivated audiences but also contributed significantly to the show’s legacy.
The Legacy of Iconic Couples
Benard’s character has experienced numerous high-profile romances, including relationships with Brenda Barrett, Carly Spencer, and Alexis Davis. His chemistry with these characters has been a hallmark of the series, with many fans recalling his passionate storylines fondly. Currently, *General Hospital* is exploring a new relationship between Sonny and Assistant District Attorney Justine Turner.
Francis’s character, Laura, has had her share of significant relationships as well, with her romance with Luke Spencer particularly standing out. Their wedding in 1981 became a cultural phenomenon, solidifying their status as one of the most iconic supercouples in soap opera history.
As the genre evolves, the reflections from Benard and Francis highlight a critical aspect of soap operas: the power of love stories in captivating audiences. Their insights suggest that while times change, the essence of storytelling through relationships remains a vital component, one that many viewers still cherish.
The decline of couple-centric narratives in soap operas raises important questions about the future direction of the genre. As *General Hospital* continues to develop its storylines, the potential return to couple-focused plots may not only please long-time fans but also attract a new generation of viewers seeking the emotional connection that these relationships provide.
