Why General Hospital’s Daniel Goddard Felt His Time on Young & Restless ‘Amounted to Nothing’ — Plus, What’s Next for Dalton
Daniel Goddard’s unexpected return to the world of daytime television has reignited conversations regarding his portrayal of Professor Dalton on “General Hospital.” After nearly six years away from the soap opera scene, fans are eager to know more about Goddard’s journey back to the small screen and his reflections on his past role as Cane Ashby on “The Young and the Restless.” Despite his years of experience, Goddard admitted that he struggled with feelings of uncertainty when he was initially approached for a new role. He candidly expressed that he felt his previous time on “Y&R” amounted to nothing, leaving him apprehensive about stepping back onto the set.
The Journey Back to Daytime Television
When Goddard received a call about auditioning for a new role after his hiatus, he approached it with nervousness. His initial hesitation stemmed from a fear of not measuring up to the expectations set by his previous work on “The Young and the Restless.” Not only did he worry that he might disappoint long-time fans, but he also grappled with the idea of whether his past experiences would translate into success in this new opportunity. He expressed those feelings openly, acknowledging that this anxiety is common among actors stepping back into the limelight after a considerable break.
Much to his surprise, after auditioning for a part that ultimately went to another actor, Goddard found himself presented with the opportunity to embody the new character of Dalton. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as he described it as a chance for a “do-over” in his acting career. The shift in narrative allowed him to explore new facets of his acting abilities in an environment where he could bring a fresh perspective.
The Differences Between the Shows
As he delves into his character, Goddard reflects on the stark contrasts between “The Young and the Restless” and “General Hospital.” He highlighted a significant difference in the scripting process: on “Y&R,” actors receive complete scripts, allowing them to prepare their performances fully. However, in “General Hospital,” actors are provided only the pages relevant to their characters, which significantly alters the acting dynamic. This method fosters a sense of trust in the unfolding storyline, as actors must respond instinctively to the script and rely on their character’s relationships and context.
Additionally, Goddard’s transition to “General Hospital” was eased by reconnecting with familiar faces from his past. In particular, he mentioned feeling comfort in working alongside actors like Genie Francis and Tristan Rogers. Their shared experiences and camaraderie within the industry helped create a welcoming atmosphere as Goddard settled into his new role.
What’s Next for Dalton?
Despite the initial apprehensions he faced, Goddard is optimistic about what lies ahead for Professor Dalton. He expressed excitement about exploring the darker and more complex aspects of the character’s narrative. As the story develops, audiences can look forward to uncovering the myriad layers of Dalton’s backstory, reflecting the ongoing evolution that soap operas often present.
The dynamic nature of “General Hospital” allows for various storytelling avenues, giving Goddard the opportunity to showcase his talents in a fresh light. He appears eager to embrace the challenges of bringing a new character to life and looks forward to the creative process that comes with unfolding new storylines within the show’s ongoing narrative.
As fans anticipate what the future holds for Professor Dalton, Daniel Goddard’s journey serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in the world of daytime television. His return not only rejuvenates his career but also brings with it a wave of nostalgia for fans who remember his earlier work. With the potential for captivating arcs and character development, the next chapter in this journey promises to be an exciting one for both Goddard and “General Hospital” viewers alike.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the soap opera scene, the transformation of Daniel Goddard and his role as Professor Dalton is bound to keep you engaged. Make sure to tune in and witness the unfolding storylines—there’s plenty more to come!
