The world of daytime dramas is both demanding and rewarding, with head writers playing a crucial role in shaping the storylines that keep audiences engaged day after day.
As General Hospital enters its 60th year on the air, the responsibility of maintaining its iconic status
has been passed on to long-time writing veterans Elizabeth Korte and Chris Van Etten.
In a rare conversation with TV Insider, the duo opened up about their experiences, their collaboration,
and the pressure of keeping the beloved soap opera fresh while honoring its rich history.
Honoring the Legacy While Moving Forward
When it comes to writing for General Hospital, Korte and Van Etten understand the weight of the task at hand. As head writers, they must balance the expectations of a loyal fanbase with the need for fresh, exciting storylines. Korte, who has been with General Hospital for over 30 years, stressed the importance of maintaining the trust of both the audience and the cast. She explained, “It’s an incredible responsibility. We must honor the show’s history and the audience’s love for it, as well as the work of all those who preceded us – all while creating new stories to challenge and grow its characters.”
The writers see themselves as stewards of the show’s legacy. As the soap opera has evolved over the decades, Korte and Van Etten are determined to preserve what makes General Hospital so special while also pushing its characters and storylines in new directions. “We’re privileged to write for such a talented cast, many of whom have embodied their roles for decades. It’s humbling,” Korte said. Their approach involves carefully tracking the characters’ histories while evolving their arcs to keep them engaging for both new and longtime viewers.
The Vision for GH: Volatile and Sexy
As for the creative direction of the show, Korte and Van Etten have a clear vision for 2025. They described the current tone of General Hospital as “volatile and sexy,” a mix of high drama and compelling romance. This bold approach reflects the dynamic nature of Port Charles, where relationships, betrayals, and intense conflicts are always just around the corner. The writers are committed to keeping the stories unpredictable, ensuring that the audience remains hooked with each episode.
Korte emphasized the importance of the chemistry between the writers and their cast, noting that her decades of experience on General Hospital have helped her understand the nuances of the characters. “I hope that my history with the show enables me to understand the characters, to hear their voices clearly, to honor their complex history, and to track off that history as we move them forward,” she shared. Korte’s deep connection to the show’s legacy allows her to guide the characters with an understanding of their past, while Van Etten’s enthusiasm and creativity bring fresh perspectives to the stories they craft together.
Highlights from 2024: A Year of Drama and Tragedy
Reflecting on 2024, Korte and Van Etten pointed to several memorable moments that stood out in the General Hospital storyline. The returns of fan-favorite characters like Jason, Lucas, Lucky, Ric, and Lulu brought much-needed excitement and drama to the show. At the same time, the tragedies that affected the residents of Port Charles, including Kristina’s fall, Sam’s death, and Gregory’s passing, left a lasting emotional impact on both the characters and the viewers.
The writers also highlighted the Quartermaine family drama, which remained a central focus throughout the year. From family conflicts to heartfelt reunions, the Quartermaines provided some of the most powerful moments of 2024. Additionally, the expansion of the Scorpio family and key moments such as Bobbie’s memorial and Lulu’s reunion with her mother, Laura, added depth and emotion to the soap’s narrative.
These significant events illustrate the balance that Korte and Van Etten strive for: mixing personal tragedy with triumph, love with betrayal, and hope with loss. This combination is what keeps General Hospital a compelling and dynamic show, resonating with audiences across generations.
Collaborative Creativity: Finding Common Ground
As with any creative partnership, Korte and Van Etten occasionally find themselves at odds on certain storylines. However, they view these moments as opportunities for growth and collaboration. Korte described their working relationship as one that fosters an open atmosphere where any idea, even the “ludicrous” ones, can be explored. “Sometimes when we rein it in, the ludicrous idea is the most exciting one,” Korte explained, acknowledging that some of the most innovative stories come from thinking outside the box.
When disagreements arise, the pair makes it a point to discuss their differing ideas and find common ground. This open communication is essential in creating the cohesive and engaging narratives that General Hospital fans have come to expect. Van Etten, who brings his own wealth of experience and creativity to the team, plays a key role in shaping the show’s direction alongside Korte.
Looking Ahead: The Future of GH
As General Hospital continues into its 60th year, the creative team behind the scenes remains committed to maintaining the show’s iconic status. Korte and Van Etten’s dedication to the craft of soap writing is evident in their thoughtful approach to the show’s rich history and evolving storylines. As they look to the future, they are focused on ensuring that General Hospital remains as compelling and relevant as ever, delivering the drama, romance, and intrigue that fans have come to love.
In the ever-changing world of daytime television, General Hospital has proven that with talented writers, a dedicated cast, and a commitment to storytelling, it will continue to thrive for many years to come.
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