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1968: The Doctors' Mike returned home.

1991: Wayne Northrop returned to Days of our Lives as Roman.

2004: General Hospital debuted a new opening.

2010: Atwt's Bob revealed Nancy Hughes had passed away."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Mike Powers (Peter Burnell in his debut) returned home, much to the delight of his father, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett).

1968: On Dark Shadows, Barnabas Collins (Jonathan Frid) and Willie Loomis (John Karlen) went to the crypt where Tom Jennings (Donald Briscoe) kept his coffin,...

1996: Nathan Hastings died on The Young and the Restless.

1996: Frankie Frame was murdered on Another World.

1996: Gh's Jason and Robin arrived in Montauk on Stone's birthday.

2013: The series finale of One Life to Live aired online."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1929: NBC Blue network broadcast Amos 'n' Andy, starring Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll, for the first time. The show ran as a nightly radio serial from 1928 (starting at local Wmaq) until 1943, then as a weekly situation comedy from 1943 to 1955.

1953: On Search for Tomorrow, Arthur Tate (Terry O'Sullivan) told Nathan Walsh...

1975: Another World's Iris took a bottle of pills.

1995: Days' Sami fainted at Austin and Carrie's wedding.

1997: An ultrasound couldn't find a heartbeat on Port Charles.

2010: As the World Turns' Barbara had a clown vision of James."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1969: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) clashed with his son, Mike (Peter Burnell), over Mike's recent behavior. Later, Mike apologized and asked Matt for advice in dealing with his feelings for Nancy Bennet (Nancy Donohue).

1975: On Another World, Iris...

1974: The Doctors' Toni learned she had a son.

1991: General Hospital's Anna and Robert were shocked by Faison.

1996: Stephen Nichols made his Gh debut as Stefan.

2010: Salem said goodbye to Alice Horton on Days."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1963: On Ben Jerrod, as the trial was reaching the conclusion, Ben's (Michael Ryan) strategy was on the verge of collapse.

Thanks to Jeff for sending in the item above.

1966: On the second episode of Dark Shadows, Victoria (Alexandra Moltke) watched as Elizabeth (Joan Bennett) collapsed,...

1967: Dark Shadows' Elizabeth confessed to murder.

1981: General Hospital's Luke was drugged.

1987: Jess Walton debuted as Jill on The Young and the Restless.

1993: All My Children's Erica married Dimitri."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1956: The final episode of radio soap opera Young Widder Brown aired on NBC Radio, completing a 22-year run. The show's epigraph: "Again we present the moving human drama of a woman's heart and a mother's love -- Young Widder Brown. In the little town of Simpsonville, attractive Ellen Brown,...

1984: All My Children's Erica was curious about Adam's first wife.

1990: General Hospital's Frisco planned a surprise for Felicia.

1994: Days of our Lives' Alice found Tom dead in their bedroom.

2003: The Young and the Restless' Jill tried to stop a wedding."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1963: James Pritchett made his first appearance on NBC soap opera The Doctors. He played a corporation president running away and having a broken back that brought me to the hospital. Pritchett returned to The Doctors on July 9, 1963, as Dr.

1974: Another World aired a one-hour special.

1983: Peter Reckell debuted on Days of our Lives.

1991: The Dallas series finale aired on CBS.

2013: Jeanne Cooper's final Y&R scene aired."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Ralph Anderson (Al Hinckley) held Matt (James Pritchett), Althea (Elizabeth Hubbard) and Nick (Gerald Gordon) hostage in Matt's office. As Maggie (Bethel Leslie) banged on the door, a gunshot went off.

1974: Another World broadcast for one hour for the first time in honor of its 10th anniversary.

1968: Dark Shadows' Professor Stokes explained the Dream Curse.

1987: Atwt's Craig and Sierra enjoyed their new baby.

1987: Knots Landing's Peter Hollister was murdered.

1992: Another World's Carl shocked Bay City with his return."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Karen (Laryssa Lauret) rushed to talk with Matt (James Pritchett) after Steve told her about the hostage situation with Ralph Anderson. Maggie (Bethel Leslie) wasn't phased when she walked in on Karen's conversation with Matt. "For once, I'm not concerned about Karen Werner's continental charms,...

1966: Peyton Place's David had parting words for Rodney.

1993: Days of our Lives' Jack and Billie were arrested.

1996: Sarah Brown debuted as Carly on General Hospital.

1999: Guiding Light's Danny welcomed his sister home."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1940: The final episode of Procter & Gamble radio soap opera Manhattan Mother aired. Written by Orin Tovrov, the show starred Kaye Brinker as Patricia Locke, who gave up a career to raise her daughter, Dale, in New York.

1966: On Peyton Place, David...

1963: The Doctors premiered on NBC, while General Hospital

made its debut on ABC."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1963: NBC premiered a new daytime drama, The Doctors, created by the Orin Tovrov. The Doctors did not start as a serial; it began as a "half-hour anthology series of medical dramas, set in the large metropolitan Hope Memorial Hospital, and with the four principals alternating daily in the lead role, according to NBC's original announcement. The roles were Dr. William Scott (played by Jock Gaynor), Dr. Jerry Chandler...

1962: Ann Flood debuted as Nancy on The Edge of Night.

1983: General Hospital's Jimmy Lee denied having Tolliver's papers.

1991: NBC's primetime Dark Shadows remake ended.

2004: One Life to Live's Paul delivered Babe's baby on All My Children."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1940: NBC's Blue Network aired the final episode of radio soap opera The Affairs of Anthony. Henry Hunter starred as Anthony Marleybone Jr.

1955: On The Inner Flame, Dorie (Jean Gillespie) asked Amelia for money.

1955: On Golden Windows, Carl...

1968: Dark Shadows' Barnabas attacked a woman trying to save him.

1983: General Hospital's Heather was arrested.

1985: Days of our Lives' Bo & Hope decided to lope.

1988: All My Children's Stuart & Cindy became engaged."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1957: On The Edge of Night, Mike Karr (John Larkin) told Charley (Ian Martin) that he intended to pursue Harry until he admitted to murdering Marilyn.

1968: On Dark Shadows, Barnabas Collins (Jonathan Frid) attacked the woman (Anita Bolster) that Joshua Collins and Countess...

1968: Angelique's portrait first appeared on Dark Shadows.

1980: The Edge of Night's Nola confessed her crimes.

1989: Another World's Vicky gave birth to a baby boy.

1996: General Hospital's Jason ran into Robin on the bridge."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) tried to console Dr. Karen Werner (Laryssa Lauret) after she received a cablegram with news of her father's death.

1968: On Dark Shadows, Natalie DuPres (Grayson Hall) saw the portrait of Josette hanging over the...

1968: Dark Shadows' Barnabas entombed Trasked.

1979: Ryan's Hope's Johnny said his peace.

1990: Gh's Robert, Sean & Anna learned Paget was Duke.

1992: All My Children's Donna & Chuck left Pine Valley."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into d ifferent and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) and Dr. Nick Bellini (Gerald Gordon) performed surgery on Nathan Bunker (House Jameson).

1968: On Dark Shadows, after forcing him to sign a confession stating Victoria Winters was not a witch, Barnabas Collins (Jonathan Frid) trapped Reverend Trask (Jerry Lacy) in...

1968: NBC daytime soap Hidden Faces premiered.

1983: Guiding Light's Phillip and Beth spent New Year's Eve in New York.

2002: The "Surrender" arc began on Port Charles.

2003: One Life to Live's Dorian visited All My Children's Pine Valley."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1963: ABC shifted General Hospital to the 3 p.m. Et time slot after nearly 9 months of airing at 1 p.m.

1964: On Another World, Pat Matthews (Susan Trustman) refused to give John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) permission to access her medical records.

Family and friends gather to celebrate Christmas on The Doctors (1967), Guiding Light (1979), General Hospital (1981), EastEnders (1986), Search for Tomorrow (1986), All My Children (1986) As the World Turns (1995), Another World (1996) and Days of our Lives (2001)."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1939: On Bachelor's Children, Sam (Olan Soule) was relieved to learn that Janet had safely given birth to a healthy child after a grueling, perilous labor. Sam's relief was so great that he appeared to be in shock and could only respond to questions with grunts and murmurs. Janet was exhausted but ecstatically happy,...

1982: The Doctors' Kit and Mike were stranded during a snow storm.

1985: Lujack's spirit visited Beth on Guiding Light.

1996: All My Children's Adam and Liza were married.

2007: General Hospital's Dillon returned and found out about Georgie's death."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1957: On The Edge of Night, Bebe Spode (Renne Jarrett) came back home and told her father, Martin Spode (Eric Dressler), how much she loved him.

1965: On Peyton Place, Betty Anderson (Barbara Parkins) met Martin Peyton (George Macready).

1968: On The Doctors,...

1967: The Doctors' Althea turned in her resignation.

1997: General Hospital's Helena returned to Port Charles.

2008: All My Children celebrated the life of Myrtle Fargate.

2011: One Life to Live's Roxy dreamed about Fraternity Row."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1966: On Peyton Place, Martin Peyton (George Macready) told a drunken Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton) that he had always been inferior.

1967: On The Doctors, Dr. Althea Davis (Elizabeth Hubbard) stopped by the home of Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) to give him her official resignation from Hope Memorial Hospital.

1975: Delia took action to save her marriage on Ryan's Hope.

1979: Deer hunters shot at Deborah on The Edge of Night.

1985: Santa Barbara's Lionel (Don Stewart) apologized to Brick.

2006: One Life to Live's Blair worried about her baby."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1946: DuMont Television Network aired the final episode of the first network TV soap opera, Faraway Hill. The show, created by David P. Lewis, premiered two and a half months earlier on October 2nd.

1967: On The Doctors, when Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) told Dr.

1967: The Doctors' Matt was annoyed to find Nick and John

arguing again. 1986: Ryan's Hope's& Rick wanted more time with

Ryan. 1995: One Life to Live's Viki remembered Tori killed

Victor. 2003: As the World Turns' Rose D'Angelo died."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1957: On The Edge of Night, Ed Parmalee (Les Damon) confessed his guilt to Mike Karr (John Larkin) about stabbing Bruce Thompson in the back.

1967: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) interrupted the latest heated argument between Dr. Nick Bellini (Gerald Gordon) and Dr.

1966: David found Victoria on Dark Shadows.

1982: Holly's preliminary hearing began on Gh.

1988: Gl's Ben wanted to know if Aunt Mo was his new mommy.

1999: AMC's Alex had big news for David."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1964: On Another World, on the night before Pat Matthews' (Susan Trustman) murder trial was to begin, she still refused to take the truth serum despite a last-minute plea from her father, Jim (Shepperd Strudwick).

1966: On Dark Shadows, David Collins (David Henesy) discovered Victoria Winters...

1984: Days of our Lives' Carrie decided where to live.

1985: The freedom flag was raised in Gh's Asian Quarter.

1998: Guiding Light's Danny and Michelle shared their first kiss.

2001: Atwt's Barbara & James plotted against Carly, Emily & Rose."History speaks to artists. It changes the artist's thinking and is constantly reshaping it into different and unexpected images."

― Anselm Kiefer

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1946: On Life Can Be Beautiful, Stanley (Ralph Locke) tried to take charge of Chichi's (Alice Reinheart) affairs, but Chichi refused. She had her own ideas.

1964: On Peyton Place, Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton) became incensed when Betty Anderson (Barbara Parkins...

1979: Guiding Light's Rita found out she was pregnant.

1993: General Hospital's Luke and Laura visited Bill Eckert.

2004: Days of our Lives' Abby reunited with Jennifer.

2008: ABC aired the 10,000th episode of All My Children."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1957: On The Edge of Night, Mike Karr (John Larkin) devised a plan to trick Irene into leading the police to Mary.

1965: On Days of our Lives, Julie Olson (Charla Doherty) paid a visit to her aunt, Marie Horton. Craig Merritt also visited Marie, his future daughter-in-law. Julie's father, Ben, had a fight with her lawyer and uncle,...

1965: Peyton Place's Connie told Elliot she was pregnant.

1983 All My Children's Tad tried to blackmail Marian.

1989: Santa Barbara's Brandon found Santana at his door.

1995: The "spirit" of General Hospital's Robert visited Robin."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1965: On Peyton Place, Martin (George Macready) was incensed that Steven (James Douglas) didn't see Stella's (Lee Grant) testimony coming. Meanwile, Rodney (Ryan O'Neal) checked in on Allison (Mia Farrow), Elliot (Tim O'Connor) struggled with writing a news article about Rodney's trial, and Connie (Dorothy Malone) told Elliot she was pregnant.

1968: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers...

1982: Gh's Luke and Robert searched for Holly in Canada.

1988: Gl's Rusty shot Will and tried to save Mindy.

1995: Loving's Gwyneth was revealed as the Corinth Killer.

2009: As the World Turns' Brad Snyder died."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1967: On Dark Shadows, Julia (Grayson Hall) felt guilty about telling Barnabas (Jonathan Frid) to bite Vicky. She instead offered to sacrifice herself to restore Barnabas's appearance. Though touched, he declined, noting that he needed her to continue as his doctor. In the meantime, Carolyn (Nancy Barrett) decided -- over David's (David Henesy) protests...

1968: Dark Shadows' Joe stabbed himself .

1985: Port Charles residents learned Frisco was presumed dead.

1985: Days of our Lives' Abe shot and killed Richard Cates.

2001: As the World Turns' Bryant crashed his car."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On Dark Shadows, Joe Haskell (Joel Crothers) stabbed himself with a letter opener after Angelique (Lara Parker) told him that he bored her and wanted him to go.

1973: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) reassured Dr. Althea Davis (Elizabeth Hubbard) while Dr. Nick Bellini (Gerald Gordon) performed surgery on her daughter, Penny.

1978: Gary and Valene Ewing returned to Dallas.

1984: Primetime soap Paper Dolls premiered on ABC.

1986: One Life to Live's Jessica Buchanan was born.

2011: All My Children aired for the final time on ABC."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1942: On radio soap opera Clara, Lu & Em, Clara (Fran Allison) was sick.

1969: On The Doctors, Mike Powers (Peter Burnell) picked up Julie Forrest (Ginger Gerlach) at the train station, and brought her to his parent's home. Julie told Matt (James Pritchett) and Maggie (Lydia Bruce) about her upbringing.

1975: On Ryan's Hope, Jillian Coleridge (Nancy...

1968: The Doctors' Mike returned home.

1991: Wayne Northrop returned to Days of our Lives as Roman.

2004: General Hospital debuted a new opening.

2010: Atwt's Bob revealed Nancy Hughes had passed away."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Mike Powers (Peter Burnell in his debut) returned home, much to the delight of his father, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett).

1968: On Dark Shadows, Barnabas Collins (Jonathan Frid) and Willie Loomis (John Karlen) went to the crypt where Tom Jennings (Donald Briscoe) kept his coffin, but when Barnabas opened the coffin, it was empty. Jennings...

1996: Nathan Hastings died on The Young and the Restless.

1996: Frankie Frame was murdered on Another World.

1996: Gh's Jason and Robin arrived in Montauk on Stone's birthday.

2013: The series finale of One Life to Live aired online."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1929: NBC Blue network broadcast Amos 'n' Andy, starring Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll, for the first time. The show ran as a nightly radio serial from 1928 (starting at local Wmaq) until 1943, then as a weekly situation comedy from 1943 to 1955.

1953: On Search for Tomorrow, Arthur Tate (Terry O'Sullivan) told Nathan Walsh...

1975: Another World's Iris took a bottle of pills.

1995: Days' Sami fainted at Austin and Carrie's wedding.

1997: An ultrasound couldn't find a heartbeat on Port Charles.

2010: As the World Turns' Barbara had a clown vision of James."The best prophet of the future is the past."

― Lord Byron

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1969: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) clashed with his son, Mike (Peter Burnell), over Mike's recent behavior. Later, Mike apologized and asked Matt for advice in dealing with his feelings for Nancy Bennet (Nancy Donohue).

1975: On Another World, Iris (Beverlee McKinsey) downed a bottle of sleeping pills. After taking...

1974: The Doctors' Toni learned she had a son.

1991: General Hospital's Anna and Robert were shocked by Faison.

1996: Stephen Nichols made his Gh debut as Stefan.

2010: Salem said goodbye to Alice Horton on Days."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1963: On Ben Jerrod, as the trial was reaching the conclusion, Ben's (Michael Ryan) strategy was on the verge of collapse.

Thanks to Jeff for sending in the item above.

1967: Dark Shadows' Elizabeth confessed to murder.

1981: General Hospital's Luke was drugged.

1987: Jess Walton debuted as Jill on The Young and the Restless.

1993: All My Children's Erica married Dimitri."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1956: The final episode of radio soap opera Young Widder Brown aired on NBC Radio, completing a 22-year run. The show's epigraph: "Again we present the moving human drama...

1984: All My Children's Erica was curious about Adam's first wife.

1990: General Hospital's Frisco planned a surprise for Felicia.

1994: Days of our Lives' Alice found Tom dead in their bedroom.

2003: The Young and the Restless' Jill tried to stop a wedding."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1963: James Pritchett made his first appearance on NBC soap opera The Doctors. He played a corporation...

1978: Laurie Heineman and James Pritchett won Daytime Emmys.

1984: Ryan's Hope's Dave thought of Katie while marrying Maggie.

2007: Passions' Whitney couldn't forget Chad's relationship with Vincent.

2010: One Life to Live's Bo and Nora were married."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1944: On the Battle of Normandy's second day, CBS Radio aired a full lineup of soaps, listed with sponsors and a synopsis below:

9:45 a.

1980: Douglass Watson & Judith Light won Daytime Emmys.

1984: Elizabeth Taylor surprised Carol Burnett on All My Children.

1984: Days' Bo & Hope reunited after he kidnapped her.

1997: Oltl's Dorian was not pleased with Todd's parrot."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1940: On radio soap opera Young Widder Brown, Ellen (Florence Freeman) was romanced by Dr. Anthony Loring (Ned Weaver).

1968: On Dark Shadows, Carolyn (Nancy Barrett) began to experience the dream curse,...

1968: Dark Shadows' Professor Stokes explained the Dream Curse.

1987: Atwt's Craig and Sierra enjoyed their new baby.

1987: Knots Landing's Peter Hollister was murdered.

1992: Another World's Carl shocked Bay City with his return."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Karen (Laryssa Lauret) rushed to talk with Matt (James Pritchett) after Steve told her about the hostage situation with Ralph Anderson. Maggie...

1974: Another World aired a one-hour special.

1983: Peter Reckell debuted on Days of our Lives.

1991: The Dallas series finale aired on CBS.

2013: Jeanne Cooper's final Y&R scene aired."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Ralph Anderson (Al Hinckley) held Matt (James Pritchett), Althea (Elizabeth Hubbard) and Nick (Gerald Gordon) hostage in Matt's office. As Maggie (Bethel Leslie) banged on the door,...

1963: The Doctors premiered on NBC, while General Hospital

made its debut on ABC."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1963: NBC premiered a new daytime drama, The Doctors, created by the Orin Tovrov. The Doctors did not start as a serial; it began as a "half-hour anthology series of medical dramas, set in the large metropolitan Hope Memorial Hospital, and with the four principals alternating daily in the lead role,...

1966: Peyton Place's David had parting words for Rodney.

1993: Days of our Lives' Jack and Billie were arrested.

1996: Sarah Brown debuted as Carly on General Hospital.

1999: Guiding Light's Danny welcomed his sister home."All true histories contain instruction; though, in some, the treasure may be hard to find, and when found, so trivial in quantity that the dry, shrivelled kernel scarcely compensates for the trouble of cracking the nut."

― Anne Brontë in "Agnes Grey"

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1940: The final episode of Procter & Gamble radio soap opera Manhattan Mother aired. Written by Orin Tovrov, the show starred Kaye Brinker as Patricia Locke,...

1962: Ann Flood debuted as Nancy on The Edge of Night.

1983: General Hospital's Jimmy Lee denied having Tolliver's papers.

1991: NBC's primetime Dark Shadows remake ended.

2004: One Life to Live's Paul delivered Babe's baby

on All My Children."Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."

― Machiavelli

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1940: NBC's Blue Network aired the final episode of radio...

1968: Dark Shadows' Barnabas attacked a woman trying to save him.

1983: General Hospital's Heather was arrested.

1985: Days of our Lives' Bo & Hope decided to lope.

1988: All My Children's Stuart & Cindy became engaged."Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."

― Machiavelli

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1957: On The Edge of Night, Mike Karr (John Larkin) told Charley (Ian Martin...

1968: Angelique's portrait first appeared on Dark Shadows.

1980: The Edge of Night's Nola confessed her crimes.

1989: Another World's Vicky gave birth to a baby boy.

1996: General Hospital's Jason ran into Robin on the bridge."Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."

― Machiavelli

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) tried to console Dr. Karen...

1968: Dark Shadows' Barnabas entombed Trasked.

1979: Ryan's Hope's Johnny said his peace.

1990: Gh's Robert, Sean & Anna learned Paget was Duke.

1992: All My Children's Donna & Chuck left Pine Valley."Whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times. This arises from the fact that they are produced by men who ever have been, and ever shall be, animated by the same passions, and thus they necessarily have the same results."

― Machiavelli

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1968: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) and Dr. Nick Bellini (Gerald Gordon) performed surgery on Nathan Bunker...

1968: NBC daytime soap Hidden Faces premiered. 1983: Guiding

Light's Phillip and Beth spent New Year's Eve in New York.

2002: The "Surrender" arc began on Port Charles. 2003: One

Life to Live's Dorian visited All My Children's Pine Valley."History is a vast early warning system."

― Norman Cousins

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1963: ABC shifted General Hospital to the 3 p.m. Et time slot after nearly 9 months of airing at 1 p.m.

1964: On Another World, Pat Matthews (Susan Trustman) refused to give John Randolph (Michael M. Ryan) permission to access her medical records.

1968: NBC daytime soap opera Hidden Faces premiered. Created by Irving Vendig, the...

Family and friends gather to celebrate Christmas on The Doctors

(1967), Guiding Light (1979), General Hospital (1981),

EastEnders (1986), Search for Tomorrow (1986),

All My Children (1986) As the World Turns (1995),

Another World (1996) and Days of our Lives (2001).

"History is a vast early warning system."

― Norman Cousins

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1939: On Bachelor's Children, Sam (Olan Soule) was relieved to learn that Janet had safely given birth to a healthy child after a grueling, perilous labor. Sam's relief was so great that he appeared to be in shock and could only respond to questions with grunts and murmurs. Janet was exhausted but ecstatically happy, and moved by the fact that her baby daughter's...

1982: The Doctors' Kit and Mike were stranded during a snow storm.

1985: Lujack's spirit visited Beth on Guiding Light. 1996: All

My Children's Adam and Liza were married. 2007: General

Hospital Dillon returned and found out about Georgie's death."History is a vast early warning system."

― Norman Cousins

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1957: On The Edge of Night, Bebe Spode (Renne Jarrett) came back home and told her father, Martin Spode (Eric Dressler), how much she loved him.

1965: On Peyton Place, Betty Anderson (Barbara Parkins) met Martin Peyton (George Macready).

1968: On The Doctors, Phillip Townsend III (Ralph Purdum) continued to hold Liz Wilson captive.

1971: On The Doctors,...

1967: The Doctors' Althea turned in her resignation.

1997: General Hospital's Helena returned to Port Charles.

2008: All My Children celebrated the life of Myrtle Fargate.

2011: One Life to Live's Roxy dreamed about Fraternity Row."History is a vast early warning system."

― Norman Cousins

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1966: On Peyton Place, Martin Peyton (George Macready) told a drunken Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton) that he had always been inferior.

1967: On The Doctors, Dr. Althea Davis (Elizabeth Hubbard) stopped by the home of Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) to give him her official resignation from Hope Memorial Hospital. Althea was pregnant and unmarried at the time,...

1966: David found Victoria on Dark Shadows but left

without helping her. 1982: Holly's preliminary hearing got

underway on Gh. 1988: Gl's Ben wanted to know if "Aunt Mo" was

his new mommy. 1999: AMC's Alex had big news for David."History is a vast early warning system."

― Norman Cousins

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1964: On Another World, on the night before Pat Matthews' (Susan Trustman) murder trial was to begin, she still refused to take the truth serum despite a last-minute plea from her father, Jim (Shepperd Strudwick).

1966: On Dark Shadows, David Collins (David Henesy) discovered Victoria Winters (Alexandra Moltke) in the secret room...

1975: Delia took action to save her marriage on Ryan's Hope.

1979: Deer hunters shot at Deborah on The Edge of Night.

1985: Santa Barbara's Lionel (Don Stewart) apologized to Brick.

2006: One Life to Live's Blair worried about her baby."History is a vast early warning system."

― Norman Cousins

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1946: DuMont Television Network aired the final episode of the first network TV soap opera, Faraway Hill. The show, created by David P. Lewis, premiered two and a half months earlier on October 2nd.

1967: On The Doctors, when Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) told Dr. Althea Davis (Elizabeth Hubbard) that she had...

1967: The Doctors' Matt was annoyed to find Nick and John

arguing again. 1986: Ryan's Hope's& Rick wanted more time with

Ryan. 1995: One Life to Live's Viki remembered Tori killed

Victor. 2003: As the World Turns' Rose D'Angelo died."History is a vast early warning system."

― Norman Cousins

"Today in Soap Opera History" is a collection of the most memorable, interesting and influential events in the history of scripted, serialized programs. From birthdays and anniversaries to scandals and controversies, every day this column celebrates the soap opera in American culture.

On this date in...

1957: On The Edge of Night, Ed Parmalee (Les Damon) confessed his guilt to Mike Karr (John Larkin) about stabbing Bruce Thompson in the back.

1967: On The Doctors, Dr. Matt Powers (James Pritchett) interrupted the latest heated argument between Dr. Nick Bellini (Gerald Gordon) and Dr. John Rice (Terry Kiser).

1970: Actress Carolyn Craig,...