GENERAL HOSPITAL As A "Short-Run Primetime Series"?

In the January 23 issue of TV Guide, the magazine reveals that one scenario being discussed for GENERAL HOSPITAL is having the drama continuing as a short-run prime-time summer series. It would be similar to Spanish-language networks' telenovelas, says an ABC insider. Those telenovelas, by the way, continue to show growth in the ratings.

Even if the cost of production doubled over the typical soap budget (around $200,000 per episode), a nighttime version of GH would still be inexpensive for an original scripted show.