Soaptown U.S.A. Asks Five Questions Of Your GH Favorites

 MICHAEL EASTON

By: Lois Troutman

Soaptown U.S.A.: You have made the transition to GH seamlessly. Your integration to the GH cast has been a delight to watch. You surely did get a reception up to the rafters as you entered the Empire room for the General Hospital fan luncheon. What did it mean to you to walk in there to such a warm welcome?
Michael Easton: It was both unexpected and humbling. At the same time I was very grateful. Although the cast and crew at General Hospital had made me feel welcome from the outset, I was not aware of how the audience would react to the character. Certainly from my point of view, the transition did not always feel "seamless" -- the storyline, in which John had to distance himself from his family in Llanview and that we would be unable to see these characters onscreen for a variety of reasons resulted in maybe the most difficult time I've had in playing John McBain. Which is what made the luncheon so rewarding for me. As I was interacting with the fans, I came to realize most of them understood the limitations and the logistics of the storyline and we're really just enjoying the new energy that was being generated between the character and all the amazing actors that make up the General Hospital Universe. So if I'm being entirely honest that warm reception meant more than I'll ever let on.


Soaptown: Now that you are back on the same show with Kelly Monaco many Port Charles faithfuls have been waiting to see you working together again. The incredible rapport you two possess has not missed a beat. Do you think that the reason Sam and John feel there is a connection is due to your previous characters of Caleb and Olivia? It would be great to pay homage somehow through flashbacks. Do you think this could be done effectively?
Easton: What was it that Faulkner said? "The past is never dead. It isn't even past." Some days it feels that way. I'll look into Kelly's eyes and it's as if nine years hasn't gone by. She's good that way. You can get lost in her. It's also what makes her such a wonderful actor. All that being said I'm not quite sure how you would incorporate Caleb and Olivia into General Hospital. I think they need to exist in a very special, almost innocent, realm and that might be difficult to recreate.


Soaptown: John and Sam have this unexplainable connection that has been part of their story. It is hoped by some they will develop a romantic connection. Also that John needs to be free to go forward with GENERAL HOSPITAL stories. What do you hope for John on GH?
Easton: Truthfully, I have very few hopes or expectations. It was very unexpected being asked to join the cast and at this time I am a guest in their house. I very much enjoy playing in their sandbox but I'm taking it day by day and just enjoying every moment.


Soaptown: The personality of John has undergone a makeover on GH. The dialogue has been snappier, sassier, you can finally let loose and "come out and play"! We love seeing the brighter, wise cracking side of John! You have had some wonderful lines! How do you feel about being able to finally play this side of John?
Easton: It was just time for a change. You take your act on the road and you can't just play the same old hits. You have to crack out the new material once and awhile.

Soaptown: It is our distinct honor and pleasure to give you our support. What would you like to say to your ever growing legion of fans?
Easton: You've never met anyone more grateful for the kindness and loyalty that has been shown to me and my family by the daytime audience. If I may borrow from Gehrig, "Today, I am the luckiest man on the face of the earth."