ABC Cancels THE REVOLUTION, Renews GENERAL HOSPITAL

Deadline.com reports that the ABC network has renewed its only remaining daytime drama series GENERAL HOSPITAL, while canceling its latest talk show endeavor THE REVOLUTION. In addition, the network will add a 'Good Morning America' afternoon show beginning this summer. 

Recently it was announced that General Hosptial's long-time 3:00 pm time slot would be filled by Katie Couric's new syndicated talk show this fall. The Revolution has been underperforming in the daytime ratings race and will air its last show this July. After that, a special 'Good Morning America' hour-long show will take its place. Details about the new show have not been revealed, but it is expected to be a lighter version of GMA's morning show. Tentatively titled 'GMA In The Afternoon', the show is expected to feature some of the morning show hosts including Josh Elliott and Lara Spencer. 

In recent months, General Hospital, has been earning higher ratings than both The Chew and The Revolution. It recently drew 2.26 million viewers for the week of March 26, up a tenth from the previous week. The Chew (2.21 million) was up 8%, while ratings for The Revolution remained low, averaging 1.33 million viewers.

General Hospital, which recently marked 49 years on the air on April 1, will celebrate its 50th anniversary next April. It is the longest-running  soap opera in the country currently in production. Created by husband-and-wife team Frank and Doris Hursley, the drama also holds the record for most Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series.