Go here to see pics and spoilers for upcoming GH episodes!

Chad Brannon, who played Zander Smith from 2000 to 2004, will be back for one episode in mid-to-late December as part of the Rebecca storyline.

Breaking Casting News ~ Natalia Livingston Bids Adieu to General Hospital

James Franco (famous for starring in Spider-Man, Freaks and Geeks, et al.) is joining the cast of General Hospital. His first airdate is 11/20. More info at http://abc.soapsindepth.com/latebreakingnews/

SOD 11/24/09

Ratings for 10/26: 1.8

James Franco debuts on 11/20 as Franco.

Scott Reeves appears on 12/9 as Steven Lars Webber, when he takes over as the hospital’s new chief of staff.

Laura Wright is staying on the show as Carly Corinthos Jacks!

Johnny Learns Dominic’s Secret!  Still reeling from the death of his sister, Claudia, Johnny’s week goes from bad to worse.  As Johnny eyes Sonny for his role in Claudia’s demise, a photo of her dead body surfaces at Olivia’s place, accidentally left behind by Detective Falconeri.  After clashing with Olivia, Johnny overhears a talk between Lulu and Dominic and discovers Dominic’s secret. 

Johnny shows he’s a loose cannon on 11/23, while Matt hits it off with Lisa and Dominic has an uneasy feeling.  Jason faces a new dilemma on 11/24, while Lucky demands some answers and Johnny turns against Sonny.

What Will Happen: Nikolas confesses to Rebecca.  Johnny learns the truth about Dominic.  Jason’s stalker makes a strange move.

SOW 11/24/09

Laura Wright is staying on the show as Carly!

Dante’s Secret is Uncovered!  Dante’s secret is uncovered while he is digging into who is threatening to expose the cover-up of Claudia’s murder.  Things start to fray at the seams when Dante discovers Lulu in Sonny’s office, having a private conversation.  Dante worries that she is selling him out, but his fears are allayed because he figures out that she might have been asking groundwork questions.  When Sonny asks Dominic to find out who sent Jason a photo of Claudia’s corpse, the assignment could get Dante closer to his ultimate goal.  A suspicious Dante takes the graphic photograph straight to Olivia, to warn her about Sonny.  He suspects that Johnny is the photographer, and wants his mother to dump him before he takes bloody revenge.  But then Dante gets careless himself when he confronts Lulu on the docks at the same time that Johnny is skulking around the waterfront.

This Week: Lulu frets about Luke doing business with Sonny.  Jason worries about setting a good example for Michael.  Patrick’s old girlfriend, Lisa, makes him and Robin both uneasy.  Maxie knows more than she’s telling about Claudia.  Jason enlists Spinelli in tracking down his mystery tormentor.

Can’t Miss: Johnny confronts Olivia about Dominic’s true identity on 11/19.

Highlight of the Week: Golden Globe winner James Franco makes his soap debut on 11/20.

Next Week: Johnny turns on an ally.  Lisa discovers a new friend.  Morgan hatches a plan.  Lucky demands some answers from Sonny.  Dominic gets a bad feeling.

SOD 11/17/09

Scott Reeves joins the show in the recurring role of Elizabeth’s half brother, Steven Lars Webber, and will begin airing in early December.

Ratings for 10/19: 1.7

Marsha Thomason plays opposite James Franco during his Port Charles gig this month.  Her character hasn’t been named yet.

Natalia Livingston’s (Rebecca Shaw) return will wrap up before the end of the year.

Lulu panics when she learns that Luke is doing business for Sonny on 11/16, while Anthony plans his next move and Jason gets an unsettling surprise.  Jason’s on the hunt for a madman on 11/17, while Elizabeth begs Luke not to spill to Lucky about her and Nikolas.

What Will Happen: Olivia pleads with Lulu to keep Dominic’s secret.  Kristina covers for Kiefer.  Liz blows up at Nikolas.  Jax wants to pin a murder rap on Sonny.

Nathan Parsons (Ethan) is featured in the take five interview! 

SOW 11/17/09

Marsha Thomason will join the show later this year as a mystery woman involved in James Franco’s top-secret story.

Lucky Likes It, And Puts A Ring On It!  Lucky gives Elizabeth a ring to seal their permanent lock this week, not realizing that Nikolas still holds the key to her heart.  Fresh from making love with Nikolas again, Elizabeth is anguished to overhear Rebecca telling Lucky how lucky Liz is to have a man love her the way he does.  Hoping to iron out some of the wrinkles in their relationship, Lucky plans a romantic evening and decides to give Elizabeth an engagement ring, but Elizabeth still seems a bit shaky.  Elizabeth seems to be on the verge of clarifying things by confessing her infidelity, when Rebecca and Nikolas arrive, spoiling the moment.  In fact, Liz and Lucky go home and make love.  Lucky later tells his brother about it, when they meet up at Emily’s tomb to mark the anniversary of her death.

After killing Claudia, Michael thinks it’s finally time to join the family business.  Drew Garrett explains why Michael is ready to follow in his father’s bloody footprints.  Jason is concerned that Michael doesn’t seem to be showing much remorse for what he did to Claudia.  Michael is in denial about the whole thing.  Michael certainly seems darker, especially when he dispatches Milo and Max to send Kiefer “a message.”

Carly Kicks Jax To The Curb!  Jax may be able to live with covering up his brother’s involvement in Michael’s shooting, but Carly decides this week that she cannot live with him.  Carly throws him out of the house, but is willing to cut Jason some slack.  For his part, Jax finds it hard to swallow covering up Michael killing Claudia and isn’t willing to give up because he wants to be near his daughter.

This Week: Lulu tells Olivia that she knows Dominic’s secret.  Luke calls Nikolas on his affair with Elizabeth.  A crazed Anthony orders Joey to kill Sonny.  Robin tells Patrick she’s not jealous when his ex contacts him.  Kristina lies to protect the abusive Kiefer.

Can’t Miss: Dante gets the break he needs to take down Sonny on 11/13.

Next Week: Lucky suspects that Maxie is keeping a secret.  Dante worries about Johnny’s sanity.  Lulu fears for Luke’s safety.  Elizabeth mulls coming clean.  A trap is laid for Jason and Sonny. 

SOD 11/10/09

Ratings for 10/12: 1.7

Julie Mond has been cast in the contract role of Lisa Niles, Patrick’s former girlfriend.  Her first air date is 11/18.

Sarah Brown’s stint as Claudia Zacchara has come to an end, since the character dies this week.

Jason grows more concerned about Michael’s behavior on 11/9, while Carly and Jax reach an impasse and Elizabeth is riddled with guilt.  Luke confronts Nikolas about his affair with Liz on 11/10, while Anthony vows revenge and Dominic warns Sonny that trouble is brewing.

What Will Happen: Dominic confesses to Lulu.  Someone is obsessed with Jason.  Johnny jumps to conclusions about Sonny.  Michael proves that he is his father’s son.

SOW 11/10/09

Scott Reeves has signed to play Steven Lars Webber beginning in December, the role will be on a recurring basis.

Julie Mond debuts on 11/18 as Lisa, Patrick’s notorious ex-girlfriend.

Carly Gives Birth, And Claudia Dies!  Claudia helps Carly deliver her baby this week, but then makes the fatal mistake of trying to help herself to the newborn when Carly’s firstborn is around.  The car crashes and Claudia is knocked unconscious.  Carly wakes up and gets out of the car.  She crawls through the rain until she comes upon a cabin.  Realizing that she can’t get to a hospital, Carly prepares to give birth alone.  But Claudia gets there soon with a gun in her hand.  Claudia helps deliver the baby and tries to take her, but Michael walks in.  Michael smacks Claudia across the face with a wooden stick and Claudia dies.  Suddenly, Sam and Jason appear and start to cover it up. 

This Week: Alexis extracts a promise from Sonny about Kristina’s future.  Jason is oblivious to the fact that he’s being watched.  Sonny and Olivia commiserate.  Maxie gives Johnny a dangerously wrong impression.  Luke anticipates disaster for Elizabeth and Nikolas.

Can’t Miss: Jax and Sonny are at each other’s throats on 11/6.

Next Week: Jason worries about Michael’s behavior.  Anthony vows revenge against Sonny.  Kristina covers for Kiefer.  The mystery man is definitely up to no good.

SOD 11/3/09

Claudia Is Busted!  Claudia’s house of cards finally collapses as her secrets surface, and the fallout affects just about everyone in town.  Olivia works with Carly to plan the party that Sonny is throwing in Claudia’s honor, and the women are united in their disdain for Claudia.  Claudia meets up with Olivia and reveals that she plans to tell Sonny the truth about Dante at the fete.  After the women come to blows, Olivia ends up in jail – and desperate to get to the party in time to stop Claudia from spilling the beans.  While all that is going down, Jason pays Sonny the recording of Claudia planning the hit against him with Jerry and Ian.  Sonny barely reacts, leaving Jason confused.  Then Sonny heads to the party, where he gives his wife a diamond necklace.  Olivia is sprung and arrives in time to see Sonny make a scathing toast to his beloved bride – and announce to everyone that Claudia was responsible for Michael’s shooting.  In a desperate bid to escape, Claudia grabs a hostage – the very pregnant Carly, who then goes into premature labor.  Claudia steals a car at the valet and takes off with Carly.  Carly attacks Claudia while she’s driving and the car crashes.

Tina D’Marco appears on 11/11 as Graciella, Sonny’s housekeeper.

Sarah Brown’s stint as Claudia Zacchara comes to an end the week of 11/2.

Lulu Knows … Sort Of!  Lulu makes a surprising discovery this week when she overhears a conversation between Ronnie and Dominic – and learns that her flirty new friend is an undercover cop.  However, Ms. Spencer is accidentally drugged and Dominic brings her home to sleep it off, praying that when she wakes up, Lulu won’t remember what she heard.  When Lulu comes to, she is indeed fuzzy on the details, but she will learn the truth about Dominic and will be divided by her feelings for him and her loyalty to Sonny.

Dominic, Spinelli and Lulu embark on a mission on 11/2.  Claudia makes a surprising move on 11/3, while Lulu finds herself in jeopardy and Jax realizes that Michael is missing.

*HOW SWEEPS IT IS!*  The lowdown on the hottest November stories on every show!  Desperate to protect herself after Sonny finds out that Claudia was involved in Michael’s shooting, the events that follow will change the lives of everyone involved.  Sonny and Olivia will continue to share feelings for each other, but she will remain devoted to Johnny.  Just as Dominic gets closer to bringing Sonny down, a fellow mobster will find out who he is and it’s only a matter of time before Sonny finds out that he has a son.  Jax and Carly’s joy of being new parents will be trumped by the fact that Jax lied to her about Jerry and Claudia’s involvement in Michael’s shooting.  Sam will be there for Jason every step of the way once the Claudia story explodes.  Nikolas and Elizabeth will be drowning in guilt after betraying Lucky, but neither has the strength to stay away from each other.  Luke will also find out what is going on with the duo.  Patrick and Robin’s respective insecurities about their relationship will come to the forefront.  Lulu and Dominic will get closer after a life-and-death experience brings them together.  Kristina will continue her abusive relationship with Kiefer while hiding the truth about his behavior.  Sonny, Alexis and Michael will play a major role in this story once the truth comes out.

What Will Happen: Jason drops a bombshell on Sonny.  Patrick and Robin wonder if they’re doing the right thing.  Sonny rips Claudia to shreds. 

SOW 11/3/09

Desperate Claudia Kidnaps Carly!  With her role in Michael’s shooting exposed by a vengeful Sonny, a cornered Claudia kidnaps Carly at gunpoint – triggering her labor.  Everything is set in motion when Carly agrees to organize Sonny’s party for Claudia.  The night of the gala, Carly decides that she is too tired to attend, but Dominic calls to tell her that Michael sneaked into the bash, so she goes to retrieve him.  Carly walks in right in time to hear Sonny telling everyone what Claudia did and that Jax knew about it.  Sonny tells Milo and Max to take Claudia away and that is when she pulls the gun out and takes Carly hostage and leaves.  Sonny doesn’t see Carly until she is grabbed.  Claudia forces her into a car at gunpoint and Carly starts going into labor immediately.  Carly begs to be released, but Claudia isn’t in a benevolent mood.

This Week: Patrick wrestles with his conscience.  Joey Limbo holds Johnny’s fate in his hands.  Nikolas and Ethan clash over Rebecca.  Dominic rescues a drugged Lulu.  Michael agonizes over setting tragic events in motion.

Can’t Miss: Luke spots Nikolas and Elizabeth locked in a kiss on 10/27.

Highlight of the Week: Jonathan Jackson steps back into the role of Lucky on 10/27.

Next Week: Olivia tries to comfort Jax.  Lulu finds herself in jeopardy.  Michael proves he is Sonny’s son.  Johnny leaps to a hasty conclusion.  Dominic confesses. 

SOD 10/27/09

Ratings for 9/28: 1.8

Denise Alexander (Lesley Webber) and Rachel Ames (Audrey Hardy) will appear the week of 10/19, as their grandchildren have an important announcement to make to their families.

McKinley Freeman will recur beginning on 10/29 as Detective Roy Williams, the newest member of the PCPD.

Jonathan Jackson’s first air date as Lucky Spencer is 10/27.

Barbara Tarbuck returns on 11/9 as Jane Jacks, Jax’s mom.  Tarbuck will be on a recurring basis.

Sarah Brown will wrap up her stint as Claudia Zacchara during November sweeps.

Constance Towers leaves the show on 10/20 when her character Helena Cassadine is sent to Switzerland for treatment by Nikolas.

Greg Vaughan last airs this week as Lucky Spencer.

Michael warns Johnny that he now knows the truth on 10/26, while Patrick struggles with a difficult decision.  Lulu learns Dominic’s secret on 10/27, while Ethan clashes with Nikolas over Rebecca.

What Will Happen: Dominic turns to Spinelli for help.  Jax worries that Carly will never be able to forgive him.  A new menace looms for Jason. 

SOW 10/27/09

Barbara Tarbuck returns starting 11/9 as Lady Jane, Jax’s mother.

McKinley Freeman will air on a recurring basis beginning 10/29 as Detective Roy Williams.

Dante Finds A Way To Nail Sonny!  No sooner does Dante slip through Claudia’s fingers this week than he seizes upon a cryptic clue that could hold the key to taking down Sonny: Spinelli!  But first, Dante has to find a way to avoid being used by the amorous Claudia.  Claudia isn’t the only powerful person trying to get Dominic to do their bidding: Jax is practically haunting Dante.  And Jax’s shadow isn’t the only thing Dante is seeing all over town; there’s also a bit of graffiti that just might help him satisfy Ronnie and Jax.  When Dante enlists Spinelli to do an Internet search for the symbol, he discovers how connected Spinelli is.  Dante might not have time to gain Spinelli’s confidence because Kate decides to approach him once again, at Jake’s.

**November Sweeps Preview**  Claudia’s sudden “disappearance” will have a ripple effect: Johnny will channel his Zacchara side, which will cause implications in his romance with Olivia, Dominic will pull out all the stops to bring Sonny down, but might never get the chance when others learn his true identity.  Jax and Carly will have a long road ahead repairing their marriage.  Michael will show more signs of following in his father’s footsteps, which is unsettling for Jason and Sonny.  A madman witnesses everything that happened the fateful night that Claudia takes Carly hostage.  Dominic and Lulu will get much closer after a life-and-death experience.  Lulu will learn the truth about Dominic and will be divided by her feelings for him and her loyalty to Sonny.  Patrick and Robin remain happy and devoted to each other.  Patrick’s college girlfriend will move to town, causing their respective insecurities about their relationship will come to the forefront. 

This Week: Dominic discovers a way to get to Sonny.  Olivia and Johnny can’t deny their passion.  Sam and Jason reach out to each other.  Lucky surprises Elizabeth with an engagement party.  Sonny flexes his muscles to scare off rivals.

Can’t Miss: Kate is determined to see the truth about Dante exposed on 10/23.

Next Week: Nikolas and Ethan clash over Rebecca.  Jason drops a bombshell.  Sonny makes plans for Claudia.  Carly is in trouble. 

SOD 10/20/09

Cassadine Cutoff!  The plans to launch the latest chapter of the Spencer/Cassadine feud have been delayed.  The show hired Matt Borlenghi as Valentin, but are not ready to launch his character yet.  Borlenghi was set to air on 10/14, but has been postponed until later this year.

Ratings for 9/21: 1.8

James Franco will first air on 11/20 in a role that is to be announced.

Jonathan Jackson returns on 10/27 as Lucky Spencer.  Jackson will replace Greg Vaughan, who has been playing the role since 2003.

Dominic refuses to give in to Claudia’s threats on 10/19, while Johnny refuses to give up on Olivia and Elizabeth and Nikolas reach a new understanding.  The bond between Sam and Jason grows stronger on 10/20, while Dominic clashes with Jax and Olivia and Johnny act on their feelings.

What Will Happen: Jason puts the heat on Claudia.  Kristina makes a life-changing decision.  Anthony poses a new threat.  Helena stirs up trouble for Elizabeth.

Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis) is featured in the take five interview! 

SOW 10/20/09

Shocking Recast!  In a move that sent shockwaves throughout the soap community, Jonathan Jackson reported for work on 10/1 to reprise the role of Lucky Spencer, which left Greg Vaughan, who took over the role in 2003, out in the cold.

Franco, My Dear… Franco will hit town on 11/20 and is expected to air on a recurring basis for about 2 months.  His work will primarily be in the Sam and Jason storyline, but he will also interact with other characters.

Steven Connor (Link) and Joshua Kalender (Evan) will appear on 10/13, when they each interact with Tracy and Luke.

Jordi Caballero appears on 10/21 and 10/22 as Mo, a nightclub owner in Puerto Rico during part of Anthony and Sonny’s ongoing mob drama.

Rachel Ames will appear in an episode coming up as Audrey, when she comes to Port Charles to hear the news from Lucky that he is remarrying Liz.

This November, Sarah Brown will be wrapping up her stint as Claudia.

He Don’t Need No Stinkin’  Badge… If Dante is so determined to take Sonny Corinthos down that he would spend months undercover, how does throwing away his badge help?  As far as Dante is concerned, it doesn’t matter how Sonny ends up behind bars, only that he is put there. 

Helena Cassadine returns to Port Charles greatly humbled this week.  Constance Towers diagnoses what is ailing the queen of mean.  Nikolas has his grandmother admitted to GH to deal with the poison in her system.  Helena knows that the end would have been near if she had stayed in Greece because the fear is that Valentin will kill any Spencer or Cassadine that gets in his way.  Helena knows about Elizabeth sleeping with Nikolas and is very cryptic with Lucky when she decides to make sure Elizabeth understands that she knows what happened. 

This Week: Robin courts disaster with Patrick.  Tracy is skeptical of Luke’s explanation for where he’s been.  Alexis fears Sam is a bad role model for her sisters.  Sam and Jason’s investigation is derailed by a case of mistaken identity.  Claudia pushes Olivia to the breaking point – and beyond.

Can’t Miss: Kiefer and Kristina take their relationship to the next level on 10/14.

Next Week: Johnny and Dominic defy Claudia.  Robin and Patrick return to sleuthing.  Jason circles his prey.  Michael recalls more. 

SOD 10/13/09

Ratings for 9/14: 1.8

David Gianopolous portrays Tommy Soto, the employee of Sonny’s who Dominic takes to task for being the leak in the organization.

Sal Landi debuts on 10/15 as Joey Limbo.

Claudia Blackmails Olivia!  Claudia threatens to tell Sonny that Dominic is his son unless Olivia ends things with Johnny once and for all.  To protect her child, Olivia breaks up with her beau and uses the excuse that she is still in love with Sonny.  Johnny accuses Claudia of doing something to Olivia, which Claudia denies.  Despite Olivia’s heartache, she’s not letting Claudia get the upper hand, and mentions to Jax that it is time she fought back and told Jason the truth – that Claudia is the one who ordered Michael’s shooting.

Sam talks herself out of a tight spot on 10/12, while Claudia spins a story for Sonny.  Carly faces a crisis on 10/13, while Michael remains tortured by his memories.

What Will Happen: Nikolas comes to the rescue of Ethan, Lulu and Luke.  Claudia sets out to seduce Dominic.  Robin’s plan to spice up her marriage ends in disaster.

SOW 10/13/09

Sarah Brown (Claudia) has revealed that her last tape day at the show is 10/9.

The debut of Matt Borlegnghi as Valentin has been pushed back and will still happen later this year, just not in mid-October as originally planned.

Claudia Puts The Moves On Dante!  Claudia is so desperate to raise a family with Sonny that she is willing to seduce his secret son this week to get pregnant again.  Dante first finds himself in an unnatural situation when Sonny orders him to kill Tommy Soto, the suspected leak in the Corinthos organization.  Dante pulls his badge and tells Tommy that he can either surrender to authorities or become a cooperating witness.  Tommy roughs up Dante to make it look like he escaped.  But no matter how much pain Dante is in, he could never expect to get the sort of TLC that he suddenly gets from Claudia – who tries to seduce him.  Dante takes advantage of a timely interruption to retreat, and Ronnie wants to send him right to Sonny – wearing a wire.  However, on his way to Sonny, Dante is once again waylaid by an amorous Claudia.  Claudia tries to blackmail Dante into sleeping with her by revealing that she knows that he is really Olivia’s son.

This Week: Spinelli, Jason and Sam investigate Ian Devlin.  Carly considers baby names.  An enraged Michael goes after Kiefer.  Kristina faces some mature decisions.  Robin attempts to spice up her marriage – with disastrous results.

Can’t Miss: Helena warns Nikolas that someone evil is coming for him on 10/7.

Next Week: Claudia must do some fast talking.  Luke demands answers.  Helena stirs up trouble – for Liz.  Anthony stays in the picture.  Olivia reaches her breaking point.

SOD 10/6/09

Claudia Learns Dom is Dante!  Another Port Charles resident stumbles on Olivia’s secret this week, as Claudia discovers that Dominic is Dante, Olivia’s son with Sonny.  The revelation begins innocently enough at Spinelli and Maxie’s “non-reception” when Johnny tells Olivia that he loves her.  Dominic overhears and takes his mother to task.  Olivia puts out that fire just as another starts, when Kate shows up and Olivia worries that she’ll recognize Dominic as Dante.  Kate does realize that Dominic is Dante, and Olivia whisks her outside to discuss the matter.  Olivia begs her cousin to keep the news a secret and Kate agrees.  However, the damage has been done, as Claudia overhears their conversation and learns that Dominic is Olivia’s son with Sonny.  Once inside, Claudia stalks her prey and confronts Olivia.  Olivia then tells Kate that she is concerned now that Claudia knows her secret, and Johnny overhears.  Olivia tells Johnny that Claudia is harassing her.  Johnny confronts his sister and Claudia shows up at Olivia’s home to reveal that she does know the truth.

Ratings for 9/7: 1.8

Matt Borlenghi debuts on 10/14 as Valentin Cassadine.

Amanda Brooks first appears on 9/30 as Mischa Cassadine, who is involved with Helena and Luke.

Chikezie Eze appears on 10/9 as KZ, a bartender at Jake’s.

Anthony Geary returns on 9/30 as Luke Spencer.

Constance Towers returns on 9/30 as Helena Cassadine.

Sarah Brown (Claudia Zacchara) will be leaving the show in November.

“Spixie”: They Don’t!  So what’s a girl to do when the man she’s standing with at the altar says that he doesn’t want to marry her?  While he is saying his vows, Spinelli realizes that the best way for him to love Maxie is to give her the life she wants.  He realizes that he is being selfish by trying to force this marriage on Maxie, and is incredibly grateful that she went to the lengths that she did.  Mac has a much deeper respect for Spinelli for making this decision and the crowd reacts like they did at Karaoke night!

Sonny has some surprising news for his wife about her attempt to have another baby on 10/5, while Ethan and Lulu set out to find Luke.  Dominic is faced with a serious dilemma on 10/6.

What Will Happen: Lulu and Ethan set off to find Luke, while Helena tries to contact Nikolas.  Michael confronts Claudia.  Sonny has a mission for Dominic.

SOW 10/6/09

Crazy Rumor: Elizabeth will get pregnant by Nikolas and hope for Lucky to raise yet another man’s child.

The show confirms that Sarah Brown, who returned to the show in 2008 as Claudia Zacchara, is out and her departure will be buzzworthy for November sweeps.

Amanda Brooks begins airing on 9/30 as Mischa.

David Gianopolous appears on 10/5 and 10/6 as Tommy, who Dominic fingers as the leak in Sonny’s organization.

Jamie Lea Willett appears on 10/5 as Carly’s teenage daughter – in her dream.

Chikezie Eze appears on 10/9 as KZ, a bartender.

Matt Borienghi appears on 10/14 as Valentin.

Claudia Knows Who Dante Is!  Claudia busts undercover cop Dominic this week when she uncovers the truth that he is Olivia and Sonny’s son – can he do what must be done to protect his secret?  It all starts at Spinelli and Maxie’s wedding, which Dante finds uncomfortable, to say the least.  Dominic sits behind his mom and Johnny, who are touchy-feely, which bothers him the most until Johnny professes his love for Olivia.  Things get even messier at the reception, where a drunken Kate recognizes Dante and approaches him.  Luckily, Olivia intercepts her cousin before she makes a scene.  Unfortunately, Claudia follows and eavesdrops on the Falconeri women’s ensuing conversation, and learns the Dante secret.  Then Claudia confronts Dominic/Dante.  Claudia begins picking on Olivia, trying to get a rise out of Dante.  Dante dodges that bullet, only to be faced with another explosive situation when Sonny wants Dominic to find the leak in his organization and plug it – permanently. 

This Week: Spinelli and Maxie make their wedding guests very happy.  Claudia overhears something big.  Things reach a boiling point between Kiefer and Kristina.  Alexis wants Sonny out of Molly and Kristina’s lives.  Sonny vows to change his life.

Can’t Miss: Luke and Helena return – with a problem on 9/30.

Next Week: Claudia and Olivia draw battle lines.  Lulu and Ethan hit the road.  Alexis and Carly are at odds.  Sam, Spinelli and Jason team up.  Robin’s plan leads to disaster.  Michael loses control.

Lisa LoCicero (Olivia) is featured in the just asking interview!

This just in: It sounds like Sarah Brown is leaving GH. She posted this message on Twitter: sarahjoybrown All the news that is fit to print. Claudia Zacchara has been a wild ride, every ride stops when the music ends. The Music stops mid Oct.

SOD 9/29/09

Nuptials: Here Comes The Jackal!  The wedding that no one believed was possible comes to fruition this week, as fashion plate Maxie prepares to wed computer geek Spinelli, but nerves are frayed all around.  Not surprisingly, things aren’t going smoothly.  First, there’s no location just days before the nuptials.  They end up in a Buddhist garden, which doesn’t thrill Mac and puts the men at odds.  At the rehearsal, Spinelli overhears a jittery Maxie tell Jason that while she loves Spinelli, she just doesn’t want to get married, which sends Spinelli on a mission.  Fate steps in again when, on their wedding day, Maxie has a horrific nightmare about their future and Spinelli’s heartfelt vows disappear. 

David Gianopolous appears on 10/5 and 10/6 as Tommy Soto, Sonny’s employee, who Dominic takes to task for being the leak in the organization.

Jamie Lea Willett appears on 10/5 as Carly’s “fantasy” teen daughter, when they meet in a dream.

Olivia Dumps Johnny!  Thinking she’s protecting him, Olivia tells recovering gunshot victim Johnny that they are through, once and for all.  Olivia dumps Johnny to keep him out of the Corinthos crossfire.

Patrick and Robin play matchmaker on 9/28.  Claudia discovers Olivia’s secret on 9/29, while Jason surprises Sam on her stakeout and Ethan and Lulu receive mysterious messages.

What Will Happen: Jax offers to help Dominic take down Sonny.  Michael remembers Claudia’s confession.  Spinelli and Maxie’s wedding takes an unexpected turn. 

SOW 9/29/09

Will Maxie And Spinelli Say ‘I Do’?  Spinelli finds the perfect place to marry Maxie this week, but will he be able to find the words to express how he really feels?  Spinelli thinks it would be nirvana to get hitched at a Buddhist temple, but Maxie nixes the idea, just like every other one.  Spinelli finally convinces Maxie to lay out her vision of the perfect place.  Spinelli finds the place and it ends up being Rice Manor, where Carly and Jax got married, but in a different room.  At the rehearsal, Spinelli overhears Maxie expressing concerns to Jason.  They are writing their own vows, but Spinelli loses his and has no idea what he is going to say.  Jason, as the best man, inspires the groom with his Stone Cold zen.  Armed with Jason’s advice to “speak from your heart,” Spinelli musters the courage to take his place, and the ceremony begins.  Maxie walks down the aisle, but what words will come to Spinelli?

Michael & Claudia: Fact or Fiction?  Michael doesn’t know whom to trust this week, as hallucinations mix with coma memories to leave his head spinning.  The false recollections can be quite involved.  Michael has a memory of Sam coming to visit him, but she claims that she was never at the institute.  Things get complicated when he starts to have more memories of Claudia, including her saying the bullet that wounded him was actually intended for Sonny, but he can’t decipher if it is a memory or a dream.  And Claudia is being friendly and assuring him that his fractured memories will sort themselves out.  Until then, Michael has little choice but to try to figure it out as he goes. 

Conflicted (and tipsy) over her romp with Nikolas and what it means for her kids, Elizabeth reaches out to Olivia this week.  Rebecca Herbst tips us off about Olivia’s pivoting advice.  Liz feels like she can’t be with Nikolas because of Lucky.  Olivia and Liz are both drinking at Jake’s and start talking.  Olivia says that she isn’t judging Elizabeth and suggests it might help if Liz says what happened.  Liz admits that she slept with Nikolas the same night that she accepted Lucky’s proposal.  Olivia tells Liz to focus on the boys.  Liz realizes that marrying Lucky may not be the right thing and that she knows she could be a single mom.  Liz runs into Nikolas after she’s been drinking and hugs him.

This Week: Ronnie reminds Dominic about his mission in a dangerous way.  Jason disagrees with Sonny’s methods.  Nikolas wants Ethan to take Rebecca off his hands.  Michael goes back to school.  Dominic weighs offers about where to live while recuperating.

Can’t Miss: Claudia tells Carly that she plans to have another baby with Sonny on 9/23.

Next Week: Kristina appeals for help.  Sonny has plans for Dominic.  Patrick and Robin find a new hobby.  Helena resurfaces.  Claudia uncovers a secret.

Brandon Barash (Johnny) is featured in the just asking interview. 

SOD 9/22/09

Nikolas and Liz Have Sex!  Hot on the heels of Lucky’s surprise marriage proposal, Elizabeth is torn between her feelings for her first love and her burgeoning desire for his brother.  As Liz ponders her reply to Lucky, she goes to Nikolas and confesses that she has feelings for him.  Things between the former in-laws heat up quickly.  The pair gives in to their lust and has sex.  Liz feels very guilty afterward and says that it can’t happen again, so she returns to Lucky and accepts his marriage proposal.  Nikolas doesn’t take Elizabeth’s choice lying down.

Ratings for 8/24: 1.6

Victor J. Ho appears on 9/24 as a monk who sets Mac off at Spinelli and Maxie’s wedding rehearsal.

Anthony Michael Jones returns as Father Coates on 9/24, for Spinelli and Maxie’s wedding.

Jeff Lewis appears on 9/24 as Dr. Kertz, a dentist who clashes with Olivia.

Michael remembers more about Claudia’s visits on 9/21 and Olivia tries to end things with Johnny.  Lucky wants to make a deal with Johnny on 9/22 and Claudia informs Sonny that she wants to have a baby.

What Will Happen: Nikolas offers Elizabeth his bitter congratulations.  Maxie and Spinelli get cold feet.  Michael confronts Jax.  Olivia warns Johnny not to trust Dominic. 

According to tvshowsondvd.com, "Werewolf - The Complete Series" came out on DVD 5/6/09.  John J. York (Mac) starred in this 1980's series on FOX.

SOW 9/22/09

Anthony Michael Jones returns beginning on 9/24 as Father Coates, for Spinelli and Maxie’s nuptials.

Victor J. Ho appears on 9/24 as a monk who passes through Spinelli and Maxie’s wedding rehearsal and sets Mac off.

Jeff Lewis appears on 9/24 as Dr. Kertz, a dentist who has concerns about the Metro Court.

Michael Blames Jax!  Fragmentary flashbacks force Michael to confront Jax this week, in an effort to get the whole story about his shooting.  Michael thinks that Jax could have been involved in the shooting because of the memories.  Michael is filing in the blanks, but there’s enough information to create an elaborate excuse for the things he remembers Jax saying.  Theorizing that Jax asked Jerry to remove Sonny from Carly’s life once and for all, Michael seeks out Sam’s help.  Michael assumes that if he got Jason involved, he would take it to the furthest extreme immediately.  Michael is also unwilling to let Sam plod through a long investigation, so he takes it upon himself to approach Jax, because he doesn’t accomplish too much with Sam.  Michael’s reason for going to see Jax is that he needs a check from Jax to take over to Madison Prep, because he is starting school.  Michael is trying to get the check, but Jax brings up Michael’s father and things that are linked with this flashback, so Michael can’t hold himself back and just goes for it.  It takes Jax by surprise, but he immediately denies any involvement.  Michael realizes that Jax knows more than he is saying.

This Week: Elizabeth cannot control her feelings with Nikolas or Lucky.  Johnny and Dominic survive their injuries, but find more trouble.  Sam and Jason’s reunion is exposed.  Maxie confides in Robin.  Rebecca and Nikolas get romantic.

Can’t Miss: Sonny uses Johnny as a pawn against Anthony on 9/18.

Next Week: Jason questions Sonny’s motives.  Maxie panics.  Sam grows suspicious.  Olivia lashes out at Sonny.  Michael remembers more.