New Era: It’s Time – Netflix Unveils Riveting Documentary on the Legendary ‘General Hospital’
By Cassandra Leigh, Entertainment Weekly (Fictional)
In a move that has the entertainment world abuzz, Netflix has officially announced the upcoming release of a groundbreaking documentary titled New Era: It’s Time, which takes viewers on an intimate and comprehensive journey through the rich, dramatic, and history-laden halls of General Hospital. The documentary promises to explore not just the show’s immense cultural impact but also the behind-the-scenes magic that has kept it thriving for over six decades.
The announcement came during a surprise segment at the Netflix Originals Showcase on Thursday, where a teaser trailer left audiences in stunned silence—and then thunderous applause. With narration by Golden Globe winner Viola Davis and featuring interviews from both past and present cast members, New Era: It’s Time is being described by insiders as “a love letter to daytime television and the fans who made it immortal.”
A Storied Past Worth Telling
First aired on April 1, 1963, General Hospital quickly became a staple of American daytime television. Over the years, the show’s blend of hospital drama, intricate personal relationships, and high-stakes adventure has captivated generations. With over 15,000 episodes aired, it holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running American soap opera still in production.
Netflix’s documentary, directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Ava Hartford (another fictional name), covers key milestones in the show’s evolution—from the early black-and-white episodes to the unforgettable Luke and Laura wedding of 1981, which drew an astonishing 30 million viewers. Archival footage and candid cast commentary offer a fresh perspective on the soap’s legacy and its influence on pop culture.
“The goal,” Hartford explained during a panel discussion, “was to tell the story behind the story—to reveal the triumphs, the scandals, the creative breakthroughs, and the social issues General Hospital tackled long before primetime dramas caught on.”
Never-Before-Seen Content
Perhaps most exciting for fans is the promise of never-before-seen behind-the-scenes footage, including bloopers, table reads, and candid moments with legendary actors like Anthony Geary, Genie Francis, Maurice Benard, and Finola Hughes. The documentary also touches on the show’s groundbreaking decision to address HIV/AIDS in the 1990s, a bold move that earned both praise and controversy.
“We wanted to be real,” said executive producer Johnathan Vance (fictional). “General Hospital has always had its soap moments, but it’s also been fearless in talking about mental health, addiction, racism, and more. This docuseries gives credit where credit is due.”
The show’s enduring relevance is also highlighted. Despite the decline of daytime dramas in the digital age, General Hospital has found new life through streaming, social media, and fan conventions, where entire generations—grandparents, parents, and even Gen Z viewers—bond over Port Charles’ perpetual drama.
A Touch of Drama – On and Off the Screen
New Era: It’s Time doesn’t shy away from controversies. The documentary touches on behind-the-scenes power struggles, cast shake-ups, and real-life drama that rivaled the storylines on screen. Anonymous sources recount the infamous “contract wars” of the 2000s, the near-cancellation in 2012, and the passionate fan campaigns that kept the show alive.
“There was a moment when the show was literally days away from being axed,” says an unnamed former producer. “We had cast members crying in the dressing rooms, and fans organizing nationwide petitions. It was like a scene straight out of the script.”
A Global Fanbase
The series also explores how General Hospital became a global phenomenon. Dubbed in over a dozen languages, the soap has a passionate international following. Interviews with fans from Brazil, the Philippines, Italy, and Canada reveal the depth of affection for characters like Sonny Corinthos and Carly Benson.
“There’s something universal about love, betrayal, and redemption,” explains Hartford. “Soap operas at their best hold up a mirror to humanity. General Hospital has done that for 60 years.”
Coming Soon to Your Screen
The first episode of New Era: It’s Time is scheduled to premiere globally on Netflix in September 2025, with a six-part series rollout planned. Each hour-long episode will focus on a specific era, with titles such as The Birth of a Legend, The Golden Years, and Surviving the Storm. Fan engagement is also a key component: Netflix is launching a companion podcast and a limited-edition merchandise line featuring vintage GH artwork and costumes.
As anticipation builds, one thing is clear—General Hospital isn’t just a TV show. It’s a piece of television history. And now, thanks to Netflix, that history is finally getting the spotlight it deserves.