“Soap” ran from 1977 to 1981 on ABC.  The night-time parody of daytime soap operas created a lot of controversy as details about its first episodes leaked in the media.
The show’s sexual content provoked protests from many religious groups, even before it aired. Even some gay-rights groups were concerned about the show’s portrayal of a gay character’s storyline.  Advertisers began cancelling in advance of “Soap’s” debut.
By the time it debuted, 18 of ABC’s 195 affiliates refused to air the show.  Others chose to broadcast it after 11 p.m. so children wouldn’t be as likely watch it. Â
The publicity helped the first episode win its time slot. Â A University of Richmond poll found that 26 percent of viewers found it offensive and half of them planned to watch it the next week.
“Soap” earned mixed reviews early on, but critics turned positive in later seasons. Today, it is considered one of the best series in TV history. The show also launched the spinoff series “Benson.”
A little holiday spirit to celebrate the season. John with his Dynasty co-stars Pamela Sue Martin and Gordon Thomson in an outtake from the photo shoot for the December 1982 issue of Playgirl.
Peter Hansen was such a great actor. He brought class to the old GH.
Lee’s relationship with Scott was complicated, as any father and son would be. Yet, no matter how often Lee was disappointed in Scotty’s choices in life, one thing his son always knew was that his dad loved him. He may not have approved, they might not have always seen eye to eye, but Scotty knew when push came to shove, his dad was in his corner.
I really hope GH chooses to mention Lee’s passing on air. Doesn’t have to be a lot of fanfare, but the character was an important one to the show in the past, still has connections today, and is still beloved by fans and actors alike.
Thank you, Peter, for all the years of entertainment. You are missed.
My Third Parent 