Okay, settle in, grab your popcorn (or maybe a martini, shaken not stirred, in honor of our subject), because we’re diving into some major soap opera news that’s got everyone talking! Imagine hitting a milestone in your job – maybe 5 years, 10 years? Now, crank that up to FORTY YEARS. That’s right, the legendary Finola Hughes is celebrating an incredible four decades as the iconic Anna Devane on General Hospital! Can you even believe it?

Forty years is practically an eternity in the fast-paced world of television, let alone the dramatic whirlwind of Port Charles. It’s a testament not just to a character’s enduring appeal, but to the sheer talent and charisma of the actress who brings her to life. Hughes herself seems awestruck by the journey, recently taking to Instagram with a throwback photo from her very first scenes.

Her caption says it all: “40 years ago today! What a brilliant ride, who would have thought? Love you guys so much.” And trust us, the love is mutual!

From Mysterious Stranger to Port Charles Powerhouse

Let’s rewind the tape, shall we? Picture it: April 10, 1985. A mysterious, stunning woman named Anna Devane arrives in Port Charles. Her mission? To reconnect with her ruggedly handsome, eye-patch-wearing ex-husband, super-spy Robert Scorpio (played by the equally legendary Tristan Rogers).

Little did we know, this wasn’t just a fleeting visit. This was the beginning of an era.

Anna wasn’t just Robert’s ex; she was a force of nature in her own right. A former top agent for the WSB (World Security Bureau), she brought intrigue, danger, and a whole lot of glamour to the scene. Think sophisticated spycraft mixed with heart-wrenching personal drama.

Her initial storyline revolved around her past with Robert and the revelation of their daughter, Robin Scorpio (Kimberly McCullough), whom Robert never knew existed. Talk about dropping a bombshell! This reunion tugged at heartstrings and cemented Anna and Robin as one of daytime’s most beloved mother-daughter duos.

Over the years, Anna’s life has been anything but dull.

She’s been presumed dead (multiple times!), battled evil twins (hello, Alex Marick!), found love, lost love (R.I.P. Duke Lavery!), and faced down more villains than you can count. Through it all, she evolved. She wasn’t just a spy or a mother; she became the Police Commissioner of the Port Charles Police Department, proving she’s as adept at navigating city politics and crime scenes as she is international espionage.

And now? She’s also a doting (if somewhat overly protective) grandmother figure to Emma Drake.

Behind the Scenes: Four Decades of Friendship and FunSo, what’s the secret to this incredible run? According to Hughes, a big part of it is the family atmosphere on set and the unwavering support of the fans.

Speaking to Women’s World about the milestone, she humbly shared, “We’re so lucky… We’re just in that very fortuitous position of being in the public’s lexicon. They keep coming back—and we’re here for it!” [Source: Women’s World interview, details widely reported April 2024]. That connection is real, folks.

The love isn’t just from the fans; it’s palpable among the cast.

Hughes’ Instagram anniversary post was flooded with messages from her co-stars. Her on-screen daughter, Kimberly McCullough, simply commented, “ICON,” while Laura Wright (Carly Corinthos) chimed in with “AMAZING!!!!!” Even former GH star Rebecca Budig (Hayden Barnes), now on The Bold and the Beautiful, couldn’t help but share her admiration: “INCREDIBLE.”

This sense of camaraderie was especially evident during General Hospital’s recent

61st anniversary episode (which aired April 1, 2024 – yes, 61 years on air!). Hughes described the gathering of veteran actors as feeling “like Thanksgiving with family.” She highlighted her particularly close bond with Kristina Wagner, who plays Felicia Jones Scorpio – Anna’s long-time best friend on the show. “Kristina and myself met almost 40 years ago, and she’s one of my closest friends and confidants,” Hughes revealed.

Think about that – nearly four decades of real-life friendship mirroring their characters’ on-screen bond! It’s these genuine connections that often translate into magic on screen.

Nurturing the Next Generation

Hughes’ warmth extends to the younger generation on set too. She spoke fondly of working with the actresses who have played her granddaughter, Emma Drake.

She praised Brooklyn Rae Silzer, who portrayed Emma for many years as she grew up, noting that Silzer is now pursuing a demanding path in nursing school. Hughes warmly welcomed the current young actress, Braedyn Bruner, saying, “she’s just wonderful.”  It showcases a nurturing side, embracing the show’s past while supporting its future.

An Enduring Legacy Still Unfolding

Forty years. It’s a number that demands respect.

Finola Hughes hasn’t just played Anna Devane; she is Anna Devane in the hearts of millions. She’s navigated complex storylines, delivered powerhouse performances, and created a character who is simultaneously vulnerable and utterly badass. From spy games to family drama, from heartbreak to leadership, Anna Devane has done it all, and Hughes has masterfully guided her every step of the way.

As Hughes herself put it, it’s been a “brilliant ride.” And the best part? The ride isn’t over yet. Anna Devane is still very much at the center of the action in Port Charles. What twists and turns lie ahead for the intrepid agent and commissioner? What secrets are yet to be uncovered? We’ll have to keep tuning in, captivated as ever, thanks to the enduring brilliance of Finola Hughes.

Here’s to many more years, Agent Devane!

Every morning, just as the sun rises and the day begins, he shows up.

He doesn’t meow. He doesn’t scratch. He simply stands on his hind legs, places one paw gently against the glass, and looks in with quiet eyes. As if to say,

At first, I thought he belonged to someone nearby. Maybe he was just curious. Maybe he had gotten out and was looking for a way back inside. But as the days passed—and he kept coming—I realized something was different.

His visits weren’t random. They were routine. Purposeful. He was waiting.

So I asked around the neighborhood.

What I found broke my heart.

His former family had moved away. Packed up, locked the doors, and left. But they didn’t take him. For reasons I can’t begin to understand, they left him behind. No note. No arrangements. Just… gone.

And yet, every morning, he comes back.