How long has ABC's "General Hospital" been on the air?

ABC's daytime soap opera "General Hospital" has been on the air since April 1, 1963. It's the longest-running entertainment program in the history of the ABC television network and holds the record for the longest-running American soap opera in production, as of 2015.

Created by Frank and Doris Hursley, "General Hospital" also holds the record for most Outstanding Drama Series wins at the Primetime Emmy Awards, with 11. Five of its wins came between 1995 and 2000. Anthony Geary, who began playing the role of Luke Spencer in 1978, has won eight Primetime Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his performances.