ABC has announced the cancellation of two of its longest-running television series; All My Children and One Life to Live. The network has stated that it wishes to “evolve” its daytime schedule and two new shows; The Chew and The Revolution (neither one a Soap Opera) will be filling the empty slots.
Both of the canceled shows ran throughout the 1970s (not to mention the 80s, 90s, and 00s) and certainly seemed like they’d continue running on the ol’ goggle box for all eternity.
All My Children (set for implosion this September) began its 41-year run in January, 1970. 70s-era stars included Susan Lucci as Erica and Richard Hatch (later of Battlestar Galactica) as Phil.
One Life to Live (set to expire in Jan. 2012) made its debut in July of 1968, with stars such as Erika Slezak and Al Freeman, Jr. capturing viewer’s attention in the 1970s.
Personally, I was never a Soap-watcher, but I’m sure a lot of tears (real ones this time!) will be shed over the loss of these venerable television institutions.