The Daytime TV Explosion That Changed Everything: Remembering General Hospital’s Iconic 'Clink Boom'

When it comes to soap operas—our stories—there’s always that one storyline that stays with you, the one that plants itself in your brain and leaves a permanent imprint. For me, that storyline is General Hospital’s “Clink Boom.”

Now, if you’re really a GH fan, you already know exactly what I’m talking about—when it happened, who was involved, and how unforgettable it was. I was only 10 years old. It was May Sweeps in 1996, and I got completely swept up in this story. I had never seen a triangle have such an impact, and to this day, it’s still revered as one of the greatest love triangles ever to grace daytime television.

I feel compelled to talk about how this particular storyline shaped my young life and deepened my love for soaps. I was always used to watching with my mom, grandmother, or one of my sisters—it was just a part of our daily routine. But after “Clink Boom,” it wasn’t just something I watched anymore. I felt it. That love I developed for soaps after that story? It’s never been matched.

Today marks another anniversary of “Clink Boom”—it premiered on May 31, 1996—and there’s no way I could let the day pass without talking about it. I loved Brenda Barrett. Vanessa Marcil was (and still is) one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever seen. I was completely enthralled by the story that showcased her talent and charisma. Even with all her antics—and yes, Brenda could be a lot—you couldn’t help but root for her. She was young, and when you’re young, sometimes you make stupid choices when it comes to love.

People love Sonny and Brenda—they’re a supercouple, no doubt—but their relationship had its issues too. The whole Sonny/Brenda/Jax triangle? Iconic. It could never be duplicated… although GH could have come close with Kristina/Dex/Joss, considering they’re the daughters of Jax and Sonny—but let’s not even open that door.

This was a deliciously dramatic storyline, and yes, unfortunately, Lily had to go. I didn’t have an issue with Lily, but I definitely didn’t expect them to kill her off like that—especially while pregnant. Shocking! But it was necessary for the story, and it paid off in a way that’s still being talked about decades later.

This is what soaps are made of—absolutely exquisite, legendary storytelling.

I just want to acknowledge the incredible work of the GH team during that era—shout out to Patrick (never forget Patrick!) and the amazing Wendy, the executive producer at the time. They created a storyline with the help of many others that has

stood the test of time. It was truly a golden era of General Hospital—one that could never be duplicated.

I pray for another time like this, when a soap opera has me absolutely gagged.

Happy anniversary to “Clink Boom”—to all of us who celebrate.