General Hospital,Soap Opera News
Steve Burton Reveals What He Would Have Said in His Daytime Emmy Speech!
Steve Burton didn’t win the 2026 Daytime Emmy, but he had a heartfelt speech ready, including tributes to Leslie Charleson and Maurice Benard.
November 1, 2026
3–4 minutes
GH news,jason morgan,Steve Burton
When Steve Burton (Jason Morgan, General Hospital) hit the red carpet and took his seat at the 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, win or lose, he already knew what mattered most: using his platform to spread love and honor the people who shaped his journey.
On a post-Emmy episode of That’s Awesome podcast, Steve sat down with co-host Bradford Anderson to dish on the night’s highlights, venue logistics at the Hollywood Palladium, and the unspoken speech he had ready to go!
That night, the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Daytime Drama Series went to Scott Clifton (Liam Spencer, The Bold and the Beautiful), who took home the trophy over Burton, Eric Braeden (Victor, Y&R), Thorsten Kaye (Ridge, B&B), and Christian LeBlanc (Michael, Y&R).
Although Steve didn’t win—which would have marked his third Emmy statuette—he had a powerful speech fully prepared. When Bradford asked what he would have said on stage, Burton highlighted the key people he wanted to honor.
Honoring the Memory of Leslie Charleson and Jane Elliot
For Steve, a major part of his nomination felt deeply tied to the memory of his late co-star and soap icon, Leslie Charleson (Monica Quartermaine).
“A lot of my material was around Leslie Charleson, and her passing,” Steve shared. “And you know, if I were to win, part of being in the speech was—was her, you know, just being able to give her the love and credit she deserves and Jane Elliot.”
Steve also made it clear that any moment on stage starts with his core personal foundation:
“The first thing is always glory to God for me, sure, you know, and I—I wouldn’t be anywhere or have all the great things I have in my life if it wasn’t for His grace, to be honest,” Steve said.
The Power of Mentorship: Maurice Benard and Laura Wright
Reflecting on his overall growth as an actor, Steve pointed directly to his longtime screen partner and mentor, Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos), who was a non-negotiable inclusion for his speech.
“Maurice being a big part of my life as a mentor of mine… like, I definitely wouldn’t be holding an Emmy if I didn’t cross paths with that guy. I just don’t believe it, you know?” Steve reflected.
“I think people come into your life for a reason, and he came into my life… to make me the actor I am today. It wouldn’t have happened if he didn’t come into my life.”
In addition to thanking executive producer Frank Valentini, the directors, writers, crew, and the Television Academy, Steve had warm words for Laura Wright (Carly Spencer), praising her unmatched dedication on set:
“Laura Wright, just for being an incredible scene partner all the time, always showing up, always professional, always willing to work, always willing to make things work.”
Gratitude for Family, Mark Teschner, and GH Fans
Steve expressed how meaningful it was to have his wife, Michelle Lundstrom, and the girls right by his side at the ceremony. He also gave a heartfelt nod to longtime General Hospital casting director Mark Teschner for believing in him at the very beginning of his career when he needed that first big break.
Closing out his reflections, Steve turned his attention straight to the loyal audience that has backed the daytime genre for decades:
“Last but never least, the fans, because we would not be doing what we do if it was not for our fan base; we know that more than anybody,” Steve said. “We are part of your family, and you’re a part of our family, which is super cool.”
What do you think of the people he planned to recognize? Were you touched by his decision to include Leslie in his speech? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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