Background
The Quartermaines were first introduced in 1977, when Stuart Damon originated the role of Alan Quartermaine. His parents and sister were next to be brought on canvas. Anna Lee originated matriarch Lila Quartermaine, with David Lewis being the first to play her husband Edward. Jane Elliot was cast as sharp-talking Tracy.
The Quartermaines are notorious for their socialite status as well as their dysfunctional tendencies. Prone to comedic fights, they annually attempt to have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner only for it to be ruined and have to order pizza. At Christmas time, the family has been known for their annual Christmas reading at the Hospital's Pediatric Ward Christmas party, ever since the passing of former Chief of Staff Steve Hardy, until the party remained to be aired. In a 1992 interview, Stuart Damon described the family:
| “ | Here's a grouping of characters that, over the years, no matter what else has gone on, works. They're well-drawn, and the family is steeped in history. In soap operas, relationships are the things that work. | ” |
Once an integral part of major storyline arcs, the Quartermaines have seen a diminishing amount of screen time since 2006, and many characters of the family have died on-screen.
Read more about this topic: Quartermaine Family
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