What is a Soap Opera?
A soap opera, sometimes referred to as a “serial”, is a type of ongoing narrative drama produced for television and radio The term “soap” originated from the sponsored programs of the 1920s and 1930s which were named and targeted towards a female audience. Soap operas are characterized by their ongoing storylines, colorful and exaggerated characters, and melodramatic dialogue. These character-driven and plot-driven storylines typically focus on family, romance, and financial struggles.
Soap operas have been around since the 1920s, however, the first successful televised soap opera was the CBS series Search for Tomorrow which aired from 1951 to 1986. This was followed by the debut of General Hospital in 1963, which was the first network daytime serial to be broadcast in color.
Throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, soap operas gained tremendous success, becoming an integral part of daytime television. Today, there are dozens of soap operas airing in the United States and throughout the world. Here are the five best examples of soap operas.
The Young and the Restless
The Young and the Restless, which first aired in 1973, is the most popular soap opera in the United States. The show follows the lives of two wealthy families, the Abbotts and the Newmans, as they deal with drama and romance. It is set in Genoa City, Wisconsin and is known for its iconic theme song.
Days of Our Lives
Days of Our Lives, which first aired in 1965, is the second longest-running soap opera in the United States. The show follows the lives of the Brady, Horton, and DiMera families. It is set in the fictitious town of Salem and has become known for its use of fantasy sequences.
As the World Turns
As the World Turns, which first aired in 1956, was the longest-running soap opera in the United States until it ended in 2010. The show follows the lives of the citizens of the fictional town of Oakdale. It is known for its complex and controversial storylines, including the first interracial kiss on television between two men.
General Hospital
General Hospital, which first aired in 1963, is the longest-running soap opera in production and the third longest-running in the United States. The show follows the lives of the citizens of the fictional town of Port Charles. It is known for its focus on medical drama and often features the involvement of the mob.
All My Children
All My Children, which first aired in 1970, is a long-running soap opera that follows the lives of the citizens of the fictional town of Pine Valley. It is known for its intense and complicated storylines that explore themes such as social class, gender roles, and racial issues. The show is also known for its iconic opening sequence featuring the show's theme song.