For over six decades, General Hospital has stood as one of the crown jewels of daytime television. From shocking betrayals to sweeping romances, it has been the stage for some of the most iconic soap opera characters of all time.

Yet, even in a series filled with unforgettable figures, one character continues to tower above the rest: Tracy Quartermaine. And this year, her indelible mark on daytime television—

and the actress who brought her to life—is finally being recognized at the highest level. Jane Elliot, the brilliant talent behind Tracy Quartermaine, will be honored as the sole Gold Circle inductee at the 52nd Daytime Emmy Awards

in October 2025. This rare and prestigious recognition celebrates her 50 years of extraordinary contributions to daytime TV. For fans and industry insiders alike, the honor is more than just a personal victory for Elliot—it represents a legacy that has helped define what soap operas mean to generations of viewers.

The Significance of the Gold Circle

The Gold Circle is not just another accolade; it is one of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences’ (NATAS) most esteemed honors. Reserved for professionals who have dedicated at least 50 years to the daytime television landscape, the award salutes excellence, resilience, and an unmatched commitment to the craft.

This year, Jane Elliot stands alone in receiving the Gold Circle distinction. That exclusivity speaks volumes—not only to her longevity but to the sheer impact she has had in shaping the genre.

While the Silver Circle inductees for 2025 include notable figures such as Kate Linder (The Young and the Restless), James Reynolds (Days of Our Lives), Star Jones, and Judy Blye Wilson, Elliot’s half-century milestone sets her apart as a legend among legends.

Fifty Years of Tracy Quartermaine: A Character for the Ages

When Jane Elliot first stepped into the role of Tracy Quartermaine, she introduced audiences to a character who would forever change the face of General Hospital. Born into one of Port Charles’ most powerful families, Tracy was equal parts schemer, survivor, and reluctant heroine.

Across five decades, Elliot transformed Tracy into a multi-dimensional powerhouse. At times, she was the calculating villain who put her ambitions before her family. At others, she revealed her vulnerability—fighting for love, grappling with regret, or fiercely protecting those closest to her. Whether manipulating corporate boardrooms, feuding with the Quartermaine clan, or navigating turbulent romances, Tracy was never predictable.

Elliot’s ability to balance ruthlessness with humanity gave fans a character they loved to hate—and eventually, grew to love without condition. Her performances demonstrated why soap operas endure: they offer layered characters who evolve over time, reflecting the messy complexities of real life.

Why This Honor Matters Now

Elliot’s induction into the Gold Circle is not just about her longevity; it’s about her enduring relevance. In an industry notorious for turnover, recasts, and shortened character arcs, Jane Elliot’s Tracy Quartermaine has been a constant anchor in the ever-changing tides of daytime drama.

Her recognition comes at a critical moment for General Hospital. As the longest-running soap still on the air, the series thrives on balancing new characters and stories with the legacies of veterans like Tracy. By honoring Elliot, NATAS acknowledges not just her personal contributions, but the importance of legacy characters in maintaining a show’s identity and cultural impact.

For fans, this award feels like validation. Those who grew up watching Tracy’s rise and fall—and rise again—understand that this is more than a career milestone. It’s a tribute to their loyalty and emotional investment in a character who has been part of their lives for half a century.

The Broader Context: Honoring Daytime’s Builders

Though Jane Elliot is the star of the night, this year’s ceremony also shines a light on others who’ve shaped daytime TV in diverse ways. Kate Linder’s unwavering dedication, James Reynolds’ trailblazing role as Abe Carver, and Judy Blye Wilson’s keen eye for casting all demonstrate the many hands required to sustain the genre.

Yet, Elliot’s solo Gold Circle induction underscores her unique place in television history. Unlike many honorees who share the spotlight, Elliot’s recognition stands alone—a testament to the fact that her influence is singular, undeniable, and irreplaceable.

A Night to Remember: The 52nd Daytime Emmys

The 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be held on October 17, 2025, at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. In a thrilling update for long-time fans, limited tickets will be made available to the public for the first time since 2018, allowing audiences to witness history live.

The ceremony will also be streamed on watch.theemmys.tv and accessible via The Emmys app, ensuring that fans across the globe can celebrate Elliot’s crowning moment. Expect emotional speeches, tribute reels, and perhaps even appearances by former co-stars who shared Tracy’s most iconic storylines.

This isn’t just a night for Jane Elliot—it’s a night for General Hospital, for its fans, and for daytime television as a whole.

What This Means for General Hospital

The ripple effects of Jane Elliot’s recognition could be profound. For the writers, it’s an opportunity to re-center Tracy in upcoming storylines, perhaps giving the character a fresh arc that mirrors Elliot’s real-life triumph. For the cast, it’s a reminder of the show’s deep roots and the importance of honoring legacy while forging new paths.

And for the audience? It’s a reaffirmation of the power of storytelling. Tracy Quartermaine isn’t just a character—she’s a cultural touchstone. This honor ensures that her legacy, and Elliot’s performance, will continue to shape General Hospital’s future.

A Legacy Beyond One Character

While Tracy Quartermaine remains Elliot’s defining role, her influence extends beyond General Hospital. Over the years, Elliot has brought her talents to other daytime dramas, including Guiding Light and All My Children. Her versatility and dedication have left an indelible mark on the broader soap opera landscape.

But it is as Tracy—the flawed, fiery, unforgettable Quartermaine—that she has secured her place in television history.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Legacy and Loyalty

When Jane Elliot takes the stage on Emmy night, the audience won’t just be applauding an actress—they will be celebrating five decades of television history. Her induction into the Gold Circle is more than a personal honor; it’s a recognition of what makes daytime dramas so unique: their ability to tell stories that endure across generations.

Tracy Quartermaine has been many things over the years—schemer, matriarch, villain, mother, and reluctant heroine. But above all, she has been real. And Jane Elliot’s artistry has ensured that viewers never looked away.

As General Hospital marches into its next chapter, this honor serves as both a tribute to its past and a promise for its future. By honoring Jane Elliot, NATAS honors every fan who has laughed, cried, and schemed alongside Tracy Quartermaine.

Come October 17, we won’t just be watching an award ceremony. We’ll be witnessing history—history that was built, moment by moment, by one woman’s unforgettable performance.