Jane Elliot Celebrates 60 Years on TV as Tracy Quartermaine Legend

Jane Elliot marks an impressive milestone in her career, celebrating 60 years on television. Renowned for her iconic role as Tracy Quartermaine, she has become a fixture in the world of daytime dramas.

Jane Elliot: A Legend in Daytime Dramas

Over her extensive career, Elliot has appeared in nine different soap operas. Her role as Tracy Quartermaine on “General Hospital” earned her an Emmy and solidified her status as a television legend. She began her journey in daytime television in 1965 with the live soap “A Flame in the Wind.”

Early Years and Career Highlights

• Initial Roles: Elliot starred in primetime TV, including notable appearances in “Kojak” and “Change of Habit,” where she acted alongside Mary Tyler Moore and Elvis Presley.
• Transition to Soaps: Elliot moved to soap operas, portraying complex characters in shows like “Guiding Light” and “All My Children.”
• Return to General Hospital: She first appeared as Tracy Quartermaine in 1978, embracing the role with a unique blend of humor and resilience.

Tracy Quartermaine: The Role that Defined Her

Elliot describes playing Tracy as a liberating experience. “There’s no crying or heartbreak. You come in, and you’re snarky and mean, and then you leave it all behind,” she shared. This approach has made her character memorable and beloved among fans.

Throughout her tenure, Tracy Quartermaine was characterized by her wit and assertiveness, earning various plotlines and returning to the show multiple times. Elliot explains that she embraces the challenge of portraying a character that some fans may not like, stating, “I don’t care what you think of me!”

A Family Legacy

In recent years, Elliot has taken on the role of matriarch on “General Hospital,” amid the departure of other cast members. “I’m the last person standing,” she said, reflecting on her legacy within the Quartermaine family.

Wally Kurth, who plays her son on the show, adds a layer of complexity to their scenes, as they had previously portrayed lovers on “Days of Our Lives.” She humorously recalls the struggle of transitioning back into a maternal role: “I’m your mother this time!”

Looking to the Future

As Jane Elliot celebrates 60 years in the entertainment industry, her contributions to television continue to resonate. Both her ability to captivate audiences and her loyalty to her iconic character underscore her importance in the realm of daytime dramas.