How did daytime dramas like “Guiding Light” and “General Hospital” become known as “soap operas”? It's all thanks to commercials.

Natalie Moore writes about soap operas, their Chicago origins and relevance through the years. Her upcoming WBEZ podcast ...

Soap operas have been criticized for having unrealistic and over-the-top storylines that might distort the perception of reality. Either way, soaps like “General Hospital” remain highly popular.