John Oliver to Fulfill Dream of Starring in a Soap Opera, Landing Two Guest Roles

After openly lobbying for a guest role on a daytime soap opera, John Oliver will make his soap debut on General Hospital this week. 

The late-night host announced that he’ll star in a “substantial” role across three episodes on the long-running ABC series, starting Thursday, followed by new episodes airing on Friday and Monday, July 6.

Back in March, Oliver pitched himself for a guest appearance on a soap opera, noting other celebrities that have made cameos, including Katy Perry, Stephen A. Smith, and Snoop Dogg. Oliver said he wouldn’t want to play himself, but would like his character to have a “juicy” plot line, like being at the center of a murder or “being someone’s long-lost something.” 

“To all the soap operas out there, let me say this: I am officially offering myself to you,” Oliver implored. “Write me a role, and I will be on your set so fast, it will make your head spin.”

General Hospital, which streams on Hulu, happily obliged. “We didn’t hesitate for a second,” series executive producer Frank Valentini told Variety. “He was everything you’d hope he’d be: prepared, professional, funny, and genuinely kind to everyone on set. He plays an integral character in the story, and I can’t wait for fans to see who he crosses paths within Port Charles.”

Oliver added, “It’s a true honor to be a small stain on the history of this illustrious show.”

But Oliver had one more announcement. He will also have a guest role on Days of Our Lives, saying he had already taped “a week of episodes” that will stream on Peacock in August. “What is funnier than being in one soap opera?,” Oliver asked on his show Sunday night. “Being in two.”