NY Daily News

Hey, Courtney, you've got veil

By Carolyn Hinsey

After losing her baby and almost her mind, Courtney rebounds with a surprise wedding on "General Hospital" today - courtesy of her fiancé, Jason.
"They go to a little place in the French countryside," says Alicia Leigh Willis, who plays the beleaguered bride. "It's very spur-of-the-moment. She's confused because she didn't think he wanted to get married right now."

But with all the Sturm und Drang they've been through in the past few months (Courtney has been kidnapped, suffered a miscarriage, flirted with drug addiction and run down Jason's previous love, Liz), Jason decides that what they need is a wedding.

"It's perfect timing," says the actress. "He wants it to be just the two of them, but Jason calls Sonny and Carly at the last minute and invites them. It's a big surprise. She's all ready to get married when they show up. That makes it perfect."

The location is perfect, too.

"The set is gorgeous," says Willis of "France," re-created in "GH's" Hollywood studios. "And her gown is beautiful - simple but elegant."

When did Courtney have time to select and be fitted for a wedding dress?

"It just kind of appeared," says the actress with a laugh. "I assume Jason sent away for it, and it just happened to fit."

As for the ceremony, "it's the standard vows, but it's very emotional," offers Willis. "It's the perfect wedding. It's every girl's dream. It's really just about the two of them."

Indeed, Courtney's mom and dad aren't even there.

"Isn't it funny how that happens?" she says. "Mike should have been there. Her mom is a little crazy, but she should have been there, too. But at least Sonny and Carly were there."

Although the bride and groom are in the romantic French countryside, they won't get to enjoy much of a honeymoon.

"Everything gets overshadowed by drama with everybody else," says Willis. "They come home just in time for another family crisis. She can't miss out on the dramatic moments. They can't give her a break."

At least Jason and Courtney will enjoy their wedding night.

"It's very romantic," Willis says. "The set is beautiful. There are rose petals and candles everywhere."

Just like real life?

"Not mine!" she quipped.

October 10, 2003