Trina Robinson
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Trina Robinson is a fictional character from ''
General Hospital ''General Hospital'' (often abbreviated as ''GH'') is an American daytime television soap opera. It is listed in ''Guinness World Records'' as the list of longest-running television shows by category, longest-running American soap opera in pro ...
'', an
American American(s) may refer to: * American, something of, from, or related to the United States of America, commonly known as the "United States" or "America" ** Americans, citizens and nationals of the United States of America ** American ancestry, pe ...
soap opera on the
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network. The role was originated played by Tiana Le from 2017 to 2018. Nearly a year later on February 20, 2019,
Sydney Mikayla Sydney Mikayla Shepherd (born February 1, 2003), known professionally as Sydney Mikayla, is an American actress. In 2014, Mikayla portrayed Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas in the Lifetime biopic for which she won a Young Artist Award. From 2019 to 20 ...
took over the role. Later that year, Mikayla began appearing as a series regular. She vacated the role in March 2022; Tabyana Ali replaced her later that month. Introduced by executive producer
Frank Valentini Frank Valentini is the executive producer for the ABC soap opera ''General Hospital''. He previously held the position of executive producer, director, and composer for the ABC soap opera ''One Life to Live''. From 1986 to 1992 he worked as stag ...
in 2017, Trina is created by co-head writers
Jean Passanante Jean Passanante (born June 26, 1953) is an American television screenwriter, best known for her work in daytime soap operas. Passanante got her start as an actress doing bit parts in the 1980s, including John Sayles's ''Return of the Secaucus 7' ...
and
Shelly Altman Michelle "Shelly" Altman is an American soap opera writer who is known as breakdown and associate head writer of numerous American daytime soap operas, including '' Another World'', ''General Hospital'' and ''One Life to Live''. Career In 1987, Al ...
as the party girl best friend of
Josslyn Jacks ''General Hospital'' is an American television serial drama, airing on ABC. The show was created by Frank and Doris Hursley, who originally set it in a general hospital in an unnamed fictional city. The series premiered on April 1, 1963. In the 1 ...
(Eden McCoy). For the most part, Trina is mentioned in passing by her friends. With Mikayla in the role, Trina is integrated into the canvas as one of the four young teen characters within the series, along with Josslyn,
Oscar Nero ''General Hospital'' is an American television serial drama, airing on ABC. The show was created by Frank and Doris Hursley, who originally set it in a general hospital in an unnamed fictional city. The series premiered on April 1, 1963. In the 1 ...
(
Garren Stitt Garren Lake Stitt, (born January 21, 2003) often credited as either Garren Lake or LAKE!, is an American actor and singer. He is best known for his roles in '' General Hospital'' and ''Andi Mack'' with the former earning him a Daytime Emmy Award ...
), and
Cameron Webber '' General Hospital'' is an American television serial drama, airing on ABC. The show was created by Frank and Doris Hursley, who originally set it in a general hospital in an unnamed fictional city. The series premiered on April 1, 1963. In the ...
(William Lipton). Trina also forges friendship with
Ava Jerome Ava Jerome is a fictional character from ''General Hospital'', an American soap opera on the ABC network. The role is portrayed by three-time Daytime Emmy Award winner Maura West, who made her first appearance on May 8, 2013. Ava is part of the ...
(
Maura West Maura may refer to: *Maura (given name), a feminine given name *Antonio Maura (1853–1925), Prime Minister of Spain *Carmen Maura (born 1945), Spanish actress *Miguel Maura (1887–1971), Spanish politician *Santa Maura, a former name of the Gre ...
) when she interns at Ava's art gallery. Hailed as one of the show's young heroines, in 2020, Trina steps into a more central role with the reintroduction of established character
Marcus Taggert ''General Hospital'' is the longest-running American television serial drama, airing on American Broadcasting Company, ABC. Created by Frank and Doris Hursley, it originally was set it in a District General Hospital, general hospital (hence the ...
(
Réal Andrews Réal Andrews (born Réal Johnson; January 31, 1963) is a Canadian actor. He is known for playing Chance Walker in the first season of the syndicated action drama series ''Soldier of Fortune, Inc.'', and for playing Marcus Taggert on the ABC day ...
) as her father and the arrival of her mother, Portia Robinson (
Brook Kerr Brook Kerr (born November 21, 1973) is an American actress who is best known for her portrayal of Whitney Russell Harris on the television soap opera ''Passions'' and Dr. Portia Robinson on ABC's General Hospital. Personal life She is a nativ ...
). Trina struggles to cope with Taggert's presumed death and blames Portia's ex-boyfriend Curtis Ashford (
Donnell Turner Donnell L. Turner (born January 8, 1973) is an American actor best known for his portrayal of Curtis Ashford on the ABC daytime soap opera, ''General Hospital''. He has one daughter, Whitney Mayo who resides in Spokane, WA. Personal life Turner ...
). In 2021, the writers developed Trina's first potential romance with the troubled
Spencer Cassadine ''General Hospital'' is an American television serial drama, airing on ABC. The show was created by Frank and Doris Hursley, who originally set it in a general hospital in an unnamed fictional city. The series premiered on April 1, 1963. In the ...
( Nicholas Chavez). With Mikayla in the role, Trina becomes a favorite amongst fans and critics for her fierce loyalty and her smart and assertive personality. Mikayla received two consecutive nominations for the
Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series The Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series is an award presented annually by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) and the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (ATAS). It was first awarded at ...
for her portrayal of Trina in 2021 and 2022.


Storylines

In June 2017, Trina (Le) is enlisted by her best friend Josslyn Jacks to throw a party while her mom is out of town. After successfully arranging the party, Trina also invites Josslyn's crush Oscar. However, the party gets out of hand when the guests start drinking and Josslyn's grandmother
Bobbie Spencer Barbara Jean "Bobbie" Spencer, RN is a fictional character from the ABC soap opera '' General Hospital'', portrayed by Jacklyn Zeman. She debuted in December 1977, after playing Lana McClain on the sister-soap '' One Life to Live''. Zeman went o ...
(
Jacklyn Zeman Jacklyn Zeman (born March 6, 1953) is an American actress. She is known for her role as Barbara "Bobbie" Spencer on '' General Hospital''. She is sometimes credited as Jackie Zeman. Early life and education Zeman was born in Englewood, New Jers ...
) breaks up the party. While the character does not appear much, she is mentioned often by Joss and Oscar. In March 2018, Trina attends the alternative prom that Oscar and Joss have arranged to support a transgender student at school. However, an earthquake hits and Trina suffers minor injuries. Throughout 2019, Trina (Mikayla) serves as a supportive friend to Joss and Cam. She accompanies them on a road trip with a terminally ill Oscar and comforts Cam as he struggles to accept his mother
Elizabeth Webber Elizabeth Webber is a fictional character from ''General Hospital'', an American soap opera on the ABC network, played by Rebecca Herbst. Elizabeth is the granddaughter of the show's original lead character, Steve Hardy ( John Beradino) and dau ...
's (
Rebecca Herbst Rebecca Ann Herbst (born May 12, 1977) is an American actress, known for playing nurse Elizabeth Webber on the ABC Daytime drama ''General Hospital'', a role she originated on August 1, 1997, and Suzee, an alien, on the Nickelodeon show, '' Spa ...
) relationship with reformed serial killer
Franco Franco may refer to: Name * Franco (name) * Francisco Franco (1892–1975), Spanish general and dictator of Spain from 1939 to 1975 * Franco Luambo (1938–1989), Congolese musician, the "Grand Maître" Prefix * Franco, a prefix used when ref ...
(
Roger Howarth Roger Howarth (born September 13, 1968) is an American actor. He played character Todd Manning on the daytime drama ''One Life to Live'' (''OLTL''); the character earned Howarth a Daytime Emmy Award in 1994, and is cited as an icon in the soap ...
). Trina serves as moral support for Cameron when he goes to court after missing his mandatory community service thanks to the trip. As Oscar's health declines, Trina is determined to make sure everything is normal for Oscar and Joss. Despite her own grief over Oscar's passing, Trina does her best to support Joss and Cam, even participating in Joss's attempt at a séance. When Joss is too sad to attend, Trina accompanies Cam to Elizabeth and Franco's wedding reception. Trina and Cam are happy when Joss tags along at the last minute. In the summer Trina and Joss comfort Cam after he is abducted and Franco trades himself for Cam's freedom. She even talks Cam out of selling his car, as he blames the car for his abduction. Later, Cam realizes Trina likes Joss's "cousin" Dev Corbin (Ashton Arbab) and she ask for his help getting Dev to like her. As she starts school, Trina applies for an internship at Ava Jerome's gallery. While Ava hesitates due to her lack of experience, Trina makes an impression and lands the gig. Trina supports Cam as he struggles to cope with Franco's rejection as he doesn't remember their family. Meanwhile, Trina is concerned when Ava checks herself into a mental hospital as she feels she is being haunted by her late daughter, Kiki (
Hayley Erin Hayley Erin Feil (born July 13, 1994) is an American actress. She is known for playing the teenage Abby Newman on ''The Young and the Restless''. She portrayed Kiki Jerome on ''General Hospital'' from 2015 to 2019. She starred as Taylor Hotchkiss ...
). During a school dance for Halloween, Trina kisses Dev but he just wants to be friends. While she isn't too broken up about it, Trina suspects that he is into Joss though Dev denies it. Trina then learns Joss and Cam have been drinking and tries to sneak them out of the dance but they are discovered by Cam's aunt
Lulu Spencer Lulu Spencer is a fictional character from ''General Hospital'', an American soap opera on the ABC network, portrayed by Emme Rylan. Previously, Lulu was portrayed by child actress, Tessa Allen from 2004 to 2005. The role was most notably portra ...
(
Emme Rylan Emme Marcy Rylan (born Marcy Faith Behrens; November 4, 1980) is an American actress. From 2005 until 2013, she was credited as Marcy Rylan. She is best known for her portrayals on the CBS soap operas ''Guiding Light'' as Lizzie Spaulding and ''T ...
) and their teacher, Dustin Phillips (
Mark Lawson Mark Gerard Lawson is an English journalist, broadcaster and author. Specialising in culture and the arts, he is best known for presenting the flagship BBC Radio 4 arts programme ''Front Row (radio programme), Front Row'' between 1998 and 2014. ...
). The teens are sentenced to Saturday detention where Dev admits that he is an illegal immigrant and that he is posing as Joss's cousin so he can stay in the country; they are sworn to secrecy. As Trina tries to get to the bottom of a recent break-in at the gallery, she is alarmed when Ava suddenly checks herself out of the hospital, claiming she is perfectly sane. On Christmas Eve, Trina tells Joss that Dev has a crush on her. In 2020, Trina plans to attend the winter formal with Cam as friends, but tells Joss it's a date in an effort to make her face her feelings for Cam. Just before the dance, Trina is visited by her father Taggert and he gives his blessing for Cam to take Trina to the dance. However, the duo are abducted on their way to the dance by Taggert's enemies. While Taggert, Curtis and Jason Morgan ( Steve Burton) rescue them, Taggert dies after surgery. Portia returns from her medical conference to comfort a distraught Trina as she blames Curtis for Taggert's demise. Meanwhile, Trina turns to Cam for comfort and they kiss. Trina is furious when Police Commissioner
Jordan Ashford ''General Hospital'' is the longest running American television serial drama, airing on ABC since April 1, 1963. Created by Frank and Doris Hursley, who originally set it in a general hospital (hence the title), in an unnamed fictional city. In ...
(
Briana Nicole Henry Briana Nicole Henry (born January 19, 1992) is an American actress and is recognized for her portrayal of Jordan Ashford on ABC's ''General Hospital'' and Esmeralda on ''The Young and the Restless''. Early life Henry was born in Broward County ...
) announces that Taggert and his DEA partners manufactured against the recently exonerated Cyrus Renault (
Jeff Kober Jeff Kober (born December 18, 1953) is an American actor, known for his television roles as Dodger in ''China Beach'', Jacob Hale Jr. in ''Sons of Anarchy'', and Joe in the fourth season of '' The Walking Dead''. He is also known his movie role ...
), an alleged drug lord. Cyrus confronts Trina and Portia and Curtis intervenes but Trina isn't interested in his help. As Jordan refuses to retract her story, Trina sets out to clear Taggert's name. She later confides in Joss about her kiss with Cam to avoid any awkwardness and assures Joss it means nothing, much to Cam's chagrin. To distract herself from her anxiety around her grief, homecoming, her feelings about Cam, Trina throws herself into her internship. When Cam admits that he has feelings for both Trina and Joss, they kiss again and decide they are better as friends. Dev suddenly lashes out at Joss and Trina after Joss rejects his romantic advances. Though he apologizes, Cam has to convince Trina not to end their friendship with Dev for good. Days later, Cam and Dev are caught in an explosion that kills Dev and leaves Cam blaming himself, despite Trina and Cam insisting otherwise. When Cyrus claims Taggert faked his death to protect Trina, she tries to access medical records with Joss & Cam's help but they are caught by nurse
Epiphany Johnson ''General Hospital'' is the longest-running American television serial drama, airing on ABC. Created by Frank and Doris Hursley, who originally set it in a general hospital (hence the title), in an unnamed fictional city. In the 1970s, the city ...
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Sonya Eddy Sonya Eddy (June 17, 1967 – December 19, 2022) was an American actress. Early life and education Eddy was born in Concord, California, on June 17, 1967. She majored in theatre and dance at University of California, Davis and received her B.A. ...
). When Trina tells Portia about Cyrus's claims, Portia wants to file a complaint and they arrive at the police station as Taggert has been arrested. While she is happy he is alive, Trina is furious that he let her grieve and didn't trust her with the truth. Despite Ava's advice that keeping Taggert's secret would've been too hard on Trina, she wants nothing to do with her father in the New Year. Meanwhile, Trina and Cam comfort Joss after her stepfather
Sonny Corinthos Sonny Corinthos is a fictional character on the ABC soap opera ''General Hospital''. Maurice Benard has played the role of the manic depressive mob kingpin, living in Port Charles, since the character's storyline originated on August 13, 1993. Sonn ...
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Maurice Benard Maurice Benard (born March 1, 1963) is an American actor. In 1993, he was cast as Sonny Corinthos on the ABC soap opera ''General Hospital''. Early life and career Benard was born Mauricio José Morales in Martinez, California, the son of Martha ...
) is presumed dead. Later, Cam and Trina agree to keep quiet about Dev stealing Joss's journal to avoid tainting her memories of their friend. As she struggles to accept Taggert's betrayal, Cam and Joss offer their support. She and Joss later comfort Cam when his stepfather Franco is stabbed to death. When Cam suspects Franco faked his death to spare their family the pain of watching him die from a brain tumor, the girls help Cam break into the hospital morgue to identify Franco's remains. Trina finally apologizes for how she treated Curtis and he encourages her to reconcile with Taggert. As he is arraigned on fraud charges, Trina encourages Taggert fight so they can mend their relationship. Trina is excited when she and Joss are both accepted to Port Charles University while Joss is sad to be waitlisted by her first choice. Despite Cam & Joss insisting that he go, Cam decides not to attend
Stanford University Stanford University, officially Leland Stanford Junior University, is a private research university in Stanford, California. The campus occupies , among the largest in the United States, and enrolls over 17,000 students. Stanford is consider ...
as he wants to make sure Jason is held responsible for Franco's murder. Trina is relieved when Taggert is released into Jordan's custody and sentenced to house arrest as he awaits trial. Trina is saddened when Jordan reveals that she and Curtis are divorcing and Trina is wary of Curtis and Portia's growing closeness. Trina is later furious at Cam for pulling a gun on Jason and later Jordan and she admits that if he looked like her, his life could have ended in tragedy.


Development


Casting and creation

Le originated the role on June 23, 2017. She reprised the role on March 2, 2018. However, the return was short lived as Le last appeared on March 5, 2018. The actress only appeared for three episodes. Mikayla's casting was announced by ''
Soap Opera Digest ''Soap Opera Digest'' is a weekly magazine covering American daytime soap operas. It features onscreen and offscreen news about the series, interviews with and articles about performers, storyline summaries and analysis, and related promotional in ...
'' after her debut. In the summer of 2019, Mikayla was promoted to series regular. In late 2021, Mikayla was taken off contract with the series to accommodate her schedule as she started college. In a statement to ''
Soap Opera Network There are multiple media outlets which focus primarily on television soap operas and telenovela A telenovela is a type of a television serial drama or soap opera produced primarily in Latin America. The word combines ''tele'' (for "television" ...
'', the actress said "Right now I’m getting into the swing of things at school and navigating the balancing act. ‘GH’ has been super supportive of all the teens going to school and I’m super happy about that. Team ‘GH’! The genre was new to Mikayla. "When my agent called me about the audition, I was excited, but I’d never really watched soaps. I had a small role on a soap years before, but it wasn’t a genre I was familiar with." The actress auditioned twice for the role. In an essay for ''
Backstage Backstage most commonly refers to backstage (theatre), also in motion picture and television production. Backstage may also refer to: Film and television * ''Back Stage'' (1969 film), a silent film starring Oliver Hardy * ''Back Stage'' (1942 fil ...
'', Mikayla explained her journey: "As I researched the series, I wasn’t sure if my acting style could fit the cadence of the show. Could I do the dramatic looks or cry on cue? However, as I prepared for the audition and callback, I put all that aside." Instead, Mikayla set out to bring "authenticity" to the role. At the audition, Mikayla chose to make the character more like herself because "I can see how the writers want her to be portrayed as just a realistic girl." After a few weeks, Mikayla received a callback which she "felt really good about" and she even left an impression on Valentini and she booked the role later that day. Mikayla said "Getting GH was definitely a breath of fresh air" as she had run into some difficulty booking roles because she was tall for her age. In an interview with Star-Kidz.net, Mikayla said "Joining the cast of General Hospital was a bit difficult at first but I love it so much." Mikayla felt recasting the role made it more complicated. "I’m the 2nd person to play this character, so unlike other roles I’ve done, Trina didn’t really get in introduced I just kinda jumped into the character so it felt like jumping in 12 feet of water." Mikayla said playing Trina "made me become a better actress." She continued, "I feel so honored to portray Trina." In 2020, Mikayla said "In the past I have often played the same type of comedic roles, so to be given a character with so much depth is the opportunity of a lifetime." In 2021, she stated "What I love about playing Trina is the versatility that she has on screen." She later said "This role has really allowed me to delve into my dramatic side, and I’ve enjoyed every second of it." Prior to her role as Trina, Mikayla struggled to find dramatic roles as a Black actress. "I felt like most of the time I was playing like a quicky one-liner or I had some sassy line. I was usually the punchline of some sort bringing the comedy, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it definitely did get tiring after a while and I was really ready for a challenge. I think General Hospital came at the right time." In March 2022, Mikayla announced her departure from the role, citing her decision focus on her academics; Tabyana Ali was subsequently announced as Mikayla's successor. Mikayla last appeared on March 17, 2022; while Ali first appeared on March 25, 2022.


Characterization


Personality

Upon her introduction in 2017, Trina was characterized Trina as a "party girl." In 2019, Kim Brandow of the
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said " rinastarted out as more of a bad girl." ''Soap Opera Digest'' said Trina "tells it like it is." In addition, the magazine said Trina has "ambition," "emotional intelligence and empathy." ''
Daytime Confidential There are multiple media outlets which focus primarily on television soap operas and telenovela A telenovela is a type of a television serial drama or soap opera produced primarily in Latin America. The word combines ''tele'' (for "television" ...
'' said Trina does "questionable things for the right reasons" and she will "go to that mat" for her friends." Hope Campbell said Trina is "assertive, smart, sassy, insightful, and does not let anyone push her around." Tram Anh Ton Nu described Trina as "rebellious" in 2020. ''
Cliché Magazine ''Cliché Magazine'' is a digital fashion magazine with a focus on fashion, music, lifestyle, entertainment, and latest culture. Based in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, issues are released monthly, exclusively on digital platforms. Basic informati ...
's'' Erin Tatum characterized Trina as "a straight-laced teen." KP Smith described Trina as "spunky, beautiful and smart." Dustin Cushman of Soaps.com felt Trina was "the most open and forthcoming" of her peers. Sherrie E. Smith said Mikayla gave Trina a "fiery personality, €¦and a little vulnerability for good measure." In 2020, Van Etten categorized Trina as one of the "young heroines" of the show. When asked what drew her to the role, Mikayla said Trina is a "strong, independent African American woman." She continued that "Trina really does her own things, and she has interests of her own. Also, she will go after whatever she wants." Of the character in comparison to herself, Mikayla said "Trina is more bold than I am. She says whatever she wants, kinda does whatever she wants." In addition to Trina's outgoing personality, Mikayla said "She's a great student" and "she has great fashion and make-up." She continued "I think Trina is the better looking more outspoken version of me." Mikayla described Trina as the "popular prop queen." In an interview with''Soap Opera Digest'', Mikayla explained that she and Trina "both have drive and determination. Even though we're young, we both want to work for our dreams and works for our goals and we want to work our way up." Mikayla also revealed that Trina "is really good at hiding her feelings." If something bothers her, "she wouldn't be catty or petty about it." Instead, Trina finds things to distract herself instead of lashing out. In a 2021 interview, Mikayla said "Trina and I are both headstrong. We really don’t like being told what to do by anyone. However, Trina is a bit more nosy than I am. I like to keep my head down and stay out of people’s way, but Trina does quite the opposite." No matter the situation, Mikayla said Trina's "determination to find the truth always makes her such a fun and feisty character to play." Mikayla felt Trina was a better person because "She really cares about other people’s problems." Mikayla later said "Trina will press an issue. €¦Trina will go right in and confront whoever needs to be confronted. €¦â€“ she does not care. She has no fear. I definitely should take a chapter out of her book because she’s got guts." According to Mikayla, Trina has a "willingness to see the good in people" that makes it hard for her to trust others. Mikayla stated Trina "has shown herself to be a loyal and protective friend." Trina is a "tell-it-like-it-is" kind of person.


Backstory

In December 2019, Mikayla remained tight lipped about Trina's backstory in an interview. The actress later admitted that she tried to craft a backstory for the character. However, she said "every time I did, something would kind of change, like, every time I thought I had a fact, it wasn't really true, so it was really hard trying to guess." In the summer of 2017, Josslyn notes that Trina is allowed to date while she is not. During her sophomore in high school, Trina starts dating a junior and they consider having sex. Trina worries her mom will find the condoms so she convinces Josslyn to hide them for her. In the summer of 2018, Trina worked as an intern at the Port Charles Museum of Fine Arts. In 2020, Trina is revealed to be Taggert and Portia's daughter. Her parents divorce so early that Trina never experienced their relationship outside of co-parenting as Portia felt Taggert's career took priority over their family. While Taggert is always present in Trina's life, Portia and Taggert agree to keep distance between them for safety reasons. Because of the distance, Trina doesn't know much about her parents' marriage and Portia doesn't talk about it. Mikayla described her character to ''Cliché Magazine'' in 2021: "Trina is an 18-year-old straight-A student, with a passion for track and a love for art." She also loves art history and some of her favorite artists include
David Driskell David C. Driskell (June 7, 1931 – April 1, 2020) was an American artist, scholar and curator; recognized for his work in establishing African-American Art as a distinct field of study. In his lifetime, Driskell was cited as one of the world†...
and
Romare Bearden Romare Bearden (September 2, 1911 – March 12, 1988) was an American artist, author, and songwriter. He worked with many types of media including cartoons, oils, and collages. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Bearden grew up in New York City a ...
. Because Portia is a doctor, Trina also grows up exploring her mother's medical journals.


Introduction

Trina is introduced in 2017 when Josslyn enlist her help throwing a party. The party ultimately served as the catalyst to introduce Oscar as Josslyn's love interest. Kim Brandow observed that the writers used Trina "to bring a little drama into Josslyn's life as a teen." Until the recast, "Trina was not in the forefront at all for a while but came back on the scene when Oscar's health took a turn for the worse." Mikayla was relieved with her character's slow integration as she was surprised by the swift production process. She told ''Soap Opera Digest'', "I said my lines and I'll never forget, they said 'Cut! Moving on.' And hewas looking around" wondering if she had another chance to shoot the scene. "I was not use to that! It was good to start with just a few lines, to start warming up, because jumping into the deep end, never really having worked on a soap before, I don't know if I would've been able to handle that." As she celebrated her first anniversary on the show, Mikayla said to ''
ABC Soaps In Depth ''Soaps In Depth'' is an American entertainment magazine, formerly published as a series of biweekly print publications and currently as an online-exclusive publication, that is dedicated to coverage of daytime soap operas. Founded in 1997 by B ...
'' "It’s all still so new and exciting for me. I’m learning a lot from the other teen actors and from the veterans on the show, too." Once Mikayla signed a contract, "Trina became more of a central player in GH's younger set." For Mikayla it was "really, really rewarding. I love knowing the writers like what I'm doing." Mikayla later said "It was quite a shock honestly." When Valentini made her aware that Trina would soon have her own storyline, the actress knew she had "to get more training right away." She continued, "I’ve had so much fun preparing for the role of Trina, taking extra acting classes and creating a community that has really helped me to be the best actress I can be." ''ABC Soaps In Depth's'' Chris Eades said "No matter what she looks like, Trina knows how to have fun!" Additionally, Trina also befriends Cameron, who is a bit nervous to be around her due to her "reputation." However, Trina later admits to exaggerating her reputation. She is also suspicious of Josslyn's step cousin, Dev. In October 2019, the character's integration continued as she lands an internship with Ave Jerome at her art gallery. According to Mikayla, "That was when you started to see Trina get her own life, because you never really saw her away from the
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teens. It was really big for me." Cushman said the scenes brought out Ava's "caring side." Mikayla said "Some of my favorite scenes have been with Maura West (Ava). She is a soap opera icon! It’s an honor to share the screen with her. €¦She’s so nice and makes me feel very comfortable when we do our scenes together" Trina's expanded role required "a lot more commitment" from Mikayla. The actress explained: "There are weeks that are extremely line heavy and require a lot of focus in order to make Trina as authentic as possible."


Family drama

Mikayla was happy with the development that Taggert is Trina's father. "Finally getting a dad helped answer some questions and I was so glad." She later said, "Réal is amazing and we have great chemistry together. When I first met him, he was so nice to me so for him to play my dad is such an honor. Réal is a living legend so working with him is a dream come true." Taggert's apparent death was the first time Mikayla had to cry onscreen. Trina's world is "rocked" when she is "used as bait to lure Taggert" into a trap. An excited Mikayla said "I've kind of learned in GH history, getting kidnapped is a right of passage." On her approach to playing the scenes, she stated "I definitely took it down the more dark path, for sure." Mikayla revealed that she researched "a lot of kidnappings which I don't know was the best thing for my psyche." Mikayla described the scenes as "emotionally draining" which was further exacerbated by her wardrobe. "I was, like, rolling on the floor wearing a dress and heels because Trina and Cam were going to the winter formal hen they were taken hostage It was a lot! But that's okay because it made it realistic." Trina is furious with Curtis for dragging her to safety when gunfire breaks out as Taggert gets shot. Donald Thompson said Taggert is "taken out with the snap of a finger" when he comes to Trina's rescue after she is abducted and it is a "heartbreaking loss for Trina." Mikayla put a great deal of effort into her portrayal of Trina's grief. While she felt she got her tearful "
Viola Davis Viola Davis (; born August 11, 1965) is an American actress and producer. The recipient of various accolades, including an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and two Tony Awards, she is the only African-American to achieve the Triple Crow ...
moment" as Trina learned of Taggert's death at the hospital, Mikayla worked with her mother and acting coach, Sonya Shepherd, to play out the different stages of grief. "I think that playing with those levels was the biggest part of trying to do a good job playing the sadness. That was really important in my process, knowing that grief is always there, but grief doesn't always mean tears. I had to make sure to do different things so that the audience wouldn't get bored!" The fallout makes way for Portia's arrival. Van Etten said "We can't access that igimpact n Trinawithout seeing her other parent, so it was really important to see her mother and to introduce Portia to the canvas. €¦We felt it would be important to provide a bit of context to Trina's background so that going forward, we would understand where her head's at." Mikayla was delighted to work opposite Kerr. "Brook had such a beautiful role on ''
Passions ''Passions'' is an American television soap opera that originally aired on NBC from July 5, 1999, to September 7, 2007, and on DirecTV's The 101 Network from September 17, 2007, to August 7, 2008. Created by screenwriter James E. Reilly and pro ...
'' so to see her act and to be on ''General Hospital'' playing my mother is so interesting. She is such a great actress, we have incredible chemistry on screen, and she is such a sweet person. I couldn’t ask for a better mom." Michael Maloney observed that unlike most portrayals of fictional mother-daughter relationships, Portia and Trina are not "at odds." Mikayla said "we've really connected" of her dynamic with Kerr. "Her maternal energy is great." While Trina had friends, "it’s great that she has someone whom she can turn to, too." However the relationship is complicated by the revelation that Portia shares a past with Curtis, who Trina blames for her father's death. The actress was quite "shocked by how rude Trina was to Curtis" in the aftermath of Taggert's supposed death. "I had seen her be fiery before, but the temporary hatred she seemingly had for him took me by surprise." In 2021, "Trina pulverizes the pedestal on which she places Taggert. At the same time, Portia encourages Taggert to do what he must to not give up on his daughter." Mikayla stated that "Trina idolized her father and his lie about having been killed caused a shift in their relationship." Because of her admiration for Taggert, "she feels deeply betrayed and hurt by him." In the aftermath of Taggert's lie, "Trina trust her mom even more." Trina struggles with whether to trust her father, "especially when it seems that the pedestal that she placed him on is starting to break." With Taggert back in her life, Trina tries to figure out "what she wants to be for her dad and what she wants her dad to be for her."


Reception

Mikayla has received positive reactions from both viewers and critics. Mikayla's recast initially was a bit of a distraction for some as it seemingly changed Trina's race. Chris Eades stated that "some fans were a bit confused when the character began appearing more often as she looked quite a bit different than she did before!" Mikayla and the character of Trina were well received in 2019. Cushman said she "is a terrific young actress and hopefully, we will see more of her." ''Soaps In Depth'' also hoped Trina would get more focus. "Since stepping into the role earlier this year, Sydney Mikayla has definitely captured our attention. Trina's not necessarily the troublemaker she was introduced as a few years back, but she's maintained her edge while avoiding becoming a glorified talk-to for the other teens. And it's not like she's adverse to stirring things up! €¦The more time we spend with Trina, the more we like – and want to know more about – her!" ''Daytime Confidential'' listed Mikayla at #10 on its list of the "Top 10 Female Entertainers of 2019." The website praised Mikayla for her portrayal, her chemistry with her co-stars and said the actress "added a much needed boost GH's teen scene." Campbell said Mikayla had "been stealing scenes all year on General Hospital as Josslyn’s best friend." ''Soap Opera Digest'' said "Three cheers for Trina Robinson, a breath of fresh air in GH's teen scene." The magazine hailed Mikayla as "a charismatic actress, who has created a believable, likable, down-to-earth figure in Trina." ''Digest'' also noted that "her charm isn't just limited to her peers: Mikayla made a strong impression working opposite Maura West. €¦We hope the show has big plans €¦for this rising star." Tamilu of ''Soap Central'' praised the show's casting of its younger characters, including Mikayla as Trina. Each character "holds my interest because each of them is an interesting character in their own right." In 2020, ''Soap Opera Digest's'' Editorial director Stephanie Sloane said "Sydney Mikayla has been quite a find as GH's Trina." Thompson described Trina as a "fantastic supporting player." In celebration of Mikayla's first anniversary in 2020, Campbell said "It’s hard to just not love young Trina on General Hospital. €¦The actress has taken a character just meant to be the best friend of a legacy character and made her someone to root for every day." Cushman said Mikayla is "my favorite of the younger cast." ''Soap Opera Digest's'' Mara Levinsky said the actress "earned her way from sidekick to centerpiece in GH's teen scene." Carly Silver credited Mikayla for making Trina "one of the most compelling teen characters in Port Charles." Silver said "the sky's the limit for Trina!" Silver later stated that Mikayla found "success on the show, with fans, writers, and critics alike." ''Soaps In Depth'' said "We immediately felt a connection between Trina and her new boss, Ava." Campbell said "Watching Mikayla with Maura West now that Trina is Ava’s art protégé is another delight and an inspired pairing." Thompson described the revelation that Taggert was Trina's father as a "stunner" and said "it's about time we finally meet members of Trina's family." ''Soaps In Depth'' was excited by the prospect of Trina being connected to the canvas and said "more story for Sydney Mikayla – who played as beautifully opposite Donnell Turner's Curtis as she has every other scene partner she's had – is a good thing in our book." Cushman said "it was a nice surprise, one I and likely others didn’t see coming." While intrigued by Trina's tie to Taggert, Tamilu of ''Soap Central'' felt his return in the midst of a brewing mob war made him "expendable" as there hadn't been any significant casualties to further plot. "That's how you do it" Hinsey said in praise of the writers slow approach to expanding Trina. She continued that Trina "was eased into the canvas before viewers met" her family. Mikayla received critical acclaim for her performance in the wake of Trina's abduction and her grief over Taggert. Mikayla was awarded with ''Soap Opera Digest's'' Performer of the Week. Cushman said Mikayla was "absolutely fantastic." Meanwhile, Markos Papadatos of ''Digital Journal'' said "one can feel Mikayla's pain and raw emotions" in the "powerful scenes." He continued, "Whenever she is given great written material to work with, she nails those scenes. Really well done." ''Soap Opera News'' also listed Mikayla as its Performer of the Week. The blog hailed her as "a star!" While they were already impressed, "she really shined this week! €¦Sydney did a fantastic job of portraying Trina’s fear and need to save her father." Liz Masters felt "cheated y Taggert's "death"because Taggert was written out when he had so much potential with Trina and Portia." Cushman insisted that Mikayla deserved Emmy recognition for her work throughout the story. Mikayla was nominated for Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series at the
48th Daytime Emmy Awards The 48th Daytime Emmy Awards, presented by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS), honored the best in U.S. daytime television programming in 2020. It took place on June 25, 2021, as a remotely-produced special due to the COV ...
for the scenes. Mikayla lost to ''
Days of Our Lives ''Days of Our Lives'' (also stylized as ''Days of our Lives''; simply referred to as ''Days'' or ''DOOL'') is an American television soap opera that streams on the streaming service Peacock. The soap, which aired on the American television net ...
'' actor
Victoria Konefal Victoria Konefal is an American actress. She has portrayed Ciara Brady Weston on the NBC soap opera ''Days of Our Lives'' since 2017. Early life Konefal was born in Brooklyn, New York. Her family consists of her parents, an older brother and si ...
, who plays
Ciara Brady Ciara Brady Weston is a fictional character from ''Days of Our Lives'', an American soap opera on the NBC network. Created by Hogan Sheffer and Meg Kelly, the role is portrayed by Victoria Konefal since 2017. She is a member of three of the most ...
. Cushman said Mikayla "gave yet another Daytime Emmy worthy performance as Trina. The grief and rage this young actress has portrayed through the storyline has been totally believable." ''
Michael Fairman TV There are multiple media outlets which focus primarily on television soap operas and telenovela A telenovela is a type of a television serial drama or soap opera produced primarily in Latin America. The word combines ''tele'' (for "television" ...
'' praised Mikayla for delivering her scenes opposite a temporary recast in Asante Jones, "not Andrews, whom she had previously developed an on-screen chemistry with as father/daughter." The site later said, Mikayla "showed she can make the most out of heavy emotional material … and she holds her own in scenes with the one and only Maura West, too." In 2021, Silver stated that Mikayla "has been wowing audiences since 2019." Cushman said "I’ve sung this young actress’ praise several times and still hope to see her up for a Daytime Emmy." Smith said the actress "has won hearts for her tender portrayal." Smith added that if not for Mikayla, "Trina could have easily been a one-note character." ''Soap Opera Digest'' praised the dynamic between Mikayla and Kerr as Trina confronted Portia about her affair. In 2023, Charlie Mason from ''
Soaps She Knows There are multiple media outlets which focus primarily on television soap operas and telenovela A telenovela is a type of a television serial drama or soap opera produced primarily in Latin America. The word combines ''tele'' (for "television" ...
'' placed Trina and Spencer as a shared entry (at #39 and #38) on his ranked list of ''General Hospital’s 40+ Greatest Characters of All Time'', commenting "Yes, these two lovebirds have to share an entry. How could they not? From the moment
Nikolas Cassadine Nikolas Cassadine is a fictional character from ''General Hospital'', an American soap opera on the ABC network. Originated by actor Tyler Christopher in 1996, he left the show on July 14, 1999. Due to Nikolas' importance on the soap, he was imm ...
and
Courtney Matthews Courtney Matthews is a fictional character from ''General Hospital'', an American soap opera on the American Broadcasting Company, ABC network. She is the daughter of Mike Corbin and Janine Matthews, and the half sister of mobster Sonny Corinthos. ...
’ son was reintroduced as a brooding young man, we’ve been all about his ultimate pairing with beleaguered heroine Trina."


References

{{DEFAULTSORT:Robinson, Trina General Hospital characters African-American characters in television Female characters in television Teenage characters in television Television characters introduced in 2017