I'm not going to mind them bringing on a bunch of twentysomethings as long as they can at least half-way act and their storylines are good. And I'm definately looking forward to sweeps this year. I have to admit, the show is picking up lately, in a big way. I just hope it lasts. The writing seems more lively and suited to the characters, even.
Characters being used, interacting, well it's just a lot more fun than it's been in ages.
I wasn't yet watching at the time, but many fans claim that Frankie's brutal death was the beginning of the end for Another World. It's quite symbolic that Culliton would give AMC new life by integrating a character named Frankie. I'm sure it was deliberate on his part. Neat, subtle, respectful touch. You're so right, it was more brutal than some of the primetime series at the time.