We're you surprised when you read the Daytime Emmy nominations this morning? You're not alone.

There were some major surprises in the Daytime Emmy nominations today, starting with the fact that while 'General Hospital' garnered the most nods with 18, the two actors who had a chance to be nominated in the Outstanding Lead Actor category, Maurice Benard and Anthony Geary, were shut out.

Also, the lead actress recognized, Sarah Brown, is off the show now. Still, the likelihood for 'GH' walking away with the top prize is pretty good.

'GH,' which has won this category more than any other soap – ten times – is a good bet to win again, and 'AMC' was recognized with its 29th Outstanding Series nod. 'The Young and the Restless' returned to this category after being shunned in 2009. The last year of 'Guiding Light,' however, was not included. In other interesting notes, David Canary of 'All My Children,' who announced his retirement this year, was not included, nor was last year's winner Christian J. Le Blanc of 'Y&R.'

However, two stars from 'As the World Turns,' the CBS soap that's ending in September, was recognized for two male leads, Michael Park and Jon Lindstrom. 'Y&R's' Peter Bergman will go up against Doug Davidson, and could cancel each other out, as could the two 'ATWT' actors. Does that put James Scott, a first time nominee for 'Days of Our Lives' in a better position? Perhaps.

Among the Outstanding Actresses, it's a stunner that 'B&B's' Susan Flannery was passed over, and 'Y&R's' Jeanne Cooper, too. Former winner Michelle Stafford could snag a third Emmy for 'Y&R,' but 'ATWT's' Maura West is working on her fourth consecutive nod. She's got to be seen as a tough out. My gut reaction is that Crystal Chappell of 'Guiding Light,' will take home the prize. Maybe a bit of 'GL' nostalgia at work.

In supporting actor, I'm sticking with 'Y&R's' Billy Miller as the favorite, although 'GH's' Jonathan Jackson is a previous winner with clout. Among the supporting actresses, it was great to see Carolyn Hennesy snag a nom for her role as Diane Miller on 'GH.' She has tough competition from Bree Williamson from 'OLTL,' as well as Julie Pinson of 'ATWT,' both repeat nominees.