Already have an account?
Get back to the

Breaking News

New Head Writer at AMC!

Amidst cancellation rumors, AMC has signed Lorraine Broderick to a multi-year deal as head writer, replacing David Kreizman and Donna Swajeski. Broderick has a long history with the soap and the daytime community. She joined AMC as a scriptwriter and breakdown writer in 1979 and was promoted to associate head writer in 1982. In 1986, she was promoted to the co-head writer position and named sole head writer a year later. After leaving AMC, she served as co-head writer of GL and head writer for AW. She returned to AMC, then left again and toiled at ATWT, DAYS, PC and OLTL. Broderick returned to AMC as associate head writer in 2009 and has earned four Emmys with the sudser during her many years there. More ABC Cancellation Rumors
TV Guide‘s Michael Logan reports that there’s strong buzz about going on that ABC may not just cancel AMC, as reported in this week’s cover story in Soap Opera Digest, but OLTL may be on the chopping block, as well. “Word is, ABC Daytime chief Brian Frons has a talk show and reality show lined up for fall — both of them much cheaper to produce than soaps — and he needs to clear the schedule,” states Logan. For more on Logan’s story, click here. Having been reassured that no change was imminent, the AMC cast had relaxed a bit, but the new twist on the rumor sent jitters anew throughout the industry. Fans, make your voices heard!Happy Anniversary, GH!

It may be April Fool’s Day but this is no prank: GENERAL HOSPITAL celebrates it’s 48th birthday today. The then-30 minute, black and white sudser debuted on April 1, 1963. With the cancellation of AS THE WORLD TURNS last year, GH is now the longest-running soap on the air.



Cheers, Port Charles, and many happy returns!
Genie Francis Heads to Y&R
Looks like it’s going to be a while before GENERAL HOSPITAL fans get to see Laura return to Port Charles, since her portrayer, Genie Francis, is joining YOUNG AND RESTLESS, according to EW.com. The actress will play the mother of the deceased Cane (Daniel Goddard). Despite the character’s sudden death last month, Cane has been haunting Lily since his demise. Francis joins her former GH co-stars Tristan Rogers (Cane; ex-Robert), Kin Shriner (Jeffrey; ex-Scott), Stephen Nichols (Tucker; ex-Stefan) and Judith Chapman (Gloria; ex-Ginny), who are also ensconced in Genoa City. No first airdate has been announced at this time.GL Alums Wed
Congrats to longtime GL loves Rob Bogue (ex-Mallet) and Mandy Bruno (ex-Marina), who celebrated their wedding with family and friends in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico on March 26. Bridesmaid Marcy Rylan (Abby, Y&R; ex-Lizzie) tweeted “We done got her married!” and posted a photo of herself with the bride. Bradley Cole (ex-Warren, GH; ex-Jeffrey, GL) was also in attendance and played guitar at the ceremony.
OLTL’s Austin Williams Honored

Austin Williams (Shane) will be honored for his portrayal of his Llanview
alter’s emotional storyline, which highlights the harsh, negative realities
of bullying, at the 7th Annual Prestige Awards. The awards salute
individuals in the arts and entertainment who are making a difference in
society or giving back to communities. The awards will take place in
Poughkeepsie, NY, on April 3, 2011. Congrats!Haskell Out?

WeLoveSoaps.com is reporting that Susan Haskell is out as ONE LIFE TO LIVE’s Marty. A spokesperson for the ABC soap reminds us that they don’t comment on rumors. Haskell returned to OLTL in mid-2008. She won a Daytime Emmy as Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2009; she won as Outstanding Supporting Actress in 1994.
Farley Granger Dead at 85

1950s screen idol Farley Granger, who made a second career in daytime, died at his home in Manhattan on Sunday, March 27. The 85 year old actor died of natural causes. In addition to starring in several classic Alfred Hitchcock films including Rope in 1948 and Strangers on a Train in 1951, Granger was Dr. Will Vernon on ONE LIFE TO LIVE from 1976-77 for which he nominated for a Daytime Emmy as Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series in 1977. He went on to play Trent Archer on THE EDGE OF NIGHT from 1979-80. He was Earl Mitchell, one of Lisa’s many husbands, on AS THE WORLD TURNS in 1986. In 2007, he published his autobiography, “Include Me Out: My Life from Goldwyn to Broadway” with his longtime partner Robert Calhoun, a producer at ATWT and GUIDING LIGHT, who died in 2008.

“I think I’m too old for soaps,” the actor chuckled to Weekly in March of 2007. “It’s just hard work! Soaps, they’re terrific, but I never felt that I was good on soaps. I lacked…I don’t know whether it’s a gene or talent or whatever. There’s a certain [thing] that you have to develop to be able to work under those rushed and hectic and crazy circumstances.”

Weekly editor Mala Bhattacharjee revisited a 2007 interview with Granger here.
FIRST LOOK: Martsolf in Hero Mode!

TV Guide magazine has a first look at DAYS OF OUR LIVES’s Eric Martsolf (Brady) as SMALLVILLE’s “glory-seeking showboat” Booster Gold. The episode “Booster,” is slated to air April 22 on The CW.
DAYS Stars Host Fundraiser
On June 5, James Scott (EJ), Crystal Chappell (Carly) and Shawn Christian (Daniel) are hosting a picnic/wine tasting to raise money for a friend in need. For more info about the event, check out James’s video or go to http://www.facebook.com/daysfriendshelping and http://funds.gofundme.com/35hto. Also follow @DaysFriendsHelp on Twitter for messages from John and his team.Rebecca Staab Clears Up Wedding Rumors

Recently, William de Vry (ex-Storm, B&B, et al) posted on his Facebook page that he was married to Rebecca Staab (ex-Jessica, GL, ex-April, Y&R, et al). However, the actress clarifies that she and her longtime boyfriend have not yet actually tied the knot. “Will and I are not married!” she laughs. “We live together and have been together for four years, so we pretty much are married, but we haven’t made anything official.” So then why did de Vry list “married” as his status? “He gets a lot of suggestive messages, to put it nicely,” explains Staab, “and saying that he was in a relationship didn’t stop them from coming in. So he was hoping to stop those messages and let women know that he’s not available. We just didn’t expect the news to travel so quickly through the soap community,” she marvels. “Friends and family were like, ‘Why didn’t you tell us?’ and we were like, ‘Because there’s nothing to tell!’ What was sweet, though, was that everyone was so happy for us, even if it wasn’t true.” Meantime, the non-newlyweds are doing well, she reports. “Things are great between us,” Staab smiles. “We eventually do want to get married and just haven’t had the time to plan a wedding. But when we do, I promise that everyone will know about it!”WONDER-ful News For AMC Alum
According to published reports, Justin Bruening (ex-Jamie, ALL MY CHILDREN) has scored the coveted role of WONDER WOMAN love interest Steve Trevor in the much-talked about NBC pilot. FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS’ Adrianne Palicki (ex-Tyra) will be the one wielding the lasso of truth! As previously reported, Bruening’s real-life bride and former AMC co-star Alexa Havins (ex-Babe) will be starring on the fourth season of TORCHWOOD, debuting in July on STARZ.

Y&R Star On Her Exit
YOUNG AND RESTLESS’s on set party to celebrate 38 years on the air was a particularly special — but bittersweet — occasion for Emily O’Brien (Jana). It was announced earlier this week that she is leaving the show. “The Young and the Restless has been around for 38 years and I feel very proud to have been a part of it for five of those years,” the actress shares. Does she have post-Y&R plans? “I’ll definitely be pursuing New York theater,” she answers. “As for now, I’m going to see if I can get anywhere with film. But New York is on my mind. Broadway is a passion of mine.” At press time, a last airdate was not announced for O’Brien.
Contact Info for AMC Execs
All My Children

Prospect Studios

4151 Prospect Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90027



ABC comment line: 818- 460-7477 (Listen to the prompts and then press 255 for AMC) Messages are 30 seconds in length.



Brian Frons

President, ABC Daytime

2300 Riverside Drive

Burbank, CA 91506


E-Mail: Brian.frons@abc.com


Brian Fron’s direct office line: 818-460-7020


AMC Publicist Michael A. Cohen 818-460-7128.


Julie Hanan Carruthers, Executive Producer

E-Mail: julie.carruthers@abc.com


Anne Sweeney

President, ABC Television

ABC Studios

500 South Buena Vista Street

Burbank CA 91521


Anne Sweeney direct office line: 818 460-7700


E-Mail: Anne.x.Sweeney@email.Disney.com
GH’s Anthony Geary Speaks Out On Elizabeth Taylor’s Passing

“Elizabeth was more than a great star, she was an amazing human being,” noted the six-time Emmy winner in a statement. “Her world famous physical beauty paled in comparison to the beauty that radiated from her heart and soul. She had great humor, didn’t take herself too seriously, and had the most wonderful bawdy laugh. She was a fierce and loyal friend and tireless advocate. She dedicated herself to education, treatment and the search for a cure for HIV/AIDS long before it was fashionable to do so. Back in the dark days of ignorance and prejudice against people stricken with the disease, Elizabeth was at the forefront of the battle. Ever ready to give love, comfort, and dignity to those whose lives had been devastated and cut short, her generosity was nothing short of spectacular. It made her furious to hear anyone claim that people who had HIV/AIDS were somehow morally inferior or that the disease was some kind of punishment. I was fortunate enough to call her my friend and every moment I spent in her company was unforgettable. I loved her very much. The world is a little darker, a little colder, a little less beautiful without her.”AMC’s Goldin on Rumors: “Not True”
Hot on the heels of an all-cast meeting held by AMC’s Executive Producer Julie Carruthers, Digest spoke to Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake, AMC) about the future of Pine Valley. The actor offers a much more positive view than what’s been circulating on the Internet. “We have been told by the powers-that-be we’re not going anywhere, that the rumors are not true and we would have been the first to know,” Goldin reports. “These are all vicious rumors. To see false rumors affect or impact a legacy television program like this would be a sin.” But that’s not to say that the cast wasn’t concerned. “It was a bit of a downer that we’ve all been fielding questions and texts and e-mails from people who love us, our family and friends,” he notes. “My mom called and asked me if the show was going off the air. That doesn’t set you up for a good day at work. That was so yesterday. And everybody is fine today.” Nevertheless, the actor urges the fans to show their support for the 41-year-old sudser. “Now is the time to let their voices be heard,” he says. “And they can do that by calling this phone number: 818-460-7477, press 1, then 2, then 3, then 255 for ALL MY CHILDREN and tell the powers-that-be that they support and love the show and that if the show doesn’t go anywhere, they’re not going anywhere.” For more from the actor, check out a future issue of Digest. And for more AMC contact info, click here.GH’s Adrianna Leon is Out

Adrianna Leon (Brook Lynn) will be departing GENERAL HOSPITAL in April, according to published reports. Brook will leave Port Charles in her rear-view in order to go on a singing tour. However, since the role is recurring, Leon/Brook could easily return. “Yes, it’s true but thank God it’s a soap,” the actress wrote on her Twitter page. “Hellos, Goodbyes…. What do they really mean?” A setsider adds, “Adrianna was always a recurring character, ever since she came back last spring, so Brook can come and go as she pleases.” Roscoe Born Sings

Roscoe Born (ex-Mitch, OLTL; ex-Tom, Y&R; ex-Jim, AMC and more) has a new song on YouTube. “It’s a song I wrote for my father when one of his dearest friends was about to pass,” Born wrote WEEKLY. “My dad’s 90 and in excellent health, but he’s lost a lot of people in the last 5 or 10 years. My mom died from Alzheimer’s in 2003, so I also had her in mind as the song was coming to me.” Check out “I will be your song” by Roscoe Born on YouTube.
GH’s Christopher on Exit

Tyler Christopher (Nikolas, GH) spoke to Digest about his GH exit. “I haven’t even had time to absorb it,” he admits. “It was pretty unexpected. I didn’t really see it coming.” The actor, who played the role from 1996-99 and 2003-present, says he doesn’t know his last airdate. “I think I’m done. To be honest, I have no idea. No one’s told me anything but for me, I think I need to move on, so this is it.” For more, check out an upcoming issue of Digest. Elizabeth Taylor Dead at 79

One of classic Hollywood’s lights has gone out for good. Elizabeth Taylor, who graced daytime as the original Helena Cassadine on GENERAL HOSPITAL in 1981 and also guest-starred on ALL MY CHILDREN in 1984, passed away early this morning in Los Angeles of heart failure. The actress had been ill for some time.


“She was surrounded by her children: Michael Wilding, Jr., Christopher Wilding, Liza Todd and Maria Burton,” Taylor’s publicist, Sally Morrison, said in a statement. In the same statement, Michael Wilding, Jr. (ex-Jackson, GL), 58, memorialized his mother. “My Mother was an extraordinary woman who lived life to the fullest, with great passion, humor, and love,” he said. “Though her loss is devastating to those of us who held her so close and so dear, we will always be inspired by her enduring contribution to our world. Her remarkable body of work in film, her ongoing success as a businesswoman, and her brave and relentless advocacy in the fight against HIV/AIDS, all make us all incredibly proud of what she accomplished. We know, quite simply, that the world is a better place for Mom having lived in it. Her legacy will never fade, her spirit will always be with us, and her love will live forever in our hearts.”GH Casting News
Elvis is in the building! GH has hired child actor Elvis Martinez to play Lucian, who may (or may not!) be Brenda’s presumed dead son. He first airs the week of April 4. See the 4/5 issue of Digest for more.Y&R Actress Out

Soap Opera Digest has learned that Emmy-nominated actress Emily O’Brien (Jana) has been let go. No word yet on a last airdate.AMC on the Brink of Cancellation?

A growing number of media outlets are reporting that ABC is on the verge of axing ALL MY CHILDREN, the youngest soap (at 41 years old) in its venerable lineup. Though the network hasn’t axed a soap since PORT CHARLES bit the dust in 2003, the well-documented financial troubles of the soap industry have forced ABC to make some drastic moves over the past few years, including transplanting AMC to cheaper L.A. digs. Talk of AMC’s cancellation heated up when the network began to develop the Tori Spelling talk show that is rumored to be taking its time slot. A network rep isn’t issuing any denials, but dismisses the chatter, telling Digest, “The piece is just another story in a long line of stories about this same topic again and again.”
UPDATE: Daytime Emmy Broadcast

CBS has confirmed that the Tiffany Network will indeed broadcast the 38th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards live on Sunday, June 19 at the Las Vegas Hilton. In a statement, David McKenzie, executive producer and ATI president said, “We are delighted to be working again with NATAS [National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences] and CBS after last year’s great success. Daytime television continues to be a dominant force in the industry and we’re proud that we’re bringing this special night honoring the daytime community to a wide television audience.” Nominations will be announced on May 11.GH’s Tyler Christopher out

Tyler Christopher (Nikolas) was let go by GENERAL HOSPITAL on Friday, freeing him up to star in a prime-time series on ABC Family which will debut August 15, according to published reports. No final airdate has been announced, but he is expected to leave within the next few weeks.



The actor created the role in 1996, left in 1999 and returned 2003. He was nominated for a Daytime Emmy as Outstanding Younger Actor in 1998, and Outstanding Supporting Actor in 2005 and 2006.



ABC Family has ordered 10 episodes of THE LYING GAME, which will feature Christopher in the recurring role of Detective Matthews, and stars Alexandra Chando (ex-Maddie, AS THE WORLD TURNS) as a foster child who discovers she has an identical twin.
A Shiner For DAYS’s Drake

Drake Hogestyn (ex-John, DAYS), who is appearing in Judgment at Nurenberg at the Santa Monica Playhouse in CA, is curiously sporting a black eye. Digest got the scoop from the actor, who was injured while working out at the gym: “I was doing what they call cantilever triceps push down reverse with 150 pounds from a high cable pull, on my knees,” he explains. “Dick Van Dyke came in early and he likes to use this one bar that has rubber handles and I like to use a diamond grip that’s all metal. I was talking to him because he tore his Achilles’ tendon and had surgery and he’s trying to get himself back in shape. He’s such a sweetheart. So I have this routine and I’m sweating and he keeps changing my diamond bar and putting on his rubber bar, so in my third revolution of doing this, 28 minutes into the workout, I said, ‘I’m not going to switch the diamond bar; I’m just going to use the rubber bar,’ and my sweaty palm ripped off the bar and 150 pounds came back and smacked me right in the face. I got lucky that it didn’t implode my eye. So I got an ice bag on that and cleaned the blood up and I got home and [daughter] Whitney was there and I put my sunglasses on really fast. I had a cup of coffee and she said, ‘Why do you have your sunglasses on?’ So I showed her my eye and she started screaming and took a picture of it right away and e-mailed it to [doctor daughter] Rachael and right away, Rachael is boom on the phone saying, ‘I’ve already called the Malibu emergency room. You have to go in there right now and get your eye sewn up or else you’re going to have a droopy eyelid because it’s not going to heal.’ And now I have the black eye. It’s really pretty.” For more from the actor — who talks about a DAYS return — be sure to pick up your new Digest. Guza’s Future at GH in Question

We’re hearing that Robert Guza, Jr. is on his way out as GENERAL HOSPITAL’s head writer. ABC Daytime doesn’t comment on rumors, but an insider tells us there’s a good chance it’s true.


UPDATE: A GENERAL HOSPITAL spokesperson reports that Guza is not exiting the show.CASTLE Delivers the Drama
Don’t miss CASTLE this Monday, March 21, when Castle (Nathan Fillion; ex-Joey, OLTL) and Beckett (Stana Katic) have to solve a murder on the set of the fictional soap TEMPTATION LANE. The episode, cleverly titled “One Life to Lose,” also features AMC stars Cameron Mathison and Rebecca Budig (Ryan and Greenlee) as well as former daytimer Corbin Bernsen (Y&R, RYAN’S HOPE).



Budig said she was thrilled to reunite with Fillion. “We knew each other when I was on GUIDING LIGHT [as Michelle, from 1995-98] and he was always super, super sweet,” Budig added. “I gotta say, it was so refreshing to see someone like that who has become so successful and has totally not changed… He was so welcoming and kind, he gave me the biggest hug and just kept saying how excited he was that we [Budig, Mathison, Bernsen and the other special guest star Jane Seymour] were there. I can’t say enough about him. He’s an amazing guy. He’s adorable.”
OLTL’s Erika Slezak Celebrates Milestone
Happy St. Patrick’s Day and Happy Anniversary to OLTL’s Erika Slezak (Viki), who celebrates 40 years in Llanview today, March 17! Digest and Weekly were there as the cast and crew gathered at the set this afternoon to honor the actress with a surprise party, highlight reel and video tribute featuring some of her OLTL cast members as well as CASTLE’s Nathan Fillion (ex-Joey), the ladies of THE VIEW, OLTL creator Agnes Nixon and Anthony Geary (Luke, GH). Slezak was overwhelmed with emotion at the party, saying, “I’ve been here for 40 years because I love it. I’m so grateful for the job and to you, my family. It’s been just magical.” The show will continue the celebration with a special episode next month.UPDATE: Vote for OLTL Vet’s Real-Life Love
We recently reported that January LaVoy‘s (ex-Noelle, OLTL) fiancé, Mat Hotstetler, was in the running to be named Groom of the Year by brides.com. Well he’s now advanced to the next round of the competition! “I know your votes made the difference!” beams his bride-to-be. “Thank you so much … and I hope you vote to keep him advancing!” Check it out and vote here to help them win their dream honeymoon.Update On Y&R Switch

The show has just confirmed that Kevin G. Schmidt will reprise the role of Noah Newman, replacing Luke Kleintank, who had started only last September. Schmidt first airs April 14.



Cast Switch at Y&R?

On March 11, Kevin G. Schmidt (ex-Noah, Y&R) curiously wrote on Facebook, “Spent this morning in a familiar place my friends! Felt nice to be visiting. More details to come!” Three days later, soap columnist Nelson Branco posted on www.tvguide.ca that a Y&R role was recast with his predecessor. If Schmidt is indeed reprising his character, that would mean Luke Kleintank, whose Noah was recently sent off to New York for a music career, is out. For now, the show won’t officially confirm. Stay tuned…
SUNSET Vet Snags Pilot

SUNSET BEACH alum Eddie Cibrian (ex-Cole; ex-Jesse, CSI: MIAMI) has been hired to play the lead role in the NBC pilot PLAYBOY, replacing Jeff Hephner (Red, HELLCATS), according to TVLine. PLAYBOY is set in 1963 Chicago, and focuses on attorney Nick Dalton (Cibrian), who has shady ties to the mob and is a member of the ultraglamorous Playboy Club. Cibrian needs to hop to it: Filming for the potential fall series starts Tuesday in Chicago.ATWT Alum Lands FOX Pilot
Fan fave Eric Sheffer Stevens (ex-Reid) has been cast on the FOX comedy, I HATE MY TEENAGE DAUGHTER alongside Jamie Pressley, according to Deadline.com. Congrats!

Dancing With The Soap Stars

Soap Opera Weekly pays tribute to many of the soap actors who have competed on DANCING WITH THE STARS in our brand-new issue, with a cover date of March 22, 2011. It’s a great photo spread. Remember GH’s Kelly Monaco won the very first trophy in 2005?! Daytime rules!OLTL Casting News

Brian Kerwin (Charlie) out at OLTL. Details to follow.New Love Interest For Y&R’s Sharon?
According to tvguide.com, Sean Patrick Flanery (THE YOUNG INDIANA JONES CHRONICLES, THE DEAD ZONE and Powder) has been cast as Sam, a country veterinarian, who will become close to the beleaguered Sharon (Sharon Case). Flanery begins airing in mid-April.Bid For a Chance to Meet an ABC Soap Star

Meeting your favorite ABC daytime actor is just a click away. CharityBuzz.com, an auction site, offers 20 chances to win things like going backstage, to an acting lesson with OLTL’s Florencia Lozano (Téa) and Ted King (Tomas). Check out all the items up for auction here! Proceeds of the auction support Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS, an organization working to fund the social service work of The Actors Fund and award grants to AIDS service organizations nationwide. Kin Shriner Steps in at Y&R
YOUNG AND RESTLESS has announced that Kin Shriner (ex-Scotty, GH) will temporarily replace Ted Shackelford in the role of Jeffrey Bardwell. No reason was given for the sudden casting except that Shackelford “is not available” for the episodes that will air in late April. Shriner, who will be reunited with former GH co-star Judith Chapman (Gloria, Y&R: ex-Ginny, GH), previously played Harrison Bartlett on Y&R for several months in 2004.
Say Goodbye to GREEK!

The soapy collegiate comedy GREEK deactivates from the ABC Family line-up
tonight after a four season run. Will Casey (Spencer Grammer; ex-Lucy, AS THE WORLD TURNS) be able to move on from ZBZ? Can Cappie save the KT house from destruction? Will Evan and Rebecca reunite? For those answers — and Cappie’s real name — viewers can “rush” to ABC Family tonight at 9 p.m.
Zimmer And Newman Reunite

Kim Zimmer (Echo, OLTL; ex-Reva, GL) and Robert Newman (ex-Josh, GL) will reunite this spring in the musical murder mystery Curtains. The production of the Broadway hit debuts at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston from March 29 – April 10. It then moves to the Paper Mill Playhouse from April 27 – May 22. For ticket details visit TUTS.com for the Houston show and papermill.org for the New Jersey show. GH Takes No. 2 In Ratings

Sonny and Brenda’s wedding scored big for GH. The Nielsen numbers were released today and the ABC sudser pulled into the No. 2 spot in the household ratings, unseating perennial powerhouse B&B.NAACP Honors Daytime Drama on the 42nd Annual Image Awards

For the first time, the NAACP Image Awards will air the TV Daytime Drama categories live on-air during its annual award ceremony, held this Friday, March 4, from 8-10 p.m. on Fox. This year’s nominees include:

— Outstanding Actress in a Daytime Drama Series: Debbi Morgan as Angie on ALL MY CHILDREN; Julia Pace Mitchell as Sofia on YOUNG AND RESTLESS; Tatyana Ali as Roxanne on YOUNG AND RESTLESS; Tonya Lee Williams as Olivia on YOUNG AND RESTLESS; and Yvette Freeman as Dr. Lewis on BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL.

— Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series: Aaron D. Spears as Justin on BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL; Cornelius Smith Jr. as Frankie on ALL MY CHILDREN; Darnell Williams as Jesse on ALL MY CHILDREN; and Rodney Saulsberry as Anthony on BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL.
DAYS Casting News
Soap Opera Digest has learned that Bren Foster has been hired to play the new role of Quinn (“Fletcher” in the breakdowns). The actor, who was born in London and raised in Australia, adds another accent to the cast and will first air in scenes with Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe) in early May.
Daytime Emmy Update!
Though the network isn’t officially confirming, Soap Opera Digest has learned that the June 19 telecast will be broadcast again on CBS.DAYS’s Koslow to Prime Time
Lauren Koslow (Kate, DAYS) makes an appearance on tonight’s episode of CRIMINAL MINDS: SUSPECT BEHAVIOR. “It was fun to go out of the sandbox and play somewhere else,” she raves. “Whenever you do something outside your regular line of work, it makes me nervous. It definitely was fun, though. It’s a completely different kind of character from Kate; a straight-laced attorney who works for a hospital. She gets in some very hot water…” The show airs on CBS at 10 p.m.Reaction to Ex Soap Actor’s Oscar Win
You can color Peter Bergman (Jack, Y&R) especially happy about Melissa Leo copping the Oscar in the Outstanding Supporting Actress category for The Fighter. That’s because Bergman co-starred with Leo when they briefly played siblings on AMC in 1984 (he was Cliff, she was Linda). “I was thrilled to see her win acting’s ultimate prize last night,” smiles Bergman, who wasn’t all that surprised when Leo dropped the F bomb while on stage to pick up her trophy. “Her acceptance speech reminded me that she was quite the saucy firebrand back then, as well,” Bergman chuckles. “She’s a wonderful actress and truly deserved her Oscar.”Emmy Pre-noms Announced!

The pre-nominations for the 38th annual Daytime Emmy awards have been announced. The final list of nominees is announced on May 11 and the statuettes will be presented on June 19 in Las Vegas. Let the fun begin!


Outstanding Lead Actor Pre-Nominees:

AMC’s Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake) and Michael E. Knight (Tad)

ATWT’s Jon Lindstrom (Craig) and Michael Park (Jack)

B&B’s Don Diamont (Bill) and Jack Wagner (Nick)

DAYS’ Peter Reckell (Bo) and James Scott (EJ)

GH’s Maurice Benard (Sonny) and Steve Burton (Jason)

OLTL’s Jerry verDorn (Clint) and Robert S. Woods (Bo)

Y&R’s Peter Bergman (Jack) and Christian LeBlanc (Michael)


Outstanding Lead Actress Pre-Nominees:

AMC’s Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), Alicia Minshew (Kendall) and Debbi Morgan (Angie)

ATWT’s Maura West (Carly) and Colleen Zenk (Barbara)

B&B’s Susan Flannery (Stephanie) and Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke)

DAYS’ Kristian Alfonso (Hope) and Alison Sweeney (Sami)

GH’s Kelly Monaco (Sam) and Laura Wright (Carly)

OLTL’s Kassie DePaiva (Blair) and Gina Tognoni (Kelly)

Y&R’s Jeanne Cooper (Kay) and Michelle Stafford (Phyllis)



Outstanding Supporting Actor Pre-Nominees:

AMC’s Cornelius Smith, Jr. (Frankie) and Jacob Young (JR)

ATWT’s Trent Dawson (Henry) and Eric Sheffer Stevens (Reid)

B&B’s Patrick Duffy (Stephen) and Rick Hearst (Whip)

DAYS’ Shawn Christian (Daniel) and Jay Johnson (Philip)

GH’s Jonathan Jackson (Lucky) and Jason Thompson (Patrick)

OLTL’s Brian Kerwin (Charlie) and Mark Lawson (Brody)

Y&R’s Doug Davidson (Paul) and Billy Miller (Billy)




Outstanding Supporting Actress Pre-Nominees:

AMC’s Melissa Claire Egan (Annie) and Chrishell Stause (Amanda)

ATWT’s Terri Conn (Colombino) (Katie), Lesli Kay (Molly) and Julie Pinson (Janet)

B&B’s Adrienne Frantz (Amber) and Heather Tom (Katie)

DAYS’ Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe) and Arianne Zucker (Nicole)

GH’s Julie Marie Berman (Lulu) and Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis)

OLTL’s Robin Strasser (Dorian) and Bree Williamson (Jessica)

Y&R’s Tricia Cast (Nina), Amelia Heinle (Victoria) and Elizabeth Hendrickson (Chloe)



Outstanding Younger Actor Pre-Nominees:

AMC’s Finn Wittrock (Damon)

ATWT’s Mick Hazen (Parker)

B&B’s Scott Clifton (Liam) and Zack Conroy (Oliver)

DAYS’ Casey Deidrick (Chad) and Chandler Massey (Will)

GH’s Chad Duell (Michael) and Nathan Parsons (Ethan)

OLTL’s Eddie Alderson (Matthew) and David Gregory (Ford)



Outstanding Younger Actress Pre-Nominees:

AMC’s Brittany Allen (Marissa) and Natalie Hall (Colby)

B&B’s Jacqueline MacInnes Wood (Steffy) and Kim Matula (Hope)

DAYS’ Molly Burnett (Melanie) and Shelley Hennig (Stephanie)

GH’s Lexi Ainsworth (Kristina) and Haley Pullos (Molly)

OLTL’s Kristen Alderson (Starr) and Brittany Underwood (Langston)

Y&R’s Emily O’Brien (Jana)
GL Alum Welcomes Baby Girl

Bethany Joy Galeotti (Hayley, ONE TREE HILL; ex-Michelle, GL) revealed on her blog yesterday morning that she has given birth to a daughter. “Michael [Galeotti] and I are pleased to announce the arrival of our beautiful girl, Maria,” she wrote. “I’ll probably be MIA from my blog for a few weeks as we adjust to life with our girl, but I’m hoping to bring in a few ‘guest editors’! Bless you guys and thanks for all your thoughts and prayers! xoxo Michael & Joy.” Michael Galeotti has soap ties himself — he is a member of the band Enation with GHer Jonathan Jackson (Lucky).GH Star to Welcome Daughter
Bradford Anderson (Spinelli, GH) announced on Twitter last night that he and his wife Kiera are expecting. He wrote, “I am the luckiest guy alive. Not only do I have the most bestest wife, she is carrying our little girl…due to arrive this July. AMAZING.” Congrats!OLTL’s HW Ron Carlivati Addresses Todd Drama!

The scribe recently hinted to Digest that the rumors (and multiple on-screen teases) surrounding Roger Howarth‘s (ex-Paul, ATWT; ex-Todd) possible return to Llanview aren’t for naught. “We know that Todd has a different face and that’s an established part of the story,” he explains. “We’re playing on that history and use it in the mystery that we started to tell with Blair and Tomas. The savvy viewer will notice. So it opens up a lot of questions and possibilities. There is definitely an element of the mystery that is connected to the way Todd used to look,” he offers.
Soap Ties to New ABC Family Show

ABC Family has picked up a new one-hour drama called THE LYING GAME, which will star Alexandra Chando (ex-Maddie, ATWT), as Emma, a sweet foster child who discovers she has an identical twin sister named Sutton. Blair Redford (ex-Oscar, 90210; ex-Miguel, PASSIONS; ex-Scott, Y&R) also appears in it as Garrett Matthews, as well as GH’s Tyler Christopher, who plays Det. Matthews. AMC and GH’s former Head Writer Chuck Pratt, Jr. is executive producer.
B&B’s Brown Dropped to Recurring

A spokesperson for B&B confirms that three-time Daytime Emmy winner Sarah Joy Brown (Aggie) has moved to recurring status. Though Brown is not featured in the new credits, the rep assures Digest that the actress will still be seen on the show. Brown joined B&B in November 2009 as Sandy Sommers, the woman whom Bridget and Nick hired to be a surrogate. However, the next year, Sandy revealed that she was a rape victim and was really Whip’s cousin, Agnes Jones. Recently, Aggie has had a romance with Jack Wagner‘s Nick.
Former Y&R Star Dead
Christopher Templeton, who played Jabot’s loyal secretary Carole Robbins Evans from 1983-93, passed away on February 15, in San Antonio, TX, at the age of 58. Templeton battled polio her entire life. “I worked with Chris a lot,” says Eileen Davidson (Ashley). “I had so much respect for her. She was a very talented actress, very professional and had a terrific sense of humor. She also made it difficult to believe that she had a disability.” To view a video of Templeton’s life and leave condolences for the family, go to www.ebensberger-fisher.com and select the “obituaries” tab.ABC Confirms Herbst is Staying!

ABC Daytime finally gave the official word that GH’s Rebecca Herbst (Liz) will not be leaving the show, which Digest reported on Friday. Look for an exciting storyline for her character in March!
Dr. Joe Comes Home to AMC
Original AMC cast member Ray MacDonnell, who retired from the role of Dr. Joe Martin when the show relocated to Los Angeles in 2010, will reprise the part in March when Joe (and Lee Meriwether‘s Ruth) return home for a Martin family event.Rebecca Herbst Update

ABC isn’t talking (yet), but Digest confirms Rebecca Herbst (Liz, GH) is staying! The fans have spoken and the show reversed its decision to write her out. Stay tuned.



Herbst Stays?

Though ABC Daytime isn’t confirming, rumors are swirling that GH’s Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth) could be staying in Port Charles. Her co-star Laura Wright (Carly) tweeted this morning: “I thinks its true Becky is STAYING!” Keep checking back with us for more info.
B&B Stars Get THE TALK!
Check out CBS’s THE TALK today and tomorrow at 2 p.m. EST, as the stars of BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL drop by to chat! Today, Thursday, will feature the men of B&B — Ronn Moss (Ridge), Zack Conroy (Oliver), Jack Wagner (Nick) and Texas Battle (Marcus). Tomorrow, Friday, Susan Flannery (Stephanie), Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke) and Jacqueline MacInnes Wood (Steffy) will sit down with the ladies of THE TALK. Additionally, today’s episode boasts some exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of some unexpected guests dropping by the B&B set!
See Colleen Zenk Live!
AS THE WORLD TURNS’s Colleen Zenk (ex-Barbara) is debuting her brand-new one woman cabaret show, Colleen Zenk: Live! on April 8 at Bob Egan’s New Hope cabaret showroom in New Hope, Pennsylvania. A national tour will follow. For more information, visit www.colleenzenk.com.Soap Stars To Guest on My Big Gay Italian Wedding
Five soap actresses — Ellen Dolan (ex-Margo, ATWT), Kristen Alderson (Starr, OLTL), Brittany Underwood (Langston, OLTL), Marnie Schulenberg (ex-Alison, ATWT) and Ilene Kristen (Roxy, OLTL) — will appear in the off-Broadway production of My Big Gay Italian Wedding on March 17, 18 and 19 at 8 p.m. (Kristen is already in the show; she’s Aunt Toniann.) Tickets are available at Telecharge.com. For more on the show go to www.biggayitalianwedding.com.VIDEO: Drama Explodes at Sonny and Brenda’s Wedding!

Check out what’s in store for GH’s Sonny and Brenda as their wedding begins this Friday, Feb. 18!





More Casting at DAYS

DAYS has put out a casting call for Ryan, who is described as a “17 to 18-year-old Caucasian or African-American male. Ryan is the all-American high school idol. Gorgeous, well-built quarterback of the football team. Popular, confident and charismatic … the world is at his feet for the taking.” The role is contract and the character will start airing during May sweeps. Huge DAYS Casting Change!

Soap Opera Digest has learned that Emmy winner Natalia Livingston (ex-Emily/Rebecca, GH), who just started airing three weeks ago as DAYS’s Taylor, has been let go and replaced with another Emmy winner who used to call Port Charles home — Tamara Braun (ex-Ava, DAYS; ex-Carly, GH et al). Braun appeared as Ava in 2008 and took home a golden trophy for her Salem performances in 2009. She will start taping today; look for her to first air in late April. “It was decided to take the character of Taylor in a new direction,” explains Co-Executive Producer Gary Tomlin. “Natalia Livingston is an amazing actress and a consummate professional. She is a class act and everyone at the studio adores her.”

Watch GH with the stars!

Ever wish you could talk directly to the stars of GENERAL HOSPITAL while the show is in progress? Well, it’s not quite having Steve Burton at the kitchen table, but the network is celebrating Sonny and Brenda’s wedding by doing the next best thing with its special “Watch With GENERAL HOSPITAL” program. During the week of Feb. 21, viewers will be able to chat with and ask questions of your favorite actors while the show is airing live. In addition, talent will give exclusive “behind the scenes” commentary of that day’s episode. Log on to www.abc.com/ghchat each day to interact with the following talent (subject to change):

•Feb. 21 (3 p.m. ET) Laura Wright (Carly)

•Feb. 22 (3 p.m. ET) Vanessa Marcil Giovinazzo (Brenda)

•Feb. 23 (3 p.m. ET) Steve Burton (Jason)

•Feb. 24 (2 p.m. PT) Maurice Benard (Sonny)

•Feb. 25 (2 p.m. PT) Kimberly McCullough (Robin)
Y&R’s Rauch Out

Y&R’s Paul Rauch will leave his position as Co-Executive Producer of YOUNG AND RESTLESS, effective April 1, 2011. According to a statement, Rauch plans to return to the East Coast. “My collaboration with Steve Kent, and Maria and Bill Bell has been very rewarding. I have had great pleasure working with Y&R’s magnificent cast and crew. I feel that I’ve accomplished everything that I set out to achieve, and it’s now time for me to return to New York.”



Rauch, a 50-year veteran of the daytime world, was named Co-Executive Producer of YOUNG AND RESTLESS in September, 2008, and had stints as executive producer for soaps including ANOTHER WORLD, ONE LIFE TO LIVE, SANTA BARBARA and GUIDING LIGHT.



“Y&R has benefitted tremendously from Paul Rauch’s experience and knowledge,” added Executive Producer/Head Writer Maria Bell. “I’ve enjoyed our working relationship and wish him all the
Tune Into Tonja!

Want to hear Tonja Walker-Davidson (Alex, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) and Weekly‘s own Mala Bhattacharjee chat about romance and daytime? Check out Tonja’s radio show Straight Talk With Tonja Walker this Sunday, Feb. 13, between 2-3 p.m. EST. New York City/Westchester County area fans can tune the AM dial to 1400 WSTC and 1350 WNLK, and everyone can catch the show streaming on the Internet at http://wstcwnlk.com.
Zimmer Joins Off-Broadway Hit

Kim Zimmer (Echo, OLTL) has joined the cast of the off-Broadway production of Love, Loss, and What I Wore by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron. Zimmer will be treading the boards beginning Feb. 16 through March 20 at New York’s Westside Theatre. For tickets and more information, go to www.lovelossonstage.com.
Metcalfe Lands DALLAS Gig

The cast of the TNT reboot of DALLAS continues to grow: Jesse Metcalfe (ex-John, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES; ex-Miguel, PASSIONS) has been cast as Christopher Ewing, Bobby and Pam’s adopted son. Metcalfe will play a key role in the updated version, which focuses on the rivalry between Bobby (Patrick Duffy; Stephen, B&B) and J.R.’s (Larry Hagman) sons. B&B’s Wagner on His HOT Role
Tonight, Jack Wagner (Nick, B&B) is guest starring as Valerie Bertinelli‘s (Melanie) love interest on TV Land’s hit HOT IN CLEVELAND. “I play a doctor, but he’s not anything like Dr. Peter Burns,” chuckles Wagner of his shady MELROSE PLACE alter ego. “The pace is very different on a sitcom, though. On soaps, it’s so fast, while on sitcoms, there’s so much downtime that you kind of have to pull yourself back into it. It’s a luxury.”



He also enjoyed working with Bertinelli. “She and I actually know each other because our kids were in the same class,” he reveals. “We know each other from school events and functions. Also, I was a tour guide at Universal Studios right out of drama school and just went down to the casting office of ONE DAY AT A TIME and was an extra in the episode where Valerie’s character [Barbara] got married. I never told her that! But it really is a small world.”


Catch his episode tonight on TV Land at 10 p.m EST.
Daytime Emmy Pre-Pre-Nomination List Revealed

It’s that time of year again! Here’s the unofficial list of who’s in the running to make the final cut for nominations for the 38th Annual Daytime Emmys. Click here for Nelson Branco‘s full report at TV Guide Canada Online. The official pre-nom list will be released on Feb. 25.Daytime Stars Crash THE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW!

On Wednesday, February 9, Oprah Winfrey is hosting some of the biggest icons of daytime soaps as part of her own iconic final season. Featured are such touchstones and stars as Luke and Laura’s wedding on GENERAL HOSPITAL (guests Anthony Geary and Genie Francis); ultimate diva Erica Kane and her many ALL MY CHILDREN marriages (Susan Lucci is reunited with eight of Erica’s mates); AMC supercouple and fan faves Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams (Angie and Jesse); AMC’s infamous Tad the Cad (Michael E. Knight); and the pioneering, enduring Kay Chancellor (Jeanne Cooper) on YOUNG AND RESTLESS. For a preview visit YouTube.The Search is on For New Y&R Role

Y&R is looking for a big-name Caucasian or Latino actor in the mid 30s to late 40s range to play a rough-and-tough but sexy (of course) cowboy, who hails from a rural ranch out West. “A strong but silent, salt of the earth type, he is a smart guy who chooses to live a simple life working with his hands,” reads the character description that has been circulating. This will be a contract role set to begin in early March.New OLTL CD on iTunes

ONE LIFE TO LIVE stars Kristen Alderson (Starr), Kassie DePaiva (Blair), David Gregory (Ford), Kelley Missal (Danielle) and Brittany Underwood (Langston) perform original songs on OLTL’s Valentine’s Day CD called “The Sound of a Kiss” available on iTunes February 8 for $5.99. “With the release of ‘The Sound of a Kiss,’ we continue to explore opportunities to incorporate music into ONE LIFE TO LIVE which has always been very important to us,” said Frank Valentini, executive producer. “The audience has a passionate investment in our characters and this CD affords the opportunity to create a deeper connection between the fans and the show.” “It’s been great getting everyone back into the recording studio for this project,” added Paul Glass, supervising music director. “There are a couple of tracks that the fans have been asking for and that we have been wanting to get out there: the song Kelley Missal sang at Todd and Téa’s wedding and Kassie DePaiva‘s song from New Year’s Eve. We have some great new tracks from Kristen Alderson, David Gregory and Brittany Underwood, as well as the song that Kassie sings on the show this Valentine’s Day. I really feel like this album has something for every fan!”

B&B’s Wagner Gets HOT

Jack Wagner (Nick, B&B) is guest-starring on HOT IN CLEVELAND, Wednesday, February 9 on TV Land at 10 p.m./9 p.m. C. Check local listings or head to tvland.com for more information.B&B’s Matula to Prime Time

Kimberly Matula (Hope, B&B) is guest-starring on THE DEFENDERS, Friday, February 11 on CBS at 8/7 C. Check local listings or head to CBS.com for more information.Y&R Star Divorcing

During her appearance on the MARILYN DENIS SHOW today, which airs in Canada, Tracey E. Bregman (Lauren, Y&R), who had been married since 1987 to Ronn Recht, revealed that she is single now. “I feel so good,” she said in the interview. “I think it’s about me being happy now and kind of putting myself first… I’m 47 and I need to be happy.”
CASTLE Starts Filming Soap-Themed Episode Next Week

Rebecca Budig (Greenlee, AMC), Cameron Mathison (Ryan, AMC) and Corbin Bernsen (ex-Father John, Y&R; ex-Durant, GH) will guest star on a soap-themed episode of ABC’s CASTLE to air in March. In the episode, Nathan Fillion‘s (ex-Joey, OLTL) character investigates a murder on the set of the fictional sudser TEMPTATION LANE. Budig plays Mandy Bronson, a sexually charged actress; Mathison plays Vince Bowers, a TEMPTATION LANE director; and Bernsen plays veteran soap star Lance Buchanan. “I start shooting on Monday,” Budig tells Digest, who shares, “I had my costume fitting last week and ran into Nathan. He’s just as nice as I remember him to be when he was on ONE LIFE!”THE TALK and B&B

Be sure to catch BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL’s guest star Kathryn Joosten today (Feb. 4) on THE TALK. Joosten, who will play herself, will promote B&B’s very special 6000th episode — clips will be shown! The 6000th episode airs Monday, Feb. 7. THE TALK airs daily on CBS at 2 p.m. ET.
Soap Stars to Prime Time

Marcy Rylan (Abby, Y&R) will co-star with Captain Kirk, er, William Shatner when she makes a guest appearance on his hit sitcom, $*#! MY DAD SAYS, airing February 10. In the episode, Rylan will play Rebecca, an old acquaintance of Henry’s (Jonathan Sadowski).



OLTL’s David Fumero (Cristian) is set to appear on the February 20 episode of CSI: MIAMI. GH alum Robert LaSardo (ex-Manny/Mateo) also guests on the episode.

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL Goes Live!

On Monday, February 7, fans are invited to join B&B for the show’s 6000th episode event, which will be streaming live online. To join in, log onto www.boldandthebeautiful.com at 9:30 a.m. PT/12:30 p.m. ET.
The Scoop on OLTL’s Rama

Bubbly actress Shenaz Treasurywala (Rama) has created a full back story for Rama, the brand new ONE LIFE TO LIVE character she plays. Ever wonder how she and Vimal got together? “It was an arranged marriage,” suggests Treasurywala. “She was very young when she married him. But she has grown to love him, he is her family now and he is a good husband and sends money home to his parents and hers. But Rama does wonder what it would be like to be with other men,” admits Treasurywala to Soap Opera Weekly. Hmmm… THAT will be interesting! For the full interview with Treasurywala, pick up the Feb. 15 issue of Weekly.
Goddard In Moped Accident: Update
Daniel Goddard (Cane, Y&R) addressed his injuries and the situation surrounding his moped accident in Cozumel, Mexico, while on the Soap Cruise on January 29 to Digest. “The cruise was wonderful; the moped was the issue!” he laughed. “They’ve x-rayed me and they know that I didn’t break anything, but it is pretty swollen,” he shared. “I broke the car and I broke the moped and I broke the gas pump that goes into the car that was parked — I snapped it off with my leg.” The actor is currently on the mend.OLTL Wins DGA Award

Congratulations to long time ONE LIFE TO LIVE director Larry Carpenter, who picked up his third DGA award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Daytime Serials at the 63rd Annual Directors Guild of America awards. Carpenter won for the direction of the day two of Starr X’ed Lovers. “I’m tremendously honored,” says Carpenter. “But no one person tells an hour of story-telling for television and I’m deeply grateful to the One Life to Live family for their exceptional, dedicated work. Especially to Frank Valentini, Executive Producer. Being a member of the DGA continues to fill me with awe and a deep responsibility to continue the work it’s done and continues to do. I’m a very happy fella right now!”

DALLAS Revived!

TNT plans to launch a new version of the hit primetime soap DALLAS this fall. The series, which previously aired on CBS from 1978 to 1991, will now focus on “the offspring of bitter rivals and brothers J.R. and Bobby Ewing,” according to show reps. Larry Hagman has verbally agreed to return as the Ewing family patriarch J.R., while Patrick Duffy (Stephen, B&B) and Linda Grey are said to be reprising their roles as Bobby and Sue Ellen. Deadline.com reported over the weekend that Jordana Brewster (Fast and Furious; ex-Nikki, ATWT) is the first DALLAS newcomer to be cast. She will play Elena, the daughter of a ranch cook involved with J.R.’s son John and Bobby and Pam’s (then-Victoria Principal) adopted son Christopher. It was also announced that Josh Henderson (DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES) will play John.






2010 NEWS ARCHIVE


AMCATWTB&BDAYS

GHOLTLY&R






2009 NEWS ARCHIVE


AMCATWTB&BDAYS

GHGLOLTLY&R

Filed Under:
Comments