Outstanding Lead Actress Winner: Mary Beth Evans (Kayla, DAYS) “I’m so shocked and overwhelmed, I don’t know what to say or do,” smiled Mary Beth Evans, who had already won an Emmy two nights before as THE BAY’s Sara. Her co-star Stephen Nichols, who she referred to as “my love, my partner,” was wiping away tears during her speech.
Outstanding Lead Actor Winner: Tyler Christopher (ex-Nikolas, GH) “Honestly, it wasn’t so much a surreal feeling as much as I was happy to have the chance to thank those people,” he said post-victory. “I owe so much to them.”
Photo credit: Chelsea Lauren/Shutterstock
Outstanding Supporting Actress Winner: Jessica Collins (ex-Avery, Y&R) “I can’t even remember my name!” exclaimed Jessica Collins, who welcomed daughter Jemma in January. “This is so incredible. I didn’t think 2016 could get any better ... I thought I’d used up all my good luck.... It’s such a wonderful end to a character I so much loved playing.”
Outstanding Younger Actress Winner: True O’Brien (ex-Paige, DAYS) When True O’Brien heard her name announced, “It took a moment to register. It was like being in a dream,” she shared. She took her real-life beau Casey Moss (JJ, DAYS) onstage to accept her award and became emotional when she mentioned him. “He is the best actor, best scene partner, boyfriend. I love him with all my heart. He’s a huge part of this. So I am excited to share it with him.” Of her win, Moss noted, “It was one of the best moments of my life."
Outstanding Younger Actor Winner: Bryan Craig (ex-Morgan, GH) “It’s great,” declared Bryan Craig of his first win, which capped his bipolar disorder storyline. “I’ve been nominated myself the past couple of years, but it feels like I’m really part of a group this year, and I really share this with everyone who does suffer from this illness. My mom suffers from mental illness, Maurice [Benard, Sonny] does, so this hits close to home, and it means a lot this year.”
Outstanding Guest Perfomer Winner: Obba Babatundé (Julius, B&B) “It feels sensational,” beamed Obba Babatundé. “It’s a joy unspeakable, to be honest with you. I’m very seldom lost for words, but this is an opportunity....”