Soap Opera Digest

Opinion: Soap Stories Coming Out of Left Field Aren’t as Effective as Ones That Build

Carolyn Hinsey — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 20:40:00 +0000

Jacinda’s exit on General Hospital was too sudden, as was Steffy dumping Finn on The Bold and the Beautiful and Danny’s new job on The Young and the Restless. But Beyond the Gates‘s Hayley vs. Dani is developing nicely and John Oliver got the pod treatment on Days of Our Lives.

Risky Business

GH is giving us whiplash lately, starting with Josslyn. The show spent over a year trying to convince us the perky volleyball player had morphed into a high-level WSB agent. Then she met up with the guy who beat up faux Ethan and he relayed that her father had named her CEO of JJE (Jasper Jacks Enterprises). Joss has no business training or college degree and we haven’t seen Jax in five years, but sure — hand her a billion-dollar company.

Joss: “He left full control of JJE to me without asking me.”

Carly: “That’s something he would do.”

Perhaps, but wouldn’t it make more sense to give Joss a logical romance instead of another illogical job? Valentin had thoughts.

Valentin (to Joss): “Can I jump in here? There are people out there willing to win your trust and sell your father’s business for parts. I know, because I’m one of them.”

Jax’s enemy Sonny could also zero in on JJE now that he’s quit the mob. He is also looking at Sidwell’s companies, announcing to Ric that he wants to move in a more “legitimate” direction.

Sonny: “Don’t worry, your billable hours won’t be cut.”

And here comes Drew, fresh out of “locked-in syndrome” (aka Willow drugging him), circling Sidwell’s properties. Valentin vs. Sonny vs. Drew would be an excellent cage match, especially since the universally hated Drew vowed he won’t stop until Sonny is a “broken man.” Even the mob haters are with Sonny on that one.

The biggest record scratch, though, was Jacinda’s abrupt exit. She was a former sex worker with a history of making bad choices, so that tracks. But getting “molly” from Ezra and using it to drug Willow does not. Jacinda was supposedly mad that Willow got a restraining order against her, but the impulsiveness of those two episodes undid 18 months of a really sweet romance between the girl from the wrong side of the tracks and the troubled heir to the Q fortune.

Michael: “I think it would be better if you left town.”

Jacinda: “People like me don’t get happy-ever-afters with people like you.”

Since when? Unusual romances are the bread-and-butter of soaps, and this one was gold. We can only hope Jacinda returns in dramatic fashion, pregnant with Michael’s baby or married to Tracy’s son Dillon or… ?

Her exit line was one for the books:

Jacinda (sobbing): “The life I wanted is the one I’m leaving.”

Team Jacinda!

No Grace In Monaco

An equally loud record scratch occurred on B&B, where two marriages that were happy one day imploded the next for reasons that made no sense.

Daphne and Carter got married in February and were trying to get pregnant. Then Daphne was told she can’t have kids and she dumped Carter right there in the office, announcing she was going back to Paris.

Daphne: “I never should have come to LA and fallen in love. It was a terrible mistake.”

Six months of trying and she’s done? “For better or worse” must mean something different in French. Mon Dieu.

Over in The Land Of Murderers Walking Free, Sheila booked a seat on the plane next to Finn and harassed him all the way to Monaco. He ordered her to take the next flight back to LA and went on to meet Steffy for a romantic reunion at “their” church, neglecting to mention his bio mother had been his travel companion. The duo took a beach walk and…

Steffy: “Sheila? You’re stalking us!”

Finn (to Sheila): “I told you to turn around and go home.”

Steffy: “You knew she was here and didn’t tell me?”

Finn made the incomprehensible choice to defend Sheila, saying she deserves a chance because Steffy’s mother Taylor is now with Sheila’s husband Deacon (?). Steffy had a meltdown, listing how Sheila shot her, shot Finn, shot Taylor, and said she’s petrified to be around her.

Steffy (throwing her wedding rings at Finn): “I can’t do this anymore. We’re done!”

Cut to Steffy on a plane back to LA drinking her body weight in alcohol. The 14-hour flight went by in two scenes and Steffy turned up at Forrester, where she found the freshly dumped Carter getting drunk, too. He put his hand on her shoulder and…

Steffy: “I’m tired of being the strongest person in the relationship.”

That’s a fair point since wishy-washy Finn has not protected his family from his murderous mother. But blowing up two marriages this fast with no buildup makes it look like these characters didn’t love each other. Once again: Marriage is not a plot point.

Heart Condition

Conversely, BTG has been building to a Dani/Hayley showdown for months and Bill’s heart attack (thanks to Hayley poisoning him) provided it. Hayley came off the elevator screaming like Shirley MacLaine in Terms of Endearment that she had to see Bill right now.

Hayley: “Where is my husband? I demand to know his condition! I want to see him immediately! I only want the best doctors! Take me to him.”

Dani: “Collect yourself. Your behavior is unacceptable.”

Hayley: “Who the hell do you think you’re talking to? Step off.”

Dani: “How about I step to you and show you exactly who I am?”

Cooler Duprees prevailed and the room fell silent after Dani declared, “I will always be here for my husband!” Um… whose husband? Anita and Vernon called a family meeting about the hold Bill still has on her (as evidenced by Bill asking to see Dani instead of Hayley when he woke up) but Dani deflected as usual.

Pitting the Dupree women against Hayley provided welcome advancement for this story, and Bill’s medical scares are opening his eyes to his true feelings for his ex-wife. But BTG can’t play him for a fool much longer without losing the respect he commands at Fairmont Crest.

Hayley (to Randy): “I could be a widow by morning.”

Not with Dani on the case.

Deep Water

I never thought I’d write something positive about a story based on hazardous waste, so give DAYS credit for inserting John Oliver into that otherwise ho-hum tale about tainted water near the Horton cabin. Oliver played Devlin St. John, a fast-talking, bespectacled, toupee-wearing water inspector who turned out to be almost as crooked as EJ DiMera. He offered to keep mum for some quality hush money and it did not go well.

Devlin: “I know what I saw with my own four eyes. My only goal here is to solve this city’s infrastructure crisis and maybe afford wine that doesn’t come in a box.”

He wound up with a syringe in his neck that erased his memory and was last seen in a pod in the basement clutching his briefcase.

Rita (to Devlin’s prone body): “You remind me of that man who calls himself a comedian but mostly just shouts the news. Good night, sweet prince.”

Can we all agree that stories about contaminated water work best in small doses? No need to build to anything: Get in, give us a prime-time star and some quality scenes with A-listers, and get out.

In The Shadows

Where do I start with Y&R? Formerly upstanding Nick Newman left rehab and had a one-night stand with a drug addict, Billy uncovered his own father, John Abbott, was the true owner of Chancellor (we think), and the long-absent Danny turned up with the keys to The Shadow Room.

Danny: “Meet the new man in charge!”

Christine: “This is the first I’m hearing of this.”

In real life, a husband would talk to his wife about a life-changing job that impacts both their lives, but it’s a soap, so I’ll allow it. But wow did Y&R fall down on the build-up: Danny sneaking around, Christine getting suspicious, Nina coming to GC to support her, Daniel getting involved, Phyllis sussing out Danny’s new job… make us care, people!

Hey. It’s only my opinion.

General Hospital Recap: Ric Catches Elizabeth with a Half-Naked Dante, Willow and Kai Face Off

Michelle Parkerton — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 19:00:36 +0000

On the Wednesday, August 19, episode of General Hospital, Ric’s (Rick Hearst) romantic proposal for Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst) hit a roadblock in the form of Dante (Dominic Zamprogna), Willow (Katelyn MacMullen) leveled a warning to Kai (Jens Austin Astrup), Donna (Scarlett Spears) tried to play matchmaker for Sonny (Maurice Benard), Jordan (Tanisha Harper) agreed to take over for Curtis (Donnell Turner) at Aurora, Ava (Maura West) had advice for Drew (Cameron Mathison), Emma (Braedyn Bruner) worried about her future with Gio (Giovanni Mazza), and more. Keep reading for all the details.

Put a Ring On It

While making invitations for a family barbecue, Donna told Sonny that she wanted to invite Justine because Justine made him happy. But Sonny made up an excuse that the lawyer was too busy to come.

Ric stopped by to show Sonny the engagement ring he’d gotten for Elizabeth. When Ric revealed he was proposing that night, Sonny questioned why his brother was in such a rush, especially since the couple hadn’t discussed marriage. Concealing his jealousy over Dante, Ric said he simply didn’t want to lose Elizabeth to another man — or have anything get screwed up between them — since he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her.

Slow Down: Sonny (Maurice Benard, l.) worried that Ric (Rick Hearst) was jumping the gun.
ABC

Sonny still felt his brother was basing the decision on insecurity and fear, but ultimately offered his support when Ric declared that he was a changed man because of Elizabeth. After Ric left, Sonny checked in on Donna. Her invitations were ready to be delivered, but she hid the one she’d made for Justine.

Too Close For Comfort

Dante ran into Elizabeth at the park and offered to help her build a bookcase after his softball game. Later, Dante arrived at her house, limping after hurting his knee during the game. Liz insisted upon examining his injury, which required him to take off his pants.

When Ric arrived — with a bouquet of red roses and the engagement ring, ready to propose — he freaked out when he peeked through the window and spied a half-naked Dante on the couch with Elizabeth. Storming into the house, Ric took both Liz and Dante by surprise as he demanded to know what was going on.

Playing Doctor: Ric caught Liz (Rebecca Herbst) and Dante (Dominic Zamprogna) in a compromising position.
ABC

‘Twas the Night Before Prison

Before he had to report to Pentonville, Curtis spent his last hours at home with Jordan and baby Des. As he grieved the time he’d be missing with his son, Jordan promised that she and Trina would make sure the baby knew who his father was while Curtis was gone.

Michael stopped by to discuss who would temporarily take Curtis’s place at Aurora. Curtis asked Jordan if she was interested in the CEO position, rather than working as a consultant for Valentin. After receiving encouragement from Michael and confirming with Curtis that he genuinely wanted her to step up, Jordan agreed to be Aurora’s interim CEO.

Down to Business: Curtis (Donnell Turner, l.) and Michael (Rory Gibson) persuaded Jordan (Tanisha Harper) to step in as Aurora’s CEO.
ABC

After Michael left, Curtis confided that knowing the company was in Jordan’s hands would make it easier for him. Then, the couple shared a hug, both wishing that Curtis didn’t have to go to prison at all.

Twisted Twosome

Following a frosty run-in with Drew at the pool, Nina asked Jack to again help her daughter by digging up dirt on Michael — and maybe even find proof that Michael and Jacinda had drugged Willow. Jack advised Nina to keep her nose out of Willow and Michael’s business and not enable her daughter any further. Nina then got a call from Willow and left.

Cut the Cord: Jack (Chris McKenna) warned Nina (Cynthia Watros) not to let Willow drag her down with her.
ABC

Across the deck, Drew met with Ava. When she fretted that Nina would wonder why she was meeting with him, Drew implied that Nina and Willow had done far worse to him than he’d done to them. He then informed Ava that Jason was no longer working for Sonny. Hoping to take advantage of Sonny’s weakened position, Drew asked Ava for advice on which of Sidwell’s holdings he should bid on in the auction, especially since Valentin was targeting assets as well. Eager to help Drew beat out both men, Ava said he had her full cooperation.

Jack approached the pair and gave Drew another veiled warning about making enemies when he had so much to hide. Once the WSB chief exited, Drew confided to Ava that Jack thought he had power over him. For now, Drew was playing along, but soon the tables would turn.

Dream Team: Ava (Maura West) agreed to help Drew (Cameron Mathison) beat his competition.
ABC

Take This Job And Shove It

Kai went to the gatehouse to deliver his letter of resignation to Willow, who coolly accused him of spreading false accusations about her. When he admitted to telling Michael that she’d shot Drew, Willow attempted to shift the blame onto Kai, but he stood his ground, relieved that the truth was out. As Kai was leaving, Willow warned him that walking away from the messy situation wouldn’t be as easy as he thought.

Once Nina arrived, Willow admitted that she should have heeded her mother’s warning not to escalate things with Michael, because she missed an opportunity to strike a truce with her ex. For now, Willow noted, she was okay playing by Michael’s rules because she wasn’t as powerless and alone as she’d been the last time she lived there: Now, she was a congresswoman with allies.

Not So Innocent: Willow (Katelyn MacMullen) warned Kai (Jens Austin Astrup) his hands weren’t clean, either.
ABC

Fake It ‘Till You Make It

During Gio and Trina’s meeting with Simon at the Surf Lodge, Emma wasn’t happy to hear that the label’s marketing plan was for Gio and Trina to pretend to be a couple. Gio and Trina were adamant they weren’t comfortable with the scene, but Simon encouraged them not to say they weren’t a couple, which meant they had to hide their respective relationships with Kai and Emma.

Kai pulled Trina outside to speak privately, which irked Simon. When Kai told his girlfriend he resigned as Willow’s intern, Trina was happy that they could finally move on. But Kai was clearly spooked by his conversation with Willow.

Playing Pretend: Trina (Tabyana Ali) and Gio (Giovanni Mazza, r.) told Simon (Grady Eldridge) they weren’t comfortable with his plan.
ABC

Emma told Gio that she didn’t want to hold him back in his career. Although Gio swore he didn’t want any success that came without her by his side, Emma was concerned about their future.

Do you think Ric will still propose to Elizabeth? Will Jordan make a good CEO? Is Emma and Gio’s relationship in trouble? Let us know what you thought about the latest episode of GH in the comments below, along with your theories of what will happen next!

General Hospital Fans Weigh In on the Future of Port Charles’ Mob

Mara Levinsky — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 16:40:22 +0000

The once unthinkable has happened on General Hospital: both Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) and Jason Morgan (Steve Burton) have left the mob. Now that Jason is focusing on being a good role model for his son, while Sonny is pursuing Sidwell’s (Carlo Rota) legitimate holdings after Sidwell’s plea deal and imprisonment, the storyline future of the Port Charles mob is very much in question. Soap Opera Digest asked fans what role they think organized crime should occupy in the world of Port Charles, and the results are in!

What Role Should The Mob Play On General Hospital?

The poll did not produce a clear favorite — but it did produce a clear preference against the powers-that-be putting the mob back at the center of General Hospital.

Readers were given four options to choose from, and the top vote-getter was to keep the mob in play, but mostly in the background and not as a main focus. That netted 31.79% of the responses.

In second place? Retiring the mob for good. The 29.5% of fans who opted for this choice have had their fill of Sonny and Jason’s three-decade storyline run of mob stories and are ready to move past it — forever.

The third most popular option was for the mob to be used in short story bursts. 27.86% of voters went in that direction, perhaps envisioning a world where a mob-affiliated character like Johnny Zacchara (Brandon Barash) or a back-from-the-dead Julian Jerome (William deVry) could come back into the mix to stir up trouble for a limited arc.

The top three vote-getters have one thing in common: they all support GH putting less focus — or no focus! — on the mob moving forward.

Equally as telling when it comes to where the viewers who voted in our poll view the mob at this juncture? Only 10.84% of voters chose the fourth option, which was for the mob to stay front and center.

While our poll is far from scientific, it suggests that only one in 10 viewers is truly interested in GH being as mob-centric as it was in the heyday of the Corinthos organization.

Do these results surprise you? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Career Pivot: Like many GH fans, Tracy (Jane Elliot) was in favor of Jason’s exit from the mob.
ABC

General Hospital’s Sawandi Wilson Gives Update on New Daughter After Harrowing Birth

Mara Levinsky — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 14:40:55 +0000

General Hospital star Sawandi Wilson (Isaiah) and his wife, Anna Eilinsfeld, welcomed a baby girl earlier this week — and after a harrowing birth experience, the actor opened up about his new daughter’s progress in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit).

Sawandi Wilson On Baby Girl’s Progress

On August 19, Wilson posted an Instagram video with the caption,“The NICU(Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) will humble you fast. Grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it. ”

In the video, the new father shared, “Day one of being a dad, she’s hooked up to machines to help her breathe.”

Wison noted that after his wife gave birth, “30 minutes later, my wife’s stitched up, thank God, but our baby’s on oxygen, headed to the NICU. The first time we see our daughter — like, technically, the first, day one of being a dad — she’s hooked up to machines to help her breathe. She’s hooked up to machines to help stabilize her glucose levels.”

The actor admitted to “walking into the NICU and being like, ‘Why? Why me? Why does it have to be us? Why this family? Why, why, why?”

But he quickly gained perspective. “Take a second, I look to my left, I see a baby that’s been in there for like two months, who’s getting ready for major cardiac surgery,” he said. “I look to my right and I see an empty bassinet. Who knows who came or went or if they survived. But then I looked straight ahead of me and I’m looking at my baby, and I’m trusting.”

Happily, Wilson and Eilinsfeld’s daughter is making wonderful progress. “Eventually, she gets off oxygen. Then she gets off the IV. And [being in the NICU] made her have a stronger recovery because any possible problems that could happen, [the medical team] were there. They were on top of it.”

View this post on Instagram

In an Instagram video posted on August 17, the actor first shared the news of his daughter’s birth and thanked the medical team who safely delivered his newborn. “I want to give a shout-out to the whole team at Cedars-Sinai Medical,” he said. “You guys are incredible. You saved my baby’s life. You saved my wife’s life, and you saved my life. So I love you guys. Thank you so much.”

Wilson went on to explain the dramatic circumstances surrounding his first child’s birth. “Outside the operating room. Not on the set of GH. This is real life, and I’m ready to meet my baby,” he recalled. “They called me in. I’m hearing alarms go off. A doctor shows me to my wife [and] before I get to her I see her intestines, and I’m seeing like the floor is slippery with blood.”

He continued, “And, there’s a screen covering her, so I can’t see her face. I see her, [and] she’s wide awake. She’s calm.” Shortly thereafter, “They pulled the baby out, and she’s barely crying.”

On her own Instagram Stories, Eilinsfeld reposted her husband’s video and added a reassuring message. “Me and Baby are recovering wonderfully,” she wrote.

Eisinfeld and Wilson tied the knot in 2024.
Instagram

General Hospital Spoilers Video: ‘Walking Away Unscathed Won’t Be as Simple as You Think’

Chris Eades — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 13:11:32 +0000

The General Hospital spoilers video for Wednesday, August 19, previews some plotting, some panic, and some words of warning!

Make the Right Choice

Ric (Rick Hearst) stops by Sonny’s (Maurice Benard) home to relay some potentially concerning news. “A situation has come up that I might need your input on,” the attorney shares. But does this have something to do with Sonny’s attempt to go legit or perhaps Ric’s growing jealousy over Liz’s (Rebecca Herbst) friendship with Dante (Dominic Zamprogna)?

During Drew’s (Cameron Mathison) last encounter with Ava (Maura West), she suggested that they join forces to bring Sonny down. Now, they’re meeting up at the pool, and over drinks, she jokes to him, “I had no idea that hell had frozen over.” Is she getting a new partner-in-crime in her war against Sonny?

Willow (Katelyn MacMullen) continues settling into the Quartermaine gatehouse as she adjusts to her new normal. She’s been forced to agree to this new living arrangement because Michael (Rory Gibson) learned she shot Drew, but there are still other secrets she’s desperate to keep under wraps so her life doesn’t completely implode. “Walking away unscathed won’t be as simple as you think,” a frustrated and frazzled Willow warns someone.

Jack (Chris McKenna) has helped Nina (Cynthia Watros) out of a few tight spots now, but as they sit meet up for cocktails, he implores her to take action before she finds herself in even more trouble. “Pull yourself back, Nina,” he urges, “before Willow takes you down with her.” But after everything she’s done to establish a relationship with her daughter, would Nina really cut ties with Willow just to save her own skin?

Check out this tease for the next all-new episode of GH, and if you haven’t already, be sure to check out the promo for the whole week!

15 Soap Stars Who Died Tragically

Mara Levinsky — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 20:42:11 +0000

As the soap world reels from the death of Hayden Panettiere (ex-Sarah, One Life to Live; ex-Lizzie, Guiding Light) at the age of 36, join Soap Opera Digest for a look back at 15 other stars whose tragic and untimely passings left fans and colleagues mourning, including Billy Miller (Drew, General Hospital), Kristoff St. John (Neil, The Young and the Restless) and Tyler Christopher (Nikolas, GH).

Richard Biggs, who starred as Marcus Hunter on Days of Our Lives and Clayton Boudreau on Guiding Light, was only 44 when he collapsed suddenly at home on May 24, 2004 and passed away at a hospital. His cause of death was determined to be a tear in his aorta. NBC " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2020/11/Richard-Biggs.jpg" >

NBC

Richard Biggs, who starred as Marcus Hunter on Days of Our Lives and Clayton Boudreau on Guiding Light, was only 44 when he collapsed suddenly at home on May 24, 2004 and passed away at a hospital. His cause of death was determined to be a tear in his aorta.

Daytime Emmy winner Tyler Christopher was beloved to General Hospital fans for his portrayal of Nikolas Cassadine. After a run on DAYS as Stefan, the actor — who had been candid about his struggles with bipolar depression and substance abused — passed away on October 31, 2023, at the age of 50 from positional asphyxia due to acute alcohol intoxication, leaving behind a young son and daughter. John Paschal/jpistudios.com " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/02/DAYS-Tyler-Christopher-JPI.jpg" >

John Paschal/jpistudios.com

Daytime Emmy winner Tyler Christopher was beloved to General Hospital fans for his portrayal of Nikolas Cassadine. After a run on DAYS as Stefan, the actor — who had been candid about his struggles with bipolar depression and substance abused — passed away on October 31, 2023, at the age of 50 from positional asphyxia due to acute alcohol intoxication, leaving behind a young son and daughter.

Josh Ryan Evans, who won two Soap Opera Digest Awards for his beloved role as Timmy on Passions, died from complications of a congenital heart condition on August 5, 2002, at just 20 — the same day the episode in which Timmy died aired. AARON MONTGOMERY/JPI " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2026/08/josh-ryan-evans.jpg" >

AARON MONTGOMERY/JPI

Josh Ryan Evans, who won two Soap Opera Digest Awards for his beloved role as Timmy on Passions, died from complications of a congenital heart condition on August 5, 2002, at just 20 — the same day the episode in which Timmy died aired.

Liver failure claimed the life of 47-year-old Joy Garrett, who played Boobsie Caswell on The Young and the Restless and Jo Johnson on Days of Our Lives (for which she won a Soap Opera Digest Award), on February 11, 1993. NBC/Courtesy Everett Collection " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2026/08/joy-garrett.jpg" >

NBC/Courtesy Everett Collection

Liver failure claimed the life of 47-year-old Joy Garrett, who played Boobsie Caswell on The Young and the Restless and Jo Johnson on Days of Our Lives (for which she won a Soap Opera Digest Award), on February 11, 1993.

Daytime Emmy-winning Another World alum Anne Heche, who played twins Vicky and Marley, died at 53 on August 11, 2022, six days after a fiery car crash in Los Angeles left her critically injured. She was declared brain-dead and taken off life support, and the medical examiner ruled her death an accident. Heche was survived by her two sons. COURTESY EVERETT COLLECTION " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2026/08/Anne-Heche-as-Vicky-e1787084178843.jpg" >

COURTESY EVERETT COLLECTION

Daytime Emmy-winning Another World alum Anne Heche, who played twins Vicky and Marley, died at 53 on August 11, 2022, six days after a fiery car crash in Los Angeles left her critically injured. She was declared brain-dead and taken off life support, and the medical examiner ruled her death an accident. Heche was survived by her two sons.

On July 3, 2006, As the World Turns veteran and Daytime Emmy winner Benjamin Hendrickson (ex-Hal Munson) was found dead at home from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the age of 55. The actor had reportedly battled with depression after the death of his mother. E.J. Carr /© CBS /Courtesy Everett Collection " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2026/08/Benjamin-Hendrickson.jpg" >

E.J. Carr /© CBS /Courtesy Everett Collection

On July 3, 2006, As the World Turns veteran and Daytime Emmy winner Benjamin Hendrickson (ex-Hal Munson) was found dead at home from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the age of 55. The actor had reportedly battled with depression after the death of his mother.

Nathaniel Marston (ex-Eddie Silva, As the World Turns; ex-Al Holden/Michael McBain on One Life to Live) was catastrophically injured in a car accident on October 30, 2015. Marston was placed on life support and passed away on November 11, 2015, at the age of 40. Yolanda Perez/ABC " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2026/08/Marston2006-scaled-1.jpg" >

Yolanda Perez/ABC

Nathaniel Marston (ex-Eddie Silva, As the World Turns; ex-Al Holden/Michael McBain on One Life to Live) was catastrophically injured in a car accident on October 30, 2015. Marston was placed on life support and passed away on November 11, 2015, at the age of 40.

Billy Miller, a three-time Daytime Emmy winner, starred as Richie Novak on All My Children, Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless, and Drew Cain on General Hospital. He died by suicide on September 15, 2023, at age 43 after what his mother called "a long hard valiant battle with bipolar depression." Rick Rowell/ABC " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2023/09/Billy-Miller-ABC-gal.jpg" >

Rick Rowell/ABC

Billy Miller, a three-time Daytime Emmy winner, starred as Richie Novak on All My Children, Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless, and Drew Cain on General Hospital. He died by suicide on September 15, 2023, at age 43 after what his mother called "a long hard valiant battle with bipolar depression."

Michael David Morrison was starring as Caleb Snyder on As the World Turns when, at the age of 33, he died from an accidental overdose of drugs and alcohol on February 18, 1993. He was survived by his wife and a three-year-old son. CBS /Courtesy Everett Collection " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2026/08/Michael-David-Morrison.jpg" >

CBS /Courtesy Everett Collection

Michael David Morrison was starring as Caleb Snyder on As the World Turns when, at the age of 33, he died from an accidental overdose of drugs and alcohol on February 18, 1993. He was survived by his wife and a three-year-old son.

Alec Musser landed his role as a recast of Del Henry on All My Children after winning the second season of the reality series I Wanna Be a Soap Star. He played the recurring role from 2005-07. At the age of 50, he died by suicide on January 12, 2024. Steven Bergman/AFF-USA.COM/MEGA " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2024/01/Alec-Musser.webp" >

Steven Bergman/AFF-USA.COM/MEGA

Alec Musser landed his role as a recast of Del Henry on All My Children after winning the second season of the reality series I Wanna Be a Soap Star. He played the recurring role from 2005-07. At the age of 50, he died by suicide on January 12, 2024.

As the World Turns star Marnie Schulenburg, who played Alison Stewart, died tragically at just 37 on May 17, 2022, after a battle with Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Schulenburg, who was diagnosed in 2020, was just days shy of her 38th birthday and was survived by her husband and their two-year-old daughter. John Paschal/jpistudios.com " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2022/05/Marnie-Schulenburg.jpg" >

John Paschal/jpistudios.com

As the World Turns star Marnie Schulenburg, who played Alison Stewart, died tragically at just 37 on May 17, 2022, after a battle with Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Schulenburg, who was diagnosed in 2020, was just days shy of her 38th birthday and was survived by her husband and their two-year-old daughter.

The Young and the Restless legend and two-time Daytime Emmy winner Kristoff St. John (ex-Neil) was found dead in his home at the age of 52 on February 3, 2019, five years after the tragic passing of his son, Julian, who was only 24. An autopsy attributed his death to heart disease, with alcohol as a contributing factor. Getty " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2020/07/Kristoff-St-John-CBS.jpg" >

Getty

The Young and the Restless legend and two-time Daytime Emmy winner Kristoff St. John (ex-Neil) was found dead in his home at the age of 52 on February 3, 2019, five years after the tragic passing of his son, Julian, who was only 24. An autopsy attributed his death to heart disease, with alcohol as a contributing factor.

Johnny Wactor, who starred as Brando Corbin on General Hospital from 2020-22, was just 37 when he was fatally shot on May 25, 2024, after confronting thieves attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car. ABC " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2025/06/johnny-wactor-general-hospital.jpg" >

ABC

Johnny Wactor, who starred as Brando Corbin on General Hospital from 2020-22, was just 37 when he was fatally shot on May 25, 2024, after confronting thieves attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car.

Pancreatic cancer claimed the life of Guiding Light's Vincent Williams (pictured with co-stars Amelia Marshall and Nia Long), who played Hampton Speakes from 1989-1996. He was only 39 when he passed away on January 6, 1997, and was survived by his wife and two young sons. E.J. CARR/CBS " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2026/08/amelia-marshall-vince-williams-nia-long-e1787075447922.jpg" >

E.J. CARR/CBS

Pancreatic cancer claimed the life of Guiding Light's Vincent Williams (pictured with co-stars Amelia Marshall and Nia Long), who played Hampton Speakes from 1989-1996. He was only 39 when he passed away on January 6, 1997, and was survived by his wife and two young sons.

In 1997, just three years after winning a Daytime Emmy for his long-running role as Roger Thorpe on Guiding Light, Michael Zazlow was diagnosed with ALS and written off the show — but One Life to Live tapped him to reprise his previous character, David Renaldi, and wrote in his degenerative illness. On December 6, 1998, he died at the age of 56. E.J. Carr / TV Guide / ©CBS / courtesy Everett Collection " href="https://www.soapoperadigest.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2026/08/Michael-Zaslow.jpg" >

E.J. Carr / TV Guide / ©CBS / courtesy Everett Collection

In 1997, just three years after winning a Daytime Emmy for his long-running role as Roger Thorpe on Guiding Light, Michael Zazlow was diagnosed with ALS and written off the show — but One Life to Live tapped him to reprise his previous character, David Renaldi, and wrote in his degenerative illness. On December 6, 1998, he died at the age of 56.

General Hospital Recap: Sonny Becomes a Pawn in Anna’s Plan as Josslyn Tips Off Hudson About Phoebe

Michelle Parkerton — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 19:00:49 +0000

On the Tuesday, August 18, episode of General Hospital, Josslyn (Eden McCoy) said too much about Brook Lynn (Amanda Setton) and Chase’s (Josh Swickard) adopted daughter, Sonny (Maurice Benard) unknowingly aided Anna (Finola Hughes) in her revenge plan, Britt (Kelly Thiebaud) supported Jason’s (Steve Burton) career change, Ava (Maura West) had concerns about Lucas (Van Hansis) moving out,Trina (Tabyana Ali) reconnected with Quinn (Jequan Jackson) and more. Here’s everything that happened.

Loose Lips

Hudson lingered while Josslyn went over paperwork for Jasper Jacks Enterprises at the Quartermaine boathouse. When Brook Lynn and Chase arrived with Phoebe and Josslyn congratulated the couple on finalizing the baby’s adoption, Hudson’s curiosity pinged.

Baby Talk: Hudson (Troy Lennon Appel) had lots of questions for Brook Lynn (Amanda Setton, l.) and Josslyn (Eden McCoy) about little Phoebe.
ABC

Hudson and Josslyn brought their work up to the garage apartment, where he asked Josslyn about Phoebe’s adoption. As he learned the story of Phoebe’s birth — and that Phoebe’s “father” had consented to a closed adoption — Hudson grew suspicious. Josslyn ordered him to return to Australia until she named a CEO, but he adamantly insisted that he needed to stay in town until she found a candidate.

Family First

Back at the boathouse, Chase asked Brook Lynn how she was feeling about Willow moving back into the gatehouse. Chase also shared that he realized that he’d gone too far in defending Willow during the attempted murder trial. Brook Lynn admitted that she was uncomfortable with Willow living on the property, but the couple ultimately agreed that Willow wasn’t a threat to their marriage because Phoebe had put their relationship into perspective.

Family First: Brook Lynn assured Chase (Josh Swickard) she could handle Willow being around.
ABC

Remote Possibility

Anna stopped by to see Sonny. After they discussed his decision to take his coffee business legitimate, Anna opened up about her mental breakdown, a struggle that Sonny was able to relate to. Claiming that her time in the French clinic had made her claustrophobic, Anna asked Sonny to sell her a parcel of his mountaintop land where she could build a private retreat.

Sonny suggested Anna seek therapy, but she was non-committal when he offered to get her a referral from his psychiatrist. Before leaving, Anna again asked about the land. Sonny told her to get in touch with Diane, and she was adamant that her transaction remain a secret and stay between them. Once she got outside, Peter appeared and told Anna she didn’t need to see a shrink — because she had him.

Property Valued: Anna (Finola Hughes) inquired about purchasing some land from Sonny (Maurice Benard).
ABC

Couple Goals

At the park for softball, Jason (clad in an ELQ uniform) informed Britt that he was no longer working for Sonny nor was he a partner in Corinthos Coffee. Britt understood Jason’s desire to distance himself from the dangerous lifestyle for Danny’s sake but wondered if Jason would truly be able to walk away.

The couple also chatted about Cassius, and Britt revealed that because her mother was so devastated by Cassius’ death, Britt had asked to get information about her brother’s death. Jason apologized for not being around to help her with Cullum, but she was grateful that Jason had saved Rocco.

Now that she and Rocco were safe and he had a chance to make things up to Danny, Jason was determined to do better moving forward. After Britt shared that she was confident he could make the change, Jason said he’d do anything for the people he loved and kissed her.

Fresh Start: Britt (Kelly Thiebaud) was surprised and pleased to learn Jason (Steve Burton) was getting out of the mob.
ABC

Home Sweet Home

Before agreeing to sign the lease on the apartment at Marina Towers, Joe asked Lucy for clarification on her statement about Willow being on Route 91 the night of Curtis and Jordan’s accident. Although rattled, Lucy covered by claiming that Drew likely contradicted himself on the witness stand so Curtis would owe him a favor. Joe then electronically signed the lease, but it wouldn’t process through Lucy’s tablet. She guaranteed him she’d take care of it back at the office and left, while Joe stayed behind to take some measurements.

Across town, Lucas broke the news to Ava over lunch at the pool that he was moving into a new apartment that Elizabeth helped him find. Ava was concerned that her nephew was going out on his own too soon after losing Marco, but Lucas was insistent that he needed to move forward. Since he already had the keys, Lucas brought Ava over to see his new place, which she offered to help decorate. When Ava got sad that Lucas was truly moving out, he quipped that he’d only be across town, prompting her reply that she was done with men ghosting her. Ava shared that Ethan had left town to protect someone, and she hoped the sacrifice would be enough.

Room With a View: Lucy (Lynn Herring) tried to sell Joe (Jonathan Bennett) on an apartment, not realizing it wasn’t actually available.
ABC

Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing?

Trina and Gio met up at the Surf Lodge to discuss their music before a meeting with Simon. Trina confided that she’d been distracted lately because of her father’s upcoming prison sentence, which inspired her to write a song about regret. She was surprised when Emma arrived with Quinn after the pair had volunteered at the animal shelter together.

As he waited for his takeout order, Quinn questioned Trina about her change from art to music and learned that she and Gio had a gig coming up in a few weeks. After Quinn left, Trina commented to her friends that her first impression of Kai’s former teammate had been wrong. But as she and Gio shared photos of their cute baby siblings, a stalker watched Trina from outside the café…

Second Opinion: Trina (Tabyana Ali, far l.) saw a different side to Quinn (Jequan Jackson, l.) as they hung out with Emma (Braedyn Bruner) and Gio (Giovanni Mazza).
ABC

What is Anna’s plan for Sonny’s land? Do you think Hudson is Phoebe’s father? Is Quinn stalking Trina or is he a red herring? Do you think Quinn is Trina’s stalker? Let us know what you thought about the latest episode of GH in the comments below, along with your predictions as to what will happen next!

The Bold and the Beautiful: Steffy and Carter Have Sex as Finn and Daphne Return!

Chris Eades — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 18:49:51 +0000

On The Bold and the Beautiful, Steffy (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) and Carter (Lawrence Saint-Victor) were drunkenly drowning their sorrows together in the Monday, August 17 episode, and things looked set to turn physical at the cliffhanger. The Tuesday, August 18 episode revealed that yes, they slept together — and that the timing of their hook-up couldn’t have been worse!

Steffy and Carter Wake Up to Regret

Tuesday’s episode picked up the next morning, with an unclothed Steffy waking up on the couch in the main Forrester office. She was horrified to find Carter at the other end of the sofa, naked under the blankets.

Kicking him awake, Steffy gasped, “We shouldn’t have done this. Oh my God, I shouldn’t have done this!”

The two scrambled to get dressed, but Steffy’s panic only grew when she found her phone and saw multiple texts from her husband, Finn (Tanner Novlan), telling her he was on his way home. Carter agreed that what they had done was a terrible mistake and wanted to talk about it, but Steffy wanted to put the entire situation behind her and raced home.

Carter stayed behind to tidy up the office, where Daphne (Murielle Hilaire) soon arrived. She apologized for running away and said she wanted to make up for her “terrible, terrible mistake.”

Meanwhile, Steffy returned home and explained to Taylor (Rebecca Budig) what had happened between her, Finn and Sheila (Kimberlin Brown) in Monaco. When Finn arrived, Taylor excused herself, and he declared his love for Steffy and begged her forgiveness.

What Does This Mean for Steffy and Carter?

Steffy and Carter believed their marriages were over when they turned to each other, but Tuesday’s episode made clear that neither situation is as settled as they thought. Finn wants to repair his marriage to Steffy, while Daphne has returned to Carter and wants to make up for her own mistake.

That leaves Steffy and Carter facing the consequences of what happened at exactly the wrong time.

Neither Steffy nor Carter can undo what happened. The question now is whether they will keep their night together to themselves or whether the truth will eventually come out — and what that would mean for their marriages. Especially if one of them wants to come clean and the other one doesn’t, or if (in classic soap opera fashion) their one-night stand has resulted in an even more complicated scenario: a pregnancy!

Share your thoughts about this B&B storyline twist in the comments below!

Regrets Only: Carter (Lawrence Saint-Victor) and Steffy (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) woke up to a harsh new reality.
Howard Wise/jpistudios.com

General Hospital Spoilers Video: ‘Do You Really Think You Can Walk Away?’

Chris Eades — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 13:13:32 +0000

The General Hospital spoilers video for Tuesday, August 18, previews a tense situation, an ultimatum, a warning, and more.

Trouble on the Horizon

Brook Lynn (Amanda Setton) took Phoebe down to the lake to soak up the sun, and when Chase (Josh Swickard) joins them, talk naturally turns to Willow (Katelyn MacMullen) moving back onto the Quartermaine property. Brook Lynn is not overly thrilled about having her husband’s ex-wife living on the estate. “Coexist, maybe,” Brook Lynn admits to Chase. “Peacefully? That’s a big ask.” Should Brook Lynn still be worried about Willow sinking her claws into Chase again?

Ava (Maura West) sits down for a drink with Lucas (Van Hansis) by the pool and wonders why he wanted to get together. “Are we celebrating something?” she asks him. “Or should I brace myself?” Is Lucas going to share his good news about finding a place to live? Or has something gone wrong with that plan?

Josslyn (Eden McCoy) has been irritated ever since Hudson (Troy Lennon Appel) showed up in Port Charles to get her to run Jasper Jacks Enterprises, so she’s obviously not happy when the guy stops by her apartment. “I came here to do a job,” Hudson protests. “I’m not leaving until it’s done.” But can Joss find someone else to run her father’s business so she doesn’t have to?

Add Sonny (Maurice Benard) to the list of people on Anna’s (Finola Hughes) reunion tour now that she’s back in town following her treatment in France. When Anna stops by his place, she warns him that things aren’t exactly back to normal yet. “It’s not completely over,” she cautions. “There’s something else.”

In the park for another softball game, Jason (Steve Burton) takes some time to talk with Britt (Kelly Thiebaud) and update her on his big decision to stop working for Sonny and forge a new life for him and Danny (Asher Antonyzyn). “Do you really think you can walk away?” Britt worries. But is she concerned that Jason will change his mind, or that the mob life will suck him back in against his wishes?

Check out this tease for the next episode of GH, and if you haven’t already, be sure to check out the promo for the entire week!

Comings & Goings: Casting News for General Hospital, Young & Restless, DAYS, B&B and BTG Week of August 17

Mara Levinsky — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 20:55:42 +0000

What are the latest soap opera comings and goings? Check out up-to-date casting information about General Hospital, The Young and Restless, Beyond The Gates, The Bold and the Beautiful, and Days of Our Lives for the week of August 17.

Who’s Coming

Beyond The Gates

Nick Hagelin (Noah Rollins): Noah notches more air time this week — and catches a break courtesy of Nicole (Daphnee Duplaix).

Ashley Jones (Heather Armstrong): Heather’s storyline got a new wrinkle with the reveal that she shares a past with Andre (Sean Freeman)!

Robert Christopher Riley (Carlton Fitzgerald): Carlton offers Ted (Keith Dr. Robinson) an update on Tuesday, August 18.

Greg Vaughan (Kial Rollins): Look for to air again Kial on Thursday, August 20.

Jordi Vilasuso (Grayson Perez): Jacob turns to Greyson and Ashley (Jen Jacob) for help on Wednesday, August 19.

The Bold and the Beautiful

Sandra Aguilar and Michael Maloney (Cleaning Crew): This duo is on cleanup duty on Tuesday, August 18.

Lilli Bechard (Female Patron): Bechard’s episode airs on Friday, August 21.

Delon de Metz (Zende Forrester): RJ (Brayan Nicoletti) pitches a new idea to Zende on Thursday, August 20.

Sissy Sheridan (Jessica): Jessica’s next appearance is slated for Friday, August 21.

Days of Our Lives

Lamon Archey (Eli Grant): Archey will take part in an emotional episode airing on Friday, August 18.

Miles Anderson (Foster): On Tuesday, August 18, Foster’s date with Julie (Susan Seaforth Hayes) takes an unexpected turn.

Casey Moss (JJ Deveraux): JJ reaches out to his half sister Gwen (Emily O’Brien) on Tuesday, August 18.

Peter Porte (Dimitri Von Leuschner): On Wednesday, August 19, Dimitri hears a hard truth from Leo (Greg Rikaart).

Sal Stowers (Lani Grant): Lani and her husband, Eli, will recall the baby boy they lost, David, on Friday, August 18.

Louis Tomeo (Aaron Greene): Aaron and Ari (Vico Escoria) spend some quality time with baby Trey on Tuesday, August 18.

General Hospital

Asher Antonyzyn (Danny Morgan): Danny furthers his scheme against Drew (Cameron Mathison) later this week.

Bluesy Burke (Charlotte Cassadine): Charlotte is Danny’s co-conspirator in the teens’ plot to fight fire with fire where Drew is concerned.

Finn Carr (Rocco Falconeri): Carr shares scenes with his on-screen grandmother, Genie Francis (Laura), on Friday, August 21.

Rick Hearst (Ric Lansing): Ric is increasingly unamused by Elizabeth’s (Rebecca Herbst) growing closeness to Dante (Dominic Zamprogna) as the week unfolds.

Jequan Jackson (Quinn): Quinn is back on the scene this week as Kai’s (Jens Austin Astrup) former football teammate who may have an unhealthy interest in Trina (Tabyana Ali).

Kelly Kruger (Serena Baldwin): Serena did the unthinkable — talked some sense into Lucy (Lynn Herring)! — on Monday, August 17.

Carlo Rota (Jenz Sidwell): Sidwell took a plea deal sending him to Pentonville for decades — but the actor is far from done. He will be seen again this week in scenes with Sidwell’s sworn enemy, Sonny (Maurice Benard).

Scarlett Spears (Donna Corinthos): Sonny’s adorable daughter has a trick up her sleeve this week.

Kayden Brenna Tokarski (Scout Cain): Scout meets up with Danny behind Drew’s back on Friday, August 21.

The Young and the Restless

Tricia Cast (Nina Webster): Christine (Lauralee Bell) and Traci (Beth Maitland) are delighted to receive a visit from Nina this week.

Michael Damian (Danny Romalotti): On on Tuesday, August 18, Damian (as Danny) will perform the song, “All I Need is You” from his new album, Mixed Emotions, which also goes on sale that day.

Eileen Davidson (Ashley Abbott): Jack (Peter Bergman) confided in his sister on the Monday, August 17 episode.

Vivica A. Fox (Dr. Stephanie Simmons): Stephanie is back on the scene as Nate (Sean Dominic) inches toward a return to his medical career.

Who’s Going

Days of Our Lives

Nikki Crawford (Lexie Carver): Crawford made her DAYS debut on March 6, 2026 in the role of Abe’s (James Reynolds) back-from-the-dead wife, but her resurrection has an end date: the actress will make her final appearance on Friday, August 21.

John Oliver (Devlin St. John): The Emmy Award-winning host of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver concluded his Salem run on Friday, August 14. On his HBO show, he took a humorous look back on his appearance on DAYS. In the comment section, scene partner Dan Feuerriegel wrote, “Was a pleasure to work with you John .”

General Hospital

Paige Herschell (Jacinda Bracken): Herschell exited Port Charles last week after a 16-month run as Jacinda in what Soap Opera Digest confirmed was a storyline-dictated decision.

In Memoriam

Hayden Panettiere passed away on Sunday, August 17 at the age of 36. The Heroes and Nashville alum began her career in daytime, starring as Sarah Roberts on One Life to Live from 1994 until 1997 and on Guiding Light as Lizzie Spaulding from 1996 until 2000.

Casting About

B&B star Crew Morrow is starring in a new courtroom drama, Wildcards, reports Variety. He plays the lead role of Theodore Sterling, who is on trial for the alleged sexual assault of a Black woman. The movie will be released in select theaters on August 27.