ABC Press Release: Ratings For Week of December 17-21

* ABC's Daytime lineup (1.3 rating -tied /831,000) finished No. 1 for the week in the core demo Women 18-49.

* All four ABC Daytime Programs were up week to week among Women 18-34: "The View" (+3% - 341,000 vs. 332,000), "General Hospital" (+11% - 349,000 vs. 315,000), "One Life to Live" (+7% - 261,000 vs. 244,000) and "All My Children" (+28% - 290,000 vs. 227,000).

* ABC delivered 4 of the week's Top-5 ranking programs in Daytime in Women 18-49: "General Hospital" (#2 - 1.5 rating), "The View" (#4T - 1.2 rating), "One Life to Live" (#4T - 1.2 rating) and "All My Children" (#4T - 1.2 rating).

* "All My Children" was up week to week among Women 18-49 (+8% - 779,000 vs. 723,000) and "General Hospital" was up (+2% - 956,000 vs. 941,000).

Daytime Rank:     Total Viewers    Women 18-49 (Rtg/000s)
        No. 1 CBS  4.10 million    No. 1 NBC  1.3/882,000
        No. 2 ABC  2.82 million    No. 1 ABC  1.3/831,000
        No. 3 NBC  2.61 million    No. 3 CBS  1.2/823,000

Top 5 Daytime Programs in Women 18-49 (rank based on rating) 

Program                       Net         Rtg/000s
The Young & the Restless      CBS      1.7/1.14 million
General Hospital              ABC      1.5/956,000
Days of Our Lives             NBC      1.3/882,000
The View                      ABC      1.2/812,000
Bold & the Beautiful          CBS      1.2/802,000
All My Children               ABC      1.2/779,000
One Life to Live              ABC      1.2/777,000
As the World Turns            CBS      1.2/773,000

News Brief

Los Angeles Times: The plot thickens at strike-hit soaps. When talks broke down earlier this month between the studios and striking writers, it began to hit home that scribes could be jobless for many months to come. One of those writers finally made the agonizing decision to stop picketing and go back to work. "Daytime serials are not in a healthy situation," said the writer, who asked for anonymity, fearing fallout from both sides in the complex and highly charged standoff. "If we can keep shows on the air, I perceive it as something that needs to be done for the future generation of writers." David Rupel, a writer on "The Guiding Light," said all nine members of his team were on strike. However, he said WGA daytime committee members had conducted a lively debate via conference call on whether to seek interim agreements similar to the deal David Letterman's company, Worldwide Pants, worked out with the WGA. In the end, he said, "We agreed to abide by whatever deal gets made" by the WGA. "If they think it's a good idea strategically, we'd support that." "If some people weren't writing, we wouldn't have a show to come back to," said Tracey Thompson, a writer on "General Hospital." She said two of 10 writers on that show had returned "for personal reasons."

Boston Globe: Actor Ron Raines is best known to millions as the sometimes dastardly Alan Spaulding on the CBS soap opera "Guiding Light." But Raines was all smiles for the thousands at Symphony Hall hearing his "Gershwin & Friends" concerts with Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops over the weekend. Raines has his fifth show with the Pops tonight.

Worcester Telegram: Singer/songwriter Agona Hardison: "I’ve written songs for 'All My Children' and 'One Life to Live.' Composers send me a music file, I write lyrics and find the song, record it here at home and send it all back to them digitally to mix the final product."

Student Operated Press: Should "General Hospital" tone down the violence?

MyParkMag: EastEnders' Kevin and Shirley in car crash horror.

Daily Mail: Ex-EastEnders star Martine McCutcheon looked beach-happy as she frolicks in the sea with her new beau. The mystery man and Martine cuddled up in the warm waters off Barbados as she wound down from her filming schedule.

SNS: "Days of our Lives" star Julie Pinson fired? "She was told she will be done filming in January. She already has the scripts." (login required)

Metro: Former "Hollyoaks" star Mikyla Dodd is apparently set to feature in an upcoming episode of "Casualty." The 29-year-old actress, who starred as Chloe Bruce on Hollyoaks from 2000 to 2004, will guest star in an instalment of the BBC medical drama which will air in early January. She will play Clare, a young woman whose life is threatened when the caravan she lives in is accidentally hit by a lorry.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Rachel Ames (Audrey, GH/PC) - 79
Joanna Johnson (ex-Caroline, B&B) - 46
Don Diamont (Brad, Y&R/ex-Carlo, Days) - 45
Julian Stone (ex-Jerry, GH) - 45

WeLoveSoaps Top 10 Episodes of 2007

10. THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS – February 8, 2007. “The Young and the Restless” had some low moments this year and I was not a huge fan of Michelle Stafford playing a duel role as Sheila, but I did enjoy the February 8th episode as Phyllis and Sheila wrestled on the floor as gun-toting Lauren busted into the apartment not knowing which is which (“Don’t either of you move!”). This may not be a popular choice but I thought it was an exciting episode.

9. PASSIONS – September 7, 2007. “Passions” left the NBC network airwaves for DirecTV with this exciting finale as Sheridan saw a live feed video of Marty (alive and well), Valerie's true identity was revealed, Alistair watched Luis and Fancy through a monitor, Sam and Ivy kissed and Theresa told Ethan that he had a son. So many cliffhangers in one show.


8. AS THE WORLD TURNS – August 17, 2007. “As The World Turns” hit a home run with this landmark episode featuring the first kiss between Luke and Noah. The kiss was featured on “Entertainment Tonight,” Perez Hilton, Towleroad, TV Tattle and many other websites, magazines and newspapers. The YouTube video of the kiss is approaching a million hits, unheard of for daytime soaps. Aside from the kiss, Carly made a daring rescue of JJ and Alexandra Chando (Maddie) showed why she would be perfect in a good romantic comedy in her awkward scenes with Colonel Mayer. This might rank higher were it not for Carly falling into oatmeal quicksand at the end.

7. THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL – November 20, 2007. The Forrester Creations Fashion Show had ended and tensions were high. Eric was angry, Donna was upset, Katie found a gun in Brooke’s drawer and Stephanie was threatened by multiple people. Later, when she was alone in the showroom, Stephanie took a bullet kicking off the “Who Shot Stephanie?” storyline.


6. DAYS OF OUR LIVES – November 23, 2007. “Days of our Lives” is on the upswing possibly due to the addition of Ed Scott as Co-Executive Producer. The November 23rd episode, written by Tom Casiello, was a good example of why fans who have left the show should tune back in. A cast of familiar faces was featured at Belle and Shawn’s wedding and Martha Madison showed why she is a star in the making.

5. AS THE WORLD TURNS – December 21, 2007. After not doing much to celebrate Christmas the past few years, “As The World Turns” pulled out all the stops with this Victorian dollhouse fantasy special episode. The costumes were wonderful for the most part and the entire cast was used. This episode will be used by the Costume Designers and Hair & Make-up come Emmy time. With all the gloom and doom on soaps these days, it was nice to celebrate the “magic” of Christmas.


4. ONE LIFE TO LIVE – August 17, 2007. “One Life To Live” celebrated their 10,000th episode with Asa’s funeral. They brought back many fan favorites including James DePaiva (Max Holden), Tonja Walker (Alex “I used to be your grandmother” Olanov), Nathan Fillion (Joey Buchanan), John Loprieno (Cord Roberts) and Dan Gauthier (Kevin Buchanan). The episode included wonderful flashbacks and made fans remember why they loved the Buchanans.

3. DAYS OF OUR LIVES – October 18, 2007. John Black's funeral provided some excellent entertainment. During the October 18th family and friends gather to pay their respects and flashbacks are used effectively to show the impact John made on their lives. At the end Stefano walks into the church as Marlena is speaking (which lead to the also excellent October 19th show).


2. GENERAL HOSPITAL – February 16, 2007. “General Hospital” hit a home run with the Metro Court hostage crisis. It was difficult to chose which episode for this list (February 19th was a possibility), but I chose the February 16th show which featured the show ending explosion, some top notch performances and production values which were a cut above the other soaps during February sweeps.

1. GUIDING LIGHT – January 25, 2007. “Guiding Light” celebrated their 70th anniversary with this standout episode that took fans back to the radio days and gave great insight into the mind of Irna Phillips. Beth Ehlers did an outstanding job as Irna. The episode is likely to be submitted by GL as they look to capture their second Daytime Emmy in a row for Outstanding Drama Series.

Top 10 at the Box Office - Soap Stars Making an Impact

1. National Treasure: Book of Secrets: wkd $35,632,000, (cume $124,035,000) - Featuring Alicia Coppola (ex-Lorna, "Another World"), Albert Hall (Judge Billington, "The Young and the Restless"), Alicia Leigh Willis (ex-Alli, "Another World" and ex-Courtney, "General Hospital") and Christian Camargo (ex-Mark, "Guiding Light")

2. Alvin and the Chipmunks: wkd $30,000,000, (cume $142,375,000) - Featuring Jesse McCartney (ex-J.R., "All My Children"), Kevin Symons (ex-Edward, "The Bold and the Beautiful") and Beth Riesgraf (ex-Loretta, "Undressed")

3. I Am Legend: wkd $27,500,000, (cume $194,575,000) - Featuring Steve Cirbus (who played a Robber on "One Life to Live")

4. Charlie Wilson's War: wkd $11,768,000, (cume $34,506,000) - Featuring Patrika Darbo (ex-Nancy, "Days of our Lives")

5. Juno: wkd $10,300,000, (cume $25,681,000) - Featuring Allison Janney (ex-Ginger, "Guiding Light") and Daniel Clark (Sean, "Degrassi: The Next Generation")

6. Alien Vs. Predator - Requiem: wkd $10,050,000, (cume $26,880,000) - Featuring Reiko Aylesworth (ex-Rebecca, "One Life to Live")

7. The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep: wkd $9,200,000, (cume $16,821,000) - Featuring Ben Chaplin (Gareth, "Casualty"), Craig Hall (ex-Leo, "Shortland Street")

8. P.S. I Love You: wkd $9,100,000, (cume $23,398,000) - Featuring Kathy Bates (ex-Belle, "All My Children")

9. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street: wkd $8,000,000, (cume $26,719,000) - Featuring Jody Halse (ex-Mike, "EastEnders")

10. Enchanted: wkd $6,500,000, (cume $110,650,000) - Featuring Susan Sarandon (ex-Patrice, "A World Apart") and Tonya Pinkins (ex-Livia, "All My Children" and ex-Heather, "As The World Turns")

This Week's Plotlines

ALL MY CHILDREN: Zach takes action to protect Kendall and Greenlee. Richie is ready to put his plan against Annie into motion.

AS THE WORLD TURNS: Barbara receives bad news about her health. Lily makes excuses for Dusty to Holden. Holden asks Bonnie on a date.

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Brooke urges Stephanie to do the right thing. Eric delivers something to Stephanie.

CORONATION STREET: Tracy learns her fate. Liam learns he's been fleeced by Leanne. Janice goads Vicki. Jerry worries about Kayleigh being at her mother's.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Lucas is arrested for shooting E.J. Belle comes clean to Shawn and begs for forgiveness. Chloe tells Philip the real story about Brady. Stefano makes arrangements to take care of Lucas.

GENERAL HOSPITAL: Carly suspects Jerry is up to his old tricks. Luke faces his judgement day while he waits in purgatory. Johnny won't let Trevor call the shots any longer.

GUIDING LIGHT: Lizzie warns Ava that Bill isn't worth the time. Buzz knocks on Harley's door at a most inappropriate time.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE: Cristian wants to take a chance with Sarah. Talia has an unexpected reaction to Antonio's kiss. Clint and Nora ring in the New Year together.

PASSIONS: Ethan and Theresa try to have a romantic New Year's Eve. Kay admits to Miguel that she is a witch. Rebecca and Pilar come to blows. Esme sets out to seduce Alistair.

SCRIPTS & SCRUPLES: Carter makes Alexandra an offer. Raven gives Hannah an idea which does not go over well with Dylan.

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Paul warns J.T. about Victor. As Jeff plans his proposal, Gloria scrambles to find a way out. New evidence comes to light in Ji Min's death. Brad tries to enlist an unlikely ally's help to break up Sharon and Jack.

News Brief

News & Observer: Hated it! Loved it! Overhyped: "All My Children's" transgender storyline. Underrated: The Noah/Luke romance storyline on "As the World Turns."

New York Daily News: "The Bold and the Beautiful": Crossover sister act. Eileen Davidson crosses her character, Ashley Abbott, back from "The Bold and the Beautiful" to "The Young and the Restless" this week to give Jack a piece of her mind.

Boston Herald: “Guiding Light’s” Ron Raines performed at Symphony Hall with Keith Lockhart & Co. for the Boston Pops’ “Gershwin & Friends” concert.

Tulsa World: Poor Casey Hughes. In a town where you can get away with switching babies or shooting your boyfriend, it isn’t fair that Casey, of all the characters on “As the World Turns,” had to do jail time. Casey is coming home in January – but this time he’ll be played by Billy Magnussen, who recently appeared on Broadway in “The Ritz.” Magnussen debuts Jan. 29. Let’s hope Casey isn’t too jaded from prison life.

AfterEllen.com: Bianca/Eden Riegel only back for 2ish days!?!

The Celebrity Cafe: Michele Childress writes about meeting Joseph Mascolo from "Days of our Lives."

Deseret News,: Starwood Hotel guests are using reward points to party with the stars. It takes 73,500 points to attend a taping of "The Young and the Restless."

Tulsa World: The events at the Black and White Ball at Windermere played out like Agatha Christie meets “Clue.” Carly – whose portrayer, Laura Wright, has been on “General Hospital” since 2005 – was one who was tossed about, and nearly killed. While filming was hard and arduous, it still had its moments of fun.

Sunday People: Millions will tune into "Coronation Street" tomorrow to see if rocker Vernon Tomlin weds Liz McDonald in a cowboy-themed ceremony. But with her jailbird ex-husband Jim out to stop the marriage at all costs, it'll be anything but straightforward.

People: Sean Penn and wife Robin Wright Penn (the original Kelly Capwell on "Santa Barbara") are divorcing, their rep, Mara Buxbaum, confirms. No other details were immediately available. The couple, who've been married 11 years, have two children together, Hopper Jack, 14, and Dylan Frances, 16.

In The Zone: AUDIO: Interview with long-time "General Hospital" star Tristan Rogers.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Cassandra Creech (ex-Denise, ATWT/ex-Dana, AW)
Troy Kurtis (ex-Nico, GL) - 27
Ashley Bashioum (ex-Mackenzie, Y&R) - 24

SON Insider: Episode 3, The X-Mas Edition

News Brief

Jamaica Gleaner: Rebecca Herbst celebrates 10 years at General Hospital. "I think the last person Elizabeth needs in her life right now is another man."

Miami Herald: The Palm Beach set were headed to South Beach to celebrate new parents Donald Trump Jr. and wife Vanessa Trump's joint 30th-birthday party presented by Angel Music Group at Mansion in Miami on Friday night. All My Children star Cameron Mathison was in attendance.

Ontario Argus Observer: Helen Binder, the mother-in-law to the late actor John Beradino who played Dr. Hardy on General Hospital, found an interesting way to celebrate Christmas. Binder, 91, Ontario, combined her strong Catholic faith and one of the most powerful symbols in Christianity into a striking display on her front lawn.

Press Association: Soap stars backing hygiene campaign. Ten actors from the likes of Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Neighbours and River City encouraged Scots to "reach for the soap" to help reduce the spread of germs.

Guardian Unlimited: If the EastEnders Christmas Day episode is evidence of the BBC taking what it "views as a key chance to reiterate its public service credentials," with its aggressive family conflict and misery, then give me Rupert Murdoch with his bought-in programming and his football any time. It was harrowing stuff and I would have thought the BBC would offer something with a little more peace and goodwill, or at the least, somewhat less indigestible.

Soap Opera Digest: The Bold and the Beautiful's New Year's Resolutions.

Marlena De Lacroix: Marlena to Thinking Fans: You Get the Last Word in 2007!

Project Holiday Spirit Update

As previously reported, fans of Van Hansis and Jake Silbermann (Luke and Noah on "As The World Turns") kicked off Project Holiday Spirit on December 1st.

Fans took a two-pronged approach to show their faves the true meaning of the holiday season. First, donations were collected for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. As of today, fans have donated $6,300 for the charity.

Fans also mailed holiday cards for the actors and more than 170 were received. Cards were sent in from all over the world including Japan, Brazil, Mexico, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Canada and the United States.

Hansis had blogged in late November about Christmas:
So what else....uh....it is the holiday season. Again. I like Thanksgiving. I'm not too huge on Christmas. It seems like in America our holidays have simply turned into ways to spend more money. It also seems the Christmas season is almost like forced emotion. It is like the (commercial) world is telling you: you must be happy! You must buy presents for everyone! Not to be a grinch or anything, and maybe this is just me trying to be subversive, but I don't like being told that I should be cheerful and get in 'the holiday spirit'. I think Thanksgiving has much more spirit, because it isn't about buying things for the people you love, it's about spending time with them. There is much less of a material push to it. It's about cooking a meal and eating that meal with the people you would most like to cook and eat a meal with. I think that is pretty beautiful. I loved Christmas as a kid, but now, for whatever reason, and I really have no idea why, it makes me feel kind of blue. I am going to try harder this year though. I guess under the material stuff, the season is about connection with loved ones, I'm going to focus on that this year. It has been a really wonderful year for me, so at least I should celebrate that.

In their January 1st issue, Soap Opera Digest named Project Holiday Spirit the "Fan Campaign of the Week").

Out on the Town - December 28, 2007

Lindsay Lohan (ex-Ali, "Another World") and Hayden Panettiere (ex-Lizzie, "Guiding Light") attended the award ceremony on the second day of the 12th Annual Capri Hollywood International Film Festival at the "Certosa di San Giacomo" in Capri, Italy.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

David Fumero (Cristian, OLTL) - 35
Jason-Shane Scott (ex-Will, OLTL) - 31

The Real Greenlee Returns to AMC

The daytime honchos have pulled some really tacky moves this year, but this whole "Real Greenlee" business from ABC takes the cake. Actors are fired all the time, and old actors return to their former roles on soaps (see Jeffrey Meek's abrupt firing from ATWT earlier this year). But to start this ad campaign to promote Rebecca Budig's return while Sabine Singh is still airing is just low down. ABC is starting to look like Anything But Class these days.

Days Ashley Benson in Bring It On: In It To Win It

Farewell to Harmony-The Bon Voyage Fan Cruise

Join Eric Martsolf and several of his "Passions" co-stars for the "Farewell to Harmony-The Bon Voyage Fan Cruise" for five-nights from San Diego, California.

This vacation will transport you to the sun and sand of Baja California, Mexico for private events and activities planned just for guests of this exclusive departure. Don't be left behind. Reserve your stateroom today!

Evening News

TV Guide: "All My Children's" Big Returns Get Big Play on SOAPnet. For starters, AMC: Back in Pine Valley: Greenlee, Angie and Jesse — a half-hour (and colon-heavy) special featuring fresh interviews, classic clips and a behind-the-scenes look at the first days back on set for Rebecca Budig, Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams — debuts Saturday, January 12, at 2 pm/ET. That leads into Why We Love Greenlee!, a petite marathon of three Budig-centric AMC episodes. (Sabine, I am guessing/hoping, will use that opportunity to go catch a movie.) On Sunday the 13th, starting at 2 pm, AMC: Angie & Jesse are Back! offers a trio of classic Hubbard hours, followed by an encore of the Back in Pine Valley special.

TV Squad: Extremely blatant product placement on "Days of our Lives."

Just Jared: Former "The Young and the Restless" and current "Gossip Girl" hunk Penn Badgley flexes what his momma gave him in a recent hot photoshoot.

Soap Opera Digest: "Passions" New Year's Resolutions.

NBC: "Coastal Dreams" Full-Length Feature! The 24 episode runs ends with a cliffhanger.

News Brief

New York Daily News: SPOILER: Archrivals Alexis and Diane are nominated for the "Litigator of the Year" award next week on "General Hospital," leading to a raucous trip to Philadelphia - and a side trip to a biker bar. "This award is obviously something that Alexis has fantasized about her whole life, career-wise," says Nancy Grahn, who plays the legal eagle. "She gets on the plane and naturally, in soap land, she's sitting right next to Diane." The two start arguing over their respective clients, Kate and Sonny.

Miami Herald: Josh Duhon wasn't feeling confident when he went to read for the role of Logan Hayes on "General Hospital." "I'd auditioned for every soap on television before that at least twice, and I'd never even gotten a callback for General Hospital," says Duhon, whose success rate had been a big fat zero, except for a short stint on "Passions." It turned out that the third time was the charm for Duhon and General Hospital. The show's brass not only called Duhon back but they promptly signed him to a contract to portray young rebel Logan. Duhon attributes it to really connecting with the part.

Jackson Clarion Ledger: Mississippi Families for Kids has postponed a benefit luncheon scheduled for Jan. 11 because of soft ticket sales. Linda West, the group's executive director, said response may not have been as great as anticipated because guest speaker Victoria Rowell has made appearances at events in Mississippi and Louisiana in recent months.

FOX News: American TV Icon: Rick Springfield. "I was pretty burned out in '85 and was getting — starting to get into some issues. I'd lost my dad earlier and hadn't really dealt with it, and suddenly I became a father. And I had to — it was the right time for me to stop and start to look at things."

HeatherTom.net: Heather Tom has signed a three year contract to remain on "The Bold and the Beautiful" as Katie Logan.

LifeNews.: In January 2006, former "General Hospital" star Kari Wuhrer sued ABC and ABC Productions alleging the media outlet killed off her character and dismissed her from the program because she got pregnant. Wehrer sued for $3 million in damages including damages to her career and earnings as well as emotional distress. According to a New York Times article, Wuhrer also alleges that ABC soap opera producers have an anti-pregnancy bias in general and encourage actresses to have abortions rather than have their babies. "Even one whiff that an actress on an ABC daytime soap has conceived a child is enough to have her character killed off the show," the complaint says.

Deadbolt: Mischa Barton (a former young Lily on "All My Children) was arrested for drunk driving and marijuana possession.

The Phoenix: Boston’s first rally supporting the Writers Guild of America strike was held on December 14th. Larry Ramin, ex-writer for "All My Children" and "As the World Turns" was in attendance.

New York ABC Holiday Parties

Cast and Crew of "One Life to Live" and "All My Children" celebrated the holidays in style before Christmas.

Current and former OLTL cast members Loyita Chapel, Robert Woods and Kassie & James DePaiva partied at Capitale on the 19th.

Meanwhile, Sydney Penny and son Chasen Powers celebrated at the AMC party at Arena on the 20th. Recently fired actress Sabine Singh was in attendance along with rehired faves Darnell Williams and Debbi Morgan.

Y&R's Kate Linder Out on the Town

"The Young and the Restless" star Kate Linder has been a busy lady this month.

On December 24th, she was one of the celebrities who served Christmas Dinner to the homeless at The Los Angeles Mission.

On December 13th, she attended the "Remember to Give" Holiday Party held at Les Deux in Hollywood.

On December 6th, she attended Venice Magazine's After Party for "Girls Night The Musical" in Los Angeles with fellow soap actress Patricia Barry ("Guiding Light", "All My Children", "As The World Turns" and "Days of our Lives").

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Terri Garber (Iris, ATWT/ex-Allison, Texas/ex-Victoria, GH) - 47
Bree Williamson (Jessica, OLTL) - 26

News Brief

TV Guide: Best and Worst of 2007 - Additional commentary not included in the magazine edition. Best Soap: "One Life to Live"

Marlena De LaCroix: Marlena’s “Only the Bests” List 2007. Best #1 — Robin Strasser gets Dorian’s brain back and Erika Slezak gets the spotlight and Viki’s love life back on "One Life to Live."

Soap Opera Weekly: "As The World Turns'" Austin Peck: The Naked Truth.

Orlando Sentinel: Citrus Parade has ABC accent with Helio Castroneves and "General Hospital" star Kirsten Storms taking part Saturday.

Deadbolt: Former "All My Children" hunk Josh Duhamel is engaged to Fergie.

Southtown Star: Colin Egglesfield, of Crete, started acting classes at age 12 and made his professional debut at 15 years old in ITC's production of "Amazing Grace." He is now a regular on TV's "All My Children" in the role of Josh.

SoapHunks.net: Best of 2007 Awards winners announced. Hunkiest Soap: "Days of our Lives"

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Barbara Crampton (ex-Leanna, Y&R/ex-Mindy, GL) - 49
Eva LaRue (ex-Maria, AMC/ex-Margot, Santa Barbara) - 41

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Colleen Dion (ex-Felicia, B&B/ex-Leslie, AMC/ex-Brett, AW/ex-Ramona, GL/ex-Evie, SFT/ex-Cecilia, Loving/ex-Dahlia, ATWT) - 43

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Gary Sandy (ex-Hank, ATWT/ex-Randy, Somerset/ex-Michael, AW) - 62

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Sharon Farrell (ex-Flo, Y&R/ex-Cherry, Rituals) - 67
Eva Tamargo (Pilar, Passions) - 47

Happy Holidays

Posting will be lighter the next few days but wanted to say happy holidays to everyone! Regular posting will return on the 28th.

And check back on the 31st for the Top 10 Soap Episodes of the Year.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Susan Lucci (Erica, AMC) - 61
John Callahan (ex-Edmund, AMC/ex-Craig, Santa Barbara) - 54
Martha Byrne (Lily/ex-Rose, ATWT) - 38
Robert Benvenisti (ex-Kevin, Days) - 34

News Brief

Jamaica Gleaner: "As the World Turns'" Casey Hughes paroled just in time for the New Year.

Digital Spy: Darren Gough has tipped Alesha Dixon to win "Strictly Come Dancing." The ex-England cricketer, who triumphed in the competition two years ago, described the singer as "just unbelievable". Dixon and partner Matt Cutler face "EastEnders" star Matt Di Angelo and Flavia Cacace in the live final.

Soap Opera Digest: VIDEO: Brandon Buddy Gets An Early Christmas Present.

Jamaica Gleaner: "One Life to Live" Llanview comes to Paris, Texas.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Elizabeth Hubbard (Lucinda, ATWT) - 74
Lauralee Bell (Christine, Y&R) - 39
Lynne Thigpen (ex-Grace, AMC) - Born on this day in 1948 (Died March 12, 2003)

News Brief

AfterElton: AfterElton contacted the "As the World Turns" publicist about Thursday's cutaway of the Luke and Noah kisss and received the following response: As The World Turns fully supports the Luke and Noah storyline. We have exciting story planned for the couple that will begin airing early next year. As soap opera fans know, there is an ebb and flow to storylines. While Luke and Noah may currently be in a lull, they won’t be for long.

Support Sabine: Fans have created a website to show support for recently fired "All My Children" actress Sabine Singh.

Project Holiday Spirit: Noah and Luke fans have raised more than $5,000 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS to date.

New York Daily News: SPOIOLER ALERT: Soap operas bring some holiday cheer.

Exclusive Interview with Bill Hodgkins of S&S

Originally published December 21, 2004.

Bill Hodgkins from Portland, Maine, has turned cad Andrew Jones into one of the funniest characters in soaps. We Love Soaps sat down with him to discuss his role on SCRIPTS & SCRUPLES and Andrew's various storylines.

We Love Soaps: How are you enjoying the beginning of winter in Maine so far?
Bill Hodgkins: It's always a bit of a shock when the temps fall at first. I would be happy if it could snow and still be in the 80s. Granted I only want it to snow for Christmas. By mid January I get sick of winter!!

WLS: What has been your favorite Andrew Jones scene since S&S premiered in August of 2003?
BH: Gee, I have to go with a tie. The first one was when Andrew went to see Larrisa in jail after the trial. The other one was when "Adam" took the drinks over to Lucas and Alexandra. If there were emmy reels those are the ones I'd pick for my best work. Dione and Barb are such great people to work with.

WLS: How is Bill different from Andrew?
BH: Let me count the ways! All of them except the voice! I am far from being a money hungry woman chaser!! I'm a money hungy man chaser!! LOL! Honestly I am nothing at all like Andrew, which I think is one reason I like this character so much.

WLS: Did you enjoy playing "Adam" versus Andrew?
BH: I tackled "Adam" as a totally different character and is was a nice switch. But, I really like the old Andrew, which I hope returns when he gets his memory completely back. It's so much fun to try and get out of things.

WLS: Are there any characters on the show you would like to see Andrew interact with more?
BH: I think that Andrew should have more friends outside Alex. Yet, I think that all the other character's might be a bit jaded against any one with the name Jones! Maybe Blake could become Andrew's drinking buddy. I am looking forward to when "Adam" and Hannah meet up. Working with Jamie during the Hannah/Andrew/Larissa thing was a blast!

WLS: Who are your favorite actors?
BH: There are so many. Kevin Spacey, Julianne Moore, and Laura Linney always put out great perfomances. Within S&S, Gregori, Rich, and Jaime (Charlie, Blake, and Hannah) do great work!

WLS: If Scripts & Scruples became a movie, who would you like to see playing Andrew Jones?
BH: Colin Farrell!

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Larry Bryggman (ex-John, ATWT) - 69

News Brief

Deseret News: It's only 90 seconds of national recognition, not the 15 minutes of fame that American artist Andy Warhol coined in 1968, but it's still enough to satisfy guitarist Quint Randle and lead vocalist Jeff Hinton of the local band Joshua Creek — at least for now. Friday morning, a minute and a half of the one of the band's Christmas songs will be featured on the highest-rated daytime drama, "The Young and the Restless."

TravelVideo.tv: Daytime soap opera fans will appreciate a special appearance by Orlando native Kristen Storms, who plays "Maxie Jones" on General Hospital, at the Spherion Orlando Citrus Parade presented by Delta Air Lines.

Belfast Telegraph: It was supposed to be a fitting end to a great year for the superstars at Manchester United Football Club. But a party that started for the players with an extravagant meal and an afternoon of gambling at a casino, and which reached its climax in one of Manchester's plushest hotels surrounded by scores of beautiful women, came to a bitter end with allegations of rape and the arrest of one of the club's most promising youngsters. In attendance were a number of former stars of the television soap "Hollyoaks."

DotMusic: Kylie Minogue plans to use her appearance on sci-fi series "Doctor Who" to re-launch her acting career. The Spinning Around hitmaker - who shot to fame in Australian soap opera "Neighbours" in the 1990s, is hoping her cameo appearance in the hit TV show will pave way for more acting offers.

Portsmouth Herald News: Combine a native New Yorker with a biology, real estate, acting, and production business background and you get Mark Avena, a Portsmouth resident with a closet business that grossed over $2.2 million in sales in 2007. Avena's business is called Coast Closets. Avena's acting credits include "Spin City" and "Guiding Light," and currently he is a day player on "As the World Turns" as Detective Vitale, a part he plays a few times a year after a big, juicy crime has taken place.

Soap Opera Digest: Reflecting on her long, luminous resumé prior to landing "General Hospital," Megan Ward dishes on what it was like to work with some of Hollywood's top leading men.

Advocate: Beloved for series such as "Homefront" and "Early Edition," Kyle Chandler scores a touchdown as Coach Eric Taylor on NBC’s critically acclaimed Texas-set high school football drama "Friday Night Lights," now in its second season. "I’m 42 now, and I find myself slowing down a little bit. Doing the show and flying back and forth from Austin to Los Angeles takes it out of you. And I’ve got a wife and a couple kids, so I have to deal out all my attention and time there. When the show shuts down, that’s when you get to reinvent yourself, recuperate, get back in shape, and get ready to do it all over again."

As The World Turns Preview for Thursday

Out on the Town - December 19, 2007

Former "General Hospital" and "Another World" star Janine Turner arrives at "The Great Debaters" Premiere at the Ziegfeld Theater in New York City.

Turned played Laura Templeton on the soap in the early 80s, made a guest appearance on "Santa Barbara" and played Patricia Kirkland on "Another World" before landing the role of Maggie O'Connell on "Nothern Exposure."

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Kathryn Joosten (Karen, DH/ex-Ida, GH) - 68

Evening News

Blackanthem: "Days" and "Coastal Dreams" stars participate in Operation Gratitude. Ten days before his regularly scheduled journey, Santa J. Claus surprised more than 1000 Operation Gratitude volunteers on December 15, when he arrived at the California National Guard Armory in a sleek new 2008 Jeep Liberty, led onto the drill floor by eight Emergen-C Reindeer. Santa proudly held the 300,000th Operation Gratitude Care Package as Quinn placed the keys to the Liberty inside the box. Operation Gratitude Volunteers were honored to work side by side with Major General William Wade, the Adjutant General of California, who enthusiastically filled and labeled packages on the Assembly Line. Also joining the 1000-strong crowd were cast members from NBC-Universal's shows DAYS OF OUR LIVES and COASTAL DREAMS: Jay Kenneth Johnson, Kristian Alfonso (shown here with NBC-UNI employee and Operation Gratitude Supervisor Tommy Reuter), Kam Heskin and Charlie Koznick.

CBS: VIDEO: Jack Wagner from "The Bold and the Beautiful" answers questions from fans.

Soap Opera Digest: "Passion's" Most Shocking Secrets! A Look Back At Those Memorable Revelations That Rocked Harmony

TV Shows on DVD: With the third season package out for just a bit over a month now, CBS/Paramount and Spelling Entertainment have announced this morning that "Melrose Place - The Complete 4th Season" will be released on April 15, 2008. No other info is available yet, but don't forget that this is the season which opens with a bang, as half the apartment complex goes up in a massive explosion set by one of the characters in the previous season's cliffhanger! There are 32 episodes, including two double-length episodes. One of those is the season finale, where we see the last of Daphne Zuniga as "Jo". Kristin Davis ("Sex and the City") also exits the cast this season, in events which unfold during the other long episode. Marcia Cross (Desperate Housewives) went from a recurring character to a regular cast member at the start of this season. Look for recurring roles from Perry King ("Riptide") and Antonio Sabato Jr. ("The Bold and the Beautiful"), among other guest stars. Stay tuned and we'll update you as we learn more about this DVD release!

The Sun: "EastEnders" actor Rob Kazinsky has a problem most men would be jealous of – he keeps being offered threesomes by lustful female fans.

VIDEO: Daytime Writers On Strike

Jennifer Lenhart from Soap Opera Digest has published a really interesting video made during Monday's Daytime United rally which was mentioned by "Days of our Lives" writer Tom Casiello in a previous post. Writers and stars from all four New York soaps were on hand. Casiello is interviewed along with Kassie DePaiva, Michael Easton, Don Hastings and more.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO! (may take a moment to load)

After you watch the video, check out this interview with OLTL Head Writer Ron Carlivati, who was one of many writers there.

Guiding Light Preview

GL's Tom Pelphrey Loses His Father

RICHARD T. PELPHREY, 57, of Kinnelon, formerly of HOWELL, died Monday, Dec. 17, at home. Mr. Pelphrey was born in Chandler, N.C. and was raised in Riverdale and had lived in Oak Ridge and Howell before settling in Kinnelon in 1993. Mr. Pelphrey was a salesman in the North Jersey area his whole life. Mr. Pelphrey was a 1976 graduate of Georgetown College, Kentucky.

Surviving are two sons, Thomas Pelphrey of Hoboken, and Robert Pelphrey of Howell; his former wife, Laurie Pelphrey of Howell; a brother, Rev. Phillip Pelphrey of Franklinville; his dear friends, John Bydook, George Winne, and Joseph Hardenbrook; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Visiting hours will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral service at 9 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Restland Memorial Park, East Hanover. For those who desire, memorial contributions in memory of Richard may be made to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, P.O. Box 1947, Quantico, VA 22134. For directions, information or condolence messages to the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com.

News Brief

Fort Worth Star Telegram: Soap opera's heiress has but one life to live -- in East Texas. Victoria Lord Davidson of "One Life To Live" must be among the most resilient heroines in the history of television soap operas. This fall, the show's matriarch, a millionaire newspaper publisher, suddenly disappeared from her home in Llanview, a town in Pennsylvania. E-mails to her dysfunctional family suggested she was living in Paris, France. She's really been living in Paris, Texas, working as a waitress. "Oh, my, isn't that a hoot!' said Becky Semple, the Lamar County tourism director. "We've gotten lots of calls; so far it's been very positive. We think it's the neatest thing."

Broadway World: He may not have been visited by a roller-skating, Australian-accented muse from Mount Olympus, but André Ward definitely feels there has been some divine guidance in his career. In October, Ward costarred in a three-day story arc on the ABC soap One Life to Live. He played Clarence, a blond-wigged, sequin-gowned performer in a Georgia drag club who helps hide Marcie (Hairspray’s Kathy Brier) after she “steals” her adopted son from his criminal biological father. Part of Clarence’s decoy from the cops? Gussying up Marcie as a drag queen and putting her in his act lip-synching “One Night Only.”

All American Patriots: Three fan favorites return to ABC's "All My Children" in January when a mysterious illness reunites lovers and when Rebecca Budig returns as Greenlee Smythe Lavery, the role she created in 1999. Daytime Emmy Award winners Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams return as Angie and Jesse Hubbard, one of daytime television's most beloved super-couples. The announcement was made today by Brian Frons, president, Daytime, Disney-ABC Television Group.

Press-Enterprise: James Offord, Palm Springs' fun-loving restaurateur whose partner in life and business is "The Young and the Restless" actress Judith Chapman, calmed down his Icon Lounge "Star Wars" bar by remodeling it and his adjoining St. James at the Vineyard restaurant into the inviting Vineyard Tuscan Grill.

PGP Blog: Ron Raines will perform with the Boston Pops in a series of concerts beginning on Friday, December 28 and culminating in a New Year's Eve gala concert on Monday, December 31 at the Boston Symphony Hall located at 301 Massachusetts Ave, in Boston, MA.

Shreveport Times: Former "Guiding Light" star Taye Diggs goes caroling in hurricane-stricken community.

AfterElton: Support Nuke: Write-In Campaign. As some of you know, As the World Turns has introduced the first gay teen couple in daytime soap history. The pairing started out full of angst, drama, and passion, but lately the passion aspect has been sorely missing. Now granted, having one of the main characters in a wheelchair could dampen their ardor, but the fans haven't been treated to anything warmer than a handshake in months. Apparently, CBS' parent company, Procter and Gamble, is having reservations about the couple. So, even if soaps aren't your cuppa tea, you may still want to support positive gay images on TV. Add your voice by sending P&G a letter.

Soap Opera Digest: "Passion's" Most Shocking Secrets! A Look Back At Those Memorable Revelations That Rocked Harmony.

Out on the Town - December 18, 2007

Morgan Freeman, former "Another World" actor and founder of the Grenada Relief Fund, discussed the impact of severe storms and hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean, and Caribbean Sea and his organization's efforts assist residents in these regions in protecting their homes and businesses against storm disasters while at the National Press Club in Washington, DC.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Sam Kelly (ex-Bob, Coronation Street/ex-Graham, Doctors) - 64
Alice Barrett (ex-Frankie/Anne, Another World) - 51
A.J. Lamas (ex-Rafi, As The World Turns) - 24

Mike & Mike Guiding Light Video

As previously reported, ESPN Radio's morning hosts Mike Greenburg and Mike Golic of "Mike & Mike in the Morning" taped an appearance on "Guiding Light."

Here's a video of their scene.

Evening News

Access Hollywood: New 'Knight Rider' Star Justin Bruening Injured On Set! Bruening, who left "All My Children" earlier this year, experienced a knee injury Friday afternoon while filming a fight scene,” a NBC publicity rep said in the statement. “He was taken to the hospital and was treated and released. He’s in good spirits and is looking forward to returning to work soon.”

TV Guide Canada: Victoria Rowell Uncensored: Part Two. "I was told by a friend on-set [at Y&R] that I’d have to be voted back in! How’s that for an exclusive? I found it ghastly, to be honest. By the way, I loved Jack Smith’s writing! Smith’s show was clearly an extension of Bell’s show and legacy."

National Ledger: Nathaniel Marston Wants Another Shot on "One Life to Live."

The Futon Critic: A beautiful businesswoman gets more than she bargained for after hiring a handsome stranger as her groom in the Oxygen romantic comedy Husband For Hire, premiering Saturday, January 19 at 8 p.m. (all times ET/PT). The all-star cast is led by Mark Consuelos ("All My Children") and Nadine Velazquez, with television veterans Mario Lopez ("The Bold and the Beautiful"), Erik Estrada and Tempestt Bledsoe rounding out the cast.

Soap Opera Digest: Dylan Bruce's first daytime part was literally a rat, and his current gig — as the eighth actor to take on ATWT's troublesome role of Chris Hughes — already has him in the rocky position of possibly having caused the near death of Oakdale's beloved patriarch. "I've tested five or six times, so when I started auditioning and screen-testing for soaps, I would watch to see how the other actors performed, get a feel for the show, try to understand the character I was testing for, who they were involved with. I started watching a lot of soaps."

NBC: Episode 23 of "Coastal Dreams" titled "The Rescue" is now online. Only one more episode to go.

Behind The Scenes of Days of our Lives

TV Guide Network (formerly TV Guide Channel) will be airing a behind the scenes look at "Days of Our Lives" many, many times over the next several days. Included: interviews with cast members Deidre Hall, Kristian Alfonso, Martha Madison, Alison Sweeney and Brandon Beemer. Also: a set tour with Bryan Dattilo.

Upcoming airings:
Tue, Dec 18 3:00 PM
Wed, Dec 19 9:00 PM
Thu, Dec 20 2:00 PM
Sat, Dec 22 1:00 PM
Mon, Dec 24 10:00 PM

News Brief

Variety: In a surprising show of union solidarity, the DGA has agreed to share its inside info on new-media compensation with striking scribes. The Directors Guild of America and Writers Guild disclosed the development in a brief announcement Monday afternoon -- four days after the DGA ran out of patience with the lack of progress in the WGA's negotiations and said it would schedule its own talks in January if there's no writers' deal by the end of the year.

New York Post: It’s season 3 of the online audition-as-a-reality-show "InTurn" to win a 13-week contract on the CBS soap “As the World Turns.” Players live “Real World”-style in a Brooklyn loft beginning in March 2008. Our favorite part of the application: The warning not to sign the application until the contestant has read, understood and agreed to in its entirety. Unfortunately, the 65-page application was scanned in and starts getting cut off around Page 38. So, good luck with understanding that.

OK! Magazine: When OK! got the invite to spend the day delivering toys to hospitalized children for Toys for Tots with soap stud and recent "Dancing With the Stars" competitor Cameron Mathison, how could we pass up the opportunity? While he handed out the gifts, the "All My Children" star spoke openly to OK! about being a good father and husband and trying to fit it all into his hectic life.

Bloomberg: Daniel Sadek collected a fleet of cars that included a Lamborghini, a McLaren, a Ferrari Enzo, a Saleen S7 and a Porsche, frequented casinos and was engaged to soap opera actress Nadia Bjorlin. "Daniel was charismatic, crazy, unconventional and passionate about his company and his borrowers," says Lisa Iannini, a former employee. Sadek would try to help Bjorlin break out of TV's "Days Of Our Lives," co-writing and spending $35 million to produce "Redline," a feature film about illicit car racing, starring Bjorlin as a daring leadfoot.

BostonNOW: At a time when much of TV is doing whatever they can to attract a younger audience, it's quite refreshing to see "One Life To Live" continually put Viki (WAY too many last names to list here) in the spotlight. Now in her early 60's, Erika Slezak brings passion, commitment, and a sexy sense of humor to the role that has won her a record 6 Emmys, including wins in each of the last three decades. Others may get more press but Slezak is the true royalty of daytime.

Daily Post: "Coronation Street" star Chris Gascoyne has agreed to draw the winners in a Christmas lottery for the St David’s hospice in Llandudno. The actor, who played Peter Barlow in the ITV1 soap is in Llandudno to perform as Captain Hook in Venue Cymru’s panto Peter Pan.

iPetitions: Petition In Support of As The World Turns' Luke and Noah.

Out on the Town - December 17, 2007

"As The World Turns" star Marnie Schulenburg attended the 2nd Annual NYC Entertainment Industry Holiday Bash at The Cutting Room in New York City.

Marcia Cross and Teri Hatcher of "Desperate Housewives" spent the day stuffing FEED bags, which they purchased as Holiday gifts for the DH cast and crew, which in turn will help provide food for African children for one year in Burbank.

Daytime Writers & Stars on the Picket Line

Here is a list of names from the daytime community that I can confirm who were on the picket lines yesterday in support of the daytime writers. Of course, many non-daytime writers and actors were also on hand.

New York: Grant Aleksander, Melissa Archer, Peter Brash, Kathy Brier, Lorraine Broderick, Ron Carlivati, Tom Casiello, Kassie DePaiva, Ellen Dolan, Marj Dusay, Michael Easton, Terri Garber, Don Hastings, David Kreizman, Mark LaMura, Forbes March, Peter Staub, Courtney Simon, Catherine Hickland, Julia Barr, Francesca James, Jennifer Lenhart, Robin Strasser, Hillary B. Smith, Bree Williamson, BethAnn Bonner, Trevor St. John, January LaVoy, Kamar de los Reyes, Melissa Salmons, Jerry verDorn, Michael Slade, David Smilow, Chris Van Etten, Jill Larson, Tina Sloane, Kim Zimmer.

Los Angeles: Bradley Bell, Susan Flannery, Eden Riegel, Stephen Nichols, Mary Beth Evans, Patrika Darbo, Galen Gering, Kim Heskin, Graham Shiels, Sebastian Roche, Leslie Charleson, Ian Buchanan, Jerry Birn, Ken Hanes, James Reynolds, Robert Pine, Jacklyn Zeman.

Today's Soap Star Birthday

Ray Liotta (ex-Joey, AW) - 53
Casper Van Dien (ex-Ty, OLTL) - 39

Daytime United! A Report from the Front Line of today’s Daytime picketing event!

Here's an update from Daytime Emmy winning writer (and strike captain) Tom Casiello about today's rally in New York City:

I am THRILLED to report that today's Daytime United! Picketing Event was a success beyond our wildest dreams. In New York, we had about 400 people show up: writers from ALL genres, students, press, fans... it was unbelievably supportive and moving. Cast members from ALL of the NYC shows were there, and even though I write for a West Coast show, it was wonderful to see all of my old friends from One Life to Live and As the World Turns there to show their support.

I manned the check-in desk, and got to talk to a lot of different people, who were unaware just how different an animal daytime is from the rest of the writers. The fact that soap operas do NOT shut down production, and continue to work with scabs and "fi-core members", was quite a shock to most of them. But with so many daytime writers in attendance, it was clear the majority believe in the guild's fight. The president spoke, as well as two of my favorite writers I've ever had the pleasure of working with: Courtney Simon and Melissa Salmons. They were empowering, energizing and so inspiring. Then the president of AFTRA spoke, and to receive the support of all of these actors almost moved me to tears.

I've been very vocal about how difficult this is as a daytime writer. Spending day in and day out with these characters, it is (as Melissa and Courtney so eloquently put it) an addiction for the writers as well as the fans. We miss these towns, these families, these stories, these actors. We crave returning to work, and personally, I've had more than one down day these last seven weeks, feeling completely in withdrawl from the good folks of Salem. But then I experience a day like today, and I realize what we're doing out on the picket line isn't just about us... it's about every future writer. Serials may change format, but they will never die. This is history in the making, folks. And it's moments like these I'm proud to be a part of the daytime community.

By the time the picket was over, I was so moved that I ended up pouring my soul out to the lovely Jennifer Lenhart's (from SOD) video camera about my thoughts re: the strike. I've known Jen for years, and she's always done right by the shows I've worked for. She's so supportive, and I was happy to look into her lens and tell her how much I believe in this cause, how important it is, and how much I love the fans' support - both in person, and on the Internet Message Boards. You, the fans, are truly as much a part of this as we are.

I am a DAYS viewer going back to my childhood, and I'm proud to say I'm a "fan" as well as a "writer." I was honored - HONORED AND PRIVILEGED - this year to write Sami Brady a wedding, John Black a funeral, a Thanksgiving Phelle and Shelle fans will always remember (and a showdown between Marlena and Stefano I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into), and next week, I'll be waiting with bated breath to see how my Christmas episode turns out on the 26th. And now I'm standing up to the media conglomerates and fighting for what is right. It's been one hell of a year, and I will forever remember 2007. I love what I do, I love the people I do it with, and I love where I do it. I know sometimes we fail you, and sometimes we deliver the goods and surprise you in ways you never imagined... but please know that whether you're praising us or cursing us, we are all - writers, actors, producers and fans alike - SOOO dedicated to this genre and united in this: preserving the past, delivering in the present, and guaranteeing a future. And I thank you for hanging in there with us and being as supportive as you are during such a trying time.

(Jen said this all might show up on the SOD website, but I wanted to put it in words, in case it doesn't... oh yeah, and it's about 20 degrees here in NYC, so if you do see me on the website, and I'm shivering, red-faced and stuttering out my thoughts like a fool, it's only because I was frozen. )

Have a wonderful holiday, and a fantastic New Year's. Here's to getting back to work in 2008!!

Hollywood Reporter: In Monday's episode of As the Strike Turns, stars from "The Bold and the Beautiful," "The Young & the Restless," "General Hospital," "Days of Our Lives" and "Passions" (including Galen Gering) joined WGA members on the picket lines. Meanwhile, the producers main trade group railed against the economic impact of the writers strike action, which entered its seventh week.

The Film Panel Notetaker,: John Sayles Pickets in Support of Daytime Writers. Outside of the Time Warner Center in New York today, daytime serial actors & crew members (from "All My Children," "As the World Turns," "Guiding Light" and "One Life to Live") and fans, as well as independent filmmaker John Sayles picketed in support of the Writers Guild Strike.

Marlena De Lacroix: Apocalypse Now: "General Hospital’s" Murder of Georgie.

CBS: PREVIEW: For ATWT's special holiday episode, a dollhouse comes to life with your favorite ATWT characters. CBS offers a preview video, slide show of costumres and a slide show of the dollhouse

CBS: For over 60 years brides have flocked to Manhattan's famous Kleinfeld to find the perfect bridal gown. And recently "Guiding Light" star Crystal Chappell (Olivia) paid her first ever visit to the store for an upcoming CBS Watch! magazine photo shoot. "It's a beautiful place," she said.

All My Children Promo For This Week

Authorities: Actor Committed Suicide In His SoCal Home

An actor who had small roles in more than a dozen television shows was found dead at his home after committing suicide, authorities said Monday.

The body of John Berg, 58, was found Sunday in Van Nuys.

An autopsy found he had toxic levels of carbon monoxide in his system and the cause of death was suicide, said Lt. Fred Corral, a coroner's spokesman.

Berg was a guest star on such crime dramas as "Law & Order," "The Practice" and "NCIS."

He also made appearances in such soap operas as "General Hospital," "Passions," "The Bold and the Beautiful" and "The Young and the Restless."

"Life was treating him well," said Liz Hanley, Berg's agent.

Along with acting, Berg maintained a political blog in which he wrote that he was "passionate about acting, and even more passionate about leaving the country and the world better" than he found it.

Out on the Town - December 16, 2007

Beverly Todd and Morgan Freeman attended "The Bucket List" premiere at the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood.

Golden Globe and Oscar award-winning Freeman starred on "Another World" in the early 80s as Roy Bingham.

Todd starred on "Love of Life" in the late 60s as Monica Nelson before her film career kicked in.

They star as Carter and Virginia Chambers in the film.

TV Guide Magazine's Best of 2007

Best Show: One Life to Live
Best Actor: Jon Hensley (Holden, ATWT)
Best Actress: Melody Thomas Scott (Nikki, Y&R)
Best Supporting Actor: Carolyn Hennesy (Diane, GH)
Best Supporting Actress: Graham Shiels (Cody, GH:NS)

Check out the write-ups on newsstands now.

United Hollywood Live

United Hollywood Live (12pm Pacific/3pm Eastern) will be live from the Directors Picket outside Fox as well as at the Daytime United picket from CBS Television City. In addition, writer, lawyer and media consultant Tom Smuts will talk about new business models and opportunities for writers on the Internet.

Tune in by CLICKING HERE (or by using the widget located along the right hand side of UnitedHollywood.com). The show, which airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday, is also available as a podcast immediately after each broadcast via the widget and on iTunes (search: United Hollywood).

Fans and WGA supporters are encouraged to become a part of the broadcast via live IM chats, video feeds and phone calls to the studio. They can also add the United Hollywood Live widget to their websites.

UPDATE (4:09 PM ET): I just tuned in and Kim Heskin from "Coastal Dreams" is being interviewed.

News Brief

BostonNOW: Alison Sweeney of "Days of our Lives" and "The Biggest Loser" talks about her new job, her residency in Salem, and a controversial Days storyline. On new Producer Ed Scott: "Oh my gosh, it's fantastic. We're so lucky. He's such an amazing producer. He has been around the block a time or two with Young and the Restless and he came in here with...I would say "guns blazing" but the truth is he came in with his orange sneakers blazing. He made such an impression on the set from the moment he got here with his enthusiasm and his work ethic and his strive for perfection, and that's what I admire so much because that's my mentality. I can't give up on anything in my life and if I came to work thinking, "oh fine, it's just another day", I'd rather do something else. He wants it to be right, he wants it to be good, he wants it to be perfect. He is someone you can look up to and someone you can work hard for."

AfterElton: Sneak peek at this Friday's As the World Turns!

CNET: Google's Knol experiment to rival Wikipedia?

MysteryNet: Legendary "The Edge of Night" writer speaks: Any soap opera fan will tell you that murder, theft, kidnapping, fraud, and crimes of every variety are part of the fabric of every daytime serial. But only one serial in history ever devoted itself to Mystery, Crime, and Suspense as its central theme. It was called "The Edge of Night," and from 1956 to 1984 it offered viewers a respite from Unfaithful Spouses, Unwanted Babies, Broken Hearts and all the other sentimental ingredients of the everyday daytime drama.

The Ledger: Reaching into the community for performers, Vincent Miller recruited groups from The Wright Step School of Dance and Jewett School of the Arts to participate in "A Holiday Journey." If all goes well, Brandon Buddy, a graduate of Lake Region High School and regular on the soap opera "One Life to Live," will be one of two narrators. Whether he is able to attend depends upon whether the Screen Writer's Guild continues its strike. If it does, he will be narrating the show.

Press Association: "Hollyoaks" star Chris goes commando. If you've ever wondered what gives Hollyoaks star Chris Fountain a thrill while he's working, well, a lack of undies has something to do with it. He recently confessed to Sky Showbiz he filmed an entire episode of the soap without knickers. The star, who plays Justin in the Chester-set serial, said: "I thought I would be daring and give fans a treat. "Actually no one noticed that I did it, which is worrying."

Liverpool Daily Post: Former "Hollyoaks" star Lesley Crawford, who played Laura Burns in the Channel 4 soap, who turned her back on showbusiness to become a midwife says she can’t find a job in the NHS crisis- hit maternity service.

AfterElton: The AfterElton.com 2007 Visibility Awards winners have been announced. Best Gay Couple: Luke Snyder and Noah Mayer, "As The World Turns".

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Clive Robertson (ex-Ben/Derek, Sunset Beach) - 42
Sonia Satra (ex-Barbara, OLTL/ex-Lucy, GL) - 36
Napiera Danielle Groves (ex-Bonnie, ATWT) - 32

Daytime United Update

Earlier today I posted a "Daytime United" notice: The writers of Daytime Dramas, Telenovelas, and Internet Serials are hosting a special picket event on Monday, December 17th, from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm at CBS Television City, on the Fairfax side. This will coincide with a similar event in Manhattan, organized by WGAE. With the enthusiastic support of AFTRA, the actors from our favorite Daytime Dramas -- plus directors, staff and crew -- will join the picket line in solidarity with the writers.

Here's an update:
In Los Angeles, AFTRA members including Susan Flannery ("The Bold and the Beautiful"), Jackie Zeman ("General Hospital") and others are expected to join a WGAW picket line at CBS Fairfax. And in New York, WGA East picketers at Time Warner Center expect to be joined by Scott Bryce ("As the World Turns"), Trevor St. John ("One Life to Live") and others.

Top 10 at the Box Office - Soap Stars Making an Impact

1. I Am Legend/Warner Bros $30.2M Fri, $29M Sat (est. cume $77.4M) - Featuring Steve Cirbus (who played a Robber on "One Life to Live")

2. Alvin And The Chipmunks/Fox $13.3M Fri, $19 Sat ($44.7M) - Featuring Jesse McCartney (ex-J.R., "All My Children"), Kevin Symons (ex-Edward, "The Bold and the Beautiful") and Beth Riesgraf (ex-Loretta, "Undressed")

3. The Golden Compass/New Line $2.6M Fri, $3.7 Sat ($40.5M) - Featuring Jim Carter (ex-Matthew, "Casualty"), Kathy Bates (ex-Belle, "All My Children") and Paul Antony-Barber (ex-Robert, "EastEnders")

4. Enchanted/Disney $1.6M Fri, $2.4M Sat ($91.7M) - Featuring Susan Sarandon (ex-Patrice, "A World Apart") and Tonya Pinkins (ex-Livia, "All My Children" and ex-Heather, "As The World Turns")

5. No Country For Old Men/Miramax $849K Fri, $1.1M Sat ($33.3M) - Featuring Tommy Lee Jones (ex-Mark, "One Life to Live")

6. This Christmas/Sony $749K Fri, $961K Sat ($46M) - Featuring Sharon Leal (ex-Dahlia, "Guiding Light")

7. Fred Claus/Warner Bros $701K Fri, $908K Sat ($68.7M) - Featuring Kathy Bates (ex-Belle, "All My Children")

8. The Perfect Holiday/Yari $693K Fri, $1M Sat ($2.8M) - Feauturing Lisa Datz (ex-Bev, "As The World Turns")

9. Atonement/Focus $527K Fri, $772K Sat ($2.9M) - Feauturing Julia West (ex-Vera, "EastEnders") and Harriet Walter (ex-Annie, "Doctors")

10. August Rush/Warner Bros $602K Fri, $723K Sat ($28M) - Featuring Ronald Guttman (ex-Alexander, "All My Children")

Source: Deadline Hollywood

News Brief

The Plain Dealer: Can the soap operas on ABC, NBC and CBS survive the Writers Guild strike? Some media pundits would have you believe that the soap opera bubble is about to burst. They say that a long writers strike could be the death of the daytime serial. But anyone hooked for any length of time on a soap opera can tell you it's not wise to trust pronouncements of doom and despair. Begun on radio during the Depression, the daytime serial has survived for more than 75 years. And many TV historians believe the soap is slippery enough to escape the current threat.

New York Daily News: "As the World Turns" treats viewers to a special episode on Friday, inspired by "The Nutcracker." "This Christmas show is a Victorian soap opera reflecting the characters' inner lives, dreams and perceptions," says Cady McClain, whose Rosanna character fi gures in the tale. "The sets, lighting, costumes, hair and makeup couldn't be more beautiful. It's a lot of fun." The premise is that Faith and Natalie go to see "The Nutcracker" with Lucinda and then see a doll-house in a window in Old Town. They make a wish that the magic was real - and then all the dolls in the window come to life.

Jamaica Gleaner: Radio and television host Todd Newton of E! Entertainment Television fame, hosted the 14th annual World Travel Awards (WTA) gala, attended by celebrities such as Canadian actress, Jennifer Finnigan ("The Bold and the Beautiful"); her husband, actor Jonathan Silverman; and Eva LaRue ("All My Children").

SunHerald: Mark your calendars: A "Bold and Beautiful" Fashion Extravaganza, Jan. 12, Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Biloxi. Star-studded fashion show, cocktails and hor d'oeuvres, and silent and live auctions featuring costumes and other Bold & Beautiful memorabilia. Tickets: $300, includes front row seats, complimentary champagne, private meet and greet with stars and silent auction preview, $150 second row, and $75 for general seating. Details: 868-8686.

Live 5 News: You may recognize her as Drucilla Winters from the Young and The Restless, but Victoria Rowell has put down her script and hit the campaign trail. "At this moment I can do more outside of the tube,” Rowell said. “As I've decided to slip off the cliff of the ‘Young and the Restless’ I wanted to offer what I have to this presidential campaign,” Rowell added. Rowell made a stop at the First Baptist Church in Summerville to talk to a local alumni Delta Sigma Theta chapter about Senator Clinton's bid for the White House.

TV Guide: Mrs. Bachelor Bob is back in the Fusion business. Rebecca Budig will reclaim the role of "All My Children's" Greenlee starting January 16. Also, Daytime Emmy winners Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams are returning as Angie and Jesse Hubbard on Jan. 18 and 25, respectively — this despite the fact that Jesse famously died in his wife's arms a bazillion years ago and has since made several ethereal visits as a ghost. "We are giving the fans what they’ve been asking for — Rebecca returns as Greenlee and a beloved super-couple have a second chance," says ABC Daytime boss Brian Scott Frons. "Fans can look forward to Greenlee’s storyline developing around her business, her friendships and her love life. Angie and Jesse made an eternal imprint on... viewers, and many fans will not believe he's alive." Seriously — his ghost even gave Pine Valley that "magic box" one Christmas! When Budig returns to the role she created, Greens is suddenly stricken down by a mysterious illness. That brings Angie back to Pine Valley Hospital to consult on Greenlee's case as well as that of a "secret patient." It all leads to what ABC calls "the most shocking reunion of all time: after 20 years, Angie will reunite with Jesse."

Luxist: "General Hospital" actor Sebastian Roche, who recently paid $1,525,000 for a house in Venice, California has sold his 117-acre estate in upstate New York for $2.7 million.

Wisconsin State Journal: This is why "Friday Night Lights " is such a joy to watch -- when Coach Taylor 's wife wakes up in the middle of the night to have a fight with her eldest daughter, she 's not wearing any makeup! Her face looks like, well, a face that 's been sleeping for a while. There 's no eyeliner or lipstick to prettify her midnight countenance, just a flawed, normal woman 's face. Refreshing.

Sunday People: They were plump frumps...now ex-"EastEnder" Natalie Cassidy and "Corrie's" Vicky Binns have transformed themselves into slinky stars after shedding an amazing five stones between them. Both have fitness DVDs out on Boxing Day to tell how they became visions of beauty.

B&B.com Catch William deVry on Wednesday, December 19th at 4pm PST/7PM EST on B&B's Official Message Board where he will be answering viewer questions.

Daytime United

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Ben Cross (ex-Barnabas, Dark Shadows) - 60
Florencia Lozano (ex-Tea, OLTL) - 38
Daniel Cosgrove (Bill, GL/ex-Scott, AMC) - 37
Paul Leyden (ex-Simon, ATWT) - 35
Jack Krizmanich (John, Passions) - 29
Scott Bailey (ex-Sandy, GL) - 29

Evening News

Digital Spy: "EastEnders" actor Aaron Sidwell has revealed that he feels privileged to be working on the soap. Sidwell made a dramatic debut as Steven Beale (previously played by Edward Savage) in September when the character was revealed as Ian's stalker. "I have been so lucky," Aaron told the Daily Star. "Not many people get the chance to work on such a huge show, and my entrance was pretty impressive. I still wake up and think: 'Oh my God, I'm in EastEnders.' It's brilliant."

Sacramento Bee: Ben Reyes, a Sacramento graphic designer, spent a recent Saturday night curled up in front of "Star In My Heart," a Korean soap opera dubbed in Spanish. "Star In My Heart" can be seen weekends on KBTV, Sacramento's all-ethnic TV station. "It's a good family drama, the way American soaps used to be," said Reyes, 45, who's of Mexican, Greek, Seminole, Jamaican and Arabic descent.

Press Association: Fans of now defunct soap "Brookside" will be delighted to learn one of the show's biggest stars is returning to the small screen. Dean Sullivan, who played Jimmy Corkhill, will star in a new comedy pilot called "Terry Across the Mersey," which hits our screens in the New Year.

National Ledger: "The View," "One Life to Live" and "General Hospital" will be pre-empted on Dec. 25. Additionally, "The View," "All My Children," "One Life to Live" and "General Hospital" will be pre-empted on Jan. 1.

Press Association: EastEnders bosses have revealed Albert Square will be demolished - but only to make it better. The move comes in the light of the shift toward filming the soap in ultra-sharp high definition. The current sets will be knocked down and rebuilt to improve the state of the sometimes shabby sets. Boss Diederick Santer said: "A lot of our set works fine on standard tape but the older ones won't look good on HD."

Soaptown USA: Interview with long-time "Days of our Lives" star James Reynolds (Abe).

NBC: Coastal Dreams Full-Length Feature! Start at the beginning and watch continuously through episode 22. Only two more episodes left.

Flashback: September 7, 1979 Genie Francis & More

Soap Opera Scene
Waterloo Courier
By John N. Goudas

It seems the honeymoon is over the for Baldwin newlyweds. Married barely a month, "General Hospital's" troublemaking teenager Laura Webber Baldwin has the hosts for her disco boss Luke Spencer.

Hubby Scotty Baldwin feels bewildered. What has gone wrong? The loving bride has turned to ice overnight. The Baldwin marriage is disintegrating. A temporary rift is at hand, one that could be permanent.

If 17-year old Genie Francis, who plays Laura, has a clue, she won't tell. Keep the fans guessing...the fans dig the juicy plotting if the mail is any indication. The bride's love affair is a key factor in "Hospital's" number one rating during the summer.

A "General Hospital" performer for two seasons, young Genie Francis continues to make waves as Laura Webber Baldwin, a kid unable to stay out of trouble. Last fall young Luara face a murder rap involving her 40-year old lover and her over-protecive mom., Leslie Webber (Denise Alexander). Teenaged trauma proved to be a strong contrast to grownup tribulations at the hospital, a plot device designed to attract a younger following.

Juvenile Genie performed like a seasoned pro as the unstable Laura, so after a decent respite producer Gloria Monty has the youngster front and center again.

A little over two years ago, Genie lander her first guest part on ABC's "Family," then signed with the hospital soaper as a regular. It became obvious the youngster had talent and Genie's classroom was the set. Quick to make the most of the break, Genie took her high school exam early, and has plans to attend college.

"I missed out on some of my childhood by performing on 'Hospital,'" Genie admitted recently. "But as my father (actor Ivor Francis) says, 'to accomplish a great dream, you have to give up a part of yourself.' Since I want to be an actress more than anything, I don't regret a minute of it."

Keep an eye on young Genie. She's headed straight up.

CHANNEL CHATTER:
Wendy Girard has turned a non-contract role into a featured part as nurse Connie Fuller on "As the World Turns." Wendy's background is mostly in the theater. Also on "As the World Turns" is nine-yearold Marisa Morell. She replaced Jenny Harris as Emmy Stewart Jenny by the way is the real life daughter of Marie Masters, who left the show to try her luck in California. Marisa, at nine, is a veteran of Broadway, She was one of the featured children in "I Remember Mama," and is currently flying high as "Jane" in the all new "Peter Pan" musical starring Sandy Duncan.

Rosemary De Camp, whom veteran TV fans will recall from "Life of Riley" (with Jackie Gleason) and "The Bob Cummings Show" (as Bob's sister) and "That Girl" (as Marlo Thomas' mother) among others has joined the cast of "Days of Our Lives" in the role of the mother superior of a convent...

PLOT PORTENTS:
When will Stephanie tell Bob Anderson she's his daughter on "Days of Our Lives?" It better be soon, as Linda is plotting to trap Stephanie and Bob in a compromising situation. It looks like Alex Marshall) has struck a chord with Maggie. Also, with encouragement from pregnant Marlena, Don finally decides to accept the mayor's offer.

If Lance dumps Lorie on "The Young and the Restless," will rejected Lorie turn to her brother-in-law, Lucas'' Lorie can be counted on to raise a ruckus. Meanwhile, Stuart
Brooks is unable to cut off his young wife Jill and can only commiserate with his
daughter Lorie. Also, the troubles of Julie and Cathy are far from over,

Alan and Hope are rescued on "Guiding Light," and Hope worries about Jackie getting wind of her intimacy with Alan. Jackie and Diane declare a truce while Alan gets a disturbing phone call.

Maeve is troubled by a conversation with Delia on "Ryan's Hope." Siobhan and Johnny clash and 'the unwieldy Rae seeks retribution.

Eddie and Mark discuss a common interest on "All My Children." Erica gets an ultimatum from an unlikely source and Phoebe Tyler takes Langley into her confidence.

Vicki is puzzled by a phone conversation with Joe on "One Life to Live." Meanwhile, Joe summons his lawyer. Brad questions Peter's motives and Karen makes a slip of the tongue.

An unexpected Logan is in for a surprise on "Edge of Night." And Brian gives Paige some startling news.

News Brief

Hollywood Reporter: The Writers Guild of America doesn't strike lightly, but when scribes took to the streets on Nov. 5, one of their primary concerns was over Internet residuals. Original production and distribution of current material looks, in the long run, to be a cash cow, and no one wants to be left out of the pasture. Still, that has left any number of questions open, including just how much writers are even currently affected by what's developing on the Internet. "Daytime (shows) will be the first to make the jump into full-on Internet," says Rick Draughon, who recently created his own Internet soap, "Coastal Dreams." "The viewership on daytime is declining more than other areas, and (companies) like NBC will want to find another outlet for them." Draughon, who spent six years writing for NBC's "Days of Our Lives," was hired by NBC.com to create "Coastal Dreams." "When I was approached by NBC.com, it was, 'We are thinking of doing this. It is going to be an experiment. Do you want to be part of it?' I said, 'Absolutely.' People watch soaps when they have time, and they like to watch them on the go, and that was NBC's idea: 'How can we test this market by creating a show that is three to five minutes now, and in the future, we might be able to do five to 15 minutes?'" Draughon was lucky to have an ample budget, by Internet-scale: He got "in the $300,000-$500,000 zone" for the series and shot 24 episodes in four days.

Deadline Hollywood: Golden Globes Screwed By Writers Strike?

Starpulse: Shawn Pyfrom Talks About "Desperate Housewives," The Writers' Strike, Playing Danny Bonaduce & More. "I think the Van de Camps are loosely based on producer Marc Cherry's family life, although I don't know if his real mother was a strict as Bree. I can't imagine that there are too many people in the world like that. It is always interesting to watch Andrew and Bree go at each other's throats. She believes something so different and he does everything to make sure to cause her stress."

TV Guide: Few soap queens stir up as much fan fuss as Kristina Wagner. But the beloved star's return to "General Hospital" on Dec. 20 won't be a happy holiday homecoming. Her character, Felicia, is back for the funeral of her teen daughter Georgie (Lindze Letherman), the latest victim of the Text Message Killer. "It's just so sad," Wagner says. "On my first day back, I cried through 13 scenes and left feeling pretty blue."

ABC: "All My Children" SPOILER: Starting January 18, Angie and Jesse's story continues. Angie comes home to Pine Valley to consult on a mysterious medical case. Her patient is someone AMC fans know very well. Along the way, we'll see an incredible reunion occur. But Jesse's dead... isn't he?

E! Online: Getting his butt kicked by Ralph Macchio was nothing compared to the thumping Sean Kanan got in court. Kanan, former "General Hospital" and "The Bold and the Beautiful" star, was sentenced Thursday to five years of probation and 18 months of alcohol-education classes after copping to a drunk-driving charge, according to the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office.

Liverpool Echo: A time for love and hate in "EastEnders'" Albert Square. A whopping 30 million fans tuned in on Christmas Day that year to watch a fiery finale to Den and Angie Watts’ marriage.

Buckingham Today: Times are tough for entertainer Bradley Walsh. One minute you're the star of "Coronation Street" and appearing in a star-studded Dickens over Christmas on ITV – and the next the only job you can get is as a lackey in a laundry.

TV Guide Canada: The Suds Report. Bryan Dattilo fired from ‘Days’? Three big ‘AMC’ comebacks! ‘Passions’ cancelled — again!

Out on the Town - December 14, 2007

Former "Hollyoakes" actress and "I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here" contestant Gemma Atkinson poses for photographs at the launch of the new Ultimo concession at Debenhams Department Store in Argyle Street, Glasgow.

As The World Turns Christmas Special Preview

ATWT will air a special standalone episode on Friday, December 21st.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Andre Khabbazi (ex-Alec, Y&R/ex-Oscar, Sunset Beach) - 32

Evening News

ABC: All My Children aficionados can look forward to a major treat in the new year. Save the date! Rebecca Budig returns to Pine Valley as Greenlee Smythe on January 16, 2008. (The lovely and talented Sabine Singh--who stepped into Greenlee's high heels last spring--will last air on January 15.) After two years away from AMC's set in New York City, Budig is excited and nervous about returning to her signature soap role. She is moving cross country, since she's been living in Los Angeles with her husband, Bob Guiney of The Bachelor fame. But Budig just couldn't resist the call of popular demand! In this emotional Q&A, the fabulous fan favorite talks to ABC.com about her big homecoming.

Playbill: Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers (SSDC), an independent labor union for stage directors and choreographers, has elected a new president and executive vice president. Karen Azenberg was named the new president of SSDC, while Larry Carpenter was named the organization's new executive vice president. Azenberg succeeds Pamela Berlin in the position, which was held by Berlin for six years. Carpenter received a Tony nomination for his direction of Starmites. He also received an Emmy Award for his direction of "As the World Turns" and a DGA Award for his work on "One Life to Live."

The Sun: EastEnders: the truth is out! Lauren is horrified to watch footage of her dad snogging Stacey! Angry after a bitter row with Max, she plots the ultimate act of revenge.

Soap Opera Digest: Top 10 Reasons We're Glad B&B's Stephanie Is Alive.

NBC: Play the "Days of our Lives" concentration game.

WeLoveSoaps Interview With S&S Star Matthew Preston

Actor and writer Matthew Preston is a jack of all trades. Preston hosts the monthly vlog "SON Insider" and co-hosts the online radio show "Buzzworthy." Preston has also been the writer of numerous web soap operas, short films, and commericals. For the past three years he has starred as Dirk Endicott (now deceased) and the fiery Dylan Endicott on radio soap "Scripts & Scruples." This summer, Dylan crossed over to "Eye of the Storm," a radio drama produced by J.R. Benight. WeLoveSoaps talked to Preston about his character, the crossover and his busy schedule.

WeLoveSoaps: For someone who hasn't listened to "Scripts & Scruples" or "Eye of the Storm" before, how would you describe the character of Dylan?
Matthew Preston: Dylan can be described in four words: mouth of the south. He's very passionate but can have an attitude problem if he's pushed over the edge...mostly from someone like his father.

WeLoveSoaps: You are the only character from S&S who has ever crossed over to a soap not produced by Loger, Inc. What was it like working on "Eye of the Storm," produced by J.R. Benight?
Preston: It was exciting and different. With S&S the lines have to be called in but on EOTS, the lines were recorded from my computer. S&S has a more daytime feel where as EOTS is definitely primetime. Both were fun and I'm loving how Dylan is getting tons of story plot. I was worried I was going to be forgotten on one of the shows but that didn't happen, if anything, I received an even jucier role.

WeLoveSoaps: What has been your favorite scene to play on S&S so far?
Preston: So many to choose from but recently fighting with Jackson over Hannah has been my favorite. The arguing and tension keeps building to what I'm sure will be a very exciting climax! I myself want to know why Dylan hates his own father so much.

WeLoveSoaps: Do you think Dylan and Jackson will ever mend fences and develop a better relationship?
Preston: I honestly hope not. I hope that this broken relationship goes on forever. Of course it would be nice to see them maybe have a tender moment or so but then go back to hating each other. Happiness seems to be the death for any soap opera character.

WeLoveSoaps: On a personal note, how do you find the time to juggle all the various things you have going on?
Preston: I honestly don't know. With a full time job, auditioning for movies, writing screenplays, recording radio shows...I honestly don't know. I wish I had a twin but one that's not evil.

Van Hansis Plays Noah

No, not on "As The World Turns," where his character, Luke, is involved in a romance with Noah Mayer. He's playing Noah in a new film, THE LADYKILLER, which will be appearing at film festivals in 2008.

Samantha Olson developed the THE LADYKILLER at NYU’s Dublin writing program and later directed it as her senior thesis film.

Here's a preview:
When Noah crashes his father’s poker game full of Vietnam vets, it is clear he is in way over his head. Desperately trying to impress and fraternize with his Dad and his buddies, Noah compares his nights at the clubs hunting for women to the war these men fought in Vietnam. Taking influence from all the best war movies, Noah’s story is riddled with action, adventure, brotherhood and romance, but in the end will Noah lose more than his money?

In addition to his gig at ATWT, Hansis is also starring as Lance Sussman in the Off-Broadway comedy "Die Mommie Die!" through January 13th.

Cady McClain Speaks Again - Oooof

"As The World Turns" Emmy winner Cady McClain has blogged again about her last day on ATWT and the AMC rumors of Dixie's return. Cady, keep blogging!

Last day at ATWT was a gloomy one. Grayson had his last day as well and he gave a lovely speech when they gave him a cake- really recognized what a lovely group of people work on the crew and in the cast. The production was also cutting half the floor crew, which was really sad, right before Christmas.

I did not get a chance to give a speech, nor was I given a cake, but I understand I was only on recurring, and only back for 6 months at that, so I am sure they figured I was a hired gun and hired guns don’t need cakes or speeches. It’s the way it goes.

I’m sorry about the AMC promo being a tease and subsequent dissapointment for some of you. I know nothing about it, nor have I been contacted to return as Dixie. Disney/ABC owns my work so they are free to use whatever they like from the past to promote what they feel is an important evolution in the story line.

Georgie Preview on General Hospital

Georgie is killed Monday on "General Hospital" (bad move). Scott Clifton returns as Dillon to mourn her on December 20th and 21st.

News Brief

Deadline Hollywood: WGA Files Federal 'Unfair Labor' Charges Against AMPTP Which Brands Them 'Baseless & Desperate'.

Press-Enterprise: Hunky Eric Martsolf of NBC's "Passions" is starring in "Jingle Bell Rock" at the California Theatre of the Performing Arts in San Bernardino and at the Ivar Theater in Hollywood through December 23rd. Hopefully, there won't be any flying tomatoes. "I've had some vegetables thrown at me in the grocery store," Martsolf said, laughing. "We are tearing down the walls of soap-opera borders. DirectTV is letting us get a little risqué. It's trendier and more contemporary. We've never been your normal mom-and-pop soap opera," he said. "We have a cult following with 'Passions,' millions of viewers."

New York Daily News: In a shocking move, Rebecca Budig will return to the role of "All My Children's" Greenlee on Jan. 16. "It all happened so fast," says Budig, who moved to L.A. with her husband, Bob Guiney ("The Bachelor"), after quitting "AMC" two years ago. Budig made the deal last week over lunch with ABC Daytime President Brian Frons and is already on her way back to New York. "I think it's all in place," she says. "I can't wait to get back to see my peeps, but we have so much to do. We sold our apartment in New York, so I'm going to have to rent somewhere - or crash on Cameron Mathison's [Ryan] couch."

Variety: While most fall shows have just one or two episodes left to air -- if that -- the Universal Media Studios/Imagine TV-produced "Friday Night Lights" is in much better shape. It'll have six episodes in the can when it returns early next month from a short holiday break. "We're hoping that the lack of original (scripted) competition will help the ratings," Manze said. "Just by default, we should see some kind of increase." It helps that "Friday Night Lights" isn't the 98-pound ratings weakling it appeared to be last season. In fact, NBC's decision to move the show to Fridays -- a shift some fans feared was a death sentence -- seems to have worked out well. Opposite two decently performing newcomers that have been given big promo pushes (CBS' "Moonlight," ABC's "Women's Murder Club"), "Friday Night Lights" has emerged as the No. 1 show in its 9 p.m. time period with viewers 18-34, making it the youngest scripted show on any network's Friday lineup. DVRs have also been a boon to the skein, one of the most time-shifted on TV -- ratings rise 18% when you count viewership that takes place after the first date of broadcast.

Independent: The continued popularity of "Coronation Street" and "X Factor" has shored up ratings at ITV1.

Soap Opera Network: Daytime Nielsen Ratings for the week December 3-7, 2007. All soaps are up in total viewers except "General Hospital" and "One Life to Live." CBS-TV's "The Young and the Restless," "The Bold and the Beautiful" and "As The World Turns" were the top three shows of the week.

Out on the Town - December 13, 2007

Former "Search for Tomorrow" star Jane Krakowski (ex-T.R.) attended the 27th Annual New York Women in Film and Television's MUSE Awards Luncheon at the New York Hilton and Towers.

After SFT, Krakowski had a short stint on "Another World" before making her way to prime time where she starred on "Ally McBeal."

She's currently starring in the critically acclaimed comedy "30 Rock."

Fun with Acronyms on ATWT

On Thursday's episode of "As The World Turns," Katie and Brad had this funny exchange:

Katie: Well, you would have if you would have been listening to me. No PDAs!

Brad: It was a little kiss on the cheek. What's the BFD?

BFD? Big F*cking Deal? CBS censors probably have no idea what BFD means.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Elaine Princi (ex-Dorian, OLTL/ex-Linda, Days/ex-Miranda, ATWT) - 64
Tammy Blanchard (ex-Drew, GL) - 31

Mamma Mia! Trailer

"Mamma Mia!" the movie is coming to theaters next year. It's the story of a bride-to-be trying to find her real father told using hit songs by the popular '70s group ABBA. Former soap actress Amanda Seyfried stars as Sophie. She was the Lucy on "As The World Turns" before Peyton List and also played Joni on "All My Children." Meryl Streep, Colin Firth and Pierce Brosnan also star.

Evening News

PR-Inside.com: Former "General Hospital" and "The Bold and the Beautiful" star Sean Kanan has been sentenced to 96 hours in jail after pleading guilty to driving under the influence. Kanan, 41, was pulled over by Los Angeles police in August and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and driving with a blood alcohol of .08 or greater. At a hearing on Thursday, Kanan was also ordered to pay a fine and participate in an 18-month alcohol education program. This is not Kanan's first run-in with the law - he was previously convicted of DUI in 1998, reports TMZ.com.

The Sun: A violent thug killed his best friend by setting him ablaze as they watched "EastEnders." Stephen Cotton, 36, poured petrol in front of flatmate Stephen Fitzpatrick during a row, then flicked a match into the fuel.

World Screen: Anne Sweeney, co-chair of Disney Media Networks and president of Disney-ABC Television Group, talks about streaming shows, moving "Grey's" to Thursday and the 18-34 demo called "millennials."

Radar Online: Rumer Willis was named "Miss Golden Globe" today. She follows a long line of next generation talent various degrees of success including A.J. Lamas (ex-Rafi, ATWT) and Liza Huber (Gwen, Passions).

CBS News: Forget Oprah, Hillary Clinton's secret weapon in South Carolina might be "Young and the Restless" star Victoria Rowell, who's stumping in the state for the New York senator today.

NBC: Alison Sweeney ("Days of our Lives") returns as host of a new season of "The Biggest Loser" on January 1st.

AfterElton.com: Support "As The World Turns'" Luke and Noah, or ask Van Hansis a question.

Marlena De LaCroix: Marlena blogs: "I am 100% behind the Writers Guild and their strike. I come from a union family — my late grand-aunts spent just about every Sunday of the 1930s-60s freezing their tushs off in Union Square participating in rallies and demonstrations supporting organized labor, honoring the working man. Solidarity forever!"

Sabine Singh Friend Speaks Out

On the Superposter of the Year blog, a message was posted from someone claiming to be a close friend of Sabine Singh. I'm going to post it below. It speaks for itself.

ITS TRUE.

hi. im new to the board but have been reading it for months now as ss is one of my oldest dearest friends from home. I also hope she does not get angry at me for writing today and speaking HER TRUTH. She is DEVASTATED but is doing everything she can to hide it and continue to honor and respect the show, the fans, and her friends at amc. She was given the news this week and basically, i kid you not, given less than a week to "quietly get out".

regardless of if you like her or hate her, as a close member in her life i can tell you she has spent the past 10 months of her life giving amc everything. she worked everday 17 hours plus, gave up relationships, gave away sadie her dog she loves so much but couldnt take care of with such demanding studio hours - was in unbelievably difficult storylines, emotionally upheaving... so much. BUT then again, we all work so hard at our jobs and that is not my point. on monday she was called into the exec prods office and told to pack her things and leave, no thank you for your hard work - or doing the best you could - or giving it your all. nothing. Not even any financial compensation. she leaves in the middle of a four year contract with NO MONEY or means on how she will survive (ok i love the chick - she'll be just fine - but to be living your life knowing greenlees storyline for the next 6 months being told over and over again how much she is appreciated doing a great job their gonna want to renew her contract,etc, she was floored and SHE IS IN SHOCK.) and apparently rebecca asked to come back way before thanksgiving and they didnt even tell sabine. she coulve started looking for other work! shes being thrown away not cause she was a problem - but because someone else wanted their job back and the high ups at amc need to save their show with ratings.

Two weeks ago, (i KID YOU NOT THIS IS SO MESSED UP) she was sick on set. she had the stomach flu a 102 fever, but didnt complain. instead of the producers or medics or whoever saying she should take a break or even go home - THEY GAVE HER A BUCKET!!! They gave her a F'in bucket to vomit in , put it by her side, and made her stay and finish her scenes. Which she did. Cause the girl, even if you think she is so not greenlee and ugly and u hate her acting, she gave the show her all. The one thing she did do is she showed up. she committed to the role, the job, the fans ,and she loved and was so honored to be playing the role. Thats why it hurts me that right now she's on set working, probably smiling through tears, knowing that friday, rb comes in to shoot the 'welcome back to fusion' youve been redeemed scenes that s was so excited to shoot after all the bomb sheltr stuff) - and her unbelievably hard work means nothing. i told her not to go to work this week - who cares shes been fired anywya and it doesnt matter and she said "no - just because im being treated so badly, i respect my friends behind and in front of the camera and i cant do that to them, i cant mess with the integrity of the shows we are scheduled to shoot this week." She even went to work before the news broke yesterday and didnt tell anyone because she was worried it might affect the days work and other peoples performances. Thats the stuff i m taking about!

you guys rebecca didnt want the role. over and over she was offered it and she didnt want the role. and thats the bottom line. and thats why it breaks my heart that my dear friend has been treated so unfairly. and if you guys/bloggers who seem to be amazing soap fans have any say or pull to write or tell or whatever to the pwers that be - to say you wont stand for this behavior, to just get the word out to tell the soap magazines or whoever tell them what i said. my girl deserves better than to have to quietly sneak away, with the idea that shes being fired/replaced/disgraced. when all she did was audition for a role, book it, and do her job. Thats the crime shes being punished for. I just feel so lousy, and i am so no longer a fan of daytime - which has gotten me through the worst years of my life. I cant even stand to look at amc right now. oh - and the people cast crew on set are so sad too. they realize they are expendible as well - s even said the women and grown men prop guys lighting guys carpenters etc were CRYING and punching walls and yelling at the producers all kinds of stuff thats how messed up the real behind the scenes people think this is. i know ive written so much. thank u for taking a second to read this. I just wanted to tell the all my children fans what sabine would never say, and what is really going on over there.

jo b.

Writer's Guild of America Award Nominees

The Writers Guild of America, West (WGAW) and the Writers Guild of America, East (WGAE) today announced nominations for outstanding achievement in television, radio, news, and promotional writing during the 2007 season to be honored at the upcoming 2008 Writers Guild Awards - the WGA's 60th Anniversary award show - held on February 9, 2008, in Los Angeles and New York.

Here are the soap related nominees:

DAYTIME SERIALS

ALL MY CHILDREN, Written by James Harmon Brown, Barbara Esensten, Megan McTavish, Addie Walsh, Chip Hayes, Stephen Demorest, Michelle Patrick, Amanda L. Beall, Jeff Beldner, Karen Lewis, Rebecca Taylor, Marla Kanelos, Courtney Bugler, Joanna Cohen, Kate Hall; ABC

AS THE WORLD TURNS, Written by Jean Passanante, Leah Laiman, Christopher Whitesell, Courtney Simon, Anna Theresa Cascio, Lisa Connor, David A. Levinson, Gary Sunshine, Bettina Bradbury, Richard Culliton, Susan Dansby, Judy Donato, Mimi Leahey, Elizabeth Page Judy Tate; CBS

GENERAL HOSPITAL, Written by Robert Guza, Jr., Elizabeth Korte, Michael Conforti, Garin Wolf, David Goldschmid, Michele Val Jean, Mary Sue Price, Karen Harris, Susan Wald, Tracey Thompson; ABC

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, Written by Lynn Marie Latham, Scott Hamner, Jeff Gottesfeld & Cherie Bennet, Bernard Lechowick, James Stanley, Natalie Minardi Slater, Lynsey Dufour, Marina Alburger, Sara Bibel, Paula Cwikly, Janice Ferri Esser, Eric Freiwald & Linda Schreiber, Joshua McCaffrey, Sandra Weintraub; CBS

ON-AIR PROMOTION (RADIO OR TELEVISION)

Great of Heart, Not Every Dog, Symphonies of Stone, Tri-State Troops, Some Like it Hotter, Stars and Story Tellers, Written by Michelle Straebler; WNBC

DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Mini-Series, The Bradys Vs. The Dimeras, Written by Judie Henninger; NBC

DRAMATIC SERIES

DEXTER, Written by Scott Buck, Daniel Cerone, Drew Z. Greenberg, Lauren Gussis, Kevin Maynard, Clyde Phillips, Melissa Rosenberg, Tim Schlattman; Showtime

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS, Written by Bridget Carpenter, Kerry Ehrin, Carter Harris, Elizabeth Heldens, David Hudgins, Jason Katims, Patrick Massett, Andy Miller, Aaron Rahsaan Thomas, John Zinman; NBC

MAD MEN, Written by Lisa Albert, Bridget Bedard, Andre Jacquemetton, Maria Jacquemetton, Tom Palmer, Chris Provenzano, Robin Veith, Matthew Weiner; AMC

THE SOPRANOS, Written by David Chase, Diane Frolov, Andrew Schneider, Matthew Weiner, Terence Winter; HBO

THE WIRE, Written by Ed Burns, Chris Collins, Dennis Lehane, David Mills, George Pelecanos, Richard Price, David Simon, William F. Zorzi; HBO

Golden Globe Awards Nominations

The 65th annual Golden Globe Awards nominations were announced Thursday in Beverly Hills. Where the heck is "Friday Night Lights?" And where are Kyle Chandler and Connie Britton. There are no better actors on television.

Series, Drama: "Big Love," HBO; "Damages," FX Networks; "Grey's Anatomy," ABC; "House," Fox; "Mad Men," AMC; "The Tudors," Showtime.

Actress, Drama: Patricia Arquette, "Medium"; Glenn Close, "Damages"; Minnie Driver, "The Riches"; Edie Falco, "The Sopranos"; Sally Field, "Brothers & Sisters"; Holly Hunter, "Saving Grace"; Kyra Sedgwick, "The Closer."

Actor, Drama: Michael C. Hall, "Dexter"; Jon Hamm, "Mad Men"; Hugh Laurie, "House"; Jonathan Rhys Meyers, "The Tudors"; Bill Paxton, "Big Love."

News Brief

The Futon Critic: Rebecca Budig (soon to be back on "All My Children") returns to "CSI" tonight as exotic dancer, Candy, on an episode titled, "Lying Down with Dogs."

This is Nottingham: Video: The new Knight Rider, former "All My Children" hunk Justin Bruening, reveals he feels like a kid in a candy shop after landing the role, which was played by The Hoff in the 80s.

Press & Sun-Bulletin: Goodwill's leader becomes its leading lady. Most people in Greater Binghamton know Naima Kradjian as the woman who brought First Night to Binghamton, or as the driving force behind the Goodwill Theatre project. Kradjian's list of accomplishments is impressive, but there is something most people don't know. For seven years she worked as an actress and model, including five years as Audrey Wilson on "All My Children."

AfterElton: DirecTV has pulled the plug on the absolutely crazy soap Passions (which has had its share of gay goings-on), after picking it up at a yard sale from NBC earlier this year. Could possibly regift to Oxygen.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: All-digital TV could give news stations a place for wall-to-wall weather. It's called multicasting, and it allows the use of "side channels" to broadcast alternate programming. Fans of "Days of Our Lives" won't be disgruntled.

Digital Spy: NBC is expected to pull the plug on its remake of "Bionic Woman" after ratings for the show plummeted. The show, which stars ex-
EastEnders" actress Michelle Ryan in the lead role, debuted to 13.9 million viewers and a solid 14% share back in September. Since then, however, the number of viewers tuning in to the show has declined each week; on November 28, when the last episode produced before the WGA strike shut down work on the series aired, it dropped below 6 million.

Liverpool Echo: Never let it be said that "Hollyoaks" only employs beautiful people ... the odd talented peer of the realm slips through the net too. Theatre impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber has signed up to appear in three episodes of the show in the New Year.

Soap Opera Digest: "Once you get bitten by the bug, it's over," THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS' Daniel Goddard (Cane) laughs when describing his go-kart addiction. "I'm going out to the track and racing every week. The go-karts I'm driving go about 90 m.p.h., but when your butt's an inch-and-a-half off the ground and there's no suspension — so the car's completely stiff — you feel you're going 140. It's fantastic!"

NBC: Episode 22 of "Coastal Dreams" is now online. "The Skeleton in the Cellar" reveals the aftermath of April and Zoe finding an old diary in April's cellar which revealed they are half-sisters.

Out on the Town - December 12, 2007

The always stunning Julianne Moore arrives at the Yves Saint Laurent store for the launch of "Paris, 1962: Yves Saint Laurent and Dior, The Early Collections" by Jerry Schatzberg in New York City.

Moore won a Daytime Emmy Award in 1988 as Outstanding Ingenue in a Drama Series for the dual role of Frannie and Sabrina on "As The World Turns."

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Heather North (ex-Kitty, Paradise Bay) - 57
Christie Clark (ex-Carrie, Days/ex-Cindy, GH) - 34

More Turnover at ATWT

Supposedly Soap Opera Weekly has confirmed that Grayson McCouch is out as Dusty on "As The World Turns" in January. Fans has been speculating for months that he would leave at the end of his contract. Rumor has it he did not want to take a pay cut and chose to leave.

Too bad Brian Bloom, the original Dusty, is not available to return.

Could the speculation that the casting call for "Michael" is really a new Dusty be true? Or is Michael yet another new character coming to Oakdale on the seemingly never ending casting roller coaster.

In the past two months alone, Dylan Bruce, Wolé Parks, Ryan Serhant, Chaunteé Schuler, Lauretta Vaughn, Wally Kurth (along with Cowboy Jack the puppet) and Travis Wood have joined the cast and Billy Magnussen is on his way. Chris Heuisler was recently let go along with Cady McClain who brought the character of Rosanna back this year to only be wasted. Agim Kaba and Scott Bryce also returned to ATWT this year to find the writing doesn't match their previous stints, especially Bryce.

ATWT is not the only soap that seems to favor casting and recasting over good writing, but is definitely leading the pack.

Evening News

E! Online: The new Knight Rider KITT car made its public debut Wednesday. And as leaked on the blogosphere last month, it's a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR. "It's very smooth. For 600 horsepower," said former "All My Children" star Justin Bruening, who landed the human lead in the new Knight Rider, and spent the morning talking up his four-wheeled costar.

OK! Magazine: Rev up the engines! Former "The Young and the Restless" star David Hasselhoff is a Knight Rider once more! The actor, who shot to stardom 25 years ago as crime-fighting hunk Michael Knight, is set to make a cameo in a new NBC TV movie version of the classic show famous for David's plunging necklines and his super-intelligent talking car, KITT. OK! was there on Wednesday as NBC unveiled the new KITT Ford Mustang and introduced the cast of the new movie, set to air Sunday, Feb. 17. While former All My Children hunk Justin Bruening will be the main human star of the updated sequel, the Hoff is on board to reprise the role of Michael Knight. But before you expect to see him jumping over a river in a turbo-charged super-car, you should know that this time around, David appears in a small role as the father of Justin's character, Mike.

SyFyPortal: Garret Dillahunt will join Brian Bloom and Brian Austin Green as actors who have signed on to "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles" which has been picking up strong early buzz. Bloom will play a "bad" Terminator named Carter. He won an Emmy for role of Dusty on "As the World Turns," and has done voice work for the cartoon comedy "Sealab 2021" and for the game "EverQuest II."

AfterElton: Liveblogging "As the World Turns": Grandma Emma isn't running a gay bed and breakfast.

Soap Opera Digest: SPOILER: "As The World Turns" celebrates the holidays on Dec. 21 with a very special stand-alone episode, featuring the entire cast as they might have looked in Victorian times. The episode begins with Faith, Natalie and Lucinda having just seen a performance of The Nutcracker. As they walk through Old Town, they stop and see a dollhouse in a window. The camera zooms in to the dollhouse, and the figures come alive, bearing more than a passing resemblance to current residents of Oakdale.

Soap Opera Digest: Video: Soap Stars from all the New York-based shows — which include "All My Children," "As The World Turns," "Guiding Light" and "One Life to Live" — came together on Dec. 6 at Blondies Sports Bar in New York City for a Celebrity Bartending Event for Pancreatic Cancer. The actors raised $8,000 for the cause, which is supported through The Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research.

CBS: Do you have a question for "The Bold and the Beautiful's" Ronn Moss (Ridge)? Do you wonder if Ridge and Brooke will stay together? Or will he turn his back on her now with her connection with baby Jack? Now, here's your chance to ask him what he thinks! Submit questions to AskBB@cbs.com, then come back to see if Ronn answered your questions! And be sure to include your name and hometown for Ronn

NBC: Video: Behind the scenes with Ken Luckey (Will) from "Coastal Dreams."

Los Angeles Times: Shonda Rhimes, Isaiah Washington and Katherine Heigl were awkwardly among 500 protesters who picketed today in front of Paramount Studios. It's unclear if there was any interaction with Heigl, but Washington did talk to the "Grey's" creator. "We gave each other a big hug," says Rhimes. "I love him. Isaiah is an incredible talent, and I wish him all the best in the world. What happened with him has nothing to do with him as an individual. As they say, love the sinner, hate the sin."

AfterEllen: Colombians don't like the Americanized "Ugly Betty." The country that gave birth to "Yo soy Betty la fea" don't seem to like ABC's remake. "Watching the gringo version would be like reading '100 Years of Solitude in English.' It makes no sense," says one Colombian TV expert.

Newsflash: Rebecca Budig Back to AMC, Singh Out

Soap Opera Weekly is reporting that two-time Daytime Emmy nominee Rebecca Budig is returning to the role of Greenlee on "All My Children" and Sabine Singh is out.

Budig originated the role in 1999 and won a Soap Opera Digest Award in 2003 as Outstanding Younger Leading Actress. She left AMC in 2005 to pursue other interests. She previously played Michelle Bauer on "Guiding Light." You can catch her on CSI again this week as Candy on Thursday night's episode on CBS.

Sabine Singh joined AMC earlier this year and never caught on with fans as well as Budig. Singh seemed no worse for the wear on Monday night when she attended the "There Will Be Blood" New York premiere with boyfriend Evan Altman.

"All My Children" seems to have a new approach to winning back lost viewers - brining back fan favorites. As previously reported, Darnell Williams and Debbi Morgan are returning to the sudser as well. Williams told WeLoveSoaps, "I'm actually looking forward to the work."

ATWT's Sofie Gets Her Groove On

Justine Cotsonas plays Sofie Duran on "As The World Turns," the pathetic pregnant girlfriend to Cole whose baby for months was obviously going to end up with Will and Gwen. Weak-minded Sofie hasn't won over legions of fans, but Justine is very talented and hot to boot. To see another side of Justine, check her out in the Vinyl Addicts music video for "One More Song."

News Brief

Daily Mail: Caption Records is experiencing a hectic end-of-year pace, as the promotional push for Michael Damian's holiday favorite, "Christmas Time Without You'' gains momentum. Damian is already well-known for his role as Danny Romalotti for 18 years on The Young and the Restless, his starring Broadway role as Joseph in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and for his Billboard º1 hit single, "Rock On.''

Worthington Daily Globe: A look back at artists and entertainers who died in 2007 including Darlene Conley (Sally Spectra, "The Bold and the Beautiful") and Edward Mallory (Bill Horton, "Days of our Lives").

WJZ: VIDEO: Guiding Light Cast Members Visit Charm City.

PGP Blog: "Guiding Light" stars John Driscoll (Coop), Crystal Chappell (Olivia) and Ricky Paull Goldin (Gus) traveled to Baltimore, MD on Tuesday, December 11 to work with the Hands On Network affiliate, Baltimore Volunteer Central, to help sort and package thousands of toys and clothing to be distributed to children through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program.

AfterElton: The Year in Gay Television: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Betty. The other defining trend of the year was the rise of television’s gay teen. Over the summer, long-running daytime drama "As the World Turns" made television history when its two gay male characters kissed, marking the first man-to-man kiss in the history of soaps. What’s even more groundbreaking is that the kiss occurred between two teenagers, Luke Snyder and his boyfriend Noah Mayer. Since the kiss, the young couple’s story has been handled with an impressive amount of sensitivity, and the characters are treated just like any other beleaguered soap couple.

Richmond and Twickenham Times: The funeral of Tony Holland, joint creator of the BBC soap "EastEnders," took place on December 6. Mr Holland, who lived in Chiswick, died in hospital, aged 67 on November 28, after a long illness. The following day's episode of "EastEnders" was dedicated to him.

Baltimore City Paper: The Year in Television. The continued greatness of "Friday Night Lights" is due entirely to it not being about high school football.

Towleroad: Australian actor Tim Campbell, who formerly starred in the long-running soap opera "Home and Away," has come out of the closet following reports that he is dating newly-single "Australian Idol" contestant Anthony Callea. The two have been spotted together around Melbourne. Campbell denies he and Callea are involved.

Out on the Town - December 11, 2007

Former "As The World Turns" star and Oscar winner Marisa Tomei particpated in the 13th Annual Critics' Choice Awards Nominees Announcement at VH1 Headquarters in New York City.

James Pickens, Jr. (ex-Zack, "Another World"), Jack Coleman (ex-Jake, "Days of our Lives") and Ryan Carnes (ex-Lucas, "General Hospital") were among the many former soap starts attending the Weinstein Company premiere of "The Great Debaters" at the Arclight Theater in Hollywood.

Classic Soap Clip of the Day

To honor Gloria Loring on her 61st birthday, here is a special 1986 classic clip from "Days of our Lives" as her character Liz sings "Friends and Lovers."


Also check out this great clip from 1986 where Liz's brother, Todd, dies. More classic characters including Josh Taylor as Chris Kositchek, the only character he should have ever played on DAYS.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Dan Hamilton (ex-David, GL/ex-Robert, SS, ex-Hal, AMC/ex-Jeff, AW/ex-Wade/EON/ex-Thornton, ATWT) - 62
Gloria Loring (ex-Liz, Days) - 61
Wings Hauser (ex-Greg, Y&R) - 60
Ana Alicia (ex-Alicia, RH) - 51
Holly Gagnier (ex-Ivy, Days/ex-Cassie, OLTL) - 45
Burke Moses (ex-Curtis, Loving/ex-Briggs, GL/ex-Sean, ATWT/ex-Bulge, OLTL/ex-Andrew, AMC) - 43

Evening News

Daily Mail: Is "Coronation Street" about to lose its time slot after 45 years? For many viewers 7.30pm on ITV means one thing: "Coronation Street." But after more than 45 years in the slot, channel bosses are said to be considering changing the show's start time.

CBS: Interview with "The Bold and the Beautiful" newcomer Mykel Shannon Jenkins (Charlie). "What makes acting intriguing is the ability to take mastery of a piece and make it uniquely their own."

Soap Opera Digest: It's been a bittersweet end of the year for "One Life to Live's" Ilene Kristen: Roxy is flirting with a love interest, while Kristen is flying solo after a broken engagement. "I think it will be [love with Miles], but I've got to tell you, I don't really know because we're shooting a lot out of sequence. I've shot some stuff, but it's hard to say where it's exactly going."

Soap Opera Digest: When Harley and Gus decided to divorce on "Guiding Light," Beth Ehlers (Harley) knew she had an onscreen challenge ahead of her. But the biggest surprise came when she discovered the breakup aftershock the script had in store. "Harley was trying to give [Gus] a lot of leash to do what she thought he needed to do, because if she didn't let him explore [a relationship with Natalia], he was going to resent her. I thought it was to come back to Harley."

New York Times: Striking members of the Writers Guild of America East picketed outside of the ABC Daytime studios on the Upper West Side of Manhattan today beginning at 9:15 a.m. (almost an hour earlier than most days) in order to catch audience members who were arriving to see the popular morning talk show “The View.” The West 66th St. studio is also home to the ABC soap opera “All My Children.”

Moviehole: Aimee Teegarden (NBC’s “Friday Night Lights”) is officially attached to star in Velveteen Films’ upcoming feature film “Hickory Nation”.

Austin American-Statesman: "Friday Night Lights" shines on Friday nights. "The national press has put 'Friday Night Lights' in this box of 'We love it, but it's too good for television, and it's never going to work,' " NBC's president of program scheduling, Vince Nevins, said. "But I think they're missing the story. Between the upscale demos, the young demos and the enormous amount of DVR viewing this show attracts, this show is actually starting to work on Friday nights."

ATWT Casting Call

ATWT has a casting call out for the role of "Michael" which sort of sounds like a recast Dusty. The script is careful not to give too much away, but Emily Stewart is talking with Michael and he's telling her that "he" really knows her and she's not a bad person. "I don't scare easy," says Michael. "Loss is a hell of a thing. It eats away pieces of you until you think there's nothing left. You pray there's nothing left so you won't feel the pain anymore. But you wake up and it's still there."

Sounds like it could be Dusty, if the rumors of Grayson McCouch leaving are true. Strictly speculation at this point.

ATWT and GL Previews for Wednesday

Guiding Light: Lizzie insists Billy go to rehab. When reporters show up, Bill comes to the rescue.

As The World Turns: Luke hints to Noah he might be ready to be intimate while Holden doesn't think Emma acted irrationally.

Evan Walsh IV: Not a Geek with a Robot Fetish?

Ryan Serhant (Evan Walsh IV) on his "As The World Turns" character.
"Things are slowly starting to heat up Oakdale for Evan Walsh. I know that his storyline might seem like it is lagging at the moment, but it will pick up after the holidays. Maybe Even isn't the boring science geek with 'a robot fetish' that we all think he is."

Serhant is referring to a line Emily had on the December 4th show: "Do I look like I'd go for a science geek with a robot fetish?"

He was the winner of this season's "Inturn" on CBS.com.

CBS Holiday Plans

The CBS Daytime schedule will celebrate the season with holiday-themed episodes in December on "The Young and the Restless," "The Bold and the Beautiful," "As The World Turns" and "Guiding Light."

On "The Young and the Restless," as a snowstorm strands the residents of Genoa City with unlikely partners, David surprises Nikki with an unexpected proposal. Victor turns the tables on Nikki and Kay, and Sharon makes a decision about her future with Jack, who gets a surprise visit from his sister, Ashley.

On "The Bold and the Beautiful," Christmas is a time for soul searching for Stephanie, while Eric tries to bring his family together for the holiday. The day is complete when Brooke arrives, ready to forgive Stephanie for her part in putting Brooke's father in prison and the Forrester family happily reunites.

On "As The World Turns," Gwen and Will receive the ultimate Christmas present in the form of their new daughter. The Hughes family gathers to celebrate the holiday in Bob's hospital room and pray for a Christmas miracle, while Jack isn't feeling goodwill towards man when he warns Sam to stay away from his family. And in a special episode that airs on December 21, a turn of the 20th Century dollhouse comes to life and depicts the residents of Oakdale in situations that may or may not be reminiscent of their own. Oakdale is swept up into a Victorian-era fantasy inspired by a dollhouse in an Old Town shop window. At the end of the show, the entire cast sings a carol. Many of the characters take on different parts, such as Brad as a reverend and Katie as a maiden. Lucinda is a cook, with Margo, Tom & Bob as part of her staff. Van Hansis (Luke) and Jake Silbermann (Noah) play former schoolmates who discuss their "friendship."

On "Guiding Light," Will finds a way to trap last-minute shoppers in the mall so that he can have his mother, Cassie, all to himself. While stuck there, Josh and Reva share a holiday tradition and end up closer together. Olivia kisses Gus, and Beth goes into labor, with Alan at her side.

HolidaySchedule:
Tuesday, December 25 - ATWT and GL pre-empted. Y&R (Christmas 1995) and B&B (Christmas 2003 featuring Darlene Conley) will air classics.

Monday, December 31 - ATWT and GL pre-empted. Y&R (2006 ghost Cassie episode) and B&B (5000th episode) will air classics.

Tuesday, January 1 - All CBS soaps pre-empted.

Free Nikki Finke

"Guiding Light" writer Chris Dunn on the picket line at Sony in a "Free Nikki Finke" t-shirt. Finke had taken a couple of personal days off from her Deadline Hollywood blog which is providing excellent coverage of the writer's strike. Dunn previously wrote for "Sunset Beach," "Santa Barbara," and "General Hospital."

News Brief

Variety: DirecTV has lost its passion for "Passions" -- but the NBC U-produced sudser isn't quite dead yet. Satcaster has told NBC it won't be ordering a second season of the soap, which moved to DirecTV in September as part of a $40 million deal designed to bring more original programming to the service. NBC canceled the show earlier this year. In order to keep "Passions" on DirecTV through August, satcaster has ordered 52 additional episodes of the show from the Peacock's Universal Media Studios. However, starting in early to mid-January, skein will begin airing just three times a week (compared with four weekly airings now). "Passions" will go on an extended holiday hiatus next week, then return in February for another month of filming. Show will wrap production in March, and as of now, there are no firm plans for it to continue. However, with UMS having reduced the budget on the show significantly, there's talk that "Passions" might yet find another life elsewhere. Newly acquired cabler Oxygen might make a good fit. Peacock also could turn the skein into an Internet-based sudser.

BBC News: Police are investigating after an incident outside a Pembrokeshire pub in which former "EastEnders" actor Marc Bannerman was arrested following a row with photographers. Mr Bannerman, who was visiting fellow I'm a Celebrity contestant Cerys Matthews, had been followed to the Ship Inn in Trefin.

Guardian Unlimited: The recently launched Diva TV is aimed, as its name - if you squint hard and apply a semantically elastic approach to the issue - suggests, is aimed at the laydeez. Its cornerstones are TV movies starring Patrica Wettig, daytime soap "The Bold and the Beautiful," and a 10-year-old US series called "Picket Fences" which barely troubled the ratings even on its first outing, due to the fact that it was created by David E Kelley out of all the bits he couldn't crowbar into Ally McBeal before someone drove the merciful stake through its heart.

CTV: "Gossip Girl" star Penn Badgley just 'fell into' acting. The actor's first critical success came when Badgley was nominated for the "Young Artist Award" in "Best Performance in a Daytime TV Series" for his work on "The Young and the Restless."

Soap Opera Diegest: Jennifer Lenhart writes: "Have you ATWT fans heard about Project Holiday Spirit? It’s a campaign started by "Nuke" fans who wanted to get actors Van Hansis (Luke) and Jake Silbermann (Noah) holiday gifts, but — inspired by Hansis’s blog entry about the depressing commercialization of Christmas — decided to raise money for a worthy cause instead. They settled on donating to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and set a goal of $500, but as of today, they’ve raised over $3,500 for the charity. I think this is a wonderful way to show support and appreciation."

PGP Blog: “Welcome Back!" to a New York State of Mind. Mariann Aalda (ex-Didi, "The Edge of Night) writes: Okay, so after twenty years of living in Los Angeles as a “freeway culture isolationist,” buffered by my car from the regulation of mass transit schedules as well as any unwanted up-close and personal interaction with humanity, I have been back in New York City since June...having moved here to help care-take my ninety year old mother; re-ignite my post-divorce love-life, and resuscitate my acting career with a midlife reinvention and remodel.

Soap Opera Network: Darnell Williams and Debbie Morgan will be returning to "All My Children" in early 2008 as Jesse and Angie. Morgan shows up first on January 18th.

TV Guide: Last spring, As the World Turns star Colleen Zenk Pinter as diagnosed with oral cancer. Now her character, the conniving Barbara Ryan, is about to meet the same fate. "I set up a meeting to pitch the idea to our executive producer, Chris Goutman, even though I wasn't sure I was emotionally ready to do such a story," says Pinter, 54. "We sat down and, before I could say anything, Chris pitched the same idea to me." The actress, who underwent three surgeries and internal radiation treatment, is now cancer-free and eager to spread the word about the increasingly common, potentially deadly disease. "Like cervical cancer, oral cancer has now been linked to the HPV virus," says Pinter, noting that the Web site oralcancerfoundation.org was her lifesaver---literally. First doctors missed her cancer, then recommended the wrong surgery, prompting her to take charge, do her own research and get herself the proper care. The bad news will hit Barbara on January 2, the same day she's banned from the baptism of her grandchild. "She's all alone and desperate when she gets the diagnosis, " Pinter says. "She ends up at the church after the christening, praying for help. Let me tell ya, that was a tough scene to get through."

CBS: She may have not taken home the grand prize like Ryan Serhant (Evan) during this past season of "InTurn" but Lauretta Vaughn impressed "As The World Turns'" Executive Producer Chris Goutman so much that he offered her a two-week gig on ATWT this past summer. Now her character Kit has returned to Oakdale to financially back Metro for Carly. "I am so excited to be back on ATWT. I've been taping a lot of episodes and a few months ago I got married."

Out on the Town - December 10, 2007

"All My Children" stars Leven Rambin (Lily/Ava) and Sabine Singh (Greenlee) attended the "There Will Be Blood" Premiere at the Ziegfeld Theater in New York City.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Mitch Ryan (ex-Alex, AMC/ex-Frank, GH) - 79

If you thought the writer’s strike provoked nasty comments before, the gloves have really come off now that the talks have broken down, A letter from a top Writers Guild official out Monday implies that the Hollywood producers organization, AMPTP, never planned to negotiate in good faith and that the real management agenda is to destroy the union.

The talks have crumbled, with no renewal of negotiations in sight. On Monday, WGA East President Michael Winship wrote his members a letter that began with this comment about the AMPTP: “They lie…And then they lie again. And then they lie some more.”

“On Tuesday, December 11, we’ll be picketing ABC Daytime, from 9:15 am to 2 pm, outside the studios of “The View” and “All My Children,” at 320 West 66th Street, just west of West End Avenue. We march in support of our striking writers at both shows. The four hosts of “The View” have been notably unsupportive of their striking writers and we intend to let them hear our dissatisfaction.

Budig Back to CSI This Week

Former "All My Children" star Rebecca Budig (ex-Greenlee) will return to her guest role on "CSI" as Candy on this Thursday's episode "Lying Down with Dogs." She appeared in last week's show as well.

I Wannabe a Telenova Star

VH1 is beefing up its unscripted slate, greenlighting an eight-episode series featuring aspiring telenovela stars.

In the new series "Viva Hollywood!" 12 bilingual Latino and Latina contestants will learn the "7 Deadly Sins of Telenovelas" -- passion, lust, charisma, drama, fire, seduction and scandal -- in order to impress the judges: actress-singer Maria Conchita Alonso and singer-songwriter Carlos Ponce. Astrologer Walter Mercado will give the contestants guidance.

The winner will land a role on a Telemundo telenovela, representation from management company Latin World Entertainment and a $100,000 prize. The hourlong series, from World of Wonder (VH1's "What Perez Sez"), premieres in the spring.

Ugly Betty Star Mugged

David Blue, the actor who plays Cliff, Marc's boyfriend on "Ugly Betty," was mugged after leaving a wrap party for the show in Hollywood.

The actor wrote about the incident on his MySpace blog:
MUGGED!!!

Sorry to be a downer,

I went to a wonderful wrap party for season 2 of UGLY BETTY tonight. It was a blast, full of cast, crew, producers, writers, etc. I had a lot of fun with America, Michael and a bunch of other nice people. In fact, even after working on the show for so long, I had somehow never gotten pictures of myself with any of the people I've worked with. So, tonight I took a lot of pictures and had a great time.

Then, walking back to my friends' car, about a block away from the party, two men jumped out of their car and held a gun to my face and stole my wallet and my friends' purse/camera/phone. They drove away and I've spent the past 2 hours talking with the police and my credit card companies.

There's a sad part of me that is just happy that I got away alive and that my friend wasn't hurt. There's another sad part of me that is happy they got me and not America Ferrera, Michael Urie, Judith Light or anybody else at the party with WAY more money than myself. There's another sad part of me that is so angry that I just want to see these people put behind bars as soon as possible. You see, though I've been lucky to recur on two different shows, I'm still far from financially stable. Hopefully, I was able to catch my credit cards before they got anything. [In fact, all my companies say they tried to spend some money on ALL of them in the past 20 minutes at a single gas station but were denied because I cancelled them so fast.] But now I have no money for food, supplies or anything for a week. It's sad how quickly your life can be affected... and even more sad how angry a few people's SAD choices can affect people's lives so morosely.

It bothers me that this was Hollywood. I've lived in New York, Astoria, Queens, Florida, Kentucky, Virginia, Texas, all over... and this crap happened in the heart of Hollywood near a MAJOR intersection. I'm just glad we were smart enough to hand over our money so quickly. Because I can tell you, even with a gun in my face, my first reaction was to nail this guy in the face with as many punches as I could muster... but instead I looked at my female friend and realized it'd be better to hand over my wallet and call the police.

Be careful kids. And let's hope these guys get caught before they do too much damage. The police told us that this has happened a few times in the past few weeks. And on top of that, as we were in their car, we heard a radio call saying another mugging happened with the same description...about 30 minutes after ours.

Per Huber & Martsolf, Passions Canceled Again

As previously reported, a message supposedly from Tracey Ross was posted on a message board that "Passions" was being canceled by DirecTV. Liza Huber (Gwen) has now posted a confirmation on her message board as well:

"Hi Everyone,
Yes, it is true that Passions will finish taping at the end of March 2008. We will start airing 3 days a week on DirecTV which should last through summer of 2008. It has been a wonderful ride (although Gwen has completely lost her mind!) and I want to thank all of you for your amazing support for Passions through the years!

much love - Liza"

Eric Martsolf (Ethan) also confirmed the cancelation on his message board:

"This rumor is indeed true at this point. Passions is scheduled to stop shooting March 2008.
Eric"

"Passions" debuted in July 1999 replacing beloved 35 year legenedary soap "Another World." The show quickly won the hearts of younger fans and stayed at or near the top of the teen girl and young female demos. But somewhere along the line, many fans lost interest and James E. Reilly's stories became less and less creative. The show was canceled by NBC earlier this year but picked up by DirecTV to air on The 101. The show has been airing four days a week with repeats in the evening and on weekends since September.

"As The World Turns" and "Guiding Light" are up for renewal in September 2008 so "Passions" may not be the only soap leaving the airwaves next year. Both ATWT and GL have begun a new taping technique aimed to cut production costs in half.

News Brief

Allentown Morning Call: Did 'General Hospital' kill the Golden Goose? We miss the Quartermaines' typically wacky Thanksgiving dinners that usually ended up with the ordering of pizza. There are now very few Quartermaines left to share the holiday, which wasn't even celebrated this year -- owing largely to the death of Emily, one of the most perfect soap-opera characters.

Louisville Courier-Journal: Botched casting and unsubtlety spoil 'Brothers & Sisters'. ABC's "Brothers & Sisters" is a fine, upstanding member of the Quality Network TV Club. The drama, created by acclaimed playwright Jon Robin Baitz and TV whiz kid Greg Berlanti, is built on real-life matters such as the Iraq war and fierce political partisanship. The cast is a full court of TV royalty, with two-time Oscar winner Sally Field as the queen. So why do I dislike this show so very much?

This is Nottingham: Strictly Come Dancing judges Len Goodman and Craig Revel Horwood will apparently kiss and make up after a having a huge row live on air during Saturday night's show. "Some people reckon one of them will be eating humble pie." Viewers saw former "EastEnders" actress Letitia Dean get the boot after going head-to-head with Alesha Dixon in the dance-off.

: Nikki Finke writer's strike update: WGA Picketing Is No Picnic In Arctic NYC

Glens Falls Post-Star: Perhaps part of country music legend Bill Anderson's success has been his adaptability through the decades. In addition to having his own syndicated variety on television during the 1960s, Anderson was the first country star to host a network game show, starring on ABC's "The Better Sex." He also appeared for three years on the network's soap opera "One Life to Live" and served as host of several shows on The Nashville Network.

Kotaku: Shooting on the Dragon Ball Z hasn't started yet and the cast is still being assembled. Jamie Chung will be playing Goku's wife, Chi Chi. Chung cut her acting chops as herself in reality show "The Real World," three episodes of "Days of Our Lives" and as a Hooters girl in Adam Sandler's I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

John J. York (Mac, GH) - 49
Jaime Garrett (ex-Hannah, S&S) - 30
Gavin Houston (ex-Remy, GL/ex-Damien, Rockland County) - 26

Out on the Town - December 9, 2007

"Guiding Light" star Liz Keifer (Blake) poses with her daughter Isabella Convertino who is starring in the play "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe."

Isabella plays Lucy in the first act and the fox in the second act.

The show is running at the Philipstown Depot Theatre in Philipstown, New York.

Top 10 at the Box Office - Soap Stars Making an Impact

1. The Golden Compass: wkd $26,125,000, (cume $26,125,000) - Featuring Jim Carter (ex-Matthew, "Casualty"), Kathy Bates (ex-Belle, "All My Children") and Paul Antony-Barber (ex-Robert, "EastEnders")

2. Enchanted: wkd $10,706,000, (cume $83,865,000) - Featuring Susan Sarandon (ex-Patrice, "A World Apart") and Tonya Pinkins (ex-Livia, "All My Children" and ex-Heather, "As The World Turns")

3. This Christmas: wkd $5,000,000, (cume $42,760,000) - Featuring Sharon Leal (ex-Dahlia, "Guiding Light")

4. Fred Claus: wkd $4,660,000, (cume $65,589,000) - Featuring Kathy Bates (ex-Belle, "All My Children")

5. Beowulf: wkd $4,400,000, (cume $75,983,000) - Featuring Robin Wright Penn (ex-Kelly, "Santa Barbara"), Nadine Stenovitch (ex-Josie, "Another World") and Sebastian Roché (Jerry, "General Hospital")

6. No Country for Old Men: wkd $4,233,000, (cume $28,861,000) - Featuring Tommy Lee Jones (ex-Mark, "One Life to Live")

7. August Rush: wkd $3,525,000, (cume $25,148,000) - Featuring Ronald Guttman (ex-Alexander, "All My Children")

8. Hitman: wkd $3,475,000, (cume $35,810,000) - Featuring Henry Ian Cusick (ex-Jason, "Casualty")

9. Awake: wkd $3,301,000, (cume $10,716,000) - Featuring Fisher Steven (ex-Henry, "Ryan's Hope) and David Harbour (ex-Shanks, "As The World Turns"

10. Bee Movie: wkd $2,612,000, (cume $121,028,000) - Featuring Ray Liotta (ex-Joey, "Another World")

Box Office data: Box Office Mojo

Out on the Town - December 8, 2007

Megan Ward (Kate on "General Hospital") attended The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep special screening in Los Angeles.

Ward was recently named to the WeLoveSoaps Top Newcomers of 2007 list.

Patrika Darbo (ex-Nancy, "Days of our Lives") was also in attendance.

The film stars Geraldine Brophy, Craig Hall and Joel Tobeck from "Shortland Street" and Ben Chaplin from "Casualty."

News Brief

New York Daily News: SPOILER: All about saving face on 'Young and the Restless'. Jeffrey Bardwell busts Gloria for the tainted Jabot face cream this week on "The Young and the Restless," leading to a shocking outcome. "Another man who's trying to take all her money," snaps Judith Chap-man, who plays wealthy widow Gloria Abbott Bardwell.

The Desert Sun: For Desert Hot Springs resident and soap star Judith Chapman, currently appearing as Gloria Fisher Abbott on "The Young and The Restless," The Palm Springs Classic Film Festival is a treat. "I'm actually seeing people I haven't seen in years," she said between greeting and chatting with fans at her booth. Chapman, who is a co-owner of The Vineyard Tuscan Grill in Palm Springs, was eager to participate when she was approached by the organizers of Starfair. "I so wanted to do it," she said. "I said I'd bring 'Y&R' stuff, but what I really wanted to do was promote my play ('Catonsville 9.') Everyone was so positive, I was impressed."

Entertainmentwise: "I'm A Celebrity" star Marc Bannerman is facing claims he cheated on his ex-girlfriend with a prostitute in a drug-fuelled tryst. Marc split with Sarah Matravers after falling in love with singer Cerys Matthews on the show, but is now facing sordid details of his indiscretions during his two year relationship with the actress. Prostitute Shann Fallon claims the ex-"Eastenders" actor hired her this summer whilst Sarah was away from the home they shared together, taking cocaine and cannabis with him.

Digital Spy: Sid Owen is confident that his return to "EastEnders" will be a hit with viewers. The actor, who plays Ricky Butcher, is making a comeback alongside Patsy Palmer - better known as Ricky's ex-wife Bianca. "They know these old characters work. We've proved that in the past and, providing the storylines are strong enough, it will work," Sid told the Daily Star Sunday. "By bringing us back they are also hoping to bring back a lot of the old viewers they've lost and the strong viewing figures of the past. "It is so hard for a long-running soap like 'EastEnders' to keep those viewing figures up and keep being a success."

Pocket-lint: Channel 4 has announced that is it launching a HD service on Sky from Monday 10 December. "Hollyoaks" will be available in HD from Spring 2008, making it the first home-grown soap to announce its commitment to being produced in HD.

Korea Times: The epic ``Taewangsasingi'' topped the nation's No. 1 search engine Naver's most searched word list last week. The title stands for the four guardian Gods of the king. While the soap opera has enjoyed high popularity, its final episode aired by MBC on Dec. 5, caused discontent with the TV audience. Following the ending, the program's on-line bulletin board was bombarded with messages from viewers, alleging that the final story did not follow the script made public in advance.

Melbourne Herald Sun: TALENTED actor Nathan Phillips looks set to join the cast of The Factory, the big budget Hollywood flick co-written and produced by "Canal Road" and "As The World Turns" star Paul Leyden. Acclaimed US actor John Cusack has been cast in the lead role in the thriller.

Snark Weighs In: Snark reviews the Soap Opera Digest Best & Worst of 2007 list.

Evian Dreams: Has "Passions" been canceled again? Yes, per a message supposedly from Tracey Ross. (login required)

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Frances Reid (Alice, Days/ex-Rose, EON/ex-Grace, ATWT) - 93
Dick Van Patten (ex-Larry, Young Doctor Malone) - 79
Joe Lando (ex-Jake, OLTL/ex-Macauley, GL) - 46
Jesse Metcalfe (ex-Miguel, Passions) - 29

Victoria Rowell Loves Lynn Latham

Watch this video (50 seconds in).

Victoria Rowell (on newly hired Lynn Marie Latham) in early 2006: "I think at this point Lynn is new energy, new blood, new vitality and I think she's going to take it to an apex...I'm very excited about her vision and her enthusiam."

Rowell left the soap in April of this year when her character Drucilla fell off a cliff and "died."

News Brief

Deadline Hollywood: Nikki Finke writer's strike update: Talks Day #8: Moguls Walk From Talks After Issuing An Ultimatum To Writers; Both Sides Accuse Each Other Of Lying.

Boston Globe: For years, says Kristian Alfonso, she's been getting e-mails from fans asking where she gets her jewelry. "They loved what I was wearing, and they wanted to buy it," says the Brockton-bred actress who plays Hope Brady on "Days of Our Lives." "So my sister and I put our heads together and thought, 'Why don't we give them what they want?' " Since Alfonso designs much of her own jewelry, she decided to start her own line - "Hope, Faith, Miracles" - which includes many of the same distinctive earrings, bracelets, and necklaces Hope wears on the show.

Contra Costa Times: The 22nd annual Kwanzaa Holiday Gift Show, which runs 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. today and Sunday at the Oakland Convention Center will be a star-studded event. Emmy-nominated actress Victoria Rowell -- known for her longtime role on the daytime drama "The Young and the Restless" and her role opposite Samuel L. Jackson in 2006's "Home of the Brave" will be promoting her book, "The Women who Raised Me," a memoir about her 18 years in foster care.

Australian Stage Online: Jonathan Gavin’s new play, Tiger Country, opens on a very bogan Christmas with the Unwins. There’s Eddie (Josef Ber), who’s just out of jail after doing eight months and his young preggie wife Kylie (Eve Morey), who’s ready to pop, but still keen to get home and watch her favourite soap "The Bold and The Beautiful."

Fort Wayne Journal Gazette: Soap icon starting over. Genie Francis is starting over. “I feel like, for whatever reason, I have been given a second chance,” says the “General Hospital” icon, known to millions as Laura Spencer, now starring in the Hallmark Channel movie “The Note” (at 9 tonight).

GoErie: A little more than 20 years ago actress Genie Francis was gracing the cover of every magazine and tabloid as the fabled Laura of the Luke-and-Laura romance from daytime's "General Hospital." Thirty million viewers tuned in to watch their wedding -- more than any before or since. But the bride did not live happily ever after. Francis was already snagged in a web of self-destruction when she was told that the show's producer considered her a mere appendage to her co-star.

Jamaica Gleaner: When the dynamic Tom Pelphrey left "Guiding Light" earlier this year, fortunately the writers didn't kill off his character, Jonathan Randall. Not that the death of a character can't be undone in soaps, but by making Jonathan fake his death after his soulmate, Tammy (Stephanie Gatschet), died and leave Springfield, they have made it much easier for Pelphrey to return.

Digital Spy: SPOILERS: "EastEnders'" Kevin Wicks will be killed off in a dramatic car accident on New Year's Eve. Kevin, played by Phil Daniels, will be driving a bent motor from Phil Mitchell when a fault causes the crash. The vehicle flips through the air and lands on its roof, causing Wicks to be impaled on a piece of wreckage. His fate is sealed when the car bursts into flames.

Glasgow Daily Record: Soap Week: Plot The Next Six Days on "Coronation Street," "Emmerdale," "Neighbours," "EastEnders" and more.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Michael Levin (ex-Jack, RH/ex-John, ATWT/ex-Tim, AMC) - 75
Billy Hufsey (ex-Emilio, Days) - 49
Teri Hatcher (ex-Angelica, Capitol) - 43

Ask The Actor - Van Hansis

Email questions to: mailto:pgpwebmaster@televest.com
Visit the site: astheworldturns.net

Upscale Friday Night Lights

The second season of "Friday Night Lights," the critically acclaimed drama set on and off a Texas football field, has managed to attract no more than 7.5 million viewers a week.

Fans could say NBC is partly to blame; the Friday time slot the show now occupies is sometimes considered a death sentence. Twenty percent of viewers record the show and watch it later, according to Nielsen data.

But "Friday Night Lights" has one fact in its favor: despite ranking No. 53 in the 18- to 49-year-old demographic this season, it is the second most "upscale" series on television (behind the NBC comedy "The Office").

The statistic is noted by NBC in its ratings reports every week, and likely emphasized to advertisers as well. It means that "Friday" delivers more affluent viewers than almost any other broadcast TV show.

Nielsen reports viewership habits of 18-to-49 homes reporting $100,000-plus in income on an index scale, with 100 being the average. "Friday Night Lights" has averaged an index of 141 through Nov. 11, bested only by the 153 index of "The Office." The trend holds for other demographics as well. (It takes several weeks for Nielsen to process the affluency data.)

The other top "upscale" shows, in case you’re curious: "30 Rock;" "Scrubs;" "60 Minutes;" "Sunday Night Football;" "Amazing Race 12;" "Two and a Half Men;" "Dirty Sexy Money;" and "Grey’s Anatomy."

PREVIEW FOR TONIGHT: It’s the last new episode of 2007 and will bring baby Gracie’s baptism, the revival of Jason Street’s love life and, of course, Landry’s confession. Fri. at 9 p.m. ET, NBC

Before They Were Soap Stars - Martha Byrne

Before she won two Emmy Awards as Lily Snyder on "As The World Turns," Martha Byrne starred on Broadway in "Annie" in the role of July.

From the Playbill: Martha is making her Broadway debut at the age of ten. A resident of Waldwick, N.J., she attends St. Luke’s School and is the youngest of four children. She studies jazz and tap with Linda Bove and participated in the Ridgewood Theatre Workshop.

News Brief

New York Daily News: SPOILER: Brad's life changes on 'As the World Turns'. Kate and Brad hit the sheets Friday on "As the World Turns," but for very different reasons - she wants a baby; he's in love with her. "She wants to try it the oldfashioned way," says Austin Peck, who plays Brad. "First, she wanted to do it artificially. He had to go to the hospital by himself and go in a room. He couldn't do it. He told them, 'Sorry!' and was disappointed in himself. Then Katie called. She's changed her mind."

Los Angeles Times: TV breeds the new male star. As the class divide between TV and film keeps shrinking, TV has been solidifying its role as a maker of leading men. Original shows, on cable as well as network TV, are shifting attention to more mature and complex characters. The small screen is now crowded with charming, smart, confident, humorous grown-up men who are riveting critics' attention. Kyle Chandler's manly, moral husband/father/coach centers NBC's "Friday Night Lights." Jon Hamm's mysterious, unfaithful husband/father/ad executive takes charge of AMC's "Mad Men," and Jeffrey Donovan, the intelligent, haunted and irreverent bachelor/ex-CIA agent adds depth to USA's "Burn Notice."

The Futon Critic: NBC rolls out a full slate or original programming for the first quarter of 2008. "Friday Night Lights" will remain on Fridays and "Lipstick Jungle" will premiere in "ER's" timeslot on February 7th.

Starpulse: Hunter Tylo has filed a wrongful death claim against the social worker who counseled her late teenage son. "The Bold And The Beautiful" actress was left devastated when Michael Tylo Jr., 19, drowned in a swimming pool accident following an apparent seizure on October 18. Hunter, 45, initially launched a malpractice lawsuit against therapist Shanna Downing, but she has now changed this to a wrongful death suit.

Ridgecrest Daily Independent,: Tidings of great joy from...Joan Collins? Peter Chianca writes: Well, in her personal message Joan writes, “Just like all my screen and stage characters, I love making a grand entrance. So I simply can’t let the launch of my new jewelry collection go by without a personal word to mark the occasion.” OK, but I find it surprising that she’d take time to write me about this, and I didn’t hear word one from her when she got that guest spot on “Guiding Light.”

Seattle Post Intelligencer: "Dancing with the Stars" update: Mark Ballas, 21, is on the mend after undergoing arthroscopic surgery Wednesday afternoon on his left shoulder. One of the unsung heroes in this story is another celebrity dancer, MBA Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. It was Cuban who rushed in to help All My Children star Cameron Mathison when Mathison strained his hip (Mathison suffered from a childhood disease that endangered the use of both hips) while performing on the show. It was about the half-way point of the competition and Mathison was afraid that for him, the show was over. "Mark was such an amazing help," says Mathison. "He doesn't tell anyone he's doing these things. He just does them. He put me on the phone with the trainer for the Dallas Mavericks and [the trainer] told me what to do to test the hip, to see what kind of injury it was. It wasn't serious. But I was really worried."

WSBtv: ABC Daytime and SOAPnet have joined forces to ensure fans enjoy their favorite ABC Daytime stars every day of the week with the first-ever 14-month “Hot Guys” 2008 calendar, featuring some of the biggest male stars from the top-rated shows “All My Children,” “One Life to Live” and “General Hospital.” If you would like a free calendar send an email to donna.lampkin@wsbtv.com

NWI: Bailey Chase's hit television series centers on a police detective (Holly Hunter) whose downwardly spiraling life is touched by a "last-chance" angel. And since "Saving Grace" premiered in July (new episodes air Mondays at 9 p.m. this month on TNT), Chase (ex-Chris, "As The World Turns") has experienced a seemingly supernatural reversal of his own.

Celebrating the Soaps: What can be said about 2007 that is actually positive? It's the year the soap opera died, some say. With the average rating hovering just above a 2.0, Passions relegated to a small cable provider, NBC all but saying they're giving up on "Days of Our Lives," and "As the World Turns" & "Guiding Light" having their budget crunched to the point that they're going to use hand-held digi-cams next year, it's been a tough ride for the devoted soap fans still out there. Still, there are some positives to celebrate, and of course some more negatives to complain about. So here is this year's Best & Worst!

Dallas Morning News: "Good Morning Texas" host Amy Vanderoef is a living soap opera. The Channel 8 personality is just back from New York after shooting an episode of "One Life to Live."

Scotsman: In her teens, Sarah Michelle Geller was in the television series "All My Children" before landing the role of Buffy a decade ago. Next up she depicts sorrow in the romantic drama The Air That I Breathe; will star in the film version of the book A Girl's Guide To Hunting And Fishing, titled Suburban Girl, and is down to lead the thriller/horror Addicted.

National Ledger: Carrie Underwood and Chace Crawford were once headed for the next "it" couple status but reports continue to emerge that Chace may have a bit of a wandering eye. He's already been linked with co-star Leighton Meester and now sources tell OK Magazine that Gossip Girl’s Chace has been stepping out with All My Children and Carrie "look-alike" Leven Rambin, 17.

AfterElton: SPOILER: Breaking ATWT News: Luke invites Noah to spend the night.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Kevin Stapleton (ex-Kevin, OLTL) - 44

Genie Francis to General Hospital Fans: "I'm Sorry"

Inspired by the message at the heart of "The Note," the Hallmark Channel movie she stars in this Saturday at 9 pm/ET, Genie Francis wants to make amends with any "General Hospital" fans who to this day — decades after the fact — were disappointed to see her quit the sudser at the peak of her popularity. She tells TV Guide, "I know that Laura [Baldwin Spencer] meant a great deal to many people, and still does," says Francis. "I've long regretted not taking the fans into account when making the hasty decision to leave the show.

"Forgiveness and reconciliation are at the core of The Note, and filming it forced me to look inside myself at certain decisions in my past.... Right now I want to reach out to all of my fans and say that I'm sorry. I'm sorry for leaving you so abruptly, for not taking into account the feelings of the people who helped Laura truly take on a life of her own.

"It was the decision of a young, impetuous girl," Francis says in closing, "and the woman she has become asks for your forgiveness."

ABC Daytime Ratings for November

ABC's Daytime Lineup's No. 1 rank for the November sweep in Women 18-49 (1.4 rating) marked its fourth consecutive November sweep win and tenth consecutive major sweep win.

Following are Daytime Lineup ratings averages, plus Top 5 Programs Ranks - November 2007 Sweep:

 
Daytime Rank:  
Total Viewers              Women 18-49 (Rtg/000s)
No. 1 CBS  3.96 million    No. 1 ABC  1.4/905,000
No. 2 ABC  3.01 million    No. 1 NBC  1.4/897,000
No. 3 NBC  2.59 million    No. 3 CBS  1.3/867,000

Top 5 Daytime Programs in Women 18-49 (rank based on rating) 

Program                       Net      Rtg/000s
The Young & the Restless      CBS      1.9/1.23 million
General Hospital              ABC      1.6/1.07 million
The View                      ABC      1.4/917,000
Bold & the Beautiful          CBS      1.4/899,000
Days of Our Lives             NBC      1.4/897,000

Source: NTI, Live + Same Day, 11/1-11/20/07. U.S. Ratings.

FNL's Zach Gilford Up For Film Role

According to the Hollywood Reporter, "Friday Night Lights" star Zach Gilford is in final negotiations to play the love interest of Alexis Bledel in the Fox Atomic comedy "The Post-Grad Survival Guide."

Michael Keaton, Carol Burnett and Rodrigo Santoro also are joining the cast.

The film centers on Ryden Malby (Bledel), who graduates from college and is forced to move back home with her eccentric family while trying to find a job, meet the right guy and figure out where her life is headed.

Celebrity Bartending Charity Event Tonight in NYC

Who: Jennifer Landon (Gwen, ATWT), Terri Colombino (Katie, ATWT), Martha Byrne (Lily, ATWT), Grayson McCouch (Dusty, ATWT), Austin Peck (Brad, ATWT),Thorsten Kaye (Zach, AMC), Bobbie Eakes (Krystal), Colin Egglesfield (Josh), Robert Bogue (Mallet, GL), Beth Ehlers (Harley, GL), Gina Tognoni (Dinah, GL), Ricky Paull Goldin (Gus, GL), Michael Easton (John, OLTL), John-Paul Lavoisier (Rex, OLTL), Catherine Hickland (Lindsay, OLTL), Melissa Archer (Natalie, OLTL), Farah Fath (Gigi, OLTL) plus other surprise guests to be revealed THAT NIGHT. (Alicia Minshew (Kendall, AMC) is unable to attend.)
What: Celebrity Bartending Event for Pancreatic Cancer.
When: Thursday, December 6, 7 � 10 p.m.
Where: Blondies, 212 West 79th Street, New York, NY.
How: $25 at the door. No reservations.

Out on the Town - December 5, 2007

"Friday Night Lights" star Minka Kelly attended the GQ 2007 "Men of the Year" party at the Chateau Marmont on in Los Angeles.

Kelly plays Lyla Garrity on the critical darling FNL. Lyla has found religion this season and most recently her talk with Landry convinced him to go to the police station and confess to murdering Tyra's wannabe rapist.

She's been in the tabloids of late seen out on on the town with pop singer John Mayer.

News Brief

Paper Magazine: Soap Opera Digest is not usually a place one expects to find evidence of social progress, but recently the magazine has been an unexpected forum for gay rights in America. The weekly poll of fans’ favorite couples from each daytime drama has chosen a new couple from "As the World Turns." The couple is a classic soap pairing. Young and gorgeous, they’ve been through a lot -- a secret crush, a messy triangle, a disapproving father and a bedside hospital scene (“Why can’t I move my legs?”). Business as usual in Soaptown, USA? Yes, except that the lovers in question are both college boys.

TV Guide Canada: Nelson Branco names his "Soapers of the Year."

Soap Opera Digest: Video: Steve Burton (Jason, GH) and Bradford Anderson (Spinelli, GH) flew across the country last weekend to meet with more than 400 eager fans in New Jersey. Digest's Bryan Beckley was on hand to chat with the duo before their event.

Detroit News: Since 1981, James Reynolds has starred as Abe Carver on NBC's "Days of Our Lives," certainly logging more hours on TV than most actors can ever dream of. Admired worldwide for his humanitarian and charitable efforts, Reynolds has received numerous awards for his work in front of the camera and within communities that have special needs. As busy as he is with "Days" and other TV guest appearances, he and his wife, actress Lissa Layng, own and operate the Fremont Centre Theatre in South Pasadena, Calif. Reynolds, a former Marine who served in Vietnam, is also active in the USO Celebrity Education Program.

Bossip: For those of you wanting to see more of former "Days of our Lives" actor Marcus Patrick, now's your chance. Playgirl has billed him as "CSI's Marcus Patrick" although his most significant role has been on DAYS. The uncropped cover and rest of the spread is over at Bossip.

GenerationQ: Society is never as it seems in State's Evidence, now available on DVD. The cast are not too bad overall and regular readers will know actor Drew Tyler Bell from "The Bold and The Beautiful." Alex Vega best known for her role in Spy Kids certainly grows up to take on this role. While in some parts this film will raise more questions than answers, it is a harsh look at the lives of high school kids that we may chose to ignore.

Metro: It seems former "Emmerdale" star Samantha Giles is heading to "Hollyoaks." Samantha, who played Bernice Blackstock in the ITV1 soap until 2002, will apparently take over from ex-"EastEnders" actress Jacqueline Leonard to replace party-loving Vivien Holden, who is mother to Lauren and Danny Valentine. A show insider told Digital Spy: "She's the sort of mother that every child dreads. Viv still thinks she's a teenager and dresses accordingly. "It'll be fun to see what she gets up to - and who she gets involved with."

Playbill: Tony Award winner Tonya Pinkins, most recently on Broadway in the late August Wilson's Radio Golf, will star in the West Coast premiere of As Much As You Can. Pinkins played Heather Dalton on "As The World Turns" in the mid-80s and more recently seen as Livia Frye on "All My Children."

New York Times: Mitch Longley, former “Another World” and “Port Charles” actor, remembers that day in Rowayton 24 years ago when hundreds of friends, relatives and well-wishers from the community gave him a surprise 18th birthday party and presented him a Buick, wrapped in a bow, that he could drive on his own, with his hands. He rolled through the cheering crowd on his wheelchair, hoisted his body into the driver’s seat, pulled each leg into place, started the engine and cried, calling thank you over and over again to everyone. “That was sort of the moment that changed everything,” said Mr. Longley, 42, in a recent phone interview from his Santa Monica bungalow.

CBS: She’s conquered the great white way having starred in such acclaimed Broadway shows like, “The Lion King” and “Dreamgirls.” Now, Chauntee Schuler has blown into Oakdale ["As The World Turns"] as Bonnie McKechnie -- the daughter of Duncan and Jessica -- a lawyer looking to settle down in town. " I'm really looking forward to giving Bonnie a new spin. I think the last time Bonnie was seen in Oakdale, she was very young and kind of a spoiled brat. She had a lot of money and she had a lot of time on her hands. Bonnie returns changed. A lot of things have happened to her to alter her lifestyle, we're going to get a much more mature Bonnie."

Soap Opera Digest: Devin Owens writes about his experience covering the first-ever Soap Cruise last month: "On the third day of the cruise, we would be docking on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, so I was anxious to check out the Mayan ruins of Tulum. It was just my luck that I found out that Christian [J. LeBlanc] wanted to do the same thing, so we bought our excursion tickets on the ship, then agreed to meet the next day."

MarlenaDeLacroix.com: "As The World Turns" Returnee Scott Bryce: Why is ATWT Wasting This Multifaceted Talent?

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Barton Stone (ex-John, Love of Life) - 87
Leon Russom (ex-Peter, GL/ex-Willis, AW/ex-Jack, AMC) - 66
James Naughton (ex-George, RH) - 62
JoBeth Williams (ex-Carrie, Somerset/ex-Brandy, GL) - 59
Kin Shriner (Scotty, GH and PC/ex-Keith, ATWT/ex-Harrison, Y&R/ex-Mike, Rituals/ex-Jeb, Texas) - 54
Janine Turner (ex-Laura, GH) - 45
Lindsay Price (ex-An Li, AMC/ex-Mary, Days/ex-Michael, B&B) - 31
Jack Krizmanich (ex-John, Passions) - 29
Ryan Carnes (ex-Lucas, GH) - 25

Flashback: 1982 Douglas Marland Leaves GL

From the Syracuse Post-Standard, November 2, 1982:

Writer's Love Affair with 'Light" is Over
by Gary Deeb

Eight years ago, Douglas Marland gave up a moderately successful career as a television and stage actor and decided to write soap operas.

Having performed on a few soaps, he was generally unimpressed with the quality of the scripts he had seen. He was pretty sure that he could do better.

And so, after attending a soap-writing seminar sponsored by Procter & Gamble, which owns many daytime dramas, Marland got hired as a writer on "Another World."

He became head writer of "The Doctors," and "General Hospital" (where he created the fabled Luke and Laura characters) and 2 1/2 years ago, of "The Guiding Light."

Marland achieved his greatest success on "The Guiding Light," helping transform the video fossil into one of the liveliest, most imaginatively-written programs ever to hit daytime TV.

During his reign as head writer, "The Guiding Light" captured many awards - including two Emmys to Marland for his outstanding stories - and jumped back near the top rank of the daytime audience ratings.

An admittedly hopeless romantic, Marland often compared his work on "The Guiding Light" to a passionate love affair. He brought to the program his sense of style, charm and grace, while reinforcing the presence of discarded mainstays.

But in the classic soap opera tradition that he knows so well, Marland's love affair is over.

The last "Guiding Light" installment supervised by him was aired a month ago, and a new head writer, Pat Falken Smith, is at the helm.

"Sometimes something happens and you just fall out of love with a show," Marland told this column at his Connecticut home.

"That sounds corny and melodramatic - maybe like what someone would expect from a soap opera writer - but it's the truth. Because in daytime TV, you're working seven days a week, and if you really don't love what you're doing, you can't do it' it isn't fair to the show."

Surprisingly, Marland's falling-out with the producers of "The Guiding Light" and with sponsor, Procter & Gabmle, had nothing to do with the usual writers' complaints about interference with the creative aspects of the program.

Beginning in January 1980, when he started as head writer, Marland says he was given a free hand to mold plots and characters as he saw fit.

The only problem was the "creative lethargy" of executive producer Allen Potter and his lieutenants.

As far as Marland was concerned, the last straw came with the firing of actress Jane Elliot, who played the Marland-created character of Carrie Marler.

Marland bitterly opposed the elimination of the Carrie role, for which he had just completed another year's worth of storyline.

What troubled Marland most deeply about the dumping of Elliot was that Potter had told him (and Elliot) that the decision had been dictacted by Procter & Gamble for "budgetary reasons," and that the money problem was the sole reason that her contract wasn't renewed.

Weeks later, however, Marland said he learned the truth - that Potter pulled the plus on Elliot "because he said he found her to be a 'difficult actress' in the studio."

Once Marland reached his decision to quit "The Guiding Light," he recommended Falken Smith as his replacement.

Although he isn't that well acquainted with her, Marland was familiar with her work as a writer for "General Hospital" and more recently, for "Days of our Lives."

Falken Smith's public feud with "General Hospital" producer Gloria Monty was even more bitter than Marland's 1979 dismissal from "GH" by Monty.

"I knew Pat had suffered through many of the same things I did at the hands of Gloria Monty - and i wish you'd quote me on that," Marland said.

Marland's created a soap opera, "New Day in Eden," that'll premiere this month on cable and pay-TV systems across the country.

His agent is entertaining offers from several network soaps, and Marland expects to announce his next writing post very soon.

MIT Class on American Soap Operas

Why didn't they have this when I was in college?

In the spring semester at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Sam Ford will be teaching a class on the American Soap Opera. The course is not just open to MIT undergraduate and graduate students but also students at Harvard University, Wellesley College, the Massachusetts College of Art, and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts. Ford did his Master's thesis work on soaps and has a couple of book projects in motion currently on the current state of daytime serial dramas.

CMS 603/CMS 995: American Soap Operas
The television landscape has changed drastically in the past few years; nowhere is this more prevalent than in the American daytime serial drama, one of the oldest forms of television content. This class examines the history of these "soap operas" and their audiences by focusing on the production, consumption, and media texts of soaps. The class will include discussions of what makes soap operas a unique form, the history of the genre, current experimentation with transmedia storytelling, the online fan community, and comparisons between daytime dramas and primetime serials from "24" to "Friday Night Lights," through a study of Procter & Gamble's "As the World Turns."

Mike and Mike to Guest Star on Guiding Light

ESPN Radio's morning hosts Mike Greenburg and Mike Golic of "Mike & Mike in the Morning" will be making an appearance on "Guiding Light" in February. They have discussed the show on air in the past following former NFL star Mark “Roc Hoover” Schlereth's appearances on the show. Here in a transcript from their latest discussion which took place yesterday.

Greeny: We are going down there Friday to tape our episode of Guiding Light. I’m told it will air on February 20th, so we’ll remind you if you want to see Mike and Mike on Guiding Light. But, here are the characters they wrote for us. We’re not playing ourselves. I assumed we’d play ourselves.
Golic: No we’re not. One thing I’m excited about: I immediately searched “wardrobe” for what I was going to have to put on, and I get to wear what I wear on the show here. So, it works out pretty well.
Greeny: Let me guess: A golf shirt and jeans.
Golic: Yep. It was either that or a thong; their choice.
Mark: Or a mumu.
Greeny: But it’s pretty cold in New York this week.
Golic: A who-who?
Greeny: So we’re shooting this thing Friday right after the show, and here’s the characters they’ve given us. We play brothers, Greg and Elliott. I’m Greg, you’re Elliott.
Golic: I’m Elliott!
Greeny: In our scene, the brothers, Greg and Elliott, have a run-in with the town minister, Josh Lewis, and his ex-wife Reva. It seems that one of the minister’s sermons inspired both Greg and Elliott’s wives to leave them for each other.
Golic: Yes! We’re both married, but our wives leave us…
Greeny: …for each other…
Golic: …and hook up.
Greeny: Now, let’s make it very clear. We have nothing to do with this. They wrote this for us. They have us playing brothers…
Golic: Brothers. Let me tell you what: talk about brothers from a different mother! Are you kidding me?
Mark: You know it’s sad when the two of you are such bad husbands that you drive your wives to each other.
Golic: And, we get in a fight! We get in a fight with a minister and his ex-wife over this.
Greeny: In stereotypical Mike and Mike fashion, it says, “Elliott (Golic) reacts with broodish anger, while Greg (Greeny) is depressed.” This is what they wrote for us!
Golic: You know what? We got the script…
Greeny: I’ve got a lot of lines!
Golic: …and there are a lot of lines. There’s a lot of memorization here. Did you have a lot of lines?
Mark: Well, yeah. I don’t know if I had this many lines, but you guys are professionals!
Golic: Do they have a teleprompter, or do you have to memorize this stuff?
Mark: You have to memorize.
Golic: Will I have an assistant there holding cue cards or telling me what the lines are?
Mark: Listen, here’s my advice. I’m like you. One thing about being an analyst in this business is, we don’t memorize anything. We’re just completely, 100% off-the-cuff.
Golic: Concise information analysis.
Mark: Exactly. In this stuff, you’ve got to kind of memorize it, but here’s the deal: as long as I’m on the general gist of things, that’s good enough.
Golic: It doesn’t have to be word-for-word?
Mark: Not word-for-word.
Golic: And they’re okay with that?
Mark: Get the gist of it, the feel of it, and move forward.
Golic: The thing I like about our scene - and I’m not going to give anything away - but there is a physical confrontation. Whoo! I get to beat someone’s butt, I think.
Greeny: I think it’s a woman. Don’t you beat up the woman?
Golic: I’m not beating up a woman!
Greeny: Doncha get into it with the woman? I just started reading it yesterday briefly.
Golic: I get into it with the minister.
Greeny: You’re going to beat up a man of the cloth?
Golic: You don’t do a whole lot.
Greeny: I just sit there and mope.
Golic: I get in his grill.
Mark: You get to play to your strengths, Greeny! Sit around and mope.
Golic: Yeah. This is just like him around the house.

Before They Were Soap Stars - Jake Silbermann

Before he became a soap sensation on "As The World Turns" where he plays Noah Mayer, Jake Silbermann was performing in plays like "The Three Sisters" (November 2004) in his Syracuse Drama Department days.

News Brief

Soapdom: Tune into As The World Turns on Friday, December 21 for a special Christmas episode that brings a turn-of-the-20th-century dollhouse to life and depicts the residents of Oakdale in situations that may or may not be reminiscent of their own.

Deadline Hollywood: Nikki Finke's writer's strike update: "I've been able to glean a little from Tuesday's resumed WGA-AMPTP talks. Both sides sounded very matter-of-fact about today's negotiations focusing on the writers' counter-offer. Now that the news blackout has been lifted, the AMPTP issued this public end-of-day statement: 'We will spend the evening studying what the WGA had to say today, and we look forward to returning to the bargaining table tomorrow.' Earlier in the day, WGA Negotiating Committee Chair John F. Bowman, on behalf of the Writers Guild of America, issued a message to members about the contract negotiations and presented a report-&-analysis."

TheBoldAndTheBeautiful.com: John McCook (Eric, "The Bold and the Beautiful") chatted with fans last night: "Eric will never stop being connected to Stephanie but he does not like who he is when he is with her anymore. He's happier with someone who is not committing felonious acts and manipulating relationships all the time. Eric thinks Donna is wonderful. He loves her. He is surprised by that and happy to be spending this time with her."

World Screen News: In Norway, TV2 Norway picked up another season of "Hollyoaks", a youth-targeted soap produced by Lime Pictures for Channel 4.

PGP Blog: "CBS 2 News This Morning" co-anchor Kate Sullivan will appear on "Guiding Light" as herself on Tuesday, December 11 as she reports on the Springfield election results. Will it be Buzz or Doris as mayor of Springfield?

This is Nottingham: "Coronation Street's" David Platt apparently gets lucky in the New Year - when he lands his first girlfriend. The Weatherfield troublemaker (Jack P Shepherd) gets together with shopkeeper Tina McIntyre (Michelle Keegan) after they discover their mutual love of horror films, reports The Daily Star.

CBS: Attention "Guiding Light" Fans. Several CBS stations preempted GL today, Tuesday, December 4 for a live Presidential news conference. The following stations will air the GL episode in late night.

WRGB Albany will air at 2:07am
WJZ Baltimore will air at 3:07am
WBBM Chicago will air at 1:37am
WWJ Detroit will air at 5:00am
WNEM-DT Flint/Saginaw will air at 12:30am
WANE Fort Wayne will air at 2:37am
WFOR Miami will air at 1:37am
WCBS New York will air at 2:07am
KYW Philadelphia will air at 2:05am
KDKA Pittsburgh will air at 2:07am

WYOU Scranton will not make good the broadcast. Log onto CBS.com beginning at 3pm PT/6pm ET to watch the full episode of "Guiding Light".

Out on the Town - December 4, 2007

Former "As The World Turns" actress Emmy Rossum attended the Hollywood Reporter Power 100 Breakfast held at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Rossum was the original Abigail Williams (daughter of Holden and Molly) on ATWT.

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Peter Hansen (ex-Lee, PC/GH) - 86
Harris Yulin (ex-Michael , ATWT) - 70
Lewis Arlt (ex-David, SFT/ex-David, AW/ex-Richard, RH) - 58
Pamela Blair (ex-Elizabeth, RH/ex-Rita Mae, Loving) - 58
Morgan Brittany (ex-Katherine, Dallas) - 56
Joseph Barbara (ex-Joe, AW/ex-Paolo, AMC) - 40