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!