Tune in today at Noon ET/9am PT for the premiere episode of "The Nuke Fancast" on BlogTalk Radio.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
News Brief
Nelson Branco's weekly "Suds Report"
Deidre Hall "off" DAYS! Exclusive: Cameron Mathison’s summer job… in Canada, eh! AB-See-ya: Josh Duhon, John Ingle, and Leven Rambin! Davidson back on Y&R!
Losing "The Natural" — An Appreciation of Beth Ehlers
Patrick Erwin blogs: "Beth Ehlers is on her way to ABC and ALL MY CHILDREN's Pine Valley, and they’re all damn lucky to have her. But for the second time in just a few months, P&G and CBS have made the boneheaded move of allowing someone who was woven deeply into the tapestry of a show to walk away. P&G clearly hasn’t learned from the loss of AS THE WORLD TURNS' Martha Byrne (the definitive Lily) and made the same mistake twice! They’ve let another beloved performer walk away with the audience’s heart and a big chunk of the tapestry of the show with all of the history and memories attached. This is something few recasts can ever replace, no matter how hard they try!"
PHOTOS: Cyndi Lauper on ATWT
The P&G blog posted three photos from Cyndi Lauper's July 3rd appearance on AS THE WORLD TURNS.
ATWT's Silbermann in People Magazine
"I'm sure there are haters, but I've only experienced the warmest support from the fans. I get letters from people who feel this character has really helped them."
Dorian tastes corporate high 'Life'
Dorian rocks the Buchanan Enterprises shareholders meeting next week on ONE LIFE TO LIVE by exposing Jared as a fraud and then revealing that she has taken over the company.
"It looks like it's going to be just a regular old stockholders meeting, and then we see Dorian," says Robin Strasser, who plays Dorian. "She busts in wearing one of the best hats ever worn and announces she has information that Jared is not officially a Buchanan. That means all the deals he made are null and void. Therefore, she is picking up all that loose stock, and that makes her queen for a day."
Daytime Nielsen Ratings for the week of May 19-23, 2008
From the ABC Daytime ratings press release:
* For the second straight week, ABC ranked as Daytime's No. 1 network in Women 18-49 (1.4 rating/905,000 - tied in rating).
* For the 12th week running, "General Hospital" was the week's No. 1-ranked program in Daytime in Women 18-34 (1.0 rating - tie).
* With its best performance in 13 weeks, "One Life to Live" was Daytime's No. 2-ranked program in Women 18-49 (1.5/966,000 - tied in rating- since week of 2/18/08), and also captured a Top 5 finish in Women 18-34 (No. 4T - 0.9/310,000).
* In Women 18-49, ABC owned 3 of Daytime's Top 5 programs for the 7th straight week: "General Hospital" (No. 2T, 1.5 rating/986,000), "One Life to Live" (No. 2T, 1.5 rating/966,000) and "The View" (No. 5T, 1.3 rating/872,000).
* In Women 18-34, ABC delivered 3 of Daytime's Top 5 programs for the 7th consecutive week: "General Hospital" (No. 1T, 1.0 rating/332,000), "The View" (No. 4T, 0.9 rating/312,000) and "One Life to Live" (No. 4T, 0.9 rating/310,000).
* "General Hospital" surpassed time period competitor CBS' "Guiding Light" in the 3 o'clock hour by a hefty 141% in Women 18-34 (332,000 vs. 138,000), by 64% in Women 18-49 (986,000 vs. 602,000) and by 24% in Total Viewers (2.78 million vs. 2.25 million).
Following are the Daytime Lineup averages, plus Top 5 Programs Ranks - Week of May 19, 2008:
Top 5 Daytime Programs in Women 18-49 (rank based on rating)
VIDEO: Daytime Emmy Submissions
Watch clips from the submitted episodes by shows and actors.
Former AW Art Director does set design for Sex and the City movie
Sex and the City production designer Jeremy Conway was responsible for all the interior looks on the show and in the film. Years ago, his "first real paying job" was as an art director for the NBC soap opera ANOTHER WORLD.
Deidre Hall "off" DAYS! Exclusive: Cameron Mathison’s summer job… in Canada, eh! AB-See-ya: Josh Duhon, John Ingle, and Leven Rambin! Davidson back on Y&R!
Losing "The Natural" — An Appreciation of Beth Ehlers
Patrick Erwin blogs: "Beth Ehlers is on her way to ABC and ALL MY CHILDREN's Pine Valley, and they’re all damn lucky to have her. But for the second time in just a few months, P&G and CBS have made the boneheaded move of allowing someone who was woven deeply into the tapestry of a show to walk away. P&G clearly hasn’t learned from the loss of AS THE WORLD TURNS' Martha Byrne (the definitive Lily) and made the same mistake twice! They’ve let another beloved performer walk away with the audience’s heart and a big chunk of the tapestry of the show with all of the history and memories attached. This is something few recasts can ever replace, no matter how hard they try!"
PHOTOS: Cyndi Lauper on ATWT
The P&G blog posted three photos from Cyndi Lauper's July 3rd appearance on AS THE WORLD TURNS.
ATWT's Silbermann in People Magazine
"I'm sure there are haters, but I've only experienced the warmest support from the fans. I get letters from people who feel this character has really helped them."
Dorian tastes corporate high 'Life'
Dorian rocks the Buchanan Enterprises shareholders meeting next week on ONE LIFE TO LIVE by exposing Jared as a fraud and then revealing that she has taken over the company.
"It looks like it's going to be just a regular old stockholders meeting, and then we see Dorian," says Robin Strasser, who plays Dorian. "She busts in wearing one of the best hats ever worn and announces she has information that Jared is not officially a Buchanan. That means all the deals he made are null and void. Therefore, she is picking up all that loose stock, and that makes her queen for a day."
Daytime Nielsen Ratings for the week of May 19-23, 2008
From the ABC Daytime ratings press release:
* For the second straight week, ABC ranked as Daytime's No. 1 network in Women 18-49 (1.4 rating/905,000 - tied in rating).
* For the 12th week running, "General Hospital" was the week's No. 1-ranked program in Daytime in Women 18-34 (1.0 rating - tie).
* With its best performance in 13 weeks, "One Life to Live" was Daytime's No. 2-ranked program in Women 18-49 (1.5/966,000 - tied in rating- since week of 2/18/08), and also captured a Top 5 finish in Women 18-34 (No. 4T - 0.9/310,000).
* In Women 18-49, ABC owned 3 of Daytime's Top 5 programs for the 7th straight week: "General Hospital" (No. 2T, 1.5 rating/986,000), "One Life to Live" (No. 2T, 1.5 rating/966,000) and "The View" (No. 5T, 1.3 rating/872,000).
* In Women 18-34, ABC delivered 3 of Daytime's Top 5 programs for the 7th consecutive week: "General Hospital" (No. 1T, 1.0 rating/332,000), "The View" (No. 4T, 0.9 rating/312,000) and "One Life to Live" (No. 4T, 0.9 rating/310,000).
* "General Hospital" surpassed time period competitor CBS' "Guiding Light" in the 3 o'clock hour by a hefty 141% in Women 18-34 (332,000 vs. 138,000), by 64% in Women 18-49 (986,000 vs. 602,000) and by 24% in Total Viewers (2.78 million vs. 2.25 million).
Following are the Daytime Lineup averages, plus Top 5 Programs Ranks - Week of May 19, 2008:
Daytime Rank: Total Viewers Women 18-49 (Rtg/000s)
No. 1 CBS 3.44 million No. 1 NBC 1.4/947,000
No. 2 ABC 2.84 million No. 1 ABC 1.4/905,000
No. 2 NBC 2.84 million No. 3 CBS 1.2/763,000
Top 5 Daytime Programs in Women 18-49 (rank based on rating)
Program Net Rtg/000s
The Young & the Restless CBS 1.6/1.08 million
General Hospital ABC 1.5/986,000
One Life to Live ABC 1.5/966,000
Days of Our Lives NBC 1.4/947,000
The View ABC 1.3/872,000
Bold and the Beautiful CBS 1.3/843,000
VIDEO: Daytime Emmy Submissions
Watch clips from the submitted episodes by shows and actors.
Former AW Art Director does set design for Sex and the City movie
Sex and the City production designer Jeremy Conway was responsible for all the interior looks on the show and in the film. Years ago, his "first real paying job" was as an art director for the NBC soap opera ANOTHER WORLD.
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Maeve Kinkead (Vanessa, GUIDING LIGHT; ex-Angie, ANOTHER WORLD) - 62
Nick Scotti (ex-Tony, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 42
Ara Celi (ex-Raquel, ALL MY CHILDREN) - 34
Matt Cavenaugh (ex-Adam, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Mark ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 30
Meredith Hagner (Liberty, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 21
Nick Scotti (ex-Tony, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 42
Ara Celi (ex-Raquel, ALL MY CHILDREN) - 34
Matt Cavenaugh (ex-Adam, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Mark ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 30
Meredith Hagner (Liberty, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 21
Friday, May 30, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
InTurn Season 3 Episode 14: ATWT Taping - Michael
Michael tapes his episode of As the World Turns and finds himself shirtless in the middle of Times Square. Will Michael be your next InTurn? The power is up to you, as voting begins, June 5th on CBS.com.
REVIEW: Larry Bryggman in Edward Albee's "Occupant"
A portrait of the late, legendary artist Louise Nevelson is created by her longtime friend — Edward Albee — in the Signature Theatre Company's world premiere, Edward Albee's Occupant, starring Larry Bryggman (ex-John, AS THE WORLD TURNS) and Mercedes Ruehl.
This new staging is directed by Pam MacKinnon, who staged Albee's Peter and Jerry at Second Stage. Albee has said there has not been any rewriting in the part of the reporter, who is now played by an older actor.
According to Signature, "Edward Albee's Occupant is a portrait of acclaimed sculptor Louise Nevelson and a quest to capture a charismatic and complex artist and persona. What is the relationship between creator and creation? Who was Louise Nevelson? Only she knew."
I thought both Bryggman and Ruehl play their parts beautifully and realistically but at times, the show seemed to drag. I'm not sure what more the two actors could have done to make this script more intertaining. It was a fascinating character piece, but the entertainment value was not what I was expecting based on the two actors involved.
GRADE: C
This new staging is directed by Pam MacKinnon, who staged Albee's Peter and Jerry at Second Stage. Albee has said there has not been any rewriting in the part of the reporter, who is now played by an older actor.
According to Signature, "Edward Albee's Occupant is a portrait of acclaimed sculptor Louise Nevelson and a quest to capture a charismatic and complex artist and persona. What is the relationship between creator and creation? Who was Louise Nevelson? Only she knew."
I thought both Bryggman and Ruehl play their parts beautifully and realistically but at times, the show seemed to drag. I'm not sure what more the two actors could have done to make this script more intertaining. It was a fascinating character piece, but the entertainment value was not what I was expecting based on the two actors involved.
GRADE: C
Out on the Town - May 28, 2008
Former GENERATIONS and LOVING actress and current GOSSIP GIRL star Kelly Rutherford spoke on stage during the 33rd Annual American Women In Radio & Television Gracie Allen Awards at the Marriott Marquis in New York City.
News Brief
VIVA HOLLYWOOD winner Berto Colón trashes VH1 show and guests on ATWTBerto Colón is mad at VH1’s VIVA HOLLYWOOD even though he was named last Sunday the reality show’s first Número Uno Telenovela Star. Colón, a 35-year-old Puerto-Rican bartender who lives in the Bronx, was the only of 12 contestants to survive the seven deadly sins of telenovelas — passion, lust, charisma, drama, fire, seduction and scandal.
"I am completely overjoyed. It’s almost unbelievable," said Colón.
But his win, which includes a breakout role on an upcoming Telemundo telenovela, didn’t come without its share of personal drama.
Colón says the show’s producers made it seem like he was doing more than laying in bed with fellow-contestant Giselle. "I never touched that girl," Colón says.
"They didn’t accurately portray that I was just lying there and that really pissed me off. I have a 10 year relationship that I’ve worked hard to have. I’m certainly not going on national television to humiliate the love of my life."
Colón is currently shooting in Brooklyn a guest role on CBS’s “As the World Turns,” which will air on July 3 (the same day as Cyndi Lauper's guest appearance)
AUDIO: Interview with GH's Megan Ward
Megan Ward stopped by "Buzzworthy Radio" last night to discuss her role as Kate on GENERAL HOSPITAL and talk with fans.
PROJECT RUNWAY contestant to create Heather Tom's Emmy gown
Season 4 PROJECT RUNWAY contestant Jack Mackenroth, who admitted to being HIV positive, has been asked by actress Heather Tom to design her gown for the Daytime Emmy Awards. Mackenroth had stepped down as a contestant on the hit TV show for medical reasons. He stayed on the show for only 5 episodes but that was enough for Tom to be impressed with his designs.
Tom, 32, has asked the designer to create a couture gown for her to wear on the awards show on June 20. She is nominated for the Outstanding Supporting Actress category for her role in THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL as Katie Logan.
After the awards show, the dress will then be auctioned off to benefit AIDS charities and to promote National HIV Testing Day.
Tom's rep has been quoted by showbizspy.com as saying, "Heather wanted to do something special to celebrate her 12th nomination and met with Mackenroth to have him design a one-of-a-kind gown for her Emmy moment."
"The pair also decided to help their many friends with HIV, and auction the dress off to benefit three HIV/AIDS charities - amfAR, National Association of People with AIDS, and San Antonio AIDS Foundation."
Tom adds, "We both wanted to make this more than just an evening gown - we wanted to make a statement."
Mackenroth has been HIV positive for 17 years since his diagnosis in 1990. He is currently working on his memoir.
Massage skills make Chris Brazier a hit with RIVER CITY castRIVER CITY hunk Chris Brazier has a secret talent that makes him incredibly popular with his fellow actors.
The 28-year-old former Dream Team star is a trained sports therapist and masseur, but his skills are only ever called upon these days by tense and aching cast members.
He said: "It does make me popular with other actors, especially when I am doing a play. When I am not on stage, you can usually find me in the wings giving someone a massage, but that's the only time I really use it these days. I only did it to give myself a way of funding my way through drama school and because it is always good to have something to fall back on. By the time I had finished my A Levels, I knew I wanted to become an actor. But as all my friends were away travelling and things, I decided to stay on at college for a while and do a qualification in sports therapy and massage to give me a way of earning some cash. Thankfully, I think my acting career is now well enough established that I won't need it again, except to help other actors, that is."
WHERE ARE THEY NOW: Former DAYS star Mike Farrell
In 1968, Farrell debuted on DAYS OF OUR LIVES, turning a recurring architect character into a steady two-year role that would land him a lead role on the CBS medical drama THE INTERNS. With his political conscious steadily growing, Farrell insisted his hospital character wear a peace sign, which pushed the envelope for a 1971 primetime show.
THE INTERNS only lasted two years, though Farrell impressed CBS officials, who hired him as a replacement for the disgruntled Wayne Rogers for season four of the hit show M*A*S*H.
The "Real" Euthanasiast?
In "The Euthanasiast," Monika Schneider stars as the mysterious euthanasiast whose testimonials illuminate her relationship to the living and those who wish to die. Schneider recently replaced ALL MY CHILDREN actress Sabine Singh in the role of the euthanasiast. Singh, who departed the production due to scheduling conflicts, had originally been announced to appear in the title role.
EVENT: Health fair to feature soap-opera star visit
Venezuelan soap-opera sensation Ricardo Garcia will be in Town Square on May 31 to host the Spring Fest and Health Fair, the first of its kind aimed at bringing medical screening and advice to elderly minorities in town.
Amid the entertainment from Garcia, a disc jockey and various musical groups, rows of tables and mobile labs will be stationed to provide free screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, skin analysis, bone density and dental health.
Lynette Whiteman of Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey said enough materials for 300 people will be available, though a turnout estimate is impossible.
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Anthony Geary (Luke, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-George, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 61
Tracey E. Bregman (Lauren, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS; ex-Lauren, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL; ex-Donna, DAYS OF OUR LIVES) - 45
Kristen Alderson (Starr, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 17
Tracey E. Bregman (Lauren, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS; ex-Lauren, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL; ex-Donna, DAYS OF OUR LIVES) - 45
Kristen Alderson (Starr, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 17
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Charles Pratt, Jr. Named 'All My Children' Head Writer and Consulting Producer
Brian Frons, president, Daytime, Disney-ABC Television Group announced today that Emmy Award-winning writer Charles Pratt, Jr. will serve as head writer and consulting producer for ABC's Emmy Award-winning Daytime Drama, All My Children. Pratt will begin on June 23, 2008."Charles Pratt, Jr. is a master storyteller. His talents in writing today's biggest primetime hits in conjunction with his vast experience with daytime dramas will undoubtedly elevate All My Children stories in new and exciting directions," Frons said in the press release announcing the hire..
"I am incredibly excited to welcome Chuck as headwriter of All My Children. I look forward to his contemporary storytelling sensibility, his warmth and sense of humor enriching the entire canvas of Pine Valley," added executive producer Julie Hanan Carruthers.
Pratt. served as co-head writer of General Hospital from 2002-2006. His additional TV credits include ABC's hit primetime series Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty, in addition to Melrose Place, Titans, Manchester Prep, Sunset Beach, Pacific Palisades, Models, Inc., Life Goes On, Gabriel's Fire and Santa Barbara. His film credits include The Initiation and A Cry for Angels.
Pratt currently has two primetime pilots in the works.
Evening News
Cyndi Lauper visits Oakdale"I think they're young, these guys, and they're sweet," Lauper tells Entertainment Weekly. "They're taking their time and struggling with the heart issues, which is even more endearing than just being like the straight couples, half-naked and having sex all over the place. The best way to people is through the heart, and that's why I think it's kind of interesting the way they've done it. It's about love."
Cyndi Lauper helps Luke and Noah celebrate Gay Pride with a visit to ATWT
Lauper will be performing a few songs at Yo's, the Oakdale dive bar that for this particular occasion has been gussied up for a little celebration known as "Gay Pride." Luke interviews Cyndi for Oakdale U's paper and the boys enjoy a few performances.
GUIDING LIGHT star weighs in on weight loss story
Caitlin Van Zandt tells TV Guide: "I don't know why it's such a taboo topic, but it is! I'm always reading articles where celebrities talk about everything from their drug rehab stints to the people they've slept with, yet I've gotten flack on the internet for doing the Lap-Band as if I'm somehow being a bad role model. A lot of the fans relate to me because I'm real looking — which I think is wonderful — but they also had this predisposed notion that I was proud of the way I looked. The truth is, I've been self-conscious about my weight since I was a kid. I haven't worn a bathing suit since I was six — we even used that as a line on the show."
EVENT: ABC soap stars at CMA Festival
On Friday, June 6, Field and Stream will hold their Total Outdoorsman Challenge local and regional qualifying events in the Chevy Sports Zone at the 2008 CMA Music Festival. ALL MY CHILDREN star Aiden Turner and GENERAL HOSPITAL star Bradford Anderson are among the celebrities participating.
BLOG UPDATE: Soap Opera Digest's Lauren Flynn
"Talk about old home week in Llanview! I just got off the phone with Andrea Evans to discuss her upcoming return as OLTL's Tina. And before that, I spoke with Susan Haskell about returning to the role of Marty! Could you imagine? I grew up in awe of those two powerhouses and it is just the strangest thing to hear their voices on the other line. As I spoke with Evans, whose voice was as chipper and fast-paced as ever, it was so hard not to picture the actress whose various hairstyles have been chronicled in this magazine. Who didn't watch OLTL in the '80s and want hair down to their butt like Tina? As for Haskell, her voice was a bit scratchier than I remembered, but I take it being a mom of two and acting on a regular basis for the first time in years has her a little bit exhausted. Plus, I spoke with the voice of all voices John Loprieno (ex-Cord) yesterday for a separate story and he informed me that he'd just received a Distinguished Alumni award from his alma mater, Harper College."
AFTRA Deal With AMPTP Caves On Clips
"The AFTRA-AMPTP deal closed very early this morning. AFTRA gave away major concessions when it came to the all-important clips issue by failing to do the heavy-lifting negotiating with the AMPTP and thus leaving all the power over it with the moguls for the next 3 years (and probably in perpetuity)."
Cyndi Lauper to Perform on ATWT
Grammy Award winner Cyndi Lauper will appear as herself on AS THE WORLD TURNS on July 3rd. She'll be singing "Into The Nightlife" off her new album (released yesterday, the day she taped her ATWT appearance) and her classic hit "True Colors."Lauper has an ATWT connection as she performed in "The Laramie Project" benefit in December 2006 in New York along with Van Hansis. This time around she will be performing at Yo's and share scenes with Luke and Noah.
Click here for more on Cyndi's new album, "Bring Ya To The Brink."
News Brief
TV Guide Canada's Most Improved in 2008
What a difference a year makes! Nelson Branco reveals which actors entered the big leagues this year with their never-before-seen acting prowess.
AFTRA deal still elusive
Even as insiders insisted that a deal was within reach, AFTRA and the majors continued to test the town's patience by going down to the wire after three weeks of talks.
With rival thesp union SAG champing at the bit to resume its negotiations at 10 a.m. today, AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture & Televison Producers had been widely expected to announce a tentative agreement Tuesday. Negotiators had worked for nine consecutive days, including well into evenings in recent sessions, to finalize details.
Instead, no deal had emerged as of late Tuesday amid a news blackout. Much of the negotiations have been devoted to a single issue -- the companies' proposal that actors agree to drop the consent requirement for online clips -- and momentum has stalled on small details in recent sessions.
Boyne City's Forester nominated for Daytime Emmy
Nicole Forester (aka Nicole Schmidt) never expected to find herself on daytime television but now she is a star of GUIDING LIGHT and has been nominated for a Daytime Emmy. Forester, 35, who is the daughter of Boyne City couple Fred and Yvonne Schmidt, first appeared on the CBS show in 2005 taking over the role of Cassie.
"Cassie is a pretty tough cookie. She’s very direct and passionate about her family and who she loves. I love that she (Cassie) is direct. She’s certainly not weak or afraid to speak her mind. It’s wonderful when you get to play a character who is written to be strong and direct."
INTERVIEW: Former ALL MY CHILDREN star Julia Barr
"I left the show because they were not using me and as they were taking actors off contract and offering them recurring status, I felt that the best thing for me personally and for the character was to make a clean brake and move forward after a great 30 years. Of course I miss AMC but the people who I miss most, I am still in touch with."
The Nuke Fancast debuts Saturday at Noon ET
This new podcast is brought to you by and for fans of the romantic pairing of Luke Snyder & Noah Mayer from the CBS daytime drama, AS THE WORLD TURNS.
EASTENDERS star in pigeon rescue
Samantha Janus is best known for playing feisty Ronnie Mitchell on EASTENDERS, but in real life the actress is a bit of a softie. She apparently told the Beeb how she took care of an injured racing pigeon in between takes on the BBC One soap.
"The poor thing was limping around the set of Albert Square," she said. "He was not only tired, but injured too. So I've taken care of him."
McKee hints at HOLLYOAKS departure
HOLLYOAKS actress Roxanne McKee has hinted that she may leave the soap when her current contract ends. The soap star, who plays Louise Summers, said that she would reconsider her future with the show in October.
"I'm not going to be there forever," McKee told Look magazine. "I don't mind the long hours but I'll have been doing that for four years in October when my contract ends."
FNL's Plemons stars in new NBC anthology series
Hanging suspended from the ceiling all night long might not appeal to your average actor. But the feat was freaky fun for Jesse Plemons (FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS), who stars in NBC's new horror anthology series FEAR ITSELF.
"I have a new respect for every actor that I’ve seen in a horror movie," Plemons says of his strung-up situation in THE SACRIFICE, the first of the series’ 13 stand-alone episodes, premiering June 5.
BLOG UPDATE: Former DAYS star and new mom Christie Clarke Barnes
"I never knew what sleep deprivation was until recently! All those cliches you hear over and over again are all true when it comes to having a child. Thank God, we have all these fantastic books to read over, ergonomic breast pumps to use,chlorine free diapers, strollers with two seats if you decide to have two children. My mom never had it so easy, that's for sure. I wonder what it will be like when Hannah is having children, my goodness the Jetsons here we come."
No slowing down Maura West's grandmother
The wavy gray hair and well-worn skin can't conceal the vitality 97-year-old Kathryn West may yet outlive. She won't be the fastest competitor in Saturday's 30th annual Freihofer's Run for Women. She won't even be running. She'll walk the 5K course, flanked by her personal trainer, Mary Rhinehardt, and almost certainly will finish last. Only the police car that sweeps the field will not pass Kay West.
Some people become more inflexible as they age. But West isn't like most people her age. On the computer West's three children bought her, she Googles and e-mails regularly. She travels frequently with her children, in recent years trekking to Hollywood (one of her 11 grandchildren, AS THE WORLD TURNS' Maura West, won a Daytime Emmy in 2007 for Outstanding Lead Actress), the Canadian Rockies and Ireland.
PROMO VIDEO: Tad and Dixie Reunite!
HOLLYOAKS' Atkinson encourages folks to adopt a chimp
Former HOLLYOAKS tar Gemma Atkinson has urged animal lovers to adopt a monkey or ape. The I'M A CELEBRITY contestant and her boyfriend Marcus Bent, who plays football for Wigan, went to visit the newest 'member of their family,' chimpanzee Bryan, at Monkey World near Wool, Dorset.
What a difference a year makes! Nelson Branco reveals which actors entered the big leagues this year with their never-before-seen acting prowess.
AFTRA deal still elusive
Even as insiders insisted that a deal was within reach, AFTRA and the majors continued to test the town's patience by going down to the wire after three weeks of talks.
With rival thesp union SAG champing at the bit to resume its negotiations at 10 a.m. today, AFTRA and the Alliance of Motion Picture & Televison Producers had been widely expected to announce a tentative agreement Tuesday. Negotiators had worked for nine consecutive days, including well into evenings in recent sessions, to finalize details.
Instead, no deal had emerged as of late Tuesday amid a news blackout. Much of the negotiations have been devoted to a single issue -- the companies' proposal that actors agree to drop the consent requirement for online clips -- and momentum has stalled on small details in recent sessions.
Boyne City's Forester nominated for Daytime Emmy
Nicole Forester (aka Nicole Schmidt) never expected to find herself on daytime television but now she is a star of GUIDING LIGHT and has been nominated for a Daytime Emmy. Forester, 35, who is the daughter of Boyne City couple Fred and Yvonne Schmidt, first appeared on the CBS show in 2005 taking over the role of Cassie.
"Cassie is a pretty tough cookie. She’s very direct and passionate about her family and who she loves. I love that she (Cassie) is direct. She’s certainly not weak or afraid to speak her mind. It’s wonderful when you get to play a character who is written to be strong and direct."
INTERVIEW: Former ALL MY CHILDREN star Julia Barr
"I left the show because they were not using me and as they were taking actors off contract and offering them recurring status, I felt that the best thing for me personally and for the character was to make a clean brake and move forward after a great 30 years. Of course I miss AMC but the people who I miss most, I am still in touch with."
The Nuke Fancast debuts Saturday at Noon ET This new podcast is brought to you by and for fans of the romantic pairing of Luke Snyder & Noah Mayer from the CBS daytime drama, AS THE WORLD TURNS.
EASTENDERS star in pigeon rescue
Samantha Janus is best known for playing feisty Ronnie Mitchell on EASTENDERS, but in real life the actress is a bit of a softie. She apparently told the Beeb how she took care of an injured racing pigeon in between takes on the BBC One soap.
"The poor thing was limping around the set of Albert Square," she said. "He was not only tired, but injured too. So I've taken care of him."
McKee hints at HOLLYOAKS departure
HOLLYOAKS actress Roxanne McKee has hinted that she may leave the soap when her current contract ends. The soap star, who plays Louise Summers, said that she would reconsider her future with the show in October.
"I'm not going to be there forever," McKee told Look magazine. "I don't mind the long hours but I'll have been doing that for four years in October when my contract ends."
FNL's Plemons stars in new NBC anthology series
Hanging suspended from the ceiling all night long might not appeal to your average actor. But the feat was freaky fun for Jesse Plemons (FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS), who stars in NBC's new horror anthology series FEAR ITSELF.
"I have a new respect for every actor that I’ve seen in a horror movie," Plemons says of his strung-up situation in THE SACRIFICE, the first of the series’ 13 stand-alone episodes, premiering June 5.
BLOG UPDATE: Former DAYS star and new mom Christie Clarke Barnes
"I never knew what sleep deprivation was until recently! All those cliches you hear over and over again are all true when it comes to having a child. Thank God, we have all these fantastic books to read over, ergonomic breast pumps to use,chlorine free diapers, strollers with two seats if you decide to have two children. My mom never had it so easy, that's for sure. I wonder what it will be like when Hannah is having children, my goodness the Jetsons here we come."
No slowing down Maura West's grandmother
The wavy gray hair and well-worn skin can't conceal the vitality 97-year-old Kathryn West may yet outlive. She won't be the fastest competitor in Saturday's 30th annual Freihofer's Run for Women. She won't even be running. She'll walk the 5K course, flanked by her personal trainer, Mary Rhinehardt, and almost certainly will finish last. Only the police car that sweeps the field will not pass Kay West.
Some people become more inflexible as they age. But West isn't like most people her age. On the computer West's three children bought her, she Googles and e-mails regularly. She travels frequently with her children, in recent years trekking to Hollywood (one of her 11 grandchildren, AS THE WORLD TURNS' Maura West, won a Daytime Emmy in 2007 for Outstanding Lead Actress), the Canadian Rockies and Ireland.
PROMO VIDEO: Tad and Dixie Reunite!
HOLLYOAKS' Atkinson encourages folks to adopt a chimp
Former HOLLYOAKS tar Gemma Atkinson has urged animal lovers to adopt a monkey or ape. The I'M A CELEBRITY contestant and her boyfriend Marcus Bent, who plays football for Wigan, went to visit the newest 'member of their family,' chimpanzee Bryan, at Monkey World near Wool, Dorset.
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Sally Stark (Trish, THE GUIDING LIGHT) - 70
Roger Newcomb (Mack, SCRIPTS & SCRUPLES) - 38
Alicia Minshew (Kendall, ALL MY CHILDREN) - 34
Emily O'Brien (Jana, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 23
Joseph Cross (ex-Casey, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 22
Roger Newcomb (Mack, SCRIPTS & SCRUPLES) - 38
Alicia Minshew (Kendall, ALL MY CHILDREN) - 34
Emily O'Brien (Jana, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 23
Joseph Cross (ex-Casey, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 22
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Evening News
New NIGHT SHIFT promises continuity with original GH
SOAPnet has picked up GENERAL HOSPITAL: NIGHT SHIFT for a second season to launch in July, after the General Hospital spin-off scored record ratings for the cabler in its first year.
As for changes, Season 2 will not only be shot in high definition, it will feature continuity between NIGHT SHIFT and the ABC mothership. (Good news for those who remember how the first time around, Jason was imprisoned during the "day" yet roaming about/playing hero at "night.") Characters from NIGHT SHIFT's first season will return, along with new players and "legacy characters" from ABC's long-running daytime drama.
Even more siginificant than the series attracting record numbers of viewers to SOAPnet was its No. 5 ranking among women 18-49 in all of basic cable for its timeslot, given the network's limited distribution.
BLOG UPDATE: Thorsten Kaye
"OK OK, so I know I said I’d get it up on Sunday afternoon, but things have gotten crazy with this series and I’ve been busy at work…but you know what? That’s just excuses. And in playoff hockey, there isn’t any room for excuses.
So without further adieu, here is the result of my one-on-one interview with Ted Lindsay, only one night before he and his fellow teammates were honored by the Detroit Red Wings and the NHL at a special Legends’ dinner on Sunday, May 25."
HOLLYOAKS video clip: The "Confession Time" update
BLOG UPDATE: Former soap writer Tom Casiello
"I'm a sucker for a good underdog story - who isn't? Which is probably why last week's episodes of ALL MY CHILDREN, leading up to Friday's CGI-infused, thrill-a-minute cliff-hanger, got me a little... am I really about to say this? Yes, in fact I am... EXCITED! And the weirdest part is, I have no idea who to thank."
GH Couple of Weeks in Review: Stupidity Is the Only Winner
Becca at Serial Drama writes: "Do you sometimes wonder whether GENERAL HOSPITAL is some kind of social experiment, in which we as viewers are being tested as to how much horribly crappy un-soapiness we can be subjected to without going postal and storming the studio? It seems like a risky strategy, but it makes far more sense than the alternative possibility, which is that there are people putting this show on the air who actually think it's good. I've exhausted so many adjectives describing GH in recent years, but my thesaurus is now empty. I'm just exhausted by the stupidity."
Former Y&R and current GOSSIP GIRL actor Penn Badgley tells everything he knows about sexy
BLOG UPDATE: Sarah A. Bibel
"Call me crazy, but I think most people who watch daytime soaps like daytime soaps. Anyone who is looking for primetime style entertainment in the afternoon need only flip the channel to cable. Everything from LAW & ORDER reruns to CHARMED is available. Unfortunately for daytime, a lot of viewers have made the switch. Those who have stuck around are fans of the genre. Instead of alienating them becoming a pale imitation of something else, I wish soaps would embrace their true nature. Soaps ratings were strong when the shows focused on slow-paced larger-than-life romances, and cliffhangers. There’s nothing wrong with that! My unsolicited advice to TPTB: take a cue from an old late night TV character, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE's Stuart Smalley. Look into a mirror and say to yourselves: 'I work for a soap opera… and that’s okay.'"
SOAPnet has picked up GENERAL HOSPITAL: NIGHT SHIFT for a second season to launch in July, after the General Hospital spin-off scored record ratings for the cabler in its first year.
As for changes, Season 2 will not only be shot in high definition, it will feature continuity between NIGHT SHIFT and the ABC mothership. (Good news for those who remember how the first time around, Jason was imprisoned during the "day" yet roaming about/playing hero at "night.") Characters from NIGHT SHIFT's first season will return, along with new players and "legacy characters" from ABC's long-running daytime drama.
Even more siginificant than the series attracting record numbers of viewers to SOAPnet was its No. 5 ranking among women 18-49 in all of basic cable for its timeslot, given the network's limited distribution.
BLOG UPDATE: Thorsten Kaye"OK OK, so I know I said I’d get it up on Sunday afternoon, but things have gotten crazy with this series and I’ve been busy at work…but you know what? That’s just excuses. And in playoff hockey, there isn’t any room for excuses.
So without further adieu, here is the result of my one-on-one interview with Ted Lindsay, only one night before he and his fellow teammates were honored by the Detroit Red Wings and the NHL at a special Legends’ dinner on Sunday, May 25."
HOLLYOAKS video clip: The "Confession Time" update
BLOG UPDATE: Former soap writer Tom Casiello
"I'm a sucker for a good underdog story - who isn't? Which is probably why last week's episodes of ALL MY CHILDREN, leading up to Friday's CGI-infused, thrill-a-minute cliff-hanger, got me a little... am I really about to say this? Yes, in fact I am... EXCITED! And the weirdest part is, I have no idea who to thank."
GH Couple of Weeks in Review: Stupidity Is the Only Winner
Becca at Serial Drama writes: "Do you sometimes wonder whether GENERAL HOSPITAL is some kind of social experiment, in which we as viewers are being tested as to how much horribly crappy un-soapiness we can be subjected to without going postal and storming the studio? It seems like a risky strategy, but it makes far more sense than the alternative possibility, which is that there are people putting this show on the air who actually think it's good. I've exhausted so many adjectives describing GH in recent years, but my thesaurus is now empty. I'm just exhausted by the stupidity."
Former Y&R and current GOSSIP GIRL actor Penn Badgley tells everything he knows about sexy
BLOG UPDATE: Sarah A. Bibel
"Call me crazy, but I think most people who watch daytime soaps like daytime soaps. Anyone who is looking for primetime style entertainment in the afternoon need only flip the channel to cable. Everything from LAW & ORDER reruns to CHARMED is available. Unfortunately for daytime, a lot of viewers have made the switch. Those who have stuck around are fans of the genre. Instead of alienating them becoming a pale imitation of something else, I wish soaps would embrace their true nature. Soaps ratings were strong when the shows focused on slow-paced larger-than-life romances, and cliffhangers. There’s nothing wrong with that! My unsolicited advice to TPTB: take a cue from an old late night TV character, SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE's Stuart Smalley. Look into a mirror and say to yourselves: 'I work for a soap opera… and that’s okay.'"
Mathison, Shepherd to host Two Hour Daytime Emmy Awards
Cameron Mathison (ALL MY CHILDREN and DANCING WITH THE STARS) and Sherri Shepherd (THE VIEW) have been tapped to host "The 35th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards," live from Hollywood's Kodak Theater, FRIDAY, JUNE 20 (8:00-10:00 p.m., ET -- tape-delayed to the West Coast) on ABC. The announcement was made today by Brian Frons, president, Daytime, Disney-ABC Television Group and executive producers Ricky Kirshner and Glenn Weiss. Frons also announced that the first episode of SOAPnet's new original scripted series, "MVP," which follows the on and off-the-ice drama surrounding the Mustangs hockey team and the women in their lives, will air on ABC at 10:00 p.m., immediately following the Daytime Emmys."Cameron and Sherri both have such an inviting way about them. Viewers will feel like they're in the Kodak and part of the excitement and enthusiasm surrounding this year's broadcast," said Frons. "They bring the perfect vibe to the celebratory atmosphere of this show." In commenting about "MVP," Frons said: "the Daytime Emmys are the perfect springboard into SOAPnet's new original series. We have a unique opportunity to leverage the strength of the division and showcase a great new dramatic series to a broad audience that loves serialized drama."
"We are excited to have two of the biggest supporters of daytime programming as our hosts," said Mr. Kirshner and Mr. Weiss. "The audience - both in the Kodak and at home - is in for a very entertaining evening, courtesy of Cameron and Sherri."
Mathison currently portrays Ryan Lavery on ABC's ALL MY CHILDREN, a role he created. He is also the host of SOAPnet's reality show I WANNA BE A SOAP STAR, and was featured as a celebrity dancer on the fifth season of ABC's hit competition series, DANCING WITH THE STARS.
Shepherd is a co-host of ABC's THE VIEW. In addition to stand-up shows and roles in several sitcoms, she had a regular supporting role in the ABC primetime comedy series LESS THAN PERFECT.
If you miss the June 19 premiere of SOAPnet's new original series "MVP," you can catch it on the ABC Television Network at 10:00 p.m., ET/PT on June 20, immediately following the two-hour Emmys broadcast. All-new episodes will premiere Thursdays at 11:00 p.m., on SOAPnet. The pilot episode, entitled "Game On," opens with a shocking tragedy with one of the team's star players and the aftermath that sends shock waves throughout the organization and his family. The series is produced by Screen Door Inc., with Mary Young Leckie and Heather Haldane serving as executive producers.
News Brief
Nashville talk show host to appear on ATWT todayTALK OF THE TOWN's Meryll Rose appears on AS THE WORLD TURNS today at 2 p.m. on her home station, WTVF. She was among a select group of local TV reporters who were invited to spend a few days on the set about three weeks ago.
"They asked if I wanted to do a walk-on while I was there," she says. "It was a blast.
"I really had no idea how fast the pace was when they are producing these things. They look at their scripts, do a quick rehearsal and lay it down on tape."
She shot her scene as a mall shopper three different ways. The director "told me the instructions for all three scenes all in a row. I said, 'Wait, wait, I don't think I know what I'm supposed to do.'
"I was a little nervous because it was out of my comfort zone, but I had a great time. It may be a blink on the air."
FOX 411: Beth Ehlers
"Back in 1991 I wrote about actress Beth Ehlers in Entertainment Weekly as a young star to watch from the CBS soap GUIDING LIGHT. Seventeen years later, she’s leaving the show for a new role on ABC's ALL MY CHILDREN. It’s clear she’s been forced out by the producers from Procter & Gamble, who are determined to drive the 71 year old soap into the ground. Ousting Ehlers — who fits the perfect demo of young mother in her 30s — shows that P&G will be shuttering GL soon. What a disrespectful ending for everyone involved."
Former ATWT actress Lea Salonga to perform in Seoul
Lea Salonga, Tony-award winning star of "Miss Saigon," will hold her first solo concert in Seoul on June 16. Salonga was the second actress to play Lien Hughes on AS THE WORLD TURNS.
DAYS star dreams of pizza
DAYS OF OUR LIVES actor Jay Kenneth Johnson looks forward to the next couple of days. He's not in any of the scenes being shot for the NBC daytime drama. That means he doesn't have to work.
"I am going home and eating a pizza," Johnson says with a smile.
He's joking. Sort of. One of the biggest draws of daytime television are the attractive young men and women who go through daily angst for the pleasure of viewers. And since DAYS OF OUR LIVES is the last daytime drama on the network, the show needs to keep all the viewers it can.
"I had to have my shirt off earlier in the week, so I watched what I ate last week and this week," Johnson says during an interview earlier this month in a small lunch area just steps from the show's sets.
Like so many daytime actors, Johnson left the daily grind in hopes of landing a role in a big movie or long-running prime-time series. He found it difficult.
"At the time I made the decision to leave I was younger, and I think I was at the crossroads where I at least needed to try it and see what happened," Johnson says. "I am happy where I am now."
HOLLYOAKS targeted for diploma publicity
The Government has been ciriticised for trying to promote new diploma qualifications through HOLLYOAKS. The Daily Telegraph reports that ministers discussed using the Channel 4 soap to make the courses - which combine academic studies and vocational training - seem "glamorous".
C4 wants 'HOLLYOAKS MUSIC SHOW' series
Channel 4 has given a provisional go-ahead for two series of the HOLLYOAKS spinoff live music show. The broadcaster wants the program, a pilot of which aired earlier this year, for its Saturday morning T4 block.
GREEK Recap 1.19 "A Tale of Two Parties"
"Back at OC Calvin finally finds Michael, where we find out the problem isn’t about a frat party or homophobia, its about an age difference. Calvin comments something about going and talking in a quiet corner and… KISS KISS, we have a kiss! And another, in the middle of the OC party. The first and second gay kiss in ABC Family history!"
InTurn Season 3 Episode 13: The Final Four
The remaining four fight for a spot in the final three as the last callback of InTurn unfolds. Who will move on to the next round where America decides the winner of InTurn?
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Mark Collier (ex-Mike, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-David, SUNSET BEACH) - 38
Marissa Tait (ex-Becky, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL) - 29
Marissa Tait (ex-Becky, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL) - 29
Monday, May 26, 2008
Gay Kiss on tonight's GREEK
Calvin (Paul James) gets his first kiss on tonight's episode on GREEK on ABC Family when he locks lips with Michael (Max Greenfield).
Linda Dano Home Collection Returns to QVC
Emmy Award-winning actress, talk-show host, designer and author Linda Dano is scheduled to return to QVC on Friday, June 6 from 9-10 AM (ET) to unveil the latest additions to the Linda Dano Home Collection.
With a commitment to leaving no home void of great design ideas, Dano will showcase a variety of home accessories that she says will meet the challenges of today’s complicated housing market.
"From coast to coast, people are preparing their homes. Some are 'staging' their homes to help sell in a competitive buyers’ market while others are redecorating their existing spaces. Many people have just moved into a new home and are on a tight budget. We have inventive solutions that meet all of these challenges to help design on a budget with practical elegance," says Dano.
Dano’s new pieces were designed to transform any home with modern, traditional or eclectic furniture into warm and functional spaces. As the author of Living Great (GP Putnams Sons) and a frequent contributor to The View, Dano has used her training and talents to create new spaces for private clients and celebrity friends. Now, with the new pieces that Dano is debuting for her line created especially for QVC, she is helping others as well.
Linda Dano blogs regularly on Home Design @ http://community.qvc.com/blog/Linda-Dano/3000000055
Linda Dano’s designs have been featured on QVC since 1993, with The Linda Dano Home Collection launching in 2007.
With a commitment to leaving no home void of great design ideas, Dano will showcase a variety of home accessories that she says will meet the challenges of today’s complicated housing market.
"From coast to coast, people are preparing their homes. Some are 'staging' their homes to help sell in a competitive buyers’ market while others are redecorating their existing spaces. Many people have just moved into a new home and are on a tight budget. We have inventive solutions that meet all of these challenges to help design on a budget with practical elegance," says Dano.
Dano’s new pieces were designed to transform any home with modern, traditional or eclectic furniture into warm and functional spaces. As the author of Living Great (GP Putnams Sons) and a frequent contributor to The View, Dano has used her training and talents to create new spaces for private clients and celebrity friends. Now, with the new pieces that Dano is debuting for her line created especially for QVC, she is helping others as well.
Linda Dano blogs regularly on Home Design @ http://community.qvc.com/blog/Linda-Dano/3000000055
Linda Dano’s designs have been featured on QVC since 1993, with The Linda Dano Home Collection launching in 2007.
News Brief
TV Guide Canada's weekly "Nelson Ratings"
Nelson Branco reports on last week's soap reviews, this week's viewing cheatsheet, and names his top-rated actors!
Changes For The Better(?) And Hot, Guilt-Inducing Sex!
In her new blog, former Y&R and AMC writer Sara A. Bibel writes: "Wednesday morning I posted that Young & The Restless needed to make some changes ASAP. Wednesday afternoon, former Days of Our Lives and As The World Turns headwriter Hogan Sheffer was appointed co-headwriter. I feel powerful. Sheffer is credited with leading ATWT into a golden era of Emmy dominance. His tenure at DOOL was characterized by low ratings and controversy. Sheffer is known for his witty dialogue and sophisticated camp, but maligned by some fans for his lack of attention to show history. I am cautiously optimistic that his sensibility will be a better fit for Y&R.
Y&R isn’t the only show changing its writing staff. All My Children just hired Chuck Pratt as its new head writer. Pratt’s credits include everything from a headwriting stint at General Hospital to consulting producer on Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty. Pratt replaces James Brown and Barbara Essensten, who managed to do the seemingly impossible – turn ABC’s flagship soap into the lowest rated daytime drama on the air. Pratt has his work cut out for him."
HOLLYOAKS star wants to film lesbian scene
HOLLYOAKS star Jennifer Metcalfe has revealed that she would be willing to film a lesbian sex scene. The actress, who plays Mercedes McQueen on the Channel 4 soap, said that playing a gay character could be a good career move.
"If the script was right I would do a lesbian sex scene," Jennifer told the Daily Star. "I'm not going to do it for the sake of it, obviously it has to be integral to the script, but if it felt right and the time was right in my career then yes, I would do it."
COUPLE'S CORNER: Van Hansis and Jake Silbermann
HOLLYOAKS soap stars raise £20000 for charity
Some of the UK's favorite television actors battled it out this weekend at the home of Chester FC in the Soapstar Football Challenge. Saturday’s home team was made up of Liverpool-based HOLLYOAKS stars including Chris Fountain, Ricky Whittle, Jamie Lomas and Nick Pickard.
Their opposite numbers were made up of stars from CORONATION STREET, EMMERDALE, CASUALTY, SHAMELSS and THE BILL including Ryan Thomas, Glen Lamont, James Redmond and Gary Lucy.
Captain and founder of the HOLLYOAKS team, Nick Pickard, who plays Tony in the soap, said: "Not only was the day and evening great fun, it’s also a fantastic opportunity for us to raise money for two worthwhile charities."
It was also a chance for fans to meet the stars.
HOLLYOAKS also held an evening of star-studded entertainment at a brand new venue within Chester Racecourse. Cast members, including CORONATION STREET's Kym Ryder, took to the stage for an evening of musical entertainment. The two events managed to raise £20,000 for the Alder Hey Imagine Appeal, and Claire House Children’s Hospice.
EASTENDERS - Michelle Ryan voted 'worst US accent'
Former EASTENDERS actress Michelle Ryan has topped a poll of the worst attempts at a US accent. Ryan, 24, recently starred as Jaime Sommers in the US show BIONIC WOMAN, before it was canceled after just one season due to the writers' strike.
Nelson Branco reports on last week's soap reviews, this week's viewing cheatsheet, and names his top-rated actors!
Changes For The Better(?) And Hot, Guilt-Inducing Sex!
In her new blog, former Y&R and AMC writer Sara A. Bibel writes: "Wednesday morning I posted that Young & The Restless needed to make some changes ASAP. Wednesday afternoon, former Days of Our Lives and As The World Turns headwriter Hogan Sheffer was appointed co-headwriter. I feel powerful. Sheffer is credited with leading ATWT into a golden era of Emmy dominance. His tenure at DOOL was characterized by low ratings and controversy. Sheffer is known for his witty dialogue and sophisticated camp, but maligned by some fans for his lack of attention to show history. I am cautiously optimistic that his sensibility will be a better fit for Y&R.
Y&R isn’t the only show changing its writing staff. All My Children just hired Chuck Pratt as its new head writer. Pratt’s credits include everything from a headwriting stint at General Hospital to consulting producer on Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty. Pratt replaces James Brown and Barbara Essensten, who managed to do the seemingly impossible – turn ABC’s flagship soap into the lowest rated daytime drama on the air. Pratt has his work cut out for him."
HOLLYOAKS star wants to film lesbian scene
HOLLYOAKS star Jennifer Metcalfe has revealed that she would be willing to film a lesbian sex scene. The actress, who plays Mercedes McQueen on the Channel 4 soap, said that playing a gay character could be a good career move.
"If the script was right I would do a lesbian sex scene," Jennifer told the Daily Star. "I'm not going to do it for the sake of it, obviously it has to be integral to the script, but if it felt right and the time was right in my career then yes, I would do it."
COUPLE'S CORNER: Van Hansis and Jake Silbermann
HOLLYOAKS soap stars raise £20000 for charity
Some of the UK's favorite television actors battled it out this weekend at the home of Chester FC in the Soapstar Football Challenge. Saturday’s home team was made up of Liverpool-based HOLLYOAKS stars including Chris Fountain, Ricky Whittle, Jamie Lomas and Nick Pickard.
Their opposite numbers were made up of stars from CORONATION STREET, EMMERDALE, CASUALTY, SHAMELSS and THE BILL including Ryan Thomas, Glen Lamont, James Redmond and Gary Lucy.
Captain and founder of the HOLLYOAKS team, Nick Pickard, who plays Tony in the soap, said: "Not only was the day and evening great fun, it’s also a fantastic opportunity for us to raise money for two worthwhile charities."
It was also a chance for fans to meet the stars.
HOLLYOAKS also held an evening of star-studded entertainment at a brand new venue within Chester Racecourse. Cast members, including CORONATION STREET's Kym Ryder, took to the stage for an evening of musical entertainment. The two events managed to raise £20,000 for the Alder Hey Imagine Appeal, and Claire House Children’s Hospice.
EASTENDERS - Michelle Ryan voted 'worst US accent'
Former EASTENDERS actress Michelle Ryan has topped a poll of the worst attempts at a US accent. Ryan, 24, recently starred as Jaime Sommers in the US show BIONIC WOMAN, before it was canceled after just one season due to the writers' strike.
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Genie Francis (ex-Laura, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-Ceara, ALL MY CHILDREN; ex-Diana, DAYS OF OUR LIVES) - 46
Tamara Clatterbuck (ex-Barb, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Alice, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 45
Tamara Clatterbuck (ex-Barb, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Alice, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 45
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Alison Sweeney at the Indy 500
Alison Sweeney of DAYS OF OUR LIVES attended the 92nd running of the Indianapolis 500 today at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
News Brief
SOAPnet swings into second NIGHT SHIFT
There will be a second shift for SOAPnet's GENERAL HOSPITAL spinoff series.
The 68.1-million subscriber SOAPnet has ordered 13 episodes of GENERAL HOSPITAL: NIGHT SHIFT, with production set to begin next month. Produced in high-definition this go round, the sophomore series, again shifting some storylines from its daytime progenitor to late night, will premiere Tuesdays at 11 p.m., starting July 22.
Drawing/sending viewers back and forth between the shows is emblematic of the ways Brian Frons, president, daytime, Disney ABC Television Group is leveraging the resources of the unit, comprising ABC Daytime, Buena Vista Productions and SoapNet, which was formed last May.
Frons said that while the second season of NIGHT SHIFT is being led by new executive producer Lisa De Cazotte (NBC'S PASSIONS, ABC'S ALL MY CHILDREN, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) and head writer Sri Rao (MTV'S WHAT GOES ON, off-Broadway's "Precipice"), they are sharing the acumen and advice of Robert Guza, Jr. and Jill Farren Phelps. The head writer and executive producer of GH, respectively, they served in those capacities for the first season of Night Shift as well.
"Sri has worked closely with Bob and Jill, scoping out where the storylines are going to be on General Hospital," said Frons. "One thing we heard from fans was that there were some disconnects. We’re working hard to make sure there will be more consistency tying the shows together better."
To that end, ABC has built Night Shift its own stage, but, when needed, it will transport sets from GENERAL HOSPITAL.
PHOTOS: Sexy Jake Silbermann
Several new photos of Jake Sibermann have been released online from DNA Model Management LLC. Silbermann, who turns 25 on June 1st, is approaching his one year anniversary on AS THE WORLD TURNS as Noah Mayer.
Before joining the cast of ATWT, Silbermann appeared in the play "Pinata" and played a bellhop on GUIDING LIGHT. He also starred in the student film, "Brunch of the Living Dead.". In late April, he made a guest appearance on The CW's GOSSIP GIRL.
Katy Perry to Perform on Y&R
The "I Kissed a Girl" singer will appear on the June 12 episode of THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS and will grace the cover of the soap's in-show fashion magazine, Restless Style.
INTERVIEW: John Enos and the sharks
John Enos III is best known for playing sharks named Bobby: He was Bobby Parezi on MELROSE PLACE and Bobby Marsino on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS. This summer, he is hanging with actual sharks. John plays Kane Marcus in SHARK SWARM, an original movie that premieres on the Hallmark Channel on Sunday night.
"I actually have some personality in this one," Enos says. "He’s a character. Since Lux doesn’t want to get his hands dirty, I get around a lot and get to
interact with most of the characters."
J. Byron, Artist Extraordinare
Jeffrey Byron, who lives in the Hills above Sunset in Hollywood with wife Lana and son Dimitry has found a new outlet to showcase his much talked about talent. Though he has spent most of his life in front of the camera - J. Byron has been a photographic artist for many years and has recorded images from all over the world. Recent trips to the Santa Barbara coastline and the island of Kauai inspired his latest collection, and his current quest is capturing the essence of the California desert. An avid golfer, Byron also brings his photographic sensibilities to the sport that symbolizes the surrounding area.
If he looks familiar it's because Jeffrey Byron the actor has been a recognizable figure in both movies and television. Jeffrey just landed a role in the newest Star Trek movie directed by JJ Abrams, of "Lost" fame. The newest Star Trek movie is scheduled to be in theatres in 2008. With contract roles on ONE LIFE TO LIVE and ALL MY CHILDREN, and recurring roles on THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL and PORT CHARLES, Jeffrey has made a contribution to the world of daytime dramas.
Jeffrey enjoys living in the Hollywood Hills and spends weekends in the desert, where he takes incredible photographs which are displayed on his website: www.jbyronphotoartist.com.
CORRIE star Michelle Keegan on her amazing rise to fame
On how she first met Jack P. Shepherd, who plays your CORONATION STREET boyfriend David Platt, at the airport where she worked: "I was a check-in girl and met him and his girlfriend as they flew to Florida. I was really star-struck when I saw him in the queue. Now two years on I'm playing his girlfriend."
There will be a second shift for SOAPnet's GENERAL HOSPITAL spinoff series.
The 68.1-million subscriber SOAPnet has ordered 13 episodes of GENERAL HOSPITAL: NIGHT SHIFT, with production set to begin next month. Produced in high-definition this go round, the sophomore series, again shifting some storylines from its daytime progenitor to late night, will premiere Tuesdays at 11 p.m., starting July 22.
Drawing/sending viewers back and forth between the shows is emblematic of the ways Brian Frons, president, daytime, Disney ABC Television Group is leveraging the resources of the unit, comprising ABC Daytime, Buena Vista Productions and SoapNet, which was formed last May.
Frons said that while the second season of NIGHT SHIFT is being led by new executive producer Lisa De Cazotte (NBC'S PASSIONS, ABC'S ALL MY CHILDREN, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) and head writer Sri Rao (MTV'S WHAT GOES ON, off-Broadway's "Precipice"), they are sharing the acumen and advice of Robert Guza, Jr. and Jill Farren Phelps. The head writer and executive producer of GH, respectively, they served in those capacities for the first season of Night Shift as well.
"Sri has worked closely with Bob and Jill, scoping out where the storylines are going to be on General Hospital," said Frons. "One thing we heard from fans was that there were some disconnects. We’re working hard to make sure there will be more consistency tying the shows together better."
To that end, ABC has built Night Shift its own stage, but, when needed, it will transport sets from GENERAL HOSPITAL.
PHOTOS: Sexy Jake SilbermannSeveral new photos of Jake Sibermann have been released online from DNA Model Management LLC. Silbermann, who turns 25 on June 1st, is approaching his one year anniversary on AS THE WORLD TURNS as Noah Mayer.
Before joining the cast of ATWT, Silbermann appeared in the play "Pinata" and played a bellhop on GUIDING LIGHT. He also starred in the student film, "Brunch of the Living Dead.". In late April, he made a guest appearance on The CW's GOSSIP GIRL.
Katy Perry to Perform on Y&R
The "I Kissed a Girl" singer will appear on the June 12 episode of THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS and will grace the cover of the soap's in-show fashion magazine, Restless Style.
INTERVIEW: John Enos and the sharks
John Enos III is best known for playing sharks named Bobby: He was Bobby Parezi on MELROSE PLACE and Bobby Marsino on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS. This summer, he is hanging with actual sharks. John plays Kane Marcus in SHARK SWARM, an original movie that premieres on the Hallmark Channel on Sunday night.
"I actually have some personality in this one," Enos says. "He’s a character. Since Lux doesn’t want to get his hands dirty, I get around a lot and get to
interact with most of the characters."
J. Byron, Artist Extraordinare
Jeffrey Byron, who lives in the Hills above Sunset in Hollywood with wife Lana and son Dimitry has found a new outlet to showcase his much talked about talent. Though he has spent most of his life in front of the camera - J. Byron has been a photographic artist for many years and has recorded images from all over the world. Recent trips to the Santa Barbara coastline and the island of Kauai inspired his latest collection, and his current quest is capturing the essence of the California desert. An avid golfer, Byron also brings his photographic sensibilities to the sport that symbolizes the surrounding area.
If he looks familiar it's because Jeffrey Byron the actor has been a recognizable figure in both movies and television. Jeffrey just landed a role in the newest Star Trek movie directed by JJ Abrams, of "Lost" fame. The newest Star Trek movie is scheduled to be in theatres in 2008. With contract roles on ONE LIFE TO LIVE and ALL MY CHILDREN, and recurring roles on THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL and PORT CHARLES, Jeffrey has made a contribution to the world of daytime dramas.
Jeffrey enjoys living in the Hollywood Hills and spends weekends in the desert, where he takes incredible photographs which are displayed on his website: www.jbyronphotoartist.com.
CORRIE star Michelle Keegan on her amazing rise to fame
On how she first met Jack P. Shepherd, who plays your CORONATION STREET boyfriend David Platt, at the airport where she worked: "I was a check-in girl and met him and his girlfriend as they flew to Florida. I was really star-struck when I saw him in the queue. Now two years on I'm playing his girlfriend."
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Patti D'Arbanville (ex-Selena, GUIDING LIGHT; ex-Christy, ANOTHER WORLD) - 57
Hillary B. Smith (Nora, ONE LIFE TO LIVE; ex-Margo, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Kit, THE DOCTORS) - 51
Hillary B. Smith (Nora, ONE LIFE TO LIVE; ex-Margo, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Kit, THE DOCTORS) - 51
Out on the Town - May 24, 2008
CEO / Founder of Niche Media Jason Binn, ALL MY CHILDREN star Susan Lucci, Beth Ostrosky and CEO of The Borgata Hotel Larry Mullin attended the Annual Hamptons Magazine Memorial Day Celebration with cover star Kim Cattrall in Southampton, New York.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Ali Sweeney attends Indy 500 Snake Pit Ball
Alison Sweeney of DAYS OF OUR LIVES attended the 92nd Running of the Indianapolis 500 Snake Pit Ball on Saturday at the Indiana Rooftop Ballroom in Indianapolis.
News Brief
Episode #4 of Eden Riegel's IMAGINARY BITCHES
B&B's Hunter Tylo turns tragedy into triumph
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL's Hunter Tylo (Taylor) is trying to turn tragedy into triumph. Tylo has joined forces with the newly organized American Epilepsy Outreach Foundation (AEOF), www.epilepsyoutreach.org, to help raise awareness of this neurological disorder that affects more than 3 million people in the United States and to educate the public on first aid for someone experiencing a seizure.
AUDIO: Interview with Thom Bierdz
Thom Bierdz (ex-Phillip, Y&R) appeared on "BuzzWorthy Radio" on Friday to talk about his latest projects, his book, "Forgiving Troy," and his days on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS.
AUDIO: Ex-B&B actor Constantin Maroulis interview
AMC's Kaye still blogging for the NHL playoffs
Thorsten Kaye grew up in Europe but earned a master's degree in theater and theater history at Wayne State in the early 1990s, portraying Macbeth and Mark Antony on stage at the Hilberry Theater. He's currently starring on ALL MY CHILDREN after stints on the sudsers ONE LIFE TO LIVE and PORT CHARLES. On the NHL website, he admits to being an NHL fan since... 2008.
Y&R's Linder supports the troops
Kate Linder (Esther, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) has visited troops in Afghanistan and other parts of the world. She says she is involved not because she supports the war, but because she supports the troops who are serving their country.
Cameron Mathison's YOUR PLACE OR MINE? promo
Former soap Costume Designer Peggy Higman opens store in South Dakota
"Ever since I was 13 and read Vogue, I knew I wanted my own store," Higman said. "I've always been into fashion. I moved to Los Angeles for a while and worked as a costumer in soap opera wardrobe departments. I worked as a costumer and on the set with actors for shows like PASSIONS, GENERAL HOSPITAL, and THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS While I lived there, I helped out with commercials here and there."
Gemma quitting EASTENDERS?
Gemma Bissix is reportedly set to quit EASTENDERS. Bissix, who plays Clare Bates in the Albert Square soap, only returned to the soap in February after a stint in HOLLYOAKS. A source told the Daily Mirror: "Clare has been working her way round the men of Walford for the past few months but what she had thought was a masterplan to bag the man of her dreams soon gets out of hand.
HOLLYOAKS' Michaela tries to get the scoop on John Paul and Kieron
New play by former OLTL writer
Najah Johnson, Eva Kaminsky, Trish McCall, Mark L. Montgomery, and Joel Rooks will star in Enid Rudd's "The Other Side of Newark," to run at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, June 19-29. The production will be directed by Pamela Berlin, with sets by Michael Schewikardt and costumes by Suzanne Chesney.
The autobiographically-based show, set in the 1930s and the 1980s, concerns a young Jewish school teacher who takes a position at a predominantly black school in Newark, who mentors a promising student from a poor home, who meet five decades later in a hopsital room. Rudd's other plays include "PeterPat" and "The Ashes of Mrs Reasoner," and she has been a staff writer for the ABC daytime drama ONE LIFE TO LIVE.
B&B's Hunter Tylo turns tragedy into triumph
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL's Hunter Tylo (Taylor) is trying to turn tragedy into triumph. Tylo has joined forces with the newly organized American Epilepsy Outreach Foundation (AEOF), www.epilepsyoutreach.org, to help raise awareness of this neurological disorder that affects more than 3 million people in the United States and to educate the public on first aid for someone experiencing a seizure.
AUDIO: Interview with Thom Bierdz
Thom Bierdz (ex-Phillip, Y&R) appeared on "BuzzWorthy Radio" on Friday to talk about his latest projects, his book, "Forgiving Troy," and his days on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS.
AUDIO: Ex-B&B actor Constantin Maroulis interview
AMC's Kaye still blogging for the NHL playoffs
Thorsten Kaye grew up in Europe but earned a master's degree in theater and theater history at Wayne State in the early 1990s, portraying Macbeth and Mark Antony on stage at the Hilberry Theater. He's currently starring on ALL MY CHILDREN after stints on the sudsers ONE LIFE TO LIVE and PORT CHARLES. On the NHL website, he admits to being an NHL fan since... 2008.
Y&R's Linder supports the troops
Kate Linder (Esther, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) has visited troops in Afghanistan and other parts of the world. She says she is involved not because she supports the war, but because she supports the troops who are serving their country.
Cameron Mathison's YOUR PLACE OR MINE? promo
Former soap Costume Designer Peggy Higman opens store in South Dakota
"Ever since I was 13 and read Vogue, I knew I wanted my own store," Higman said. "I've always been into fashion. I moved to Los Angeles for a while and worked as a costumer in soap opera wardrobe departments. I worked as a costumer and on the set with actors for shows like PASSIONS, GENERAL HOSPITAL, and THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS While I lived there, I helped out with commercials here and there."
Gemma quitting EASTENDERS?
Gemma Bissix is reportedly set to quit EASTENDERS. Bissix, who plays Clare Bates in the Albert Square soap, only returned to the soap in February after a stint in HOLLYOAKS. A source told the Daily Mirror: "Clare has been working her way round the men of Walford for the past few months but what she had thought was a masterplan to bag the man of her dreams soon gets out of hand.
HOLLYOAKS' Michaela tries to get the scoop on John Paul and Kieron
New play by former OLTL writer
Najah Johnson, Eva Kaminsky, Trish McCall, Mark L. Montgomery, and Joel Rooks will star in Enid Rudd's "The Other Side of Newark," to run at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, June 19-29. The production will be directed by Pamela Berlin, with sets by Michael Schewikardt and costumes by Suzanne Chesney.
The autobiographically-based show, set in the 1930s and the 1980s, concerns a young Jewish school teacher who takes a position at a predominantly black school in Newark, who mentors a promising student from a poor home, who meet five decades later in a hopsital room. Rudd's other plays include "PeterPat" and "The Ashes of Mrs Reasoner," and she has been a staff writer for the ABC daytime drama ONE LIFE TO LIVE.
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Steve Carlson (ex-Jeffrey, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Josh, A NEW DAY IN EDEN; ex-Gary, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-Mark, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 65
Friday, May 23, 2008
Evening News
Y&R: Sabrina's Mom, Take Two
Cynthia Sikes has been cast as Sabrina's mother, Zara, on YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS. She'll start taping May 27. Zara is set to arrive in Genoa City on June 19, in time for her daughter's wedding to Victor. Y&R had to do some quick recasting as Finola Hughes (Anna, GH) was all set to do the role, but GH asked her not to.
Daytime Nielsen Ratings Week of May 12-16, 2008
From the ABC daytime ratings release:
* The No. 1 network in Daytime, ABC generated its best ratings in Women 18-34 in 11 weeks (1.0/320,000 - tied in rating, since week of 2/25/08) and in 5 weeks in Women 18-49 (1.4 rating/930,000 - tied in rating, since week of 4/7/08).
* For the 11th week in a row, "General Hospital" scored Daytime's No. 1 position in Women 18-34 (1.1 rating).
* "One Life to Live" delivered its best numbers in more than 8 months in Women 18-34 (330,000 - since week of 9/24/07) and in more than 3 months in Women 18-49 (955,000 - since week of 2/18/08) the Week of Star's Pregnancy Fallout and Rex and Adrianna's Wedding.
* In Women 18-49, ABC owned 3 of Daytime's Top 5 programs for the 5th straight week: "General Hospital" (No. 2, 1.6 rating/1.0 million), "One Life to Live" (No. 3T, 1.4 rating/955,000) and "The View" (No. 3T, 1.4 rating/909,000).
* In Women 18-34, ABC delivered 3 of Daytime's Top 5 programs for the 5th consecutive week: "General Hospital" (No. 1, 1.1 rating/359,000), "One Life to Live" (No. 2T, 1.0 rating/330,000) and "The View" (No. 2T, 1.0 rating/328,000).
* "General Hospital" more than doubled CBS' "Guiding Light" in the 3 o'clock hour in Women 18-34 (108% - 359,000 vs. 173,000), and topped the time period competitor by 54% in Women 18-49 (1.04 million vs. 674,000) and by 24% in Total Viewers (2.95 million vs. 2.38 million).
Following are the Daytime Lineup averages, plus Top 5 Programs Ranks - Week of May 12, 2008:
Top 5 Daytime Programs in Women 18-49 (rank based on rating)
DAYS renewed?
"DAYS fans can breath a big sigh of relief. According to Soap Opera Digest, the 42 year old soap has been renewed by NBC."
AMC's Leven Rambin for John McCain?
Having just recently become a legal voter (and approved sexual being) when she turned 18, the soap star/socialite's thoughts have naturally turned to politics. Which candidate, after much thorough research and contemplation, has she allied with? McCain of course, because the old timer mumbled and yukked his way into her heart with his recent SNL appearance. She called him "shockingly coherent and comical" in a little blog post.
Heather Tom takes "Bold and Beautiful" step for charity
While some folks take the shirt off their backs to help those in need, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL's Heather Tom is taking it one step further. To celebrate her 12th Daytime Emmy nomination, Tom has asked PROJECT RUNWAY's Jack Mackenroth to design a one-of-a-kind gown that she'll auction off after donning it for the the kudoscast (airing June 20, on ABC). The proceeds will benefit AIDS charities. The auction, hosted by the Clothes Off Our Back Foundation, kicks off June 27, aka National HIV Testing Day.
Liveblogging ATWT: Escape From New York!
AfterElton's live recap of Friday's episode of AS THE WORLD TURNS.
Alison Sweeney will attend Indy 500
Celebrities from the silver screen, television and music once again will flock to Indianapolis this weekend for the 92nd Indianapolis 500 and events surrounding the race including Alison Sweeney from DAYS OF OUR LIVES.
DAYS to air during Olympics
DAYS OF OUR LIVES will air during the Summer Olympics this year, unlike 2004, when the show was preempted for two straight weeks. Be on the lookout though, as many affiliates will be airing DAYS during different time periods from August 11-August 22, 2008.
Cynthia Sikes has been cast as Sabrina's mother, Zara, on YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS. She'll start taping May 27. Zara is set to arrive in Genoa City on June 19, in time for her daughter's wedding to Victor. Y&R had to do some quick recasting as Finola Hughes (Anna, GH) was all set to do the role, but GH asked her not to.
Daytime Nielsen Ratings Week of May 12-16, 2008
From the ABC daytime ratings release:
* The No. 1 network in Daytime, ABC generated its best ratings in Women 18-34 in 11 weeks (1.0/320,000 - tied in rating, since week of 2/25/08) and in 5 weeks in Women 18-49 (1.4 rating/930,000 - tied in rating, since week of 4/7/08).
* For the 11th week in a row, "General Hospital" scored Daytime's No. 1 position in Women 18-34 (1.1 rating).
* "One Life to Live" delivered its best numbers in more than 8 months in Women 18-34 (330,000 - since week of 9/24/07) and in more than 3 months in Women 18-49 (955,000 - since week of 2/18/08) the Week of Star's Pregnancy Fallout and Rex and Adrianna's Wedding.
* In Women 18-49, ABC owned 3 of Daytime's Top 5 programs for the 5th straight week: "General Hospital" (No. 2, 1.6 rating/1.0 million), "One Life to Live" (No. 3T, 1.4 rating/955,000) and "The View" (No. 3T, 1.4 rating/909,000).
* In Women 18-34, ABC delivered 3 of Daytime's Top 5 programs for the 5th consecutive week: "General Hospital" (No. 1, 1.1 rating/359,000), "One Life to Live" (No. 2T, 1.0 rating/330,000) and "The View" (No. 2T, 1.0 rating/328,000).
* "General Hospital" more than doubled CBS' "Guiding Light" in the 3 o'clock hour in Women 18-34 (108% - 359,000 vs. 173,000), and topped the time period competitor by 54% in Women 18-49 (1.04 million vs. 674,000) and by 24% in Total Viewers (2.95 million vs. 2.38 million).
Following are the Daytime Lineup averages, plus Top 5 Programs Ranks - Week of May 12, 2008:
Daytime Rank: Total Viewers Women 18-49 (Rtg/000s)
No. 1 CBS 3.67 million No. 1 ABC 1.4/930,000
No. 2 ABC 2.93 million No. 1 NBC 1.4/918,000
No. 3 NBC 2.91 million No. 3 CBS 1.3/851,000
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 1.6/1.04 million
One Life to Live ABC 1.4/955,000
Days of Our Lives NBC 1.4/918,000
The View ABC 1.4/909,000
Bold and the Beautiful CBS 1.4/903,000
DAYS renewed?
"DAYS fans can breath a big sigh of relief. According to Soap Opera Digest, the 42 year old soap has been renewed by NBC."
AMC's Leven Rambin for John McCain?
Having just recently become a legal voter (and approved sexual being) when she turned 18, the soap star/socialite's thoughts have naturally turned to politics. Which candidate, after much thorough research and contemplation, has she allied with? McCain of course, because the old timer mumbled and yukked his way into her heart with his recent SNL appearance. She called him "shockingly coherent and comical" in a little blog post.
Heather Tom takes "Bold and Beautiful" step for charity
While some folks take the shirt off their backs to help those in need, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL's Heather Tom is taking it one step further. To celebrate her 12th Daytime Emmy nomination, Tom has asked PROJECT RUNWAY's Jack Mackenroth to design a one-of-a-kind gown that she'll auction off after donning it for the the kudoscast (airing June 20, on ABC). The proceeds will benefit AIDS charities. The auction, hosted by the Clothes Off Our Back Foundation, kicks off June 27, aka National HIV Testing Day.
Liveblogging ATWT: Escape From New York!
AfterElton's live recap of Friday's episode of AS THE WORLD TURNS.
Alison Sweeney will attend Indy 500
Celebrities from the silver screen, television and music once again will flock to Indianapolis this weekend for the 92nd Indianapolis 500 and events surrounding the race including Alison Sweeney from DAYS OF OUR LIVES.
DAYS to air during Olympics
DAYS OF OUR LIVES will air during the Summer Olympics this year, unlike 2004, when the show was preempted for two straight weeks. Be on the lookout though, as many affiliates will be airing DAYS during different time periods from August 11-August 22, 2008.
Manhattanites After Party
I had a wonderful time at the second night of screening for my film, Manhattanites. Here's a shot from the after part at Mixx Lounge with my dear friend Anne Sayre (ex-Mitzi, ATWT). I'll post a full recap with pictures later today.
News Brief
Nelson Branco's weekly "Suds Report"
Finola-gate: Y&R/GH Hughes battle! Grant Aleksander on OLTL? Hogan Sheffer joins Y&R! AMC writer shake-up! Plus: Days renewed!
Y&R: Car accident and flashback make Nick 'Restless'
Nick has a car accident next week on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, which leads to his getting back his memory.
"Phyllis goes to the hospital and he says, 'I'm fine,' but he's being distant," says Michelle Stafford, who plays Nick's current wife. "Phyllis is thinking, 'Oh, he hit his head again. He's forgotten me.'"
Since Nick lost his memory in a plane crash two years ago, that's not a bad assumption.
INTERVIEW: A conversation with Susan Lucci
On if she ever imagined the kind of longevity she's had playing Erica Kane: "Oh my goodness no. I mean, even now that's a very scary, big number, and it doesn't seem possible. No, I mean, my first contract was for three years, and that seemed an enormously long time to me. So, no, I did not. But it's been great for me, and to me, in every way I can think of."
Christie Clark Barnes says life with baby is 'richer and more precious'
When it comes to motherhood, "all the cliches are true,"actress Christie Clark Barnes recently told Mom To Be Depot. Since welcoming daughter Hanna Bella in early March, life has become "richer and more precious," and Christie -- who once starred on DAYS OF OUR LIVES -- said that she's hoping the good vibes will rub off on her career.
More from SoapFest 2008
"SoapFest turned out to be a blast, the actors (from AS THE WORLD TURNS, GUIDING LIGHT and ALL MY CHILDREN) were fabulously friendly and happily posed for pictures, signed autographs and clearly enjoyed hanging out with fans."
Mary Beth Evans uses award winning pie box
Display Pack Inc., an award-winning manufacturer of Single Source Solutions™ packaging services, was presented with two Ameristar awards – one award being the
"People’s Choice Award" – at this year’s International Organization of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) Package Competition in Rosemont, Ill.
Display Pack won the awards for its cutting-edge design of a pie box created for Mary Beth's Apple Pie Co., a gourmet, mail-order pie company owned by actress Mary Beth Evans, who stars as Kayla Brady on DAYS OF OUR LIVES. These are the company’s second and third consecutive awards from IoPP, the industry’s top organization dedicated to the packaging profession.
AUDIO: Daytime Confidential #244: Mimi Torchin Interview
Mimi Torchin is making the rounds this week. Here she stops by the "Daytime Confidential" podcast to talk about her days at Soap Opera Weekly and her many experiences in the soap world over the years.
GH's Monstrous Lies, AMC's Truthful Memories
The fabulous Marlena De Lacroix writes her "nastiest" article ever! Here's an excerpt: "Yesterday, I was trying to write my long promised column against the most perversely inhuman, possibly most disturbing soap storyline of all time, but the words just would not come out. I’m talking about the GENERAL HOSPITAL storyline written by Bob Guza that began with 12-year-old Michael getting shot in the head and climaxed with his parents Sonny and Carly screwing in the back seat of a limo after delivering their comatose son toAMC trio a long-term care facility. That I felt paralyzed and couldn’t write was very odd because I’d been angrily 'writing' the words of the column every day in my head since that day six weeks ago when a shot meant for Sonny rang out in the coffee warehouse and mistakenly hit Michael."
Finola-gate: Y&R/GH Hughes battle! Grant Aleksander on OLTL? Hogan Sheffer joins Y&R! AMC writer shake-up! Plus: Days renewed!
Y&R: Car accident and flashback make Nick 'Restless'
Nick has a car accident next week on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, which leads to his getting back his memory.
"Phyllis goes to the hospital and he says, 'I'm fine,' but he's being distant," says Michelle Stafford, who plays Nick's current wife. "Phyllis is thinking, 'Oh, he hit his head again. He's forgotten me.'"
Since Nick lost his memory in a plane crash two years ago, that's not a bad assumption.
INTERVIEW: A conversation with Susan Lucci
On if she ever imagined the kind of longevity she's had playing Erica Kane: "Oh my goodness no. I mean, even now that's a very scary, big number, and it doesn't seem possible. No, I mean, my first contract was for three years, and that seemed an enormously long time to me. So, no, I did not. But it's been great for me, and to me, in every way I can think of."
Christie Clark Barnes says life with baby is 'richer and more precious'
When it comes to motherhood, "all the cliches are true,"actress Christie Clark Barnes recently told Mom To Be Depot. Since welcoming daughter Hanna Bella in early March, life has become "richer and more precious," and Christie -- who once starred on DAYS OF OUR LIVES -- said that she's hoping the good vibes will rub off on her career.
More from SoapFest 2008
"SoapFest turned out to be a blast, the actors (from AS THE WORLD TURNS, GUIDING LIGHT and ALL MY CHILDREN) were fabulously friendly and happily posed for pictures, signed autographs and clearly enjoyed hanging out with fans."
Mary Beth Evans uses award winning pie box
Display Pack Inc., an award-winning manufacturer of Single Source Solutions™ packaging services, was presented with two Ameristar awards – one award being the
"People’s Choice Award" – at this year’s International Organization of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) Package Competition in Rosemont, Ill.
Display Pack won the awards for its cutting-edge design of a pie box created for Mary Beth's Apple Pie Co., a gourmet, mail-order pie company owned by actress Mary Beth Evans, who stars as Kayla Brady on DAYS OF OUR LIVES. These are the company’s second and third consecutive awards from IoPP, the industry’s top organization dedicated to the packaging profession.
AUDIO: Daytime Confidential #244: Mimi Torchin Interview
Mimi Torchin is making the rounds this week. Here she stops by the "Daytime Confidential" podcast to talk about her days at Soap Opera Weekly and her many experiences in the soap world over the years.
GH's Monstrous Lies, AMC's Truthful Memories
The fabulous Marlena De Lacroix writes her "nastiest" article ever! Here's an excerpt: "Yesterday, I was trying to write my long promised column against the most perversely inhuman, possibly most disturbing soap storyline of all time, but the words just would not come out. I’m talking about the GENERAL HOSPITAL storyline written by Bob Guza that began with 12-year-old Michael getting shot in the head and climaxed with his parents Sonny and Carly screwing in the back seat of a limo after delivering their comatose son toAMC trio a long-term care facility. That I felt paralyzed and couldn’t write was very odd because I’d been angrily 'writing' the words of the column every day in my head since that day six weeks ago when a shot meant for Sonny rang out in the coffee warehouse and mistakenly hit Michael."
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Mary Fickett (ex-Ruth, ALL MY CHILDREN; ex-Katherine, THE EDGE OF NIGHT) - 76
Kelly Monaco (Sam, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-Livvie, PORT CHARLES) - 33
Tom Baran (Tony, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 25
Kelly Monaco (Sam, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-Livvie, PORT CHARLES) - 33
Tom Baran (Tony, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 25
Thursday, May 22, 2008
News Brief
INTERVIEW: Mimi Torchin
Soap Opera Weekly's former editor-in-chief Mimi Torchin talks to TV Guide Canada's Nelson Branco about an industry gone awry, how she pioneered soap journalism, and if she’ll ever return to the soap world
Rave review for Eddie Alderson in Eastwood film
Clint Eastwood came to Cannes Tuesday night and debuted his latest film, "Changeling." A key performance by 15-year-old Eddie Alderson of ONE LIFE TO LIVE is strong enough to put him on the map. Nothing even in that crazy soap opera could have prepared him for this material.
AUDIO: Interview with GH's Stephen Macht
Stephen Macht stopped by "Buzzworthy Radio" last night to talk about his roles on GENERAL HOSPITAL and other soaps and much more.
Actors who are Pop Stars
In many ways, the target demographic for soap operas comprises the graduates of the Teenyboppers category. Many of the people who watch them, whether they've been doing it for 10 years or for 60, would still buy anything with their favorite star's name on it. But instead of Hilary Duff on the Disney Channel, it's Rick Springfield on GENERAL HOSPITAL or Jack Wagner on any of four different soaps. Springfield was already a popular singer in his native Australia when he suddenly found himself on millions of afternoon TV screens in 1981 and learned that he didn't know what popularity meant. His presciently titled debut album, "Working Class Dog," stormed the charts on the back of the lead single, "Jessie's Girl," but critical support was not to follow. Wagner sang the 1984 mega-ballad "All I Need."
Daytime Emmy Predictions
Garrett Godwin makes his Daytime Emmy picks in the following categories:
Lead Actress
Lead Actor
Costume Designer Nishimoto honored
Kathi Nishimoto, won a 1987 Emmy Award for costume for THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, was inducted into MiraCosta College's new Theatre Hall of Fame.
Adonis 2008: Week 2 voting is now open
The results of the Week 1 semifinals will announced tonight at 10pm ET in a live chat.
Soap Opera Weekly's former editor-in-chief Mimi Torchin talks to TV Guide Canada's Nelson Branco about an industry gone awry, how she pioneered soap journalism, and if she’ll ever return to the soap world
Rave review for Eddie Alderson in Eastwood film
Clint Eastwood came to Cannes Tuesday night and debuted his latest film, "Changeling." A key performance by 15-year-old Eddie Alderson of ONE LIFE TO LIVE is strong enough to put him on the map. Nothing even in that crazy soap opera could have prepared him for this material.
AUDIO: Interview with GH's Stephen Macht
Stephen Macht stopped by "Buzzworthy Radio" last night to talk about his roles on GENERAL HOSPITAL and other soaps and much more.
Actors who are Pop Stars
In many ways, the target demographic for soap operas comprises the graduates of the Teenyboppers category. Many of the people who watch them, whether they've been doing it for 10 years or for 60, would still buy anything with their favorite star's name on it. But instead of Hilary Duff on the Disney Channel, it's Rick Springfield on GENERAL HOSPITAL or Jack Wagner on any of four different soaps. Springfield was already a popular singer in his native Australia when he suddenly found himself on millions of afternoon TV screens in 1981 and learned that he didn't know what popularity meant. His presciently titled debut album, "Working Class Dog," stormed the charts on the back of the lead single, "Jessie's Girl," but critical support was not to follow. Wagner sang the 1984 mega-ballad "All I Need."
Daytime Emmy Predictions
Garrett Godwin makes his Daytime Emmy picks in the following categories:
Lead Actress
Lead Actor
Costume Designer Nishimoto honored
Kathi Nishimoto, won a 1987 Emmy Award for costume for THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, was inducted into MiraCosta College's new Theatre Hall of Fame.
Adonis 2008: Week 2 voting is now open
The results of the Week 1 semifinals will announced tonight at 10pm ET in a live chat.
InTurn Season 3 Episode 12: The Sixth Callback
A surprise announcement from ATWT Executive Producer Chris Goutman sends chills through the InTurns as they learn one person will be sent home immediately. Later, Kelley Menighan Hensley (Emily) gives out some much needed career advice.
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Victoria Wyndham (ex-Rachel, ANOTHER WORLD; ex-Charlotte, GUIDING LIGHT) - 63
Beau Kazer (ex-Brock, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS; ex-Bunny, GENERAL HOSPITAL) - 57
Beau Kazer (ex-Brock, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS; ex-Bunny, GENERAL HOSPITAL) - 57
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Longtime THE ARCHERS Actress Margot Boyd Has Passed
Margot Boyd, who was born Beryl Billings on September 24, 1913, was brought up in Bath in Somerset. Before making the role of Mrs. Antrobus on THE ARCHERS her own, she had worked with some of the great names of theatre and film, including George Bernard Shaw, Noel Coward, Michael Redgrave, Vivien Leigh, James Stewart and Kenneth More.
Margot attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art where she found herself in a play produced by George Bernard Shaw, whom she found "wonderful" and "very encouraging". When she left RADA she got a job in rep at Leeds Theatre Royal. The roles she recalled playing, twice nightly, never seemed to be under the age of 55, but she did have the opportunity to play in all the productions from the West End.
In 1984, while working for the BBC Radio Drama Company, Margot was given a small one-off part in THE ARCHERS and made such a success of it that she was written into the program as a regular character. Marjorie Antrobus, who lived in Waterley Cross, gave a talk to the Ambridge Over-60s Club. Her subject was "The Colourful World of the Afghan Hound". The talk was so well appreciated that she was asked back to open the village fete in July, when she gave another talk on dogs, acquiring the nickname "the dog woman".
Marjorie was so at home in Ambridge that she moved into Nightingale Farm in February 1988 and soon proved to be staunch support to Ambridge's various vicars. She served on the PCC and the parish council, and occasionally stood in as church organist or accompanist to village shows.
Letting a flat in her house to help make ends meet, she became a popular landlady to several of the village's youngsters, including Ruth, Roy and Hayley. She would often reminisce about her younger days as a colonial wife in Africa, Burma and Palestine, and her much-missed husband Teddy.
As she became more frail, Marjorie moved into The Laurels nursing home in 2002. She was last heard on THE ARCHERS in the omnibus edition transmitted on 19 September 2004.
Margot attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art where she found herself in a play produced by George Bernard Shaw, whom she found "wonderful" and "very encouraging". When she left RADA she got a job in rep at Leeds Theatre Royal. The roles she recalled playing, twice nightly, never seemed to be under the age of 55, but she did have the opportunity to play in all the productions from the West End.
In 1984, while working for the BBC Radio Drama Company, Margot was given a small one-off part in THE ARCHERS and made such a success of it that she was written into the program as a regular character. Marjorie Antrobus, who lived in Waterley Cross, gave a talk to the Ambridge Over-60s Club. Her subject was "The Colourful World of the Afghan Hound". The talk was so well appreciated that she was asked back to open the village fete in July, when she gave another talk on dogs, acquiring the nickname "the dog woman".
Marjorie was so at home in Ambridge that she moved into Nightingale Farm in February 1988 and soon proved to be staunch support to Ambridge's various vicars. She served on the PCC and the parish council, and occasionally stood in as church organist or accompanist to village shows.
Letting a flat in her house to help make ends meet, she became a popular landlady to several of the village's youngsters, including Ruth, Roy and Hayley. She would often reminisce about her younger days as a colonial wife in Africa, Burma and Palestine, and her much-missed husband Teddy.
As she became more frail, Marjorie moved into The Laurels nursing home in 2002. She was last heard on THE ARCHERS in the omnibus edition transmitted on 19 September 2004.
News Brief
Y&R's Fictional Magazine Launches Actual Website
From the flashing fashion pictures to the dormant button for a section that's still a work in progress, restlessstyle.com looks exactly like the website for an up-and-coming magazine. But if the name didn't tip you off, then the "Ask Phyllis" section, with a picture of Michelle Stafford giving fashion advice as her character on CBS' The Young and the Restless, probably would.
AUDIO: CBC Radio's "The Current" discusses Luke and Noah
BLOG: Ricky Paull Goldin
"For all you ladies out there, I did my first scenes with Cameron Mathison last night. And yes he is a sweetheart and a very giving scene partner. I want to give him a shout out, because I had all this hospital medical jargon to spew, but I f****d up a few times, thank you for putting up with my cursing in between takes! Let me tell you something people, playing a doctor but doing it well, ain't easy. I'm actually going to silo some doctors through the ER as part of my research and due diligence on this character. One thing I can't stand is for any of that stuff to look or sound fake. My job just got ten times harder.
Last but not least, I spoke to Beth Ehlers last night and we have agreed to have one final bash as Gus and Harley. It will be a goodbye party for all of you, our friends, family, and loved ones. Val had the wonderful idea of having a greek theme, so the entire Cooper family will be there ( I will personally make sure of it ). We will break plates, have tons of Greek salad, wine, baklava, and fabulous Greek music. Maybe I'll even get Beth to sing a song. So it would mean the world to us to see you there. Because for that one last afternoon, we will be Gus and Harley. I would love to see you there, please check my website and the magazines for the upcoming details. For your convenience, it will be during the Guiding Light fan club weekend. And for those of you who get seasick, don't worry it won't be on a boat. It will be in the Times Square area of the greatest city in the world, New York City. Val says to book early because we expect it to sell out quickly."
VIDEO: Behind the scenes at ATWT and GL
TALK OF THE TOWN on Channel 5 in Nashville went behind the scenes of the hair, make-up and wardrobe departments at AS THE WORLD TURNS and GUIDING LIGHT. Host Meryll Rose will appear on next Tuesday's episode of ATWT.
Beemer to play Owen Hart on B&B
Brandon Beemer (ex-Shawn, DAYS OF OUR LIVES) signed on to THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL without knowing much about his character or even his name. The character finally got a name — Owen Hart (wasn't there a wrestler with this name?) — and will be connected to Donna's son, Marcus. Beemer will first air on July 2.
Hogan Sheffer new Y&R co-headwriter?
Soap Opera Network has learned that Hogan Sheffer is joining THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS as Co-Head Writer. He will be top scribe of the CBS sudser along with current Head Writer Maria Arena Bell.
Miss USA 2008 will appear on DAYS
Crystle Stewart, Miss USA 2008, is coming to Salem. Look for Stewart on June 20 when she portrays an Alpha Chi Theta adviser to DAYS OF OUR LIVES's Chelsea (Rachel Melvin) and Morgan (Kristen Renton).
Pratt taking over at AMC?
Esensten and Brown fired as ALL MY CHILDREN headwriters and Charles Pratt hired as replacement?
Van Hansis makes the AfterElton.com Hot 100
AfterElton.com is tallying its Hot 100 list, which honors "the hottest 100 men on the planet." The official list of hotties won't be made available until June 2, but the first name AfterElton.com has revealed is that of a newbie to the list: ATWT's Van Hansis (Luke). The Hot 100 is the result of thousands of votes.
AFTRA sends update letter to members
"We are confronting a number of challenging issues, and a resolution may not be quick or easy. However, our discussions with the Industry have been professional and businesslike, and we remain focused on continuing negotiations in this vein."
VIDEO: Ne-Yo on AMC
Watch a clip from Ne-Yo's appearance on ALL MY CHILDREN.
Liveblogging ATWT: Runaway bride!
AfterElton's live recap of today's episode of AS THE WORLD TURNS.
How TV can reflect society's tolerance
The first thing that's obvious is that TV and all of popular culture is more accepting of a broader range of images and ideas than they've ever been, and that includes showing gays and lesbians as fully rounded people.
That's why THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW has been a top-rated daytime series for five seasons, why BROTHERS & SISTERS is a Top 20 show, and why CBS' soap AS THE WORLD TURNS started a storyline about a gay couple to draw younger viewers.
CMA Music Festival special will air on ABC
A two-hour special about this year's CMA Music Festival will air on ABC on Sept. 8. Titled CMA MUSIC FESTIVAL: COUNTRY'S NIGHT TO ROCK, the show will be filmed June 5-8 in Nashville, with a focus on the nightly concerts at LP Field. In addition, the CMA has announced a series of free concerts during the event for families, including PBS host Miss Lori and children's singer Dennis Scott. Additionally, the Clark Brothers will play a free, late night show in front of the Hard Rock Café on June 5, followed by Whiskey Falls on June 6 and Mark Wills on June 7. ABC Daytime actors from ALL MY CHILDREN, GENERAL HOSPITAL and ONE LIFE TO LIVE will also attend the event.
From the flashing fashion pictures to the dormant button for a section that's still a work in progress, restlessstyle.com looks exactly like the website for an up-and-coming magazine. But if the name didn't tip you off, then the "Ask Phyllis" section, with a picture of Michelle Stafford giving fashion advice as her character on CBS' The Young and the Restless, probably would.
AUDIO: CBC Radio's "The Current" discusses Luke and Noah
BLOG: Ricky Paull Goldin
"For all you ladies out there, I did my first scenes with Cameron Mathison last night. And yes he is a sweetheart and a very giving scene partner. I want to give him a shout out, because I had all this hospital medical jargon to spew, but I f****d up a few times, thank you for putting up with my cursing in between takes! Let me tell you something people, playing a doctor but doing it well, ain't easy. I'm actually going to silo some doctors through the ER as part of my research and due diligence on this character. One thing I can't stand is for any of that stuff to look or sound fake. My job just got ten times harder.
Last but not least, I spoke to Beth Ehlers last night and we have agreed to have one final bash as Gus and Harley. It will be a goodbye party for all of you, our friends, family, and loved ones. Val had the wonderful idea of having a greek theme, so the entire Cooper family will be there ( I will personally make sure of it ). We will break plates, have tons of Greek salad, wine, baklava, and fabulous Greek music. Maybe I'll even get Beth to sing a song. So it would mean the world to us to see you there. Because for that one last afternoon, we will be Gus and Harley. I would love to see you there, please check my website and the magazines for the upcoming details. For your convenience, it will be during the Guiding Light fan club weekend. And for those of you who get seasick, don't worry it won't be on a boat. It will be in the Times Square area of the greatest city in the world, New York City. Val says to book early because we expect it to sell out quickly."
VIDEO: Behind the scenes at ATWT and GL
TALK OF THE TOWN on Channel 5 in Nashville went behind the scenes of the hair, make-up and wardrobe departments at AS THE WORLD TURNS and GUIDING LIGHT. Host Meryll Rose will appear on next Tuesday's episode of ATWT.
Beemer to play Owen Hart on B&BBrandon Beemer (ex-Shawn, DAYS OF OUR LIVES) signed on to THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL without knowing much about his character or even his name. The character finally got a name — Owen Hart (wasn't there a wrestler with this name?) — and will be connected to Donna's son, Marcus. Beemer will first air on July 2.
Hogan Sheffer new Y&R co-headwriter?
Soap Opera Network has learned that Hogan Sheffer is joining THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS as Co-Head Writer. He will be top scribe of the CBS sudser along with current Head Writer Maria Arena Bell.
Miss USA 2008 will appear on DAYS
Crystle Stewart, Miss USA 2008, is coming to Salem. Look for Stewart on June 20 when she portrays an Alpha Chi Theta adviser to DAYS OF OUR LIVES's Chelsea (Rachel Melvin) and Morgan (Kristen Renton).
Pratt taking over at AMC?
Esensten and Brown fired as ALL MY CHILDREN headwriters and Charles Pratt hired as replacement?
Van Hansis makes the AfterElton.com Hot 100
AfterElton.com is tallying its Hot 100 list, which honors "the hottest 100 men on the planet." The official list of hotties won't be made available until June 2, but the first name AfterElton.com has revealed is that of a newbie to the list: ATWT's Van Hansis (Luke). The Hot 100 is the result of thousands of votes.
AFTRA sends update letter to members
"We are confronting a number of challenging issues, and a resolution may not be quick or easy. However, our discussions with the Industry have been professional and businesslike, and we remain focused on continuing negotiations in this vein."
VIDEO: Ne-Yo on AMC
Watch a clip from Ne-Yo's appearance on ALL MY CHILDREN.
Liveblogging ATWT: Runaway bride!
AfterElton's live recap of today's episode of AS THE WORLD TURNS.
How TV can reflect society's tolerance
The first thing that's obvious is that TV and all of popular culture is more accepting of a broader range of images and ideas than they've ever been, and that includes showing gays and lesbians as fully rounded people.
That's why THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW has been a top-rated daytime series for five seasons, why BROTHERS & SISTERS is a Top 20 show, and why CBS' soap AS THE WORLD TURNS started a storyline about a gay couple to draw younger viewers.
CMA Music Festival special will air on ABC
A two-hour special about this year's CMA Music Festival will air on ABC on Sept. 8. Titled CMA MUSIC FESTIVAL: COUNTRY'S NIGHT TO ROCK, the show will be filmed June 5-8 in Nashville, with a focus on the nightly concerts at LP Field. In addition, the CMA has announced a series of free concerts during the event for families, including PBS host Miss Lori and children's singer Dennis Scott. Additionally, the Clark Brothers will play a free, late night show in front of the Hard Rock Café on June 5, followed by Whiskey Falls on June 6 and Mark Wills on June 7. ABC Daytime actors from ALL MY CHILDREN, GENERAL HOSPITAL and ONE LIFE TO LIVE will also attend the event.
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Carol Potter (ex-Joan, SUNSET BEACH; ex-Beverly, ONE LIFE TO LIVE; ex-Betsy, THE DOCTORS) - 60
John Martin (ex-Hank, SUNSET BEACH; ex-Jon, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-Frederick, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 57
Marnie Schulenburg (Alison, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 24
John Martin (ex-Hank, SUNSET BEACH; ex-Jon, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-Frederick, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 57
Marnie Schulenburg (Alison, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 24
Out on the Town - May 21, 2008
Cameron Mathison, Kelly Ripa and Neil Patrick Harris filmed outside of the LIVE WITH REGIS AND KELLY show earlier today in New York City.
Manhattanites Industry Screening
Last night was the first industry screening for my film, Manhattanites. I'll write more about this on Friday. We are screening again on Thursday night in Tribeca.
From left: Gregori J. Martin, Derrell Whitt, Lyle Kamenir, Roger Newcomb
From left: Gregori J. Martin, Derrell Whitt, Lyle Kamenir, Roger Newcomb
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
For Y&R, No Hughes Ain't Good News
In the May 26 issue of TV Guide — on sale this week — Michael Logan ran an interview with Finola Hughes, aka Anna Devane on ABC's GENERAL HOSPITAL, about her upcoming guest stint on CBS' THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS. But just after that issue went to press, execs at ABC and GH had a collective cow over Hughes's temporary defection and pressured the actress to drop out of the Y&R role.
ABC has now issued the following statement: "GENERAL HOSPITAL always planned a big summer storyline revolving around the characters of Anna Devane and Robin Scorpio as the mother-daughter relationship continues to grow in the face of Robin becoming a mother for the first time. Upon learning Finola Hughes had booked a role in a short story arc on a competing daytime drama, GENERAL HOSPITAL requested that she honor her commitment to our show, and she graciously obliged."
Y&R had set Hughes for a four-episode appearance as Zara, the flirty, opportunistic mother of Sabrina (played by Raya Meddine). The character is due to arrive in Genoa City June 19, just in time for Sabrina's wedding to mega-mogul Victor Newman (Eric Braeden).
Word is, the powers at the CBS-Sony soap are furious that their big casting coup was squelched and that Hughes caved in to ABC. A Y&R rep insists the deal with Hughes was signed and sealed — otherwise she wouldn't have been allowed to get on the phone with me to discuss the role (the "exclusive" was set up by a show publicist). Hughes herself told me that there was no scheduling conflict with the two soaps, and that she is not currently under contract to GH (as a free agent, she also hosts Style's How Do I Look?).
Y&R exec producer Josh Griffith is refusing to discuss the situation, choosing instead to send out this statement: "We think Finola is an exceptional actress. We're sorry things didn't work out, and we'd love to work with her in the future."
Y&R has yet to replace Hughes, who was due to begin taping May 28. Here's what the actress told me about the character: "Expect fireworks. Zara is quite the troublemaker and has a very complicated relationship with Sabrina. She deserted her daughter for years, leaving her in boarding schools while she flitted off to live her own life. Now she's back and thrilled that Sabrina is marrying a billionaire."
ABC has now issued the following statement: "GENERAL HOSPITAL always planned a big summer storyline revolving around the characters of Anna Devane and Robin Scorpio as the mother-daughter relationship continues to grow in the face of Robin becoming a mother for the first time. Upon learning Finola Hughes had booked a role in a short story arc on a competing daytime drama, GENERAL HOSPITAL requested that she honor her commitment to our show, and she graciously obliged."
Y&R had set Hughes for a four-episode appearance as Zara, the flirty, opportunistic mother of Sabrina (played by Raya Meddine). The character is due to arrive in Genoa City June 19, just in time for Sabrina's wedding to mega-mogul Victor Newman (Eric Braeden).
Word is, the powers at the CBS-Sony soap are furious that their big casting coup was squelched and that Hughes caved in to ABC. A Y&R rep insists the deal with Hughes was signed and sealed — otherwise she wouldn't have been allowed to get on the phone with me to discuss the role (the "exclusive" was set up by a show publicist). Hughes herself told me that there was no scheduling conflict with the two soaps, and that she is not currently under contract to GH (as a free agent, she also hosts Style's How Do I Look?).
Y&R exec producer Josh Griffith is refusing to discuss the situation, choosing instead to send out this statement: "We think Finola is an exceptional actress. We're sorry things didn't work out, and we'd love to work with her in the future."
Y&R has yet to replace Hughes, who was due to begin taping May 28. Here's what the actress told me about the character: "Expect fireworks. Zara is quite the troublemaker and has a very complicated relationship with Sabrina. She deserted her daughter for years, leaving her in boarding schools while she flitted off to live her own life. Now she's back and thrilled that Sabrina is marrying a billionaire."
Today's Soap Star Birthdays
Constance Towers (ex-Helena, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-Julianna, SUNSET BEACH; Clarissa, CAPITOL) - 75
Paolo Seganti (ex-Damian, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 43
Paolo Seganti (ex-Damian, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 43
InTurn Season 3 Episode 11: The Star Audition
During the Star Audition the InTurns have the opportunity to act with ATWT cast members Michael Park (Jack) and Kelley Menighan Hensley (Emily) who also happen to join Richard on the judging panel.
Monday, May 19, 2008
News Brief
TV Guide Canada's weekly "Nelson Ratings"
Nelson Branco review ;ast week's soap reviews, this week's viewing cheatsheet, and his top-rated actors!
Martin and Williams on "Buzzworthy Radio" tonight at 10pm ET
Director Gregori J. Martin (SCRIPTS & SCRUPLES) and Co-Director Darnell Williams (ALL MY CHILDREN) will be stopping by "Buzzworthy Radio" tonight to talk about Manhattanites, my first full-length feature film which is screening on Tuesday and Thursday night.
ONE LIFE TO LIVE: 40 and Fabulous
"It seems today’s OLTL writers have moved away from the outlandish story lines of the past (Mitch, back as a ghost to tell Viki that she had twins daughters from two different fathers without knowing it?) to more down-to-earth scenarios to which average daytime viewers can relate. Quite simply, when you identify with a shows characters you are more likely to stay with them day after day."
PHOTOS: Soapfest 2008
Soap fans meet their favorite celebs.
Frank Dicopoulos wins Humanitarian award
Frank Dicopoulos was presented with the Humanitarian Artistic Achievement Award at The Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund 17th Anniversary Gala. Dicopoulos volunteers time and support to many organizations and charities.
BLOG: Tom Casiello
Sharing the Cynicism: "I've been very vocal over the last seven months about the mistakes TPTB make on a daily basis with these shows, and God knows I've accepted responsibility for my share of clunkers at Days in 2007. But at what point does it shift over to us on the other side of the TV screen? At one point should we stop assuming the worst about everything and just remember what it felt like to get sucked into a moment and ride it out?"
When all else fails, there’s always mindless sex... : "You'll notice I tend to stay away from saying too much about GH or ATWT, only because I have a lot of close friends who work at both, and I don't want to create any bad blood. (You know I love you guys!!!) But Sonny and Carly's limo 'f^king' (Laura Wright's words, not mine) reminded me of all the other times we've seen people jump into the sack with no other motivation than tragedy: Kendall and Aiden on AMC, Cameron and Josie on AW, John and Kate on Days, and dozens more I'm too lazy to name right now - they've all done it. Life is bad, someone's dead (or near dead), tears are shed, and the next thing you know, two people are between the sheets (or in the back of a limo), swapping spit and other bodily fluids while betraying everything - their families, the memories of their lost loved ones, whatever."
Nelson Branco review ;ast week's soap reviews, this week's viewing cheatsheet, and his top-rated actors!
Martin and Williams on "Buzzworthy Radio" tonight at 10pm ET
Director Gregori J. Martin (SCRIPTS & SCRUPLES) and Co-Director Darnell Williams (ALL MY CHILDREN) will be stopping by "Buzzworthy Radio" tonight to talk about Manhattanites, my first full-length feature film which is screening on Tuesday and Thursday night.
ONE LIFE TO LIVE: 40 and Fabulous
"It seems today’s OLTL writers have moved away from the outlandish story lines of the past (Mitch, back as a ghost to tell Viki that she had twins daughters from two different fathers without knowing it?) to more down-to-earth scenarios to which average daytime viewers can relate. Quite simply, when you identify with a shows characters you are more likely to stay with them day after day."
PHOTOS: Soapfest 2008
Soap fans meet their favorite celebs.
Frank Dicopoulos wins Humanitarian award
Frank Dicopoulos was presented with the Humanitarian Artistic Achievement Award at The Hellenic Times Scholarship Fund 17th Anniversary Gala. Dicopoulos volunteers time and support to many organizations and charities.
BLOG: Tom Casiello
Sharing the Cynicism: "I've been very vocal over the last seven months about the mistakes TPTB make on a daily basis with these shows, and God knows I've accepted responsibility for my share of clunkers at Days in 2007. But at what point does it shift over to us on the other side of the TV screen? At one point should we stop assuming the worst about everything and just remember what it felt like to get sucked into a moment and ride it out?"
When all else fails, there’s always mindless sex... : "You'll notice I tend to stay away from saying too much about GH or ATWT, only because I have a lot of close friends who work at both, and I don't want to create any bad blood. (You know I love you guys!!!) But Sonny and Carly's limo 'f^king' (Laura Wright's words, not mine) reminded me of all the other times we've seen people jump into the sack with no other motivation than tragedy: Kendall and Aiden on AMC, Cameron and Josie on AW, John and Kate on Days, and dozens more I'm too lazy to name right now - they've all done it. Life is bad, someone's dead (or near dead), tears are shed, and the next thing you know, two people are between the sheets (or in the back of a limo), swapping spit and other bodily fluids while betraying everything - their families, the memories of their lost loved ones, whatever."
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