In Memoriam 2010

The soap world lost a number of greats both in front of and behind the camera this year. Here is the annual WE LOVE SOAPS TV tribute to those who passed away in 2010 including Michael Gene Adams, Danny Aiello III, Himan Brown, Dixie Carter, Christopher Cazenove, Jill Clayburgh, Gary Coleman, Jacqueline Courtney, John Forsythe, David Froman, James Gammon, Harold Gould, Carl Gordon, Suzanne Grossman, Park Yong Ha, Peter Haskell, June Havoc, Carol Pfander Henderson, Bernard Kates, Larry Keith, Antonie Kamerling, Mick Lally, Simon MacCorkindale, Nan Martin, Kevin McCarthy, Rue McClanahan, Caroline McWilliams, Werner Michel, James Mitchell, Gordon Mulholland, Roger Newman, Michelle Nicastro, Leslie Nielsen, Vince O'Brien, Niek Pancras, Nancy Pinkerton, Addison Powell, Carla Princi, Bob Rappaport, Frances Reid, Lynn Redgrave, Rosa Rio, Zelda Rubinstein, Paul Ryan Rudd, Jean Simmons and Helen Wagner.

WLS Interview Archive: Nicolas Coster

His track record in daytime is legendary.  He is the self-proclaimed holder of the most daytime roles in history.  His scene stealing turns on each of these soaps have earned him critical acclaim and fan loyalty.  But how does the profoundly gifted Nicolas Coster perceive his career, and his responsibility to give back to others? Please join me for this revealing interview from September 2010, in which we reviewed Mr. Coster's nine television soaps, plus his exciting new role as The Mayor of THE BAY.

Part One  - the prolific actor discusses his roles in the early days of soaps including THE SECRET STORM and YOUNG DOCTOR MALONE, and why his name came up in a U.S. Senate hearing on "immorality."

Part Two - Coster remembers his time on ANOTHER WORLD and ONE LIFE TO LIVE, the accident that almost ended his career, and beginning on SANTA BARBARA. 

Part Three - Coster shares more of the highs and lows of playing Lionel on SANTA BARABARA, as well as his enjoyable run as Steve on ALL MY CHILDREN.

Part Four - Coster shares insights about the world of daytime television, as well as memories of when he returned to AS THE WORLD TURNS as Eduardo Grimaldi 

Part Five - Coster reflects on his varied career, his involvement with teaching disabled individuals to scuba dive, as well as how his work in therapy enhanced his acting skills.

Damon L. Jacobs is a Licensed Therapist now accepting new clients in New York City.  He is also the author of the popular book "Absolutely Should-less: The Secret to Living the Stress-Free Life You Deserve." For more information about scheduling an appointment, please email him at Shouldless@gmail.com.

Jon Lindstrom Reveals His "High" Ride In Music and Soaps - Part Two

In Part One of our interview, Jon Lindstrom shared his musical roots with The High Lonesome, memories of playing Hollywood clubs in the 80s, as well as some of the struggles behind the scenes at SANTA BARBARA. In Part Two he reveals more anecdotes about SANTA BARBARA, and his process of playing tortured twins Ryan and Kevin on GENERAL HOSPITAL.  Which famous soap actor almost got the role instead of Lindstrom? Find out below!

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: From the viewer’s standpoint, the 1985-1986 season you were on SANTA BARBARA was such a treat.
Jon Lindstrom: It was a beautifully written and produced show.  It was so well done.  I’m happy for that.  The work showed.  It was hard work, and we all sweated bullets to make it happen. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Your character, Mark McCormick, was popular while being so very hated.
Jon Lindstrom: Everybody hated that guy.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Well he raped his wife Mary, the former nun!
Jon Lindstrom: Yeah, he was the smarmiest guy. He was a douche bag.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Yet audiences were captivated.  You have made a living on soaps and independent films playing some very troubled and often violent men.

EXCLUSIVE: George Reinholt Responds To Jacqueline Courtney's Passing

George Reinholt played "Steve" on ANOTHER WORLD opposite Jacqueline Courtney's "Alice" from 1968-1975.  Their pairing was extremely popular is considered by many historians to be one of daytime's first "supercouples." He played opposite Courtney again on ONE LIFE TO LIVE from 1975-1977.  Earlier today he shared his feelings of Courtney's tragic passing with We Love Soaps TV:

I am shocked and very upset and disturbed. I know death comes to us all but I think she died too young. Much too young. I loved her. Truly. She was wonderful to work with. And I think of her often.

Linda Dano Responds To Jacqueline Courtney's Passing

Daytime veteran Linda Dano, who worked with Jacqueline Courtney on ONE LIFE TO LIVE from 1978-1980, and during Courtney's 1984-85 return to ANOTHER WORLD, shared these words with We Love Soaps TV in response to the beloved Courtney's passing. 

"Jackie and I became great friends at ONE LIFE TO LIVE. She was an extraordinary talent in daytime, a good friend, and an extraordinary human being. We are all saddened by her untimely death."

Jacqueline Courtney Has Passed Away

Soap Opera Digest has reported that beloved soap star Jacqueline Courtney (born Sharon Courtney) has passed away of metastatic melanoma at age 64.  Courtney was half of the iconic coupling of Alice and Steve (George Reinholt) on ANOTHER WORLD and played the role from 1964-1975, and again from 1984-1985. After ANOTHER WORLD, Courtney starred as the popular character of Pat Ashley on ONE LIFE TO LIVE from 1975-1983.  She retired from acting in 1987 after making a brief appearance on LOVING but did appear on ANOTHER WORLD's 25th Anniversary Week of episodes in 1989. She also returned a month later for Mac's funeral, her final appearance.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV mourns this great loss, and wish the very best to her family and friends. 

Courtney appeared in 1994 in a special CBS tribute to daytime drama's first 50 years.  Enjoy this clip of her work on ANOTHER WORLD and reunion with George Reinholt.

Jon Lindstrom Reveals His "High" Ride In Music and Soaps, Part One

When hearing the name "Jon Lindstrom," most soap fans immediately think of his critically acclaimed role as Craig Montgomery on AS THE WORLD TURNS, rational and tortured Kevin Collins on GENERAL HOSPITAL and PORT CHARLES, or even scary sociopath Mark McCormick on SANTA BARBARA.  What most soap fans don't know is that this Emmy-nominated actor has been rocking out on his drums since age seven, and was an integral part of the Billboard chart-topping band The High Lonesome in the '80s and '90s.  In this new interview, Lindstrom will trace the origins of his musical passion, as well as recollect some of his most memorable moments on his numerous shows.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV:  Jon, it is so wonderful to speak with you.  One of the things that has been hard about covering soaps the last few years has been seeing so many people on and off screen lose their jobs due to cancellations.  At the same time, we have seen these losses propel people forward creatively, and in some cases people have returned to an artistic expression that they gave up when they started working on daytime.  I know that for you, music has been a passion in your life that preceded your interest in acting.
Jon Lindstrom: It has been an interest as far back as I can remember.  I got my first drum kit when I was in the fifth grade.  I was already starting to pound on things.  My parents have a picture of me in the backyard with wooden spoons and my mother’s pots and pans spread out like an array of drums.  Hitting things was always part of my life.  Things, not people!

Music was important in my family’s home.  My father was always playing guitar, my mother was always singing.  I was always spinning her Andy Williams records, or her great jazz collection.  She finally stopped letting me play them because I would break them.  They were these really old fragile acetate LPs.  If you dropped in two inches the whole thing would shatter.  She put a stop to that so I figured I’d better learn to play music instead of just listening.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV:  How did you start to channel this passion into something that sounded like music?

RESULTS: Indie Soap of the Week Poll

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Indie Soap of the Week" poll for the week of December 19-25, 2010. VENICE returned to the top spot for the week. ANACOSTIA's latest episode was a hit as the soap finished with a strong second place showing.



If you're a fan of any of these shows, we encourage you to check out some of the other series you may not have watched yet. This past week was a particularly good week for indie soaps both drama and comedy (see the list below for links).

Indie soaps that aired one or more episodes last week were eligible. Check back on Saturday when this week's polling begins and keep supporting your favorite indie shows by voting. But more importantly watch them and spread the word.

Watch last week's indie soaps below:
- ANACOSTIA Season 2 Episode 8 "Business As Usual"
- AS THE CORN GROWS Episode 58
- ASYLUM Episode 5 "Eugene Wilson" Parts 1 & 2
- DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM Season 3 Episode 6 "Aplomb"
- EMPIRE Episode 3.6 "Part of the Family"
- END RESULT Part 2 "Where is She"
- I BREATHE THIS Episode 10 "Who Needs Who?" (explicit)
- MISS BEHAVE Episode 2.2 "A Dream Is a Wish"
- ORANGE JUICE IN BISHOP'S GARDEN Episode 3.7 "Worst Day Ever"
- VENICE Season 2 Episode 11 (subscription)

Today's Soap Star Birthdays

Terri Garber (ex-Iris, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Allison, TEXAS; ex-Victoria, GENERAL HOSPITAL; ex-Suzanne, SANTA BARBARA; ex- Leslie, DYNASTY) - 50
Bree Williamson (Jessica, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 29

VOTE: Indie Soap of the Week Poll

Which indie soap was your favorite last week? Support your favorite continuing drama and vote in the weekly WE LOVE SOAPS TV poll below. Check back on Wednesday morning for the results (voting ends Wednesday at 9 a.m. ET). Only the shows that aired one or more new episodes from December 19-25, 2010 are listed. Based on release schedules, the shows in the poll will change weekly.

If an indie soap aired this week and is not on the list, feel free to cast your vote as "Other" and add a note in the Comments section of this post.



Watch this week's indie soaps below:
- ANACOSTIA Season 2 Episode 8 "Business As Usual"
- AS THE CORN GROWS Episode 58
- ASYLUM Episode 5 "Eugene Wilson" Parts 1 & 2
- DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM Season 3 Episode 6 "Aplomb"
- EMPIRE Episode 3.6 "Part of the Family"
- END RESULT Part 2 "Where is She"
- I BREATHE THIS Episode 10 "Who Needs Who?" (explicit)
- MISS BEHAVE Episode 2.2 "A Dream Is a Wish"
- ORANGE JUICE IN BISHOP'S GARDEN Episode 3.7 "Worst Day Ever"
- VENICE Season 2 Episode 11 (subscription)

RESULTS: Daytime Soap of the Week Poll

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Daytime Soap of the Week" poll for the week of December 20-24, 2010. DAYS OF OUR LIVES remained in the top spot for the fifth consecutive week.



Check back on Friday when this week's polling begins.

Anthony Anderson: The WLS Interview, Part Five

In Parts One , Two, Three, and Four, the Indie Soap auteur shared how the trauma of bullying fueled his creativity, why the actual suburb of Anacostia became his muse for the acclaimed show ANACOSTIA, how he dealt with the controversy after having a gay suicide storyline on the show, as well as the highs and lows or producing two full seasons of the hit series.  In this final part, we discuss Anderson's appearance on the We Love Soaps 15 Most Fascinating People of 2010, what's ahead in 2011, and why Anderson wants you to watch other people's shows!!

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Now I get to reveal to you that made the We Love Soaps list of the 15 Most Fascinating People in 2010!
Anthony Anderson: Wow.  You have floored me.  2010 was a great year for a lot of Indie Soaps.  Unfortunately I did notice that some of them that were there last year did not return this year.  I think that speaks to support and finances and I hope that some of these organizations and sponsors will back up some of these shows so we can bring continuing stories, diversity, great plots, and new ideas.  I am honored to be part of what has become one big family.  Everybody’s show are different but we are all in the same boat.  It is great to be amongst these other shows that are out there.  It has been a great year of opportunities and personal fulfillment.  I really love what we did with ANACOSTIA this year.  I’m proud of the stories, I’m proud of the actors, and I’m proud of the fans for sticking in there.  I’m proud to see some of the other shows are telling interesting stories as well.  I’m proud to see diversity on show like THE BAY. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: What would you like to see ahead in 2011?
Anthony Anderson: Personally I’d like to see Eric Braeden and Neil Patrick Harris wrestle (laughs).  We hope the box set of ANACOSTIA will be coming out by the end of January.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Colleen Dion (ex-Felicia, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL; ex-Leslie, ALL MY CHILDREN; ex-Brett, ANOTHER WORLD; ex-Ramona, GUIDING LIGHT; ex-Evie, SEARCH FOR TOMORROW; ex-Cecilia, LOVING; ex-Dahlia, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 46

Merry Christmas From We Love Soaps!

We wanted to take a moment to wish you, the readers of We Love Soaps, a very Merry Christmas!  This has been such a special year for us, and it would not have been possible without your support, donations, and active feedback.  We may not always agree on every topic, but we all share the common ground of loving soaps and wanting them to thrive for years to come.  

So please take a moment on this Christmas day to know how much you are appreciated and valued by us.  And please keep checking We Love Soaps in 2011 for hot news, Indie Soaps, indepth interviews, and some new features coming early in the year!

Love, Damon & Roger

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Gary Sandy (ex-Hank, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Randy, SOMERSET; ex-Michael, ANOTHER WORLD; ex-Stace, THE SECRET STORM; ex-Terrence, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 65

VOTE: Daytime Soap of the Week Poll

Which daytime soap was your favorite the week of December 20-24, 2010? Vote in the weekly WE LOVE SOAPS TV poll below and check back on Monday morning for the results.

Voting ends at 9 a.m. ET on Monday.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Sharon Farrell (ex-Flo, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS; ex-Cherry, RITUALS) - 70
Eva Tamargo (ex-Pilar, PASSIONS) - 50

EXCLUSIVE: Maurice Benard Interview, Part 1

WE LOVE SOAPS TV recently caught up with Emmy Award-winning actor Maurice Benard who previewed his upcoming appearances on the East Coast, shared his thoughts about his soap roles as Sonny Corinthos as GENERAL HOSPITAL and Nico Kelly on ALL MY CHILDREN, and much more. Read on to find out more about the candid and funny Benard, who continues to give compelling performances year after year.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Tell me about your upcoming appearances in January. I haven't attended one of these before. What do you do at these events?
Maurice Benard: I act like a chimpanzee and do somersaults [laughs]! It's actually been eight years since I've done it. I love the East Coast and my fans. They're incredible. I haven't flown since I did Oprah about eight years ago. What I do is go on stage and the fans ask questions and I just roll off the questions. Sometimes it's funny and sometimes it's sad. Sometimes I cry. It's a whole different type of thing. And I'm bringing Nathan from GH.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: How did that come about? People wouldn't logically think of the two of you together based on your storylines.
Maurice Benard: It's simple, he's just the best looking guy in the universe [laughs]. Seriously, he's also very talented so I asked him and he agreed. I have another tiny surprise as well. I'm not going to say what it is but it may steal the whole show.

RESULTS: Indie Soap of the Week Poll

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Indie Soap of the Week" poll for the week of December 12-18, 2010. THE BAY and VENICE remained in the top two spots for the week and MISS BEHAVE had a strong showing in third place as the show returned for its second season premiere.



If you're a fan of any of these shows, we encourage you to check out some of the other series you may not have watched yet. This past week was a particularly good week for indie soaps both drama and comedy (see the list below for links).

Indie soaps that aired one or more episodes last week were eligible. Check back on Saturday when this week's polling begins and keep supporting your favorite indie shows by voting. But more importantly watch them and spread the word.

Watch last week's indie soaps below:
- ASYLUM Episode 4 "Jessica Cartwright: Part 2"
- COLLEGE Episode 207 "A College Christmas"
- DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM Season 3 Episode 5 "The Gift of Rosary"
- EMPIRE Episode 3.5 "Special Delivery"
- END RESULT Part 1 "You Must Be Merrek"
- I BREATHE THIS Episode 9 "You Buggin' Out" (explicit)
- KOLE'S LAW Episode 106 "Guilty as Charged, Part Two"
- MISS BEHAVE Episode 2.1 "Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow"
- ORANGE JUICE IN BISHOP'S GARDEN Episode 3.6 "And Then There Were Three"
- THE BAY Chapter 3, Webisode 10
- VENICE Season 2 Episode 10 (subscription)
- VENUS SPA Episode 2.12 "Prank Wars II: Strip and Rip!"
- WESTERN X Episodes 1-3

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Susan Lucci (Erica, ALL MY CHILDREN) - 64
John Callahan (ex-Mackenzie, THE BAY; Dr. Baker/ex-Artie, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Edmund, ALL MY CHILDREN; ex-Craig, SANTA BARBARA; ex-Leo, GENERAL HOSPITAL) - 57
Martha Byrne (Catherine, GOTHAM; ex-Lily/Rose, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 41
Robert Benvenisti (ex-Kevin, DAYS OF OUR LIVES) - 37

Rebecca Budig Wins SKATING WITH THE STARS

ABC's SKATING WITH THE STARS has crowned its first champion, ALL MY CHILDREN star Rebecca Budig.

Budig and her partner, Fred Palascak, skated a clean, yet spunky program that won her perfect tens from all three judges in both categories. "It feels great!" she gushed when co-host Tanith Belbin asked how she felt. "I know it's only a TV show, but it feels great!"

WE LOVE SOAPS TV's 15 Most Fascinating People of 2010

2010 has a banner year for WE LOVE SOAPS TV. We have enjoyed bringing you the hottest news stories, deepest interviews, classic clips, historical articles, and cutting edge indie soaps, 365 days of the year.  We have relished the opportunity to witness, and at times be a part of, the changing landscape of the soap industry, both on and off-screen.

We wanted to end 2010 with a special list of individuals who compelled, captivated, and fascinated us this past year.  These are people who one way or another broke new ground making soap history, blazed new trails, and inspired the creative souls of their audience and their peers.  Below is our list of the 15 Most Fascinating People of 2010.

Ken Corday (Executive Producer, DAYS OF OUR LIVES)
Why Is He So Fascinating? Corday pulled a rabbit out of his hat in 2010 by getting DAYS renewed for two years during the worst economy of its entire 45 year run.  He made public declarations of commitment to telling stories about characters over 50 years of age and devoted three weeks of airtime to acknowledging and celebrating the legacy of Frances Reid (Alice Horton). Corday also published an almost too revealing memoir about his family legacy, including their struggles with mental illness, and what DAYS symbolized within the Corday clan.  In addition, he continued to work furiously behind the scenes to protect the show from "sharks" and keep Salem alive and kicking as the lone soap opera on NBC.

WATCH: EMPIRE Season 3 Episode 6 "Part of the Family"

DAYS OF OUR LIVES actors Molly Burnett and Casey Deidrick guest star on the latest all new episode of EMPIRE. Will Tina's Sloan's Theodora approve? Elsewhere, Thomas has a proposal for Marin, Marin has a proposal for Evan, Colleen calls in a favor, and Cubbie surprises Cane after Cane confronts him about the secret trust fund. Miss an episode and you'll miss a lot. Watch EMPIRE below.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Elizabeth Hubbard (ex-Lucinda, AS THE WORLD TURNS; Sair, GOEDE TIJDEN SLECHTE TIJDEN; ex-Althea, THE DOCTORS; ex-Estelle, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 77
Lauralee Bell (Christine, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 42

NEWS: Dolan, Carlson, Havins, Hagman, B&B Christmas, Google TV

Ellen Dolan to appear on SELLING NEW YORK
The excitement of New York City’s high-end real estate market, with its unique, often incredible urban dwellings, returns to HGTV in the compelling second season premiering on Thursday, January 6. Future episodes feature celebrity clients, including soap actress Ellen Dolan of the recently canceled AS THE WORLD TURNS who turns to Warburg Realty to help sell her Tribeca loft as soon as possible.

Anthony Anderson: The WLS Interview, Part Four

In Parts One , Two and Three
of our revealing interview with Anthony Anderson, the creator and mastermind behind indie soap hit ANACOSTIA discussed his process for putting together a steaming soap on the web, how bullying and taunting fueled his creativity and a child, and the highs and lows of directing himself in sex scenes on the show.  In Part Four below, Anderson reveals the struggles of putting together a season of episodes that are often 20 minutes long, hard lessons learned along the way, and previews the extras that will be coming in the ANACOSTIA box set!

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Your character Sean is still going through a lot in ANACOSTIA.  He lashed out at his good friend Mia.  And now that his long lost partner Julian is back from the dead, he hardly seems happy.
Anthony Anderson: I’m glad you picked that up.  You would think he would be really happy to have him back.  But he seems even more the opposite.  Julian is back, and you will see in some episodes coming up that he is not very pleased.  He is resentful of how the whole situation happened. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Is season two completely finished filming now? 
Anthony Anderson:  Oh yes.  We actually finished filming season two a year to the date that we started filming season one.  We were on the set realizing, “Hey, it’s been a year.” 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: And episodes of ANACOSTIA are long, sometimes 15-20 minutes.  What have been your greatest struggles of putting this two seasons together over this past year?

Jon Lindstrom and The High Lonesome Release New CD

Jon Lindstrom, best known for his work in daytime television, (as Craig Montgomery on AS THE WORLD TURNS, for which he received a 2010 Emmy Lead Actor nomination, and as Kevin Collins/Ryan Chamberlain in GENERAL HOSPITAL), returns to the music scene with his band The High Lonesome and their new CD release, “Collector’s Album 1995-2010.”

In a nod to years past, the album offers a mix of new and newly re-mastered tunes from The High Lonesome’s first album “Feel Free to Do So” which was described by Billboard Magazine’s Larry Flick as a "blend of alterna-country/blues and rootsy pop/rock" and called the single “True Believer” a “Bouncy, roots-rockin’ ditty [that] seems custom-made for cranking at peak volume while cruisin’ down the highway with your best buddies.”

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Larry Bryggman (ex-John, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 72

VOTE: Indie Soap of the Week Poll

Which indie soap was your favorite last week? Support your favorite continuing drama and vote in the weekly WE LOVE SOAPS TV poll below. Check back on Wednesday morning for the results (voting ends Wednesday at 9 a.m. ET). Only the shows that aired one or more new episodes from December 12-18, 2010 are listed. Based on release schedules, the shows in the poll will change weekly.

If an indie soap aired this week and is not on the list, feel free to cast your vote as "Other" and add a note in the Comments section of this post.



UPDATE: Due to some technical issues with the poll, we are extending voting until Thursday at 9 a.m. ET.

Watch this week's indie soaps below:
- ASYLUM Episode 4 "Jessica Cartwright: Part 2"
- COLLEGE Episode 207 "A College Christmas"
- DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM Season 3 Episode 5 "The Gift of Rosary"
- EMPIRE Episode 3.5 "Special Delivery"
- END RESULT Part 1 "You Must Be Merrek"
- I BREATHE THIS Episode 9 "You Buggin' Out" (explicit)
- KOLE'S LAW Episode 106 "Guilty as Charged, Part Two"
- MISS BEHAVE Episode 2.1 "Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow"
- ORANGE JUICE IN BISHOP'S GARDEN Episode 3.6 "And Then There Were Three"
- THE BAY Chapter 3, Webisode 10
- VENICE Season 2 Episode 10 (subscription)
- VENUS SPA Episode 2.12 "Prank Wars II: Strip and Rip!"
- WESTERN X Episodes 1-3

RESULTS: Daytime Soap of the Week Poll

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Daytime Soap of the Week" poll for the week of December 13-17, 2010. DAYS OF OUR LIVES remained in the top spot for the fourth consecutive week.



Check back on Friday when this week's polling begins.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Kathryn Joosten (Karen, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES; ex-Ida, GENERAL HOSPITAL) - 71

ABC Overnight Anchor Previews ONE LIFE TO LIVE Appearance

ABC's overnight co-anchor Vinita Nair went behind-the-scenes of ABC's soap opera ONE LIFE TO LIVE -- and even has a speaking role as Dr. Nair in an upcoming episode in January 2011. Watch her preview below.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Sam Kelly (ex-Bob, CORONATION STREET; ex-Graham, DOCTORS) - 66
Christopher Goutman (Ex-Executive Producer, AS THE WORLD TURNS/ANOTHER WORLD; ex-Marc, SEARCH FOR TOMORROW; ex-Matt, THE EDGE OF NIGHT; ex-George, TEXAS; et al) - 58
Alice Barrett (ex-Frankie/Anne, ANOTHER WORLD) - 53
A.J. Lamas (ex-Rafi, As The World Turns) - 26

The Latest in the Eric Braeden vs. Neil Patrick Harris Saga

Neil Patrick Harris took to Twitter on Friday to express his anger over Eric Braeden bailing at the last minute on his guest spot on HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER.

Eric Braeden is a D-Bag. The actor, (Robin's dad) agreed to a cameo, then last night bailed, saying the part wasn't 'substantial' enough.

Predictably, Braeden fought back through his usual PR channels.

It seems to me like a young whippersnapper, having seen himself on a few covers, who's received a few awards, is now suddenly suffering from the first signs of hubris. I really don't know who that fellow is. He's a guy who stars in that series. It's very unfortunate. First of all, I came back from hip surgery. I was off for three weeks. I've doubled my work, 30 to 50 pages a day for me, alone. Everyone knows that I'm exhausted. I was not about to appear on a show for two lines, because that's what it amounted to.

Harris backtracked on his original comment fairly quickly.

Now I feel bad for the D-bag comment. Don't know the guy personally. I'm just fiercely protective of our show.

Much ado about nothing? What do you think?

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Ray Liotta (ex-Joey, ANOTHER WORLD) - 56
Shawn Christian (Daniel, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Mike, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Ross, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 45
Casper Van Dien (ex-Ty, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 42

VOTE: Daytime Soap of the Week Poll

Which daytime soap was your favorite the week of December 13-17, 2010? Vote in the weekly WE LOVE SOAPS TV poll below and check back on Monday morning for the results.

Voting ends at 9 a.m. ET on Monday.

Free Web poll for your Web site - freepolls.com

Anthony Anderson: The WLS Interview, Part Three

In Parts One and Two of our interview with ANACOSTIA's Anthony Anderson, the talented auteur revealed how he survived bullying and taunting in school, why the suburb of Anacostia in D.C. inspired him, and how he learned to tell such fun sudsy stories.  In Part Three below, Anderson discusses the controversy around his primary gay character's suicide attempt, and highs and lows of directing himself in explicit sex scenes.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: ANACOSTIA is able to entertain and broaden viewer’s horizons while remaining true to its central core characters.  Where I think daytime has often goes wrong is in ignoring the relationships between the characters that viewers began watching in the first place.  ANACOSTIA has expanded, but remains true to the friendship between Sean, Mia, Selena, and Nicole.  It starts with that foursome and works outward from that.
Anthony Anderson: Thank you for recognizing that.  We try to make it that way.  There are a few guest stars that are coming in.  Viewers respond by asking, “Who is this person, who is that person?” Well there are other people who live in this neighborhood.  You’ve got to introduce them in the first season, then introduce new people and see how they relate to one another.  Season one was all about mystery of who shot Michael.  Season two is all about secrets and lies, and how they can be deadly if they are not taken care of.  Everyone now has some kind of secret, some kind of lie.  Each person is trying to deal with it in their own way.  Some are minor, some are major as you will see by the season finale.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: If there was from a traditional daytime actor about being in ANACOSTIA, what would your response be?

NEWS: NPH Blasts Braeden, Francisco San Martin, Bill Pullman

Neil Patrick Harris: "Eric Braeden is a D-Bag"
From his Twitter account: "Eric Braeden is a D-Bag. the actor, (Robin's dad) agreed to a cameo, then last night bailed, saying the part wasn't 'substantial' enough. We've recast with Ray Wise, a fantastic actor who makes any part 'substantial'. Super excited to welcome him to the family!"

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Clive Robertson (ex-Ben/Derek, SUNSET BEACH) - 45
Sonia Satra (ex-Barbara, ONE LIFE TO LIVE; ex-Lucy, GUIDING LIGHT) - 39
Napiera Groves (ex-Bonnie, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 35
Mark Lawson (Brody, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 32

New DALLAS Ready To Move On Without Larry Hagman Over Money

After one of the longest courtships in recent TV history, TNT is prepared to proceed with its DALLAS reboot without original star Larry Hagman over salary issues, according to Deadline.com's Nellie Andreeva.

While Gray and Duffy had agreed to join the pilot, the network and the studio have not been able to reach a deal with Hagman who has been holding out for more money. (Make that a lot of money.) With the situation at a stalemate more than 3 months in, I hear the project's producers have come up with an alternative plan for the project that doesn't include Hagman, with J.R. represented only through archive footage from the original series.

Ex-MELROSE PLACE Star Amy Locane Charged With Manslaughter

A grand jury has indicted Amy Locane for the alleged drunk driving accident that killed a woman in New Jersey. Locane faces a manslaughter charge that could put her behind bars for 10 to 30 years and a an assault by auto charge that calls for 5 to 10 years behind bars. She played Sandy on the original MELROSE PLACE.

Don't Miss Eileen Fulton on the Daytime Confidential Podcast

Daytime legend Eileen Fulton appeared on the latest Daytime Confidential podcast today with Jamey Giddens and Luke Kerr. She discussed some of the highlights of her storied career and previewed her upcoming holiday show. Be sure to listen to the interview here.

Also, if you in the New York City area on Friday, December 17, don't miss Fulton at Don't Tell Mama at 7 p.m. performing "I Remember… or At Least I Try." Fulton will add her signature flair to such classic standards as "River," "Blue Moon," and "Stormy Weather," among others. She will also perform a special rendition of "Santa Man," a song in which she wrote music and lyrics.

The show has a $25 music charge with a two drink minimum. Don’t Tell Mama is located at 343 W. 46th Street, between 8th & 9th avenues. Reservations are required. Please call (212) 757-0788.

WATCH: THE BAY Chapter 3, Webisode 10

This week's episode of THE BAY features the debut of Lane Davies as Mackenzie Johnson. Will Pete survive? Who did Marly call? Watch THE BAY below.

WATCH: MISS BEHAVE Season Two Premiere

MISS BEHAVE is back with its second season premiere, "Parting Is Such Sweet Sorrow." As Tori and Dylan say goodbye to their roles as Romeo and Juliet, we meet a movie star client of the Queen just as an unexpected guest stops by to wreak havoc on the wrap party. Watch it below.

17th Annual SAG Awards Nominations

Nominees for the 17th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® for outstanding performances in 2010 in five film and eight primetime television categories and for the SAG honors for film and television stunt ensembles were announced this morning in Los Angeles at the Pacific Design Center’s SilverScreen Theater in West Hollywood. The 17th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards will be simulcast live nationally on TNT and TBS on Sunday, Jan. 30 from the Los Angeles Shrine Exposition Center.

See the full list of nominees below including James Franco, Chris Colfer, Jane Lynch and several other current and former soap stars.

NEWS: Hallelujah, CORRIE Move, Matt Morrison, Joanna Going

CORONATION STREET set to be rebuilt in Salford Quays
Filming will move from the current Granada complex in central Manchester in 2012. The 7.7-acre site, which still needs planning permission, will also give the soap the option of expanding with the building of new parts of Weatherfield.

Marc Cherry sets up new drama at ABC
Cherry is developing the drama HALLELUJAH at ABC. Project centers on tiny Hallelujah, Tenn., which finds itself being torn apart by the forces of good and evil. Things begin to look up, however, when a stranger moves into town, looking to bring justice, peace and a little bit of faith to its residents.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Ben Cross (ex-Barnabas, DARK SHADOWS) - 63
Florencia Lozano (Téa, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 41
Daniel Cosgrove (Scott, ALL MY CHILDREN; ex-Chris, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Bill, GUIDING LIGHT) - 40
Paul Leyden (Blake, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS; ex-Simon, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 38
Jack Krizmanich (John, PASSIONS) - 32
Scott Bailey (ex-Sandy, GUIDING LIGHT; ex-Stan, UNDRESSED) - 32

Anthony Anderson: The WLS Interview, Part Two

In Part One of our interview with Anthony Anderson, the creator/producer/star/mastermind behind the hit indie soap ANACOSTIA revealed how he survived bullying and taunting as a child, and shared his advice to gay youth considering suicide now.  In Part Two below, Anderson discusses why the suburb of Anacostia became his creative muse, and how he learned to craft such satisfying soapy stories. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Let’s talk about the actual city of Anacostia. How did this become the center point of your soap?
Anthony Anderson: Anacostia is a suburb in Washington, DC in the Southeast area, which does not have the most sterling reputation.  If you listen to the writers and the producers of the TV show BONES, it’s like Little Beirut [EDITOR'S NOTE: BONES presented an offensive and negative episode about Anacostia in early November, 2010].  I was floored when I saw that episode.  I thought, “Really? Obviously you have never driven through Anacostia, you’re just basing this off what you heard.”

It is going through a revitalization.  They’re bringing in new businesses and developing things to take the area to where it can be.  I decided to call the show ANACOSTIA because I knew the messages I wanted to bring in the show, and I knew that when people heard "Anacostia" that they would think it was seedy, crime riddled, very dark and gritty.  What I did was turn that around and showed these characters in a very positive light.  Everyone has very professional jobs, lives in a great neighborhood.  People look at the show and they see Anacostia a little differently.  That is where the area is going.  It is getting more single story homes, more town homes, more businesses, and more Caucasian residents that are moving in.  There is a baseball field now, more grocery stores, more retail outlets.  It is definitely coming up, every day it gets better.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Did you ever live there?
Anthony Anderson: I grew up there, was born and raised until high school when we moved to Maryland. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: How did the stories about the residents of Anacostia come to you?

New Single From Jonathan Jackson's Band, Enation Releases "Glorious"

Just in time for the holidays, Jonathan Jackson's band, Enation, released a new single today called "Glorious".

It's a song that Jonathan wrote that Enation thought would be perfect for the holiday and Christmas season.

The song talks about holding onto innocence and wonder, even as you get older.

The single is available on CDBaby today and will be available on iTunes in the next of couple weeks:

You can find it on CDBaby at CDBaby.com.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Thaao Penghlis (ex-Tony/Andre, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Micah, SANTA BARBARA; ex-Victor, GENERAL HOSPITAL) - 65
Michael Shanks (Carter, SMALLVILLE) - 40
Andre Khabbazi (ex-Alec, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS; ex-Oscar, SUNSET BEACH) - 35
Adam Brody (ex-Seth, THE O.C.) - 31

NEWS: Next GH Tragedy, Ellen Dolan, Mekhi Phifer, Patrick Gibbons

Scoop on the Next GENERAL HOSPITAL Tragedy
ABC's GENERAL HOSPITAL will kick off the new year by sending its young ones — ranging in age from tots to teenagers — on a Christmas vacation bus trip to snow country. That bus is forced to take an unplanned route due to weather trouble and will skid on black ice and flip over during the December 29 cliffhanger. When the show returns January 3, the bus will plummet down a steep ravine, thanks to some cool CGI tricks.

Says executive producer Jill Farren Phelps. "There will be death. In fact, two people die — one immediately and one later on as a result of an injury."

WATCH: New ALL MY CHILDREN Opening

ALL MY CHILDREN is set to debut a brand new opener on Wednesday, December 22. Watch below.

WATCH: EMPIRE Season 3 Episode 5 "Special Delivery"

Find out who killed Alex Russo on today's all new episode of EMPIRE. Watch it below.

Golden Globe Nominations Announced

The nominations for the 68th annual Golden Globes were announced this morning. In the television categories - GLEE led the way with five nominations. MAD MEN and DEXTER each score three noms. James Franco was nominated for his role in 127 Hours.

Read the full list of nominees below.

1. Best Supporting Actress in a series - mini-series or TV movie
Hope Davis - The Special Relationship
Jane Lynch - GLEE
Kelly McDonald - BOARDWALK EMPIRE
Julia Stiles - DEXTER
Sofia Vergara - MODERN FAMILY

2. Best Actress in a TV series - comedy
Toni Collette - UNITED STATES OF TARA
Edie Falco - NURSE JACKIE
Tina Fey - 30 ROCK
Laura Linney - THE BIG C
Lea Michele - GLEE

RESULTS: Indie Soap of the Week Poll

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Indie Soap of the Week" poll for the week of December 5-11, 2010. The latest episode of a new and improved THE BAY finished in the top spot. VENICE landed in second but still racked up the shows record 16th appearance in the Top 3. ANACOSTIA didn't have its highest ranking but one of its highest vote totals ever. In fact, the entire Top 9 was very well-represented this week.



If you're a fan of any of these shows, we encourage you to check out some of the other series you may not have watched yet. This past week was a particularly good week for indie soaps both drama and comedy (see the list below for links).

Indie soaps that aired one or more episodes last week were eligible. Check back on Saturday when this week's polling begins and keep supporting your favorite indie shows by voting. But more importantly watch them and spread the word.

Watch last week's indie soaps below:
- ANACOSTIA Season 2 Episode 7 "A House Is Not A Home"
- COLLEGE Episode 205 "The New Bed"
- DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM Season 3 Episode 4 Burnt Beans"
- EMPIRE Episode 3.4 "A New Normal"
- IN BETWEEN MEN Episodes 1 & 2 (series premiere)
- MONTREAL HEARTS Episode 13 "reg@home" (season finale)
- ORANGE JUICE IN BISHOP'S GARDEN Episode 3.5 "Doors of Perception"
- PRETTY Season 2 Episode 5
- SWATS Episode 7
- THE BAY Chapter 3, Webisode 9
- TRAILER MADE Webisode 4
- VENICE Season 2 Episode 9 (subscription)
- VENUS SPA Episode 2.11 "Prank Wars I: Rub N Tug?"

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Elaine Princi (ex-Dorian, ONE LIFE TO LIVE; ex-Linda, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Miranda, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Kathryn, ANOTHER WORLD) - 64
Celia Weston (ex-Gloria, RYAN'S HOPE) - 59
Noelle Beck (ex-Lily, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Trisha, LOVING) - 42
Tammy Blanchard (ex-Drew, GUIDING LIGHT) - 34

NEWS: FNL Returnees, Eric Mabius, Jake Silbermann, 15M For CORRIE

CW Unveils Midseason Schedule, HELLCATS Moves To Tuesdays
The CW today became the latest network to release its mid-season schedule. With only one hole to fill, that of departing sophomore LIFE UNEXPECTED which did not receive a back order. The network is moving freshman drama HELLCATS to LUX's Tuesday 9 p.m. slot behind ONE TREE HILL. The rest of the schedule will remain intact. The majority of the CW’s primetime schedule will return with originals the week of January 24, with the season (and probably series) finale of LUX slated to air in back to back episodes on Jan. 18.

BIG BROTHER's Rachel Reilly Talks Scandal and Soaps
Brendon Villegas, whom she met and fell in love with on BIG BROTHER, sent photos of his naked genitals to a woman he met online. (In an apology video, Villegas claims he was being blackmailed). The incident abruptly ended Reilly's relationship with Villegas. It may also have ended his gig on THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL. Reilly plays a waitress at the show's Bikini Beach restaurant. Villegas had been playing a bartender there, at least until the scandal broke. She was invited back for the January episode. He wasn't.

Van Hansis: Being An Open Book Is The Best Way To Go

WE LOVE SOAPS TV recently traveled to Los Angeles and spoke with three-time Emmy nominee Van Hansis, best known to soap fans for his run as Luke Snyder on AS THE WORLD TURNS. He's currently starring in the soon to be released film, Occupant, a thriller that tells the story of his character, Danny Hill. In addition to what aired during the episode featuring Hansis, the actor also spoke about his career aspirations and how he doesn't limit himself to any one genre or specific roles.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: When you started at Carnegie Mellon, what were your aspirations? Did you want to do everything - theater, film?

RESULTS: Daytime Soap of the Week Poll

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Daytime Soap of the Week" poll for the week of December 6-10, 2010. DAYS OF OUR LIVES remained in the top spot for the third consecutive week.



Check back on Friday when this week's polling begins.

Anthony Anderson: The WLS Interview, Part One

Few indie soaps have amazed and inspired as much as Anthony Anderson's ANACOSTIA.  Without star power or ties to Hollywood, Anderson has set the Indie Soap Revolution on its ear by spinning traditional soap elements into fresh and innovative character development and plot twists. Yet, as you will see in this interview, Anderson doesn't just work tirelessly day and night on producing a quality show.  He also is devoted to giving back to his real-life community of Anacostia, as well as promoting the wellness of gays and African-Americans across the United States.  For those of you who have yet to watch ANACOSTIA, it is my profound honor to introduce to you Anthony Anderson, a name you will be hearing much more often in 2011.

In Part One of our interview below, Anderson discusses how he began creating stories as a child, surviving extreme bullying in school, and the devastation of losing a sibling. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: Anthony, it is always so wonderful to speak with you.  You are the actor, writer, director, and creator of the wonderful indie soap ANACOSTIA.  How did you come to be this creative force?
Anthony Anderson: My mother always told me, “A person who wears many hats is always employed.”  Someone who can do multiple jobs at their job will always be valued.  To be honest, I wasn’t supposed to be acting in ANACOSTIA, someone else was supposed to be playing the role [of Sean].  At the last minute they couldn’t do it so I had to fall into it.  I have always enjoyed writing short stories and pretty much getting what’s in my head on paper.  This show has been a great vehicle for that.  A lot of people initially did not know what a web series was, so when I asked people to come and direct and do all that stuff they generally said no. So I fell into those niches by circumstance. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: What kinds of stories were you writing growing up?

WLS Book Review: DAYS OF OUR LIVES 45 Years: A Celebration In Photos

If you have been a soap fan for any length of time, then chances are you have a very beautiful but somewhat out-of-date coffee table book of your favorite show, either past or present.  During the mid-late 90s, most shows put out an elegant and historical pictorial featuring plot synopses and rare pictures.  Authors Greg Meng and Eddie Campbell have updated and upgraded this concept by offering an aesthetically gorgeous and fascinating look behind the scenes in the new book "DAYS OF OUR LIVES 45 Years: A Celebration In Photos."

Yes, there are plenty of historical pictures from 1965 onward that have never been published before. You see actors reading cue cards in the Horton living room, Suzanne Rogers (Maggie) getting her hair done in 1974, Josh Taylor (Roman) and James Reynolds (Abe) playing basketball on a lunch break, and more.  What DAYS fans have also never previously viewed are the structural compositions of the show.  From blue prints of each set, to wedding dress designs, to the wardrobe racks, to the drawers which hold each character's props, to the action in the make-up room, never before have viewers of a daytime soap given the opportunity to see so much behind-the-scenes details. 

NEWS: Survival of Soap Opera, P&G, ARCHERS, Matthew Morrison

The Survival of Soap Opera (Part Four): Why Fans Matter
The final section of Henry Jenkins' "The Survival of Soap Opera" series focuses on the evolution of fan community practices online, on various soap opera fan experiences/demographics, and on relations between the soap opera industry and its fans. A variety of the contributors to this section (including WE LOVE SOAPS TV's Roger Newcomb) answer questions about the relationships fans have with the soap operas they watch and with one another.

Fans of THE ARCHERS should prepare for a shock, says Vanessa Whitburn
The editor of the popular Radio 4 series says the 60th anniversary episode will shake Ambridge to the core."

Catch Up on Season Two of WE LOVE SOAPS TV

In case you've missed any of the recent episodes of our web series, WE LOVE SOAPS TV, you can catch up below. Van Hansis, Crystal Chappell, Kimberly McCullough, Florencia Lozano and Trent Dawson are among the many stars to guest on the show so far. Stay tuned for more exciting developments over the next few years and in 2011.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Heather North (ex-Sandy, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Kitty, PARADISE BAY) - 60
Wendie Malick (ex-Carol, DYNASTY) - 60
Christie Clark (ex-Carrie, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Cindy, GENERAL HOSPITAL) - 37

Gwyneth Paltrow Returning to GLEE

Gwyneth Paltrow is coming back for more GLEE. The Oscar winner will reprise her role as McKinley High’s favorite substitute teacher, Holly Holiday, for a second episode, Gwyneth revealed to ACCESS HOLLYWOOD on Sunday during the press junket for her new film, Country Strong. No word on when her second episode will be taped or air.

Paltrow's version of "Forget You" has been one of the highlights of the second GLEE season. Watch it below.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV Interview Archive: Colleen Zenk

Actress.  Soap Legend. Oral Cancer Survivor.  Educator. Singer. Dancer.  These are just a few adjectives to describe the inspiring legend Colleen Zenk.  Her next role, with your help, will be as a contestant on ABC's DANCING WITH THE STARS.  With three simple steps YOU can be part of making the dream come true for Zenk and the millions of people who were touched by her performances as Barbara Ryan on AS THE WORLD TURNS these past 32 years. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV recently sat down to speak with Zenk and reflect upon her career as Barbara Ryan, surviving oral cancer, and coping with recent hardships.  If you haven't already seen our interview from September 2010, please take a moment to learn about this gorgeous talent, and then consider letting ABC know how you feel about her appearing on DANCING WITH THE STARS.  It can happen!
 
In Part One - The daytime legend discussed her pre-WORLD TURNS roots, starting her 32-year-run on the show, and Barbara's classic gothic romances with James Stenbeck and Gunnar St. Clair.

In Part Two - Zenk recalls her years flourishing under Douglas Marland's writing, and the dearth of airtime that followed.  How did she deal with being put "off the stove"? Find out here!

In Part Three  - Zenk discusses working with Larry Bryggman (John Dixon) and Benjamin Hendrickson (Hal Munson).  Plus, for the first time, she shares insight into the suicide of Hendrickson in 2006.

In Part Four - Zenk shares her thoughts on how ATWT may have continued to thrive in this economy, Barbara's role under Hogan Sheffer, and the real life challenges that continue to impact her today.

In Part Five - In this candid section, she reveals her personal struggles and hardships in recent years, and the story behind her roof-blowing performance at We Love Soaps Weekend in May 2010.

In Part Six - Zenk shares her thoughts on Barbara's relationship with Henry, how she dealt with the ageism jokes on screen, and her status as a "gay icon."  Plus, what has she learned from portraying Barbara Ryan for 32 years? Find out here!

Damon L. Jacobs is a Licensed Therapist now accepting new clients in New York City.  He is also the author of the popular book "Absolutely Should-less: The Secret to Living the Stress-Free Life You Deserve." For more information about scheduling an appointment, please email him at Shouldless@gmail.com.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Dan Hamilton (ex-David, GUIDING LIGHT; ex-Robert, THE SECRET STORM; ex-Hal, ALL MY CHILDREN; ex-Jeff, ANOTHER WORLD; ex-Wade, THE EDGE OF NIGHT; ex-Thornton, AS THE WORLD TURNS) - 65
Wings Hauser (ex-Greg, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS) - 63
Ana Alicia (ex-Melissa, FALCON CREST; ex-Alicia, RH) - 53
Holly Gagnier (ex-Ivy, DAYS OF OUR LIVES; ex-Cassie, ONE LIFE TO LIVE) - 48
Burke Moses (ex-Curtis, LOVING; ex-Briggs, GUIDING LIGHT; ex-Sean, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Bulge, ONE LIFE TO LIVE; ex-Andrew, ALL MY CHILDREN) - 46

VOTE: Indie Soap of the Week Poll

Which indie soap was your favorite last week? Support your favorite continuing drama and vote in the weekly WE LOVE SOAPS TV poll below. Check back on Tuesday morning for the results (voting ends Tuesday at 9 a.m. ET). Only the shows that aired one or more new episodes from December 5-11, 2010 are listed. Based on release schedules, the shows in the poll will change weekly.

If an indie soap aired this week and is not on the list, feel free to cast your vote as "Other" and add a note in the Comments section of this post.



Watch this week's indie soaps below:
- ANACOSTIA Season 2 Episode 7 "A House Is Not A Home"
- COLLEGE Episode 205 "The New Bed"
- DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM Season 3 Episode 4 Burnt Beans"
- EMPIRE Episode 3.4 "A New Normal"
- IN BETWEEN MEN Episodes 1 & 2 (series premiere)
- MONTREAL HEARTS Episode 13 "reg@home" (season finale)
- ORANGE JUICE IN BISHOP'S GARDEN Episode 3.5 "Doors of Perception"
- PRETTY Season 2 Episode 5
- SWATS Episode 7
- THE BAY Chapter 3, Webisode 9
- TRAILER MADE Webisode 4
- VENICE Season 2 Episode 9 (subscription)
- VENUS SPA Episode 2.11 "Prank Wars I: Rub N Tug?"

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Rita Moreno (ex-Sister Peter Marie, OZ) - 79
Patrick Tovatt (ex-Cal, AS THE WORLD TURNS; ex-Zane, ANOTHER WORLD; ex-Matt, SEARCH FOR TOMORROW; ex-Chuck, GUIDING LIGHT; ex-Richard, RYAN'S HOPE) - 70

VOTE: Daytime Soap of the Week Poll

Which daytime soap was your favorite the week of December 6-10, 2010? Vote in the weekly WE LOVE SOAPS TV poll below and check back on Monday morning for the results.

Voting ends at 9 a.m. ET on Monday.

Free Web poll for your Web site - freepolls.com

NEWS: Michael Gross, Darius McCrary, Kalup and Franco, MTS

Michael Gross to Play Same-Sex Love Interest on BROTHER'S & SISTERS
His character is a romantic foil for Ron Rifkin's Saul.

Darius McCrary: I Never Hit Karrine Steffans!
Darius claims it's all part of a divorce gone wrong ... adding, it's clear his ex -- famous video vixen Karrine Steffans -- "didn't take the finality of the divorce well and has resorted to her old tricks of public defamation."

Nelson's Aspen Exposes "Secrets"!

Nelson Aspen's divine tell-almost-all book Nelson Aspen Hollywood Insider Exposed!: Secrets, Stars, & Showbiz is a breath of fresh air compared to most of the salacious mean-spirited stories about celebrities that are published daily in books and magazines. His humble respect and fascination for entertainers shines through in his memoirs, interviews, and observations. From beloved SEARCH FOR TOMORROW matriarch Mary Stuart to paparazzi queen Angelina Jolie, Aspen dishes sweet, memorable, and fascinating anecdotes.

I for one could not dare put this book down for fear of going one more moment without learning insider secrets about Hugh Grant, ANOTHER WORLD'S Anne Heche, or the legendary Meryl Streep. But the creme de la creme comes in the chapter where Aspen shares details of his self-described "inglorious movie career" in the 1980's. What was it like playing a male prostitute opposite Judge Reinhold? You will just have to pick up this book to find out!

If you have ever found yourself guiltily peeking through a tabloid, wishing you could learn more juicy tidbits without feeling ashamed of yourself, then THIS is absolutely the book for you!

S.A.S.S. [Short Attention Soap Summary]

WHAT IS IT: Nelson Aspen Hollywood Insider Exposed!: Secrets, Stars, & Showbiz
a fun and juicy holiday read.

WHY SOAP FANS WILL LOVE IT: Aspen includes plenty of soapy tidbits for historians, especially up-close and personal insights about SEARCH FOR TOMORROW's Mary Stuart.

BOTTOM LINE: This read is a fun for anyone who enjoys learning about celebrity culture.  It makes for a very memorable gift!

VERDICT: Don't miss these Secrets! Order the book now!

Damon L. Jacobs is a Licensed Therapist now accepting new clients in New York City.  He is also the author of the popular book "Absolutely Should-less: The Secret to Living the Stress-Free Life You Deserve." For more information about scheduling an appointment, please email him at Shouldless@gmail.com.

Katherine Kelly Lang - The Exclusive WLS Interview, Part Four

In Parts One,  Two, and Three of our interview with Katherine Kelly Lang, the beloved actress revealed her insights into Brooke's resilience on THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL, why audiences still love her, and the challenges of keeping the character balanced between "bad and good."  In the final part below, Lang shares how she deals with flack from audience members, and life lessons learned from playing Brooke. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: How do you keep Brooke Logan Forrester so alive and vital after nearly 24 years?
Katherine Kelly Lang: I think a lot of that comes from me.  I’m a kind of a vibrant, full of life, positive person who is usually pretty happy.  A lot of that goes into Brooke.  I try to keep that energy going because that what draws people to want to watch.  They want to see that energy and personality coming from somebody, as opposed to a negative downer. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: In a recent episode of B&B, Thomas said to Brooke, “No one creates a spectacle better than you.” 

Larry Hagman To Appear on DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES

Larry Hagman returns to the land of primetime soaps with a guest role on ABC's Desperate Housewives, The Hollywood Reporter is reporting.

The DALLAS star will arrive on Wisteria Lane early next year as a love interest for Stella Wingfield, Lynette Scavo's (Felicity Huffman) mother, played by Polly Bergen.

Hagman also confirmed that talks are still in progress for a modern-day DALLAS reboot on TNT, which would include participation by Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray. Based on a script he's read, the new incarnation will "concentrate on the kids and grandkids," says Hagman. "We're negotiating right now."

Darius McCrary Accused of Belting Ex-Wife

TMZ is reporting that Y&R's Darius McCrary has been ordered to stay at least 100 yards away from his ex-wife after allegedly beating her with a belt. Read the story below.

The guy who played Eddie Winslow on "Family Matters" has been temporarily ordered to stay at least 100 yards away from his ex-wife after allegedly beating her with a belt ... in front of her son.

The woman behind the accusations is famed video vixen Karrine Steffans -- who filed legal papers in L.A. ... describing two separate violent encounters with 34-year-old Darius McCrary.

Karrine claims McCrary struck again in November -- choking her and shoving her into a car in front of a large crowd of people at the Sunset Marquis Hotel in L.A.

Now Karrine is asking the judge to make the restraining order more permanent -- she's scheduled to appear in court next week.

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Gloria Loring (ex-Liz, DAYS OF OUR LIVES) - 64
John J. York (Mac, GENERAL HOSPITAL) - 52
Nia Peeples (Pam, PRETTY LITTLE LIARS; ex-Karen, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS; ex-Carla, GENERAL HOPSITAL; ex-Mallory, DAYS OF OUR LIVES) - 49
Gavin Houston (Tony, THE BAY; ex-Remy, GUIDING LIGHT; ex-Damien, ROCKLAND COUNTY) - 33

WATCH: THE BAY Chapter 3, Webisode 9

THE BAY is back with the first part of Chapter three which features a new logo, faster pace, improved sound and more. Will Pete survive? Does Brian have answers for Zoey and Elliot? And who the hell does Lianna think she is? That's what Janice wants to know. Watch all the drama unfold below.

Colleen Zenk On DANCING WITH THE STARS (?)

In a recent interview with Colleen Zenk, the acclaimed actress from AS THE WORLD TURNS recalled her time on the beloved and much missed soap, as well as her aspirations to continue entertaining, singing, and dancing on stage.  Thanks to Zenk's passionate fanbase, that day may be coming sooner than later. As of today, the gorgeous talent announced that her agents have been contacted by ABC'S DANCING WITH THE STARS to possibly appear as a contestant during the upcoming Season Twelve.  But the work is not done yet!  If you want to support Colleen Zenk and her chance to share her phenomenal talents in prime-time, please take a moment to go:

1. Go to ABC.com's DANCING WITH THE STARS page.  Register your name so you can leave a comment requesting Zenk's appearance on Season 12.

2. Join the FaceBook Group supporting Zenk's efforts.  Yes, they do look at those things!

3. Retweet and link the ABC.com address to friends so they can do it too. 

Together we can do this!  Let's get Zenk on the air!! 

NEWS: B&B Canceled in Netherlands, Destiny's Child, Freddie Smith

90210: Meet Teddy’s New [Major Spoiler Alert]!
On the heels of Teddy's first man-on-man smooch with current love interest Ian (Kyle Riabko), the increasingly addictive CW soap has cast newcomer Freddie Smith to play Teddy’s super-athletic and friendly new beau Marco.

GLEE's Blaine, Kurt to Deliver Super Bowl episode Destiny's Child Cover
They will belt out a cover of the Destiny’s Child tune “Bills Bills Bills” during the show’s post-Super Bowl episode on February 6.

Nathan Parsons To Join Maurice Benard On Stage

GENERAL HOSPITAL's Maurice Benard (Sonny) heads to the East Coast in Januar for a handful of public appearances. Making his first ever fan appearances, Nathan Parsons (Ethan) will be Benard's very special co-star at three of the events.

50 Years Ago Today: CORONATION STREET Debuted

CORONATION STREET debuted on December 9, 1960. The ITV1 soap will mark its 50th anniversary later tonight with an hour-long live episode, set in the aftermath of the tram crash that devastated the street this week.

Two characters are expected to die during the episode, which features a cast of 65.

CORRIE's last live broadcast was in 2000 to mark the soap's 40th anniversary.

Here are some interesting new articles which talk about the anniversary:
- An A-Z of Coronation Street, 50 years old today
- Why Coronation Street is so special
- Coronation Street: 50 years on and still the pride of the north-west
- Corrie's Ken Barlow takes a stroll down memory lane
- CORRIE'S 50 BEST MOMENTS

RESULTS: Indie Soap of the Week Poll

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Indie Soap of the Week" poll for the week of November 28-December 4, 2010. VENICE remained in the top spot for the second week in a row. If you're a fan of any of these shows, we encourage you to check out some of the other series you may not have watched yet.

Rank/Show (Last Week/Weeks in Top 3)
1. VENICE (1/15)
2. ANACOSTIA (-/6)
3. VENUS SPA (3/2)
4. EMPIRE (-/11)
5. DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM (4/4)
6. MONTREAL HEARTS (3/3)
7. ALPHA PLANET (-/0)
8. ORANGE JUICE IN BISHOP'S GARDEN (18/0)
9. KOLE'S LAW (-/0)
10. AVE 43 (-/0)
11. THE RENFIELD SYNDOME (11/0)
12. DAZE (9/0)
13. COLLEGE (-/1)
14. BREAK (-/0)

Indie soaps that aired one or more episodes last week were eligible. Check back on Saturday when this week's polling begins and keep supporting your favorite indie shows by voting. But more importantly watch them and spread the word.

Watch last week's indie soaps below:
- ALPHA PLANET Episode 107 "Left Behind"
- ANACOSTIA Season 2 Episode 6 "One For The Road"
- AVE 43 Chapter 21
- BREAK Episode 1.1
- COLLEGE Episode 205 "Fro-yo"
- DAZE Episode 4
- DIARY OF A SINGLE MOM Season 3 Episode 3 "Running on Empty"
- EMPIRE Episode 3.3 "Strange Bedfellows"
- KOLE'S LAW Episode 105 "Guilty as Charged, Part One"
- MONTREAL HEARTS Episode 12 "V.I.P."
- ORANGE JUICE IN BISHOP'S GARDEN Episode 3.4 "Cavort in the Bog"
- THE RENFIELD SYNDOME Episode 11
- VENICE Season 2 Episode 7 (subscription)
- VENUS SPA Episode 2.10 "Smurf Molester!"

Today's Soap World Birthdays

Dick Van Patten (ex-Larry, YOUNG DOCTOR MALONE) - 82
Joe Lando (ex-Jake, ONE LIFE TO LIVE; ex-Macauley, GUIDING LIGHT) - 49
Felicity Huffman (Lynette, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES) - 48
Jesse Metcalfe (ex-Miguel, PASSIONS) - 32

TRIVIA: DAYS OF OUR LIVES legend Frances Reid would have been 96 today. She died on February 3.

James Franco Returning to GENERAL HOSPITAL

TV Guide Magazine is reporting that James Franco will be returning to GENERAL HOSPITAL in 2011.

James Franco couldn't be cooler - and hotter - these days. The guy has earned the reviews of a lifetime for his performance in 127 Hours. He's considered a shoo-in Academy Award nominee for best actor. And he and Anne Hathaway have been picked to co-host the Oscar ceremony on Sunday, February 27. But he's not forgetting about GENERAL HOSPITAL! Franco, who twice appeared on the ABC soap as a serial killer, has agreed to return for a two-episode stint airing the Friday before the Oscar telecast and the day after. It'll serve as a teaser for a longer story arc he plans to do on the serial later in 2011.

WGA Nominations: ATWT, GH, OLTL, GLEE, FNL, LOST & More

The Writers Guild of America, East and the Writers Guild of America, West have announced nominations for outstanding achievement in television, news, radio, promotional writing, and graphic animation during the 2010 season to be honored at the 2011 Writers Guild Awards on February 5, 2011, in New York and Los Angeles.

Here are the television nominees in soap-related categories:

DAYTIME SERIAL
* AS THE WORLD TURNS, Written by Susan Dansby, Lucky Gold, Janet Iacobuzio, Penelope Koechl, David Kreizman, Leah Laiman, David A. Levinson, Leslie Nipkow, Jean Passanante, Gordon Rayfield, David Smilow; CBS
* GENERAL HOSPITAL, Written by Meg Bennett, Nathan Fissell, David Goldschmid, Robert Guza, Jr., Karen Harris, Elizabeth Korte, Mary Sue Price, David F. Ryan, Tracey Thomson, Michele Val Jean, Susan Wald; ABC
* ONE LIFE TO LIVE, Written by Shelly Altman, Ron Carlivati, Anna Theresa Cascio, Aida Croal, Carolyn Culliton, Frederick Johnson, Elizabeth Page, Gordon Rayfield, Melissa Salmons, Katherine Schock, Scott Sickles, Courtney Simon, Chris VanEtten; ABC

Commemorating 60 Years of Soap Operas on CBS-TV

Commemorating 60 Years of Soap Operas on CBS-TV
By Rob Wargo

On December 4, 1950, CBS-TV aired its very first daytime soap opera – THE FIRST HUNDRED YEARS – sponsored by Procter & Gamble. The series starred James Lydon as “Chris Thayer,” who married “Connie Martin” (played originally by Olive Stacey and later by Anne Sargent) during the first week of the series, and thereafter moved his new bride into a decrepit three-story Victorian mansion. The couple’s problems with their living quarters, their middle in-laws, including Connie’s sister Margy, and the typical problems any newlyweds face gave credence to the show’s title, a reference to the old staying that the “first 100 years of marriage are the hardest.”

The series was produced on a budget of $8,650 per week and was directed by Gloria Monty, who subsequently directed THE SECRET STORM and produced GENERAL HOSPITAL.

Maggie's Morality on DAYS OF OUR LIVES

One of the things daytime soaps used to do so well was to posit questions of morality and values through a dramatic storyline.  A conflict would arise, and the viewer would be treated to different points-of-view through several main characters.  The audience would often come away more informed about an issue, with a greater sensitivity toward diverse opinions.

In the last few decades, this form of story telling has mostly been erased and replaced by tales of reformed rapists, serial killers, natural disasters, and explosions.  However DAYS OF OUR LIVES offered a little reminder this week of how fascinating moral dilemmas can be successfully presented on soaps.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV 2.32 Eddie Campbell & Crystal Chappell

On Episode 2.32 of WE LOVE SOAPS TV, Damon L. Jacobs talks with DAYS OF OUR LIVES star Crystal Chappell and the co-author of the show's 45th anniversary photo book, Eddie Campbell ("Days of our Lives: 45 Years").



If you are in the New York City area and would like to be in the audience during a taping of a future episode of WE LOVE SOAPS TV, email us at audience@welovesoaps.net and we will keep you posted on our upcoming schedule.

RELATED LINKS:
- DAYS OF OUR LIVES at NBC.com
- DAYS OF OUR LIVES on Twitter
- VENICE

Become a WE LOVE SOAPS TV Supporter!

Damon L. Jacobs is a Licensed Therapist now accepting new clients in New York City.  He is also the author of the popular book "Absolutely Should-less: The Secret to Living the Stress-Free Life You Deserve." For more information about scheduling an appointment, please email him at Shouldless@gmail.com

Katherine Kelly Lang - The Exclusive WLS Interview, Part Three

In Parts One and Two of our interview with Katherine Kelly Lang, the acclaimed actress of THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL discussed the delicate balance between her character, Brooke, being "good and bad," as well as how Brooke's resilience could be a role model for gay youth, and the one story that she felt went "oveboard."  In Part Three below, Lang discusses lessons learned from Susan Flannery, Brooke's traumatic rape story line, and how she feels about being overlooked for Emmy nominations. Plus, did she really appear on Italy's DANCING WITH THE STARS? Read on to find out.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: We recently saw a brief truce between Brooke and Stephanie on B&B.
Katherine Kelly Lang: That is really nice.  I love it because they have moments like that, then something comes back into their lives to make them quarrel and get mad at each other again.  But they understand each other and they fight for the same love of their family.  I just love working with Susan, I have learned so much from her throughout the years.  Watching her I pick up so much. 

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: What is the main thing you learned from watching Susan Flannery over the years?

NEWS: Nathan Fillion, Susan Lucci, Bill Roache, Kathryn Joosten, Barbeau

Adrienne Barbeau to appear on CSI: NEW YORK
She'll play a clinic manager who helps investigators track down Ne-Yo.

GLEE going on a 2-month break — "maybe" cast members will leave show
Last night's Christmas special is the last new episode until the Super Bowl episode on Feb. 6. Meanwhile, Ryan Murphy is still getting hounded about whether the New Directions will graduate from high school and leave the show. To which he says "maybe." "Yes, we're going to be doing something," he says. "I'm not going to reveal what it is because it's two years away, but it'll be something momentous happening that spring."