NEWS: Taylor Spreitler wishes soaps got more respect, GREY's Shonda Rhimes talks about new season, CORRIE's Armitage/Anthony to return

Former DAYS OF OUR LIVES actress Taylor Spreitler wishes soaps got more respect. Arab Spring transforms TV and movie industries, soaps may not get the usual ratings bump. GREY'S ANATOMY's Shonda Rhimes talks about Mer-Der's struggle, Cristina's pregnancy and more in a new interview. Peter Armitage and Kate Anthony are returning to CORONATION STREET in September as Bill and Pam. British Royal Zara Phillips weds rugby star Mark Tindall, CORRIE's Katherine Kelly attends.

Today in Soap Opera History (July 31)

On this date in...

1986: Marilyn McCoo made her first appearance on DAYS OF OUR LIVES as Marlena's friend, Tamara. She would leave the show a year later. Elsewhere, Mike recreated the beach in his office for Robin.

VOTE: Indie Soap of the Week Poll (July 24-30, 2011)

Which web series was your favorite last week? Support your favorite continuing drama or comedy 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 July 24-30, 2011 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:

WATCH: Premiere of Web Series OLD DOGS & NEW TRICKS

OLD DOGS & NEW TRICKS, starring Leon Acord, Curt Bonnem, Jeffrey Patrick Olson and David Pevsner, debuted on Saturday night.

The show asks, in a place called Boystown, do gay men ever grow up? Or do we just grow old? Nathan, Brad, Muscles and Ross stumble through middle age in an alternate universe called West Hollywood.

In the premiere episode, West Hollywood agent Nathan Adler (Acord, who is also the show's writer) recalls how he first met '80s rocker Brad King (Bonnem), personal trainer 'Muscles' Carter (Olson) and actor Ross Stein (Pevsner) as he begrudgingly prepares for his 50th birthday party.

Watch it below and let us know what you think.

INTERVIEW ARCHIVE: Julia Barr

In case you missed our recent interview with ALL MY CHILDREN's Julia Barr, you can catch up with the links below.

In Part 1, the Emmy-winning actress shared memories of moving to New York City, landing roles on RYAN'S HOPE and ALL MY CHILDREN, and her 30-year portrayal of Brooke English on AMC

In Part 2, Barr talked about leaving ALL MY CHILDREN, returning in 2010, and shared her thoughts on soap's move to the web.

The Week in Review: Most Popular Posts

In case you missed them, here are the 15 most popular topics over the past week at WE LOVE SOAPS TV:

1.  SANTA BARBARA's Christopher "Chip" Mayer Has Passed Away At Age 57
2.  Thursday's ONE LIFE TO LIVE: Pure Entertainment
3.  PREVIEW: ABC Family Monday Night Soaps SECRET LIFE & SWITCHED AT BIRTH
4.  SWITCHED AT BIRTH Secrets: Who is Pandora?
5.  Prospect Park Makes Statement: Contract Talks May Delay AMC/OLTL Move to the Web
6.  TORCHWOOD: MIRACLE DAY Poll - Five Best Explanations for Why No One Is Dying
7.  INTERVIEW: Julia Barr Reflects On Her Career and Brooke English, Part 2 of 2
8.  Q&A: Sydney Penny of SANTA BARBRA, AMC, 90210, DAYS, DROP DEAD DIVA

Coming Tuesday: New Web Series BREAKING POINT

Writer-producer-director Caryn K. Hayes unleashes high drama online with her new award-winning web soap series, BREAKING POINT, which follows a group of friends as they deal with the extraordinary crises that make up their day-to-day lives.

The series is set to launch on Tuesday, August 2, with a new episode rolling out each Tuesday for five consecutive weeks.

FLASHBACK: Bridget & Jerome Dobson - SANTA BARBARA's Guiding Lights 1984

VETERANS BRIDGE, JEROME DOBSON
'SANTA BARBARA'S' GUIDING LIGHTS

By Julie Richard
Los Angeles Times
July 28, 1984

While prime-time series come and go, daytime dramas generally go on and on, so when a new serial enters the field, the trick is to lure away loyal viewers already ensconced in the machinations of their favorite soap characters.

Today in Soap Opera History (July 30)

On this date in...

1984: NBC soap opera SANTA BARBARA, created by Bridget and Jerome Dobson, debuted. The show lasted 2,137 episodes before finishing its run in the U.S. in 1993. The show continued to air around the world and became an international hit.

VOTE: Daytime Soap of the Week Poll (July 25-29, 2011)

Which daytime soap opera was your favorite the week of July 25-29, 2011? ONE LIFE TO LIVE has won the WE LOVE SOAPS TV poll for the past 15 weeks. Was it your favorite again this week? Vote in the poll below and check back on Monday morning for the results.

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

NEWS: "Dark" Spinelli, DESPERATE Spoilers, Bailey Chase, Sick of Antiheroes?

What if adult series were remade for children? MAD BABIES anyone? Ouch! Google TV returns outnumber sales. DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES Susan and Gabi arrested and pole dancing? TORCHWOOD may not be an annual event for Starz. Y&R's Christian LeBlanc gives acting lessons to GOOD DAY LA reporter. TRUE BLOOD star Denis O'Hare marries his partner in New York. GENERAL HOSPITAL's Bradford Anderson talks about the "dark" future of Damian Spinelli. Former GUIDING LIGHT star Matt Bomer bares his six pack abs at EA Sports' Pro-Am.  Louise Sorel blogs about her ouster from DAYS.

Google TV Returns Outnumber Sales
Logitech International, maker of the Revue Google TV unit, announced that Revue profits were “slightly negative” last quarter as more people returned the device than purchased it.

What If Adult TV Shows Were Remade for Children
College Humor reimagines several primetime series as if they were made for children.

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES Season 8 Spoiler: Is Susan Getting Arrested — Again?
Hatcher was spotted filming a scene from the show’s upcoming eighth season July 28, in which her character fights with a cop and gets taken away in handcuffs.

Eva Longoria shows off pole dancing injuries
Longoria was working on an episode of DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES which will show her character Gabrielle Solis showing off her pole dancing skills.

Are you sick of TV antiheroes?
"There is nothing provocative or daring in the antiheroic attitude right now; we are up to our necks in it, and to create more series in that image is no longer to fly in the face of convention but to coast along in its wake."

Former ATWT actor Baily Chase to guest on WHITE COLLAR
Chase, 39, will step into the role of Bryan McKenzie, a Sterling-Bosch vice president whom Sara (Hilarie Burton) suspects of stealing a Stradivarius. Bryan is described as highly ambitious with a special interest and appreciation for Chinese culture.

TORCHWOOD may not be an annual event
Before stepping before reporters at TV critics tour, Starz CEO Chris Albrecht told EW he doesn’t envision the cult favorite as an annual event. The show’s 10-episode order was a large and unusual commitment for TORCHWOOD partner BBC, he pointed out, and he hinged the pickup more on whether creator Russell T Davies comes up with a great new idea that can work for both partners.

100 & Single: The Dawning Of The MTV Era And How It Rocket-Fueled The Hot 100
The day Music Television went live on cable TV the No. 1 song on Billboard's Hot 100 that week was "Jessie's Girl," by a guy so telegenic he was crossing over from a soap opera: GENERAL HOSPITAL's Rick Springfield. Appropriately, "Jessie's Girl" came packaged with a fairly slick (for its day) music video.

GENERAL HOSPITAL's Bradford Anderson talks about the future of Damian Spinelli
"What's coming up is going to be very dark, and we're going to have Spinelli coming out of this very different and learning things about him. It's really exciting."

Aquinas grad Casey Kasprzyk wins Emmy for daytime series
“My high school experience was extremely pivotal in the successes that I have achieved today. I appreciate all the support and encouragement that Aquinas has given me through the years,” said B&B producer Casey Kasprzyk.

Y&R's Yvonne Zima stars in indie thriller with her sister
The Zima sisters were friends with the lead actor and liked what they saw after the first couple of scenes of The Absent, so they agreed to be in the movie.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES star Louise Sorel blogs on ouster
Concentrate on the present and the future! "Life's too short" "Dust yourself off, and start all over again."

In my particular arena it means calling your agent and inquiring about roles you might be right for. Then again, they may call you and set up an audition or meeting for a project. You always hope it's something of substance and at least interesting. In my case, I have had two calls for work that caused me to want to scream and then lapse into gales of laughter.

Gloria Steinem’s thoughts on NBC’s PLAYBOY CLUB
“Are they aggrandizing the past in a nostalgic way, or are they really showing the problems of the past in order to show we have come forward? Somehow I think the shows are not doing that,” Steinem said, noting wryly that when times get tough, the “white male response” tends to swing to either sadomasochism — or nostalgia.

TRUE BLOOD star Denis O'Hare marries partner
The Tony-award winning actor, who plays villainous vampire Russell Edgington in the hit TV show, married interior designer Hugo Redwood in a ceremony in the Big Apple, where politicians voted to allow gay unions last month.

Matt Bomer Bares Six Pack Abs at EA Sports' Pro-Am
The former GUIDING LIGHT actor played football at the EA Sports Pro-Am held in Bryant Park on Wednesday (July 27) in New York City.

GOOD DAY LA's Lauren Sanchez gets acting tips from Y&R's Christian LeBlanc

PRESS RELEASE: Disney/ABC's Anne Sweeney Named MIPCOM 2011 Personality of the Year

Disney/ABC Television Group president Anne Sweeney has been named Mipcom 2011's Personality of the Year by event organizer Reed Midem.

Sweeney, who is also Disney Media Networks co-chair, becomes the first woman to receive the accolade, which will be presented at an industry gala in Cannes on Wednesday October 5. She will also give a Media Mastermind keynote address.

Read the press release below:

GOOD DAY LA on the Set of DAYS OF OUR LIVES with Nate Berkus

GOOD DAY LA was on the set of DAYS OF OUR LIVES on Friday to speak with guest star Nate Berkus. Alison Sweeney, Eric Martsolf, Lauren Koslow, Sarah Brown and other DAYS stars were there as well sharing in the fun.

Asked why she joined DAYS, Brown joked, "Because they told me Nate Berkus was going to be on the show."

Berkus wouldn't reveal what he would be doing in his guest appearance.

Watch the interview below:

James Franco on September GH Return: "I have no idea what they're talking about"

On July 25, ABC confirmed to TV Guide Magazine that James Franco would be returning to GENERAL HOSPITAL on September 20 but the actor apparently was the last to know and hasn't filmed any episodes yet.

"I will be back to GENERAL HOSPITAL, but I'm filming a movie about the Wizard of Oz in Detroit right now, I haven't filmed any new episodes for GENERAL HOSPITAL," James Franco told ACCESS HOLLYWOOD Thursday night at the Hollywood premiere of his new film, Rise of the Planet Apes.

TORCHWOOD: MIRACLE DAY Poll - Five Best Explanations for Why No One Is Dying

TORCHWOOD: MIRACLE DAY is so seductive, the way it walks the tightrope between telling us too much and being totally obtuse. John Barrowman's Captain Jack Harkness is trying to find out why everyone in the world is not dying (except for him). After "Miracle Day" everything changed. But what? Former ALL MY CHILDREN star Alexa Havens is part of the cast this season helping to solve the mystery along with Mekhi Phifer (Rex) and Eve Myles (Gwen). She is excellent in this role by the way.

We have some theories about what is going on. Admittedly, they're not very good--but here they are! Tell us your favorite in the comments section below. Or, even better, if you have your own theory, write it in!

WATCH: THE WEST WING Explains The Debt Ceiling

The news lately has been non-stop talk about the debt ceiling with debate raging among Democrats and Republicans in Washington on the issue. President Obama had another news conference this morning. But what is the debt ceiling? Aaron Sorkin's primetime soap THE WEST WING took up the subject in an episode from its sixth season, "In God We Trust," which explained the politics behind getting the debt ceiling raised.

"So this debt ceiling thing is routine or the end of the world?" Annabeth Schott (Kristin Chenoweth) asked Tony Ziegler (Richard Schiff).

"Both," he responded.

Watch the scene below:

Thursday's ONE LIFE TO LIVE: Pure Entertainment

ONE LIFE TO LIVE has been on fire in recent months. The show has finished in the spot of our "Daytime Soap of the Week" poll for 15 straight weeks so fans seem to agree. Thursday's episode, the red carpet  and premiere for "Vicker Man: The David Vickers Buchanan Story," was a joy to watch. This is what daytime television has the ability to do - help us escape for an hour, make us anticipate what's going to happen next, and get us to care about the characters we are watching.

WATCH: Jane Lynch Emmy Commercial - What Is Her Secret?

In a new commercial for the September 18th Primetime Emmys, GLEE's Jane Lynch busts out an excellent Ellen DeGeneres impersonation (she is often mistaken for the talk show host). One that she used to help lock down the gig.

"I am tickled pink to be hosting the Primetime Emmys," Lynch previously said. "I'm looking forward to singing, dancing and sporting my finest tracksuit."

Watch the commercial below:

NEWS: Ryan Murphy responds to GLEE controversy, HBO premiere dates, BBC iPlayer

GLEE's Ryan Murphy talks for the first time about a spinoff and firing missteps. Murphy recently declared three GLEE lead actors would be leaving the show, and there was hell to pay. HBO announces Fall premiere dates. Tori Spelling regrets getting breast implants. Oscar winner Dustin Hoffman plays a lifetime gambler recently released from prison in a new HBO show. TRUE BLOOD is on the verge of a 5th season pickup after creator Alan Ball signs a new deal. HBO says they won't ax GAME OF THRONES too soon.

Today in Soap Opera History (July 29)

On this date in...

1999: On THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, Nikki couldn't help but respond to a kiss from Brad.

2002: On GENERAL HOSPITAL, Sonny and Carly patched things up in Martinique (watch below).

PREVIEW: ABC Family's THE LYING GAME Starring Alexandra Chando

Former AS THE WORLD TURNS actress Alexandra Chando (Maddie) stars in the new ABC Family soap THE LYING GAME which debuts on August 15.

Watch a new preview of the show below:

NEWS ROUNDUP: Tom Wiggin Helps Poor Kids, Michael E. Knight Happy With Tad & Dixie Reunion, Billy Hufsey School

Michael E. Knight reflects on ALL MY CHILDREN's cancellation and the return of Dixie in a new interview. DAYS OF OUR LIVES writer Demetrius Malone is back with a new play. Shelby Young leaving DAYS. ormer DAYS star Billy Hufsey helps others 'light up the sky like a flame'. India's RR Movie Makers forms U.S. division, and their first movie stars Jonathan Bennett, Jamie Lynn Sigler and Nadia Bjorlin. EMMERDALE stars go in to bat for good cause. Former ATWT and SISTERS star Swoozie Kurtz visits THE TALK; chats about career and co-star. Y&R's Jabot jumps from soap plots to store shelves. Former ATWT star Tom Wiggin says "Poor kids have a right to learn, too".

WATCH: Y&R's Tracey Bregman and Peter Bergman visit THE TALK

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS stars Tracey Bregman and Peter Bergman were guests on THE TALK on Thursday. THE TALK host LLeah Remini also crossed over to Y&R. Watch it below:

NEWS ROUNDUP: Ian Somerhalder testifies before Congress, MAD MEN To Star Shooting Next week, Ratings, CW Show Posters

MAD MEN stars filming next week. How will the show deal with the January Jones pregnancy? Y&R, GH and DAYS up in total viewers. Actress Paz de la Huerta pleads guilty in NY bar scrap. GREY'S ANATOMY's Sarah Drew Is Pregnant. VAMPIRE DIARIES star Ian Somerhalder testifies before Congress. Eddie Izzard to Guest-Star as Lockhart/Gardner Rival on THE GOOD WIFE. The CW releases new posters for THE SECRET CIRCLE and HART OF DIXIE. John Barrowman says "TORCHWOOD sex scene cut was right decision". Alex Trebek snapped his Achilles tendon while chasing a criminal through a San Francisco hotel.  And, don't blame us, ABC releases a trailer for THE CHEW (don't be chewing on anything when watching).

DIRTY SOAP Docu-Series To Premiere Sept. 25; Stars Kelly Monaco, Nadia Bjorlin, Kirsten Storms, Farah Fath, J.P. Lavoisier & Galen Gering

E! LATHERS UP WITH NEW FALL DOCU-SERIES “DIRTY SOAP” TAKING VIEWERS INSIDE THE REAL LIVES OF TODAY’S HOTTEST SOAP STARS

Executive Produced By Kelly Ripa, Mark Consuelos and Amber Mazzola, the Eight-Episode, Hour-Long Series Debuts September 25 at 10:00 p.m., ET/PT on E!

Read the full press release from E! below:

(Los Angeles, CA, July 28, 2011) – They’ve been killers, ghosts, homeless, prostitutes, prisoners and even murder victims – but it’s off the set of their famous soaps where the real drama begins.

NOMINEES: 2011 ALMA Awards, Primetime Soaps Well Represented

The nominees of the 2011 National Council of La Raza (NCLR) ALMA Awards have been announced and soaps were well represented. Since 1995, the NCLR ALMA Awards has promoted fair, accurate, and representative portrayals of Latinos in entertainment. And this year, from GLEE's Naya Rivera to SWITCHED AT BIRTH's Constance Marie, the performers nominated from serialized shows have a good chance of taking their categories. The winners will be announced on September 16 in a ceremony hosted by Eva Longoria and George Lopez on NBC.

Check out the soap related nominees below which includes Eva LaRue, Francia Raisa and many more:

WATCH: Anna Holbrook & Agim Kaba Guest Star on THE BAY's "Far From The Bay"

Anna Holbrook is one of the most underrated actresses around despite winning and Emmy award in 1996 for her role as Sharlene Frame on ANOTHER WORLD. She is also an ageless beauty who has never looked better. Former AS THE WORLD TURNS star Agim Kaba has continued to get better and better with each new role. They both guest star on this week's webisode of THE BAY as Pete (Kristos Andrews) continues his "Far From The Bay" journey.

In the new webisode, Pete learns some shocking news about Claire Andrews (Marie Wilson). Watch it below.

Actress Jane White Has Died At Age 88

Actress Jane White died on July 24 at age 88. She was mostly known for her body of theater work but also appeared on daytime soap operas A WORLD APART, SEARCH FOR TOMORROW and THE EDGE OF NIGHT.

She played Lydia Holliday on THE EDGE OF NIGHT in the late 1960s. On A WORLD APART she played Olivia Hampton in 1971. In 1979 she appeared as Tante Helene LeVeaux on SEARCH FOR TOMORROW.

AMC Network Announces Online Division, Will Develop Shows For The Web

AMC Network has announced AMC Digital Studios, a new online division to introduce web shows from new and developing filmmakers. It will begin with THE TRIVIAL PURSUITS OF ARTHUR BANKS, a series co-written and directed by Peter Glanz and starring Adam Goldberg with Jeffrey Tambor.

The series will debut Aug. 22 on amctv.com and on the free, ad-supported Hulu.com, AMC announced Thursday at the Television Critics Association summer press tour.

Here's the press release:

Broadway & Soap Opera Actress Tresa Hughes Has Died At Age 81

Tony Award nominee and soap opera actress Tresa Hughes has died, according to a death notice in The New York Times. She was 81.

Hughes played Emma Frame Ordway (Frankie, Molly, Wade, Sterling and Henry's mother) on ANOTHER WORLD on and off from June 1975 to June 1976. She was the second Emma (Beverlee McKinsey was the first).

Hughes also played Rose Carelli Fraser on FROM THESE ROOTS from 1960 to 1961 (she left to do "The Advocate" on Broadway) and Nurse Dumfrey on RYAN'S HOPE in 1977.

Today in Soap Opera History (July 28)

On this date in...

1937: Short-lived radio soap SECOND HUSBAND aired its final episode.

2006: Mary J. Blige made a cameo on ONE LIFE TO LIVE.

NEWS ROUNDUP: AMC and OLTL cast members meet with AFTRA, Walt Willey Play, Patrick Duffy

AMC and OLTL cast members meet with AFTRA on Prospect Park move. AMC, ANOTHER WORLD, OLTL cast members in Ottowa community theater. A plea for greater morality (and less homophobia) in South African soaps. Patrick Duffy never thought he'd do DALLAS again. OLTL and GH villains in off-Broadway comedy, "You've Got Hate Mail."

Get Psyched: Kim Zimmer Tell-all Launches Tuesday!

In just five days, Kim Zimmer releases her new book, "I'm Just Sayin': Three Deaths, Seven Husbands, and a Clone! My Life as a Daytime Diva." Look for her here next week, kicking of season three of WE LOVE SOAPS TV! Of course, we'll also be posting our review of "I'm Just Sayin'."

To celebrate Kim's book, let's take a look back at the fabulous star who brought Reva Shayne to life! You can watch a clip of her WE LOVE SOAPS TV interview from August 2, 2010 here. She talks about the writing process, life after GUIDING LIGHT, and even exclaims, "I've kissed Crystal Chapell many times!" Read a transcript of the interview here.

ABC PRESS RELEASE: John O'Hurley to Guest Star on ALL MY CHILDREN This Fall

John O’Hurley will make several appearances on ABC’s daytime drama ALL MY CHILDREN this fall as Kit Sterling, a producer who approaches Erica Kane (Susan Lucci) to make a movie from the new book she has just written.

Best-known for his role as J. Peterman on SEINFELD, O’Hurley has also had an extensive daytime television career including stints as good and evil twins Keith Lane/Jonathan Matalaine on LOVING and Greg Bennett on GENERAL HOSPITAL. O’Hurley’s first episode on ALL MY CHILDREN is scheduled to air on September 12.

CONTEST: Live the Raven Symoné NYC Life, after ROCCO'S DINNER PARTY

We recently had the chance to talk to Raven Symoné, and now we want to offer the chance to experience her version of New York City.

Raven Symoné has got plenty on her plate with her new ABC Family show STATE OF GEORGIA, a comedy series where she acts as an aspiring actress trying to make it in NYC. But, first a pit-stop in Celebrity Chef Rocco DiSpirito's NYC loft for the Bravo hit show ROCCO'S DINNER PARTY!

Q&A: Sydney Penny of SANTA BARBRA, AMC, 90210, DAYS, DROP DEAD DIVA

The indefatigable Sydney Penny has appeared in THE THORN BIRDS, SANTA BARBARA, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL, ALL MY CHILDREN, BEVERLY HILLS 90210, and many more. Now, she's joining DAYS OF OUR LIVES and DROP DEAD DIVA.

We recently had a conversation with Sydney about her 30 year career, soap opera morality, web etiquette, being an actress, and her dream job. Read the transcript after the jump. See her in DROP DEAD DIVA this Sunday, July 30 at 9pm on Lifetime.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: How are you doing? Thank you so much for your time, Ms. Penny! You’ve had so many roles in so many different soap operas, and you’ve also had a lot of lead roles on non-soap TV. Can tell us about how the atmosphere is different on set? Which do you like better?
Sydney Penny: Oh, Kevin. Sure, I would love to answer your question. I hope I can do it justice.

Ferry Doedens Discusses Storyline During Theme-Night About Homosexuality

The Dutch public broadcasters VARA and KRO are organizing a theme-night about homosexuality on August 4. One of the guests that night will be GOEDE TIJDEN SLECHTE TIJDEN actor Ferry Doedens. He plays gay character Lucas Sanders on GTST. This season his character found love with Edwin Bouwhuis (played by Raynor Arkenbout). After their first love scene there was a lot of commotion on social media like Twitter. According to the COC, the largest Dutch gay rights organization (and one of the oldest in the world), GTST is providing an important contribution to the equality of Dutch LGBT's by respectfully and carefully treating the subject. Doedens will talk about this to hosts Claudia de Breij and Arie Boomsma.

Today in Soap Opera History (July 27)

On this date in...

1916: Actor Keenan Wynn Picture was born. He would go on to star in dozens of television and film roles including as Digger Barnes on DALLAS.

1975: TOMORROW COAST TO COAST with Tom Synder featured a soap opera lineup of Bryna Laub, Joseph Stuart, Agnes Nixon, and Mary Stuart.

NEWS ROUNDUP: Sexy Ad Campaign for Sarah Michelle Gellar, Chelsea Kane to ONE TREE HILL, "Please Don't Squeeze The Charmin"

The CW's RINGER recasts a role with Zoey Deutch. The CW is readying its marketing campaign for the return of Sarah Michell Gellar to primetime. "Please Don't Squeeze the Charmin" ad inventor John Chervokas has died. Disney makes an offer to buy Indian media company UTV. Justin Bieber turned down after wanting to guest on THE VAMPIRE DIARIES. Chelsea Kane will guest star on ONE TREE HILL next season. The Parents Television Council asks NBC affiliates to drop THE PLAYBOY CLUB.

SANTA BARBARA's Christopher "Chip" Mayer Has Passed Away At Age 57

According to BRBTV, actor Christopher "Chip" Mayer died unexpectedly on Saturday evening. He was 57.

His fiancee Catherine, whom Mayer was planning to marry next month, had been out of town shooting a new project when she received the news.

Born George Charles Mayer III on February 21, 1954, Mayer grew up in Ridgewood, New Jersey, the eldest of seven children.

My Favorite Interviews from Season 2 of WE LOVE SOAPS TV

We are gearing up for the third season of our web series, WE LOVE SOAPS TV, lining up more interviews and features than ever. But as we close out our 91 episode second season I wanted to reflect on some of the interviews I did during the year for the show.

I'll never forget (and you don't want to miss!) these moments, showcasing Signy Coleman's passion and compassion; Mimi Torchin's hilarious and insightful candor; Nick Matthews' charisma and wit; Van Hansis' talent and ambition; and Olivia Newton-John's beauty and generosity of spirit.

Character Actor Tom Aldredge Dies at 83

Tom Aldredge, an Emmy-winning actor seen in everything from RYAN'S HOPE to THE SOPRANOS, died on Friday in Tampa, Fla. He was 83.

The cause was lymphoma, his manager, Matthew Sullivan, said.

Aldredge was nominated for five Tony Awards. He received a Drama Desk Award in 1972 for his portrayal of Ozzie, the father of a blinded Vietnam veteran in David Rabe’s dark comedy “Sticks and Bones.”

RESULTS: Indie Soap of the Week Poll (July 17-23, 2011); STRANGERS Moves To #1

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Indie Soap of the Week" poll for the week of July 17-23, 2011. Erik Santos' STRANGERS finished on top after airing its second episode last week.

PREVIEW: ABC Family Tuesday Night Soaps PRETTY LITTLE LIARS & THE NINE LIVES OF CHLOE KING

The Liars are ill at ease when they each have to confront complicated matters in “Surface Tension,” an all new episode of ABC Family’s hit original series, PRETTY LITTLE LIARS, premiering Tuesday, July 26th (8:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET/PT).

Its moving day for Emily, and with a new place to call home, she is feeling more like a guest than part of the family. Hanna is also feeling uneasy, but for her it is in regard to Caleb’s continued shady “business” dealings and his nonchalant attitude about it. And when Toby makes a surprising discovery, Spencer is thrown for a loop by the find and her father’s reaction to it.

NEWS ROUNDUP: AFTRA Talks, Stage Appearances, Soap Morality, Duffy Does Dallas

AMC and OLTL cast members meet with AFTRA on Prospect Park move. AMC, ANOTHER WORLD, OLTL cast members in Ottowa community theater. A plea for greater morality (and less homophobia) in South African soaps. Patrick Duffy never thought he'd do DALLAS again. OLTL and GH villains in off-Broadway comedy, "You've Got Hate Mail."

Today in Soap Opera History (July 26)

On this date in...

1938: YOUNG WIDDER BROWN, from Frank and Anne Hummert, premiered on NBC Radio. The show told the story of young Ellen, a 30 year old mother, who struggles to raise her children without the small town mentality that came with living in Simpsonsville.

1976: Both ONE LIFE TO LIVE and GENERAL HOSPITAL expanded to 45 minutes. GH debuted a new theme song, "Autumn Breeze," as well.

Prospect Park Makes Statement: Contract Talks May Delay AMC/OLTL Move to the Web

Prospect Park, issued a statement today about the future of ALL MY CHILDREN and ONE LIFE TO LIVE saying it is "in the process of working out the essential terms of our proposed collective bargaining agreements with the appropriate guilds and unions," which needs to be done before other plans can go forward.

Read the Prospect Park statement below:

The love and support for ALL MY CHILDREN and ONE LIFE TO LIVE is truly amazing. Since we announced our intention to work with the shows, the fan outreach we’ve experienced over the past few weeks further validates our decision to work to keep them going for years to come. However we also respect the organizations and processes that are in place so that all can apply their craft within the infrastructure that the entertainment industry has set, specifically in this case with the appropriate guilds and unions.

INTERVIEW: Julia Barr Reflects On Her Career and Brooke English, Part 2 of 2

In Part 1 of our interview with Julia Barr, the Emmy-winning actress shared memories of moving to New York City, landing roles on RYAN'S HOPE and ALL MY CHILDREN, and her 30-year portrayal of Brooke English. In Part 2 below, Barr talks about leaving ALL MY CHILDREN, returning in 2010, and tells us what she thinks of the show's move to the web.

WE LOVE SOAPS TV: By the time you left the show, there had been changes to the writing staff multiple times. No one thought these shows would last first decades when they first started. Is it possible to keep a soap true to itself for that many years?

WATCH: John Barrowman Sings To and Kisses a Male Fan at Comic Con

After some heckling at Comic Con over the weekend, TORCHWOOD's John Barrowman agrees to sing "Happy Birthday" to one of his fans who showed up dressed as Captain Jack Harkness. He then takes it to the next level by giving the fan a kiss. Watch it below and let us know what you think of the new season of TORCHWOOD.

INTERVIEW: ROOKIE BLUE's Enuka Okuma

Ms. Enuka Okuma is an amazing talent, and already something of an entertainment industry veteran, with eight film roles and eleven lead television roles over two decades. Recently, I was blessed with the opportunity to speak with her one-on-one, and as we took turns laughing and “talking shop”, I realized: Enuka is just getting started!

After hearing about her career, and everything she's been up to lately, I think you'll agree that she's an artist we want to keep an eye on! In fact, I hereby declare that we are in the midst of "The Summer of Enuka."

SWITCHED AT BIRTH Secrets: Who is Pandora?

Pandora's Box” is the title of this week's SWITCHED AT BIRTH—and we can't think of a better name for such a secret-filled episode!

Here's a synopsis: As Bay and Emmett's relationship continues to get more serious, Regina comes clean about the secret she's been hiding from everyone. John asks Regina what the hospital board might know about her that could potentially destroy their chances of winning a settlement.

GENERAL HOSPITAL's Grahn, LoCicero & Berman Participating in "Relay For Life"

Three GENERAL HOSPITAL actresses--Lisa LoCicero, Nancy Lee Grahn and Julie Berman--will be participating in the American Cancer Society’s Hollywood Relay for Life event, taking place on Saturday July 30.

All three women have ties to the cause, and are taking time out of their weekend to show support.

All event details are listed on their virtual team pages (links included below).

Join Nancy Lee Grahn’s Team
Join Lisa LoCicero’s Team
Join Julie Marie Berman's Team

PREVIEW: ABC Family Monday Night Soaps SECRET LIFE & SWITCHED AT BIRTH

After Amy discovers why Ricky was denied acceptance into the nearby college, she makes it her mission to fix the matter, while Ben struggles with the idea of just being Adrian’s roommate, on THE SECRET LIFE OF THE AMERICAN TEENAGER, premiering on Monday, July 25 (8:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET/PT).

In the one-hour episode, “Cute,” Ricky confides in Amy why he was denied entrance to his college of choice. This infuriates Amy, who is determined to try and make it right. She ignores Ricky’s pleas to leave it alone and takes matters into her own hands, but can she really help? Meanwhile, Ben is unaware of Adrian’s secret plan, and while Grace tries to tell him what she knows, her efforts lead Ben to believe Adrian’s seeing another man.

NEWS: B&B's Katie Has A Heart Attack, GREY'S MerDer To Reunite, Hoff Incident

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL SPOILER: Katie has a heart attack (Heather Tom Interview)
Taylor comes over and says, "Listen, your husband and my daughter are involved." And Katie's, like, "Your daughter is sick and needs help. She's obsessed with my husband and she's living in a fantasy world!" But it's at that point that a seed of doubt is planted, since Taylor is not the type to make stuff up. Then when Bill comes in I have this two-page monologue where Katie tells him what Taylor said and through it all Bill says nothing. It becomes clearer and clearer that things are not the way Katie thinks they are.

DAYS' Alison Sweeney To Star In HOLLYWOOD MOMS' CLUB With Ali Landry

TV Guide Network is developing a new series called HOLLYWOOD MOMS' CLUB, which promises to give viewers a peek into the lives of hottest celebrity mothers.

Featuring DAYS OF OUR LIVES actress Alison Sweeney and Ali Landry ("The Ali's"), HOLLYWOOD MOMS' CLUB focuses on the two stars and their regular potluck dinners where they discuss being a working mom with their famous friends. Different guests will join Sweeney and Landry in each episode, beginning with Denise Richards.

NEWS: James Franco Returns to GENERAL HOSPITAL on Sept. 20, Nafessa Williams Film Premieres

James Franco returning to GENERAL HOSPITAL
Soaps in Depth tweeted over the weekend that Franco would be back on the soap in early fall.

"Franco" back to GH on September 20
TV Guide Magazine reveals the date of Franco's return and says Franco's upcoming story arc is being called "longterm," meaning we'll see him well into the fall and possibly beyond.

WATCH: Rise of the Planet of the Apes Comic Con Teaser
Starring James Franco, Freida Pinto, John Lithgow, Brian Cox, Tom Felton, and Andy Serkis, director Rupert Wyatt’s Rise of the Planet of the Apes opens in the U.S. on August 5, 2011.

James Franco Sells $10,000 Piece of Non-Visible Art
Montreal web producer, social media marketer, model and actor Aimee Davison dished out $10,000 for the conceptual piece “Fresh Air,” which is described as: A unique piece, only this one is for sale. The air you are purchasing is like buying an endless tank of oxygen. No matter where you are, you always have the ability to take a breath of the most delicious, clean-smelling air that the earth can produce. Every breath you take gives you endless peace and health. This artwork is something to carry with you if you own it. Because wherever you are, you can imagine yourself getting the most beautiful taste of air that is from the mountain tops or fields or from the ocean side; it is an endless supply.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Read our interview with James Franco here.

RESULTS: Daytime Soap of the Week Poll (July 18-22, 2011) - OLTL #1 For 15th Week In A Row at WLS

Here are the results from the WE LOVE SOAPS TV "Daytime Soap of the Week" poll for the week of July 18-22, 2011. ONE LIFE TO LIVE remained the most popular soap at WLS for the 15th week in a row.

GLEE Stars Graduating But Not Leaving The Show

GLEE co-creator and executive producer Brad Falchuk told a Comic Con audience that three of the show's stars, whom co-creator Ryan Murphy had said would be leaving at the end of the third season, would not be, Deadline reports:

“Here’s the exact thing: They’re seniors. They’re graduating. But that doesn’t mean they’re leaving the show," Falchuk said. "It was never our intention or plan to let these people go... They are not done with the show after this season.” Later on in the panel he revealed they had discussed the possibility of a spin-off show depicting the three graduates in New York, trying to start careers on Broadway, but that it probably wouldn’t happen and he was “leaning against doing it.”

Watch a video from Comic Con with Darren Criss, Harry Shum Jr., Jenna Ushkowitz and Dot-Marie Jones below:

Today in Soap Opera History (July 25)

On this date in...

1984: Jermaine Jackson and Whitney Houston taped their August appearance at the AS THE WORLD TURNS studio at CBS in New York.

1991: Jensen Buchanan debuted as Vicky on ANOTHER WORLD. Watch the episode here.

2006: Singer Rihanna appeared on ALL MY CHILDREN during the grand opening of "ConFusion." She sang both her blockbuster summer hit "S.O.S" and "Kisses Don't Lie" from her album, "A Girl Like Me."

FLASHBACK: The Love Story of Phil Brent & Tara Martin on ALL MY CHILDREN

The love story of Philip Brent and Tara Martin on ALL MY CHILDREN started when they were seniors at Pine Valley High School. In the classic article below from Daily TV Serials magazine, their story is recapped including interference from the one and only Erica Kane. Read their story below.

(click to expand)

Today in Soap Opera History (July 24)

On this date in...

1914: Actor Robert Emhardt, the original Mac Cory on ANOTHER WORLD, was born. He died on December 26, 1994.

1933: THE ROMANCE OF HELEN TRENT first went on the air in Chicago. It was the forerunner of many daily, 15-minute soap operas. The program lasted until June 24, 1960. During its 27-year run, three actresses played Helen--Virginia Clark and Betty Ruth Smith in Chicago, and later Julie Stevens in New York. HELEN had a following so intense that at the height of its popularity the show received 1,000 letters a week offering advice on her many problems.

NEWS: Warren Leslie Dead at 84, Dark Shadows Comic Book, Kelli Giddish, WWE

Warren Leslie Dies at 84; Wrote Book That Rankled Dallas
Warren Leslie, who in 1964 raised hackles in Dallas, his adopted hometown, when he contended in a book that a climate of right-wing extremism had primed the city to become the scene of a national tragedy — the assassination of President John F. Kennedy — died on July 6 at his home in Chicago. He was 84.

Mr. Leslie left Dallas soon after “Dallas Public and Private” was published and returned to New York, where he worked for Revlon and started his own public relations firm while helping to write scripts for the soap opera THE SECRET STORM, whose head writer for a time was his sister, the actress and writer Bethel Leslie.

The Week in Review: Most Popular Posts

In case you missed them, here are the 15 most popular topics over the past week at WE LOVE SOAPS TV:

1.   PICTORIAL: A History of Soap Stars on the Cover of Playgirl
2.   ALL MY CHILDREN: Are You Enjoying Minx?
3.   BREAKING NEWS: Kimberlin Brown Joins The Cast of THE BAY
4.   INTERVIEW: Emily Osment Talks Cyberbullying, Hannah Montana & Her Music
5.   BREAKING NEWS: Mary Beth Evans Crossing Over From THE BAY To PRETTY
6.   The SWITCHED AT BIRTH Code?
7. Sarah Brown Joins DAYS OF OUR LIVES
8.   ABC: Alexa Havens and Justin Bruening Return to ALL MY CHILDREN This September
9.   BREAKING NEWS: Kyle Lowder Signs On For DEVANITY Season 2 Arc

WATCH: THE VAMPIRE DIARIES Sneak Peak

A sneak peek of the new season of THE VAMPIRE DIARIES debuted at Comic-Con. You can watch it below. The show's new season will premiere on Thursday, September 15.

Singer Amy Winehouse Dead at 27; Soap World Reacts

Amy Winehouse, the singer and songwriter who shot to fame with “Rehab,” won five Grammy Awards and sold more than 5 million albums, has died, the Associated Press reported. She was 27.

Winehouse was found dead at her home in northern London, AP reported, citing police.

The U.K. star had hits with “Valerie” and “Love Is a Losing Game,” mixing R&B, jazz and soul. Since 2007, she has been in the news as much for her personal problems as for her music. Paparazzi watched her every move as she battled alcohol and drug addictions and suffered from poor health, depression and eating disorders. She ran into trouble with the police and in her marriage.

Check out some immediate reaction from the soap world on Twitter below:

@sarahjoybrown (Sarah Brown)
Beautiful Amy Winehouse, RIP.

@blueglitterfish (Cady McClain)
RIP Amy Winehouse. A tragic end to a brilliant talent.

David Selby, Jonathan Frid, Lara Parker and Kathryn Leigh Scott Will Have Cameos in the Dark Shadows Movie

Hermes Press hosted a DARK SHADOWS panel with Lara Parker (Angelique), Kathryn Leigh Scott (Maggie Evans and Josette du Pres), Jim Pierson (consulting producer for the new Dark Shadows film), and the son of series creator Dan Curtis. It was moderated by publisher Daniel Herman. The big news was that four of the original cast members will be making cameos in Tim Burton's new film.

Parker and Scott shared the news that they, along with both David Selby (Quentin Collins) and Jonathan Frid (Barnabas Collins), will be making cameos, and spent three days at Pinewood Studios during the filming of Burton's upcoming Dark Shadows movie.