BB: This explains a lot about Stephanie

The current storyline for Stephanie is really great. I think it explains a lot about why she resorts to violence when she gets angry--and boy does she get angry often. How many times have we seen Stephanie slap, punch, pull a gun on a multitude of characters? Just a while back, she kneed her husband in the groin!

That aside, there are writing this story very well. I like how Stephanie excuses it as "that's just how parents acted in those times." It should make for great discussion if they could extrapolate the storyline to some of the younger kids on the show (Thorne's daughter, Brooke's kids) in how they address discipline. What great debate you could have between the "spare the rod, spoil the child" crowd and the "never, ever hit a child crowd."

Bonus: Susan Flannery got some great stuff just in time for the Emmy deadlines at the end of this month!

ATWT: What is this recast?

Explain to me again: Is Jeffrey Meek the recast of Craig Montgomery or James Stenbeck?

BB: Brooke's Choice

The writer's will managed to drag this out for a few days. I assume she is going to choose Nick. Otherwise, what was the point of her conversation with him over dinner. If it was over, she wouldn't be giving him pointers on how to improve their relationship, right?

However, I really, really, really, really am hoping for a Ridge and Brooke reunion. Then again, maybe Brooke will surprise us all and say "I choose me" and state that she doesn't want to be with either of them, or anyone else, for the time being.

Then again, Jackie's accident (Is she dead?) will surely throw a wrench into whatever decision Brooke makes.

Blog Note: See Posts by Show

I upgraded to the Beta version of Blogger. One thing I am taking advantage of is the easy way to apply labels to the posts. Thus, in the posts you should see a show's acronomy (e.g. YR for the Young and the Restless). This acronym is also a hyperlink that will take you to a view of the blog with posts for that show.

I am in the process of updating all of the old posts (wow, 150!). But, the first 50 are completed. I hope you like this!

YR: Carmen Messedup

Well, I guess her name is really Carmen Mesta. But, she hs been getting on my nerves for a bit now. Who is she, as a contractor, to demand that Victoria fire Drucilla? Isn't Newman Ent her client? And, as a customer, always right?

Why doesn't she just call it a day and go home?
Well---maybe she will be calling it a day.

I always think that when one character has people coming at her from all sides and there are veiled threats, they are soon to be victim of a mystery.

Then, to add in when she inadvertantly received Jack's text message regarding Jabot--that just adds another possible suspect!

I won't be sad. Matter of fact, I think they should hold a parade for the perpitrator.

ATWT: At least 30 days until a Jack and Carly reunion

Well, Simon has managed to cover his butt (albeit a nice butt) for a bit in regards to his link to the loan shark. However, we can all forsee their will be trouble after his 30-day deadline has come and gone without repayment of the loan.

I can only assume it won't be until then (or--egads!--even later) that we will see a Carly and Jack reunion.

In the meantime, I am enjoying Carly's hesistancy at going forward with Simon. Her scene where she practices what she will say to surprise him when he returns to his hotel suite was cute.

BB: Thorne and Taylor

This storyline is so unbelievable. Who would get engaged, to their sister-in-law no less, a few months after their much-beloved wife dies in a tragic car accident? Add to this, the Taylor hysteric scenes and the storyline is unwatchable.

Am I really supposed to not fast-forward through Hunter Tylo's sceneray chewing on a daily basis? I am really not one to attack the actors, but the only thing worse than her acting is her ill-advised plastic surgery. (Which makes the characters just more buffoonish!) She was such a beautiful woman, you wonder why she felt the need for such surgery. And you wonder if she regrets it as much as we regret having to see it.

ATWT: Okay, I take it back!

Early last week, we had below freezing temps here in St. Louis--south of the fictional Oakdale, Illinois.
Then, at the end of the week, Buffalo received 24 inches of snow.

So, maybe the Ice Storm story wasn't completely far fetched.

ATWT: Stormy Weather

Really? An ice storm in September?

My initial thoughts on this:

1) they are going the GH-Emmy route by using a "disaster" to have material to submit
2) they had a good story, but couldn't sit on it until it was actually somewhat plausible (like November sweeps)

I would buy this "ice storm in September" story, if they once commented on WHY there was an ice storm in the first days of Autumn. I would buy a story ala "The Day After Tomorrow" where ecological systems run amok. But, so far, no explanation. Which is just soooooo irritating.

Perhaps one good thing will come out of this and Jade will blow away in the storm.

BB: Am I the only one hating Thorne and Taylor

I am now starting to believe the only reason they killed of the quirky Darla is just to get these two together. I used to love Thorne "my wife isn't quite cold in the ground but I am hot for Taylor" Forrester. One of my favorite times on BB was when he and Brooke got together.

However, I am not getting this paring at all. Sure, there will be drama once Thorne find out his beloved Taylor killed Darla. But, Taylor and Hector made a more likely pairing and more compatible couple (two fallen "angels"). Now, Hector is just this caricature of his former self--always angry and always manipulative. Where is the sweet firefighter?

The other bad thing about no more Darla, is that we are not likely to see much of Sally or Clark. Both, characters from the early, early days. I guess now that there is no more Spectra House of Ripoffs, we have no more use for these characters.

All Shows: Rabbits are dying everywhere!

What a surprise that ATWT's Jade and BB's Bridget are pregnant! It amazes me that they write storylines like Katie trying to get pregnant and everyone else gets pregnant after one night of sex with someone that they shouldn't be having sex!

But, the fact that it is on almost every soap, shows how overused this plot device has become. Let's see we have Lizzie on GL. I will excuse Y&R and Phyllis since her and Nick were together more than once. Though, I wouldn't be surprised if Carmen ends up preggers after her night (day--really) with Jack.

Who others are offending us with this re-tread story?

ATWT: Carly and Simon

First, let me state (or remind you) that I love Carly and Jack. They are my all-time favorite soap couple, let alone my couple to watch on ATWT. This week their divorce was final.

However, they have moved toward pairing Carly and Simon together. The last we saw on Friday, the two were headed toward the bedroom.

When CBS began to hint about this in their promos (a month or two ago), I admit I was intrigued. Carly and Simon have the potential to be as bad (that's the good kind of bad) together that Carly and Craig had. This could make for an interesting pairing.

ATWT: Luke's Wardrobe

I've been wondering this for months. Does Luke share a wardrobe with Steve from Blue's Clues?

Back among the living

I can't believe I haven't posted for over two months! I posted more during my summer class than I did afterwards.
The Goddess got a bit distracted by swimming pools, golf, and some very interesting municipal government happening in my little burg. And, related to my city government chaos, I was setting up two related websites and blogs to that situation. Oy!

Now, on with the really important stuff....my soaps!

BB: Nice Day for a Black Wedding

I would feel a little more sympathy for Felicia's plight if she didn't look absolutely ridiculous.

So Many Soaps, So Little Time

I am so behind on my soaps. The Goddess is enrolled in a Chemistry cram course (regular 16-week class in 5 weeks). This means more time studying, less time watching the stories.

I am caught up on B&B. It is good right now, plus it is only 1/2 hour.
I am only a day behind on As the World Turns. The Carly storyline is great right now, so if I could only have stayed awake another hour last night I would be caught up.

I am two weeks behind on GL. It's not like it doesn't interest me, I just am more interested in the others.
I am a week behind on YR. Same story on more interest in others and little time.

This weekend, I shall have a soap watching marathon. With the help of SoapNet, I will be caught up on everything by Monday. That is my solemn vow.

BB: Brooke as majority shareholder of Forrester (again)

What is in the pipe that Nick is smoking?! Why would Brooke want to fire Eric and/or Ridge. Even Thorne for that matter.

This is no time to start from scratch, let alone take the Forrester out of Forrester Creations. And, as we have seen, your company is only as good as your latest designs--or designer.

Who's the Daddy Month!

Well, a month or so ago we had "Teen Marriage Month". Now, we are on "Who is the Daddy Month" which will lead to a battery of DNA tests (Daddy Not Aware).
We will abbreviate this soap phenom as WTD (who's the daddy).

Y&R: The big, decade long Neil/Dru/Malcolm WTD comes to a climax as Neil finds out that Lily is not his biological daughter. On the same episode, Phyllis finds out she is pregnant, leaving us with a Nick/Phyllis/Jack WTD.

B&B: Well, if Brooke is going to sleep with two men in less than 48 hours a Ridge/Brooke/Nick WTD is sure to follow.

GL: Lizzie's WTD has been discussed in prior posts. Soon to follow, the Gus/Harley/Mallet WTD (see B&B post above).

ATWT: I think folks would like to make Emily's a WTD pregnancy. Some will speculate that Em slept with Henry or molested Dusty. On soaps a woman will miscarry if she falls out of a chair. Yet, Emily jumps off a cliff, is not breathing/no pulse, yet fetus survives. Which only proves it has to be Paul's baby: only a STENBECK could survive the jump from the cliff!!!

AMC: Fans are speculating that given Dr. Greg's history, the true paternity of Kendall's baby could be up in the air.

OLTL: There is the Antonio/Jess-Tess/Nash WTD, though not a new development.

BB: SORECEOS--Nick as CEO of Maronne

Yes, you too, can be a CEO! First Harley on Guiding Light and now Nick?
Nick as CEO?! Please...
The only thing Nick can run is a boat aground.
I guess maybe he can get pointers from Brooke on how to run a company.

He has only been in the company offices for a few years. But, alas, maybe we are seeing a new soap phenomenon. It is similar to SORAS, except it is SORECEOS--Soap Opera Rapid Experience to CEO Syndrome!

ATWT: Luke comes out to Will

There have been many complaints that there are two teen storylines but they never intersect. Well, we got instant intersection yesterday with Luke and Will's conversation. Even though the writers reminded us how they used to hang out when they were younger, we haven't seen them interacting until yesterday.

And of course, that is the day/time Luke comes out of the closet.

That said, Will gave Luke very good advice. I hoep he has a heart-to-heart with Holden and Lily and kicks Jade to the curb.

BB: Stephanie has lost her mind

Whoa! Stephanie is out of her ever lovin' mind if she thinks she is being reasonable when asking Dante to sign over his child. There are so many holes in what she is saying.

Stephanie called Dante's actions untenable. Yet, her asking him to sign over his parental rights defies reason and logic.

Stephanie said that Dante should think about what is in the best interest of the child. Yet, how is not having a father not in his best interest.

Stephanie said it takes more than one night to make a father. Yet, from the time Dante has found out he was Dino's dad he has stepped up. And the "more than one night" thing could apply to Felecia, too.

Bridget was right. Stephanie needs to interfere in her children's lives and Felecia is handy and, for the moment, needy.

GL rocks the Emmys

Wow! Guiding Light really took over in the acting categories. They were represented as follows:

Female Lead: Kim Zimmer as Reva
Female Supporting: Gina Tognoni as Dinah
Male Supporting: Jordan Clarke
Male Younger Lead: Tom Pelphrey

CBS took 5 out of the 6 acting categories when Jennifer Landon won Younger Female Lead for her role of Gwen on ATWT.

Emmy Comment: Who picked the order

Well, I didn't completely hate that the Daytime Emmys were not in New York this year. I could have done without all of the fan stuff outside the ceremony. It was just fluff to fill the extended show (from 2 hours to 3 hours), which could have been better used to present additional award during the telecast.

Speaking of presenting awards, who picked this order. Did ABC know who the winners were and thus stacked to end the evening on a GH high? Leading Female is one of the biggest awards of the night (more so than Male lead) and was bumped up to the first half of the program.

Daytime Emmys: All the Experts

Now that I have finally finished posting my picks for tonight, I thought I would venture out and see what other experts are picking. We seem very agreed in some categories and not in others.

Here is a link to all the experts picks.

http://www.thesoapgoddess.com/Expertpicks.xls

2005 Daytime Emmys: Outstanding Series

The most exciting category of the night. Here are the nominees and the episodes they picked:

As the World Turns – Episode#1 Les terrorizes Lily and Carly and is revealed to be Julia's killer. Episode#2 Gwen and Jennifer go into labor at same time (beginning of baby switch).

General Hospital – Episode #1 Train crash Episode #2 More post-train crash drama, a few episodes after the first.

Guiding Light – Episode #1 Reveal of Alan as Philip's "killer". Episode#2 Sandy and Tammy's wedding.

Young and the Restless – Episode #1 Cassie dies. Episode #2 Lauren and Michael's wedding reception and the beginning of the Phyllis/Nick affair.


As the World Turns has a nice package in the first episode. There is no cliff-hanger and stands alone nicely. The beginning of the baby switch (as opposed to the conclusion) is quite a choice—but you see the beginning of the storm that is about to unfold and how it ties to many storylines.
General Hospital's episodes are heavy on special effects, which make for a win in directing but a crutch in series and maybe the reason why they are overlooked for writing. The good is that they use EVERYBODY in these episodes, which showcases some of the great acting talent that they have.
Guiding Light has a better second episode than first. This can work in their favor as it leaves the voter with a good "taste in their mouth."
Young and the Restless: pass the Kleenex, please.



Who will win: Young and the Restless
Who should win: Guiding Light


Guiding Light should win just on that beginning when the minister asks "does anyone object". The use of flashbacks from various characters' point-of-view is great. When this episode originally aired everyone was on the edge of their seat to see what would happen. And to eliminate the "Ew" factor, I don't believe it is mentioned that Tammy and Jon are cousins in that episode.
However, Young and the Restless has a killer first episode. The second episode is great in that it begins the Nick/Phyllis affair—however if voters are not full-time viewers and don't realize that impact….


Who could win: General Hospital could pull it off if there are a lot of male viewers who love the special effects that cloud over the actual story. If they do win, and after winning last year for the hotel fire, GH viewers should expect some major catastrophe each year, which will lessen their impact for viewers but be great Emmy bait.

2005 Daytime Emmys: Directing

Another category where I came in thinking Y&R was the definitive winner. They always have great camera angles, put together great shots for some of the great editing they do later. But, who knows….

Here are the nominees and the episodes they picked:

Bold and the Beautiful – Episode#1 Christmas episode where Felicia's baby is christened. Episode#2 Nick confronts Bridget on a bluff about her supposed abortion; Stephanie dares Brooke to shoot herself.

Days of Our Lives – Episode #1 Belle goes into labor, aftermath of Sammie and Lucas' interrupted wedding. Episode #2 Frankie returns, Mimi in Jail, Belle torn between Shawn and Philip.

General Hospital – Episode #1 Train crash Episode #2 More post-train crash drama

Young and the Restless – Episode #1 Cassie dies. Episode #2 Lauren and Michael's wedding.


Bold and Beautiful picked a location shoot—extra points for degree of difficulty.
General Hospital's episodes are heavy on special effects which make them more difficult to direct. Possible bonus points.



Who will win: General Hospital
Who should win: General Hospital

GH will probably win for special effects alone, something that should cause them to lose in the drama series category.

Who could win: Young and the Restless is consistently good, but the judging is just on the two episodes presented.

2005 Daytime Emmys: Writing

What makes good drama—good writing. It's the "if it's not on the page, it ain't on the stage" mantra. Oddly enough, two shows that are in contention for Outstanding Drama are NOT in the running for outstanding writing.

I came into this category thinking Y&R was the definitive winner. They always write stories that reach out across storylines. It is one of the things that make them a ratings leader. But, will it make them an Emmy winner? Again, they are judged on two episodes alone so it can be anyone's game.

Here are the nominees and the episodes they picked:

As the World Turns – Episode#1 Jennifer and Gwen go into labor at the same time; Episode#2 Dusty realizes Meg's role in the Jennifer/Gwen baby switch.

Bold and the Beautiful – Episode#1 Stephanie and Brooke gun episode; Episode #2 Christmas episode where Felicia's baby is christened.

One Life to Live – Episode#1 Rex finds Jennifer's body, Vikki tricks David and Dorian into getting together. Episode#2 Lindsey deals with Jen's death, Dorian and David start an anonymous online relationship.

Young and the Restless – Episode #1 Daniel is arrested as Cassie is barely hanging on to her life. Episode #2 Consecutive episode where Cassie dies.


One Life to Live should have picked the Daniel as killer and gay reveal. It was really strong and was the culmination of great story. The first episode was good, but the second was all over the place.
As the World Turns could have picked the baby switch culmination also, instead of the pseudo-culmination of the Meg/Dusty reveal. The former had strong acting which can only help their strong writing.
Bold and Beautiful should not have picked the Christmas episode. Those are always so contrived—although if you are looking for sappy, this is your episode.



Who will win: Young and the Restless
Who should win: Young and the Restless

I cry every time I watch the Cassie dies episode (and I had to watch four times for Emmy picks plus the original airing). Y&R picks two consecutive episodes that make it easy to follow the storyline. The second episode is stronger than the first, which is something the other shows did not accomplish. Like the other shows, Y&R start big. Unlike the others, they end strong.

Who could win: As the World Turns is a perennially favorite in this category. And, in the back of my heart, I would not mind if home-girl Jean Passanante brings home a win.

2005 Daytime Emmys: Younger Male Lead

Will the voters give Tom Pelphrey the Emmy he deserved to win last year? They have been known to try to make up for prior mistakes. Another strong contender is Jesse Soffer; his only negative is that one episode is almost entirely with Jennifer Landon who is so great she outshines him. Scott Clifton gives good blend of humor and drama but nothing overwhelming. He scores big on versatility, but low on strength of any one moment. Michael Graziadei's reel is too short for any type of lead consideration, even if it is younger lead.

Scott Clifton (Dillion, GH) - Dillion fights with Georgie and deals with Lucas admitting he's gay; Dillion blames himself for Michael's death.

Michael Graziadei (Daniel, Y&R) - Daniel reflects on Cassie's hospitalization and his role in it; Phyllis visits Daniel in jail and gives him new hope.

Bryton McClure (Devon, Y&R) - Devon worries about his dying mom; Devon catches his mom buying drugs in the park.

Tom Pelphrey (Jonathan, GL) - Jonathan lashes out at Reva, cuts his hair with a knife and realizing Dinah faking her pregnancy; Jonathan goes to see Tammy the night before her wedding to Sandy and pushes her to admit her true feelings for him.

Jesse Soffer (Will, ATWT) - Will blasts Gwen for having taken money from Paul; a jailed Will denies having poisoned Iris.

Who will win: Tom Pelphrey
Who should win: Tom Pelphrey

Tom Pelphrey can play Jonathan very strong sometimes and makes you wonder if it is overacting or just his take on Jonathan. It should not overshadow all the other great stuff on his reel. My only question on this is: will they play the theme song from Guiding Light he wins or will it be the overplayed Unbelievable when they call his name?

Who could win: Scott Clifton and Jesse Soffer also have good tapes.

Daytime Emmys: Supporting Male

Oh they love the dual roles, so Tyler Christopher does have a chance. However, I am not sure he picked the best episodes he could and could confuse voters. Trent Dawson proves he is more than a clown this year and picks two episodes that show range. Jordan Clarke has always been awesome, but really broke our hearts when he fell off the wagon. But, never rule out Greg Rikaart to repeat.

Tyler Christopher (Nikolas/Connor, GH) - Connor rapes Emily; Nikolas reels as Emily says she no longer loves him.

Jordan Clarke (Billy, GL) - Billy falls off the wagon; Billy fights the urge to crack open a bottle of whiskey.

Trent Dawson (Henry, ATWT) - Henry tries to convince wife Katie to leave him for Mike; Henry faces off with Olga with BJ.

Grayson McCouch (Dusty, ATWT) - Dusty tries to gently reject Jen's advances; Dusty blasts Meg for keeping silent about the baby.

Greg Rikaart (Kevin, Y&R) - Kevin deals with the death of his abusive dad; in therapy, Kevin addresses his feelings for Mac and anger towards J.T.

Who will win: Trent Dawson
Who should win: Jordan Clarke

Trent shows diversity and the voters seem to like that, especially in supporting roles. His comedy shows vulnerability, his dramatic moments show humor. However, I believe Jordan Clarke should win because you can just feel his pain, his embarrassment—he takes you on the ride.

Who could win: Greg Rikaart could repeat.

2005 Daytime Emmys: Male Lead

Ahh! The Lead Male Actor. Somewhat of an anomaly in the female-dominated world of soaps. Which leads to the question: can you have a "lead" male or all they all really supporting? The exception to that question is always General Hospital where almost all of the storylines are driven from male characters (ya know, mobsters, rapists). And that soap brings us the two strongest contenders.

Maurice Bernard (Sonny, GH) - Worried about Michael and Carly, Sonny confesses to A.J.'s murder; Sonny convinces Carly to get professional help.

Anthony Geary (Luke, GH) - Luke sings to a comatose Lucky; Luke begs Lucky to come out of his coma before taking him off of life support.

Robert Newman (Josh, GL) - News of Reva's supposed pregnancy leaves Josh reeling; after angrily urging Jonathan to be a better person, Josh warns Reva that he might not always be there for her.

Ron Raines (Alan, GL) - After paying a visit to a very much alive Philip, Alan is arrested for his murder; Alan confesses to Philip's shooting.

Thorsten Kaye (Zach, AMC) - Maria and Zach say farewell; Zach stuns Kendall and himself by admitting that's he falling in love.



Who will win: Anthony Geary
Who should win: Anthony Geary

Two outstanding episodes from Mr. Geary will garner him another win. Like his female version in the lead category (Susan Flannery), Anthony Geary is the standard bearer of consistently good performances (even if I hate his character).

Who could win: Never rule out Maurice Bernard, but his tapes were not as good as Geary's.

Daytime Emmys

Argh! The Goddess has been busy with some school work. I promise to have my final daytime emmy picks up this morning.

ATWT: Oakdale Confidential is bestseller

According to the writer of Oakdale Confidential, the book will be ranked at #3 on next week's New York Times bestseller list. (BTW, the NYT list always seems to be weeks behind actual sales.) The book debuted on the USA Today bestseller list at #15 this week. It has consistently be ranked on Amazon's top sellers list.

Way to go ATWT!

Now, let's all guess on whose bones (them bones, them bones, them dry bones) are in the basement. Anyone? Anyone?

GL: LIzzie's pregnant

Since soaps can be known for slow-moving storylines, I am amazed at how fast this one is moving along. First, that Lizzie is pregnant and she is realizing it.

I can't remember when she slept with Coop, but in the Lizzie Inside the Light on Wednesday she stated she slept with Jon on 4/10. There is NO WAY you would realize you are pregnant, have symptoms, and consistently test positive 9 days after conception. Pregnancy tests are making leaps and bounds but still the best only work a day or two after a missed period. If she was ovulating on 4/10 she wouldn't have even had a missed period yet. However, this should be good news that Coop, and not Jon, is the father.

Also moving along, in such a Lizzie fashion, is the purchase of baby furniture. She is like 2 minutes along in the pregnancy and she is buying baby stuff. Whew. I know if I was 19-20 and found out I was pregnant, I would still be in denial, not be in Babies R Us.

GL: Ewww, gross Ava!

Why was Ava allowed to work in a restaurant without having her shoes on. I believe they aren't allowed to serve people without shoes (No Shoes, No Shirt, No Service), so why was this allowed to happen. It was distasteful and I can't believe they kept mentioning it.

And, in the end, when Lizzie stole her shoes they were high heel boots. What kind of waitress wears high heels to wait tables. Well, besides a strip club waitress. Company is more "burger joint."

ATWT: Step Away from the Carly

What is up with Nick?! He really needs to stop sniffing around Carly. She has only brought him trouble and will now only bring him heartache when he finds out how she and Jack will never really be apart.

GL: Ross' plane crash

Well, a few weeks back on an Inside the Light we find out that Ross (who's portrayer Jerry Ver Dorn has been over at OLTL for months!) has died in a plane crash. This week, it is being investigated as a possible murder by the FAA--and subsequently the Springfield PD.

Back a fefw weeks, Alan-Michael and Alan discuss A-M's secretive dealings with Ross. Well, perhaps "discuss" is too comprehensive--it was more like mention. So, somehow Spaulding and A-M will be tied to this investigation.

However, something Alan says at the funeral makes me wonder if Ross is actually dead. Alan stated something along the lines of "Ross being up their with his son, and Ross's nephew, Philip". Uh...does Alan know something we don't? After all, we and Alan both know that Philip is really alive--something the rest of Springfield is not privvy.

Just looking for hidden meaning.

YR: DA Will Bardwell

I truly believe that Judith Champman is doing a marvelous job in the role However...

I only slightly wish that Gloria Abbott was still being played by Joan Van Ark. Then, I would love them to write in a scene where Gloria is questioned by Ted Shackelford's Will Bardwell character. The first question could be: "Don't I know you from somewhere?"

YR: Phyllis is kicked out by Victor

Of course, I am not sure what will happen today (Mon 4/17), but Friday's episode ended with Victor asking Phyllis "Where should we send your stuff" or something along those lines.

Wha?! Who is Victor to fire Phyllis from NVP. He is striclty the finanancing on this project and wasn't to have anything to say on the running of NVP. In addition, aren't Phyllis and Nikki equal partners--so no one is really the "boss".

And, shouldn't Nikki stand up for her partner. It would set a bad precedent. How is Nikki supposed to really accomplish anything in the work world when it appears that she is just a puppet and Victor pulls the strings. Noone would want to deal with her--they will want to deal only with Victor.

This says nothing that Phyllis is the creative part of NVP. She has more ideas in her pinky than Victor and Nikki have combined.

BB: Massimo's Meddling

Well, I must say I find this turn of events very interesting. We have seen Massimo act controlling in the past, but he has been kind of laid back since his stroke. Now, we see him meddle in the Ridge/Brooke/Nick triangle in an attempt to seperate Brooke and Nick. He has gone as far as to have Jackie (Nick's mother) arrested on various tax charges.

It is so very "Stephanie" of him. Hmm...I wonder what Queen Stephanie will think when she finds out he has been pushing Brooke and Ridge together (something she has always dreaded).

2005 Daytime Emmys: Female Younger Lead

Female Younger Lead

Another tough, tough category in my mind before viewing the episodes each of these delights picked for us.


Emmy Reels:
Mandy Bruno (Marina, GL) - With Michelle preparing to leave town, Marina worries she's going to lose Danny; realizing Danny loves his ex-wife, Marina breaks things off.

Camryn Grimes (Cassie, Y&R) - At the hospital, Cassie talks to the police and prepares to have surgery; with her family gathered, Cassie dies.

Christel Khalil (Lily, Y&R) - Lily confronts Malcolm and Dru about her paternity; Lily says farewell to her friends, family, and Daniel.

Jennifer Landon (Gwen, ATWT) - In consecutive episodes, Gwen learns that her baby is dead and later pays a visit to the child she'd been raising as her own.

Leven Rambin (Lily, AMC) - Zach and Lily talk about life and parenting; Sam's visit with Lily is interrupted by Aidan.


Who should win: Jennifer Landon
Who will win: Camryn Grimes

I think the voters might like to give this one to Camryn as a nice goodbye present. Then again, maybe the voters might like to show respect to Michael Landon via a vote for his daughter. Both had spectacular tapes and Camryn's was especially heart-wrenching. This might be what puts her over the top. However, Jennifer Landon's tape shows vulnerability, a maturity beyond her years, and complete devastation.


Who could win: rule out no one!

I really wondered how Mandy Bruno and Christel Khalil were nominated until I saw their episodes. Mandy's shows a nice mix of comedy (in the form of manic-talking Marina) and drama (when she breaks up with Danny). The voters tend to like when actors show a range. However it wasn't anything that just jumped out at you.
Christel Khalil really picked a dynamic episode where she confronts her mom and uncle/dad about paternity test results they left lying around the house. The other episode is sad, but not as great as the first which might hurt her chances.
Leven Rambin is a complete dark horse. She plays the role of Lily quite well. If you have ever spoken to her or seen her in other roles you realize how great a job she is doing. However, that is not necessarily the case with the Emmy voter. And, she may be another victim of bad episode picking. She has some good stuff out there and I wonder why she picked these two particular episodes. If/when she gets a really meaty storyline she will be a definite winner!

GL: Inside the Light

Oh no! Not another Josh and Reva "Inside the Light". Is the plan to have at least one of these each month? Aargh!

ATWT: The Oakdale Library

Just a quick note that as a librarian, I am thrilled to see that the Oakdale Library is hopping! Too bad they don't have more sense than to hire Jade. (Then again, she came with Lily's recommendation--probably something Lily will later regret.)

2005 Daytime Emmys: Female Supporting

I really thought this would be the most difficult category to pick. However, I have seen the tapes and now there is such a clear-cut winner, that I can't imagine my pick is that far off from the actual voters. The reason: it is all in what you pick for your reels. It can make or break you (ask Michelle Stafford) and this year it quickly culled some of the competition.


Emmy Reels:
Tracey Bregman (Lauren, Y&R) - Michael and Lauren play strip word association; Lauren accepts Michael's proposal.

Crystal Chappell (Olivia, GL) - A gun-toting Olivia is taunted by Gus, who wants her to confess to Philip's murder; Olivia copes, as Bill walks out on her.

Jennifer Ferrin (Jennifer, ATWT) - Jen reacts to the death of her baby; Jen tries to keep Dusty from realizing she is on drugs.

Renee Elise Goldsberry (Evangeline, OLTL) - Evangeline ends things with John; Evangeline reflects on her relationship with John, as her portrayer sings.

Gina Tognoni (Dinah, GL) - Dinah tells Edmund that she lost the baby and is comforted by Jonathan; Dinah leaves a drunken message for Mallet, which leads to them making love.


Who should win: Crystal Chappell
Who will win: Crystal Chappell


Oh my gosh, what was Tracy Bergman thinking when she picked the "strip word association" episode? It was cute and all, but hardly showing her talents. Why not pick any of the Sheila drama that ended the year?
Renee Elise Goldsberry didn't show much range in her stuff, which is too bad since I really like her character. And enough with the singing (that goes for all soap stars—are you listening Jack Wagner?!)!

Who could win: Gina Tognoni or Jennifer Ferrin
I thought both of these daytime divas had a chance before I saw their reels and really would make this the toughest race. Jennifer picked some good stuff and could pull it off, however Crystal Chappell's stuff is just so strong. And, I can't help but secretly pull for Gina.

ATWT: Oh Jack!

Oh, why is ATWT playing with my emotions?! Another Jack and Carly split. The longing in each other's eyes, but the refusal by Jack to forgive Carly. I know, I know-Carly does stuff that is just so off the wall, but she has good intentions. BTW, I did like how Hal compared her to Barbara (who is also always claiming "good intentions") and when Carly objects, he states that their rap sheets are practically identical. Hmmm..good point.

However, what I would like to see happen is the point of this post.

I would love to see Jack tie this drugging Nick and the sexual setup to his past experience of being drugged and raped by Julia. ATWT never dealt with the trauma associated with male rape. And macho police-officer Jack isn't going to admit that he is suffering or ask for help. I would like to see this tied together, along with Carly's drugging Gwen, as sort of a PTSD storyline.

2005 Daytime Emmys: Female Lead

When the nominations came out, there was a lot of buzz around Kelly Monaco. I am not sure if this was because of the whole Dancing with the pseudo-Stars or what. I will admit that I don't watch GH. However, I did watch Port Charles and was never impressed with her acting, yet maybe she has matured. That said, I did watch the episodes that were submitted for the reels (Thanks, SoapNet!) and still don't see it. Here are the episodes each female choice for their reel.

Bobbie Eakes (Krystal, AMC) - In consecutive episodes, Krystal tries to talk Babe out of reuniting with JR and later plays sexy mind games with Adam.
Beth Ehlers (Harley, GL) - Harley lashes out at Mallet for "killing" Gus; before being sentenced, Harley pushes Gus away.
Susan Flannery (Stephanie, B&B) - Stephanie suggests Brooke shoot herself; Stephanie confronts Eric with proof that she owns Forrester.
Kelly Monaco (Sam, GH) - Sam gets drunk while playing dominoes with Jason; Sam urges Jason to have brain surgery.
Kim Zimmer (Reva, GL) - Reva reacts to news that her pregnancy is actually menopause; Reva admits to Josh that he's not enough for her.


It only takes two episodes to win. So, you can have crap all year and just pull off two stellar episodes. Of course, it's hard to get your show to make you a pre-nominee if you have crap, but…


Who will win: Susan Flannery
Who should win: Susan Flannery

Susan Flannery is the most consistently great performer on daytime. I personally, don't like her character, so this isn't a "playing favorites" type thing. She picked reels that mixed humor (although it was only us at home ROTFLAO) and some high drama. Of course, I could have done without the knee to the groin. But, that was the writing not the acting. The only Emmy question surrounding Susan Flannery is "will she ever 'pull an Oprah' and take herself out of the running?"

Who could win: Bobbie Eakes or Kim Zimmer. When Reva tells Josh he isn't enough for her it would just break your heart right along with Josh's.

2005 Daytime Emmy Awards

Oh time to pick the Emmy winners. I will include a list of what each actor chose for their emmy reel and then my choices. I will start with Lead Female as it might be the easiest to pick and try to end with Oustanding Show. My goal is to do a few each week and end by the time of the telecast. Let me know what you think and if you agree/disagree with my picks.

GL: Things just aren't right

I am finally caught up on GL (one good thing you can say about basketball pre-emptions) and can't believe what is happening on GL.

First, Harley and Mallet find Beth and Alan. Beth and Alan feed them a line of crap and Harley just buys it. All I could think was "call in CSI" hoping they would find some evidence of Gus at the cabin.

Second, thank God the Sandy-era is over at GL. Of course, he will be able to destroy Tammy and Jon from the grave better than when he was alive. But, that's soaps. If couples didn't have hurdles they would be boring.

Third, has Cassie lost her ever-lovin' mind?! I might have been dreaming but it seems that Cassie has locked her daughter up with a dead body. And she was just extoling how life with her was better than foster care. Actions speak louder than words--matter fact they are screaming out loud!

ATWT: Jade's misguided logic

So, to escape being sent away for her fradulent ways, Jade convinces Luke to make it appear they slept together. Isn't this backward logic?

I can't think of anything that would get someone kicked out FASTER than sleeping with their teenage child in their home.

ATWT: Carly and Jack

All I could think was "here we go again" when Jack confronted Carly on Wednesdays episode. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how it ended.

Carly, as usual, was explaining why she did what she shouldn't have done and why she didn't really think the whole thing through. Jack, naturally and as always, was not happy.

As he left to go into work, Carly told him she loved him. Jack's reply: "I know." And he walked to the door.

But...

Then he stopped and said "I love you too".

Of course, I cried right along with Carly. It all confirmed why I love Carly and Jack!

BB: Felicia as the unDead

Any savvy soap viewer saw this coming from the moment Stephanie said she ran down to San Diego to check out alternate treatments for Felicia. Only Stephanie could be so over-involved in her children's lives that she can't even let them die in peace.

Of course, to Steph's credit, it appear that all Felicia needs is a liver transplant (Steph is the natural donor) and some chemo and she will be good as new. What a miracle!

So, maybe we saw this coming when Stephanie went to San Diego. Or, in knowing that Leslie Kay is too great a talent to kill off within a few months was the better clue to this overdone storyline.

Teen Marriage Week on Daytime

What is up with the stories? We have Gwen and Will both getting married on ATWT. Then, on GL, you have a faux "lets just recite vows" between-you-me-and-the-wall wedding of Jon and Tammy.

I guess that latter was an excuse to have them finally sleep together. Well, come to think of it, maybe it is a way for the writers to justify teen sex: "They are married!"

But, I am not going to pooh-pooh any of this. I think romance is lacking on daytime so I'll take it in any form. And I love both of these couples, however unrealistic it is to think that you have found your life partner at 17.

YR: JT and Victoria "hook up"

Why JT and Victoria sleeping together works better storyline wise than JT falling back into bed with Colleen:

There are many more ripples to the story if JT and Victoria hook up. As in the Brad dynamic. And if/when Brad finds out, does he or doesn't he tell Colleen? And if Brad dumps Victoria once and for all over this, does he seek solace in Sharon. And how does that affect the Nick/Phyllis affair?

This isn't just a triangle (which would only be if you have JT and Colleen hook up) but more like an octagon.

ATWT: Oh Carly!

Oh Carly! Why do you get into such mischief. I just want to yell at the TV and plead with my Carly not to pull some silly stunt that will surely backfire. Well, Lily did say as much.

She just gets into such predicaments and I am on the edge of my seat wondering if/how/when she will get out of hot water.

ATWT: Nick--the Gigolo Detective

I am a little behind on my ATWT viewing and I just finished Tuesday's (3/7) episode. Did Nick think that Katie wouldn't think something was up when he left to do "police business" looking like the American Gigolo?

But, then come to think of it, that seems to be Nick's style--all gigolo.
It's no secret that I really don't like this character--especially since he is messing with my favorite: Carly and Jack.

BB: Go away, Nick!

Oh, why doesn't Nick just leave well enough alone (and leave Brooke alone). It is never going to be acceptable for Brooke and Nick to be together. And, I never bought that "epiphany" on the Shady Marlin between Brooke and Nick.

And, Brooke girl, no matter how much encouragement you may be getting from Bridget or Stephanie now, it will always be thrown in your face in the future. Bridget is suffering from the trauma of a miscarriage. Stephanie has her obvious motives. Run, Brooke, Run. Run right back to Ridge.

YR: Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God!

I almost fell off the couch when Phyllis through Lily's paternity in Dru's face (and Lily overhearing the whole thing). I almost forgot that Phyllis knew about Malcolm. Not that the high-and-mighty Dru doesn't deserve some wrath, but poor Lily.

However, this will make for some good story in the next days and weeks. (And to think that I usually watch Y&R last of all my soaps!)

BB: Ridge and Brooke

The writers did a good job in the post-proposal scenes. It made me remember why I love Ridge and Brooke and why I have since day one of the show.

BB: Conditional Love

I love Brooke's response to Ridge's proposal. She laid out conditions for them to be married, basically saying she wouldn't tolerate his BS anymore. Of course, Brooke bashers will hate this. But, I love that Brooke is finally showing some backbone when it comes to the Forresters.

BB: Go Brooke, Go Brooke...

Related to the post below.

I was loving Brooke finally standing up for herself and not allowing Ridge to not stand beside her. One of the best lines of the week had to be "Either you support me in this or you go home with your mother and let her tuck you in!"

BB: Stephanie

When will Stephanie ever leave things to run their natural course? At this point, her interference in everything is laughable. She really defines the word "busy body."

AMC: History Lost

Back in the early 1970's, AMC broke ground and had an abortion storyline. In that story, Erica aborted but to balance things she came down with some sort of reaction and nearly died. Well, not staying true to its history, she actually didn't have an abortion but an embryo transplant. Is that right?

I know soaps like to create these long-lost children, especially for their marquee players. However, this just undid a ground breaking story.

What next? Bianca as a lesbian is just a dream (ala Bobby in the shower on Dallas).

ATWT: Jennifer as a cop?

Really, now. You're dad is chief of detectives, but do you really have that much pulll that the Oakdale Police Department are willing to violate someone's rights so you can have them brought into the police station. And to add to it, you are the one that questions the pseodo-psychic.

ATWT: Who the hell do you think you are, Dusty?

Dusty has never been accused of lacking machismo. I really wonder what soft-little flower Jennifer sees in him (well--she is the eternal victim). But, this week he was something else. First, he threatens pseduo-psychic lady. He completely talked to her like he would to some dude, complete with threats of bodily harm. WTF? As mad as you may be, Dusty, are you really going to strike a woman?

And then Friday, he and Paul are going to come to blows? Tone it down a bit, for your own sake.

GL: Mel and privilege

Mel, you can't really claim doctor/patient privilege over something like this. This wasn't something said in a counseling session. It doesn't deal with this direct medical records.

I'm just so glad that it looks like Josh it gonna blow the doors off Jeffrey!

GL: Harley on Valentine's Day

So there's Harley in her unfinished house starting a fire where the fireplace will be in the completed house. Now part of this makes sense since Harley and Gus have gone to the house and pretended it was finished and marked where everything would be if it was done.

However, all I could think during those scenes were:

1) why isn't this house finished yet? Surely, as a CEO Harley has enough $$ to pay a contractor

2) why is she starting a fire in this unfinished house and will Jonathan be blamed when it spreads?

Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced

The Daytime Emmy Nominations were announced on Wednesday. I am surprised at some who were nominated over those who were left out, but that's a whole nother post for another week.

I will comment on each of the categories as time for the awards ceremony approaches. However, I would like to make an overall comment. The lead female/male actor categories are very vanilla this year. I believe the winners will be of no surprise. However, the supporting category for both male/female actor are jam-packed with exceptional talent and will prove to be quie a contest.

For a look at the nominations, click on the link below:
http://www.emmys.org/awards/daytimeawards_noms.php

GL: Harley sleeps with Mallet

And the winner of the stupidest plot twist of the month! (I know the month isn't over, but I can't imagine anything topping this one.)

Why oh why would Mallet sleep with Harley. Harley can at least use some type of "out of my mind with grief" but what was Mallet hoping to gain by seemingly taking advantage of that grief.

And speaking of silly ways to grieve, when did Harley become Brooke Logan Forrester? I love my Brooke, but she will fall into bed with anyone and even has with the "grief" excuse. It is sad to see Harley in the same category. Actually she might be worse. When talking to Cassie about Gus's "death" she said something like "I have my own way to grieve". Yes, my way to grieve my husband's death is to jump in the sack with one of my many ex-husbands.

I just hope they don't take this twist further by having Harley find out she's pregnant.

I am more disappointed because I am a Dinah and Mallet fan. However, it is lame storytelling too.

GL: Framed and Matted

The other day, I noticed that on the wall at Company there is a MISSING poster for Gus and Alan. Now, this makes sense for a missing/wanted poster to be hanging in Company. After all, Harley is married to Gus and Harley's father owns Company.

However, the MISSING poster was matted and framed! Who went to the trouble to do that? Doesn't that take away from the signs efficiency?

The only other place I have seen something like that is in BBQ or Western type places that try to give the place an "authentic" look. But, those missing and wanted posters are from a hundred or so years ago (e.g. Jesse James).

The framed and mattted MISSING flyer is just silly.

ATWT: Rose's daughter

I had to laugh at today's (Wed, 2/8) episode when Lily was calling the orphanage to inquire on this new-found daughter of Rose's. Sister Anne states that she was concerned to send the daughter to Lily's home because she is of mixed race. I fully expected Lily to say "Are you kidding? One of my daughter's was switched at birth with a mixed baby and we couldn't tell for years!"

King of Queens is a soap fan?!

On Monday's (2/6) episode of King of Queens, "Apartment Complex", something happens that makes me think that the Heffernan's are soap fans. Early on in the episode, the boys poker game is being forced to move to another locale. Danny Heffernan, played by Gary Valentine and who is the main character's cousin, is reading a magazine in the living room. When the dialogue turns to him it is obvious he is reading Soap Opera Weekly. Since he didn't bring any magazines in with him, one must assume someone in the household is a fan. The more I think about it, the more I think it might be Carrie's father, Arthur (played by Jerry Stiller).

YR: John's face first on the pavement!!

John has passed out at the front door and is found by Ashley. My question: where was all the media from the supposed "media circus" outside the Abbott mansion? Shouldn't they have either called for help or tried to assist?

ATWT: Lisa, Lisa, Lisa

I guess you have to catch Lisa on a good day. One day she is all understanding of Gwen's predicament and offering her room, board and a job. The next she turns into the Wicked Witch of the West.

Of course, I find it amazing that Lisa's security did a "clean sweep" of the room and could not find the necklace that Babs easily stumbled upon.

ATWT: Dead Men Don't Use Cellphones

Why, oh why, is Paul Ryan using his cell phone? Isn't he thinking this through? The police will wonder why there is activity on a cell phone for a presumed dead man.

Or maybe we just missed the part where Meg bought a pre-paid cell phone for him to use. Yeah, that's it...we must missed it.

GL: Dinah and Mallett

Soap don't often get it right. The spend too much time on mysteries, corporate intrigue and suspense. They don't spend enought time on romance.

That said, GL is getting it right on two fronts. The Tammy and Jon storyline has been great. However, the story that has surprised me the most and that I love so much is the Dinah and Mallett hookup. I think viewers can related to Dinah's fear of intimacy and getting burned. We can relate to the hesitancy as she tries to avoid getting burned over Mallet's lingering feelings for Harley.

Writers: This is what we want!! We want more romance, less murder mystery. Are you listening?!

Goddess' Programming Note

I finally figured out the blogroll thing. Yippee!!

However, for some reason my template looks goofy. All of the side bar items are way at the bottom. I am going to have to work on that...

ATWT: Paul's Memorial Service

I knew as soon as the service was mentioned that Paul would want to sneak into the memorial. I was just hoping, praying, anything that Meg wouldn't mention it when she went to treat Paul. But, of course, Meg hasn't figured Paul out like the home viewers have and opened her mouth. Then--of course (again)--Paul's first reply is that he must go to the service.

I almost hope Paul get's caught since he is being so silly.

As far as the service goes, what was Emily thinking. A bit heavy on the cleavage with her funeral dress. I know Henry was dressing her as the "merry widow," but next time let's have a bit less "merry" and emphasize more "widow."

YR: The men just don't get it

I realized something when watching Y&R this week in regards to the spa/wellness center storyline. Every woman who comes across the proposal is very enthusiastic. Jack and John both pooh-pooh the idea since it may create lawsuits. What they are missing is that such enthusiasm that has been spurned by Phyllis, Jill and now Gloria is priceless. They need to harnass that enthusiasm to Jabot's benefit--and profits. Just buy the appropriate insurance to cover your ass-ets. Now, Victor latched right on the enthusiasm. I guess, in the end, he is always the better business person. (Though I am personally NOT a fan of the Victor character).

GL: Reva and Josh

Okay, the Reva and Josh "Inside the Light" episode (Wed, 1/11) wasn't the complete snoozer I thought it would be (could be the Tammy and Jonathan moments). However, watching that episode and Thursday/Fridays episode I realize that the Reva-Josh thing has one big flaw: Reva!
Reva doesn't really want Josh. Her other problem is she doesn't want Josh to be with anyone else. Maybe Reva just needs another love interest (a non-Lewis, perhaps) to lose the latter. Then again, in the past she has been that way even when she was with someone else.

BB: Stephanie's moral relevancy

I couldn't believe Thursday's (1/5) episode where Stephanie spent the entire half-hour telling Taylor that she should not tell her husband about her little tryst a while back with James.
It was total moral hypocrisy. I couldn't help but think that "Hey Steph, you were soooo upset over Eric's little withholding of information just a few weeks back. And Eric had the same excuse of wanting to keep the status quo with family (and business)".

I really don't understand Stephanie's moral relevancy.

BB: Oh Darla

I couldn't believe it last week when Darla actually encouraged Hector to pursue Taylor. I mean, she hates Ridge but that is no excuse to try to break up your brother-in-laws marriage. At least Thorne tried to set her straight (I just love, love, love Thorne) and questioned if she didn't believe in the sanctity of marriage. However, Darla's reply of "I believe in the sanctity of our marriage" was awful. Either marriage is sacred or its not. You can't pick and choose.

BB: Was Brooke hysterical?

Some have classified Brooke's reaction to finding Hector and Taylor in a compromising position as "hysterical". Regarding Brooke's "hysterics", remember what had just happened an hour or so before she found Taylor and Hector (it was almost a week for us but just an hour or so in 'soap time'). Brooke had just been told over-and-over by Stephanie that she wasn't good enough, that Taylor was a saint and that her "non-marriage" to Ridge would have never lasted because Taylor would never bring scandal or be tabloid fodder.
So, here you are feeling low but resolved to buck-it-up and go visit your baby's father for your son's sake. Instead you are confronted with the not-so-perfect Taylor in a oh-so-compromising position. You think "what the f...my marriage was ruined, my family split apart so Taylor could play light the match with the fireman?!!"
I completely understand Brooke's reaction then and later to Taylor. She rightly pointed out that though Taylor never claims her "perfection", Taylor also doesn't stop Stephanie and others from perpetuating the myth.

BB: Loving the new Brooke vs Taylor fued

I love that the shoe is finally on the other foot in the old Brooke vs Taylor fued. Maybe Stephanie, Ridge and the rest of the world will see that Taylor is not so "perfect" as they make her out to me.

I am glad that Brooke had the upper hand on this one. Maybe it is the road to a Brooke-Ridge reunion. (Well...a goddess can hope, can't she?)

ATWT: Emily shoots Paul

Well, Emily shooting Paul was the last thing I expected. I almost fell out of my chair Thursday when she did it. Then, they top it off Tuesday with Emily pushing Paul over the side of a hill (cliff?) hoping his body would not be found. It was completely shocking!

However, I was secretely hoping that when Paul climbed back up the side of the hill (cliff?) that Meg would have seen who it was, be mad that Paul was part of her reason for the Dusty blowout, and she too would have pushed him back over the hill/cliff. I just thought that would have been kinda funny---Paul would be thinking "can I ever get a break?" But, Paul is a Stenbeck and even two pushed down a hill wouldn't be the end of him.