35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Lead Female

The highlight category of the evening (aside from Outstanding Drama). Frankly, I would be thrilled if any of these fabulous ladies won.

Crystal Chappell as Olivia Spencer on Guiding Light
1st reel: Olivia calls off her wedding to Buzz due to confusion about her feeling about Jeffrey.
2nd reel: Olivia blackmails Reva over the truth that Jonathan and Sarah are alive

I love the character of Olivia, but am unsure if this is her best work from 2007 (it WAS a long time ago). The first tape shows range, but the second reel--she may be walking precarious ground by risking being overshadowed by Kim Zimmer (Reva).

Jeanne Cooper as Katherine Chancellor on Y&R
1st reel: Katherine reveals that many decades ago she switched Jill's baby shortly after birth.
2nd reel: Katherine and Amber during Out of the Ashes/Clear Springs disaster

The first reel was strong, but can it overcome bad writing? The second reel shows why she should not be in the lead but in the supporting category. Nothing much there.

Nicole Forrester as Cassie Winslow on Guiding Light
1st reel: Cassie holds vigil at duaghter Tammy's bedside after a car accident
2nd reel: Tammy has died and Casie intially tries to hold emotions but eventually breaks down.

Good choices in that these are back-to-back reels. It is easy for the viewer to follow-along on what is happening. However, there is a lot of crying. What she is lacking in range in these tapes is made up for with acting that matches the meaty material she is being given.

Michelle Stafford as Phyllis Newman and Sheila Carter on Young and Restless
1st reel: As Phyllis, she bids Nick farewell on a business trip. Later, as Sheila she shoots police officer Tammy.
2nd reel: Phyllis tries to help an amnesiac Nick remember their life, while Nick's family gloats that Nick can't remember Phyllis and Nick's relationship.

The Emmy's love dual roles. However, a non-YR viewer may be confused that this is dual roles or what is happening. The second reel, which is all Phyllis, is heart breaking. Great range (happy, psycho, sad) and the aformention penchant to reward dual roles makes her a strong contender


Maura West as Carly Tenney on As the World Turns
1st reel: Carly, who thinks she is dying, makes a farewell video for her children and Jack.
2nd reel: Jack and Carly discuss their rocky relationship and Carly admits that she is the reason they are not together--for now.

Maybe my bias is showing, but she is the best of the lot. Tears-but not over the top crying,as well as showing Carly's feistiness.

Who Should Win: Maura West or Nicole Forrester
Who Will Win: Nicole Forrester
Don't Count Out: Michelle Stafford