The Soap Goddess

#ATWT: Campaign to save ATWT

2009-12-15T10:22:00.000-08:00

Let's do a campaign to save ATWT. Kind of a Jericho-style campaign, hold the nuts.

I was thinking something really simple. Sending little "Worlds" to CBS with a note that says "Don't stop our 'World' from turning!" An additional heart-felt letter might not hurt, either.

I'm thinking something simple, like these.

You can buy them in bulk at Oriental Trading (get your friends and family fellow viewers to send them, too). But, I've also seen items like these at the Dollar/99-cent Store.

It worked to get Jericho reinstated. Perhaps if CBS knew their were many passionate viewers (who may not just be a NielsenFamily) they may reconsider. Or, it may give P&G/Televest some ammo with new media outlets.

What do you say? I thiink sending these to Barbara Bloom and/or Les Moonves is most effective. I plan on sending to both.

Les Moonves

President and CEO CBS Television Network

51 West 52nd Street

New York, NY 10019

Barbara Bloom

Senior Vice President, Daytime

51 West 52nd Street
New York, NY 10019

Daytime Emmy's Drama "Pick the Winner" Ballots

2009-08-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

I created these for the party tomorrow night. Feel free to use them to follow-along at home or see how accurate your picks are vs the winners/losers of the evening.

I also have these in a PDF file, e-mail me if you want a copy and I will send them to you.

Daytime Emmy Watch Party

2009-08-18T09:42:00.001-07:00

If you are in or near St Louis, I hope you can attend. It will be a fun time.

Also, rooms are available at the hotel on Sunday night for $49 (plus applicable taxes). Let me know if you need a room and I'll make the reservation for you.

Daytime Emmys: You be the Judge, Supporting Male

2009-06-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

Our second category for YOU BE THE JUDGE is Outstanding Supporting Actor, Male. Below are the links to each nominated actor’s reel as posted on YouTube. I’ve also included the original US airdate and a one sentence synopsis of the episode. Your job is to watch and post your feedback and predictions in the comments. Well, that and have the inside dish come August 30!

Bradford Anderson (General Hospital)
June 5th, 2008
Spinelli seeks advice from Jason and then decides to go after Maxie http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...8950&feature=related

Jeff Branson (Guiding Light)
December 19th, 2008
Shayne learns that Reva has cancer
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRVgAWA8hL4
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ar2NMglxN8

Van Hansis (As The World Turns)
June 10th, 2008
Luke and Noah have a nasty breakup
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6nzYcMYLNc
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afENVwzmHVg

Vincent Irizarry (AMC)
November 3rd, 2008
David thinks about killing himself and then shows up uninvited at Babe's funeral
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eluqc65I-cM
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RuPcQxa6Ao

Jacob Young (AMC)
October 23rd, 2008
JR and Babe exchange vows before she dies
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4R7Tlj7EFTU

Daytime Emmys: You be the Judge, Supporting Female

2009-06-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

Our first category for YOU BE THE JUDGE is Outstanding Supporting Actor, Female. Below are the links to each nominated actor’s reel as posted on YouTube. I’ve also included the original US airdate and a one sentence synopsis of the episode. Your job is to watch and post your feedback and predictions in the comments. Well, that and have the inside dish come August 30!

Tamara Braun (Days of our Lives)
April 21st, 2008
Ava tries to explain her motives to Steve, Kayla, Bo and Hope
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...jHhA&feature=related
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...zdIM&feature=related
Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...IPMI&feature=related
Part 4: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...pjMU&feature=related

Melissa Claire Egan (All My Children)
September 15th, 2008
Annie tells Ryan about the miscarriage and then talks to a dead Richie
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...-fbU&feature=related
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...i7VM&feature=related

Alicia Minshew (All My Children)
Kendall tells Zach she slept with Aidan when she thought he was dead
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...1C8C1B7F023&index=16
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...1C8C1B7F023&index=17

Julie Pinson (As the World Turns)
October 16th, 2008
Janet learns that Jack almost slept with Carly and that Carly has been lying to her about it
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...feature=channel_page
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...feature=channel_page

Bree Williamson (One Life to Live)
June 26th, 2008
Jessica loses it at Nash's funeral
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zg3Kd21mR3k
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKI9TNKPj-Q
Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrZhFXLjQVE

You be the Daytime Emmy Judge

2009-06-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what determines the winner of a Daytime Emmy? Do you sit and wonder Actor A had a better year, why did Actor B win? Well, folks, it all lies in the selection of the Emmy reel. An actor can have a stellar year, but not pick an episode that reflects that and lose what should be a sure thing.

For those of you who are unfamiliar, the process is fairly simple. The shows each pre-nominate 2-3 actors in each category for their show. These pre-nominated actors each pick one episode to submit to the panel. Judging is based on that one lone episode--though it would be hard not to go in completely unbiased and aware of buzz surrounding some great performers. Note: The Bold and the Beautiful, as a half-hour show, can submit two episodes as long as they are consecutive episodes.

Now that you have been educated on the process how would you like to be an unofficial Emmy judge? Be the SuperSoapFan who goes watches the August 30 ceremony with the inside scoop. Over the next several weeks, I will post the YouTube videos of performances each actor submitted. I will finish with the three shows full episodes for Outstanding Drama. A big shout out and thank you to my friends and fellow soap fans at Gold Derby at the LA Times who joined together to compile this information.

This will be fun!

How Will History Remember the Phick-era on the Young and the Restless? #YR

2009-06-06T02:22:00.000-07:00

Did you see the Young and the Restless on Friday (06/05/2009)? What a stellar episode of the number one rated drama on daytime television!

It mostly centered (at least for me) around the Phyllis-Nick-Sharon-Jack quadrangle. However, there was some great stuff on Adam's haunting of Ashley (which ended in pure soapy Friday cliffhanger) and Mary Jane and her interaction with Nikki, Sharon, Phyllis, Paul, and--of all people--Jeffrey.

But, the stuff that really made it great (again, at least for me) were the scenes with Phyllis. We first have her at home killing time on work-related issues and so obviously dreading Nick coming home for their "big talk".

Then, we have "the big talk". Phyllis was so no nonsense. She knew right away; she stated that Nick wouldn't be struggling for words if he was staying with her. And Phyllis knew his motives. Sharon would coming running back to Nick if his marriage was already over (as St. Sharon could not possibly be personally responsible for breaking up a marriage).

It was during these scenes that I was thinking "I am soooo over Nick and Phyllis." Nick's half-hearted excuses. Nick's trying to be the good guy, when he was so obviously stomping all over Phyllis heart. Ughh....I wanted to smack him!

From Phyllis saying "I've got no more tears for you" to her exclaiming "I didn't ask for this!" we are taken on a ride both Phyllis and the viewer doesn't want to be on. Perhaps Phyllis didn't have any more tears, but I shed a few for Michelle Stafford's brilliant performance as a woman trying to remain stoic while Phyllis' world was falling apart. She continued to break my heart as she talked to Jack about her feelings and wondered if any man had ever truly understood her. It was then that Jack took her into his arms and let him know that if any ever did, it was him.

Another reason I am so over Phick is that Nick hadn't even left Phyllis for an hour before he is in the sack with Sharon. Yes, I know, at the end we have Phyllis going at it with Jack. But for them it was more of a comforting thing, a way to connect for two people who had just been surreptitiously dumped.

Yes, I am over Phick. Mostly just over Nick. I love Phyllis and think it might be promising if her and Jack got together again. I would also be okay if she didn't get into any relationship right away.

One thing I am not over is how interwoven the storyline is on YR. This Phyllis-Jack-Sharon-Nick thing also affects Billy and Chloe (as he is a possible father of Sharon's baby). It also ties into the Mary Jane and Victor plot, for it was Mary Jane who spied them through the window and inserted her "crazy eyes". With Mary Jane involved, we also have the story of Gloria/Jeffrey/Jill revenge plot on Victor. It also has ties to the Nikki/Paul coupling. And, won't Jack feel a bit of guilt that he was "comforting" Phyllis instead of protecting his sister, Ashley, who has just fallen down the stairs and possibly miscarried her baby?

That is one thing that YR does that no show also seems to do. No story exists in a vaccuum. No character only drives scenese with one or two other characters. It not only ties together, it ties together pretty nicely (in a big old bow you can wrap around an Emmy).

2008 Daytime Emmy Nominations

2009-05-16T02:42:00.000-07:00

The nominations for the 36th Annual Daytime Emmys (based on the work of calendar year 2008) were announced on the fourth hour of the Today Show on Thursday.

Drum roll, please....Here are the daytime drama nominees:

OUTSTANDING DRAMA SERIES
All My Children
Days of Our Lives
The Bold and the Beautiful

OUTSTANDING WRITING TEAM
All My Children
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
One Life to Live

OUTSTANDING DIRECTING TEAM
All My Children
Days of Our Lives
One Life to Live

OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTRESS
Debbi Morgan - All My Children
Maura West - As the World Turns
Susan Flannery - The Bold and the Beautiful
Susan Haskell - One Life to Live
Jeanne Cooper - The Young and the Restless

OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTOR
Thorsten Kaye - All My Children
Peter Reckell - Days of Our Lives
Anthony Geary - General Hospital
Daniel Cosgrove - Guiding Light
Christian LeBlanc - The Young and the Restless

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Melissa Clare Egan - All My Children
Alicia Mishew - All My Children
Julie Pinson - As the World Turns
Tamara Braun - Days of Our Lives
Bree Williamson - One Life to Live

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTOR
Vincent Irrizary - All My Children
Jacob Young - All My Children
Van Hansis - As the World Turns
Bradford Anderson - General Hospital
Jeff Branson - Guiding Light

OUTSTANDING YOUNGER ACTRESS
Meredith Hagner - As the World Turns
Rachel Melvin - Days of Our Lives
Kirsten Storms - General Hospital
Julie Berman - General Hospital
Emily O'Brien - The Young and the Restless

OUTSTANDING YOUNGER ACTOR
Cornelius Smith Jr. - All My Children
Darin Brooks - Days of Our Lives
Blake Berris - Days of Our Lives
EJ Bonilla - Guiding Light
Bryton McClure - The Young and the Restless

#GL: One good thing that could come from cancellation

2009-04-18T10:17:00.000-07:00

My ears perked up when the following was said on NPR

After 72 years of weddings and funerals, drunken confessions, faked pregnancies and deathly illnesses...

Obviously they were going to talk about a soap. But, then the entire sentence hit me:

After 72 years of weddings and funerals, drunken confessions, faked pregnancies and deathly illnesses, "Guiding Light" is going off the air.

On this nice April afternoon I had my car windows down as I sat at a traffic light. I moaned "No, No, No, No", emphasizing each "NO" with a pound to my steering wheel.

Wait, it's April 1. This is obviously some silly April Fools Joke (as I instantly slid into denial). However, the writing had been on the wall for some time. This didn't come out of nowhere, but after months of speculation in all of the Soap World.

I am getting a bit teary eyed as I type this. GL was my first love. It taught me soap. GL was the reason I watched other shows. I got hooked on ATWT when tuning into GL a few minutes early. From there I got hooked on the 12:30 story.

When I was in high school, I would race home to try to catch the last 15 minutes of the show . It was the hay day of the Four Musketeers and prior to owning a VCR. I was, and am, still devastated by the cancellation--which is probably why it has taken me a few weeks to even write about it.

I do feel one good thing could come from cancellation--freedom to the writers. Current soap writers always have to worry about going one step to far, painting that character into a corner. That doesn't mean they have always avoided it, but their trying to undo some of those "whoopsies" has made for some hare-brained storylines.

Now they can do daring stuff in the last 6 months. Make Frank a psychopath (and his love life of late could easily drive him there)? No problem! Pair up Buzz and Lizzie? Great idea! A Dinah and AC reunion? Why the heck not?!

Think of the people you could just bring back from the dead. The pairings you could put together. The storylines you could write!

I think I will like the roller-coaster that GL should send me on until September 18. That is my only request--well, that and bring back India!

ATWT: Thoughts on Meg's Baby Switch

2008-12-30T08:32:00.000-08:00

Please note this isn't a spoiler. Just a heapin' portion of speculation on my part.

It is so obvious that Meg's baby has been switched. Why? Well, they rush the baby off from the delivery room without Meg ever seeing the baby. This is key in the soap opera baby switch plot.

Now, whodunit?

Possibilities:

Suspect #1 Paul Ryan
He may have thought the only way to have a relationship with baby Eliza was to have her switched.

Suspect #2 James Stenbeck
We don't really believe he is dead, do we? Remember, he "died" while trying to hold Meg hostage in order to get his hands on the baby in the first place.

Suspect #3 Craig Montgomery
Craig would do this as revenge for Paul's role in the miscarriage of Meg and Craig's baby.

Suspect #4 Dusty Donovan
I know that's out there. But, remember, Dusty is a bit of a thug. He may think that keeping Paul's baby away from him is just revenge for Paul keeping little Johnnie away from Jen.

Suspect #5 Babara Ryan
I know, Babs is another "out there" suspect. But, like Paul, she may assume the only way she can have a relationship with her grandchild is via this baby switch.

Am I missing anyone?

Even CBS disrespects Guiding Light

2008-11-26T06:17:00.000-08:00

From the CBS website:

Friday, November 28

ATWT and B&B will be
preempted. Y&R will air as a classic episode at 12:30 pm
ET/11:30 am PT. GL will air a repeat at 1:30 pm ET/12:30 pm PT.

So, Y&R airs a "classic" episode but GL's is classified as a "repeat". Are they saying nothing in the GL vault qualifies as "classic"? Heck, with the return of Grant Aleksander as Phillip Spaulding you would think they could pull out a "classic" from the good ol' days.

BB: Role Reversal

2008-10-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

These past few days Taylor has been acting like the Old-Brooke and Brooke like the old Taylor. Taylor chasing around Ridge when he is committed to another woman is the stuff Brooke used to do all the time.

Do you think Taylor has lost it?
Lost it enough to give her child to Brooke to raise knowing it would cause a rift with Ridge?

Poor Rick--he should run back to Ashley.

Update: So, I finally watched Friday's B&B and see that Brooke came to the same conclusion I did that Taylor probably gave Jack to Brooke just to be divisive.

BB: Taylor gives her son to Brooke

2008-09-30T10:30:00.001-07:00

Are we really supposed to believe this? Taylor has problems "bonding" with her son so she gives Jack to her "sworn enemy"? Yes, the solution to not bonding with your son is to give him to another woman to raise.

I'll give you this--it's probably a first in soaps.

ATWT: "Rushing" into Marriage

2008-08-30T23:11:00.000-07:00

On Friday's (8/29) episode, Aaron tells Holden that he and Allison have decided to get married next summer. Holden asks his son "why the rush"?

This is laughable timeframe in the soap world. Most soap wedding happen two days after an engagement. So, the 9 months wait Aaron and Allison first proposed is a soap lifetime.

Of course, by the end of the episode, the wedding was moved up to "next week".

35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Outstanding Drama

2008-06-19T15:32:00.000-07:00

The pinacle category of the night. Unfortunately, the best show of the year--One Life to Live--chose terribly for their reels. This makes this a more open category, though plagued with the predictable disasters and funerals.

General Hospital
1st reel: Metro Court crisis
2nd reel: more Metro Court

GH has a chance with submission of disaster episodes. Yuck!

Guiding Light
1st reel: 70th anniversary--re-enactment of old GL radio programming
2nd reel: Tammy's funeral

The first reel is basically a valentine to the longevity of the daytime drama industry. The second reel is powerful. Could be the 1-2 punch for another GL win.

One Life to Live
1st reel: Prom musical
2nd reel: Asa's funeral

Disney influence of High School Musical hits the soaps. Great for attracing teens but not Emmys.

Young and the Restless
1st reel: News spreads thoughout Genoa City about a plane crash.
2nd reel: Out of the Ashes/Clear Springs disaster.

Same eppys as writing. The first one is great. The second one tries to use the GH formula of Emmy winning through disaster episodes. More Yuck!

Who Should Win: Young and the Restless
Who Will Win: Guiding Light
Don't Count Out: General Hospital

35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Writing

2008-06-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

Very coveted category. With 5 hours of drama to produce each week, this is probably the toughest work in the genre.

Bold and the Beautiful
1st reel: Aftermath of Brooke's rape
2nd reel: 5000th episode show featuring the four actors who have been there since the beginning.

The first episode features one of the best storylines last year. The second was campy fun. But, probably too campy to be emmy worthy. (Darn--I was pulling for B&B, too.)

General Hospital
1st reel: Metro Court crisis
2nd reel: More Metro Court

Disaster episodes have won for GH in the past. I just wish they would quit rewarding "stunts" and start rewarding year-long quality.

Guiding Light
1st reel: Tammy's funeral
2nd reel: Various characters talk about their first time having sex

First reel is powerful. Second is not as strong. If they would have reversed the order they would have guaranteed a win.

One Life to Live
1st reel: Asa's death
2nd reel: Family gathers for Asa's funeral

Probably helped with consecutive episodes. Good dialogue thoughout the episode. Likely winner.

Young and the Restless
1st reel: News spreads throughout Genoa City about a plane crash
2nd reel: Out of the Ashes/Clear Springs disaster

The first episode I watched many times on the day it first aired. It was that good. It also shows how well YR ties all their storylines together. The second reel--well see my comments on GH.

Who Should Win: One Life to Live
Who Will Win: One Life to Live
Don't Count Out: Young and the Restless

35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Lead Female

2008-06-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

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

35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Supporting Female

2008-06-19T15:03:00.000-07:00

Alway the toughest category of the evening. So much talent, only one Emmy.

Tracey Bergman as Lauren Fenmore on Young and the Restless
1st reel: Sheila, held by Paul, hurts herself and wants to go to the hospital. Lauren refused to let her leave for treatment.
2nd reel: Lauren confronts Michael and his family about Gloria's involvement in tainting some face cream.

Tracey trades in Lauren's usual nice girl for complete intolerance for Sheila and her madness, willing to let her die than take a chance she would run the street. It is good stuff, but probably not enough to match up to her weak second reel.

Judi Evans as Bonnie Lockhart and Adrienne Karakis on Days of Our Lives
1st reel: Bonnie schemes "to keep the family together" by stealing some bones from a morgue.
2nd reel: As Adrienne, she sees Patch in the hospital after many years.

Plays two characters in these reels, but not dual roles. Basically, release from one role and then reprise a role she has played in the past. Shows range--especially humor--and that could be rewarded come Emmy night.

Kelly Menighan-Hensley as Emily Stewart on As the World Turns
1st reel: Emily's life as a hooker, where the John roughs her up a bit.
2nd reel: Dusty confront Emily with his suspicions that she is a hooker

KMH had a great year and these two episodes go a way in reflecting that. Emily shows a vulnerability with the abusive John, but goes back to a woman who can defend and handle herself when confronted by Dusty. Keeping my fingers crossed.

Gina Tognoni as Dinah Marler on Guiding Light
1st reel: Dinah is released from the hospital after being shot in the head and struggles with everyday activities.
2nd reel: Dinah tries to hide her brain damage and how it affects her while conducting a television interview.

"How didn't you know it wasn't me". Classic soap line from classy actress that just breaks your heart. Could be the line that clinches her another winged statue.

Heather Tom as Katie Logan on Bold and the Beautiful
1st reel: Katie confronts her father as the shooter of Stephanie.
2nd reel: Katie visits her father in jail.

Surprising nominee considering her short-time on the show. Her first reel also contains the wonderful Kelly Lang and Susan Flannery who overshadow Tom's performance. The second reel was more of a Tom showcase, but may not be enough.

Who Should Win: Gina Tognoni
Who Will Win: Gina Tognoni
Don't Count Out: Kelley Menighan-Hensley

35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Younger Female

2008-06-19T14:41:00.000-07:00

Lots of talent in this medium for this always tough and competitive category. Many thought to deserve a nomination were overlooked, while three young ladies from Young and the Restless bring on cries of "block voting".

Vail Bloom as Heather on Young and the Restless
1st reel: Heather discovers that Paul is her father. Later she goes after Phyllis for breaking terms of her probation/early release. She changes after hearing about Daniel's rocky relationship with his mother Phyllis.
2nd reel: Heather takes Paul up on a Christmas dinner invite.

I was shocked that she was nominated, but this is a good reel. Especially when she goes after Phyllis and Daniel. From tears to bitchiness--right away.

Jennifer Landon as Gwen Munson on As the World Turns
1st reel: Jade confronts Gwen about Adam, not knowing Adam is dead at the "hands" of Gwen and Maddie who buried him.
2nd reel: Gwen comes face-to-face with doppleganger Cleo.

Can you say threepeat? Dual roles are usually guaranteed winners--though the Cloe character is awful and overly dorky and mentally imbalanced--all which equal a character that is hard to watch, which is unforatunate for Landon.

Rachel Melvin as Chelsea Brady on Days of Our Lives
1st reel: Chelsea finds out Nick has slept with ther mother.
2nd reel: Chelsea joins her sorority sisters in plotting revenge on a rapist--which backfires on her.

Do tears equal talent? Usually I would say no as most soap actresses "cry pretty". Rachel is 'crying ugly' in the first reel which makes it all seem more real. I liked the second reel better, possibly because for once a soap was showing some comeuppance for a rapist.

Emily O'Brien as crazy Jana on Young and the Restless
1st reel: Janna reveals the truth about Brad's true identity, but shows a bit of her mental imbalance (e.g. brain tumor) which makes her revelation hard to believe.
2nd reel: Jana holds Kevin and Colleen hostage in a warehouse and sets it on fire.

Reel shows wide range. First, manipulative and scheming and she locks Colleen and Kevin up in a meat locker to burn. The second shows a sweet side and a bit of Jana's idiosycrancies as she falls victim to a brain tumor.

Tammy Sursock as Colleen Carlton on Young and the Restless
1st reel: Out of the Ashes episode (Clear Springs Disaster) where Colleen and Kevin search for Adrian.
2nd reel: Colleen throws a "diveroce party" for Lily.

She is completely awful and has no business being nominated. But, I had to look at the videos as stand alones and not with a reality of her known lack of acting ability. They do show some range, drama then fun/light. But the second reel is so much fluff it is hard to watch with any serious consideration.

Who Should Win: Emily O'Brien
Who Will Win: Emily O'Brien
Don't Count Out: Jennifer Landon and Rachel Melvin

35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Lead Male

2008-06-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

In a women's medium like Daytime Drama, this is an often underserved category. The exceptions to this is Young and the Restless and General Hospital, who have men as their core characters. No surprise that men from these shows have won in the past. This year, however, is anyone's guess as a winnner.

Peter Bergman as Jack Abbott on Young and the Restless
1st reel: Jack finds out about Sharon's cheating with Brad while married to Nick.
2nd reel: It's Christmas and Jack asks Sharon to give their marriage another chance.

Peter Bergman does a great job in these reels showing his vulnerability. However, this isn't his best work of the year. I wonder why he picked this stuff over a mixture of this and maybe a Gloria confrontation (when he is being pretty mean).

David Canary as Adam & Stuart Chandler on All My Children
1st reel: Adam finds out that the baby his wife is carrying is Tad Martin's.
2nd reel: Adam has Krystal arrested

Stuart Chandler is actually in the first reel for a bit, which may help show Canary's range. And, as I will say many times during these picks: Emmy voters love the dual role. Anthony Geary as

Luke Spencer on General Hospital
1st reel: Luke discusses how he doesn't want his recent heart attack to change his life
2nd reel: Luke dreams about a life in hell during his heart surgery.

First episode is great. Second one is fair (probably would have been a good submission for writing for GH). Maybe the greatness of the first can outeweigh the blandness of the second.

Christian LeBlanc as Michael Baldwin on Young and the Restless
1st reel: Michael tries to convince William Bardwell not to press charges against his mother.
2nd reel: Michael gleefully tells Phyllis that Jack finally got was what was coming to him; later Michael agrees to defend Jana.

Typical Christian LeBlanc material. He is a great actor, so that statement is any disrespect. However, nothing really jumps out as "special".

Thaao Penghlis as Andre and Tony DiMera on Days of Our Lives
1st reel: Andre harasses Sami while dressed like a clown.
2nd reel: Andre hold Kate hostage.

He does play a good villian and he really scared me as that clown. However, that doesn't equal range.

Who Should Win: Peter Bergman (for a stellar year, despite poor submission choices)
Who Will Win: Oh, it's anybody's guess but I will stick with Bergman
Don't Count Out: The rest of them!

35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Supporting Male

2008-06-19T13:59:00.000-07:00

I like every actor in this category!

Daniel Cosgrove as Bill Lewis on Guiding Light
1st reel: Bill schemes with Doris during mayoral election returns, then goes to Olivia's to sign over custody of Gus, then finds out his father was in a drunk driving accident.
2nd reel: A family intervention on Bill, nto for drugs but that he has been acting an ass since his return.

Only back a month in 2007 and gets a nomination! Shows range in his reels. Really has a shot.

Trent Dawson as Henry Coleman on As the World Turns
1st reel: Henry and Vienna interplay.
2nd reel: Henry and Vienna non-wedding.

I watch these reels and miss that we used to have a great Henry who was on more often. Alas, we have Henry stuck with Eurotrash Vienna and possibly his last nomination until the writers move out of that sour relationship.

Brian Kerwin as Charlie Banks on One Life to Live
1st reel: Charlies tries to make amends with his son.
2nd reel: Charlie, who is drunk, talks with Vicki about the problems with his son.

Good stuff, but doesn't show much range. Doesn't tug at your heart like a scene like this should (probably because the father and son characters are unfamiliar).

Greg Rikaart as Kevin Fisher on the Young and the Restless
1st reel: Kevin turns the tables on Jana and holds her at gunpoint.
2nd reel: Kevin on a mission to find Jana, during which he laments over the damage Jana has caused, and at the end finds her.

Very emtional reels. The second one is definitely better, which will leave the viewer on a positive (vote for me) note.

Kristoff St John as Neil Winters on Young and the Restless
1st reel: Neil's wife has just died and Neil falls off the wagon and turns to the bottle.
2nd reel: Neil visits the site of Dru's death.

Consecutive reels help voters follow the story. This combined with heartbreaking material will help Kristoff St John up to the stage come Emmy night.

Who Should Win: Kristoff St John
Who Will Win: Kristoff St John
Don't Count Out: Greg Rikaart

35th Annual Daytime Emmys: Younger Male

2008-06-18T17:50:00.000-07:00

Darin Brooks as Max Brady on Days of our Lives
1st reel: Max comforts Morgan
2nd reel: Max and Stephanie flirt at the bar, then dance.

Hmmm…good tapes. I really like the story in the second one--more of what younger storylines should be about (fun, flirting and romance). However, nothing screams "special" in these reels.

Van Hansis as Luke Snyder on As the World Turns
1st reel: Luke confronts Noah about him acting straight just to please his father
2nd reel: Luke talks to his brother Aaron about Luke's boy problems

I so want Van Hansis to win that it is hard for me to say anything bad about these reels. The first one is very strong, the second one not as much. However, they both show how Van Hansis can make us ache for Luke. Crossing my fingers for him!

Bryton McClure as Devon Winters on Young and the Restless
1st reel: Devon tries to get Lily to leave Daniel who has had problems with a sex addiction, tieing it back to dealing with his mother who had a drug addiction.
2nd reel: Devon argues with Daniel, punching him.

This character is written so bland, it's hard to see the talent in the acting. However, Bryton has won before--so, he has shown he can work past that. But, this reel is shorter than a commercial break. But then again, it's reflective of the screen time for McClure.

Tom Pelphrey as Jonathan Randall on Guiding Light
1st reel: Tammy dies after Alan Spaulding sends someone to kill Jonathan.
2nd reel: Jonathan tries to set fire to Alan's home.

Tom Pelphrey rocks in this sad episode about Tammy's death. Will the fact that he has been gone from the show for over a year affect the voters?

Jesse Lee Soffer as Will Munson on As the World Turns
1st reel: Will reacts strongly and angrily as he is set up to make it appears he doesn't support Gwen or her singining career. 2nd reel: Will tries to calm Gwen who is hysterical thinking she killed Will's brother Adam

Jesse shines in the first reel, but may be overshadowed by Jennifer Landon's performance in the second.

Who Should Win: Tom Pelphrey
Who Will Win: Van Hansis
Don't Count Out: Jesse Lee Soffer

Time for my Emmy Picks

2008-06-18T17:49:00.000-07:00

Hello all.

The next few posts will have my picks for Friday's nights Emmys. I am very excited and hope you are too.

BB: Storm Suicides to Give Katie his Heart

2008-05-03T10:22:00.000-07:00

Oh wow! I've watched the Monday episode of BB about 5 times already. It is simply, in a word "Fantastic!". Great drama. Great directing. Wonderful writing. If they submit this for Outstanding Drama next year and they do NOT win a Daytime Emmy, there is no justice in this world.

Not only does it combine great soap storytelling, but they use the hospital and crime scene sets effectively. There are actual background actors used in ways not just as roaming orderly, doctors and nurses in the hospital scene.

If you haven't seen it, skip over to cbs.com. However, the video will only be up until Monday afternoon.

BB: New Katie Gets Shot

2008-04-26T07:34:00.001-07:00

I like Heather Tom, but the newKatie is still growing on me. Thus, I thought the "Katie gets shot" storyline would be a bit of a bore. However, the family reactions are just ace and have me tearing up here at my desk.

ATWT: One out of Three Ain't Bad

2008-03-08T09:27:00.000-08:00

On Thursday's episode (3/6), we came close to a trifecta.

First, a Lily and Holden love scene. (Hit)

An almost kiss between Luke and Noah. (Another almost)

Jack and Carly are in bed together, though Jack is sleeping on top of the covers. (Thus, the one out of three.)

Sigh....

ATWT: Lonely Katie

2008-03-08T07:18:00.000-08:00

I am just now watching Monday's (3/3) episode of As the World Turns. One minute, Katie is about to kiss Brad. The next, she is reaching out to Brad's brother Jack. I guess she is just lonely, but try to keep it to one man a day. Or, at least, one man an hour.

Daytime Emmy Pre-Noms are Out!

2008-02-23T11:32:00.001-08:00

TV Guide's Nelson Branco has posted the list of pre-nominations.

BB: Will Stephanie's blackmail catch up with her?

2008-02-23T09:28:00.000-08:00

As part of both Thursday and Friday's cliffhanger, Stephanie is about to tell Det Baker and son that Storm is the one who shot her. However, will it also be uncovered that Stephanie has known for sometime and blackmailed the Logan family with promises of keeping quiet?

Also, it could also be revealed Stephanie's role in Brooke's rape.

I would love if that happened. If as the story is told, Det Baker says well it looks like we have to make an arrest---and go for Stephanie instead of (or in addition to) Storm.

Well, a Goddess can dream, can't she?

Y&R: Practice What You Preach

2007-12-28T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Young and the Restless often slips in pro-environment messages within their stories and dialogue. As a "green" person myself, I appreciate it. However, what the characters say and do seem to be miles apart.

Last week, several of the female characters were wearing sleeveless blouses or low-cut tops. At the same time, each talks about how cold it is outside. Well, that only says you have the heat in the house cranked up above what it should be for people who talk a pro-environment message.

Walk the walk if you are going to talk the talk. Turn down the thermostat and put on a sweater/sweatshirt and/or a few layers.

YR: Is it a disguise if it's obvious who you are?

2007-11-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

Today's episode of Y&R has Amber parading around as "Marina" and trying to trap Cane. It is so her voice. I was really listening today (not looking at the television) and though "now what is Amber doing?"

Add to that, when you look at her--it is her face!!!! Not much of disguise.

And how dumb is Cane if he can't realize that--and he was married to her.

What's Up ATWT!!!

2007-10-30T18:04:00.000-07:00

Someone must have gotten the scheduling screwed up. Today (Tuesday, 10/30) we had Emma Snyder AND Bob and Kim Hughes all on the same episode!

If we could have just had some Lisa, Lucinda, and Nancy I wouldn't know what to do.

ATWT: Hand-held cameras

2007-10-09T15:48:00.000-07:00

It seems as if the Al's set is built too far from a power outlet. They have been using hand-held cameras in the scenes set there for a while.

It often makes for creepy camera angles and occasionally makes me a bit queasy to watch.

ATWT: Carly and Chemo

2007-10-09T15:22:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind on my ATWT viewing comments. Last week, Carly went in and was told that chemotheraphy might be an option to prolong her time with her kids.
Carly's only comment was that she was afraid to loser her hair.

What?!

I've known people who have gone through chemo. They are so weak most of the time they can barely function. By the time they feel better, it is time for another chemo treatment.

Why would she choose that course of action. While it may give her more days on this earth, sometimes you have to think about the qualityof time, not just the quantity.

CBS Videos

2007-10-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am growing impatient here.

CBS is to post same-day episode videos by 5 PM Central Time. Here it is almost 8:30 and no sign of today's eppy.

So much for catching up while I am at work.

ATWT: "My Carly" can NOT be dying

2007-10-02T18:21:00.000-07:00

Turn on the TV and pass the Kleenex! Boy, nothing like a good cry every day that Carly is featured on my favorite soap. Every time she has to tell someone about her brain legion and its terminal diagnosis, I just tear up!

Will this bring Jack and Carly back together?
Will he realize that he is losing the love of his life?

Of course, this is a soap and I just know that there is going to be some sort of miracle cure. But, in the meantime the drama is great!

BB:Brooke's Scarlett O'Hara moment

2007-09-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

As a birthday treat to me (oh yeah and Happy B-day to Michelle Stafford, too) Bold and the Beautiful rocked. As Eric, Ridge and Brooke realized that Stephanie was the one who "served Brooke up on a silver platter".

The only thing that would have made it dynamo would be Stephanie's presence in the scene. Alas, Susan Flannery is down with illness and is taking a much deserved break.

That small thing aside, KKL's Brooke was wonderful once she got to the Forrester Mansion. She screamed, she hollered, she broke things! Once the intense rage was out of her system, she resolved to become the strong women she was before. That instead of bringing her down, she would be even better than before. That she would be a rape survivor.

Listen up other shows--this is how you tell a rape story. Not two months later the victim is in love with her attacker.

ATWT: Friday was a real FRIDAY!

2007-08-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

Now that was good soap opera! Classic Friday cliff hangers on ATWT this Friday. First you have Luke and Noah sharing their first kiss. Then, Carly sinking into the quicksand. (Though you would think Carly would be a bit more experienced after Julia had her in quicksand at one point.)

Can't wait for today's show!

BB: Stephanie is such a Hypocrite!

2007-08-03T10:56:00.000-07:00

For years, Stephanie has chided Brooke by saying that Brooke is so desperate for love and not to be alone that Brooke has sacraficed her pride and self-respect.

Well, today (Friday, August 3), Stephanie--in an attempt to get Ridge and Ashley back together--she uses her relationship with Eric as an example. She tells Ridge that sometimes, that no matter how much someone has hurt you, pride won't snuggle you in bed at night.

Isn't this the exact opposite of what she has been telling Brooke for years (in attempt to keep her away form Ridge)?

BB: Oh Mama!

2007-07-18T06:59:00.000-07:00

I find it a bit ironic what the "other mothers" are doing while Brooke is having her children removed by Child Protective Services.

Ashley spends the night with Ridge to help out. However, no Abby in sight.

Stephanie is being over-meddlesome, but the last we saw her other son Thorne he was drinking and downing some pills.

Umm...perhaps one should focus on their own kids before looking down their noses at my Brooke.

Relatedly, what is Thorne doing?! Is this a suicide attempt? Oh no. He is too hot to go off the show. Put him back with Brooke.

YR: A "Nick" observation

2007-07-05T17:03:00.001-07:00

Just catching up on my YRs. Several times Nick has said to Phyllis in regards to Summer "She's beautiful. Of course, I will be there for her."

Umm...so if Summer was an ugly baby he would treat her like he is treating Phyllis?

YR: If the rumors are true, I am just heartbroken.

2007-06-21T16:13:00.000-07:00

Adrienne Leon, the actress who (until recently) played the role of Colleen Carlton on YR has been fired from her position. According to a post on her MySpace blog, she states that she was told of this firing after she taped her final episodes.

Now comes word (rumor) that AL was fired from the job because of recent weight gain. What?! This is a beautiful actress--beautiful face, beautiful hair and a beautiful curvy body. Was she really fired because she wasn't a stick figure?! And, if anything, the role of Colleen should be played with someone who isn't overly thin because the character's mother (Tracy) also struggled with weight issues.

It has been revealed that Tammin Sursok, an Australian actress, has been recast in the role. Hmmm...another foreigner taking our American jobs! :)

CBS Soaps are now online!

2007-06-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

Yippee!

Three soaps from the CBS Daytime lineup will now be available for same day viewing on the CBS.com website. As the World Turns, Guiding Light, and Young and the Restless will be available. (Curious that there is no Bold and the Beautiful.) It even looks like a week or so may be kept in archives for viewing.

Here is the announcment on the site:

Watch Full Daytime Episodes Now! Did you miss your favorite soap today? Full streaming episodes of ATWT, GL and Y&R are now available exclusively on CBS.com. Beginning at 3pm PT/6pm ET, you can catch the same day’s entire episode right on your computer!

Watch ATWT
Watch GL
Watch Y&R

I tested with today's ATWT. The video streaming had no glitches. However, the sound during the show seemed to come through my left earphone and during commercials or credits from my right earphone. This wouldn't necessarily bother me except that I was watching at work and usually only cover one ear. (So, I would hear fine one moment and hear nothing the next.)

ATWT: Welcome back Craig!

2007-06-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

This past week, with the Craig and Meg wedding, has really spotlighted how wonderful Scott Bryce is in this role. At first, I was a bit hesitant (and confused) to fully embrace him since it meant a firing for Jeffrey Meeker. (That and I personally love, love, love Hunt Block!)

Anyway, Scott Bryce's Craig has just been rockin' it this week.

A Little Scoop, or slip of the tongue, from the Emmys

2007-06-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

Guiding Light fans may have got a glimpse of what is coming up on GL in the coming weeks. Two storylines may have had scoop released.

1) When Kurt McKinney (Matt) was pointed out by fellow castmate, Ricky Paul Goldin, RPG said something to the effect that "here's Matt, back from the dead". Will Mallet actually go through with the hit on Matt?

2) When Beth Chamberlain introduced herself she stated she played the role of Beth Raines Baur. Now, I guess one could confuse the two of the major families of Springfield--the Baurs and the Spauldings. Or, will Beth and Rick be walking down the aisle in order to legitimize the baby that Rick (and Beth and Alan as well) thinks is his?

2006 Daytime Emmys: Outstanding Drama Series

2007-06-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

Nominees and Episodes

Bold and the Beautiful
Stephanie confronts her mother about past abuse
More Steph confronting about Dad's beatings

Guiding Light
Jonathan thinks about actions since coming to town
Dinah and Mallet's non-wedding

One Life to Live
Todd's Execution
John's Funeral

Young and the Restless
Ice storm hits Genoa City
Speculation episode on who killed Carmen Mesta

Bold and the Beautiful submitted the same episodes for writing as in the outstanding Drama category. (Thus you can read more on that below.) I do want to comment that the acting in this episode in outstanding. It features multiple Emmy winner Susan Flannery’s Stephanie taking on her mother, a surprisingly cold and mean Betty White. Great story, great drama. They may get their first Emmy!

Guiding Light again submits two Inside the Light episodes but not the same ones from the writing category. The first episode is heavy drama centered around Emmy-winner Tom Pelphrey’s Jonathan. Typical of ITL episodes it is fleshed out and well told story. The second episode is comedic and centers around popular couple of Dinah and Mallet. Through the two episodes they exhibit strong writing as well as strong acting. And without much overlap in the actors in the two episodes, one realizes that GL has the best cast in all of daytime. God, I hope they win!

One Life to Live submitted the Todd execution storyline. I remember when this first aired that it was very compelling and I still felt this in my second viewing (though I knew Todd would be saved). Of all the episodes submitted in this category, it is the best. The second episode centers around John McBain’s funeral. After an execution episode, another eppy centering around death seems a bit much. In addition, the John McBain character is fairly new to daytime, so his funeral may not resonate with non-viewers. Overall I would say that the episodes have great writing, but the acting is not as strong as GL.

Young and the Restless also has the same picks for their writing nomination. There is a saying “if it ain’t on the page, it ain’t on the stage” and the cast and crew of YR will NOT be on the stage to collect an emmy with these two subpar episodes.

I think this is anyone but YRs to win. I can’t decide even who I would choose, let alone who the entire academy might choose.

Who will win: Anyone but YR *smile*

Who should win: Guiding Light

I would vote for: Bold and the Beautiful or Guiding Light*

Don't count out: One Life to Live has lots of buzz

*I know this sounds fickle. I have gone back and forth. I wonder if my vote for GL is out of loyalty, as it is the soap I have watched the longest. Then again, Bold and the Beautiful is one my current favorites. Okay, if I had to vote it would be……………….Guiding Light.

2006 Daytime Emmys: Writing for Drama Series

2007-06-11T15:55:00.000-07:00

Nominees and episodes

Bold and the Beautiful
Stephanie confronting her mother
More Steph confronting her mother

General Hospital
Lulu's abortion
Thanksgiving

Guiding Light
ITL: Reva deals with cancer and Josh moves Cross Creek
ITL: Dinah (her and Mallet get back together)

Young and the Restless
Ice storm hits Genoa City
Speculation episode on who killed Carmen Mesta

The Bold and the Beautiful has two solid back-to-back episodes. The story is intense as a 60-something female confronts her elderly mother about the father’s past abuse and why she stood on the sidelines without The dialogue is solid with the exception of Hunter Tylo’s Taylor who is always written to speak in psychiatric clichés and when she explains what is happening to Stephanie’s children it is no different.

General Hospital is nominated for writing but, oddly, not for Outstanding Drama. The first episode addresses many hot topics including abortion and drug use. It also re-introduces Genie Francis’ Laura back to the screen. The second episode is typical holiday drivel that soaps like to offer. The best part is Laura saying goodbye to her children.

Guiding Light makes a good decision by submitting two Inside the Light episodes. These “Wednesday” episodes allow the writers to flush out story and character more than a regular episode. The episodes they pick also show drama and humor which will add to their vote tally.

Young and the Restless should win an award for worst episode picking ability. They were great most of the year and I can't believe they think these two episodes highlight their superiority. The Ice Storm sniffs of a General Hospital-style disaster as emmy bait maneuver. Add to it that it wasn’t suspenseful and it truly was a disaster (not to mention that fellow CBS soap ATWT had done an ice storm story several weeks earlier). The “Who Killed Carmen Mesta” episode might attract votes for those who do not ordinarily watch the show. It has good writing and works as a “stand alone”, but was a centerpiece of an awful murder mystery where no cared who killed Carmen.

Who will win: Bold and the Beautiful

Who should win: Guiding Light

I would vote for: Guiding Light

Don't count out: General Hospital

2006 Daytime Emmys: Leading Female

2007-06-11T05:54:00.000-07:00

Nominees and episodes

Crystal Chappel, GL
Olivia tells Buzz about her rape
ITL: Olivia and Jeffrey confront their mutual past

Jeanne Cooper, YR
Katherine fires Jack; says goodbye to MacKenzie
Katherine says goodbye to John on his deathbed

Michelle Stafford, YR
Phyllis with Nick; later fighting with Jack, then Sharon
Phyllis and Jack in the elevator during ice storm

Maura West, ATWT
Jack and Carly breakup
Carly's hopes for a reunion are dashed

Kim Zimmer, GL
Reva rejects going to cancer support group
Jonathan donates bone marrow to Reva

Crystal Chappel's tape makes me realize why I love her character "Olivia" so much. These episodes are packed with emotions and make her a frontrunner.

Jeanne Cooper is a supporting actress and not a lead. She should not be in this category!!! (Though there is some buzz about how she is an "overdue veteran"—bah!)

Michelle Stafford is once again victim of bad tape selection. Her first episode is a bad pick. The elevator was not good story, but shows great acting by Stafford.

Maura West just WOWS 'em with this episode. Her only issue might be that the two tapes are very similar. However, one's heart breaks along with Carly when she is there in her wedding dress and her hoped for reunion does not come to fruition. And it is her anger after that heartbreak that make you applaud this tape.

Kim Zimmer had a great year with the Reva cancer storyline. However, her reel is not as good as Chappel's or West's reels, though she is awfully close. She also has her statement last year of taking herself out of the running (and obviously NOT doing that) which might work against her with voters.

This category is hard to pick a winner. I really think West is best, but wonder how much that is jaded by my love of "Carly" and her portrayer. Both West and Chappel play that "heartbreak" card which I think always works with Emmy voters. If they can start to feel your pain and empathize with your character, they think you have what it takes.
Another issue is the Inside the Light factor. These Guiding Light episodes give an actor the opportunity to really flesh out a character, their emotions as well as their story, in one episode. I initially thought their length would work against the nominees. However, ITL makes for better storyline and will probably pay off for one or two actors come Friday.

Who will win: Crystal Chappel

Who should win: West or Chappel

I would vote for: Maura West

Don't count out: Kim Zimmer

2006 Daytime Emmys: Leading Male

2007-06-11T05:51:00.000-07:00

Nominees and episodes:

Peter Bergman, YR
Jack finds out about Nick/Phyllis affair
Jack talks to John on his dad's deathbed

Anthony Geary, GH
Luke talks to Lulu after they visit Laura
Laura comes out of her catatonic state

Ricky Paul Goldin, GL
Aftermath of Gus' discovery of Harley/Mallet
ITL: Gus tries to kick his drug habit

Christian LeBlanc, YR
Confronts Gloria about tainting face cream
At Lauren's memorial service, Lauren shows up

Michael Park, ATWT
Jack and Carly breakup
Carly's hopes for a reunion are dashed

Peter Bergman has two solid episodes. We see some of the stuff that made this a great year for Peter Bergman, though I would like to have seen an episode where Jack was the bad guy. (Thank God he didn't pick those silly elevator episodes!) He is firmly in second place on my ballot.

Anthony Geary is a great actor. He manages to convey much without words. I just don't think it is strong enough to beat RPG's drug addiction episode.

Ricky Paul Goldin has a good first episode. However, it is his second episode that just knocks it out of the park. RPG is the one to beat.

Christian LeBlanc's first episode is not a good pick. His second episode is wonderful and I am glad I got to see it again. I just don’t think it is award worthy.

Michael Park submitted the same episodes as Maura West in the Female Lead category. I love the roller coaster ride that is "Jack and Carly" and these episodes take you on that ride. Michael Park could definitely be the dark horse here.

Coming into this, I thought Peter Bergman was a shoo-in. He had a wonderful year, where I went from hating Jack, to sympathizing with Jack, to loving Jack—sometime within one episode. However, it's supposed to be "about the tapes" and RPG will be hard to beat with his Inside the Light episode where he tries to detox.

Who will win: Ricky Paul Goldin

Who should win: Ricky Paul Goldin

I would vote for: Ricky Paul Goldin

Don't count out: Peter Bergman

2006 Daytime Emmys: Supporting Female

2007-06-11T05:48:00.000-07:00

Nominees and episodes

Genie Francis, GH
Luke comes clean about Laura's temporary recovery
Laura celebrates holidays with family, says goodbye

Renee Goldsberry, OLTL
Evangaline learns about John's death
Evangaline and Cristian consumate their relationship

Rebecca Herbst, GH
Elizabeth walks out on Lucky
Elizabeth and Jason's comforting leads to sex

Lesli Kay, BB
Felicia talks about cancer before parent's wedding
Felicia cuts off her hair; returns from the dead

Gina Tognoni, GL
Mallet leaves dinner party to rescue Harley
Distraught over Mallet, Dinah dances on the bar at company

Heather Tom, OLTL
Kevin and Kelly breakup; rips ring off finger
Kelly realizes she is pregnant with Duke's child

Oh gosh! This category is always so hard.

Genie Francis was only on for a few weeks, so I came into this with a negative feeling towards her nominations. However, her episodes are wonderful and she is the definitive frontrunner. Her realization that her recovery is only temporary is just heart breaking. She then shows a range of emotions from lost and confused to sadly saying goodbye to her children.

Renee Goldsberry has completely unbalanced episodes. The first episode is great as we see her go from disbelief to mourning over John's death. The second episode, while a highlight for fans of Evangaline and Cris, love scenes do not make stellar acting.

Rebecca Herbst has some okay stuff. However, my reel was in opposite order of how they actually aired and from what I understand, the way she submitted. So, it is a bit confusing for her to be pregnant in one eppy then in the next eppy she is drinking and making that baby.

Leslie Kay's submissions had emmy buzz when they first aired. However, that was almost a year and a half ago and things have changed. She is giving Genie Francis a run for her money, and my vote would go to Kay. More because she is a permanent cast member and not a "guest star". (They really need a new category.)

Gina Tognoni shows both humor and outrage. I think she could have picked better episodes and possibly repeated. However, I won't completely count her out.

Heather Tom has a good first tape and it is probably the episode that will win her scene partner, Dan Guathier, an emmy. I am just not sure it works for her. The second episode centers more on her character, however she doesn't garner sympathy or show a range of emotion.

Who will win: Genie Francis

Who should win: Lesli Kay or Genie Francis (both stellar)

I would vote for: Lesli Kay

Don't count out: Gina Tognoni

2006 Daytime Emmys: Supporting Male

2007-06-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

Nominees and Episodes:

Trent Dawson, ATWT
Henry confronts Emily about Dusty
Henry confronts Louis about raping Maddie

Dan Gauthier, OLTL
Kevin and Kelly breakup; rips ring off finger
Kevin/Kelly discuss relationship and their big fight

Ric Hearst, GH
Sick in the hospital, wonders about his mother's love
Rick and Alexis argue about infidelity with her daughter

Greg Rikaart, YR
Tells Mac how much she has meant before she leaves
Confronts dad's body in the morgue

Kristoff St. John, YR
Neil finds out about Dru/Malcolm night together long ago
Neil realizes that, subsequently, Lily is not bio daughter

Trent's first episode shows some of the humor for which he is best known, the second shows a dramatic side. I really, really would be thrilled if Trent Dawson wins. However, this is probably not his year when looking at the competition.

Dan Gauthier knocks it out of the park with both episodes. I can't imagine that he won't win.

Ric Hearst is good and has some intense stuff—could be a surprise winner.

Greg Rikaart has an okay first episode but a great second episode. I guess if you have some inconsistencies, make sure you leave them loving you with a spectacular second episode. Don't count him out.

Kristoff St. John has some meaty material that really plays into the history of Young and the Restless. He is my sentimental favorite just because of the storyline. In his performance he makes you tear up as he is hit with the reality that his family isn't quite what he always thought it was.

Who will win: Gauthier

Who should win: Gauthier

I would vote for: Gauthier or Rikaart (sorry Trent!)

2006 Daytime Emmys: Younger Female

2007-06-10T13:37:00.000-07:00

Nominees and Episodes

Julie Berman, GH
Lulu contemplates an abortion
Lulu confronts Luke about Laura's temporary recovery

Alexadra Chando, ATWT
Maddie admits to Henry about being raped by Louis
Casey tries to convince Maddie to go to memorial service

Stephanie Gatschett, GL
ITL: Cassie locks Tammy in the morgue with Sandy's body
Tammy and Jon breakup so he can raise his daughter

Jennifer Landon, ATWT
Gwen confronts Will about his one night stand with Jade
Gwen and her alcoholic mother, Iris

Leven Ramblin, AMC
Lily finds out Jonathan lied about his condition
Lily laments to Erica/Jack about Jonathan's lies

Julie Berman: Before viewing the episodes I truly thought Julie Berman would run away with this, as she had so much buzz around her episodes. Her two episodes are good, but she kind of fades into the background when in the scene with Genie Francis and Anthony Geary.

Alexandra Chando has a great first episode, but her second episode is a bad pick. She said she was going for something lighter and different, which is a good approach to show range. However, this particular episode doesn't do it. It's too bad she doesn't have some of those daydream episodes from when she first came onto the show.

Stephanie Gatschett's tapes brought back bad memories. When her first episode originally aired, I remember thinking that her mother should be locked up forever. I mean, who locks their kid in the morgue with a corpse on purpose!!!! While the Inside the Light episodes work for other actors this year, it almost works against Gatschett in this first episode. The second episode is very good, but voters might be a little tired of her after the ITL episode.

Jennifer Landon rocks it in her episodes! She could also go back-to-back and will give Berman a run for her money.

Ramblin is great, but the storyline she submits is not great. If voters can overlook that, she could be a surprise winner on Friday.

Who will win: Berman

Who should win: Landon or Berman

I would vote for: Landon

2006 Daytime Emmys: Younger Male

2007-06-10T13:35:00.000-07:00

This is a fun category that includes Passions' (well NBC's for that matter) lone nominee.

Nominees and Episodes

Van Hansis, ATWT
Holden and Luke talk about Luke's behavior
Luke and Damian have it out over family legacy/gayness

Bryton McClure, YR
Devon says goodbye to birth mother
Devon confront Carmen about Dru

Tom Pelphrey, GL
Jonathan and Reva at the bridge
Jonathan finds out Reva has not drove off bridge

Jesse Soffer, ATWT
Gwen confronts Will about his one night stand with Jade
Will begs for forgiveness from Gwen

James Stevenson, PS
Jared at job interview; learns Theresa's identity
Jared & Ethan get into argument

Van Hansis is very good and shows some depth including much anger is his argument with Damian.

Bryton could very well win. He is outstanding when I focus on him on these reels. However, when I watch the show he just an "also there" and doesn't pop out. Of course, this could say more about his character than the actor playing that role.

Tom Pelphrey is outstanding in both episodes. The only thing that might keep him from back-to-back Emmy's is that he cries in both episodes.

Jesse Soffer is just wonderful. My only concern is that Jennifer Landon is just "more wonderfuller" that she might outshine him. This could be his year.

James Stevenson has two good episodes and shows a lot of emotions. Unfortunately, he has silly Passions' writing to act with and that will only count against him.

Who will win: Van Hansis

Who should win: Pelphrey

I would vote for: Soffer

2006 Daytime Emmys: Non-soap Categories

2007-06-10T13:29:00.000-07:00

Wow! The big day is Friday! I can hardly wait.

I have been procrastinating but time to do those Emmy picks.

I'll start with some non-soap categories (below) and then do individual posts for each daytime drama category.

And, without further ado:

Game Show Host

Nominees and episodes

Ben Bailey, Cash Cab
Brother and Sister who double their money

Bob Barker, TPIR
1st episode of 35th season

Pat Sajak, Wheel
on location in Texas

Alex Trebek, Jeopardy!
Doug Savant, Jane Kazmarek,

Meredith Viera, Millionaire
Whassupp! episode

I love cash cab, so I won't mind them winning. However, there is nothing spectacular on their tape, Wheel's or Jeopardy's.

This is a Viera vs Barker race and I am pulling for Barker just because his last episode airs on the same day as the telecast.

Who will win: Toss-up between Barker and Viera

Who should win: Barker

I would vote for: Barker

Talk Show Host

Nominees and episodes

Tyra Banks
Guest: Janet Jackson, visit to LA school

Ellen DeGeneres
Guests: Simon Cowell, James Blunt, music prodigy

Phil McGraw
Dr. Phil confronts man who molested own daughter

Rachel Ray
Sick girl gets to meet her idol, Jessica Simpson

Soap Talk
Guests: Peter Bergman, wives of Soap Hunks

The View
Guests: James Brolin, Jeffrey Carlson (AMC)

Tyra Banks is surprisingly good in her episode.
Ellen's episode is her doing what she does best.
Dr. Phil is his usual aggressive self in a intense episode where a man is allegedly molesting his 3-year old daughter. It is the best of all the episodes, but the subject matter may turn of some voters.
Rachel Ray's episode is good and her guests never overshadow her.
Soap Talk is good with the Peter Bergman, but is just crap with the wives segment. Why are they nominated.
The View could have picked 50 better episodes and ruined their chances with a bad pick. However, the publicity the show has garnered—and that it has truly improved in the past year—might make it some sort of dark horse.

What this category comes down to is this a "light and breezy" category (e.g. Ellen, Soap Talk) or more hard hitting (Dr. Phil). I would like to think that the academy think it is the former and thus this is really between Ellen and Tyra.

Morning Show

Nominees and episodes

Good Morning America

in-depth North Korea story

Live with Regis & Kelly

Ashton Kutcher, Barenaked Ladies, and World Records

The Today Show
Pres Clinton, surgical mistakes, and break dancing

Good Morning America has a good overall episode. They are very in-depth with the North Korea coverage and also include the new trend into walk-in medical services at shopping centers and department stores.
Live with Regis & Kelly just seems to be in the wrong category. The show always jokes about how they always lose "Talk Show", so maybe they took themselves out of that and into this new category hoping for a win. But, they just look silly when compared with the other two nominees.
The Today Show is good with the Bill Clinton interview but not great. The other stuff runs along the same lines. And, they only submitted an episode that was 26 minutes of their usual 3-4 hour broadcast. It seems if they were going to edit and this was the best they have, they don't have much compared to GMA.

This is a first time for this category and will define itself with how it awards this new Emmy. Much like the Talk Show category, it needs to determine if it is more "talk show"-ish or more news. It really should be a race between GMA and Today, with GMA the favorite. However, Today could garner votes just on popularity and reputation.

Who will win: Good Morning America

Who should win: Good Morning America

I would vote for: Good Morning America

BB: A Gut Feeling about this In-Vitro Thing PART II

2007-05-21T09:07:00.000-07:00

My sister called a while back and said she thought the eggs were probably Brooke's. After the lab assistants cut-off conversation with Bridget the other day, I beginning to think my sister's suspicions were true.

Questions if that is the case:
1) Is Bridget doing this on purpose? If not, I really don't get her overjoyous reactions to her ex-husband having a baby with Taylor.

2) What are the legal ramifications? Say Brooke was just storing her eggs for later use, they get labeled as Marrone (since the hospital said they still had her under that name) and seeing the name they are used for Taylor in-vitro procedure.
Does Brooke have legal claim on the child?
I know there is precedence. Didn't some real-life couple have this issue recently? I will have to look up what the decision was, but I think it included a full refund of $$s and paying for the child's school. However, I am not sure if the biological father/couple had any recourse over claiming what is their biological child.

3) Does this mean Brooke and Ridge are not going to get back together? (Okay, that's just me being selfish.)

YR: Newman Jet Crashes

2007-05-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

Wow!
All I can say is "Wow!"

What a super episode of Y&R today as everyone found out about the Newman's plane crash.

ATWT: Doing the Happy Dance

2007-05-09T15:34:00.000-07:00

Carly's back! Carly's back! Carly's back.

Yippee, yippee, yipee!!

BB: A Gut Feeling about this In-Vitro Thing

2007-04-30T10:39:00.000-07:00

First, how weird is it that Bridget is the doctor for Nick and Taylor's attempt to have a child? She isn't even an OB-GYN, let alone a fertility specialist.

But, wouldn't it be a weird twist if Bridget was the secret egg donor for the baby? She, too, has wanted to give Nick a child so it is in the realm of possibility.

I have a gut feeling this is where we are going. IF not, it should be as it would really add a twist to the "women in love with Nick" story.

Passions saved by DirecTV

2007-04-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

According to TV Guide, DirecTV will include new, original episodes of Passions on its original programming channel (Channel 101 for my fellow DirecTVers).
This is good news not only for Passions fans but for all soap fans. No longer should we worry about our soaps' demise, if cable/satellite outlets are willing to pickup the production.

ATWT: Hank and Skank

2007-04-11T15:03:00.000-07:00

If I post about Katie, I guess I should post about Henry. I love Henry (hey, everybody loves Henry). I am happy that Henry's portrayer, Trent Dawson, is getting the well-deserved air time. And I may be in the minority, but I hate the Henry and Vienna pairing.

It seems so contrived. It was like "instant couple, just add sex". And, it seems to be only about sex with these two. When Vienna proposed to Henry, the reasoning behind her wanting marriage was all based on Henry's skills in the bedroom. And, she isn't shy about claiming how many men she had to compare Henry to come to this conclusion.

There is no romance. There wasn't any drama (at least not until Katie and Brad poked into it). What makes me want to invest in this couple?

I want Henry with a nice girl. Maybe some long-lost Snyder cousin. Someone who....well, maybe the writers can hire me and I can give them the whole details on what would make a good Henry relationship and storyline.

ATWT: K-K-K-Katie flirting with T-T-T-Trouble

2007-04-11T14:54:00.000-07:00

It wasn't that long ago, that Katie was reviled by ATWT viewers for her shabby treatment of Henry. I mean, everyone loves Henry.

Now, Terri Colombino's Katie is being thrust into another storyline that will not set well with fans--the blossoming romance between her and Jack. There is a lot of things you can do on ATWT, but mess with Carly/Jack is not one of them. I remember (with much sorrow) the hate mail, including death threats, that were heaped upon Sarah Brown's when Julia went after an amnesiac Jack. I hope that Ms. Colombino is not subjected to the same.

That said, Katie stay away from Jack! Of course, the viewer knows that Carly's portrayer, Maura West, was away on maternity leave and would return. The characters of Jack and Katie do not know what we know.

34th Daytime Emmys: Writing

2007-03-14T09:37:00.000-07:00

Outstanding Drama Series Writing Team

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL * CBS
BRADLEY BELL, HEAD WRITER

GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC
ROBERT GUZA, JR., HEAD WRITER
CHARLES PRATT, JR., HEAD WRITER

GUIDING LIGHT * CBS
DAVID KREIZMAN, HEAD WRITER
DONNA SWAJESKI, CO-HEAD WRITER

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS
LYNN MARIE LATHAM, HEAD WRITER
KAY ALDEN, HEAD WRITER
JOHN F. SMITH, HEAD WRITER
SCOTT HAMNER, CO-HEAD WRITER

About what you would expect in this category. Perennial nominee As the World Turns is left out. Makes you wonder if heads (or headwriters) will roll with the lack of nominations here and in the Series category. Many people think OLTL will win in Series. However, they are not in the writing category. Hmmm…perhaps the same episodes were not submitted during the pre-nomination process.

34th Daytime Emmys: Younger Male Lead

2007-03-14T09:33:00.000-07:00

Outstanding Younger Actor In A Drama Series

VAN HANSIS, AS LUKE SNYDER AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
JESSE SOFFER, AS WILL MUNSON AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
TOM PELPHREY, AS JONATHAN RANDALL GUIDING LIGHT * CBS
JAMES STEVENSON, AS JARED CASEY PASSIONS * NBC
BRYTON MCCLURE, AS DEVON HAMILTON THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS

Wow! What a category! Van Hansis has great stuff from his coming out storyline. Jesse Soffer and Tom Pelphrey are always great. I admittedly am not familiar with lone NBC nominee James Stevenson. Bryton McClure had his meningitis/deaf storyline that he made believable as well as his involvement in the Carmen Mesta murder whodoneit.

34th Daytime Emmys: Younger Female Lead

2007-03-14T09:32:00.000-07:00

Outstanding Younger Actress In A Drama Series

LEVEN RAMBIN, AS LILY MONTGOMERY ALL MY CHILDREN * ABC
JENNIFER LANDON, AS GWEN MUNSON AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
ALEXANDRA CHANDO, AS MADDIE COLEMAN AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
JULIE BERMAN, AS LULU SPENCER GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC
STEPHANIE GATSCHET, AS TAMMY WINSLOW GUIDING LIGHT * CBS

Leven Ramblin had a great year last year and its hard to believe she is still a teenager. Most of the buzz this year has been around Julie Berman's Lulu. However, I wouldn't count out any of the young ladies from CBS.

34th Daytime Emmys: Supporting Actor Nominees

2007-03-14T09:30:00.000-07:00

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series

TRENT DAWSON, AS HENRY COLEMAN AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
RICK HEARST, AS RIC LANSING GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC
DAN GAUTHIER, AS KEVIN BUCHANAN ONE LIFE TO LIVE * ABC
GREG RIKAART, AS KEVIN FISHER THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS
KRISTOFF ST. JOHN, AS NEIL WINTERS THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS

Yippe for Trent Dawson. I love him! That said, I can't think of any outstanding stories for any of these actors. I guess that is the true sign of "supporting". However, I think Rikaart and Hearst might be seen as front runners.

34th Daytime Emmys: Supporting Actress Nominations

2007-03-14T09:29:00.000-07:00

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series

LESLI KAY, AS FELICIA FORRESTER THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL * CBS
GENIE FRANCIS, AS LAURA SPENCER GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC
REBECCA HERBST, AS ELIZABETH WEBBER GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC
GINA TOGNONI, AS DINAH MARLER GUIDING LIGHT * CBS
RENEE ELISE GOLDSBERRY, AS EVANGELINE WILLIAMSON ONE LIFE TO LIVE * ABC
HEATHER TOM, AS KELLY CRAMER ONE LIFE TO LIVE * ABC

This is always a killer category—hard to get in and hard to pick who wins. At the beginning of the year, everyone was lauding Leslie Kay's cancer storyline. All the other nominees are very strong. Genie Francis is a surprise nominee just because she was only on for two weeks. Perhaps a Guest Starring category, such as the Primetime Emmys have, should be instituted for actors like Francis and Betty White.

34th Daytime Emmys: Lead Actor Nominees

2007-03-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series

MICHAEL PARK, AS JACK SNYDER AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
ANTHONY GEARY, AS LUKE SPENCER GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC
RICKY PAULL GOLDIN, AS GUS AITORO GUIDING LIGHT * CBS
PETER BERGMAN, AS JACK ABBOTT THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS
CHRISTIAN LEBLANC, AS MICHAEL BALDWIN THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS

Yeah, Michael Park!
No surprise with Anthony Geary's inclusion. He is the standard bearer in this category. Peter Bergman had a great year and should be the obvious winner. However, I can think of strong episodes for both Park and Goldin who could be the surprise winner. Christian LeBlanc is always good and will probably always be in this category.

34th Daytime Emmys: Lead Actress Nominations

2007-03-14T09:23:00.000-07:00

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series

MAURA WEST, AS CARLY SNYDER AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS
CRYSTAL CHAPPELL, AS OLIVIA SPENCER GUIDING LIGHT * CBS
KIM ZIMMER, AS REVA SHAYNE LEWIS GUIDING LIGHT * CBS
JEANNE COOPER, AS KATHERINE CHANCELLOR THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS
MICHELLE STAFFORD, AS PHYLLIS SUMMERS NEWMAN THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS

I barely heard the other nominations since I was jumping and shouting for joy over Maura's nominations. Although now I can barely hear over the roar that CBS locked all nominations in this category. Notable oversights are Nancy Lee Grahn (GH) and Susan Flannery (BB).
My theory on the latter is that she intentionally didn't submit well (because she has great material there in December) in hopes that would bring Kathy Kelley Lang into the fold. Just a theory.
How is Jeanne Cooper in this category? I am not doubting her acting skills, just her "lead" placement.
My hopes are for Maura West. But, too early to predict until you see the submitted episodes.

34th Daytime Emmys: Outstanding Series nominees

2007-03-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

Outstanding Series—Daytime Drama

Bold and the Beautiful
Guiding Light
One Life to Live
Young and the Restless

Bold and the Beautiful had a usual year, which comparatively is great by other show standards. They ended the year on a high with an outstanding storyline regarding childhood abuse.
Oh please, please, please let Guiding Light win. It will be the cherry on the top of their 70th anniversary.
One Life to Live had some great storylines this year. I could have left the Tess/Jess crap, but the Todd execution storyline was compelling. It was the type of drama that makes you tune back in everyday.
Young and the Restless is wonderful. They are the best at intertwining all of their storylines. However, that hardly matters when you just submit two episodes for consideration.

Notable exclusions are last year's winner, General Hospital, as well as perennial nominee As the World Turns. However, the latter has been lacking in great storyline so not really surprising (just notable).

Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced

2007-03-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

Here is the list of acting and show categories. I will have comments and other categories later today. (Well, one comment--yeah Ladies of CBS for sweeping the Leading Actress category!)

OutstandingDaytime Drama
Bold and the Beautiful
Guiding Light
One Life to Life
Young and the Restless

Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS MAURA WEST, AS CARLY SNYDER
GUIDING LIGHT * CBS CRYSTAL CHAPPELL, AS OLIVIA SPENCER
GUIDING LIGHT * CBS KIM ZIMMER, AS REVA SHAYNE LEWIS
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS JEANNE COOPER, AS KATHERINE CHANCELLOR
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS MICHELLE STAFFORD, AS PHYLLIS SUMMERS NEWMAN

Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS MICHAEL PARK, AS JACK SNYDER
GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC ANTHONY GEARY, AS LUKE SPENCER
GUIDING LIGHT * CBS RICKY PAULL GOLDIN, AS GUS AITORO
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS PETER BERGMAN, AS JACK ABBOTT
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS CHRISTIAN LEBLANC, AS MICHAEL BALDWIN

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL * CBS LESLI KAY, AS FELICIA FORRESTER
GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC GENIE FRANCIS, AS LAURA SPENCER
GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC REBECCA HERBST, AS ELIZABETH WEBBER
GUIDING LIGHT * CBS GINA TOGNONI, AS DINAH MARLER
ONE LIFE TO LIVE * ABC RENEE ELISE GOLDSBERRY, AS EVANGELINE WILLIAMSON
ONE LIFE TO LIVE * ABC HEATHER TOM, AS KELLY CRAMER

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS TRENT DAWSON, AS HENRY COLEMAN
GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC RICK HEARST, AS RIC LANSING
ONE LIFE TO LIVE * ABC DAN GAUTHIER, AS KEVIN BUCHANAN
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS GREG RIKAART, AS KEVIN FISHER
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS KRISTOFF ST. JOHN, AS NEIL WINTERS

Outstanding Younger Actress In A Drama Series
ALL MY CHILDREN * ABC LEVEN RAMBIN, AS LILY MONTGOMERY
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS JENNIFER LANDON, AS GWEN MUNSON
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS ALEXANDRA CHANDO, AS MADDIE COLEMAN
GENERAL HOSPITAL * ABC JULIE BERMAN, AS LULU SPENCER
GUIDING LIGHT * CBS STEPHANIE GATSCHET, AS TAMMY WINSLOW

Outstanding Younger Actor In A Drama Series
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS VAN HANSIS, AS LUKE SNYDER
AS THE WORLD TURNS * CBS JESSE SOFFER, AS WILL MUNSON
GUIDING LIGHT * CBS TOM PELPHREY, AS JONATHAN RANDALL
PASSIONS * NBCJ AMES STEVENSON, AS JARED CASEY
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS * CBS BRYTON MCCLURE, AS DEVON HAMILTON

ATWT: Craig--out with the new, in with the old

2007-03-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

I really didn't care for Jeffrey Meek's portrayal of Craig when he first appeared. It seemed too James Stenbeck-ish for my taste. Now, that could probably be attributed to the writing. And, he has grown on me with his pursuit of Meg.

Well, I guess CBS decided to get rid of that "growth" for me and have fired Jeffrey Meek and replaced him with original Craig portrayer, Scott Bryce.

Maybe next year they can bring back Hunt Block and we can have a Mongtomery-go-round. Or, is it a Craigousel

ATWT: I'm not liking Henry and Vienna

2007-03-12T15:31:00.000-07:00

I know I am in the minority, but I am not liking the Henry and Vienna storyline. Henry, once again, is paired up with a self-centered diva-wannabe. I guess that does give them something in common since Henry tends to make the woman the center of his world.
Why can't they pair Henry up with a nice girl? Perhaps some long-lost Snyder cousin. Or Meg. Anyone but Katie and her burnette twin, Vienna.

P.S. The only good thing about this is mucho airtime for Trent Dawson.

BB: Where's Harry?

2007-03-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

Harry was brought onto the show to create a Harry/Phoebe/Shane triangle. Of course, this was thrown out the window for the hideous Rick/Phoebe storyline.
However, while Shane's leaving has been explained, nothing has been said about Harry. He was living on Nick's boat--which last week was run over by a tanker when Taylor and Nick went for a nighttime cruise.
Yet, we haven't seen Nick contact him to say what happened to the belongings he kept on the boat. And, isn't it a little rude to just take off with someone's "home" for the evening? And to demolish it while you are out?

Of course, there is room for Harry at Massimo's house.

YR: Why would Jack even want to be a State Senator?

2007-03-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

Let's see. Jack has been the CEO of several large international corporations. Yet, he is willing to give this up for the less-than-powerful position of state senator. US Senator I could see. Governor, would be logical. State senator makes no sense!

SoapNet: Fantasy Soap League

2007-03-12T14:38:00.000-07:00

Maybe this is old news, but I just came across this today. SoapNet is having a Fantasy Soap Game that is modeled after fantasy sports leagues.
I am signing up today!
Information is available at their website.

No CBS stories on Thursday and Friday

2007-03-11T14:12:00.000-07:00

CBS will pre-empt its entire daytime lineup this Thursday and Friday (3/15 and 3/16) for NCAA basketball coverage.

A lot of soap fans complain about this, but not the Goddess! I love college hoops and tourney time!

ATWT: That little girl is gonna eat that big steak?

2007-03-11T14:08:00.000-07:00

I had to laugh on Thursdays episode of ATWT. Gwen, trying to kill time until Will returns from Washington and to keep her mind of being haunted by the brother-in-law she helped bury, decides to eat dinner. She comes back with this huge steak--it covered the whole plate! Is Gwen on Atkins?! :)

It was used later in the episode to make it appear blood was running off the plate and it still looked huge.

Since then, I have been craving a good piece of prime rib.

YR: The Young and the DaVinci

2007-02-25T14:33:00.000-08:00

Is this storyline finally over now that the treasure has been found? Or do we still have lose ends because Jenna is on the loose?

The Colleen in the burning building is a good tie to history. However, a portion may be too closely tied to recent history. It was just a year or two ago that we had the Cassie dies storyline where Daniel is assumed guilty because Cassie never wakes up enough to reveal the truth.

Best part of this story: Colleen asking for paper to leave a goodbye note to her family before she dies in a burning building. Wouldn't the paper burn, too?

Passions Cancelled

2007-01-31T17:56:00.000-08:00

During the TV critics tour of Los Angeles, NBC triumphantly announced that The Today Show would be going to 4 hours. The victim on this nonsense is Passions.

Now, I admit, I am no fan of Passions. I find it rather silly. I laugh each time Robyn is home from some offbeat school holiday and calls me to ask "Have you watched this Passions show, it is CRAZY?!" However, the show does great with the younger demographic. And, for the most part soap fans are loyal. This is why I have always said that NBC should stick with Passions because it could beat Y&R in the ratings in a decade or so. Alas, network executives have no patience.

Which leads to the question WHY? The Today Show is too long as it now stands. Do we really need one more hour of cooking segments, celebrity interviews and lame weather jokes?

And, not only does it speak to the little patience that network execs possess, it speaks volumes to what may possibly be the future of soaps.

Death doesn't become her

2007-01-31T17:40:00.000-08:00

Within a week's period of time, All My Children and Guiding Light killed off popular characters(Dixie and Tammy, respectively). No sooner was it announced that AMC was killling off the beloved Dixie, that fans started to speculate on how it would happen and how she could return.

On some boards, Tammy's death happened on the same day that fans speculated on how she could be "not really dead." In fact, more time has been spent posting about how these folks could return than on sadness that the character has died. Both lines seem to fall around some sort of "faked her death to protect and hide her from _____" (slayer, Alan Spaulding, or whomever you want to fill in the blank with on this).

I know the writers think this is great, that they can keep us on our toes by saying that "anyone can go at any moment". However...

What this really says: That the coming-back-from-the-dead thing has been so overdone, that we highly expect it. And expect it so much, that the death scenes and following mourning has little affect on the average fan.

You, too, could write a soap!

2007-01-31T17:35:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I was veggin' on the couch with a buddy catching up on a week's worth of YR stored on my DVR. They were at the scenes where Lauren finally sees Sheila (newly transformed via plastic surgery to be Phyllis's doppelganger). Paul and Michael are there and they are fretting like two little girls over what to do with the ill Sheila. They turn to Lauren for advice.

Right before she says it, I reply "Let the bitch die." My buddy was awed that I predicted the line, something I had done a couple of times. He thought maybe I could write a soap. My reply was that "oh no, this is just a sign that I watch a lot of soaps."

AMC: Dixie Dies!

2007-01-28T14:17:00.000-08:00

This is a spoiler. I hate spoilers. But, this particular one was hard to avoid if anyone does any soap-related surfing on the internet. I guess this explains why Cady hasn't posted on her witty and insightful blog since the beginning of the new year.

And, there is some controversy over this one. First, AMC does this big production of bringing back Cady McClain as Dixie. Then, just a bit over a year later they are killing off the character as an inadvertant victim of the serial killer. And, they are killing her in a way that doesn't seem possible to bring her back from the dead (more on that issue later--cuz I have some major thoughts on that).

I heard a rumor that she is headed to Guiding Light. I wonder what character she could play over there. Someone new? A recast? I'm really trying not to read the spoilers.

However, I would love, love, love (really, I would love it) if she came back as Rosanna Cabot on ATWT. Now that Craig is back (though not our beloved--and Cady's personal beloved--Hunt Block), it would be perfect timing. Maybe she could come back with Carly after Maura West's maternity leave. Maybe she could come back before then and, once again, play a motherly role to Carly's kids.

I will be thrilled if she is on either show and the CBS fans will welcome her with wide open arms.

ATWT: Registered vs Bearer Bonds

2007-01-28T14:09:00.000-08:00

I know. I am being picky.

However, ATWT has driven me nuts this week with their storyline about Casey stealing Will's registered bonds. When Barbara handed these securities over to Will, she cautioned him to be careful because they were "registered bonds" and can be redeemed by anyone. This wasn't just a one day error, but repeated throughout the week.

Putting on my stock broker's hat:

Registered bonds are just that--registed to the name of the bond holder. They can only be redeemed either by the registered holder or, if endorsed, to whomever they are endorsed.

Bearer bonds are more likely what Babs and the rest of the ATWT characters meant. These are not registered to any individual and are payable to the bearer or the person who is in possession of the bonds.

Again, just being picky but it is driving me nuts.

BB: We love you Sally Spectra

2007-01-23T18:26:00.000-08:00

Although I have known about this for more than a week, I just haven't been able to bring myself to post about the death of Darlene Conley (I'm actually getting a bit teary typing this now). This woman was the personification of the word gregarious. I loved her and loved her playing Sally's antics. I will always remember her outrageious scenes with Phyllis Diller. And who can forget Darlene as Rose Deville on The Young and the Restless.
CBS will air a special tribute to Darlene Conley at the end of this Friday's (1/26) episode of Bold and the Beautiful.

YR/BB: Lauren Crossover Observation

2007-01-20T08:49:00.000-08:00

On Y&R, Lauren is so down with agoraphobia-ladened post partum depression that she can barely leave her apartment, let alone the town of Genoa City. Yet, on Friday she crossed over to Bold and the Beautiful (set in Los Angeles) for the launch of Forrester Originals. Hmmm....

ATWT: From Go Henry to Oh Henry!

2007-01-19T13:37:00.001-08:00

Last Monday, I was rooting on Henry for finally giving Katie what she deserved. Well, it isn't even a week later (in real time—same day on the show, I think) and here is Henry forgiving Katie's transgressions. How can we so quickly go from Go Henry (Go Henry, It's your birthday) to Oh Henry (said with much disdain)?
I understand the point of Henry wanting his best friend back in his life, but what kind of friend is she and what will Henry think the next time she squashes him like a bug to get what she wants?

On a side note, that peach/orange shirt and tie that they have had Trent Dawson in looks really good on him and brings out some coloring for him. But even with that, I am a bit tired of seeing it (though it does make me realize it is the same day).

BB: Forrester Creations vs Forrester Originals

2007-01-19T13:36:00.000-08:00

I guess since Spectra Fashions has bitten the dust, they need this storyline to infuse some business competition into the story. However, I really don't understand what the Forrester family is so worried about with Nick owning Forrester Creations. A design company is only as good as its creative staff. If the entire creative staff is at the new company, what does Nick really have?
Though, this is building into a good YR-like corporate plot. I love how Nick vows to buy all the fashion boutiques that would carry the new company's clothing lines. Um…vertical monopolies were made illegal over 100 years ago. I know Nick is just a sailor masquerading as a business man, but this is taught in 5th grade social studies!

AMC: Serial Killer

2007-01-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

I guess in the world of soaps that the single murder mystery has gotten so blasé that we have moved along to the serial killer. This has been done on several shows in the last few years, with All My Children being the latest.
The one thing that most shows don't understand is that they are, for the most part, killing off people we don't care about or don't like. I know you can't kill off a bunch of key characters (unless your Days) without a fan revolt, but the storyline is uninteresting when we don't care who is doing the killing or who has been killed.

YR: Lujack!

2007-01-19T13:34:00.000-08:00

I know, wrong show.
I love that Vincent Irizarry is now appearing on YR. I hope that this isn't a short-term stint since he is being brought in to the Carmen Mesta murder storyline. However, if it is short-lived maybe we can have him back on GL as Nick/Lujack.

On a related note, since it was first brought up about Carmen's affair at her previous employer (and it was obvious that she was about to become the victim in a murder mystery), I thought that the murderer could have been either that previous lover (being played by Vincent I) or the scorned wife. Maybe I was on to something…

GL: Moving Right Along

2007-01-19T13:33:00.000-08:00

In a recent discussion with my sister, we both wondered how Jon and Tammy were to marry (as shown in promos that aired) when Jon had just left Lizzie and was still married to her. I guess that's the one good thing about Wednesdays on Guiding Light where they move story along so fast! This can only be beneficial. When some shows (e.g. ATWT has been on New Years Day for about 3 weeks) can spread out one day across a whole calendar month, these Wednesday episodes are refreshing.

BB: Nick and Taylor

2007-01-19T13:31:00.001-08:00

I am not sure if I could care less about this storyline. The one good thing that would come out of pairing these two would be that, for the first time on BB, I might actually fast-forward through part of the story. Wow! What will I do with that free time?

BB: Oh my Gosh! Oh my Gosh! Oh my Gosh!

2007-01-10T12:53:00.000-08:00

I almost fell out of my chair when toddler Hope revealed to toddler Alexandria that Taylor was the one who killed Alexandria's mother, Darla. I was hoping for this story to drag out until Alexandria was SORAS'd to a teen--something that could add to the teen girl/mother angst.
But alas, soaps move so fast now and there usually isn't much of a wait for "the big reveal."

Anyway, it was great and I can't wait to see the ramifications of this truth on the Forrester family.

ATWT: Don't Drink the Water

2007-01-10T12:50:00.000-08:00

Interesting developments with the contaminated well water at the Snyder farm. Though I could do without the ESPaul storyline (didn't we just have ESParker a few years back?), this little twist could get interesting.

Although Paul stopped Meg from drinking the water, Emily had a big glass to calm her nerves right before hand. And, of course, Emily has done Craig wrong. So, I see Emily having some type of poisioning episode that gets blamed on Craig.

On a side note, Paul's mother wanting him to use his ESPowers to find baby Johnny was just a priceless example of how bad a mother Babs truly can be.

ATWT: Go Henry, Go Henry, Go Henry!

2007-01-10T12:47:00.000-08:00

Well, a Goddess can get excited can't she? During 1/2 time of the BCS game (Go Gators, You're the Champions), I switched over to watch the ATWT I had recorded that day. Boy, am I glad someone came into the library and wanted to watch SpongeBob at 1 PM (when ATWT airs) so I got to see this at home!

Henry finally gave Katie what for and how much! On Thursday and Friday's episodes, Katie had been unsufferable, cruel and heartless with Henry. He seemed to finally reach his breaking point.

I had to rewind and watch the scene about 5 times and almost missed getting back to the start of the second half of the game.

BB: The big Name Short Run Revolving Door

2007-01-06T10:09:00.000-08:00

BB fans have been treated to some really great actors filling limited run roles on BB lately. Recently, we had the great Betty White as Stephanie's mother. While this actress is usually good to make me laugh (Sue Ann Nivens, anyone?), she really did well in this dramatic role.

In the past few weeks, we have been treated to Hal Linden as a person from Nick and Jacqueline's past. My mom was such a big Barney Miller fan and I mentioned at monthly Saturday breakfast that Linden had taken a part on the show. My sister had informed her of the Betty White deal a few weeks ago. Maybe we may get her to start watching at least one soap.

It's too bad the Daytime Emmys do not have a "guest star" award similar to the one they give away in the Primetime Emmys.

ATWT: Katie You Bitch!

2007-01-06T10:05:00.000-08:00

Oh, how I wanted to jump through the screen yesterday and throttle Katie. She has always been such a manipulator. However, when she tried to use Henry's unrequited love for Katie as leverage for him to be her partner in crime, I truly wanted to bitch-slap the gal.

Speaking of Henry, in this week he has almost showed us a new side of himself. I think we are starting to see him struggle to be good (or at least legal) and his "friends" seem to be breaking his resolve.

On a lighter note, Terri Columbino (the actress who portrays Katie) has been looking glowing lately. Might there be another Columbino Bambino on the way? Oh well, just a guess but she has been looking great.

BB: This explains a lot about Stephanie

2006-12-06T15:00:00.000-08:00

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?

2006-12-06T14:07:00.000-08:00

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

BB: Brooke's Choice

2006-10-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

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

2006-10-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

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!