Errol

“The Gates,” the first all-new daytime drama to receive a series order by a broadcast network since the 1999 launch of “Passions,” has been retitled, CBS announced on Thursday. Now titled “Beyond The Gates,” the drama series tells the story of the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty, according to a newly released synopsis for the series. Set in a leafy Maryland suburb just outside of Washington D.C., and in one the most affluent African American counties in the United States, “Beyond The Gates” is where viewers will find a posh gated community filled with winding tree-lined streets and luxurious mansions that the wealthy call home. Behind the pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. As for those living outside the gates, they are indeed watching closely. For every person who has “made it,” there are always those who have not. Follow the characters as they live, love, work, and play, all while trying to navigate life, some more gracefully than others. In addition to a name change, CBS has also announced that the soap has cast daytime alums Tamara Tunie (“As The World Turns,” “Days of our Lives”), Daphnee Duplaix (“One Life to Live,” “Passions”) and Karla Mosley (“The Bold and the Beautiful,” “Guiding Light”) in key roles, marking the first official casting announcements for the series. Tamara Tunie Emilio Madrid Best known to daytime fans for her portrayal as Jessica Griffin on “As The World Turns,” Tunie is set to play “Anita Dupree,” the family’s matriarch who at one time was a famous singer. Since leaving that life behind, Anita has worked hard for her success, while also raising two daughters with her now-retired senator husband. Underneath her glamorous and refined exterior, there is a fierceness she’s gained from her humble beginnings in Chicago. Duplaix and Mosley are set to play Anita’s daughters, Nicole and Dani, respectively. Karla Mosley, Daphnee Duplaix Courtesy (Getty Images/Karla Mosley) A high-achieving and competitive philanthropist and psychiatrist, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson (Duplaix) exudes warmth, empathy and compassion. Although her seemingly perfect life includes being married to a surgeon husband, not everything is as it appears on the outside… inside. As for Nicole’s sister, Dani (Mosley), she’s a former model turned “momager” who gave up her career for love. As the Dupree family’s wild child, the free-spirited, headstrong and uninhibited Dani dropped out of school to pursue a high-flying modeling career, and she has always marched to the beat of her own drum. Created by Michele Val Jean, who also serves as showrunner/executive producer, “Beyond The Gates” is produced by the CBS Studios/NAACP Venture, led by Sheila Ducksworth, in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble. Robert Guza Jr. (“General Hospital,” “Sunset Beach”), Julie Carruthers (“All My Children,” “Port Charles”), Leon Russell, Derrick Johnson, Kimberly Doebereiner and Anna Saalfeld are set as executive producers alongside Val Jean and Ducksworth. Production on the show is set to begin later this fall in Atlanta with CBS saying the show will premiere in early 2025. Previously the network announced the series would launch in January 2025. Note: The post Michele Val Jean’s CBS Daytime Drama ‘The Gates’ Retitled ‘Beyond The Gates’, Sets Early 2025 Launch appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

The wait is officially over! “General Hospital” fans can watch Nicholas Alexander Chavez (ex-Spencer Cassadine) in “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” now streaming on Netflix. Chronicling the case of the real-life brothers who were convicted in 1996 for the August 20, 1989 murders of their parents, José and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez, the second season of the Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan-led true-crime anthology series sees Chavez taking on the role of Lyle Menendez, the eldest brother, while newcomer Cooper Koch plays Erik Menendez. Playing their parents are Javier Bardem and Chloë Sevigny. Javier Bardem, Chloë Sevigny Netflix During the real-life trial, the prosecution argued the brothers killed their parents to inherit their family fortune. Meanwhile, Lyle and Erik claimed – and remain adamant to this day, as they serve life sentences without the possibility of parole – that their actions stemmed out of fear from a lifetime of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse at the hands of their parents. “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” Netflix Over nine episodes, viewers will watch as “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” dives into the historic case that took the world by storm, paved the way for audiences’ modern-day fascination with true crime, and in return asks the audiences: Who are the real monsters? Watch the final trailer for the series below. You can watch all the episodes of the series here. Note: The post ‘Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story’ Now Streaming On Netflix appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

So, it looks like a new acronym will be needed, but I ain't saying shit until I'm allowed.

Despite the carriage dispute between Disney and cable/satellite provider DirecTV (including U-verse) now over, the week of September 9-13, 2024 marked the second and final week of the disagreement, and, ironically, in the case of ABC, the network saw noticeable improvement for its daytime lineup compared to their week ago performances. Note: This time last year, Disney was facing a similar carriage dispute with Spectrum parent Charter Communications that ran from August 31 to September 11, 2023. The View For the week, “The View” (2.275 million; 1.6 HH rating) was the standout performer among Total Viewers, gaining +174,000 viewers week-to-week and up +73,000 viewers over its performance compared to the same week last year. The daytime talk show was also up +180,000 viewers over its performance during the same week in 2022 (2.275 million vs. 2.095 million), marking the show’s best performance for the second week into a television season since the second week of Season 25 back in 2021 (2.275 million vs. 2.284 million). Demographically, “The View” was up +0.04 week-to-week among both Women 18-49 (0.19 rating vs. 0.15 rating) and Women 25-54 (0.28 rating vs. 0.24 rating). That said, compared to its year ago performance, the talk show was down the most among all daytime broadcast shows in both key sales demographics. General Hospital “General Hospital” (1.832 million; 1.2 HH rating) was up +0.02 among Women 18-49 rating and up +0.04 among Women 25-54 rating compared to one week earlier. The daytime soap opera was virtually on par with its year ago performance among Women 18-49 (0.22 rating vs. 0.23 rating) but was down -0.07 among Women 25-54 (0.34 rating vs. 0.41 rating). Among Total Viewers, “General Hospital” was up +19,000 viewers over its week ago performance, but was down -150,000 viewers year-to-year. This marks the show’s 22nd consecutive week averaging less than two million viewers. The streak began during the week of April 15-19, 2024. GMA3: What You Need to Know / NBC News Daily “GMA3: What You Need to Know” (1.227 million; 0.8 HH rating) was up +79,000 viewers week-to-week, but down a steep -171,000 viewers over its performance during the same week last year, and continued to battle it out with “NBC News Daily” (1.158 million; 0.8 HH rating) among Women 18-49 (0.14 rating vs. 0.15 rating) and Women 25-54 (0.23 rating vs. 0.22 rating). Like “General Hospital,” “GMA3” was virtually on par with its year ago performance among Women 18-49 (0.14 rating vs 0.13 rating), but saw a noticeable drop year-to-year among Women 25-54 (0.23 rating vs. 0.27 rating). The Bold and the Beautiful / The Young and the Restless “The Bold and the Beautiful” (2.689 million; 1.8 HH rating) tied “The Young and the Restless” (2.989 million; 2.0 HH rating) among Women 18-49, each with a 0.27 rating. The half-hour soap jumped +0.03 week-to-week while the hour-long series was up +0.05. The two soaps were also up among Women 25-54, with “The Young and the Restless” improving the most week-to-week, up +0.05 for a 0.44 rating, while “The Bold and the Beautiful” was up a mere +0.01 for a 0.41 rating. Although “The Young and the Restless” averaged less than three million viewers for the ninth consecutive week, the soap marked its best performance among Total Viewers since the week of July 15-19, 2024, when it averaged 2.995 million. The last time soap averaged more than three million viewers was during the week of July 8-12, 2024. The Talk “The Talk” (1.231 million; 0.8 HH rating) premiered with its 15th (and final) season, down -77,000 viewers over its strike-delayed 14th season premiere last October (week of October 9-13, 2023) to mark the show’s lowest-rated season opener ever among Total viewers. In the demos, the talk show was virtually on par with its 14th season opener among both Women 18-49 (0.17 rating vs. 0.18 rating) and Women 25-54 (0.24 rating vs. 0.26 rating). Wrap-Up What follows is a breakdown of how daytime broadcast performed during the week of September 9-13, 2024 in Women 18-49, Women 25-54, Households and Total Viewers, including their performance during the comparable week last year. A closer look at how the daytime soaps performed, including their daily performance breakdown in the demos, will be posted shortly. Note: Only figures available to Soap Opera Network at press time are shown published below. The full ratings report, including individual show rankings, will return following the official start of the 2024-2025 broadcast television season (week of September 23-27, 2024). Week of September 9-13, 2024 Rankers Women 18-49 Rating Show / NetworkThis WeekLast Week2023The Price is Right 2 (CBS) – R0.380.360.39The Price is Right 1 (CBS) – R0.340.300.35The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)0.270.240.28The Young and the Restless (CBS)0.270.220.30TODAY 3rd Hour (NBC)0.260.280.32General Hospital (ABC)0.220.200.23TODAY with Hoda & Jenna (NBC)0.190.220.25The View (ABC)0.190.150.26The Talk (CBS)0.17N/A*N/A*NBC News Daily (NBC)0.150.130.16GMA3: What You Need to Know (ABC)0.140.130.15Source: Nielsen (Live+Same Day) – September 9-13, 2024 Women 25-54 Rating Show / NetworkThis WeekLast Week2023The Price is Right 2 (CBS) – R0.530.530.58The Price is Right 1 (CBS) – R0.490.460.50The Young and the Restless (CBS)0.440.390.50The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)0.410.400.45TODAY 3rd Hour (NBC)0.370.400.48General Hospital (ABC)0.340.300.41TODAY with Hoda & Jenna (NBC)0.290.300.38The View (ABC)0.280.240.40The Talk (CBS)0.24N/A*N/A*GMA3: What You Need to Know (ABC)0.230.190.27NBC News Daily (NBC)0.220.210.25Source: Nielsen (Live+Same Day) – September 9-13, 2024 Households Show / NetworkThis WeekLast Week2023The Young and the Restless (CBS)2.01.92.0The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)1.81.81.7The View (ABC)1.61.41.5General Hospital (ABC)1.21.21.3GMA3: What You Need to Know (ABC)0.80.80.9NBC News Daily (NBC)0.80.80.8The Talk (CBS)0.80.00.0Source: Nielsen (Live+Same Day) – September 9-13, 2024 Total Viewers (In Millions) Show / NetworkThis WeekLast Week2023The Young and the Restless (CBS)2,9892,8583,026The Bold and the Beautiful (CBS)2,6892,6962,586The View (ABC)2,2752,1012,202General Hospital (ABC)1,8321,8131,982The Talk (CBS)1,231N/A*N/A*GMA3: What You Need to Know (ABC)1,2271,1481,398NBC News Daily (NBC)1,1581,1791,132Source: Nielsen (Live+Same Day) – September 9-13, 2024 The numbers above are calculated using Live+Same Day viewing and DVR playback, defined as 3:00 a.m.-3:00 a.m., and are courtesy of Nielsen. Household ratings are the percentage of TV homes in the U.S. tuned into television, each representing 1,250,000 homes as of the 2023-2024 television season. Beginning August 31, 2020, national ratings include Out of Home (OOH) viewing. Previously, ratings did not include OOH viewing. Averages are based on regular telecasts. LEGEND R = RepeatS = SpecialP = PremiereNR = Not Rated / Not RankedN/A = Not Available* denotes further information Summary (Preemptions/Schedule Changes)* “The Talk” launched Season 15 during the week of September 9-13, 2024. Previously, the talk show aired amended repeats which were not reported by Nielsen and did not factor into the show’s weekly or Season 14 average. Speaking of Season 14, that season did not launch until the week of October 9-13, 2023 due to the dual Hollywood strikes. There were no other notable preemptions or schedule changes reported by Nielsen for the week of September 9-13, 2024. Note: The post Daytime Broadcast Ratings For The Week Of September 9-13, 2024 appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

As part of the WWE’s new, five-year domestic media rights partnership with NBCUniversal, which officially kicked off last Friday with “SmackDown” airing on USA Network, the iconic “Saturday Night’s Main Event” franchise is returning to NBC, it was announced on Tuesday. Set to air LIVE on Saturday, December 14 at 8:00 p.m. ET on NBC and simulcast on Peacock, the special will take place at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Long Island, N.Y., the site of the first-ever “Saturday Night’s Main Event.” Available now through exclusive partner On Location, fans can purchase official “Saturday Night’s Main Event” Priority Passes which offer premium seating, hospitality events with Superstar appearances, exclusive photo opportunities, and more. To buy now or learn more about “Saturday Night’s Main Event” Priority Passes, visit onlocationexp.com/mainevent. General admission tickets go on sale Friday, September 20 at 10:00 a.m. ET via ticketmaster.com, with pre-sale tickets available beginning Thursday, September 19 at 10:00 a.m. ET. To receive exclusive pre-sale information for “Saturday Night’s Main Event,” click here. First aired on NBC in May of 1985, “Saturday Night’s Main Event” aired in the late-night slot primarily held by “Saturday Night Live” on the days in which the late-night sketch comedy show was not airing original episodes, which at the time were typically holiday weekends. This scheduling pattern continued until 1991. By 1992, FOX aired two more editions of the special before it was later rested entirely by the WWE (then WWF). By March 2006, NBC and the WWE would revive the franchise, airing five more specials from 2006-2008. Valued at an estimated $1.4 billion, the NBCUniversal deal with the WWE also sees Peacock as the live streaming home of WWE’s programming in the U.S., including upcoming premium live events such as “Bad Blood,” “NXT Halloween Havoc” and “Crown Jewel,” in addition to WWE shows like “Bray Wyatt: Becoming Immortal,” “American Nightmare: Becoming Cody Rhodes” and “WWE Evil.” Check out a promo for “Saturday Night’s Main Event” below. You can also check out a clip from the January 2, 1988 event which saw Andre the Giant attack Hulk Hogan. Note: The post ‘Saturday Night’s Main Event’ Revived At NBC, Part of New, Five-Year Domestic Media Rights Partnership With WWE appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

If you tuned into the Monday, September 16 or Tuesday, September 17 episodes of ABC’s “General Hospital,” you will have seen a different but familiar face appearing as Sam McCall on the daytime drama series with Lindsay Hartley once again filling in for Kelly Monaco. Kate Mansi, Kristen Vaganos, Tajh Bellow ABC via Screengrab According to Soap Opera Digest, Hartley is set to appear in multiple episodes this week with the outlet noting Hartley’s scenes were taped around the same time she taped the funeral scenes that aired in August where Sam (Hartley) stood in support of her dueling sisters, Molly (Kristen Vaganos) and Kristina (Kate Mansi) as they grieved the loss of their child, fathered by T.J. (Tajh Bellow). “Because ‘GH’ often shoots segments of episodes out of order, there was a lag time of several weeks before Hartley’s work made it to air,” Digest pointed out in its report. Kelly Monaco Craig Sjodin/ABC At press time, no reason was given for why Hartley stepped in for Monaco, which is something she has done on several occasions dating back to August 2020 when Monaco was unavailable after she reportedly was forced into a 14-day quarantine following a breathing problem related to a mask on the first day back shooting after the show got the green light from Los Angeles County during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hartley has since filled in for Monaco on several other occasions, including in 2022 and earlier this year. Last month, Soap Opera Network was the first to report that Monaco had been let go after nearly 21 years on the show, with the Sam McCall character set to be killed off this fall. While ABC has not formally commented on Monaco’s departure, the network did inform the media that her exit is “storyline dictated,” something sources tell us “blindsided” the actress. On Sunday, September 15, while honoring the first anniversary of the death of her friend and former “General Hospital” co-star, the late Billy Miller (ex-Drew Cain), Monaco revealed that she “took the cut” in response to a post regurgitating an unsubstantiated rumor that she was allegedly the only cast member who opted against taking a cut, either in salary or episode guarantee after the show saw its budget slashed following a Disney mandate to cut costs across its media networks before the end of the company’s fiscal year on September 30. The cuts also impacted “Good Morning America,” the New York Post reported. A final air date for Monaco on “General Hospital” has not been announced. Note: The post Lindsay Hartley Back To ‘General Hospital’ appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Although it’s yet to be determined how long her latest stay in Port Charles will last, it looks like Emma Samms is appearing on “General Hospital” as a contract player. According to a recent update to the show’s end credits (September 13, 2024), Samms is now the 34th actor on contract at the daytime drama series, replacing Adam J. Harrington in the roster after his character, John “Jagger” Cates, was killed off in recent episodes. Samms reprised her role as Holly Sutton on the ABC daytime drama series on Wednesday, September 4. Since then, she’s appeared in scenes alongside Jonathan Jackson’s character, Lucky Spencer. Although not officially in Port Charles just yet, Holly and Lucky will soon make their way home after spending the past couple of weeks at a refugee camp in East Africa, somewhere near Somalia. In the case of Lucky, he’s being held captive by Sidwell (Carlo Rota), while Holly is after her latest prize. This isn’t the first time Samms has returned to “General Hospital” on contract. During her 2022 and 2023 stints, she appeared on the show in a contract capacity despite her stays running on the short end, lasting no more than a month to a month and a half. In addition to “General Hospital,” Samms is also best known for her role as Fallon Carrington Colby on both “Dynasty” and “The Colbys.” She also appeared in numerous episodes of the British soap opera “Doctors,” playing the role of Amanda Vardalis. On X (formerly Twitter), Samms recently responded to a post showing a photo of herself sitting at a table alongside former “Dynasty” co-stars Jack Coleman (ex-Steven Carrington) and Gordon Thompson (ex-Adam Carrington). “So lucky to still have these two lovely men as my friends,” commented Samms in response to the photo, which was captioned with the message, “Carrington siblings re-united over a delightful lunch.” Note: The post Emma Samms On Contract At ‘General Hospital’ appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

As Kelly Monaco continues to tape episodes leading toward the untimely death of her character, Sam McCall, some of her “General Hospital” co-stars are cheering for her as she prepares for the unknown, including Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos) and Laura Wright (Carly Spencer). “Every time someone leaves a show I always believe something great is going to come,” said Benard in a post on X (formerly Twitter), in response to a poster asking the cast to speak on behalf of Monaco. “It’s a blessing in disguise. Kelly is really talented. And she will succeed.” Benard’s comments were echoed in a since-deleted post by Wright who said, “I’m with ya Mo !!! I see an incredible opportunity!! I can’t wait to see Kelly shine.” At press time, Wright’s post had more than 2,000 views on X (formerly Twitter) before it was deleted, while Benard’s post remains and has garnered nearly 300 likes and nearly 23,000 views. In late August, Soap Opera Network broke the news that Monaco had been let go from “General Hospital,” with her character slated to be killed off this fall. According to sources, Monaco was said to be “blindsided” by the show’s decision, and while ABC has not formally commented on Monaco’s departure, the network did inform the media that her exit is “storyline dictated.” “I took the cut. That’s all I’ll say in this moment,” said Monaco in a reply to a post on Instagram addressing an unsubstantiated rumor that she was allegedly the only cast member who opted against taking a cut, either in salary or episode guarantee, which was something allegedly requested by the show’s producers of its talent roster following an alleged Disney mandate to cut costs across its media networks before the end of the company’s fiscal year on September 30. Monaco has also received public support from some of her former colleagues at “General Hospital,” including Michael Easton (ex-Hamilton Finn) and Kimberly McCullough (ex-Robin Scorpio). In response to Monaco’s Instagram post honoring the first anniversary of the passing of her friend and former “General Hospital” co-star, the late Billy Miller (ex-Drew Cain), Easton said, “You have a lot of people who love you Kelly and we all have your back.” Meanwhile, McCullough stated, “My heart goes out to you Kelly.” “Duces [sic] ‘I’ve got your back and you always had mine,’” read the caption on Monaco’s post where she quoted a statement made by Miller in the past. “I will tell our story soon enough…. I love and miss you… and beyond,” Monaco concluded in her post. For reference, “Deuces” was a nickname the pair used stemming as far back as when Monaco shared a photo of herself on Miller’s back in a July 2017 post on X (formerly Twitter). An X user recently shared a signed copy of the photo written by Miller to Monaco that said, “To the best partner I have ever had – who has my back and I have hers because it takes TWO! ‘Deuces’ — Love, Billy.” As of Sunday, September 15, more than 14,000 signatures have been compiled from a fan campaign hoping the show would reverse course and rehire Monaco. In fact, last week, a mobile billboard was driven around the show’s Prospect Studios in Hollywood, as well as Disney’s headquarters in Burbank. That said, I’m still hearing plans remain in place for the show to kill off Monaco’s character. A final air date for Monaco on “General Hospital” has not been announced. Note: The post ‘General Hospital’s Maurice Benard & Laura Wright Comment on Kelly Monaco’s Upcoming Exit, Wish Actress Success appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Hours after posting a heartfelt message on Instagram wherein she honored the first anniversary of the passing of her friend and former “General Hospital” co-star, the late Billy Miller (ex-Drew Cain), actress Kelly Monaco (Sam McCall) later updated the post with tags for the official “General Hospital” handle, along with the official handles for Disney, Hulu and ABC Current Series executive Nathan Varni (“General Hospital,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “The Conners”), along with the hashtags “Craig Erwich” and “Rob Mills.” “Duces [sic] ‘I’ve got your back and you always had mine,’” read the caption on Monaco’s post where she quoted a statement made by Miller in the past. “I will tell our story soon enough…. I love and miss you… and beyond,” Monaco concluded in her post. For reference, “Deuces” was a nickname the pair used stemming as far back as when Monaco shared a photo of herself on Miller’s back in a July 2017 post on X (formerly Twitter). An X user recently shared a signed copy of the photo written by Miller to Monaco that said, “To the best partner I have ever had – who has my back and I have hers because it takes TWO! ‘Deuces’ — Love, Billy.” While it’s unclear why Monaca decided to update her Instagram post, it should be noted that Craig Erwich is President, Disney Television Group, overseeing content strategy across ABC Entertainment, Disney Branded Television, Freeform and Hulu Originals programming. Meanwhile, Rob Mills is Executive Vice President, Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment at Walt Disney Television and Walt Disney Television Alternative, who also oversees daytime programming for ABC. In addition to updating her Instagram post, Monaco also addressed an unsubstantiated rumor going around that she was allegedly the only cast member who opted against taking a cut, either in salary or episode guarantee, which was something allegedly requested by the show’s producers of its talent roster following a Disney mandate to cut costs across its media networks. In addition to “General Hospital,” the cuts at ABC also allegedly impacted such shows as “Good Morning America.” In July, the New York Post reported that Disney wanted the cuts implemented before the end of the company’s fiscal year on September 30. In late August, Soap Opera Network broke the news that Monaco had been let go from “General Hospital,” with her character slated to be killed off this fall. According to sources, Monaco was said to be “blindsided” by the show’s decision, and while ABC has not formally commented on Monaco’s departure, the network did inform the media that her exit is “storyline dictated.” “I took the cut. That’s all I’ll say in this moment,” responded Monaco to the poster on Instagram. Her reply has since accumulated more than 300 likes and numerous responses in support of the actress. The initial Instagram post by Monaco has thus far amassed more than 35,000 likes and 1,700 replies at press time, with many in the industry either liking or responding to the post, including former ”General Hospital” colleagues Michael Easton (ex-Hamilton Finn) and Kimberly McCullough (ex-Robin Scorpio). “You have a lot of people who love you Kelly and we all have your back,” commented Easton, who not only co-starred alongside Monaco on “General Hospital,” but the two played on-screen lovers during their time on “Port Charles,” where he played Caleb Morley and she played Livvie Locke. Easton’s reply has since amassed more than 500 likes from fans. “My heart goes out to you Kelly,” stated McCullough, who included a “heart” emoji in her reply, which has received nearly 1,000 likes since it was posted. As of Sunday, September 15, more than 14,000 signatures have been compiled from a fan campaign hoping the show would reverse course and rehire Monaco. In fact, last week, a mobile billboard was driven around the show’s Prospect Studios in Hollywood, as well as Disney’s headquarters in Burbank. That said, I’m hearing plans still remain in place for the show to kill off Monaco’s character. A final air date for Monaco on “General Hospital” has not been announced. Note: The post ‘General Hospital’ Star Kelly Monaco Reveals She “Took The Cut” After Soap’s Budget Gets Slashed appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

This week on “General Hospital,” Sam (Lindsay Hartley) has her own theory about what is truly going on. Molly (Kristen Vaganos) lets Kristina (Kate Mansi) know that their mother, Alexis (Nancy Lee Grahn) has been arrested for John’s murder. Meanwhile, Sonny (Maurice Benard) tries to misdirect Molly. Elsewhere, Tracy (Jane Elliot) is disgusted by what she sees and confronts Sasha (Sofia Mattsson). Nina (Cynthia Watros) also shares news with Sasha, this time about her feelings for Drew (Cameron Mathison). Willow (Katelyn MacMullen) is uneasy about her own feelings while keeping secrets from Michael (Chad Duell). while Jason (Steve Burton) and Anna (Finola Hughes) continue their big adventure. Finally, Sonny and Ava (Maura West) clash over Avery’s custody. DVR ALERTS Monday, September 9, 2024– Kristina confronts Molly. – Alexis and Sam put their heads together. – Ava makes an introduction. – Danny has news for Elizabeth. – Tracy and Sasha clash. New | #15551 Tuesday, September 10, 2024– Sam develops a new theory. – Sonny challenges Molly. – Alexis makes a big sacrifice. – Nina shares her feelings with Sasha. – Drew takes action.New | #15552 Cameron Mathison, Donnell Turner Bahareh Ritter/Disney Wednesday, September 18, 2024– Alexis is in for a shock. – Trina and Portia catch up. – Ric delivers bad news. – Sonny makes a hire. – Molly encounters Dex. New | #15553 Maurice Benard ABC Thursday, September 19, 2024– Anna and Jason embark on a mission. – Lucky is desperate to escape. – Elizabeth and Ric have a heart-to-heart. – Gio offers an apology. – Dante makes Isaiah’s acquaintance. New | #15554 Friday, September 20, 2024– Anna and Jason are in great danger. – Robert interrogates Brennan. – Ned vents to Lois. – Willow is uneasy. – Curtis weighs a big decision. New | #15555 PROMO Note: The post General Hospital PreVUE For The Week of September 16-20, 2024 appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

This week on “The Bold and the Beautiful,” Steffy (Jacqueline MacInnes) takes command of things while Brooke (Katherine Kelly Lang) makes demands, and reaches her confession era. Meanwhile, Taylor (Rebecca Budig) opens up to Ridge (Thorsten Kaye) and faces Eric (John McCook) for the first time since being back in town. Elsewhere, Captain Deuce Stevens (Tom Arnold) is back and has an unexpected encounter. The Spencer family tries to make amends with Katie (Heather Tom) working her magic on Bill (Don Diamont) and Will (Crew Morrow). Finn (Tanner Novlan) is stuck in the middle. DVR ALERTS Monday, September 16, 2024– Hope is stunned by Steffy’s shocking news. – Katie creates a scenario for Bill and Will to work out their differences.New | #9360 Tuesday, September 17, 2024– Steffy issues Hope a challenging ultimatum. – Brooke demands respect from Taylor.New | #9361 Wednesday, September 18, 2024– Taylor greets Eric for the first time since returning to Los Angeles. – Brooke confesses to Finn.New | #9362 Thursday, September 19, 2024– Ridge and Taylor reminisce about their past.New | #9363 Friday, September 20, 2024– Captain Deuce Stevens has a run-in with April during an office visit with Finn.New | #9364 COMINGS & GOINGS Tom Arnold returns as Captain Deuce Stevens on Friday, September 20. Jamison Belushi returns as April, the Lab Tech, on Friday, September 20. STORY IN PICTURES *Link w/Credit* Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Note: The post The Bold and the Beautiful PreVUE For The Week of September 16-20, 2024 appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

This week on “Days of our Lives,” Connie’s (Julie Dove) plans start to unravel after her secrets are revealed, leaving her to take some drastic measures. Meanwhile, “Abigail” (AnnaLynne McCord) is forced to continue with the plan on deceiving Chad (Billy Flynn). Elsewhere, EJ (Dan Feuerriegel) realizes how much Gabi (Cherie Jimenez) means to him. Paulina (Jackée Harry) is surprised by the information she receives, and Roman (Josh Taylor) tries to help Rafe (Galen Gering). Later, Stefan (Brandon Barash) walks in on something unexpected, while Jada (Elia Cantu) attemps to make an arrest. DVR ALERTS Monday, September 9, 2024– Maggie and Sarah commiserate over a failed therapy session. – Alex comforts a grieving StephanieNew | #14945 Tuesday, September 10, 2024– Rafe shares a vague memory with Jada. – Stefan gives Paulina damning information.New | #14946 Wednesday, September 11, 2024– Roman offers to help Rafe. – Ava accepts Stefan’s offer.New | #14947 Thursday, September 12, 2024– Kristen reiterates to Chad that Abigail seems off. – Mark and Abigail deal with a threat.New | #14948 Friday, September 6, 2024– Ava and Stefan’s lives are put in danger. – Chad is deeply moved when Abigail recalls a special memory.New | #14949 PROMO STORY IN PICTURES *Link w/Credit* XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios XJJohnson/JPI Studios Note: The post Days of our Lives PreVUE For The Week of September 16-20, 2024 appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

This week on “The Young and the Restless,” Sharon’s (Sharon Case) family questions her recent activities, wondering why she’s kept secrets from them. Will Nicholas (Joshua Morrow) and Mariah (Camryn Grimes) figure out the truth before it’s too late? Meanwhile, Adam (Mark Grossman) and Chelsea (Melissa Claire Egan) are afraid their own recent activities might damage Connor’s (Judah Mackey) future. Elsewhere, the Newmans reach common ground, and Lily (Christel Khalil) seeks counsel in her battle against Billy (Jason Thompson) while Phyllis (Michelle Stafford) wiggles her way in. Later, Sharon confronts Cameron (Linden Ashby). DVR ALERTS Monday, September 16, 2024– Nick and Mariah learn troubling news. – Victoria makes a decision about her future with Cole. – Daniel vows to protect Lucy.New | #12958 Tuesday, September 17, 2024– Sharon clears the air with Daniel. – Phyllis plots her next move. – Billy stands his ground with Chelsea.New | #12959 Wednesday, September 18, 2024– Victor keeps a secret from Nikki. – Claire confides in Cole. – Victoria faces a moral dilemma.New | #12960 Thursday, September 19, 2024– Phyllis strategizes with Billy. – Devon and Nate give Lily unsolicited advice. – Sharon covers her tracks.New | #12961 Friday, September 20, 2024– Victor loses patience with Victoria’s need to help Billy. – Nick seeks counsel to help Sharon. – Adam and Chelsea fear their mistakes will hurt Connor. – Mariah catches Sharon in a lie.New | #12962 STORY IN PICTURES *Link w/Credit* Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Howard Wise/JPI Studios Note: The post The Young and the Restless PreVUE For The Week of September 16-20, 2024 appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Kelly Monaco (Sam McCall, “General Hospital”) took to Instagram on Sunday where she posted a heartfelt message in honor of the first anniversary since the death of her friend and former co-star, the late Billy Miller (ex-Drew Cain), who, one year ago today, took his own life after a lengthy battle with bipolar disorder. “Duces [sic] ‘I’ve got your back and you always had mine,’ read the post caption on Monaco’s post where she quoted a statement made by Miller in the past. “I will tell our story soon enough…. I love and miss you… and beyond.” For reference, “deuces” was a nickname the pair used stemming as far back as when Monaco shared a photo of herself on Miller’s back in a July 2017 post on X (formerly Twitter). An X user recently shared a signed copy of the photo written by Miller to Monaco that said, “To the best partner I have ever had – who has my back and I have hers because it takes TWO! ‘Deuces’ — Love, Billy.” Billy Miller, Kelly Monaco Howard Wise/JPI Studios Monaco’s post marks the first time since we first reported late last month that the actress was being let go from “General Hospital,” with her character being killed off this fall. According to sources, Monaco was said to be “blindsided” by the show’s decision. ABC has not issued an official statement on Monaco’s departure except to say that her exit was “storyline dictated.” At press time, Monaco’s Instagram post has garnered over 32,000 likes and more than 1,500 comments, including responses from some of Monaco’s former co-stars at “General Hospital” like Michael Easton (ex-Harrison Finn) and Kimberly McCullough (ex-Robin Scorpio), among others. On September 15, 2023, Miller took his own life just two days shy of his 44th birthday. His death was officially ruled a suicide by the Travis County Medical Examiner, located in Austin, Texas. Two months after his death, his family established a permanent scholarship endowment at the University of Texas at Austin to help radio/television and film undergraduate students with financial need. Click here to donate to the William John Miller II “Billy Miller” Memorial Scholarship. Note: The post Kelly Monaco Remembers Billy Miller One Year After His Death appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

On September 15, 2023, three-time Daytime Emmy Award winner Billy Miller (“The Young and the Restless,” “General Hospital”) passed away following a lengthy battle with bipolar disorder, just two days shy of what would have been his 44th birthday. Two months later, his death was officially ruled as suicide by the Travis County Medical Examiner. On the first anniversary of his death, and just two days short of what would have been his 45th birthday, fans of the beloved actor took to social media on Sunday to share thoughts and memories of Miller, including photos, videos and other forms of media. “He was the best actor! He could take on a role and make it so good! Rest In Peace Billy you are so missed,” said one user on X (formerly Twitter). “Billy, you’ll always be remembered this way – you will get the justice that you deserve. Thank you for sharing yourself with the rest of us,” said another. “Doesn’t seem like it’s been a year. Miss Billy Miller so much on YR. Billy and Amelia were great together,” commented one other poster. Among the numerous posts, a tribute video made in honor of Miller by Casey Hutchison (co-host, “The Chat”) was also re-shared by some users. In a statement released a few days after his passing, Miller’s mother, Patricia Miller, said, “I want to personally thank the many fans & personal friends for the overwhelming amount of love, prayers & condolences sent to me and my family on the devastating death of my beautiful son BJ — Billy Miller. He fought a long hard valiant battle with bipolar depression for years. He did everything he could to control the disease. He loved his family, his friends and his fans but in the end the disease won the fight and he surrendered his life.” Born William John Miller II, Billy was an avid movie buff, earning his bachelor’s degree in radio and television in 2002 at the University of Texas at Austin. Two months after his death, his family established a permanent scholarship endowment at the University of Texas at Austin to help radio/television and film undergraduate students with financial need. “I hope BJ is remembered for the kind-hearted, silly, funny, goofy, generous, beautiful soul that he was,” said Miller’s sister, Megan Hubbell, in a statement at the time announcing the scholarship. “His megawatt smile, deep belly laugh and gorgeous mug were gifts on screen, but his true self was a bright light that will be carried with us forever.” “We want something positive to be held in his name in perpetuity through the University he loved,” Hubbell continued. “He would be honored to know that even in death, he can help someone else realize their dreams.” Miller, who first made a name for himself in daytime playing the role of Richie Novak on “All My Children,” went on to receive five Daytime Emmy Award nominations for his portrayal of Billy Abbott on “The Young and the Restless,” ultimately taking home three statues including two for Supporting Actor (2010, 2013) and one for Lead Actor (2014). After concluding his time on “The Young and the Restless,” Miller joined “General Hospital” in late 2014, first as Jason Morgan and then sometime later as Drew Cain when it was revealed that Drew was Jason’s twin brother who had Jason’s memories implanted into his brain. Outside of daytime soaps, Miller appeared in episodes of such shows as “Ringer,” “Suits,” “Ray Donovan,” “Truth Be Told,” “The Rookie” and “NCIS,” among others. He also starred in two Lifetime TV movies, including 2012’s “Fatal Honeymoon,” working alongside Harvey Keitel, and 2015’s “Bad Blood,” On the big screen, the actor was featured in “American Sniper,” the 2014 film starring Bradley Cooper. Click here to donate to the William John Miller II “Billy Miller” Memorial Scholarship. You can read more messages shared by fans below. Note: The post Remembering Billy Miller One Year Later appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Yes, I believe they did. I think other soap mags at the time did as well. During my online era (1999/2000-present), I've only ever used the full names of the shows or their abbreviations, so BEACH wasn't my thing for that show. Just like PASS wasn't mine for Passions, although it felt like it should have been at times. Haha.

Yes, but that's for social media. We're talking about the SON Community within threads where we don't use hashtags, but abbreviations of each show's title like AMC for All My Children, B&B for The Bold and the Beautiful, SuBe for Sunset Beach or PSNS for Passions. An abbreviation for The Gates, IMO, doesn't jive with the above format. Therefore, I'm going with GATES unless someone else comes up with a better option. Agreed. TG reminds me of Tony Geary. Just to add... DAYS is the abbreviation for Days of our Lives (although some use DOOL). GATES just has one more letter, so I think it would be fine for The Gates. For instance, when I release news stories going forward, I plan to use both #TheGates #Gates in my social media posts, even though the latter hashtag might be synonymous with Bill Gates or the Gates Foundation. Hey, more potential eyeballs.

I just put GATES in the title because that makes more sense to me. Not sure how you can abbreviate that like we do for the other soaps, and using the full name makes no sense to me. Unless the show retitles itself between now and the premiere date, I would think GATES makes the most sense as being the formal title for the show when making topics/threads/posts.

They are going after all kinds of DAYS pages, including those on X (formerly Twitter) it appears. Lots of cease and desist letters, and threats of accounts being suspended/deleted. Thus far, besides copyright purposes, there doesn't seem to be any official indication this is leading to a streaming deal where older episodes/clips of DAYS will be available on a platform.

The Walt Disney Company and cable/satellite provider DIRECTV (including U-verse) have reached a principle agreement that sees the return of Disney’s linear networks restored immediately to the carrier’s 11 million customers, it was announced on Saturday. The deal ends a 13-day standoff between Disney and DIRECTV that began on Sunday, September 1. ABC As part of the agreement, Disney’s entertainment, sports and news programming from its comprehensive linear portfolio of networks will continue being carried by DIRECTV but at market-based terms. This includes the ABC Owned Television Stations, the array of ESPN networks, the Disney-branded channels, Freeform, the FX networks and the National Geographic channels. Reportedly, the deal offers an opportunity that offers multiple genre-specific options — sports, entertainment, kids & family — inclusive of Disney’s linear networks along with Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+. Disney’s direct-to-consumer streaming services (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+) will be included in select DIRECTV packages under a wholesale agreement and made available on an a la carte basis. Meanwhile, DIRECTV’s right to distribute Disney’s upcoming ESPN flagship direct-to-consumer service is being granted at platform launch at no additional cost to the provider’s customers. “Through this first-of-its-kind collaboration, DIRECTV and Disney are giving customers the ability to tailor their video experience through more flexible options,” the companies said in a joint statement. “DIRECTV and Disney have a long-standing history of connecting consumers to the best entertainment, and this agreement furthers that commitment by recognizing both the tremendous value of Disney’s content and the evolving preferences of DIRECTV’s customers. We’d like to thank all affected viewers for their patience and are pleased to restore Disney’s entire portfolio of networks in time for college football and the Emmy Awards this weekend.” In the early stages of the dispute, DIRECTV offered a $30 credit to customers who signed up to rivals Sling TV or Fubo, while Disney shared a list of alternate carriage providers, including its Hulu + Live TV service, among others. Despite the blackout, ESPN saw some of its best season opening ratings for “Monday Night Football” on Monday, September 9 which averaged averaged 20.5 million viewers across ESPN, ABC, ESPN2, ESPN+, ESPN Deportes, and NFL+. The San Francisco 49ers beat the New York Jets 32-19. The game became the second-most-watched Week 1 matchup in the 19 seasons since ESPN began airing the sports franchise (2006–present, 34 games*). This year’s game topped the 2022 matchup between the Denver Broncos at Seattle Seahawks, which ranked third among week 1 matchups, averaging 19.8 million viewers. The 2023 game between the Buffalo Bills at New York Jets topped the chart with 22.7 million viewers. Sunny Hostin, Joy Behar, Anna Navarro, Whoopi Goldberg, Sara Haines, Alyssa Farah Griffin Jeff Lipsky/ABC At ABC, the network did see a dent in its daytime lineup with “The View,” “GMA3: What You Need to Know” and “General Hospital” each attracting their lowest audiences ever for a season opener. The principle deal between Disney and DIRECTV should not only improve things going forward for the network, but it also gives the network’s coverage of “The 76th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards” on Sunday, September 15 a fighting chance to improve upon recent Emmy broadcasts, particularly last year’s telecast which received record low viewership on FOX. Note*: Overall, there have been 34 Week 1 games on ESPN platforms due to doubleheaders in most seasons. Note: The post DIRECTV and Disney Reach Agreement In Principle; Linear Networks ABC, ESPN & Disney Channels Restored appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Just under a year since the final weekly print edition of Soap Opera Digest was published, soap fans were in for a surprise when fall previews for “Days of our Lives,” “General Hospital” and “The Young and the Restless” began circulating online in recent weeks from what was alleged to have come from the now specially produced full-sized edition of the magazine. Since the first preview guide was released in late August on X (formerly Twitter), and shared across message boards and other social media platforms, Soap Opera Network has confirmed that no such fall preview guide exists, either from a print edition of Soap Opera Digest or the still active online website. The first fake preview guide released presented a breakdown of what’s coming up in Genoa City as outlined by “The Young and the Restless” executive producer/head writer, Josh Griffith. It was followed by an alleged guide outlined by “Days of our Lives” executive producer Ken Corday, with one for “General Hospital” popping up soon after. All three guides created debate among fans, who were either thrilled by what was highlighted, or outraged by what was not. “BIG FYI – these are fake! Someone with too much time on their hands put together fact [sic] SOD Fall previews. SOD is only available online & no previews were included in the special edition they just put out,” noted X (formerly Twitter) user @SoapJenn on Friday, September 13 after “General Hospital” fans were in an uproar over what was alleged to be the fall preview for their favorite soap. Despite the fall preview guides being fake, it appears that at least some of the information might have been real, with some of the previews lifted from a recent article published by TV Insider, which is the only reputable outlet to have published a fall preview guide for the four remaining daytime dramas, including “The Bold and the Beautiful.” You can read those previews, here. Since ceasing to publish weekly print editions in November 2023, Soap Opera Digest has finally started to make good on its plan to release special print issues at least four times a year, with at least two special full-size editions now on sale, including “The Ultimate Young & Restless Guide” (display until 10/14/24) and “Soaps’ 50 Great Couples” (display until 12/16/24), which can be purchased online at the Magazine Store, a magazine distribution site owned by Digest publisher a360media. You can also grab your copies at your local newsstand, where available. To be clear, neither special editions, which sees Carolyn Hinsey and Mark McGarry as editors, include fall preview guides for the four daytime dramas. Note: The post Fake Soap Opera Digest Fall Preview Guides Circulate Online, Causes Stir on Social Media appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Ahead of ABC’s broadcast of “The 76th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards” on Sunday, September 15, the network and the Television Academy have announced a diverse lineup of talent who will serve as presenters, including Matt Bomer (“Guiding Light”) and Dick Van Dyke (“Days of our Lives,” “The Dick Van Dyke Show”). According to the network, this year’s presenters represent critically acclaimed television series, Emmy-nominated programs across many viewing platforms and genres, and Emmy nominees — all tapped to celebrate television excellence on the esteemed awards show, which this year is being hosted by father and son acting duo Eugene Levy and Dan Levy (“Schitt’s Creek”). Talent set to present includes Kathy Bates, Meredith Baxter, Candice Bergen, Gael Garcia Bernal, Zach Braff, Connie Britton, Nicola Coughlan, Billy Crystal, Viola Davis, Giancarlo Esposito, Colin Farrell, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Dulé Hill, Ron Howard, Brendan Hunt, Joshua Jackson, Allison Janney, Don Johnson, Mindy Kaling, Padma Lakshmi, John Leguizamo, George Lopez, Diego Luna, Reba McEntire, Janel Moloney, Niecy Nash-Betts, Taylor Zakhar Perez, Mekhi Phifer, Melissa Peterman, Sam Richardson, Maya Rudolph, Richard Schiff, Martin Sheen, Jimmy Smits, Antony Starr, Gina Torres, Susan Kelechi Watson, Damon Wayans, Henry Winkler, Bowen Yang and Steven Yeun. Additional talent set to present includes nominees Christine Baranski (Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series), Bomer (Outstanding Actor In A Limited or Anthology Series or Movie), Lily Gladstone (Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Limited Or Anthology Series Or Movie), Selena Gomez (Outstanding Actress In A Comedy Series), Jimmy Kimmel (Outstanding Talk Series, Outstanding Writing For a Variety Special & Winner for Outstanding Variety Special Live), Greta Lee (Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series), Jane Lynch (Outstanding Host for a Game Show), Steve Martin (Outstanding Actor In A Comedy Series), Nava Mau (Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Limited Or Anthology Series or Movie), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series), Da’Vine Joy Randolph (Outstanding Guest Actress In A Comedy Series), Martin Short (Outstanding Actor In A Comedy Series), Jean Smart (Outstanding Actress In A Comedy Series) and Kristen Wiig (Outstanding Actress In A Comedy Series). The Emmy broadcast will also feature special appearances from Olympic gold medalist swimmer Caeleb Dressel and Olympic bronze medal-winning rugby player Ilona Maher. Produce by Jesse Collins Entertainment, with Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay serving as executive producers, “The 76th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards” is set to broadcast LIVE on ABC, starting at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT from the Peacock Theater at L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles, with Hulu providing streaming access for a short period thereafter (September 16-22, 2024). Note: The post ABC and Television Academy Announce Presenters For ‘The 76th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards’ appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

When CBS’ “The Bold and the Beautiful” made the surprising decision to kill off its iconic villain Sheila Carter (Kimberlin Brown) back in February, only to bring her back two months later with the twist that it wasn’t her who died but her look-alike, Sugar (also played by Brown), fans weren’t sure if the show decided to reverse course due to backlash, or if the plan was put in place all along—either way, executive producer/head writer Bradley P. Bell formally addressed the decision to bring back the character in a recent interview with Deadline. Kimberlin Brown Howard Wise/JPI Studios According to Bell, “Villains typically need a cooling off period, which just adds to the drama to their return.” He added, “And Sheila needs to cool her heels once in a while. Sheila has been a ratings dynamo, and that’s why she’s murdered so many people. She is now happily married and working at a restaurant. Somehow people forgive her because she’s always looked for love and acceptance. That’s something that we can all relate to.” With “The Bold and the Beautiful” on the air for 37 years and “The Young and the Restless” airing for 51 years,” Bell told Deadline that in a challenging landscape, where television ratings are down across the board, “fans need to know that we are a place they can rely on, not only to visually see those characters, but to know that these character will still be the same you knew from a month ago or 10 years ago or 30 years ago.” Kelly Monaco Craig Sjodin/ABC Bell also says that when a show makes the surprising decision to say goodbye to legacy characters, the story must be strong enough to justify the departure. The comment directly correlates with the recent decision by “General Hospital” to kill off the Sam McCall character, played by 21-year veteran Kelly Monaco, with Bell saying, “You’re getting rid of a lot of history. But if the story is that good, it’s important to make that decision.” An example cited by Bell was the 2012 decision to write out the Stephanie Forrester character on “The Bold and the Beautiful,” played by original cast member Susan Flannery, who was 73 at the time, made the decision that she wanted to retire after an extensive acting career in daytime television that includes “The Young and the Restless” and “Days of our Lives,” among others. Susan Flannery, Katherine Kelly Lang Howard Wise/JPI Studios “It just seemed like a poetic way for her to go,” said Bell, referring to Stephanie dying of cancer while being held by her arch nemesis/daughter-in-law, Brooke Logan (Katherine Kelly Lang), who she’s famously called the “slut from the valley,” following Brooke’s intimate relations with both of Stephanie’s sons (Ridge and Thorne), and her husband, Eric (John McCook). “It’s always scary and it’s always difficult to say goodbye, but again, very necessary,” continued Bell. “You have to kill them every once in a while in order to keep your credibility as a writer. And I promise myself every year, I’m going to kill more people.” This summer, “The Bold and the Beautiful” did just that when it offered up a serial killer storyline that saw two characters bite the dust (Tom and Hollis, played by Clint Howard and Hollis W. Chambers). Lisa Yamada Howard Wise/JPI Studios On the Thursday, August 27 episode, it was revealed that the killer was none other than Luna Nozawa (Lisa Yamada), who had wanted a better life for herself after growing up with a drug-addicted mother, Poppy (Romy Park), and after recently discovering her missing dead beat father, Tom, was a homeless man. In her mind, this left her no other choice than to off anyone who might keep her from getting what she wanted – money and power. Luna went on to frame her mother for her crimes and even kidnapped Steffy Forrester (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) to keep her secret. The storyline paid off in the end as the show recently topped its lead-in “The Young and the Restless” in three of the last four weeks among the key Women 18-49 sales demographic (unrounded). “The Bold and the Beautiful” airs weekdays at 1:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT on CBS. Stream Live and On Demand on Paramount+. Note: The post ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell Addresses Resting Characters, Ratings Challenges appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Officially, CBS has not issued any press release about "The Gates" since first announcing it will debut in January 2025. Everything else is through sources, or certain access to information.