Errol

I KNEW IT! I KNEW IT! I KNEW IT! 😀

Thanks for pointing that out. I don't generally listen to podcasts in the traditional sense so I wouldn't have had a clue -- I prefer my "podcasts" to be video-based since it keeps me focused and there are visuals of what they are talking about. I love your insight, btw!

So, Stephanie Sloane has been credited with the B&B November, DAYS November and GH November Sweeps preview posts, but she physically posted none -- byline says Stephanie, but the link over said name points to another WordPress user. Ironically, the Y&R November Sweeps preview post was likely written by Stephanie, but Devin Owens is the author of the online post. It could be that Stephanie likely wrote it, but he forgot to credit her, or he did the Y&R one instead of her. That said, Mara Levinsky physically posted the B&B and GH November preview, crediting Stephanie. Chris Eades posted the DAYS November preview but credited Stephanie -- I previously stated he posted the DAYS/GH ones on Saturday, but now it looks like he posted the DAYS one and Mara posted the GH one. Overall, Stephanie has these posts showing her being the author, but none of them were physically posted to the site by her even though she does have her own account (https://www.soapoperadigest.com/author/ssloane/). Her last properly credited (published with her name under her account) was the Kyle Lowder interview, posted on October 25, two days before the announced shutdown of the weekly print magazine. She does have a bio page with a bio image, however. The Winsor Harmon/Ashley Jones story I previously noted as credited to Stella Bednarz was actually published on the site by Chris Eades. Carolyn Hinsey is credited with her opinions post, published today, but Mara is the one who physically published it to the site. It appears to be a new Opinion post by Carolyn, btw. Details from the Hot Plots Preview section in the most recent (and final) weekly issue were published on the site. For the first time, we find out who actually wrote those since the print magazine never credited a specific writer with a byline for those. Mara posted the GH Preview (Esme Wants to Move Out) while Janet posted the DAYS Preview (Chad Meets Everett). Regarding a post from the recent Late-Breaking News section, Stephanie is credited with the DAYS Preview (Li Is Murdered), but again, it was not posted to the site by her. Credited to her name, but this time the SOD account is linked (https://www.soapoperadigest.com/author/SOD/). Thus far, only Mara, Stella (via Chris Eades posting it) and Devin have been posting actual new content that wasn't previously found in a recent or current issue of the now-defunct weekly magazine. The site appears to have completely abandoned the "Five Things That Happened" in Soap History and Birthday Spotlight posts, which are considered throwaway content for when you have nothing better to post on your site. Just "My Opinion." Then again, they might start them back up again once they are no longer publishing stuff from older issues. ON A RELATED NOTE: I recently had back-and-forth conversations through email with a digital magazine distributor (I won't name them) about the Soap Opera Digest situation (52 issues per year to 4 per year), and in my opinion, they are playing stupid, fast and loose. They are telling me the "good news" in that digital subscriptions to the magazine will continue, but instead of getting 52 issues subscribers will only get 4, which they acknowledge I already knew. "For customer's who have an existing subscription they will continue to receive the new issues as they are delivered," I was told. In theory that makes sense, but if you pre-paid for a subscription and it goes from 52 to 4 per year, are they really going to make subscribers believe they will now have five more years of a magazine subscription if they had say 20 issues (4 per year x 5 years) remaining on said subscription? Or even as many as ten years or more if they recently subscribed to Soap Opera Digest? I do not believe that for a second, especially since the Variety article stated the magazine would print four special issues yearly. I quote, "The company plans to continue publishing special print issues of Soap Opera Digest four times per year." Keyboard is "special." Speaking of that word, here's what the unnamed company told me on that matter. "Please note that Special issues will not be apart of the subscription." Hence why I said they are playing "stupid, fast and loose" with the situation. Just more of my ramblings. All of which are my personal opinions and do not represent those of Soap Opera Network.

In case you missed the first of three scheduled performances by Ken Corday last night, you are in luck: the “Days of our Lives” executive producer can be seen performing on Wednesday, November 8 and Saturday, November 11, at the legendary Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank, CA, as he presents his first piano recital in over 50 years. Featuring a collection of never-before-heard, completely original works, tickets for the concert, “Ken Corday Presents: ‘Songs Without Words’ Benefit Concert,” can be purchased online for $40 by visiting the Gary Marshall Theatre website. Each show begins at 8:00 p.m. Note: Price does not include any additional fees, parking, merchandise or concessions. Additionally, due to the nature of live theatre and events, artists and special guests are subject to change. All proceeds from the concert will go to benefit the SAG/AFTRA Foundation’s Emergency Assistance Program and the important work they continue to do. During Corday’s performance on Saturday, November 4, several “Days of our Lives” cast members were in attendance, including Deidre Hall (Marlens), Stephen Nichols (Steve), Jackeé Harry (Paulina), Josh Taylor (Roman), Peter Porte (Dimitri), Greg Rikaart (Leo), and Suzanne Rogers (Maggie). Also in attendance were former “Days of our Lives” co-executive producer Greg Meng, casting director Marnie Saitta, makeup artist Karen Dahl, costume designer Richard Bloore and members of Corday’s immediate family, among others. Check out photos from the event below. Jackeé Harry, Greg Meng, Deidre Hall Photo by Jill Johnson/JPI Studios Suzanne Rogers, Stephen Nichols, Josh Taylor Photo by Jill Johnson/JPI Studios Karen Dahl, Suzanne Rogers, Richard Bloore Photo by Jill Johnson/JPI Studios Marnie Saitta, Ken Corday Photo by Jill Johnson/JPI Studios Ken Corday, Greg Meng Photo by Jill Johnson/JPI Studios Peter Porte, Greg Rikaart Photo by Jill Johnson/JPI Studios For more information about the concert, Ken Corday and the Gary Marshall Theatre, click here. Note: The post Ken Corday Performs First Piano Recital in Over 50 Years with ‘Songs Without Words’ Benefit Concert appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

After his character is found lying unconscious on the floor, bleeding from a literal knife wound in the back, it looks like Li Shin’s time in Salem has reached its end, and with it, portrayer Remington Hoffman concludes his nearly four-year run on “Days of our Lives.” According to Soap Opera Digest, which first reported the news in the magazine’s final weekly print issue, on sale now, the show’s head writer, Ron Carlivati, tells the magazine, “It’s been so much fun to write for his character,” referring to Hoffman.”He added, “We’ve fleshed out his family with Wendy [Victoria Grace] and featured him on ‘Chad & Abby in Paris’ and ‘Beyond Salem.’ It was a story-dictated decision.” Following his appearance in the “Chad & Abby” digital series, Hoffman made his formal “Days of our Lives” debut as Li Shin, the youngest son of DiMera Enterprises board member Mr. Shin (Michael Hagiwara), on April 22, 2020. The role was initially meant to be recurring but Li quickly became a fan favorite when he got entangled in the life of one Gabi Hernandez (Camila Banus) during a time in which she lobbied for the position of CEO of DiMera. “The whole first day that I shot was pretty much with Camila,” said Hoffman at the time of his debut in an interview with Soap Opera Digest. “It was really cool working with her because she’s really free. She’s really unexpected, and that’s the best thing to be around. She has a lot of energy and she’s really focused.” In the latest promo highlighting what’s to come during the week of November 6-10, 2023, a devastated Wendy is shown walking into the apartment as she sees her brother face down on the floor while Gabi and Stefan (Brandon Barash) are seemingly trying to assess what is going on around them. Later, while at the hospital, Wendy tries to find out who stabbed Li as she asks him point blank, “Who did this to you?” Being a soap, we’ll unlikely find out for certain, especially since Li looks to be taking his final breath. In the meantime, considering her fingerprints are now on the bloodstained knife, Gabi is Salem PD’s prime suspect, but Stefan is certain of her innocence. Watch this week’s promo below. To find out what’s going to happen this upcoming week on “Days of our Lives,” watch all-new episodes of the series, weekdays on Peacock, which is also the exclusive home to catch up with what you missed at any time. For more information, visit PeacockTV.com. Note: The post Remington Hoffman Exits ‘Days of our Lives’; Head Writer Notes It Was Storyline Dictated appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Tom Stacy's bio and bio image is available: https://www.soapoperadigest.com/author/tstacy/ Are you talking about the bio pages? Otherwise, I'm lost. So far of the five bio pages that have been updated, Janet's points to her AOL email (she's freelance at SOD), while Tom Stacy and Devin Owens also have an @soapoperadigest.com email address. Stephanie doesn't have a known bio page to indicate any info or email address since her posts from today were actually published by Chris Eades, who himself doesn't have a formal bio page like the rest do. Per Mara's bio page, yes, she is listed with an @soapoperadigest.com email address.

Ever since it was announced that a360media would shutter the weekly print edition of Soap Opera Digest, subscribers have been clamoring to find out when the magazine would print its final issue. Sadly, Soap Opera Network can confirm that the current November 13, 2023 issue, on sale now, is officially the final weekly print issue of the long-running publication. Following the discontinuation of the weekly print magazine, digital subscribers should reach out to their provider for information on refunds and/or other accommodations as there will not be a weekly digital edition of the magazine published. As of October 31, 2023, the Soap Opera Digest staff has fully transitioned to an online only environment with news, interviews and more published on soapoperadigest.com. Features from recent issues are also being published to the site. With its cover highlighted by the annual November Sweeps preview for the four remaining daytime dramas, the final weekly print issue of Soap Opera Digest features news on Darin Brooks and his exit from “The Bold and the Beautiful” as Wyatt and the return of “Days of our Lives” star Greg Rikaart (Leo) to “The Young and the Restless” as Kevin. The magazine also includes a spread on Camryn Grimes (Mariah, “The Young and the Restless”), the final “Take Five” with Kimberlin Brown (Sheila, “The Bold and the Beautiful”) and columnist Carolyn Hinsey’s stating her opinion that soaps should always bring back actors in their original roles, noting, “it’s like a warm, soapy hug.” Courtesy of a360media The final weekly print issue was formally announced via a notice page on the Soap Opera Digest website, which previously allowed subscribers to order the magazine and/or update their subscription information. The message reads: “Unfortunately, Soap Opera Digest is no longer being published as a weekly magazine, effective with the November 13th, 2023 issue. Please rest assured that as soon as more details are available, we will be notifying all of our subscribers.” This marks the second time that the magazine staff have directly addressed the shutdown of the weekly print magazine. On Monday, October 30, the site published a note from the staff, which at the time only noted that the magazine would be “publishing at a reduced frequency moving forward.” In a statement released to Variety, a360media noted that Soap Opera Digest would publish four special print issues per year going forward. As of June 30, 2023, Soap Opera Digest had a paid and verified circulation of just 43,743, according to the Alliance for Audited Media (AAM), the “recognized leader in publisher audits across digital, print and out-of-home channels.” By comparison, throughout the 1990s, the magazine had a circulation in excess of one million. By 2010, the number had dropped to just under 500,000 and under 100,000 by 2019. Out of the 195 publications audited by AAM, there were 30 publications that had not shared their publisher statements. That said, Digest ranked 154th out of 165 publications that did release their figures, only beating out the likes of Elle Quebec, Conquer Magazine, Diabetes Care, Vero and Les Affaires Plus, among others, in terms of circulation totals. The top 35 selling magazines with a circulation in excess of one million included the likes of People, Reader’s Digest, Good Housekeeping, Us Weekly, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Time, New Yorker, Sports Illustrated,National Geographic, Men’s Health, Women’s Health and even Elle, among others. In April 2020, Bauer Media, now owned by a360media, shuttered the print editions of Soaps In Depth, which released weekly issues as either ABC Soaps In Depth or CBS Soaps In Depth. The brand’s name continues as a digital website sharing news and interviews with stars from the four remaining American soap operas – “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “Days of our Lives,” “General Hospital” and “The Young and the Restless.” Soap Opera Digest was launched in 1975 by founders Angela Shapiro and Jerome Shapiro. Note: The post Final Weekly Print Issue of Soap Opera Digest Released appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

I forgot to add (which is what I started writing in the above post before I rambled about other things): The Soap Opera Digest website has ceased posting those annoying five things that happened in soap history posts and birthday posts. To be clear, by annoying, I just meant it was filler content when you didn't feel like posting any actual content. That's at least one positive to the print magazine shutting down.

In the last couple of hours, Stephanie Sloane has been credited with posting the DAYS and GH November Sweeps previews that were found in the most recent issue of the magazine, which I'm hearing is officially the final issue. However, when you click on her name, it is clear that Chris Eades posted her content as the link points to his author page: https://www.soapoperadigest.com/author/ceades/ (also see attachment) Someone named Stella Bednarz, who is SOD's deputy editor, posted the Ashley Jones and Winsor Harmon casting news from B&B, which originally went to TV Insider as an exclusive, btw (read what I said above about casting news). Tom Freestone, who produces the Dishin with Digest podcast, among other audio/video programming at a360media, posted the one thing thus far, a B&B Preview: https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/the-bold-the-beautiful-preview-ridge-keeps-mum-about-eric/ Brian Beckley, who is the senior photojournalist for SOD, apparently has been handling their gallery posts, although he hasn't been credited with a post since the announced shutdown of the print magazine (October 27). He also posted the most recent Carolyn Hinsey shares her opinions post: https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/carolyn-hinsey-shares-her-opinions-1731017/ I can't say for sure, but it looks to me like someone has gone in and retroactively added the actual authors of many recent posts on the SOD website, as I could have sworn SOD was listed as the author for virtually every post up until the announcement of the print magazine ceasing operations. Janet Di Lauro's recent interview with Blake Berris, featured in the most recent issue of the magazine, is posted on the site. The author pages for Janet, Mara Levinsky, Devin Owens and Brian have been updated to include their bios and headshots, so I expect that means they are all there: Mara Levinsky: https://www.soapoperadigest.com/author/mlevinsky/ Devin Owens: https://www.soapoperadigest.com/author/dowens/ Janet Di Lauro: https://www.soapoperadigest.com/author/soapgodess/ Brian Beckley: https://www.soapoperadigest.com/author/bbeckley/

According to TMZ, a friend discovered Tyler after entering his apartment with a key that they had been previously been given since they hadn't heard from him. The person soon after found Tyler already dead in his bedroom and called 911. TMZ claims to have sources who've told them that "it appeared he had been dead for some time." When they say "some time," they don't speculate or specify, likely because a coroner's report needs to be filed and toxicology tests need to be run. As of now, it's unclear when (date) Tyler officially died. https://www.tmz.com/2023/11/01/general-hospital-tyler-christopher-dead-dies-friend-found-at-home/

During the week of October 16-20, 2023, the most recent week in which daytime syndicated ratings are available, “The Kelly Clarkson Show” kicked off its fifth season with its most-watched and highest-rated premiere week since the launch of the show’s second season back in the fall of 2020. For the week, the show attracted 1.344 million viewers and a 0.93 rating in Households, seeing a boost from last season – up +4% in Households and +2% among Total Viewers. In Women 25-54, the show was up +20%, scoring a 0.36 rating in the all-important sales demographic. Overall, “The Kelly Clarkson Show” was up +2% in Total Viewers compared to the same week last year (1.344 million vs. 1.31 million) and ranked a solid second among the 11 syndicated daytime talk shows, behind only number one ranked “Live with Kelly and Mark” (2.235 million). “The Kelly Clarkson Show” managed to beat out third place “The Drew Barrymore Show” by +279,000 viewers (1.344 million vs. 1.065 million)*. Among Households, “The Kelly Clarkson Show” was up +4% year-to-year (0.93 rating vs. 0.89 rating). Compared to the performance of “The Drew Barrymore Show,” “Dr. Phil” (repeats), “Sherri,” “Tamron Hall” and “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” the Kelly Clarkson-hosted daytime talk show currently ranks as the most-watched and highest-rated afternoon syndicated talk show among Total Viewers, Households, Women 25-54 and Adults 25-54. The fifth season of “The Kelly Clarkson Show” kicked off with the show taping from its new home in New York City, within the iconic studio 6A at Rockefeller Center. The premiere episode began with an all-new season five Kellyoke video and featured Kelly’s new neighbors, including Andy Cohen, Hoda Kotb, Jenna Bush Hager and Seth Meyers, among others. The week continued with a popular “Songs and Stories” episode with Alanis Morissette and a duet and interview with Billy Porter. Additional guests included Jane Krakowski, Eric Nam, Nick Offerman, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sesame Street’s Elmo and Oscar the Grouch, Paul Shaffer, Bowen Yang, a performance by Enhyphen, and new Kellyoke covers all week long, including “I Won’t Give Up” (Kelly Clarkson), “Stronger” (Kelly Clarkson), “New Attitude” (Patti LaBelle), “Crimson and Clover” (Joan Jett & the Blackhearts) and “1985” (Bowling for Soup). Below is a breakdown of how the afternoon syndicated talk shows performed among Total Viewers during the week of October 16-20, 2023. Total Viewers (Persons 2+) Rankings – Afternoon Syndicated Talk Shows: “The Kelly Clarkson Show” – 1.344 million “The Drew Barrymore Show” – 1.065 million (30 minute talk show x 2) “Dr. Phil” – 883,000 viewers “Sherri” – 869,000 viewers “Tamron Hall” – 830,000 viewers “The Jennifer Hudson Show” – 817,000 viewers Note*: Syndicated ratings data excludes other NBCU Programs. “The Drew Barrymore Show” is broken into two separate half-hours. “Live with Kelly and Mark” primarily airs in morning time periods and is excluded from the afternoon syndicated talk show rankings. Numbers are based on Live+Same Day ratings data released by Nielsen. “The Kelly Clarkson Show” is a Universal Television LLC production and distributed in national syndication by NBCUniversal Syndication Studios. The show airs in 100% of the country on more than 200 stations. Alex Duda is the show’s executive producer and showrunner. Kelly Clarkson is also executive producer. Note: The post ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show’ Opened Season 5 with Program’s Most-Watched and Highest Rated Premiere Week in Three Years appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Looking back at 40 years of fan-favorite Christine Blair (aka Cricket), “The Young and the Restless” will air a special standalone episode dedicated to the character’s portrayer, Lauralee Bell, on Thursday, November 2. In the episode, when Christine finds herself at a crossroads professionally and romantically, she receives a little help from her friends. Joining in the celebration are appearances from other show fan favorites, including Michael Damian (Danny Romalotti) and Tricia Cast (Nina Webster). The episode will also showcase classic clips highlighting Cricket’s romantic entanglements through the years as well as her epic rivalry with Phyllis Summers (Michelle Stafford). Previewing the episode, Bell said recently on X (the platform formally known as Twitter), “Thursday’s @YandR_CBS will be filled with past clips with some of my favorite people but it will also be a bit different, mixed with a lot of present day! AND you get to see me say ‘Bite Me’ one more time. Hope you’ll tune on [sic] Thursday! So grateful for our viewers! Some who have been along for the ride since Jabot Junior! Appreciate you!” Bell closed out her post using the hashtag “There is No Us Without You,” referencing the fans of the daytime drama series, while also tagging Damian, Stafford, Cast and even former co-star and on-screen love interest Doug Davidson (ex-Paul Williams) to the post. Check out a preview clip below. Produced by Bell Dramatic Serial Company in association with Sony Pictures Television, “The Young and the Restless” airs weekdays on CBS and is also available to stream live and On Demand via Paramount+. Josh Griffith is the executive producer and head writer of the series. Note: The post TUNE IN ALERT: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Celebrates 40 Years of Lauralee Bell as Christine Blair (aka Cricket) appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

During the Tuesday, November 1 broadcast of CBS’ “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” host Stephen Colbert noted that earlier that day, the network had announced the producing team and head writer for the new late night series, “After Midnight,” but notably withheld information on who will be hosting. Of course, this was all a prelude to Colbert himself announcing the show’s host when comedian Taylor Tomlinson “interrupted” Colbert’s comments on the matter to offer herself up as an option for the job. Tomlinson, a rising stand-up who has already released two Netflix comedy specials, including “Look at You” and “Quarter-Life Crisis,” will formally take over as “After Midnight” host when the show premieres in early 2024 on CBS, following episodes of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” The new show will also be available for streaming on Paramount+ (live and On Demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after it airs)*. Courtesy of CBS Produced by CBS Studios with Stephen Colbert’s Spartina Industries and Funny Or Die, Colbert himself will executive produce alongside Carrie Byalick, president of Spartina Industries; “The Late Show” executive producer Tom Purcell; Evelyn McGee Colbert; and James Dixon of Dixon Talent. The Spartina team is joined by executive producers Joe Farrell, Mike Farah, Whitney Hodack and Henry R. Muñoz III from Funny Or Die. Jason U. Nadler of Serious Business, who co-created “@midnight” by which ‘After Midnight’ is inspired, is also an executive producer. “We are thrilled to be reunited with our friends at Funny Or Die,” said Colbert in a statement. “My hope is that, every night, ‘After Midnight’ will be just as ridiculous as the internet is every day. Plus, the original ‘@midnight’ aired after ‘The Colbert Report,’ so welcoming this new show to 12:30 feels like coming home.” Serving as co-showrunners and executive producers are Jack Martin, showrunner on all four seasons of “@midnight” and current showrunner for CBS’ “Raid the Cage,” and Eric Pierce (CBS’ “The Challenge: USA,” “The Wheel,” “Hollywood Game Night”). Comedian and writer Jo Firestone (“ZIWE”, “The Tonight Show,” “Joe Pera Talks with You”) will be co-executive producer and head writer. Alexx Wells (“Celebrity Squares,” “That’s My Jam,” “The Cube”) will also serve as co-executive producer. “Funny Or Die is proud to partner once again with CBS Studios, Spartina Industries and our longtime friend and collaborator Stephen Colbert,” said Funny Or Die Owner Henry R. Muñoz III. “Now that we are all old enough to stay up until after midnight, I’m excited for this show to harness the power of comedy and laughter to bring us all together.” “After Midnight” replaces “The Late Late Show with James Corden” which ran on CBS for eight seasons before concluding its run in April. Currently the network is airing episodes of “Comics Unleashed with Byron Allen,” which is expected to continue until the official launch of “After Midnight.” Watch as Colbert discussed the “After Midnight” news released by CBS before he himself goes on to announce Tomlinson as the show’s host below. Note: The post Taylor Tomlinson Named Host of CBS’ ‘After Midnight’ During ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’ Appearance appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

I expect Deadline, TVLine, TV Insider, PEOPLE, EW and The New Yorker, among others, to become the exclusive home for breaking casting news. Soaps are no different than any other TV show, and those are the places that generally break TV and movie news most frequently. I'd go there if I were a publicist for one of the shows, even though I personally hate when they do because it hurts my bottom line -- just being honest. That being said, despite no longer publishing a weekly print magazine, I don't expect Digest to go cold turkey in terms of news. However, I don't expect them to publish anything more than what they already did on the website in the past, mixed in with interviews here and there every week. The only area that I'll miss is the comings & goings section. Many of us in the soap industry relied upon that section for news, some more so than others since they never credited Digest for the information they posted when they'd do their news items before most everyone else got their copies of the mag (tangent over). One of the main reasons I was told that Digest still got a lot of the things they did was solely because they were the last remaining print mag, and obviously, a publicist would want their talent on the cover of such. But without the print edition, as I said before, the magazine is now no more important than our message boards. I don't mean to sound rude when I say that, but based on external traffic data and SEO rankings I've obtained, I can tell you which soap sites are more popular than others and Digest isn't number 1 or even number 5 on the list. Digest is usually 6th or 7th in that regard. Soaps In Depth's website is usually ahead of Digest and in no particular order, so are Soap Opera Network, SoapHub, Daytime Confidential, Soap Central, and She Knows Soaps. Keep in mind data fluctuates from week to week but that's usually the most popular soap opera sites in terms of traffic and rankings.

Exactly one year to the day since ABC first replaced Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes on air as co-anchors of “GMA3: What You Need to Know,” although the decision at the time was meant to be temporary, the real-life couple will launch a brand new podcast as part of a venture between the duo and iHeartMedia. They will also collaborate on a full slate of upcoming programming for iHeartPodcasts. Launching Tuesday, December 5 on the iHeartPodcast Network, Robach and Holmes will host a new podcast series titled “Amy & T.J,” which the formidable broadcasting team will also executive produce. With decades of experience delivering headline news and captivating viewers nationwide, the duo will get behind the microphone to explore meaningful conversations about current events, pop culture, and everything in between where “nothing is off limits.” According to iHeartMedia, “Amy & T.J.” is guaranteed to be informative, entertaining, and above all, authentic. It will also mark the first time Robach and Holmes speak publicly since their own names became a part of the headlines. T.J. Holmes, Amy Robach (“GMA3: What You Need to Know”) Photo by Heidi Gutman/ABC In late November 2022, The Daily Mail revealed that Robach and Holmes had been engaged in a previously undisclosed romantic relationship. At the time, Robach was married to former “Melrose Place” star Andrew Shue, while Holmes was married to Marilee Fiebig, an attorney. Although Robach and Holmes continued appearing as hosts of “GMA3” days into their relationship receiving public attention, ABC suspended the pair pending an investigation, TMZ reported. Beginning December 5, 2022, “GMA3” saw a rotation of hosts filling in for Robach and Holmes, including Stephanie Ramos and Gio Benitez. By late January 2023, ABC officially announced that Robach and Holmes had exited ABC News. “After several productive conversations with Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes about different options, we all agreed it’s best for everyone that they move on from ABC News. We recognize their talent and commitment over the years and are thankful for their contributions,” a spokesperson stated at the time. In May, ABC named Eva Pilgrim and DeMarco Morgan as the new co-anchors of “GMA3: What You Need to Know,” with Gio Benitez named co-anchor of the Saturday and Sunday editions of “Good Morning America.” “Amy & T.J.” will be distributed by iHeartPodcasts and will be available later this year on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. iHeartMedia is the leading audio company in America and the No. 1 podcast publisher globally, according to Podtrac industry data. Note: The post Former ‘GMA3’ Co-Anchors Amy Robach and T.J. Holmes to Host ‘Amy & T.J.’ Podcast Series for iHeartMedia appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Right. So Devin is definitely still there.

Wait a minute, Craig died? OMG! He was one of my favorite ABC photographers. Could always count on him for a good photo. WOW.

I'm basing my observation on content not already published in the magazine, past or present issue. Tom's interview with Kristina Wagner was published in the October 30, 2023 issue. His Marie Osmond interview was recently published in the November 6, 2023 issue. Mara again posted new content with a round-up of posts by people who remembered Tyler Christopher on social media so she's definitely there. Based on today's post about Alan Locher and his upcoming interview with Lauralee Bell and Tricia Cast on his podcast, Devin Owens is also still there. Alan emailed out the info to the press yesterday. So, to recap: Mara Levinsky and Devin Owens are officially still around based on current/fresh content. Chris Eades, who primarily writes for the Soaps In Depth website, continues publishing items for the Soap Opera Digest website with his name now appearing on articles. The only change that I've seen besides these is writers of content finally getting recognized for their work. Previously, the website only showed SOD as the author of posts. I've also noticed they are resharing older and newer content multiple times per day on social media channels, similar to Soaps.com, which is SOOOO annoying, but I guess it helps with engagement.

So far, we know that Mara Levinksy is still at Soap Opera Digest based on her reporting on Tyler Christopher's death. Additionally, the website is finally giving bylines to its writers. Chris Eades, who has been working at Soaps In Depth as one of its main writers, is also writing for the Soap Opera Digest website (although I've known that for a while).

Tyler Christopher, best known for his portrayal of Nikolas Cassadine on “General Hospital” and Stefan DiMera on “Days of our Lives,” has died. He was just 50 years old. The news of Christopher’s passing was announced on Instagram by former “General Hospital” co-star Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos). In his post, Benard revealed that Christopher died this morning following a “cardiac event” in his San Diego apartment. “Tyler was a truly talented individual that lit up the screen in every scene he performed and relished bringing joy to his loyal fans through his acting,” shared Benard of his friend. “Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him. Tyler was an advocate for better mental health and substance use treatment who openly spoke about his struggles with bipolar depression and alcohol. We are beyond devastated by the loss of our dear friend and pray for his children and his father.” “General Hospital” executive producer Frank Valentini posted a heartfelt message on X (the platform formally known as Twitter), saying, “I am heartbroken over the news of Tyler Christopher’s passing. He was kind, an incredible actor and a dear friend, who was beloved by our #GH family and fans of Nikolas Cassadine.” He added, “On behalf of everyone at @GeneralHospital, our heartfelt sympathies go out to his loved ones during this difficult time.” In June, it was reported that Christopher was arrested by the Burbank Police Department (BPD) for public intoxication after being found sleeping on the ground near the American Airlines terminal at Burbank Airport. Christopher reportedly told BPD he’d missed his flight. Allegedly, Christopher displayed “clear and objective signs of intoxication” and “was unable to care for himself.” Sources told the outlet that was justification enough for the arrest. Photo by Matt Petit/ABC Winner of the 2016 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his portrayal of Nikolas on “General Hospital,” Christopher shared in an interview published in July that during a dark period in his life, his sister took “advantage” of him after having placed him under guardianship in Indiana in 2020, following a 2019 emergency event in which Christopher underwent life-saving craniotomy surgery. “I never thought in a million years that I would be taken advantage of by a family member,” Christopher told Bloomberg Law. Christopher made his television acting debut in 1996 when he joined the cast of “General Hospital” as Nikolas Cassadine, the long-lost forgotten first son of Laura Collins (Genie Francis). He quickly became a fan favorite with fans before opting to depart the series in 1999. He reprised the role again beginning in 2003 and remained with the show through 2011. He again returned from 2013-2016. In 2017, Christopher joined “Days of our Lives” as Stefan DiMera. He departed in 2019 and the role when the role was recast with former “General Hospital” co-star Brandon Barash. In less than a year, “General Hospital” has seen the passing of at least five key members, including Sonya Eddy (Epiphany), N’Neka Garland (producer), Jacklyn Zeman (Bobbie Spencer), Billy Miller (Drew Cain) and now Tyler Christopher. Christopher is survived by his two children, son Greysun Baker (born in 2009) and daughter Boheme Baker (born in 2015), both from his previous marriage to former ESPN reporter Brienne Pedigo, his second wife. Christopher’s first marriage was to former “Desperate Housewives” star Eva Longoria (ex-Isabella Braña, “The Young and the Restless”). Note: The post R.I.P. Tyler Christopher – ‘General Hospital’ and ‘Days of our Lives’ Actor Dies at 50 appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

The biggest Halloween celebration on television will be traveling swiftly through the “eras” to bring viewers THE best moments in pop culture that everyone knows, all too well on the Tuesday, October 31 episode of “Live with Kelly and Mark.” Courtesy of WABC-TV Hosted by Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, who will mark (pun intended) their first official Halloween-themed episode as co-hosts, the nationally syndicated daytime talk show will feature fabulous costumes, hilarious skits, music and dancing … but not to worry, there will be no bad blood. (Check the show’s official website for local listings on time and station). According to a press release, fans can look for the 2023 Halloween special to include over 50 elaborate costumes (in style) and celebrity guest cameos, along with the famous annual audience Halloween costume contest, which is back and better than ever. In fact, viewers at home and fans in the “Live” studio audience will both be able to compete for their share of $10,000 in prize money. For a sneak peek at “Live’s Halloween: The Eras Show,” check out the clip below. Fans of the show can also tune in for a special pre-show with radio host Steve Patterson on Instagram Live and TikTok Live, beginning at 8:30 a.m. ET. Since launching its 36th season premiere in September, “Live” has continued to reign as the number one entertainment talk show on television. Last season, the show dominated Total Viewers and the key demos (Women 18-49 and Women 25-54), enjoying the title as the most-watched entertainment talk show currently on television, including late night. During the week of October 9-13, 2023, the most recent week in which ratings data is available for daytime syndicated programming, “Live with Kelly and Mark” scored its strongest week in both Households (1.61 rating) and Total Viewers (2.377 million) since April – since the weeks of 4/24/23 and 4/17/23. “Live” also delivered week-to-week gains across all key Nielsen measures: Households (+7% – 1.61 rating vs. 1.51 rating), Total Viewers (+5% – 2.377 million vs. 2.265 million) and Women 25-54 (+4% – 0.51 rating vs. 0.49 rating). Further, “Live with Kelly and Mark” is the season’s No. 1 entertainment talk show across all key Nielsen measures: Households (1.51 rating), Total Viewers (2.268 million) and Women 25-54 (0.52 rating). Courtesy of WABC-TV “Live with Kelly and Mark” is distributed in national syndication by Disney Entertainment. The show is produced by WABC-TV in New York and executive produced by Michael Gelman and Kelly Ripa. Check local listings for tune information or visit the show’s official website. Note: The post Top Rated ‘Live with Kelly and Mark’ Previews ‘Live’s Halloween: The Eras Show’ Featuring Fun and Games appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

The Tuesday, October 31 episodes of “The Price is Right” and “Let’s Make a Deal” will be a special one when the cast of the former flex their muscles in a pro-wrestling-themed Halloween Heavyweight Showcase Championship! Meanwhile, Wayne Brady and his crew are back and spookier than ever! On “The Price is Right,” join in the fun when host “One Dollar” Drew Carey is clad in a singlet and muscle suit while announcer “Gentleman” George Gray and models Alexis “Gaubestopper” Gaube, “Bad Day Mate” James O’Halloran, along with tag-team duo Manuela “Thunder” Arbelaez and Amber “Lightning” Lancaster, take on wrestling personas, complete with appropriate ring attire – spandex, teased hair, mullets and muscles. George Gray, Alexis Gaube, Drew Carey, Amber Lancaster, Manuela Arbelaez, James O’Halloran (“The Price is Right”) Photo by Adam Torgerson/CBS As always, look for contestants to compete for cash, cars, and luxurious trips, including a trip to Mexico to see masked Luchadores or the Gold Coast of Australia, among other prize items. Tiffany Coyne, Jonathan Mangum (“Let’s Make a Deal”) Photo by Bonnie Osborne/CBS Celebrating 15 years of dealing, fans can look forward to seeing host Wayne Brady welcome an audience full of contestants in their best Halloween garb to a decorated stage straight out of the pumpkin patch. Even the games are dressed in Halloween costumes when contestants play holiday versions of classics like “Smash for Cash,” smashing Frankenstein piggy banks for the chance to win $20,000. They also have a chance to play for luxurious, haunted trips, including ghostly walking tours of Dublin, London & Edinburgh, but always beware of the dreaded Zonk. Check out preview clips of what to expect on the special Halloween-themed episodes of “The Price is Right” and “Let’s Make a Deal” below. The Price is Right Let’s Make a Deal Produced by Fremantle and broadcast weekdays on CBS, “The Price is Right” airs at 11:00 a.m. ET/10:00 a.m. PT. Evelyn Warfel is the executive producer. Meanwhile, check your local listings for when to catch “Let’s Make a Deal,” which is executive-produced by John Quinn. Note: The post CBS Game Shows ‘The Price is Right’ and ‘Let’s Make a Deal’ Celebrate Halloween with Themed Episodes appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

There won't be a digital version of Soap Opera Digest, though. It's done as a weekly magazine. Period. It's now going to be nothing more than a glorified online soap press outlet like Soaps In Depth. Ironically, both websites are now owned by a360media, which clearly sees they can get by with just an online website that makes boatloads of cash at a reduced overhead vs. a costly print magazine where they have to pay a vendor to ship to a pitiful amount of subscribers only to hear complaints that they didn't get their latest issue either on time or at all. In fact, I've received complaints and have to remind myself SON isn't a print magazine.

After nearly 50 years in print, Soap Opera Digest will discontinue its weekly edition, the publication’s owner, a360media, announced in a statement released late Friday, October 27, to Variety shortly after staffers were informed of the company’s decision. A representative told the outlet, “Soap Opera Digest, like many other brands, is adjusting its print frequency and shifting more resources to digital to better accommodate its audience.” According to Variety, the magazine will continue publishing special print issues at least four times a year going forward. No formal announcement on when the magazine will print its final weekly issue, nor if any staff reductions have been made behind the scenes. Courtesy of a360media On Monday, October 30, the magazine’s website elaborated on the situation, saying, “We wanted to let you, our loyal readers, know that Soap Opera Digest will be publishing at a reduced frequency moving forward — but we also wanted to assure you that much of the content you’ve come to love in our print edition, including breaking news, exclusive story previews and interviews with your favorite stars, will continue to be available to you online. Please keep following us on social media and at soapoperadigest.com, and thank you for your decades of support!” Launched in 1975 by founders Angela Shapiro and Jerome Shapiro, Soap Opera Digest had a paid and verified circulation of just 43,743 as of June 30, 2023, according to the Alliance for Audited Media (AAM), the “recognized leader in publisher audits across digital, print and out-of-home channels.” By comparison, throughout the 1990s, the magazine had a circulation in excess of one million. By 2010, the number had dropped to just under 500,000 and under 100,000 by 2019. Out of the 195 publications audited by AAM, there were 30 publications that had not shared their publisher statements. That said, Digest ranked 154th out of 165 publications that did release their figures, only beating out the likes of Elle Quebec, Conquer Magazine, Diabetes Care, Vero and Les Affaires Plus, among others, in terms of circulation totals. The top 35 selling magazines with a circulation in excess of one million included the likes of People, Reader’s Digest, Good Housekeeping, Us Weekly, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Time, New Yorker, Sports Illustrated, National Geographic, Men’s Health, Women’s Health and even Elle, among others. In April 2020, Bauer Media, now owned by a360media, shuttered the print editions of Soaps In Depth, which released weekly issues as either ABC Soaps In Depth or CBS Soaps In Depth. The brand’s name continues as a digital website sharing news and interviews with stars from the four remaining American soap operas – “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “Days of our Lives,” “General Hospital” and “The Young and the Restless.” Following the aforementioned statement on its website, Soap Opera Digest has since removed the tab allowing individuals to subscribe to the magazine. Note: The post a360media Discontinues Weekly Print Edition of Soap Opera Digest, Shifting Resources to Digital appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website. Read More

Where does it say they will continue as a digital only magazine?