Watching that episode again (I think I saw it on there years ago) reminds me of the struggle Marland had with his initial plans for Holden (a manipulative, dark character) and what he made Holden once the character became so popular (angstily in wuv with Lily). There was always an uneasy mix as Marland would come up with various reasons to show Holden's harder side (his marriage to Emily, his marriage to Angel, eventually his brain damage), yet also keep the softer elements. As I don't think Jon Hensley was quite able to pull it off, Holden often just came across as a sanctimonious prick to me, with some good moments here and there (Hensley was good in the story where Lily lost their baby).
Meanwhile, Jennifer Ashe always tends to overplay bitch Meg a little too much; she suited the more layered writing Marland gave her in her last year or two. With that said, I did enjoy her coolly deflecting Lily spitting venom at her. The nasty Lily is always the more entertaining one.
Finn Carter is so good in the scene where Sierra stands up to Tonio. She was such a subtle, thoughtful actress and she made Sierra's transition into being a stronger character feel so real. She was one of the most unique actresses ATWT ever had, and I think this was probably the one era of the show she could have thrived in (maybe the '70s as well).
My heart always swells when I see the sunrise clip telling us a new day has started in Oakdale. It brings back so many memories.
Poor Iva.
(I have that last one on a macro)