Brent

Dear Jon:

Thank you so much for your gracious reply. I must admit I was hesitant about commenting on "SS" since I sensed it is so out of touch with today's daytime serials, not to mention that I know nothing about most of the modern programs emphasized on this site. Felt like a fish out of water, but the young people on this site have been so gratifying in their interest.

And you are certainly a font of knowledge!!!

Thanks also for the info on "Karen Clemens". I felt that she was almost certainly Belle's younger sister, but remained un-positive, since, although she was heavily featured in the Belle's return/Robin plot line, she was shortly thereafer written out of the show. I can see her very clearly in my mind's eye right now--I would say that she wasn't much above 23 or so. Incidentally, it was she who was featured in the drowning sequence, diving in to save Robin. Wouldn't it be wild if that location footage still existed somewhere?

In that connection, is your friend's Joan Crawford episode a black and white kinescope or color from original video master? Although many video masters were "wiped" some were saved I am told.

Joan wasn't bad. I already knew her work, and was a huge movie buff as a kid. If she had seemed way off, I would have yelled: "Hey mom come into the living room to see "Secret Storm"--Joan Crawford's bombing!"

Incidentally, before each of her appearances, the announcer, would say, :"Ladies and Gentleman, the producers of the "Secret Storm" take great pleasure in announcing that the role of Joan Kane will today be played by Miss Joan Crawford."

As to the black and white vs. color I'm with you. Although the other soaps had re-painted their sets, perhaps SS didn't. I do remember the hullabaloo surrounding the conversion of "As the World Turns" since a great deal was made of their move to the big, new CBS center production studio. The premiere in color, or an early episode in color, was Patricia Bruder's outdoor wedding, which was done with a huge cast and an enormous cyclorama. CBS made quite a thing of that!

But SS worked better in color. For me, its strongest mise en scene would be about 1964 in Marjorie Gateson's living room. Your observation about the films of the 30's and 40's is relevant, and the "feel" and look was almost that of a Kay Frances film. One wouldn't have been surprised to see Constance Collier drop by. SS was far advanced beyond the early 50's episodes that have been posted on You Tube by this time, (was it still originating from Leidercrantz Hall by the 60?). In any case, there were better, more spacious sets.

The reason in my view that the serials were so much stronger then, is fairly simple--they originated in New York City and were heavily populated with theater people. The acting was excellent even when the scripts weren't since the players brought a level of committment to the material that would be rare today.

And where would you find performers like that now--like Lester Rawlins, whose cultured speaking voice, honed on Shakespeare became so famous on the Benson and Hedges commercial.

And thanks so much for that wonderful promo of "The Best of Everything"--it's a real kick in the head that takes me back. Can you believe I remember that show when I only watched it 3 months 40 years ago? And now, I can't remember things from last week.

Again my thanks,

All Best,

BU

Brent, you and I are fairly the same age, and I cannot express how delightful it is to read your shared recollections. I seldom post regarding The Secret Storm as few remember the serial or seem at all interested in it. I apologize in advance, as my response will ramble a bit.

To answer your question, the younger blonde with Belle and Charlie was Belle's younger sister Karen Clemons. Actress Beverly Hayes portrayed Karen. Jeffrey Lynn, who played Charlie, briefly replaced Forrest Compton as Mike Karr on The Edge of Night a few years later when Compton fell ill.

Your descriptions of Secret Storm were exacting. Storm was indeed a dark, moody serial, with an upper crust flavor contrasting the middle class environs of most serials from the 60's era. You mentioned the smart clothing of the women and the superb diction of the actors. These are elements woefully missing from today's serial drama. In many ways, Storm's settings and costumes reminded me of the ladies melodramas of the 40's. There was an elegance and intelligence in the proceedings one did not necessarily find on other programs, which were more "homey" in my estimation. In those days, a viewer never would have tuned into The Secret Storm and thought it was As the World Turns or The Guiding Light. Each serial drama was unique in tone and presentation.

As you reminded us, The Secret Storm was deadly serious. It was true drama. I believe it possessed the best confrontations on daytime television. Characters were constantly at odds with another, as well as their own emotions, and whereas many characters on other programs suffered quietly, nobly, the emotions on Secret Storm bubbled to the surface daily.

The success of Storm was due to its creator/owner Roy Winsor. I interviewed Winsor back in the 80's shortly before his death, and he spoke so eloquently of The Secret Storm. He had a clearly defined concept of what the program was, and as long as the writers and directors didn't stray from that concept, the program thrived. We see this today. So many fine programs have gone to pot when networks and sponsors gain control and destroy the creative vision.

Interestingly, Belle had been slated to die originally. She was a short run character, but Marla Adams played the part so beautifully, icily, that Belle was saved and the part expanded. Someone else mentioned the transition to color. Personally, I didn't care for it. There were a few serials (Storm, Edge, and Dark Shadows) which worked best in my opinion due to their dark tone. The transition to color really signaled the beginning of the end for The Secret Storm. According to Winsor, CBS became more demanding in 1968. The network wanted color and fancier sets and a brighter look for the show. The loss of Winsor and director Gloria Monty cannot be underestimated. Storm had always been a realistic serial. It was about people and emotions. Beginning with Winsor's departure, the stories became sillier: evil twins, spouses returning from the dead, impostors, amnesia, paralysis, mobsters, etc. The more lurid the writing, the worse the ratings became. I recall my grandmother being quite upset with the artificial insemination plot between Amy, Kevin, and Brian Neeves. She felt it damaged the integrity of Amy's character. She stopped watching altogether when an argument between Father Mark Reddin and his sleazy brother Stace resulted in their mother Jesse being impaled on a pitchfork and dying in the barn.

Joan Crawford: at least one episode does exist. I know a collector who has a copy, and I have seen it. Joan was clearly nervous and out of her element in live drama; however, she was professional and not the embarrassing drunk as has been described in books and films.

Jon

This thread is awesome.I have some SS material that I will share in the coming days.

By the way,Carl,you are confusing Keith Charles with Larry Keith.

Interestingly,Keith Charles returned to SS after his role as Nick to play Brian Neeves late in the shows run. He was one of the actors who played the most roles on soaps.

In addition to SS's RB Keefer,there was a hippie pusher on "Best of Everything" named Squirrel and played by Gregory Rosakis. During the summer of 72, Vanessa Sterling on LofL had a female teenage ward drug addict connected with the hippie world. That's all I know of.

BU

Final "Secret Storm" recollections.

Now a "Secret Storm" wrap up. First to answer a few questions. I don't remember much about Robin Strasser other than she was on "Another World" which I did not watch. Her part on SS escapes me now. Sorry.

Nor do I remember SS's switch to color in March '69 as we did not get our first color set until later in that same year, by which point the transition had already been effected. I do remember the color switch for most of the other CBS soaps--"Love of Life" and "As the World Turns" switched in the summer of 67, maybe 68--but definately summer. I know because the "Love of Life" plot was then heavy on the "Tess" storyline--and the switch to color got a lot of publicity. I was on summer vacation and "Love of Life" played at something like 12:30--right after Douglas Edwards and the News. Speaking of pretty women, like Marla Adams--Audrey Peters was very pretty in those days. Don't know why "SS" waited...?

After Robin's drowning, Belle directed all her venom at Amy. Although she was unable to make stick any reckless neglect charges in the incident, the whole episode weighed heavily on Amy's psyche. There were other issues for Amy as well such as to whether Paul would return to her life.

Back to Amy in a bit...

Susan Dunbar had by this time received word that her husband was MIA and presumed dead. About this time, a handsome, flamboyant young newsaper reporter named Frank Carver, (Laurence Luckenbill) arrived in Woodbridge to accept a position with Charlie Clemens newspaper.

Frank was in the middle of a split with his wife, Mary Lou Carver that was VERY acrimonious. Mary Lou was a blonde southern belle--the daughter of a Governor, but of what state I know not. Anyhow, she had quite a sting in her tail--and I remember many of her scenes ended with her slamming down the telephone receiver. Can't recall how she ended up leaving Woodbridge.

During Frank's split with Mary Lou, he and Susan fell and love and eventually, with Mary Lou out of the picture, they married.

By 1969 Amy's nerves were completely shot. One day, Susan came to visit, wearing her kilt and yellow long sleeved ribbed turtle neck sweater with a very long strand of beads, (as were then in fashion). Amy was transfixed by the beads, fingered them, and repeatedly asked Susan to bring them back. Alone in her room, she began talking to a doll in the evenings. Needless to say, all were concerned.

One rainy night Amy fled Woodbridge on a whim and boarded a bus headed out of state. On board, was a real character--Irene Sims, (Jennifer Darling) a petite, fast talking doxie who managed to ingratiate herself with Amy, as well as appropriate inside information regarding the Ames family.

When Amy was returned home by her family, (who managed to locate her) she told no one about Irene. Late one night, Amy was awakened from sleep by laughing in her bedroom. Amy arose from her bed and explored the room, but no one was in evidence--still the laughing continued--now taking on an unbalanced tone. Eventually, Amy sensed that the laughing was coming from inside her closet. Slowly she tiptoed to the closet, and gingerly pulled back the sliding louver--and there inside her closet sat Irene Sims laughing maniacally at Amy with a hellish gleam in her eyes!

Amy was justifiably alarmed, but no one could find any trace of this woman. A nightmare--it turned out to be--a recurring dream, and everytime I heard that creepy laughter coming from the closet and saw Irene situated in the dark behind the closet door in the dead of night it put me in a panic!

Around this time, it was announced with some fanfare that screen Romeo Troy Donahue was to join the cast of the "Secret Storm". Mr. Donahue's screen popularity was slipping and SS offered him an opportunity to interpret a role unlike any he had played in the movies--hippie criminal R.B. Keefer.

For this part, Mr. Donahue had long hair, a mustache and goatee--light years from "A Summer Place."

Although I don't recall how they were connected, it was Irene Sims, who brought R.B Keefer to Woodbridge and his first day on the show saw Irene meet Keefer in a bar where they began to confer on their plot.

Wish I could recall the details of their scheme, but at any rate it was directed at the Ames family.

Meantime, Valerie Ames brought in pychiatrist Ian Northcote on Amy's case. Dr. Northcote was a white haired, bearded man with a pipe, (you know the type--very Academic looking.) He and Valerie fell in love.

There was only one major problem, Ian had an identical twin who was pretty close to the devil incarnate, (yes this was far out!)

This Ian/Owen thing became very intense. It could never have been done when the show was live since they used an ingenious split screen technique that was absolutely brilliant. How they did it on video tape I don't know but they did...

Anyhow, Owen somehow became entangled with R.B. Keefer, (birds of a feather) and one day decided to do him in.

For this, SS somewhat replicated "Psycho" and as Mr. Donahue showered, (and sang) in his slum apartment Owen slipped in and stabbed him to death.

Donahue later told the press that the real reason he was murdered was because he couldn't carry a tune.

Owen, himself, was later killed paving the way for Ian and Val's happiness, (Miss March's real life husband, Alexander Scourby would later inherit the role).

About a year before this an intriguing neurotic pianist named Laurie had been introduced to the show. She was at least semi-psychotic and played the same scherzo over and over.

However, SS now changed the writing staff and a new completely normal, softer, Laurie, (Stephanie Braxton) took her place.

Also, Alan Dunbar, (now played by Liam Sullivan) returned to plane to Woodbridge in February 1971, suffering I think, from Amnesia.

Joel Croather's of Dark Shadows joined the cast as Ken Stephens and was romantically paired with Barbara Rodell, (late of Another World).

Around this time, SS was transmogrified into something quite unlike it's original self. Like a food product that has the same brand name, but a completely different flavor.

Amy was replaced for a while by Lynne Adams of GL, and then Jada Rowland came back. Amy herself was now hippified with long hair, and floor length paisley and floral peasant dresses. She became involved with the Kincaid character, (Kevin Kincaid) and they moved into a coverted barn. After he fell down the steps he was confined to a wheel chair and also suffered infertility.

This ushered in endless discussions of "artificial insemination". Simultaneously, the new Laurie became involved with a priest, Fr. Mark Reddin and the two began having an affair.

Belle was still around but now she was married to a senator.

SS had now abandoned the tight focus on the Ames family and was trying desparately to be "hep." It ended up merely being distasteful.

The original fans, (I knew elderly women who were die hard fans) were disaffected and confused by all this, and began to leave the show.

So did I. They were trying to dish us a product we had not purchased.

I hope these scattered memories help throw some light on the show and wish you the best in rounding up additional information from others in the future.

Incidentally, there is an old TV Guide on E-bay this week, (with ironically a very young pre-"Best of Everything" Patty McCormack on the cover) that features an article on SS. It's under Patty McCormack.

All best,

BU

I hope you're right. I do think you are, because when I was looking for some promos yesterday I found two GL clips I had never seen before, they were on the CBS Youtube, they were of the final black and white scenes and an early color scene.

So what did you think of Joan's daughter? And did you recognize Margaret Hamilton when you were watching Secret Storm at the time, or only later on did you put together that it was her?

I agree with you about Joan. Her acting style was suited to daytime soaps of that era, and Faye played her as doing a decent job in Mommy Dearest.

"Secret Storm" Addendum

Thanks to all of you for you kind remarks. Although I haven't much time at the moment I will try to memorialize some more SS material for you.

But first let me answer your questions. No I havnen't visited the Paley Center, (though when I am next in Manhatten I should attempt to do so) which leads me into my next point.

All of you have the gift of youth and an interest in preserving our daytime serial broacast history. Let your voices be heard! Write Proctor and Gamble and ask them to make copies of their "Edge of Night" archive available to the Museum of Broadcasting in New York. Write the staff of these shows--Roy Winsor's family, producers, writers, many of whom are still active as the Internet Movie Database indicates. Contact the performers--Jada Rowland who is now an artist, Judy Lewis who wrote her bio a number of years ago, Mr. Luckenbill, etc, etc,

For example, someone posted that Patty McCormack had very fond memories of "Best of Everything." Well rather than speculate about what they were, contact her, and ask her to share them.

Despite its role in social and intellectual decline, the Internet has increased connectiviy, and ease in making such connections. The Museum of Broadcasting should also be contacted. What kind of efforts are they making to acquire this material? After all, they are there to serve the public and scholars.

For example, I read several years back that the producer of "Never Too Young" an ABC soap, had kinescopes of every episode at his home! Well if no one does anything how will they see them?

Persistence, and numbers--you know--if enough people ask--if enough people show a genuine interest. Who knows--someone associated with Storm or Best of E, etc. might even have a original video master of a few of the shows.

Now to a few more SS memories.

Yes, I immediately recognized Margaret Hamilton on the show. I am a "Wizard of Oz" nut and probably would have recognized her on a crowded subway!

Don't remember where I left off the other day but I believe it was about Amy. Jada Rowland played Amy and among the younger players--she was the show's focal point--which is to say she was the young adult principal in the cast.

Amy was a delicate, elfin woman, and Jada Rowland was a very good actress.

Amy was sensitive and intelligent but also vulnerable. Though she was never portrayed as a wanton, she, nonetheless compromised herself with handsome English professor, Paul Brittan, whom she met at the local University.

She ended up "in trouble" and Paul did the honorable thing in marrying her. They had a little girl named Lisa. Their relationship was threatened by the fact that Amy was still in love with Kip Rysdale, whom she had been dating, and Paul was weak in the face of temptation.

I don't recall that there was any question of Lisa's paternity, since Amy's relationship with Kip had been on the up and up.

Ultimately, Paul and Amy's marriage seemed a success until late 1967 when Belle Clemens (Marla Adams) entered the picture. Marla Adams was stunning to look at and her "Belle" quite literally became the talk of the town. Again a very Nordic type--a cool blonde with blazing, deep set blue eyes, and very symmetrical features. A real looker!

Belle was the daughter of Charlie Clemens (played by ex 40's movie star Jeffrey Lynn--SS was getting a lot of big ex movie names and that time, and I can remember Joan Crawford and Mr. Clemens being photographed together on the set, since they had both been under contract to Warner Bros at the same time).

An interruption here, lest I forget to answer someone's question--I both saw Christina and Joan Crawford on Storm. Christina played Joan Borman, a malcontented, lower class woman who was married to Keith Charles, whom I believe was in the cast of Broadway's "The Fantasticks".

For her part, let me assure you Joan Crawford was fine! They may have had to cover for her with some tape editings, but believe me the Crawford you saw on screen was in full control of her material--very professional. There were similar alchohol issues with her appearance on "The Lucy Show" and her film, "Berserk," but after some early misbehavior, in both cases she pulled herself up by her bootstraps and delivered authorative portrayals. I do think, the serial format probably scared her, but that's natural when you are over sixty and have never done it before--particulary the speed with which she had to learn new daily scripts for her six day run on the show. To be fair to her, I think many of us would have been intimidated by that.

Now back to the plot...

Charlie Clemens was the publisher of the rival newspaper to the Rysedale "Woodbridge Clarion" and Belle returned to his home to live in late 1967. There was also another young blonde woman living with Charlie at that time. In real life, this actresses' first name was Beverly, but I can't recall her name on the show. I think she was Belle's younger sister, but she may have been a cousin etc. Sorry, memory fades here.

Most important, Belle brought her young daughter Robin. I don't remember whether Belle was a widow or a divorcee when she returned to her father's home in Woodbridge. Robin was about 11 with long dark hair she always wore pulled back in a headband. Moreover, Robin was a special needs child. If her specific condition was ever mentioned I don't recall, but though she didn't appear retarded in of the usual clinical senses, she was troubled, distant, vague and possibly autistic, (perhaps owing to an irregular childhood).

Not long after she arrived in Woodbridge, Belle managed to insinuate herself into Woodbridge society, and was invited to dinner at the home of Valerie Hill Ames, (who had this time been widowed--Peter having died in a plane crash). Paul and Amy were also there that night, and after dinner that night, over coffee and cognac, Belle set her sites on Paul Brittain.

Soon they were having an affair and the huge new conflict of the show was Belle vs. Amy. This was an interesting rivalry since Belle was not your cardboard villainous. She herself was emotionally wounded, and this made her especially fascinating.

Amy lost that round, however, and Paul left Amy to marry Belle, so Belle became Belle Brittain.

Have to fly now, so remind me next time to tell you about Mary Lou Carver, Frank Carver, who became involved with Susan Carver, R.B. Keefer, and Irene Sims, plus Amy's descent into madness.

Another startling scene to leave you with:

Memorial Day 1968--Secret Storm finale.

This is a big remote outdoor location scene shot on film. It's a marina, with boat tied to dock's, a boardwalk, and a lake, river and/or swimming pool in which bathers are taking advantage of the holiday.

Amy and Belle's younger sister or cousin, have brought little Robin out to enjoy the holiday on the water, with a picnic lunch etc.

Whilst Amy etc. are distracted by the preparations for lunch, little Robin, (who can't swim) has wondered out onto the dock, where not knowing how deep it is and thinking she would like to try the water, jumps off the pier.

Whithin a few minutes she is in deep trouble flailing around but unable to call for help. Exhausted she eventually begins to be submerged.

Suddenly Amy notices Robin's absence as do others on pier. Amy dives in and begins a rescue effort, along with by standers. Everyone is swimming under to find Robin but to no avail.

As the organ begins to begin a series of mournful stings, the closing fade out shot is of Robin's little sailor cap bobbing on top of the water.

So unlike these unfortunates, I wish each of you a very safe Memorial Day holiday.

All Best,

BU

Thanks very much for the links. I greatly enjoyed the color promos you linked--they are from the original video masters and not kinescopes. Although it's just a snippet at least you get to see Val and Belle in a tense scene in a tiny corner of Belle's living room. Perhaps you can freeze frame it to get a good look.

Yes, I was watching when they began phasing out the Ames. When I have some more time, I will weigh in with the rest of what I can say about the show.

And take good cheer! You are very young and I feel certain that kinescopes of SS will continue to emerge in years to come. Although they always deny it, "no episodes of Joan Crawford are known to exist" they in fact do. In case, I forget to say so later, Miss Crawford seemed fine in her shows--someone has an axe to grind in saying otherwise--a convenient enough charge to make, since they know the shows aren't extant right now to disprove them.

Roy Winsor's estate as well as the production staff are bound to have kinescopes. Likewise scattered TV stations who used them when the show had been pre-empted and was telecast later.

Laurence Luckenbill once told the NYT's that he was saving episodes that contained his best work to show to his children and grandchildren.

CBS has never publicized it but they have managed to cough up shows when it behooved them. For instance when "Search for Tomorrow" went off in 86, the final show was crammed with clips. In the late 70's a soap opera special hosted by Bert Convy, had clips from 1963 of Convy's stint on "Love of Life" So don't give up hope.

Although like many of the new technologies, the Internet has mainly hastened the cultural meltdown and promoted the spread of techno-zombies, technology has improved some things, and although You Tube is 98% mind wasting garbage, the kinescopes on there of the early serials are a real boon to young peope like yourself who are above the rest of your generation in your discernment and taste.

You may also be interested in seeking out photographic stills. These offer great visual detail of the players, clothes, sets etc. Fortunately, there are quite a few stills out there. And finally, I have it on excellent authority, that a very early Marjorie Gateson episode (say 1955) is out there, as this person was shown it only about 2 years ago--so I suspect there are still some pleasant "Secret Storm" experiences in your future.

Enjoy your holiday weekend.

BU

Thanks so much for letting us know about these classic scenes and characters.

This is just priceless, these are real memories, not something which has been done and dusted in various soap summary books. The way you describe Secret Storm sounds very complex and yet also very easy for a viewer to get into, as it sounds like they took pains to make the characters relateable, even with the expensive hair and the wardrobe. The stuff about Marjorie Gateson and her maid, and then the unbalanced woman Brooke, I can see all that in my mind.

Did you see Amy as an important part of the show? I know that her struggles, like having a child with an older man, took up a lot of story time.

Were you still watching when they began killing off or writing out most of the Ames family?

You might be interested in this, it's a few episodes, one from 1960 and one from 1955.

http://www.archive.org/details/Secret_1960

http://www.archive.org/details/TheSecretStorm

I am a new member, and in an earlier post on the defunct, "Best of Everything," I mentioned that I had also watched "Secret Storm" as a youngster during my grammer school years. It's neat to see such young people expressing what I hope is a genuine interest in the program, (and rather surprising for me--as I have a nephew who's 20). In any case, Carl and Amello both very kindly requested further dope on the show, and at the risk of dating myself, (I'm 53) I will be happy to oblige. This is off the cuff, stream of memory posting rather than an in depth plot synopsis, which I would be, in any case, unable to completely supply, and which I believe has been documented in several books available at the public library.

"Secret Storm" aired in the late afternoon, and, thus, like the "Edge of Night" was comparatively easy to see after returning home from school. (depending on any number of other factors, such as haircuts, dental appts. etc)--my point being, that in those pre-VCR days, there was no such thing as "time-shifting" so that what you missed--you missed! Nor, were there newspaper soap synopsis, which are common in the TV pages of many daily's today.

I suppose, the best place to begin is the line up of players as I recall them, which I am sure, will leave out many worthy people--but the ones that really stuck in this then kids' impressions.

Marjorie Gateson, a veteran of stage and screen, who looked like a rather more aristocratic version of movie actress Helen Twelvetrees, (who was before my time!--but you can research her and get photos on the WEB) was I would say "the star" in terms of her centrality, when I began seeing it in the mid 60's. Those of you reading this, can "see" Marjorie Gateson via Cable TV or home video, as she appeared in many films of the 30's and 40's in roles that somewhat anticipated her performance as "Grace Tyrrel" on "Secret Storm", (hereinafter SS). She was in fact, the genteel, grande dame, of a type no longer in existence in our "popular culture" as they say.

By way of a side bar, (and I say this in reference to Carl's kind reference to the Guiding Light clips, which I watched and brought back many memories--Lynne Adams, and Fran Myers, (who always specialized in these neurotic scenes)GL was very much of a middle class show, that is, the Bauers, with Old World Papa, hard drinking, (and despite the necktie, blue-collerish Ed)--strong medical/hospital tie ins, department store furniture, and with women in the cast that looked like women in one's own neighborhood--not, (at least in the 60's--it changed later I'm told) a glamourous show.

SS was not that way. Its tone or flavor if you prefer, was altogether upper crust, its fictional setting, "Woodbridge" would have been more like Westchester, Ct--well heeled matrons with sucessfull husbands, comparatively chic settings, with antiques etc. Not that there weren't characters from lower rank-there were, I'm just referring to the tone.

Which leads me back to Miss Gateson (Grace Tyrrel), who was the heiress and controller of Tyrell's Department Store. Grace led a gracious life, and had the kind of flawless diction what doesn't hear anymore. Her maid was none other than Margaret Hamilton, (yes the Wicked Witch of the West) who would do SS during the day when she was appearing at night on the Broadway stage, (very common at the time for daytime actors to be on stage at night--how did they ever learn their lines!!!)

I can see, Grace Tyrrell in one of her expensive dark suits, or "daytime dresses" trying to reason with her willful daughter--Pauline as they both sat before the silver tea service with Margaret Hamilton serving in full maid's uniform (the movie buffs amongst you may know that M. Hamilton frequently played domestics on screen and stage).

The "Woodbridge" context then, was of a conservative town, where "quiet" wealth counted, and reputations mattered. Today it would be called snobbish.

Now, in Pauline, the ever hand wringing, (or should I say handkerchief wringing since women still carried embroidered handkerchiefs) Grace--had a tigress by the tail.

And not really by the tail, since Pauline almost always had her own way! By the time I watched Pauline, (played by Haila Stoddard--one of the really formidable stage actresses of the 20th century--in the original cast of "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf"--she also moonlighted)Pauline was married to Arthur Rysdale, who was the publisher of "The Wooodbridge Clarion" the town's leading newspaper.

Pauline, (very nordic, blonde, and stylish with an almost little girlish voice that concealed a real schemer--think of sort of a blonde Tallulah Bankhead type) was always "up to something". And it was hard to imagine her as Grace's daughter--since Grace was so virtuous (rebellion I suppose).

In the mid 60's, Pauline's son Kip Rysedale, was very much front and center, and involved with several of the women in the cast, all of whom were vying for him. Nice looking, in an earnest, polite way, Kip loved Amy Ames, and Janet Hill (Bibi Besch) simultaneously, before he was written out, by being called up to military service, in Germany, and later Vietnam, (though he wanted to be a doctor). Kip was the object of much attention during the 1964-1966 time span and was on very frequently. He is also, of a type, I think a vanished breed today, well bred, well spoken, well coiffed, and in a neck tie usually--and very young--say 25 or so.

Bibi Besch, played Janet Hill, and I can't remember exactly how she came into the cast, but she was very much a trouble maker and was married to a man named Bob Hill, whom I remember, but not too much about. She was related to Valerie Hill, (more on her later) who married Peter Ames.

Sorry this is so disorganized--rather stream of consciousness, but bear with me.

Peter Ames, had of course, been at the very beginning of the show, some ten years before I joined it. As you may know, he was a widower, with two children Jerry and Amy Ames.

By the time I was SS, Peter Ames was played by Ward Costello. Peter had a VERY troubled history with Pauline, which was still very rough in the mid 60s, and included hostility to Valerie Hill, (because Peter loved her and not Pauline.

His children, Jerry, Susan and Amy were continuing focal points, (particularly Amy) for nearly 20 years.

Valerie Hill, (played by Lori March) is probably the woman I most associate with SS during the period I watched. She came on about the time I started to watch, and was on when I stopped, (Marjorie Gateson had a stroke in 68 and never came back). At that time, (no longer I believe) the CBS serials had a heroine, usually a woman in early middle age, who was attractive, and a paragon of virtue. At that time, (and in order to distance her from the schemers and vixens) the heroine embodied honor, nobility and chastity. She was the woman, the female viewers viewed as "their sister" and with whom they would commisserate with.

Lori March was SS's heroine in the second half of the 60's. Her speaking voice was creme de la creme--she was "finishing school" material, and so it was, perfectly natural, that long widowed Peter Ames would marry her, which he did, (and I can remember the wedding with her little pillbox hat and veil). Jerry and Amy took to Valerie, though Susan had reservations.

Now to Peter's children.

Jerry was an amiable young man in the second half of the 60's--I remember his presence, but nothing very particular. His sister's however, now that's a different story.

Susan Ames, (Dunbar--married to Allan Dunbar when I watched) was a complicated woman. The role was played by Judy Lewis during my days as a viewer. Miss Lewis was the daughter of screen super star Loretta Young. Though supposedly adopted, I always felt that Miss Lewis looked much like her famous Mom, and it has since been suggested that she was in fact really her natural daughter.

Susan was a fascinating lady, deep, ruminative, attractive, but very reserved and not quick to shower affection on Valerie or anyone else. When I started the show, she was married to Allan Dunbar, (can't remember who played him first--sorry) who had a drinking problem. I remember Allan pouring liquor from cut glass decanters in the middle of the day--he also got sent to Vietnamn--and was declared dead--which lead the way to Susan and Frank Carver, (Laurence Luckenbill). She had a little blonde son, named after her father and called "Petie" who was featured quite often.

Am going to have to run off in a minute--getting a bit exhausted as it heads toward 1:00 a.m. here--will have to pick up on more later--we'll get to Amy(Jada Rowland), Belle (!) (played by beautiful Marla Adams), Joan Crawford, Belle's daughter Robin, movie star Troy Donahue, (yes he was on as a villain--and what an end he met).

SS was moody, really moody and that's not a cliche--it was serious--and didn't pander too much to an audience craving stupidity. Scenes were intense and the acting was good. The sets were evocative and I remember details of the homes, (Valerie's particularly) since I was interested in set design at that time. And every living room had a stocked bar, with a loaded ice bucket and tongs! for mid afternoon "jolts". I once asked my mother why our liquor wasn't out, and "ready always" like it was in Woodbridge.

And the clothes. The feminine viewers must have had a field day at the elegant wardbrobes, (women didn't wear slacks then--jewelry, heels, the works--every day. So noted were the clothes on SS, that the New York Times wrote a feature article in 1964, on the kinds of dresses sported by the different generations of players, (Grace, Valerie, Pauline, Susan, and Amy were all photographed for it)--sometimes the actresses liked them so much they bought them for themselves).

I have several stark memories, one of which I'll close with.

October 1966--A character by the name of Brooke Ames is causing major trouble. Brooke is a villainous par excellence and she really has it in for Valerie. Can't remember her origins or what her particular plot motivations were. But one scene I'll never forget.

Brooke, (a very expensive looking model type with Scavullo style lips and hair in a tight chignon) takes a pair of scissors out of the drawer, and stabs her hand. As she wraps her bleeding finger, she phones Valerie.

I can still remember parts of the dialogue: "Valerie, can you come over--I've just cut myself pruning some roses and I haven't an antiseptic in the house" She smiles in tight close up as Val agrees to come and she hangs up the phone.

Valerie arrives and moments later the confrontation with Val that Brooke wanted ensues.

Brooke spews all her venom at Valerie, at which Valerie says, "Brooke you haven't a sparkle of honesty in you".

At this, Brooke picks up a letter opener from the desk and tries to stab Val. In the struggle between the two women that follows, Valerie accidentally stabs Brooke who falls to the floor dead.

"Brooke, Brooke...Oh Dear Heaven" Val turns to survey the dissaray the fight has created, cups her hand to her mouth and flees...the organist really had a job on his hand that days, as the throbbing chords punctuated Val's flight.

No less than famous British writer Alec Waugh, (brother of Evelyn, "Brideshead Revisited" Waugh) wrote an article in the "National Review" about his addiction to "Secret Storm" at this time, and how he dreaded leaving the US to return to England since he would have to miss it, and his friends would have to keep him up on the plot on transatlantic telephone calls. It had an appeal to intellectuals.

Don't know whether this disorganized rant has been any help. Hope so. And please excuse typos as I was rushing.

All best,

BU

I'm only speaking for myself, but I would LOVE to hear more about Secret Storm. This being a show which is not contemporary makes me more interested, because that means the show exists more in the memory and your memories help create memories for others who never saw the show. I also feel that the original theme of Secret Storm, the Ames family and their struggles to come to grips with the mother's death, the schemes of her sister, etc. is something which is very brave. And a lot of the stuff which soaps covered back then is probably more fitting to modern times than most of what you get on today's soaps, which is brain dead 20 year olds.

Allright--I'll go ahead and put what I can under "Secret Storm" in a new thread. Hope it won't fall on "deaf eyes"

Best,

BU

I'd love to hear anything about those soaps, especially Lisa's mother, as I've always wondered about her (I've just seen her in one or two photos). Or anything about characters like Penny, Jeff, Neil Wade, or anyone on ATWT in the 60s. I was also wondering if you had any thoughts on the main GL characters of that era, like the Bauers, Robin, Peggy. Did you get to see Edge during the time they brought Nicole in? That story where two women were stalking her and one accidentally killed the other is one I wanted to see. You've seen the EON page right?

http://lavender.fortunecity.com/casino/403/

Here's a Secret Storm episode from 1966:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJ7A5Sc0Pnc

There are some GL episodes from the 60s on Youtube, have you ever watched those? Here are some links to some clips:

http://glmemories.blogspot.com/2007/01/shadows-of-past.html

http://glmemories.blogspot.com/2008/09/love-and-anger.html

http://glmemories.blogspot.com/2008/02/in-balance.html

Again thanks so much for the clips.

In looking at this site, though, and both the youth of the members, and the contemporary thrust of the shows' most focused on here, I wonder if my recollections of "The Secret Storm" from 1964 through 1972 would really hold much interest?, since the emphasis (even in the cancelled soaps section seems to be on programs of the 80's and 90's--with the exception of "Dark Shadows"). I rather fear, "Secret Storm" would seem pre-historic, and perhaps worse, not even remembered by those visiting the site. All Best,

BU

Thank you for the links. I will try to drum up some memories and respond at greater length within a few days. Did see the intro of Nicole on Edge. Her father was a loan shark and once soaked a van with gasoline and set it ablaze! Summer of 68. In the sixties before they adopted the light house opening logo, GL just opened with a tight close up of one of the characters. More later.

Best,

BU

I'd definitely be interested in anything you have to say about the soaps you watched. I think a number of people here would. I'd love to see some of that era, so watching it at the time, when the soaps were stronger and had individual identities, it must have been something.

Which ones did you watch? Did they all have organ music then or had they moved on by that time?

I've heard about how awful the Secret Storm became and that only the story about the priest had some interest near the end. Were you annoyed about how they destroyed the Ames family?

Well in fact, being a Roman Catholic, it was the priest plot line that offended me. But it was much worse than just that. "SS" was the best--intelligent, gripping and well written. Organ was used on all the CBS soaps then--how evocative it was!!! Scenes were lengthy--usually only 3 set ups to a half hour show--even after video tape in 1967, programs were done straight through--none of those ludicrous 2 minute sketches, that a friend of mine who watches Young and the Restless tells me is routine today. On that note I was in a doctor's office last winter, and while in the reception room saw about 15 minutes of a current serial and all my worst suspicions were confirmed, (and I had been told by others). The whole thing was so asinine--so dumbed down--with brief 3 to 4 minute segments, (highly edited). It made me glad to be old since I remember they way they were.

I watched "Storm" "Edge of Night" "Guiding Light" and "ASTWT" as frequently as an active athletic kids schedule would permit, (in fact compared to today's youngsters I watched very little TV).

Have to sign off now, but if you are interested I can comment on Marjorie Gateson, (of movie fame as Grace Tyrrel) whose maid was none other than Margaret Hamilton of the Wizard of Oz.

Can also tell about the big outdoor film sequence used on Storm for the drowning of Belle Clemen's daughter Robin on Memorial Day 1968, and about Valerie Ames accidentally killing Brooke with a letter opener in October 1966.

Many other memories too, such as Lisa's mother on ASWT. Let me know if you have particular inquries.

Best,

BU (excuse any typos please as I'm rushing).

In 1975 or 1976 Kathy played Jenny Wolek on OLTL. Her main story as Jenny was about deciding to abandon her plans to become a nun, so she could marry her soulmate, Tim Siegel (played by Tom Berenger). During an argument with Jenny's cousin Vince, Tim fell down a flight of stairs, and Jenny married him on his deathbed. When she left the role it was recast with Brynn Thayer.

Now that I think about it the RH story may have involved pot, not LSD. Sorry. (Her daughter wanted to set her up with a man so she drugged their brownies, but the man didn't show up, so Rae ate them all, and ended up falling off the balcony and being put in traction).

General Hospital did have an LSD story in 1978 or so. Heather Webber wanted to slip her rival a mickey with LSD to try to discredit her, but the drinks were switched and Heather drank it, resulting in her being institutionalized for several years.

That's interesting, what you mention about the ratings not being an issue. I didn't even know how many times actors were interviewed about their soaps back then. Was Gale interviewed for a daytime TV type magazine?

I can't remember what replaced Best of Everything. Did you ever watch that?

No I didn't watch its replacement as I was in school. Yes, Gale Sondergaard mentioned it in Daytime TV I believe. There were a few daytime TV magazines then, though probably far less than today.

Thanks for the brownies plot line update. Stopped watching serials when I became dismayed at the way the writers destroyed the "Secret Storm" in the autumn of 1972! so as you can see I'd be no help in commenting on soaps of recent decades. The 1960's, however, (the period I watched) I will be glad to recall if there is an interest.

All Best,

BU

P.S.--Re: The Best of Everything. 5/25/10

If you wish to see a publicity photo of the 4 young actresses from "BOE" go to E-bay and type in Patty McCormack. Item #A2714 depicts her and the 3 others in a somber pose on a Victorian settee.

BU

Thanks so much, that was a great amount of detail! I wonder if whoever wrote the LSD-laced brownies sequence went on to write for Ryan's Hope, they did the same story with Rae Woodard, thanks to her evil daughter Kimberly. And Gale was also on RH briefly, in 1976, as Seneca Beaulac's mother.

It sounds like Kathy Glass was put in some tough stories. Did you watch when she played Jenny Wolek later on?

At the time did the show stand out to you as being better, or worse, than other soaps you were watching? Do you think if the show had been given more of a chance it might have been a hit?

I didn't see the later programs you reference with Kathy Glass. How did the Rae Woodard LSD sequence play out? Did the LSD have an immediate effect?

As to "Best of Everything" vs. other soaps then, the main point I would make by way of comparison is that it had 3 major motion picture names in it.

With reference to whether it would have lasted--I'm not sure--though I do think the ratings had improved, and I definately recall Gale Sondergaard telling the press that it had not been a ratings issue. Others have suggested problems re: the rights via Rona Jaffe, although I am sure that was all ironed out legally before it went on the air in the first place. In any case they didn't give it much time. I found it gripping in any case.

Best,

BU

Recollections of "Best of Everything"

I'll do my best to shed some light on the impressions this show made. I was of course, very young--Junior High, so my memories are patchy. It has been a long time.

"Best of Everything" was based on the Rona Jaffe novel of the late 50's which was successfully filmed in 1959. The serial was an update of the same basic yarn--three young secretaries in the steno pool of a major publishing house, are recruited to the executive suite where they are in daily interpersonal contact with the movers and shakers.

The typists were Patty McCormack, Julie Mannix, and Katherine Glass. There was a much reproduced promotional photo of them all walking in Central Park that appeared in the newspapers at that time.

Presumably, what an earlier poster meant by the show being ahead of its time was the emphasis on youth, and though the program featured two seniors, Misses Sondergaard and Fitzgerald, it does seem in retrospect like the the lion's share of the focus was on the young women.

Julie Mannix was very attractive with a beautiful head of hair, and a charmingly slight overbite. I was already familiar with her by virtue of her having been on "The Secret Storm." Patty McCormack was also very good looking. Both of these two had long blonde hair. Katherine Glass was the brunette who for whatever reason made less of an impression on me.

Gale Sondergaard was by this time, a wizened old woman with prominent teeth, who was at least given the benefit of a smashing wardbrobe, (the girls too were all very well dressed). Sondergaard's scenes (in my memory anyway) were largely confined to a salon or drawing room of the mansion her character inhabited, (she was a controlling owner of the publishing house.) The room was very elegant, with flocked wallpaper, crystal sconces, and many floral arrangements. Indeed, the sets from the show are something that stand out in my memory as being excellent--a cut above serial standards at that time, and though I don't know who the production designer was, I should not be surprised if it was Sy Thomashoff.

Sondergaard was the villainous and I particularly recall her elegant 5th Avenue diction.

Alas, my memories of particular plot lines is foggy, but I'll do my best.

Rochelle Oliver, vivid in my memory, owing to her prominent close set eyes, and shoulder length hair parted in the middle, was a young woman trapped in an unhappy marriage. She had many tense scenes with a young blonde man, who played her husband. I do not know if they were separated, or what caused the problems, (but being a soap probably adultery!) but I do remember a particular scene in which the husband was attempting to effect a reconcialation. He wanted to buy her a piece of jewelry and asked what she'd like. She answered "I'd like something in white enamel..." It's trivia I know but this kid did not know about enamel yet, and I was surprised she didn't ask for something in gold or silver. Forgive how minor this detail is.

There was another plot involving a very sinister character named "Squirrel" played by Gregory Rosakis. Mr. Rosakis was Italian with very sensual facial features and a mop of tousled, uncombed black curly hair. He insinuated himself into Katherine Glass's family under the pretext of being her suitor.

This greatly upset her mother, Geraldine Fitzgerald, who expressed concern that he drove a motorcyle upon which her daughter would be a passenger. She tried to forbid it, and I remember the scene where everyone tried to calm her down--that it was OK, and that she had to get up with the times.

Miss Fitzgerald was by this time, heavy, and also wore her long dark hair shoulder length, (which was doubly aging). Her legendary beauty was by this time quite gone--she played a warm sort of earth mother, who was a confidant to all the office girls. While I do not remember the domestic arrangements of any of the three young leads, I DO remember scenes taking place in the apt. of Fitzgerald and her husband, an avuncular man. Though I don't know whether the plot outline will bear this out, I recall them as being rather academic, bookish types, and wonder if they were connected with a university etc.

Fitgerald turned out to be right about Squirrel. He was a pusher who operated out of an apartment in the slums. Very dangerous guy. Somehow or other Katherine Glass got on to him, and he figured she was about to blow the whistle. Afterwards, she was savagely attacked at night on a dark street, (more on this in a moment).

Someone asked about memorable scenes--2 stick out.

First, a little boy, about say 12 or 13 wondered into the laboratory one day, (there was a lab in this show--I am not sure in what connection, but I remember the shelves with glass phials etc.--I believe the handsome young dark headed doctor, (another Italian) may have worked in the lab.

Anyhow, the plot had by this point indicated that a pan of brownies were laced with LSD! This was probably somehow Squirrel's doing, but I don't remember who they were intended for. Anyway, the boy innocently at a brownie and immediately dropped to the floor and began writhing, screaming, gyrating etc. I was about his age, and have always wondered if that is the immediate effect LSD would have.

The other memorable scene, which was on the Labor Day show, (I was off from school and tape recorded it, though I can no longer locate the tape) featured a night club sequence. The dark headed doctor took a date to the club, and shortly after they had been seated a Vegas like announcer said "Ladies and Gentleman--Miss Connie Eaton!". At this point, a pretty young woman, elaborately coiffed and gowned, took to the stage and sang the programs title song. I was astonished that the melodic instrumental that I liked so much under the shows's opening credits had lyrics! The song was arranged and delivered very much in the Petula Clark mode. An effective song, which was in its own way and on its own terms, just as good as the also excellent Johnny Mathis theme for the 59 film.

The show's music was unusual in that, (like Dark Shadows) it did not use the organ but had symphonic underscoring.

My FINAL memory of the show, occurred about a week before it was cancelled, when owing to a doctor's appointment I got some time off from school. It was then that I saw Katherine Glass lying in an alley, amidst shattered glass, and slowly getting to her feet, with multiple injuries and staggering about seeking help. She had been severely beaten up, and left for dead. Very lurid and creepy.

The show's closing credits featured sea gulls! surprising since it was set in Manhatten.

Hope these patchy recollections are worth your consideration.

All Best,

BU

Welcome! The board just went through a down period for a few days so that may be why there haven't been any responses. Anything you have to tell us about the show, it would be great. Were there any characters or stories you particularly admired? What happened in the last episode?

Greetings to all:

I only just came across this response and I haven't much time at the moment. I noticed another poster saying that this program was "ahead of it's time,". I am not sure I am qualified to rule on that as I havent' watched a serial in decades and am sorely out of touch with modern trends in entertainment.

In my student days, however, I did watch "Secret Storm," "Edge of Night" and "Dark Shadows" as other activities, (chiefly homework!) permitted. "Secret Storm" was the best serial on the air in the 60's and I have many memories of it, --Joan Crawford's appearances were no where near as bad as many are lead to believe. I saw them and she comported herself professionally.

As to "Best of Everthing," contrary to what another poster surmised, the program DID receive it's fair share of publicity in the serial magazines, (I then subsribed to "Afternoon TV" which I wish I had saved.) What intriqued me was its star line up--Gale Sondergaard, Geraldine Fitzgerald, and Patty McCormack--three movie stars of different generations, all of whom either won or were nominated for the Oscar. I am not sure that any other serial had this distinction.

My mother had thoroughley acquainted me with the Golden Age of Hollywood and so I had books, and photographs of all of these ladies, and marvelled at how beautiful Geraldine Fitzgerald had been during her youth. Miss McCormack was then coming off a movie phase wherein she was cast as young crime prone vixens, (titles like "The Mini-Skirt Mob" playing at our local drive in--were forbidden me by my parents). I had, however, read the play "The Bad Seed" and though I hadn't yet seen the film--I was sufficiently interested to carve out a spot for "The Best of Everything" during the summer it played, in the hours before I repaired to the swimming pool.

Will weigh in with more detail later, after I rack my memory banks! Best,

Brent Usher.

I am a new member. I was a regular viewer of "The Best of Everything," and will be happy to share my memories should anyone be interested.

Brent Usher