Paul Raven

Here's a summary of August 29th 1960,which deals with Teresa Vetter.

ACT ONE

It’s late afternoon in the Vetter living room. George Vetter sits sipping the medicine Teresa has prepared for him. She stands, staring at a bouquet of roses, then becomes aware that nothing seems to be happening behind her. Slowly, she turns her head to look at George. He isn’t drinking now but holds the glass in his hand, seeming to have forgotten it as he stares somberly in thought. Frowning, Teresa reminds him that he’s not taking his medicine. George tells her that he’s supposed to sip this new stuff -- sip it slowly. He states that Dr. Ellis said the slower he drinks it... the more effect it’ll have. He then tells her that it’s also more powerful, which is why she has to be careful to measure just three drops into each glass of water. The doc said if there was ever any doubt about the mixture, to throw it away and make up another dose. Teresa comments that that kind of talk scares her, and George tells her she has nothing to fear. Tomorrow, after he sees the D.A., she won’t have anything to fear from anyone.

Teresa knows what he’s talking about but has to play it straight. She asks him what he means. George tells her he’s going to take care of Victor Carlsen and his brother once and for all! He says he would have taken care of them in that storage garage if somebody hadn’t tipped Victor off. Then, ashamed, he admits to Teresa how awful he felt when he suspected it was she. Teresa moves behind him and smoothes his hair, telling him not to blame himself. After all, it seemed as if she was the only one who could have. The phone rings and Teresa, telling George to sip his medicine, turns to answer it.

Victor is calling from the Carlsen drawing room, and Teresa covers by calling him "Betty." Assuming this is because George is still alive, Victor asks Teresa if anything’s gone wrong. Did she put the extra drops into George’s medicine, and did he drank it? Teresa says, "It’s being done now, Betty. But it’s the kind of thing that has to be handled slowly." She goes on, and in disguised words, tells him the new medicine may take longer to work than they thought. Victor presses her to call him the minute she knows the medicine has done the job they expect and hope it will.

Victor hangs up as Judith Marceau and his brother Jennings enter the drawing room. Victor at once assumes a troubled look and tells them he’s just had a call from Mrs. Vetter. He " breaks the news" to Jennings (who is in on everything) that their partner George Vetter has suddenly taken ill. Emotion overcomes him, and he hurries out, as Judith looks after him, stricken and full of sympathy.
COMMERCIAL

ACT TWO

SCENE 2A
George comments on Teresa’s conversation with "Betty." He says he was hoping it was the D.A. on the phone. Teresa wishes George would tell her what he wants to see the D.A. about, she has an idea and if she’s right it could mean prison for them as well as Victor and Jennings. George assures her it’ll mean the chair for the Carlsens, maybe even him, but not her. It won’t even mean prison for her. He’s going to make it clear to Austin Johnson that she’s innocent, that she had no idea the Vetter Insurance Office was a front for the numbers racket, that she was in no way involved in the racket or the murder of Goldie Golden. He says he should have done it long ago the very day he began to realize he’d gotten them involved in a business deal not with men, but with savage animals. Now he has no choice. He has to expose them and himself, if he’s to save her. She can’t imagine the vicious cruelty of a man like Victor Carlsen! He takes a sip of his medicine and feels a faint spasm that Teresa notices. He dismisses the feeling and tells her that Carlsen has planned to get rid of him all along because he wants her! Teresa rejects this notion saying she’s done nothing to encourage Victor and George quickly tells her he doesn’t suspect her but he does suspect Carlsen. He says that the quicker he clips Victor Carlsen’s claws, the safer Teresa will be. He then says he’s going to call the D.A. right away and gets to his feet, only to feel a wave of dizziness. He shakes his head as if to clear it as Teresa helps him to sit. George tells her to call the D.A. and he’ll tell her what to say. Thinking fast, Teresa tells him to settle back and finish his medicine. George gives her the number and she crosses to the phone. With her back to him, Teresa dials the number as she holds down the cradle.

SCENE 2B
In the Carlsen drawing room Judith is seated, looking troubled. Jennings stands beside her, careful to say the right thing without saying anything, unsure of what new tack Victor is on. Judith is questioning Jennings about Victor’s reaction to Mr. Vetter’s sudden illness. The news doesn’t seem to upset Jennings as much as it did Victor. Jennings says his emotions are more controlled than Victor’s. "Victor is more sensitive, more sentimental than I am," he states. Victor enters with a pale, wan smile that asks for sympathy. He apologizes for acting like a fool, saying the news of George’s illness took him by surprise and tells Judith he’s not going to let his problems ruin her visit. Judith says she has to be going anyway and Victor invites her to stay for dinner. She says she’d like to but she’s supposed to drop by Mrs. Karr’s house to discuss some things that have to do with the Youth Ranch money-raising things. Victor says he’s not trying to lure her into staying for dinner, this whole thing with Mr. Vetter makes him feel lost alone he just needed someone to lean on. The guilt trip clearly works on Judith as she impulsively tells him that perhaps she can stay. She can call Sara, Mrs. Karr, and tell her she’ll be late. Jennings gives her a look that seems to say "Could you, for him?", and Judith crosses to the phone. As she does Victor silently compliments Jennings on his adroit ploymanship which Jennings silently accepts.
COMMERCIAL

ACT THREE

A short time later in the Vetter living room, George has all but finished the medicine. He takes one last gulp as he eyes Teresa through the bottom of the glass. A numbness that he mistakes for relaxation is slowly starting to creep over him. Teresa takes the glass from his hand as George settles back, closing his eyes. Teresa crosses to the sideboard with the glass and places it near the medicine bottle. She turns and her eyes narrow on George. George suddenly says her name and Teresa’s face reflects the question, "Is this it?". He says it again, this time with a faint note of panic, "Teresa!"

COMMERCIAL
STATION BREAK

ACT THREE

Teresa smiles as she walks toward George. He has started up to a half-sitting position and tells her he feels funny, as if he’s drifting...floating. Teresa reminds him the medicine is supposed to relax him. George wonders why it effects him so much more now than ever before. He questions Teresa about the amount of drops she used, emphasizing the use of only three drops. She assures him she was very careful, as George continues to complain about feeling strange. He closes his eyes and begins to dream about the past, smiling as he remembers.

Suddenly the smile vanishes and sadness sits on his mouth. He whispers brokenly to Teresa that something seems wrong. She better phone Dr. Ellis. Teresa watches him a moment, thinking, then she goes to the phone and dials. Victor answers the phone in the Carlsen drawing room, while Teresa pretends she’s talking to Dr. Ellis. Teresa tells Dr. Ellis that her husband asked her to call him. He seems worried about the new medicine. Victor asks Teresa if this is "it", and Teresa replies, "Yes . I’d say so, Doctor." Victor directs her to phone the doctor as soon as it happens and get him over there. She needs to play it smart. She’s grief-stricken but under control. He warns her not to overdo anything. Don’t talk too much, or offer too much information. Then he asks her about the bottle of medicine...if her fingerprints are on it. When she says yes, he tells her to wipe them off then see to it that George’s prints are on it. Press the bottle into his hand.

Victor hangs up, smiling tightly and is about to turn from the phone when he hears someone approaching. He remains at the phone and puts on a deeply sad expression as Judith enters the drawing room. She starts to tell Victor she’s ready for supper but breaks off as he turns toward her, and she sees the sorrow in his face. She crosses to him quickly asking him what’s wrong. Victor tells her he just spoke to Mrs. Vetter again, and they think George is dying. What will he do without him? He depended on him. If George dies, Victor will have no one to turn to for advice and encouragement. He stares at the floor biting his underlip, as if holding back his emotions. Touched, Judith lays a hand on his arm. He looks up slowly to meet her eyes. She smiles sympathetically, and his answering smile is grateful as he lays his hand over hers.

Back in the Vetter living room Teresa still stands at the phone, her hand resting on it, her eyes on George. She asks George if he heard what the doctor said. When she doesn’t get a response she crosses to him and looks down at him. Is he dead? His eyes are closed, he is motionless. She takes hold of his wrist feeling for his pulse and frowns. Inexpert at feeling for pulse beats, she can’t be sure he’s dead even though she can’t feel any pulse. She releases his wrist, then lays her hand over his heart. Does she feel anything? All of a sudden his hand comes up and grabs her wrist. His eyes are watching her. He asks her faintly, dreamily, "Terry, what are you doing?" Teresa is startled. Does he suspect? She swallows hard, very hard.
COMMERCIAL

ACT FOUR

Recovering, Teresa tells George that Dr. Ellis said he has nothing to worry about. George smiles dreamily and closes his eyes again. After a moment or two, his hand slips off hers. She immediately straightens up and looks down at him. She says his name a couple of times again no sound, no movement. She crosses to the medicine bottle, taking a handkerchief from her pocket as she does so. Her eyes stay on George as she wipes the bottle clean of fingerprints. Holding the bottle carefully with the handkerchief she returns to George. She picks up his hand, places the bottle in it and presses his fingers around it. George lets out a little sigh and Teresa’s eyes stab at him. It’s all right; he’s too far-gone to have noticed anything. Now, holding the bottle with the handkerchief around the screwcap, she starts to slip it into his dressing gown pocket. Her hand touches on something else and she brings out the gun George put there earlier. She slips the bottle into his pocket, and then carefully wipes the gun clean of her fingerprints. Holding it by the barrel she presses the gun into George’s hand. His fingerprints are on it. His alone. She carries the gun wrapped in the handkerchief to the desk and places it in the drawer . . . then she scans the room. Has she overlooked anything? She crosses to George and peers at him for a long moment. She takes a hold of his wrist, raises it and lets it fall, a dead weight. She looks toward the phone. If George isn’t dead, he soon will be. She can certainly make the call without fear of anything going wrong. She crosses to the phone, dials and waits. When Dr. Ellis answers Teresa pretends to be agitated, asking him to come over right away! It’s terribly urgent!
COMMERCIAL

December 1, 1967 .

Bob and Don are in the Hughes kitchen, when Bob gets a house call to Lisa's. Pa comes in–he has something for Jimmy (Sandy's son), and hopes Sandy will be there for Christmas as well.

Lisa is sick and Bob checks her out. Lisa doesn't want to go to the hospital–she's pregnant (with Michael Shea's child). Tom, born in 1960, is 15 years old. Chris and Pa talk about Sandy–she's missing. Lisa is taken away in an ambulance. Dan is also in the ambulance.

Written by Irna Phillips, Warren Swanson and John Boruff.
Directed by Paul Lammers and Cort Steen.
Producer: Lyle B. Hill.
Cast Credits (in order):
Nancy Hughes . . . Helen Wagner
Chris Hughes . . . Don McLaughlin
Penny Hughes McGuire . . . Rosemary Prinz
Bob Hughes . . . Don Hastings
Ellen Stewart . . . Patricia Bruder
David Stewart . . . Henderson Forsythe
Lisa . . . Eileen Fulton
Grandpa Hughes . . . Santos Ortega
Claire Shea . . . Barbara Berjer
Paul Stewart . . . Steven Mines
Dan Stewart . . . John Colenback
Dick Martin . . . Edward Kemmer
Dr. Michael Shea . . . Roy Shuman
Roy McGuire . . . Konrad Matthei
Susan Stewart . . . Jada Rowland
Judge Lowell . . . William Johnstone
Karen Adams . . . Doe Lang
Tom Hughes . . . Paul O'Keefe

I've forgotten who played Bob but I recall that Geraldine Court played his mother Mary. As for Mickey Barlowe, that story and character went nowhere.

Joan was also excellent in 'Suspicion' with Cary Grant. The book on which it is based is well worth reading also.

Eleanor Parker also passed recently.Her performance in 'Caged' and the movie itself are well worth watching.

The myth of the many Patti's continues .Why the magazine would say 20 actresses played the part is a mystery. As far as I can discover,this is the list

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Bethel Leslie played Claudia,Cerea's mother. She was the original Maggie Powers on the The Doctors and was headwriter at one time on Secret Storm.

Transcript of Yahoo! Chat with As the World Turns' Colleen Zenk Pinter May 2, 2001

Colleen: Hi everyone. I just got home from my commute from As the World Turns and walked in the door and had to say goodnight to my little ones and put my children to bed so please forgive me for being a little bit late!

Bernard_Sandner: Colleen, would you be friends with Barbara?

Colleen: I think I would be, that's an interesting question. I'm not sure I would agree with all of her choices. She is a fairly intelligent, fairly secure, loving, not always right-headed secure mother.

bfan64: Colleen, Good Evening. Are you happy with the direction Barbara has taken, and how do you like working with Hunt Block

Colleen: Well, I'm thrilled with the story Hogan has given me. I haven't worked this hard in years. I'm having so much fun because I get to play every emotion on the map on a single day. Clearly she's making some huge, huge mistakes. And I'm enjoying myself with everyone I work with and I hope that it shows on the screen.

dancinbear1232000: Is Barbara ever going to have another fashion show?

Colleen: I don't think anytime soon and there'll be a reason for that...

imfun69_2000: Colleen you do a lot of charities and things of that nature what is the one charity you support the most?

Colleen: We've been involved with an AIDS hospice (an outreach program here in Connecticut) called Bread and Roses for a number of years, Mark and I are on the Board of Governors, I would say that is where we are most active after after having worked with a number of national charities for many years. We've found that our efforts paid off a lot more with more grassroots organizations.

amyy0923: Do you think that Barbara will get to make up for her recent lapse of reason by helping to bring the house down on Craig in the end?

Colleen: Oh boy! I'm hoping that Barbara will eventually see the light and she will make Craig pay big time.

amyy0923: Which of Barbara's relationships do you think has been the biggest mistake?

Colleen: The biggest mistake? There were so many of them. Antonio, Duncan, Gavin, just to name a few but this is the biggest doozy of them all.

Bernard_Sandner: Describe yourself in three words? Describe Barbara in three words?

Colleen: That's hard! Hardworking, loving and honest. Barbara, only three? Selfish, pigheaded and blind to reality.

carjacked4life: Is Ben a fun person to act with?

Colleen: Hilarious! He's nothing like Hal, nothing. He's very funny and a wonderful actor. And clearly we worked together very well for many years. It's always fun and games with Benjamin Hendrickson.

bfan64: Who else would you like to work with on the show

Colleen: I can't wait to work with Martha. We have some scenes coming up and I'm thrilled. All these years I've never worked with her, so that's fun. But I don't know if it's Rose or Lily.

kirxx: Why is Barbara so mean to Carly?

Colleen: Oh c'mon! Carly has been a thorn in her side since she arrived in town. Carly has wormed her way into Barbara's life with every man that has been important to Barbara. Carly is just a little pest and I'd like to swat her. Keep watching.

psb_83: Was dressing up for Craig's costume ball last Fall as much fun as it looked?

Colleen: We had a great time. Our costume designers did a wonderful job with everyone. Most of the clothing we wore was all vintage, some of it was from London some was from Hollywood. The dress I wore was an English dress and I had a ball! We all felt very transformed.

nik_elaine: How is Mark doing? I haven't had a chance to see him on AMC, but was a Huge AW fan. I hope he is doing well!!

Colleen: He's sitting right here! How are you doing honey? He says he's doing just fine... on another network!

Bernard_Sandner: What do you think Barbara should get for Mother's Day?

Colleen: A how-to book on Mothering or The Dummy's Book on How To Deal With Teenage Daughters.

lynnjville: Barbara has been a character on As the World Turns for many years. Can you tell me Colleen how has Barbara changed over the years and what storylines do you think have been important to the character she is today.

Colleen: That's a good question. Clearly, her early days as the imperiled heroine, ingenue under James Stenbeck's rule really affected her. She had to gain some backbone to stand up to someone and of course the person who did that for her, inadvertently, was Brian McCall played by Mark Pinter when she was basically dumped over night for Shannon by Brian McCall (played by Mark Pinter). Literally overnight Barbara turned from the doormat to the bitch and I'll never forget it. Eileen Fulton and I had a scene the next day and I said 'Hello Lisa.' And it was Barbara transformed. So that storyline that I played with Mark all those years ago had a huge, huge impact on where Barbara would journey in the next few years. Meeting Hal transformed her back into a human being. Giving herself up and being incarcerated all those months to protect her son Paul had a tremendous effect on her as did falling in love with the man who got her out which was Hal. It was devastating to Barbara to find out he was not the right one, not once, not twice but three times. And her short journey with John Dixon and the death of her baby made Barbara wake up and take a hard look at her life. Now this new wrinkle, Hal turned into a different person, I don't blame Barbara for leaving him. He was horrible and a man she didn't now. Now, she wants more form life and she's looking for it in all the wrong places.

Bernard_Sandner: So, what do you think of Chris Goutman and Hogan Sheffer's improvement to ATWT lately. ATWT seems to be back to the olden days of Doug Marland with this current team! I've been totally enjoying ATWT now...

Colleen: I'm thrilled to hear that because all of us who have been there for such a long time feel the new energy and life in our show and I think it's because of Chris and Hogan. The leadership is behind us, Hogan has been allowed to breather new life into the show. He uses history to transform characters and take them on new journeys in their lives. It's so rich and the fans are in for such a treat over the next few months. There's so much story being told so quickly, please do not miss a day. It's unbelievable.

CTCH3_99: Colleen, don't you think the character that Mark is playing on AMC is very similar to Craig Montgomery? Both are trying to marry rich women for their money.

Colleen: I think that's a valid point, except that his character on AMC was a real grifter with a no-good start whereas Craig was headed down the right road but somewhere along the way took a wrong turn. Craig was a fairly sympathetic guy. I don't really know enough about Roger Smythe on another show, to answer that question, because Mark hasn't been there long enough for them to develop his entire back story, but it's happening. Goodness, I'm plugging another show!

cmw1_99: When did you first decide to become an actress?

Colleen: I've been in the business professionally since I was about 10. Not necessarily as an actress, I did commercials, I did print work and theater. I started out just wanting to dance and be a dancer. Somewhere in my high school years, I only wanted to only do music theater. So my dreams were always for the Broadway stage which segued in going to college and then New York, working in the theatre here and the Broadway stage and finding my way into the genre and realizing what a perfect way it is for me to live, it's not perfect for everyone, but for me and who I am and the things that I want out of life which daytime television can give me and my family, and that's what it's all about!

evan_walsh_iii: You still look as lovely as ever (by the way). Miss working with you. Continued success and happiness to you!

Colleen: Thank you! That's very sweet. Everyone, that was a message from Greg Watkins and he played Evan Walsh on the show for a number of years and I worked with him almost ten years ago! How nice to hear from you!

tyshanescott: Colleen how happy are you this nomination? Is this the most exciting Emmys for you? Who are you bringing with you to the awards and what is your goodluck charm?

Colleen: Well, without a doubt this is the most exciting Emmys for me ever. I'm bringing my gorgeous husband Mark and his gorgeous brother and his gorgeous wife and we're gonna do the town up. It's going to be a fun, fun night. It doesn't matter frankly who wins, just to be on the list after all these years is pretty darn nice.

gator7680us: Any plans to do theatre with Mark? If I remember correctly, you two did Love Letters awhile ago.

Colleen: We've done it man, many y times and will be doing it again on October 6 in Ridgefield, CT at the Ridgefield Playhouse. Then in Naples, FL sometime next February. Also sometime in the current year we'll be associated with the University of Wisconsin as well.

randitaj: What is the first section you go to when entering a book store? why?

Colleen: The Design section or Architecture just to see what's new. I head straight for that or Gardening.

kayla_loves_atwt: Colleen: How are your 6 kids doing?

Colleen: My son is here typing a question, 'Tell us about your wonderful son Morgan.' My kids are great! Everybody is incredible! Morgan is president of the 5th grade. Georgia is making her first communion this weekend and Kelsey is on the college search. Sirri is at the University of Wisconsin, second year. Dylan and Hannah are sophomores in high school, trying to figure out what to do with their lives.

alwaysange: Colleen, do you think that Barbara will be able to fix her relationship with Jennifer?

Colleen: Barbara desperately attempts to mend her relationship with her daughter and is successful, she thinks and then everything goes awry.

seargeant_storm: What adventure would you like to take Barbara on?

Colleen: I'd like to travel to Scotland and see if Brian McCall still remembers me. See if he's still wearing that cute kilt he had. See it Shannon is still the little blank that she was. And the wife Beatrice with all the curly blonde hair.

irna_phillips: We hear rumors that Paul Ryan will soon return to Oakdale, how would you feel about that?

Colleen: Thrilled and I can't say anything more.

map3750: Who's your favorite actor on All My Children?

Colleen: Mark sent that! Who do think honey?!? The one I live with, Mark Pinter!

kekelovejags: Since your husband is on another soap, which show will you sit with at the Emmy awards?

Colleen: I will be with ATWT and my husband will be with his wife!

brianna_11756: Colleen, if you could be the head writer of the show, would you change anything, and if so what?

Colleen: I frankly don't have that kind of imaginary talent. The direction the show is taking right now is absolutely the right direction and I'm honest about this. I really can't imagine any better way for us to be going than this.

msc5012_515: How are you handling the commute to and from Brooklyn?

Colleen: Not very well. It's a very long trip. I leave at 4:45 a.m. and today I finished on the set at 6:45 p.m. I was in the car back to Manhattan at 6:50 p.m. and I didn't get home until 8:55 p.m. and that was a good commute.

klimtgirl17: What is your favorite movie of all time?

Colleen: I can only name one? My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, It's a Wonderful Life and The Wizard of Oz.

klimtgirl17: What were some of your first roles?

Colleen: The Gwen Burden role in Can-Can Claudine, Corrie in Barefoot in the Parkand Ann in All My Sons. These were early roles. My favorite show that I did was the musical show Mark and I do together, Evening with Pinter and Zenk. In that I get to do everything. It's hard to pick a favorite role.

gmanfancc: Does Barbara have a fatal weakness for the naughty boys, or does she just like to have Hal coming to her rescue all the time?

Colleen: Ooh, that's a very good question. She has a fatal weakness in that she doesn't recognize the potential evil in human beings.

tyshanescott: Colleen do you get jealous when your husband does love scenes with other women? How would you feel if they paired your husband with Susan Lucci? LOL

Colleen: Well, I've known Susan for years so that wouldn't bother me. I have been known at times to have a little green monster sitting on my shoulder.

randitaj: What ever happened to arch enemies Margo and Barbara? What did you think of this rivalry and do you miss it?

Colleen: I don't think they have really written the rivalry for us in the past few years and maybe they have even forgotten about it.

lynnjville: Do you remember your very first scene on ATWT?

Colleen: I do! It was out of order and so my very first show to tape was with Don Hastings. I had to burst into tears and apologize for the things the character had done years earlier which of course I had never done. So at 7 a.m. we're rehearsing the scenes and I burst into tears and had tears streaming down my face and Don Hastings says, 'That's ok kid, don't worry about it.'

ATrammell: Member: Colleen you have got to be one of the most beautiful women in daytime. Any special beauty secrets you'd like to share?

Colleen: That's very sweet, thank you. Eat a balanced diet, I don't believe in lowfat, high protein, low protein, just a balanced diet and just make sure you've got a little champagne to carry you through life.

carjacked4life: If they were to remake a movie and cast yourself in the lead, what would the movie be?

Colleen: I think Mark and I should do Virginia Woolf. Yeah, I'd love to see us do the Burton and Taylor roles in that. Mark and I could do My Fair Lady.

kirxx: Who would be Barbara's dream guy? Is it Craig?

Colleen: I don't think so. I don't think he's on the canvas in Oakdale. That's clear. She's tried it three times with Hal.

kittykat850_2000: Do you dress like Barbara in real life? Barbara is so stylish. :-)

Colleen: I am stylish but not like Barbara. She's a little uptight for me though I think she is dressing a little funkier. Mostly you'll find me in blue jeans and a baseball cap.

suite_1001: Colleen, congratulations on your Emmy nomination. What scenes did you submit?

Colleen: Thank you very much. I relied on the advice of our producers. The scenes in the hospital after Parker's accident when I confront Jennifer, that entire episode and the scenes in December when Hal and Barbara decide to divorce, just before Christmas.

kayla_loves_atwt: What is one of your favorite things to do when you get time off?

Colleen: I don't know what time off means right now. Well, it's spring and time for gardening. I took the kids Duck Pin bowling on Saturday night. I'm not a big shopper except for things for the house and generally you'll find me puttering around the house or with the kids.

bfan64: Did you see Trent Dawson dressed up like a woman wearing his Barbara wig?

Colleen:Yes I did! It was unbelievably funny. When he told his hairdresser to cut his hair like Barbara, I nearly died. He wrote that in! That was so funny!

diablosdelsol: How do you feel about catfights in soaps?

Colleen: Well, I think I'm a little old for them. I don't know. Do the fans like them? I can't tell. Sometimes I see them on other shows and there so over the top... they all seem so silly to me. I have to say the other day with Katie, Lily and Ruby it was hilarious. It was great fun because it was so over the top and not women in mud or something like that.

amyy0923: You are one of the better chatters I have seen, I almost didn't join because I am so upset with Barbara right now but I am glad I did, thank you for taking time for your fans.

Colleen: That's very nice.

kaja_0999: Do you get recognized a lot?

Colleen: I used to get recognized more when I was younger, I don't know what that means! Maybe it's the baseball hat, I don't know.

amyy0923: Do you ever go to the ATWT fan sites or message boards and read what the fans say?

Colleen: I lurk all the time!

kayla_loves_atwt: Colleen: Will you be attending the St. Jude Hospital Benefit this coming October?

Colleen: I don't know when it is but we're going to try to get there. My life depends not only on my work schedule but my children's schedules.

micha1880: Colleen, how do you and your husband get away from the hectic pace of the soap world?

Colleen: We live in a very bucolic small rural town in Connecticut. Away from everything!

irna_phillips: Can you tell us what work you are most proud of? I think the scenes after the church fire when baby Johnny died were fantastic.

Colleen: It's hard to pick out one, I've been on almost 23 years. I would say that I think I'm the most proudest of my most recent work. The material I have been given in the last 4 months is so fantastic and what the viewers are going to see I'm very proud of. I think it really stands alone and just makes me feel good that I get to go to work everyday and say those words.

Anthony17USN: What do you think is the most challenging about acting?

Colleen: Being honest.

hermie302001: Do you know what you are wearing to the Daytime Emmys yet?

Colleen: Absolutely. Beautiful gown by Eric Gaskins. It's a champagne colored silk jersey sheath with a small train and beading across the bodice. It will be very comfortable. I just brought my shoes home! Eric is just doing incredible things for me. My jewels are yellow and white diamonds by Addessi of Ridgefield, CT. They're loaning me over 60 carats for the evening! You would not believe what I'm wearing!

gmanfancc: Do you worry that Barbara has become unsympathetic, or is it more fun playing a misguided Barbara?

Colleen: I'm hoping the fans hate her right now. She's not only terribly misguided she's terribly neurotic although she tries hard to be a good mother and do the right things for her children. But she is terribly misguided right now and I love that. I think out there are some fans that find me very sad and that they feel bad for Barbara and remember what Hal has put her through this year that has led her down this path.

gmanfancc: Barbara has had a lot of female rivals...Shannon, Margo, Carly....who is her ultimate adversary?

Colleen: I think Carly is right there and will be for a long time. It's a wonderful rivalry and there's a lot of life in that.

amyy0923: Are you worried at all about the threats of strikes this summer? How will it affect the show?

Colleen: I don't really know I haven't heard tonight. We've lived through a six month writers' strike before and it was difficult but we got through it. We got through it but I'm not sure in this day and age with the lack of viewership in daytime television if we will all survive. It's scary times for everybody in our business.

kayla_loves_atwt: Are you a fan of the reality TV shows, like Survivor?

Colleen: No. Sorry haven't seen one episode of the new one. No time! Besides all those reality shows put actors out of work.

kayla_loves_atwt: What is your favorite color to wear?

Colleen: Oh, my favorite is white/ivory.

pantherfrey62: what cast member inspires you most and why?

Colleen: I'd say that's a toss up between my dear friends Eileen Fulton and Katherine Hayes. They've both been mentors and role models for me all these years and we've developed deep friendships. I adore them both for all of their little crazy idiosyncracies.

zrs0728: Colleen, Hi I love ATWT and I am so pumped about all of the Emmy nominations. (It's about time!) My question is who is the biggest prankster on the set?

Colleen: Benjamin Hendrickson. Actually it's kind of a three way tie right now, Ben, Scott Homes and Michael Park. In the old days it was Don Hastings and Larry Bryggman.

shelt28: Are you and Barbara alike in any way?

Colleen: Well, Barbara has a lot of me in her, a lot. I just don't think I've had the same life experiences as Barbara, thank God. Hopefully I will never make the disastrous choices she's made. We look a lot alike!

gwattaloopy: Thank you for playing Barbara. She gives me motivation to stand up for myself. Thanks Colleen.

Colleen: Thank you. That's very nice.

amyy0923: What do you think is the one thing Barbara would never do?

Colleen: Sleep with Bob Hughes. He was my step father so Don Hastings and I have joked about it for years.

Colleen: I just want to say goodnight to everyone. Goodnight to my mom! I was talking to her on my cell phone and the battery went dead. Thank you so much for all of your support through all of these years. Keep tuned in because the wedding from hell is coming up!

Transcript of Yahoo! Chat with Guiding Light's Beth Chamberlin (Beth) December 20, 2000

Beth: Hello all you great, fabulous Guiding Light fans!

alyssa_1200 asks: Beth, first I just want to tell you how much I enjoy your work! You're a wonderful actress. I'd like to ask, what has been your most challenging work so far on GL?

Beth: It's an interesting question. The whole Luekemia story was challenging in the way that as an actress it required my digging down deep emotionally. Then there are also the challenges when what you are doing is not consistent with your character. The whole Matt and Beth story I couldn't understand. A lot of the stuff with Jim, I found our pairing very challenging and difficult at times.

sarah__k asks: I just watched today's show. The scenes at the fire were so heart wrenching and everyone really did a wonderful job. How do you prepare yourself to do such emotional scenes?

Beth: There is a lot of work that goes into emotional scenes. I have to be very clearly emotionally hooked up to each moment. Some of the fire stuff especially, the scenes where I had to go into the house. It was frightening. When we went in during taping, I was a nervous wreck. I was literally shaking uncontrollably.

sarah__k asks: How much preparation do you have for something like that? Is there a lot of stunt coordination?

Beth: Our director was wonderful that day. We did have great special effects people. I didn't feel like I was unprotected. So there was not any prep time. We actually shot four episodes the day of the fire. We started at 7 in the morning and didn't finish until 11 in the evening. Sometimes in soaps, they don't have the time for take after take after take.

cynderella40 asks: What is going to happen to your character now that Jim is dead?

Beth: I think that is that Edmund will play into what goes on next with Beth. He will be a big player. That will make for an interesting story. Edmund is an interesting guy for Beth, especially in contrast with Phillip. When she is with Edmund, Beth is healthier than when she is with Phillip.

taz19977 asks: What is David Andrew Macdonald really like?

Beth: David is the nicest, most fabulous man you could imagine. He's terrific to work with. He's such a gentleman. So polite and intelligent.

some_obscure_reference asks: Do you have a favorite memory or storyline?

Beth: I still think my favorite storyline was having to deal with Carl dying. There was so much intrigue with that. It's definitely my favorite.

taz19977 asks: Is Brittany Snow easy to work with?

Beth: Brittany Snow is a dream. She's such an enormous talent. She's also an incredible professional. To go to school and know her lines and her mark the first time, everytime, she just amazes me day after day.

taz19977 asks: What's it like working with the younger actors in comparison to what was it like for you as a young actor?

Beth: I'm impressed by all of the young actors on the show. Just comparing them to me, because my background had prepared me more for theater I was completely overwhelmed. I was not prepared with my training to work this quickly. I'm amazed that I don't see more of that from this new younger set. I'm quite impressed by them.

roxanne_m21 asks: Beth, do you miss little Hayden? Love you in Canada!

Beth: Oh that's so sweet! I worked with Hayden for so long now (for three years). Of course I miss her. I feel like a mother to her. We worked so long together. I don't know what the plan is, she has quite a career going. She's an amazing actress. She's so talented, such a great kid. You work with people for such a long period of time. When you are playing the parent of someone, it's your responsibility to take care of them.

princess_angel29512 asks: Seasons Greetings, Ms. Beth. Do you and Beth Ehlers [Harley] really get along?

Beth: Beth Ehlers is one of my favorite people. We love it when we get to fight. We love to laugh with each other about it. When she called me a slut, I'd just start laughing. Another day when we were fighting, I just couldn't keep a straight face. I just love her so much. The fight scenes are so hilarious to us.

some_obscure_reference asks: Who is your favorite cast member to work with?

Beth: Oh boy! It's just such a great cast! So many different people are favorites in different ways. Grant Aleksander, Beth Ehlers. I am very fortunate to be surrounded by such great people here.

alyssa_1200 asks: Beth, I read that you and your husband teach ski lessons. Have you had a chance to get out and enjoy the snow yet?

Beth: No, actually we haven't. I am hoping that during our week off we will at least ski one day. We are hoping to fit in a ski date very soon.

bluegill_swamp asks: Beth, do you think the characters choices of where they've sought solace after the disaster have been realistic?

Beth: I think it's pretty realistic frankly. Because of the situation, you really want to be close to those people that have experienced the same loss that you have. It's a very common reaction. She wouldn't feel that Harley likes Jim very much, Beth will definitely miss Jim more. Susan wanted to be with someone who is experiencing similar pain.

playa_2001_and_on asks: Who are you close with on the show?

Beth: Tina Sloan and I are very close. She's like a second mother to me. We have similar mannerisms. We are almost mirroring one another on the set. I am always so flattered, when people tell me I look like Tina.

roxanne_m21 asks: Beth, hello! Just wanted to let you know that you, Brittany, Beth, Grant, and of course Anthony had me crying up here in Canada! What an emotional episode. Was it very difficult to say goodbye to "Jim" as well as your costar? We were sad to see him go! Love you in Canada!

Beth: Yeah, we had a going away party for Anthony. And we all drank lots of margaritas. His last day was a very emotional day. You work with someone for so long and so closely. It's like a part of you is not going to be here anymore. It was very strange now that he isn't here on the set anymore. He was taken from us so dramatically. Anthony's real leaving didn't seem to be real. It hit all of us when it was his last scene, when everyone came out to applaud him.

lanie_777 asks: Hi Beth! It was great seeing you and David in Columbus last month. You are as sweet as everyone told me you are! Do you have any other appearances coming up?

Beth: Oh, I wish I did! I wish I knew of one. At this point, I don't know of any right now. I love doing appearances. It's nice to meet fans and get feedback.

jack_hammer_999 asks: Do you have a website?

Beth: I'm afraid I don't have my own website. In fact I just recently got my computer and I've only just recently gone online. Maybe I will have one in the next few months. The best thing will be to go for the Guilding Light website to look for a link, because I will be getting one in the next few months or so.

school147862 asks: Do you know what Anthony is planning to do now that he's gone? And, do you know what direction they're taking Beth? Will they pair her with Edmund?

Beth: Anthony Addabbo moved out to Southern California. Tony is very happy out there. He has so many irons in the fire. You're going to be seeing him someplace very soon. I believe she will be pairing with Edmund. She's available now. It makes it much easier for Edmund now that Beth's available. She gets a strange comfort from Edmund. He knows how to comfort her. She is drawn to him in this time of need that she is experiencing.

school147862 asks: If you could write Beth's storyline, what would you write?

Beth: I would like to see Beth making a choice of being with Edmund or not and I would like to see her becoming stronger. I see that Edmund could help Beth become stronger. She's a little unstable and fragile at times now. I think Edmund could really help her gain some strength. I would like to see Beth work through some of her demons. She had an awful childhood. Not being with Philip has left her at loose ends.

priness1622us asks: Hi! I am one of your biggest fans! How did you get started with your career in acting?

Beth: I was a dancer first. And I wanted to act, but I was afraid to admit that to anyone. I'm from northern Vermont, so it seemed like a remote possibility. I took acting classes for a number of years. I found myself an agent. I went on many many auditions, before I got Guiding Light. Guiding Light was the first contract role that I actually got.

sma22335 asks: Would you ever want to work behind the camera?

Beth: I do think periodically about directing. I don't think you can help but think about it. As an actor, you cannot help but want more control, over camera shots and directing other actors. It's a great way to create work for yourself. Sylvester Stallone, if he hadn't written Rocky wouldn't be the star he is today.

stigmatas_about_the_groin asks: Do you have a special diet to help maintain your emphatic physique?

Beth: Thank you very much. I'm not on a special diet. My husband and I do eat very healthy. During the week, we eat very healthfully. Very few carbs. Mostly fish and vegetables. On the weekends, we do have pasta. We do try to excercise every day.

melindajo2000 asks: Beth, is it a lot of fun working with Grant Alexander and Michael O'Leary? I bet it would be.

Beth: I met Grant when I was in my early twenties. I was new, while Grant had been around for a while. Grant used to "keep me in line." Michael O'Leary is just one of the funniest people around. He's absolutely funny. I love the comedic moments on the show.

glfan33 asks: Is there anyone you wish you had more time with on the show?

Beth: Well, Michael O'Leary. I adore him, plus I like Beth and Rick's history together.

stigmatas_about_the_groin asks: Do you ever forget your lines?

Beth: I tend to work on my scripts all on the weekend. I usually need a couple of days to sink in. It's not always possible for me to learn it all on the weekends. It's tough for me, when I have to memorize the night before. I like to let them sit inside me and just let them come out naturally.

some_obscure_reference asks: Do you have any hobbies?

Beth: My husband and my main hobby has been renovating our house. We've been restoring and renovating this house and property. We're putting in gardens. It's fun, but it does get a litte much sometimes. It's going to be many years before this house is completely done.

priness1622us asks: What was the most stressful episode you were ever in on Guiding Light?

Beth: I think that during all of the suff with Lizzie's leukemia was very stressful. The show we shot when I was told she had leukemia, was a hard show for me, because it very closely mirrored when I was told my father died. It was a very hard time for me.

sma22335 asks: If you could change the plot what would you change?

Beth: It's hard for me to answer. I'm happy with how Beth is. Her neuroses offer many places to go as an actress. The plot door is wide open right now. We're only just beginning this new storyline.

duchessit asks: How do you relax after a long day of work?

Beth: I have a glass of wine with my husband.

lanie_777 asks: What's the funniest thing you remember happening on the set? I have heard there are quite a few practical jokers behind the scenes.

Beth: Well, hands down it's always Ron Raines. Nine times out of ten it's either Ron Raines or Michael O'Leary. Recently, Ron Raines was supposed to say to Lily "We both know Philip is the only man for Beth." But he said "We both know that Beth is the only man for Philip." Then he said "We both know that Philip is the only woman for Beth." It was so funny.

sarah__k asks: I've heard about Michael O'Leary's infamous impersonations. Does he do one of you?

Beth: He does one of me, but I haven't seen it in so long. His one of Grant is so perfect! He does a William Shatner that is my favorite thing. I make him do it all the time.

priness1622us asks: If you weren't an actor, what do you think you would be doing now in life?

Beth: If I could, in my dreams, I would be a writer. I don't think I'm as able as I would like to be. But I love writing. Playing with words, sentences, and imagery. Performance art is so different, acting is so different. It's always changing. Whether I would be able to do it, is another question.

school147862 asks: Beth, what will you and your husband be doing over Christmas?

Beth: Over the holidays, we will be going to see my mother in Vermont. On New Year's, we have a traditional small dinner party.

priness1622us asks: What actress or actor did you look up to when you were younger?

Beth: I can't say there was a specific actor or actress. I will say is that my parents always instilled in me that if you worked hard enough at a goal, and you were persistent at it, you could achieve your heart's desire. I'm definitely glad I jumped into my dream. Go for your dreams, you have absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain.

sma22335 asks: Do you feel awkward during love scenes?

Beth: I think you always feel somewhat uncomfortable doing love scenes, at least as a woman. The more you work with someone the easier it becomes. It all depends on how well you know the actor. How comfortable you are with an actor.

quido420 asks: Will the show air on Christmas?

Beth: I believe we are preempted that day. Check out the CBS website to be sure.

duchessit asks: Beth, are you conscious of the fans you've got in Italy?

Beth: Yes I am and I am very, very grateful for the fans in Italy as well. My husband and I are looking to go to Italy next year. I really want to go, because I haven't been. Maybe I'll get an appearance in Italy.

jdubea2 asks: Do you have any children in real life?

Beth: No I don't. Not yet.

quido420 asks: What kind of music do you listen to?

Beth: I am so diverse. I love listening to one thing one day and one thing the next. I like most everything. I'm not big on rap, but there is some rap I like. I don't have patience for Heavy Metal. Pretty much everything else I love. I've got very diverse tastes.

quido420 asks: Is there someone who's not on the show you'd like to work with?

Beth: Off the show, the actors I would love to work with are: Robert Duvall, Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington. I'm so amazed by their talent. I so love watching them for different reasons. I would love to just hang out and watch them work.

sma22335 asks: Do you have any say in what goes on in the writing?

Beth: Not really. But our head writer, Claire, is really terrific. She's so open. I recently asked for a scene to justify something that happens later. Claire was so wonderful she had a writer rewrite a whole scene for me. It will air sometime around New Year's. Everyone stay tuned. It really gave me what I needed to explain to the audience what Beth was going to do. Claire is really interested in what makes characters tick. She's really terrific.

taterbump asks: I have watched GL since I can remember. I know it's the longest running soap. Tell me, are there any original characters still on?

Beth: Meta is probably the longest running character.

Beth: These were great questions. I'm always impressed by our fans. The writers so often get notified of fans not liking things. It's always important to hear of when fans do like episodes. Positive stuff is always really great. Sometimes you really need the positive stuff to get it going. Thanks so much. Bye.

Transcript of Yahoo! Chat with Days of our Lives' Renee Jones (Lexie) and Joseph Mascolo (Stefano) January 18, 2001

Renee: Hi, it's Renee Jones, I'm happy to be here and I can't wait to talk to you.

Joseph: Hello, this is Joe, I play Stefano. Let's chat!

mamirault asks: Joseph, how does it feel to play such an evil villain on a popular soap opera? Also, has anyone ever given you a hard time in public because of your character?

Joseph: First, it feels wonderful to play this character. He's fun. Mainly, the audience loves him, and that's why I stay. I'm constantly asked about negative feedback. Only one time, the lady in the grocery line let me go ahead...

auntiejudy63 asks: Renee how do you feel about Lexie becoming a true Dimera?

Renee: I am so happy to be doing this because it gives me an opportunity to play emotions I've never played on the show before. It's fun. I'm happy to have this darker side come through.

cantuono asks: Joseph and Renee, who would you like to work with on DOOL that you haven't worked with yet

Joseph: I cross paths with almost everyone.

Renee: I'd like to work with Millicent (Lili).

mamirault asks: Did you always know growing up that this was what you wanted to do for the rest of your life or did you have another job/career in mind?

Renee: Actually, I was working as a receptionist at a radiological lab when I was "discovered," taken to Manhattan and started working, modeling and acting. I always admired the radiologist I worked for and thought I would want to take classes to become a radiologist.

cantuono asks: Stefano are you going to get a love story this year?

Joseph: You know, this is always one of the big questions. I wish the fans would bombard the show with this request. I think it really is time for him to have a woman that was totally devoted to him for the reasons she knows. In other words, sees him in that light as a lover instead of what he does outside. So when he's out there doing whatever he does and they confront his love interest about his being a bastard she can say, 'I don't know that part of him.' Some say Kate would be a good match. There is a definite connection with Stefano and Kate. Or with whomever. The fans should really write the producers. You see a part of Stefano with his family (for example with Lexie), which makes him such a full person.

sweet_barbiedoll00 asks: Renee is it fun playing with the baby on Days of our Lives?

Renee: This is the most well-mannered, most beautiful little baby you would ever want to see. She, actually 'they,' (my son is played by twin girls) are a joy and I'm going to hate giving them up. I've become pretty attached to those two.

marvanne2001 asks: Joseph: Do you know what Stefano has going on in that hole in Ireland? Can you give us any hints?

Joseph: To be perfectly honest I don't know what the bottom line is. Tom Langan, who by the way I think deserves a lot of kudos taking over the head writing thing and producing...

Renee: I agree!

Joseph: ...he and I talked about this but we never really went into specifics. It's a family thing that happened far back, but really I don't know how it will turn out.

kins_abc asks: Do you think Lexie will want to know about Abe and Faye? And what about Brandon?

Renee: People have come up to me with all kinds of speculation, mostly they are positive that Brandon is Abe's son. I don't know! I thought that Brandon and Lexie were going to have an affair, but that didn't happen. So I have no idea what's happening with Lexie and Brandon. I love working with Matt, though. He's a fantastic actor and a fantastic person.

mamirault asks: Who do you guys think is Chloe's father?

Joseph: Well, I don't know. There are some scenes right now that have Stefano crossing paths with Chloe. We did a scene the other day where Stefano is moved by Chloe's singing. Overall, I don't know. If Lexie has a blood sister, that would be powerful because they would have this kinship.

neve_goddess asks: Do either of you have any desire to become a writer for Days or any soap opera for that matter?

Renee: I have NONE. These writers have to come up with a show a day, and to know the intricate histories of all the characters--we have such a path. Lexie has evolved from a cop, then a doctor, then a stay-at-home mom. It would be so overwhelming to have to come up with a script a day.

Joseph: I love the input of ideas for the characters. I try as well. We, as actors, we get tense about the script to make it as real as possible. The writer's job is so hard. They are writing the equivalent of 100 movies a year. Renee and I are so involved in our characters, but they have to think of all the characters.

mamirault asks: What has been your favorite storyline of all time on Days?

Joseph: Everytime I get asked this question I pretty much answer it the same way; I've loved all my storylines. There was really only one time that I didn't really care for a particular storyline and it was tough. But that was only one time and Stefano gets into one thing after another and I've had a ball doing it.

Renee: Well for a long time one of my favorites was when I found out I was adopted and Celeste was my mom. I loved it and I loved working with Tanya. There was a connection that I really enjoyed there. But I must say that I am thoroughly enjoying the storyline I am in right now.

kins_abc asks: What has happened to Celeste? What would she think of the current situation of Stefano and Lexie?

Joseph: First of all, we personally miss her desperately. Tanya is a wonderful actress, she's a serious person about her work and a beautiful woman. I was personally shocked to see her go but she hasn't gone totally. She is still around, always the mother. I thought the mistake was made when they started putting her with other people and changed her attachment to Stefano, it would have been a great foil to know who Stefano is. I would love to see her come back. Stefano has essentially trained her for life, and she knows a lot from way back. She is an energy that we miss on the show.

sianne_1980 asks: Is that your real accent on Days, Joseph? And if not, then what kind of accent is it?

Joseph: No the accent is not real. Out in public, people realize I don't really talk like that. Originally, I said that the character should really have an accent. I remembered two movies where I thought the accent was so wonderful; Italian actor Rossano Brazzi in South Pacific and a movie he did with Katharine Hepburn called Summertime. They really inspired me. That's what I kind of hooked into and thought 'that's it!'

Renee: Joe, where are you from?

Joseph: Transylvania. No, I'm actually from Connecticut originally. Sometimes when we have visitors on the set they will ask me where I'm from, because of the accent. I'll say Connecticut, and they'll say 'No, before that,' and I'll say 'Connecticut!'

litup2night asks: Renee, how is it working with James Reynolds and do you think Abe will stand by you if he finds out what you know about Marlo's death?

Renee: I would love to see Abe first have conflict over it, but then ultimately stand by me. Abe is so honorable. He needs to be not so straightforward, I feel. When it comes to right or wrong, he will never do wrong, but love makes you do things you wouldn't normally do, so I would love to see Abe help Lexie.

Joseph: I think that would be good. Abe should cross swords with Stefano on a certain level. I always thought it was absolutely brilliant that Stefanoano's son-in-law is the chief of police. Because Stefano is so protective of this child it would be a great thing for the Abe character to have to fight that and become really quite human because he's going to come to love this child himself. There could be a lot of conflicting things that would make it dramatically interesting.

Renee: Very similar to what Lexie is going through now.

JennM_DOOLfan asks: Do you guys think showing the pictures and pieces of Marlo's decomposed body were in bad taste? Many fans were somewhat taken aback!

Joseph: I remember we were both disgusted on set. At one point, I asked "Do we have to show it? Do we have to be so obvious." Especially the head because it was so scary-ugly.

Renee: I felt nauseous. Still, as an actress, it did help me get to that place emotionally where I had contact with Marlo. Sometimes as an actor you have to react to something that is not there. To have the real thing there helps.

spotz25 asks: Who is the funniest cast member?

Joseph: I joke around with everybody.

Renee: Drake Hogestyn (John Black) always has jokes, and the younger ones do pranks, but I don't really get involved with that.

Joseph: Once or twice I put real booze in a glass where the fake stuff was supposed to be! People'd gag and I'd laugh like an idiot, but nothing like that these days. The other thing is, and probably most folks don't realize also, is the time element. We are doing an hour show a day and it isn't like the old days in Hollywood (which I truly wish we could have lived through) when they actually did pranks on each other. Probably the only guy who can do it now and get away with it is Mel Gibson. Now we just don't have that much time, and the time you have has to go into the performance. Still there is a lot of lightness. We are also very fortunate to have a GREAT crew. They make it a joy to come to work.

Renee: They have the jokes and the asides.

Joseph: Sometimes we insert some crazy stuff into the script, just for fun.

cutes36 asks: What is the most amazing thing Drake has ever done to make you laugh?

Renee: The other day, we were on the plane. You know how when you stand up in your seat a lot of people hit their head on the overhead. Well Drake stood up and hit his head, but then we realized he was just faking it to get sympathy.

bettyannmccoy asks: Joe and Renee what do you like most about DOOL and what kind of music do you like?

Joseph: My favorite is classical and opera. As I kid, I loved rock, and I even like some country. I don't really like what rap has become. I thought it was very interesting and poetic in the beginning but it has turned into something else. I love classical music of all kinds, not that everything that is classical is great. But it was something that happened to me in high school, a piece of an opera made me cry. I thought if this can make me cry, then I have to get closer to it.

Renee: Joe, you are an opera singer, aren't you?

Joseph: No, I was a concert clarinetist. I've sung in musicals but I played in the orchestra at the Met Opera long ago with some of the greatest singers in the world.

cheer_gurl34 asks: Renee, I want to be an actress when I grow up. Any tips?

Renee: First, get some training. Find some acting classes. See if it is something you really love doing. The only way to really keep your sanity in this business is to love it because you are going to get a lot of rejection. Next, find an agent, but first see if you have any talent in class or by auditioning for plays.

Joseph: I've talked to a lot of people about acting, and no one talks about how difficult, and how competitive this business is. Everything that Renee says is true. You live with the rejection. For every role I've played there are 5,000 actors up for the same role. It is one of the most difficult things to do on earth and succeed at but if you get in, it is a joyful thing to do.

Renee: If it is something you really want, just let the rejection make you stronger.

daysfan02 asks: Renee how does it feel being nominated for an NAACP Award, which by the way you definitely deserve.

Renee: Thank you. To be perfectly honest, I don't pay a lot of attention to awards. My goal is to be the best I can be as an actor. A lot of award shows are the luck of the draw, some are political. Unless all the actors are doing the same role, how can you pick a Best Actor? Nevertheless I feel honored that my work was honored by the NAACP.

Joseph: That's true. She deserves it. I agree about the game of awards. How can you choose between a comedy and a drama for the Oscar, etc.

countrybabe68 asks: Joseph, don't you get tired of kidnapping Marlena?

Joseph: I've said it publicly that the last thing I ever want to do as Stefano is kidnap Marlena. First of all he's a smart guy and if he is rejected time and time again he'd have to be an idiot not to understand she isn't interested. The wonderful thing about it from the beginning was that she was unattainable and that's why he kept going for her. But the kidnapping has become silly. A few years ago I said "please don't ever have me kidnap Marlena again."

JennM_DOOLfan asks: What do you think of Faye as a love interest for Stefano?

Joseph: You know Jenn, that has come up several times. Many have written to me with that suggestion.

bella_500 asks: Joe and/or Renee, what are you like in real life?

Joseph: Renee is a boxer!

Renee: No, but I used to do Tae Kwan Do. No I am trying to master the piano. When I'm working a lot, I don't really have a life outside the set. When I come home, I have to work on the script for the next day. I do go to the gym, but I love to read, and am learning Spanish.

Joseph: With a show like this, there is no time for "a life." Books are big with me.

Renee: Joe has a T-shirt that says, "So many books to read, so little time."

Joseph: Books, music, tennis. I am designing and building a house. And traveling.

luv24jmg asks: Joseph, do you have as much fun with Rolf and Bart as I have watching you?

Joseph: Oh yes. They are wonderful guys. They're both pros, really fun.

richbon1099 asks: Joseph, I was so glad when you returned to Days. After your departure things just weren't as interesting. What made you leave General Hospital and come back?

Joseph: I did do GH for awhile, with the same guy who created Stefano. Then I did Broadway for awhile. But eventually the audience really pulled me back, as it does every time. I really think the audience has kept Stefano alive.

Stefanoanofanus asks: Do the Days stars ever visit online chat boards?

Joseph: Only when you guys call me!

Renee: I am computer ignorant. I have a computer, and I'm online, but I haven't checked my email in a year. It's on my list, though.

roski_us asks: Joe I saw you in Jaws 2. You did a good job!

Joseph: It was great. When I went down to Florida, it was long, but fun. So many people to run this huge shark, the same one that they have at Universal.

JennM_DOOLfan asks: Joe, we the fans OFTEN write the producers, but letters appear to fall on deaf ears. How else can we get our point across?

Renee: Definitely the producers. We have no clout as to where the storyline goes.

Joseph: I think the fans can email the producers, at daysofourlives.com.

cutes36 asks: Do you answer your mail?

Renee: Actually, I read every letter and make notes for my helper. She does the letter, brings it back for me to sign, then she mails it. That's why it takes so long to get a response.

Joseph: I read every letter. I started that because I dont always watch the show. I know the affect that I have on people because of the letters.

stacey36272 asks: Does it make it difficult shooting scenes out of sequence to connect with the storyline?

Renee: I personally like it better. We shoot according to sets, like all the scenes in a restaurant. I have no problem with it. The most difficult part is if it is a very emotional scene and then I have to go back to do a scene before the emotional one.

Joseph: But that's our job as actors. It's more difficult when we go out of order, to stay in line emotionally.

Renee: When you do a film, they have a script supervisor, but we don't have that. We have to remember it all ourselves--the emotion, which hand the fork was in, etc.

Joseph: There's hardly any time, cause we really work all day.

pjgreg asks: Joseph & Renee: Is it difficult to memorize a script the day before and do the producers allow you to ad-lib very much?

Joseph: I always do my work the night before, so it's fresh. It really is gut work, very tough.

Renee: With me, I need a few days to learn my lines--memorize, sleep on it, analyze. I don't want to have to think about the words when I'm acting. I'm always getting new thoughts about the scenes. I do see a difference in my work when I don't have the time to prepare. I've always had to work harder to learn my lines.

Joseph: A lot of people will ask about cue cards and such and personally I'm against using them. But some actors rely on them. Sometimes their eyes then follow the cards.

jada8899 asks: What are your families' opinions of the show?

Joseph: My family always watches. My Mother said to me once, "Don't you dare leave that show. That's the only way we get to see you everyday."

Renee: That is the best way that they do get to see you and how you are. If I'm stressed and I'm working a lot and not eating right my Mom will say "You're getting too thin, you need to eat some more food."

elvis_gurl asks: How has being famous changed your lives?

Renee: I don't consider myself famous. I'm a working actress, and when I'm recognized, the fans are so cool because they're always so complimentary. If I'm recognized, the majority of the time it makes me feel a lot better afterwards because I realize that what I do is not for naught.

Joseph: I am extremely flattered. Netherlands, France, Belgium, Sweden, Norway. Some countries are even three years behind, and they ask me questions about things from years ago. It's all great - so complimentary. You just don't think about it and you go about your life like anyone else but sometimes you notice people staring at you. One time, on 5th avenue in New York a lady stopped me with "It's you, you're" and I answered "Joseph Mascolo" and she said "No, no, no." So I told her I'd be whoever she wanted me to be.

Renee: Sometimes when you meet people, and you ask someone a question, like a teller, and they get a blank look on their face because they recognize you but can't always place you.

jai_los asks: Why doesn't Stefano have a web site?

Joseph: Gee, I thought I did. Maybe we'll put one together soon.

Renee: First, I want everyone to know what a joy it is to work with Joseph Mascolo. He always gives me 100%, and always picks me up when I'm down. I've really enjoyed doing this chat because it makes me feel closer to the fans. I'm certainly available if you want to do another one!

Joseph: It goes both ways with Renee. Renee is really wonderful. This chat was just wonderful. I want to thank everyone for the great questions. Thanks everyone for communicating to all of us.

Renee: Thanks again!

Joseph: Thanks, goodbye.

Transcript of Yahoo! Chat with Days of our Lives' Lauren Koslow December 18, 2000

Lauren: Hi everyone, I'm really excited to have this opportunity to talk to you all!

mattes511 asks: Lauren, it was great getting in Soap Opera Digest with you at your fan gathering! Will you be having another one this year?

Lauren: Hi, how are you? I'm so glad you enjoyed the fan get-together. We're talking about the next one right now and we want to do something that would be really fun. If you have any ideas let me know!

mattes511 asks: Is it difficult to do fight scenes, like with Bryan Dattilo or Arianne Zuker?

Lauren: We love the fight scenes. We live for the fight scenes! Sometimes they bring in a stunt coordinator. There was the one I did with Louise Sorel (Vivian), that was something. Some of it was us and some were stunt doubles. The one with Bryan Dattilo where he tried to strangle me we were both going for it. They were yelling cut and I didn't hear them and the producers were very worried. It's great when Lucas gets to express his anger. The way Nicole has pushed him around has got to stop.

tomdebg asks: You were so glamorous at fanfest, what do you wear in your down time?

Lauren: I was glamorous! Thank you! Normally, I'm very eclectic. One day I'm in jeans and a tank top. I love long skirts and I like trouser suits sometimes. I really kind of vary my dress. I like to play with clothes because of my background as a clothing designer.

katedimera asks: Where has Kate's spunk gone now when she needs it most? I still love her to death, but taking verbal slaps from Victor, cowering at the sight of Sami, allowing Nicole to be considered a worthy opponent? She fought her way off a fishing boat and held her own with Vivian Alamain! Why is she letting all of this happen to her?

Lauren: Hi Kate, I love you! I agree absolutely with everything you say. It's a very difficult time for Kate. Nicole is not a formidable enemy at all. She really doesn't care about Nicole. She's seen numerous girls like Nicole on her way up. Kate knows what Nicole is doing. I think the love is over. The whole thing with Nicolas she gave up for loyalty to Victor. Ultimately, that's going to be his biggest betrayal. Cower before Sami? Never! You are going to see her actions are going to get stronger and stronger and stronger. Some amazing stuff is coming up. Don't worry! Kate will always survive. She is going to go through some bad things, but she is a fighter. Kate's been pulled in so many different directions. The whole thing with Lucas, and with Will. She had planned out what she was going to do with Sami, but the whole Lucas thing threw a kink in her plans.

cinnamondlo asks: I've heard that you recently did a poster. How can we purchase it?

Lauren: E-mail me for more details, [email protected].

Haythough17 asks: Do you enjoy playing the mean part?

Lauren: Well, I don't see it as a mean part. I think a character like Kate is fun to play. She is strong and she is a survivor. You never know what she is going to do. I don't think she is mean. She will do whatever it takes to accomplish what needs to be done. Somethings you have to be cruel to be kind.

kailey_kailey69 asks: Lauren, in your opinion, do you think that Kate and Lucas will ever get caught for the murder of Franko?

Lauren: Kate is a cat. She always lands on her feet.

mattes511 asks: Lauren, do you miss working with Victor Webster? I miss the Nicholas/Kate storyline very much!

Lauren: Yes. I think it was a very interesting storyline. We saw another whole side of Kate. It certainly showed Kate's more vulnerable side. It was the first time we had seen her vulnerable.

katedimera asks: If you had to name the most important ingredient of human beauty, what would you say it is?

Lauren: Kindness.

cinnamondlo asks: Do you have an official website or email address?

Lauren: Well my email is [email protected]. I don't have a web site just yet but we're still working on getting mine going. Kate Dimera has a fabulous website.

kozrocks asks: Lauren, is your husband still planning on coming out with his makeup line and where can we get it?

Lauren: It's going to be there but please be patient. It's a complete line and it's going to be out in the spring. I just used it today for a photo shoot.

stevec67901 asks: Lauren, do you pick out your own wardrobe for the show?

Lauren: Wardrobe fittings are so much fun! You get into this room with all these clothes. It's wonderful. We'll have fun conversations about what Kate is feeling like. Once I said, Kate's having a Black Widow Day! We do have great fun with the wardrobe. Kate has great clothes. We do make a point of Kate always looking perfect 'cause she's a person who wants everything to be perfect, when of course it's not.

mifisher2000 asks: Lauren, I think Kate really needs a great love interest! Why has it taken so long and when can we expect one for her? (The last two just aren't cutting it).

Lauren: I think you are absolutely right! Kate needs a good man! I think everyone would love to see it. You do have to find the right chemistry. It does have to be the right man. It will happen. We'll all be so excited when it finally happens.

bromale69 asks: Hi Lauren, have you been in any movies?

Lauren: Well, there is one with Rick Springfield, called Hard to Hold where I played the girlfriend of the drummer. I did some work out of the country, in Italy. It was great, just like a paid vacation!

boogerbarbiedolly1 asks: Is it true that your on-screen daughter, Billie will be returning in the not so distant future?

Lauren: I know that rumors are floating around. I don't think that's true. I think it's just a rumor.

janeln78 asks: Who are some of your favorite actors/actresses?

Lauren: How many times did I see Gladiator? I do think Russell Crowe is a great actor. I like Kevin Spacey, Annette Benning, Meryl Streep and Sigourney Weaver. I love Sigourney's whole approach to acting. There's so many actors I admire. For instance, Michael Caine, Jeremy Irons and Robert DeNiro.

ladydi_1960 asks: With Victor going for Nicole do you have your eyes set on Brandon?

Lauren: It's interesting that you should say that. We've always thought that could happen. See, that's the thing; there's only so many men in Salem.

hootergirl4life asks: Ms. Koslow, you are a great actress. I am interested in acting too. Did you go to an acting school, or did your talent come naturally?

Lauren: Well, I went to college and I studied theater, but I majored in Costume Design. I would highly recommend going to school to study. I'm actually going back to class in January. It's an ongoing process. You're always observing. That's what an actor does. I also believe in a formal education. My college experience was wonderful, I really recommend that.

blondiecenter_15 asks: What was your favorite episode?

Lauren: I enjoyed the episodes with Sami's comeuppance. I remember the showdown where I revealed what Sami was up to. That was good. I've had a lot of episodes that I've really enjoyed. I really like the one with John Aniston where where I smashed the dishes. I really liked that. It was the essence of what she was feeling. She was really letting her true feelings come out.

hootergirl4life asks: Is there any weird story lines you would like to see done with your character and another character that no one would expect?

Lauren: See that's why I'm an actress and not a writer becuase I don't know. I'd like to be a twin!

sassy_redhead_0912 asks: You are so young looking, how do you stay looking so young?

Lauren: Oh thank you so much. I love you sassy redhead! I don't know. I don't think there are any secrets. Stay out of the sun and use sunscreen to protect your skin. I try to excercise and eat right. I'm on the Blood Type Diet and it's really worked for me. I thought I was type O, but then it turns out I'm type A! It was a disaster but now it's all ok. It's pretty much a vegitarian diet. Eat Right for Your Type is the name of the book.

my_sensual_mind asks: What music do you like listening to? Who are your favorite current artists?

Lauren: I hate to admit this but I have the soundtrack to Gladiator. The music is really good. It's really wonderful. Janet Jackson is great. Alanis Morissette's last one. I still put Jagged Little Pill in too. I'm big on soundtracks, like the Almost Famous soundtrack.

boogerbarbiedolly1 asks: You made a CD?

Lauren: Yes I did. When I was on promotional public appearances in Egypt. I have a friend who helped me put together a CD and I did sing. I'm thinking of putting it out. I sing Rock and Roll. It's really pretty funny, I'm there in my black fringe leather. It was kind of a fantasy thing.

steviebond2 asks: What school do you recommend for studying acting?

Lauren: Well, it's hard to say. It depends on the person's situation. If you are in high school, talk to your counselor. There are some great schools across the country, like Juliard. I would steer away from 'how to audition' type classes. But do take dance classes and train your body. Certainly do theater. I just think it's very important to understand the tradition of theater. Do the classics!

tomdebg asks: Do you have your Christmas shopping done?

Lauren: It's terrible because I haven't even started. I'm busy writing out Christmas cards for the fan club.

mattes511 asks: Lauren, do you watch much television? What are your favorite shows?

Lauren: No, I don't watch that much. I really enjoy The Sopranos and Sex and the City. I watch a lot of movie channels.

ja_38b6 asks: Kate when is Lucas going to grow up and act like a man? He seems to hide behind you a lot.

Lauren: That sounds like Kate talking. Sooner than you think.

delissina asks: What do you want for Christmas?

Lauren: I already have my Christmas present, my mom and dad are out visiting us. That was the best Christmas present I could get this year. It's really been great for my family to be together.

cinnamondlo asks: How can we find out about your fan club?

Lauren: The adress: to Debbie O'Conner... If you drop her the note, she'll send you the application and fill you in on all the goodies.

katie338 asks: How many days a week do you usually work?

Lauren: I probably average 3 days a week. Sometimes it's one day sometimes it's five days. I get up around 5 am and I get to work around 7. I get my hair done and I do my makeup. At 8 we go over blocking and then we go back and we get ready. We tape out of sequence so I may be up at 9 and out at 12, or sometimes I come in later in the day to start that same process.

mae_2000ca asks: How do you think Phillip will react when he learns how you really are?

Lauren: Now that thought terrifies Kate. Losing her children, that's really the biggest fear she has. I think unfortunately for Kate right now that she feels fairly secure with Phillip and that could be a problem for Kate. But Phillip doens't know the other side and since he's so young, he might not understand. Lucas knows all about her though and that's why they're so close. They've been through a lot. I think it could be the most difficult with Austin and Phillip.

cutebrunettegirl asks: What kind of exercise do you like to do?

Lauren: Well, I don't like to do any excercise. Thankfully I really love to horseback ride. I have a horse that is in training right now. I do enjoy stretching and I would like to start doing yoga one day.

cactusbrain2000 asks: I hear you give to lots of charities, what are your favorite charities?

Lauren: This is a hard one to answer. I am getting involved with some about race horses.

wolf_cub23 asks: Do you have any children, if so are any interested in acting?

Lauren: Yes I have two children, a 10 year old daughter and a 12 year old son. Neither of them have shown much interest. My son recently took a drama class and when he was 6 months old he was my son on Bold and the Beautiful! So we might have a budding actor in the family.

ugk_cc asks: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Lauren: I plan on acting. I would love to do some work in independent films. Character acting where people would not even recognize me would really connect me more to my theater roots. I'm thinking of getting behind the camera a bit. I'm really itching to try out directing myself.

sheik_mabooty asks: Hey, what would you rather be: a well paid actor in cruddy movies or a low paid actor in a popular soap?

Lauren: If you're a well paid actor does it have to be in a cruddy movie? I would have loved to have been in American Beauty in the company of actors and a director like that in a role that stretches you.

katedimera asks: Here's one I'm totally lost on. Why does Kate always insist that she's flat broke without Victor's money? The character was already successful prior to returning after the Bill Horton affair.

Lauren: Now Kate you're being too logical! I've said this myself; I find it very hard to believe that Kate is penniless. As an actress, I always have my own private thoughts and I think Kate's lying! Would she really let anyone know if she had a stash hidden away? I think her poverty really did mark her and I think security is really important to her. Nothing would ever be enough.

labidebones asks: How do you feel about the direction of your story line?

Lauren: I think the story is heading in a direction that's pretty exciting. Things that have been happening to Kate have been happening for a reason. She's being tested and there is a reason that it's all leading up to something. It'll be really challenging for me as an actress. We're going to see some other sides of Kate too. She's really going to struggle.

Mandy7872 asks: You hate Sami on the show. How do you and her portrayer Allison Sweeney get along in real life?

Lauren: Ali and I get along great. We have fun doing what we do and we love playing villans. We really enjoy it.

Lauren: I want to wish everyone a wonderful holiday. I hope you all stay tuned because the upcoming storylines are really exciting. It's really going to rock. I have this poster and I hope you like it. We're going to have a series of them and I'm working on my correspondence! If someone's expecting a letter it's on the way. Also I want to thank Jan for the roses. I love you all. Thank you so much for your support. It's been a lot of fun.

Reading an old interview with Jerry Douglas and he states that he thinks the John/Mamie romance should never have been done as he couldn't see how John could suddenly see Mamie as a love interest after so many years as an employee and trusted friend.

He also states that Bill Bell wishes he hadn't made Ashley Brent's daughter rather than John's.He says that Brenda Dickson was Jill in real life and no comparison with Jess.

So Considine was cast before Cooper. Way back in this thread,there was mention(I think) that Phillip appeared before Katherine though I can't see how that would play. Phillip being younger than Katherine could have been worked into the story and made her seem more desperate. I can't think of anyone else who was recast on Y&R until Espy,Houghton and Lynde left.

I am intrigued by the character of Theresa and wonder how long she was around.In just a few lines of dialogue, we got the sense that she was closely attached to Mrs C. I wonder if Bill Bell was thinking of setting up a rivalry between her and Jill.It would have added another dimension to the story. Did Bill tire of Sally or did Lee Crawford want to leave? When she was brought back in the early 80's nothing much came of it. Imagine if she hooked up with Greg and became part of the Foster family.Greg would have become a father figure to Snapper's son and all sorts of angst could have played out.

Kathryn Hays impresses me very much in those 79 episodes. That scene between her and Larry B has so many layers.

Would love to see her as originally written by Irna. From what I have read she was a very different character.

Interesting that she was not accepted as Leslie on GL and was replaced. How long before she went to ATWT?

Fantastic to see that very first time Jill entered the mansion.

Interesting that Katherine was referred to as Kaye by Phillip and even when talking to herself.I remember Jill later calling her Kaye, but that was dropped over the years. I think Derek also called her Kaye.

I expected to see John Considine with a moustache a la Reginald Love and his replacement. Hard to judge his Phillip in such a short scene. I wonder why he was dropped?

The Chancellor house was probably the first major new set since the show debuted.The camera really pulled back to show it off.

Was it Pat Carroll playing Jill's co-worker?

Pierre, Greg and Phillip had it easy that day with only a few lines each.

I think the show took off because Bill Bell knew how to package a tightly focussed 30 min soap.By the time the 80's rolled around the 1 hr shows involved so many unrelated characters and storylines that that intense feeling was lost even with Y&R.I guess Bell felt it too and introduced the Abbotts to contrast the Williams and get back to families.

I think Wyndham and Watson probably had it in their contracts that they would always get top billing as the 'stars' of the show.

Dustin Hoffman appeared on Secret Storm in a New York street scene playing a thug. James Broderick and Roy Scheider were also in that scene.

In the ATWT thread,Dean Santoro states that he was temporary replacement for Marco St John in the role of Paul Stewart before he took over the role in Sept 69.

Catching up on posts...

Dean Santoro - another confirmed bachelor with 'a definite feel for decorating'

Watching the 79 clips I'm surprised how much Chris and Nancy feature - I can see why Helen Wagner quit as obviously the Dobsons cut down their appearances and importance.

Interesting to see the Hughes living room in the ep where Kim and Dana come for dinner.I had wondered if it had stopped being used at some point cos all I ever saw was the kitchen.Had to laugh that they were eating dinner off their laps-no dining table at the Hughes.Anyway the set looked a little different than what I had seen in the 50's and 60's pics. The staircase in particular.

Still waiting for a glimpse of Carol.

Soap Opera Digest reports back in the August 76 issue that Jennifer Leak would be joining the show (Olive Gordon) and also Lynn Lowery ex How To Survive a Marriage.

Lowery never appeared so was the role dropped or did another actress take over? Any ideas what role it may have been?

Yes, his character was Oliver and was never developed.He worked with the original Melissa (Debbie Lytton).The writers made Gwen his sister.She was getting involved with Don and it was revealed she was sleeping out of her office.The cleaning woman was revealed to be her mother Esther.Hot shot singer Woody King was another brother, and the family had splintered due to trying to escape their criminal dad Orby Jensen.It seemed like a desperate move to tie these characters together and was never followed through.

According to Jason's page Oliver was on 31 times in 82 and 43 times in 83 which is quite a bit but I can't recall in what context.