Thanks to Superposter of the Year:

Annie's father, Walter Novak who will be hearing impaired, is to be played by Bob Hiltermann, a deaf actor. His first airdate is August 15th.

Of interest - Bob has played the drums since the age of 12 and now drums for the retro rock band Beethoven's Nightmare. Currently, other than television appearances, he is writing for his next album, teaching American Sign Language, and directing plays in Los Angeles and elsewhere. Previously he co-founded the MUSIGN theater company, which translates song into sign language.

I cannot wait for the storyline. It sounds good.

This should be an interesting facet to the Spike deafness storyline, and kudos for AMC casting a deaf actor in the role, makes it much more real. B&E seem to be taking an interest in Annie's backstory which I like.

Finally something interesting connected to Annie and Ryan. They have both been boring lately... I can't wait to see AMC improving!

I hope that they follow through with this and that we see everyone learning sign language!! I'm excited about this storyline...

Wow! This is great! Hopefully B&E can make this story real.

Is Spike going to be deaf permanently?

Boo, another reason I don't watch AMC any longer. Building a character around the horrible Annie is a very idiotic stupid move. How about bringing some old faves back. AMC was ruined by newbies and Essenstein & Brown are just as bad as McTavish(it appears) since they're casting so many newbies. I hope in a few months Essenstein & Brown lose their jobs as well.

This is definitely something Agnes would have done, I think, right down to casting a deaf actor. Really great idea, IMO.

My first thought was no, don't like it. Thinking about it, it makes sense & I like it. I like annie now so to delve into her past is good.

Josh... LOVE your banner!

Josh... LOVE your banner!

Thanks!! Dee from the boards made it!! She's awesome!! I love me some Kate!!!

I dunno. Unless this character comes with some interesting story for the ever boring Annie...who cares? He' deaf. Big deal.

This sounds pretty good. So far i've been loving every minute of this SL.

Josh, I love your banner too. I love Kate Howard so much!