Another World Discussion Thread

[jmgaw]

I liked the concept of the Mary/Reginald story. Casting Denise Alexander as Mary was a terrific decision by the parties involved. The casting of John Considine as Reginald was a good move. I really liked him in the role.  As the story played out, many issues came to the forefront.

To begin with, Duke Stroud was a mediocre choice as Vince McKinnon. Then, Julie Osborn, Sally Spencer were gone a year later. So, Mary's family disappeared. Kristin Marie (Cheryl McKinnon), although totally gorgeous, was not a good actress. By late 1987, Cheryl was the only child of Vince and Mary on the canvas. Robert Hogan, replacing Duke Stroud as Vince McKinnon, improved the chemistry between he and Denise Alexander.  

On the Love front, Anna Stuart leaving in 1986 didn't help either. The character of Donna hated Reginald. Had Stuart stayed, I think the drama could have been compelling.

Too many cast changes killed a great story.

[Tisy-Lish]

Well, in reality nearly all male serial killers who target women are extremely sexist individuals. And their actions and motivations are based on their extreme sexist views. Any writer penning such a plot would do a disservice to the audience if they did not explore the extreme sexism that is part of most serial killers' motivations.  Unless one is writing some kind of fairy-tale serial killer, sexism is always going to be a big part of the plot.  

[Contessa Donatella]

Maybe it was just me but I found him to be the weak link & by the end I was really turned off by how much "moustache twirling" he was doing. Loved Robert Hogan's Vince, but only he was excellent in that role. A lot of people here seem to think Denise would have fared better as a different character in a totally different story but I loved her as Marisa/Mary. 

(I first loved her as Susan Hunter Martin 1970-ish DAYS & followed her to GH & then back here, just a big fan.)

I guess I never considered it that level of a failure. To me it was a limited success.

[DRW50]

I do wonder if it was ever really explored, beyond him just being a psycho who went around punishing "bad" women. The other stories at the time didn't seem to have all that different a view of women than he did, based on the treatment of MJ.

[Xanthe]

Unfortunately I think in addition to the cast turnover, the story was hampered because it didn't try to give characters enough depth and it didn't build up strong networks of relationships. Which made it easy to write useful characters out permanently when their romances fell apart instead of shifting focus.  

I don't think the Sin Stalker's view of women was even internally consistent. He was killing prostitutes and then escalated to killing businesswomen he deemed slutty as well as Nancy's ex-boyfriend Greg. Ultimately it was revealed that he did this because he had been obsessed with Lisa Grady since she was a teenager and her slutty mother had been his patient. Ultimately he abducted Lisa and would have raped her except she revealed to him that she had been raped before and was therefore not the desirable virgin he had fantasized about. That is not a realistic serial killer story.  

[Jdee43]

I think Margaret DePriest's first head writing stint was a very low point for the show, especially late 1986 to mid 1987. Trying to inject life into AW with a serial killer story never worked; AW wasn't that kind of show. There were also some poor casting choices during this time, with Vicky & Nicole miscast, letting go of Nancy, and long time characters like Larry & Clarice disappearing or, like Quinn, getting killed off. 

For me, the final nail in the coffin was 1988, with letting Lemay go after the strike. That told you all you needed to know about how P&G felt about the show. Bringing in scab Donna Swajeski, presumably at less pay, was a terrible choice. Swajeski is a mediocre writer at best. She might have been boringly competent, but she was never going to make a show special. AW might have had a renaissance in 1989 had P&G kept Lemay. 

[Contessa Donatella]

Anne Heche began playing Vicky July 1987. Are you considering that a miscast? Or are you referring to the fortunately brief time just prior to that?

Xanthe, I need to agree to disagree with you. It's not that I think the Sin Stalker thought correctly about women, girls, Lisa, other victims. It's that I believe that to be par for the course for serial killers. 

[watson71]

You are correct.  It would have been interesting to see his version of the Jason Frame murder and courtroom fallout, the 25th Anniversary celebration, and Mac’s death.  

[Contessa Donatella]

I’ve got a back issue of Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999: Rachel and Carl renew their wedding vows on Wednesday, June 23rd…As Cass and Lila’s nuptials get under way, an unexpected visitor disrupts the event on Friday, June 25th, AW’s final episode. AW’s Carl and Rachel share an emotional moment.

Editor’s Note: Dear Readers, How do you pay tribute to a show like ANOTHER WORLD? We couldn’t possibly encapsulate 35 years of history as rich and complex as AW’s. There are fans who have fallen in love, gotten married, had children and retired, all with AW reassuringly in the background. It has comforted, entertained and inspired them. So it seemed inappropriate to offer you a standard tribute. Instead, we got personal. We went to the set for the very last taping, so you’ll know what that final, bittersweet day was like. (see page 26) We talked to stars, past and present, about what memories they’ll carry with them always, and what messages they’d like to send you, their fans (see page 76). Especially poignant is a diary kept by one of AW’s producers, which he started the day the news of the cancellation broke (see page 86). He recounts those shell-shocked, roller-coaster weeks after the announcement, filled with anxiety, false hope, surprising humor and camaraderie. It’s an intimate look at a trying time, handle with courage and class. While there’s nothing we can do to bring back ANOTHER WORLD, I hope this issue helps you remember it always.Lynn Leahey Editor-in-Chief Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999

pg. 26. Behind the Scene. Behind every great scene is a backstage story! So Long, Farewell. When ANOTHER WORLD taped its final episode, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. It was a day of mixed emotions when the entire cast of ANOTHER WORLD assembled on May 25 to tape the show’s final episode, set to air on June 25. While the on-screen action was joyous — Bay City celebrated Cass and Lila’s wedding — off-screen, more than a few tears were shed. From the outset, it was obvious that it wasn’t just another day at work. Outside, more than 50 anxious fans were pressed up against the windows of the lobby at AW’s Brooklyn studio. Inside, there were fragrant bouquets of lilies, roses and tulips. “It looks like a funeral parlor in here, ” sighed AW Fan Club President Mindi Shulman. After a morning of taping, actors took a lunch break down in the green room, hungrily devouring sandwiches and salads. The mood wasn’t particularly depressing ….. yet. “We have been trying to keep it together,” explained Elaine R. Graham (Etta Mae), but I doubt that it will last. Linda (Dano, Felicia) started crying early this morning on the set. Then, one of the stage managers started crying.” After lunch, the cast assembled upstairs in Studio 2. One-third of the space had been transformed into a park-like setting, complete with grass, trees, flowers, and a backdrop of cloudless, blue sky. Lila (Lisa Peluso) emerged in a strapless white gown with a long scarf. Cass (Staphen Schnetzer) awaited her at the end of the aisle. On the lawn sat all of Bay City’s leading residents. That’s when it got tough. Boxes of tissues were passed around between takes as the actors dabbed at their eyes and consoled one another with long hugs. Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999

pg. 27. “She’s crying!” Dano shouted at one point when unscripted tears began rolling down Judi Evans Luciano’s (Paulina) face. “I am not!” Luciano insisted. Despite the overwhelming sadness, taping ran smoothly. “As far as doing the show, everything’s the same today, “observed Cameraman Thomas K. Hogan. “But it’s on a much bigger level. Everywhere you turn, there’s a tear in someone’s eye. People are signing each other’s ANOTHER WORLD: 35th Anniversary Celebration books with nice things.” The mood really took a dive after the wedding scenes wrapped. Dano and Schnetzer hugged. After 17 years acting together, they had performed their last scenes as best pals Felicia and Cass. “There’s a sweet sadness to today,” Schnetzer quietly noted. From there it was on to Studio 1 and the Cory living room for a scene featuring Rachel (Victoria Wyndham) and Carl (Charles Keating). Executive Producer Christopher Goutman escorted a visibly pale and shaking Wyndham, the show’s longest-running performer, to the set. Audible sobs could be heard as everyone watched AW’s final scene When the cameras were turned off at about 8:30 p.m., glasses of champagne were poured and, surprisingly, a party-like atmosphere broke out. It was obvious that the cast and crew wanted to treasure their final moments together. “I’ll miss all my buddies,” Luciano cried. And we’ll miss all of you! (Editor’s Note: See page 76 for a special tribute to AW.) Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999.

NBC Gossip ANOTHER WORLD The End of the World: After completing her final scene In AW’s last tape date, May 25 Nadine Stenovitch (Josie) couldn’t hold back the tears. It’s the last time I’m going to see them. It seems really unreal.’ she sighed. There are some really good people in this building. It’s such a shame. Everyone’s so talented. …Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999.

It’s Only My Opinion by Carolyn Hinsey One of the reasons I’m enjoying ANOTHER WORLD so much is that it’s moving so fast. It’s refreshing to have something happen in every episode. Of course, soaps that aren’t canceled don’t have that luxury because they would churn through story too fast. But it’s something to think about in these days of trying to grab new viewers with short attention spans. Action! Then reaction!

pg. 26 Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999. Jonathan Sharp (Sergei) solemnly surveyed bouquets of flowers sent by fans.pg. 27 Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999. A bittersweet “reception” took place after taping was completed.pg. 27, Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999. Felicia (Linda Dano) was best “man” at Cass (Stephen Schnetzer) and Lila’s (Lisa Peluso) wedding. Also pictured: Matt (Matt Crane) with baby Jasmine.(born October 22nd)Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999,

pg. 27-28.”My whole time here has been a fabulous experience. I had a blast doing the baby-birthing scenes in the elevator. I really enjoyed some of the Cass and Lila park scenes where Cass proposed. Just having Matt Crane (Matt) return has been a delight.” – Lisa Peluso (Lila, 1997-present)” I was 20 when I first joined the show. When I think of ANOTHER WORLD , That’s what my mind goes to because for me that was the start of it. It has grown and changed and done funny things. It’s too bad that it’s going off, but everything has a life cycle. It lasted a lot longer than most shows do.” – Matt Crane (Matt, 1988-97; 1998-present)

“My favorite was when Grant and Cindy were first married and figuring out that they could either kill each other or love each other. They committed to both equally. I formed a great partnership with such an incredible actor, Mark (Pinter, ex-Grant). I was very very lucky to have had that, to have been able to just play.” – Kim Rhodes (Cindy, 1996-present) My friendship with Stephen Schnetzer (Cass) and Anna Holbrook (ex-Sharlene) are very important to me. In terms of episodes, my first year was so much fun because (Frankie and Cass) were still wild and crazy. And, of course, the black-and-white episodes and heaven — heaven was a big one. I have lots and lots of cherished memories. (Cass and Frankie’s) weddings were beautiful. I could go on and on. I’m sure everyone here could go on and on about their favorite things. “-Alice Barrett-Mitchell (Anne 1999; Frankie, 1989-96)

“My favorite episode is the film noir fantasy that we did in black-and-white with Joe and Paulina in Joe and Frankie’s private eye office. The *Casablanca* take-off. I did the Humphrey Bogart voice. I was brand-new on the show and I thought, “This is the coolest place in the world to be!” The telethon episode where Joe was singing Elvis was fun.” – Joseph Barbara (Joe, 1995-present)

pg. 50 Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999. Classic Lines. ANOTHER WORLD (Illegal alien Sergei has trouble with the English language — and the law.) Sergei: “When the immigration officers find me, I’m going to be a sitting goose.” Felicia (correcting) “Duck.” Sergei: “Oh! (ducking down) They’re coming!”

pg. 78 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. Paulina went to San Cristobal in 1993 and got the hots for both Jake (Tom Eplin) and Ian (Julian McMahon.) pg. 78 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. Cindy (Kim Rhodes) tried to kill Grant (Mark Pinter), then married him in 1997. pg. 78 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. Lila (Lisa Peluso) gave birth to her and Matt’s (then Jeff Phillips) baby. Jasmine, in an elevator in 1998, Oct. 22nd.pg. 77 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. Felicia (Linda Dano) wed Sergei (Jonathan Sharp) in 1999 to prevent the ailing “Russian immigrant” from being deported. pg. 78 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. Matt (Matt Crane) and Josie’s Alexandra Wilson) romance didn’t sit well with moms Rachel and Sharlene in 1988.

pg. 77 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. Cass (Stephen Schnetzer) and Frankie (Alice Barrett-Mitchell) honeymooned on the Orient Express after they were married in 1993.pg. 77 Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999. Joe (Joseph Barbara) and Paulina (Judi Evans Luciano) were instantly attracted to each other when they met in 1995.

pg. 77 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. After the truck she was riding in exploded, Vicky was briefly reunited with Ryan (Paul Michael Valley) in heaven in 1997.pg. 76 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. Donna’s (Anna Stuart) meddling in her daughters’ lives landed Marley (Ellen Wheeler) in the hospital in 1998.pg. 76 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. In 1998, Jake (Tom Eplin) was crushed when Vicky (Jensen Buchanan) admitted to a rendezvous with Shane.pg. 76 Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999. In 1993, a lovestruck Carl (Charles Keating) romanced Rachel (Victoria Wyndham) in New York City. The two shared a midnight kiss on New Year’s Eve.pg. 26 Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999. Jonathan Sharp (Sergei) solemnly surveyed bouquets of flowers sent by fans. Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999,

pg. 76. Another World: A Tribute (1964-99) It’s been 35 glorious years since ANOTHER WORLD first aired on television screens on May 4, 1964. The creation of Irna Phillips and William J. Bell, AW was NBC’s longest-running soap. Now, as the venerable serial goes off the air, members of the cast reflect on what made WORLD such an inviting and unforgettable place. “People go to different coasts, they have different hours, so it’s one of those horrible things to know that as much as you might want to, you’re not going to be able to catch up with people. That is certainly what I will miss. It’s the people here who have made this place bearable.” – Victoria Wyndham (Rachel, 1972-present)”I’ve done everything from getting married to getting divorced in this building. My first time living alone in a big city in this building, everything. I think the walls of this studio are as big a deal to me as the people are.” – Tom Eplin (Jake McKinnon, (1985-86; 1988-present) ANOTHER WORLD has been there through all my trials and tribulations of my life. It’s been this huge support system for me. My favorite times on whole were with Michael. But Matt’s pony tail was fun. (And Anna did have trials and tribulations. That’s why it’s so nice she is with such a gentleman now!) Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999

pg. 77. “I’ve loved the run and the support of the fans . Now it’s time to look to the future and forward.”- Jensen Buchanan (VIcky, 1991-present) The years that Paulina was with Jake were like riding a rollercoaster. Working with Tommy (Eplin), you never knew what’s going to happen next. It made the next years after Tommy with Joe (Barbara), Joe as great because I was already in that mode, It’s been a blissful eight years. I remember getting to play Vicky for the first time. For six months I had been playing just Marley. I went up to hair and makeup and got all changed. The first time I came downstairs, I was the same person that I had been a half-hour before, but I was treated *completely* differently. I was in tight jeans and had makeup on. Before, if a crew member swore in front of me, they would apologize. Nobody made jokes with sexual innuendoes or anything like that in front of me when I was playing Marley. But when I played Vicky, it was different It was such a great lesson to me about how we judge people. It taught me not to judge.” – Ellen Wheeler (Vicky/Marley, 1984-86; Marley, 1998-present)

I’ll miss my family at ANOTHER WORLD a lot. In November, when I signed the new contract, I had an opportunity to leave the show and do something else. I said no, because I wanted to go down with the show if it went down. So I am exactly where I want to be right now. As painful as this is, I’m where I want to be. I’m shoulder to shoulder with my mates and all the people I have loved and all the memories and the history. ” – Linda Dano (Felicia, 1982-present)Cass’s manic-depression storyline was a high point.

The Frankie years were special; the shenanigans with Cecile were fun. She kidnapped Cass to be her love slave, and he pretended he was having a bad time. I loved the comic hijinks of the Wallingford/Cass/Felicia triangle, too.” -Stephen Schnetzer (Cass, 1982-present)Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999: pg. 77. “I’ve loved the run and the support of the fans!

“It’s amazing to watch people handle the cancellation of ANOTHER WORLD with such dignity. It really is. They are sort of understanding the way it went, but not agreeing with it.” – David Andrew Macdonald (Jordan, 1998-May 1999; David, 1998-present)” Personally, for me, it was just an incredible experience to finally get a taste of the good life and to learn how to perform for television.” – Michael Rodrick (Cameron, 1998-present)”Certainly, the most fun by far has been working with Linda (Dano, Felicia), She sharpened my teeth to the medium and to performance. I have found such a depth and acceptance in her eyes and in her presence. There has been nothing that has not been fun.” – Jonathan Sharp (Sergei, 1999)”The things that I enjoyed most being here was the closeness of everyone. Everyone’s been just amazing.” – Troy Hall (Tito, 1998-99)pg. 80-81: Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999: “What I will remember most is having Tom Eplin (Jake) take my pants off (as a prank) while I was doing lines. Standing naked in dry rehearsal in front of all of my peers. But, I just kept going. I pulled my pants up. I was a little humiliated because it was early in the morning and I had just come out of a cold shower (laughs). But I proved him wrong.” – Mark Mortimer (Nick, 1996-present)”When I got the job, NBC was still going on the air live. They used to have this logo (the NBC peacock) that started out the show. We’re about to go on-air my first day. I am doing a scene with the incredible Constance Ford (ex-Ada) and Jordan Charney (ex-Sam). I was on my mark, and I was supposed to cross to her. So the stage manager goes, “Okay, everybody, quiet. We’re ready to go on the air. The bird is loose. ‘ My name is Robin. I thought, ‘Okay, he means I should start acting.’ I leave my mark and start crossing to Connie Ford. She’s like ‘No! Go back!’ As I’m backing up, he’s going, ‘Five, four, three, two…’ and I barely make it back to the mark when I have to start right back to her. The look on Connie’s face was like, ‘Oh my God! The kid’s not going to make it!’ – Robin Strasser (Rachel, 1967-1971; 1972)

pg. 86: Soap Opera Digest, June 29, 1999: The Last Days of ANOTHER WORLD. by R. Scott Collishaw. When AW was cancelled, we asked Producer R. Scott Collishaw — who had been with the soap for 13 years –to keep a diary of its last days. Fasten your seat belts — it was a bumpy ride.April 12, 1999 At about 1:15 p.m. a call comes to our Executive Producer Chris Goutmaan from the head of NBC Daytime: “Chris, Susan Lee, on the line.” A few minutes later, the announcement comes over the PA system. “Everyone, please report to Studio 1 immediately. Chris has an announcement to make.” No one spoke. I appropriately enough, stood right next to the grandfather clock in the Cory living room — and next to Victoria Wyndham (Rachel).”It’s bad news,” said, Chris. We’ve been cancelled. ” Dead silence. He took a breath. “I’m going to try to get through this… I just received a call from Susan Lee. We are going off the air June 25. SUNSET BEACH has gotten a six-month pick-up. She said we don’t fit the profile NBC wants for its daytime lineup.” At that, a loud guffaw erupted from M Wyndham. Chris went on. “I know this is hard.But, we must be proud of what we have accomplished here. You people are the best, and have worked too hard, too long to give up now. So let’s take this show out with our heads held high. “(P&G honcho) Mickey Dwyer-Dobbin then spoke briefly, fighting back tears, saying how proud Procter & Gamble was of us. We file out of the studio in shock, some people crying. I go outside with Vicky to have a cigarette. “This decision was made a long time ago, she said, “The fight is over.” April 14, 1999 We had scheduled a cast photo shoot before the announcement, and we all thought we should go through with it. The final photo of the final cast of ANOTHER WORLD. I began to round up the actors. “All right, people, “I shouted, “the sooner we get started, the sooner we can all go home.” “What if we don’t want to go home??” someone muttered.pg. 87 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. “That was it. Suddenly we all felt the weight of what we were doing. Watching the actors smile and pose for the last time, I have never been as proud. There was a lot of laughing. And, a lot of off-color jokes. most at the expense of a certain network. We got through it. April 16, 1999 The buzz has begun. Everyone is talking about ABC or some other cable network picking up the show. I don’t want to get my hopes up. Calls come in from people I haven’t spoken to in years. Former cast members, producers, directors, writers, friends, members of the press I have come to love. Everyone says the same thing. “Why”? Your show is higher-rated than the other show. It doesn’t make sense.” Note to anyone who goes through this in the future: Don’t ask questions like this. It just makes it harder on those of us who are supposed to know, but are asking ourselves the same thing. April 21, 1999 Breakfast with my agent. He says I will work again. He doesn’t say as what. April 24, 1999 Today is the Fan Club Luncheon. I have been to each one for the last 12 years, except last year, after the firing of Charles Keating (Carl). We all had such mixed feelings, and the fans were so upset. This year was different. We *all* wanted to express our hurt and anger. Vicky started the ball rolling with a rousing speech about how the fate of the show was in their hands. Keep writing, faxing and emailing ABC (urging pickup), she said. I was dubious but it made everyone feel better. She then passed the microphone to each of the actors and asked them to say a few words. It was torture. Each actor spoke, some eloquently –Ellen Wheeler (Marley) — some from the heart — Anna Stuart (Donna) and Stephen Schnetzer (Cass). And many through tears, like Jensen Buchanan (VIcky), who made me cry. Henry Simmons (Tyrone) blew everyone away. He was so emotional. I just let the tears course down my cheeks. Hey — it was Saturday. I could just be a fan. Later, Chris Goutman invited us to go around the corner to a local pub. He has been so sensitive and caring with all of us and taken such a personal interest in our futures. It was good to be together. We drank.pg. 88 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. April 28, 1999. with Paulina, Joe, Remy, Nick, Toni, and Josie. It is when Paulina is being arrested for Grant’s murder. All of the actors are giving it their all. The scene runs the gamut.: tears, anger, fear, urgency, and conflict. The actors were so charged up. It’s almost as if they are afraid not to do justice to the work. The scene ends. There is silence in the booth and on the floor. I turn to Chris Goutman and say, “Should we send a copy of this scene to NBC?” “Why”? he asks. “To show them what great soap opera is all about.” (He laughs). May 4, 1999 Happy 35th Anniversary — surprisingly, a day like all others.The party this evening was simple, low-key and tinged with much sadness. All the major players were there; P&G executives, the press, most of the actors, staff, and crew people. It was simply for us. No guests. It was nice for us to have a chance to remember, to celebrate, and to honor 35 years of rich history. There were speeches, of course.Ms. Wyndham delivered an elaborate metaphor about a cockroach living in her dressing room for 27 years. I’m afraid many found it to be an odd choice for her farewell address, but I found it funny and appropriate . A cockroach. Finally killed.pg. 88 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. May 6, 1999A new game has begun at the studio. It’s called, “Who will find work?” The rumors are coming so fast it is hard to keep up. Linda Dano (Felicia) is telling everyone that she wants to be Ally McBeal’s mother. Is David E. Kelly listening? The buzz has Tom Eplin (Jake), Jensen Buchanan (VIcky), Lisa Peluso (Lila), and Steve Schnetzer (Cass) going to ATWT. Smart move. I feel like an overprotectant parent. However, who will remember the rich history of these characters years from now? Oh, sure, they will probably have a whole new set of dramatic situations and a new audience to fall in love with them. I will watch. And, I will not forget. Cass and Frankie. Vicky and Ryan. Lila and Matt. Jake and Paulina. May 13, 1999 Soap Opera Digest is doing a cover shoot to commemorate our last week on the air. They have sent over a spread of food and a beautiful anniversary cake. The photographer suggests that the actors hold the cake as a group. The best-laid plans … One of our veterans had a different idea. She suggests tossing the cake in the air. “See how happy we are about this? We’re going to toss this cake on the floor so everyone knows we are really angry.” It was a moment to rebel and we’ve had precious few opportunities to rebel,. And a fitting metaphor. A cake — smashed on the floor. Except now we can’t eat it. pg. 89, June 29, 1999. As the actors approached their final lines in the scene., Tom did what he usually does.: He surprised us. His final lines were unscripted and from his heart. Don’t miss them. They’re beautiful. By the time we got to the Cory living room, there were over 100 people on the studio floor to watch the final moments of ANOTHER WORLD. Vicky Wyndham carried the weight of the moment with grace and dignity and, yes, tears. It was painful and beautiful at the same time. After it was done, Ms. Wyndham gave a lovely speech, imploring us to all remain friends and remember what we had done here, and to move on to the next greater thing. We toasted with champagne and partied in the Cory living room. No one wanted to leave. “We do not live in this world alone, but in a thousand different worlds.” Sadly, our world just got a little smaller. When I left the building for the last time, I did not look back. I didn’t need to. I will carry it all right here, in my heart. For the rest of my life!Pg. 88-89 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. May 14, 1999 We have a neighborhood barbecue, with great food and carnival games. The mood is dampened by the sense of impending doom. An unusual coincidence during our final days has been the release of the ANOTHER WORLD: 35th Anniversary Celebration book by Julie Poll. People have been clutching the book as a lifeline, the way high school seniors revere their yearbooks, At the barbecue, many were circulating with their books, asking everyone to sign. What does one write? “Have a great summer. Stay just the way you are. See you in the real world. ” It feels so insignificant compared to the harsh reality of our show about to end so abruptly. Oh well. Have a great summer. Stay just the way you Are. See you in the real world.Pg. 89 Soap Opera Digest June 29, 1999. May 21, 1999 Emmy Night I did not expect to go, but I did. It was great! The last 10 minutes anyway. When Shemar Moore (Malcolm, Y&R) announced Susan Lucci’s (Erica, AMC) name, I can honestly say I now understand the meaning of raising the roof. The energy, the spontaneous combustion in that auditorium is something I will never forget. Here we all are feeling sorry for ourselves — no mention was made of of our show’s cancellation aside from Linda Dano’s and Stephen Schnetzer’s unscripted asides — yet suddenly there was something really honest and heartfelt to root for. Patience and hard work *can* be rewarded. My faith is restored. Congratulations, Susan!

[My note: That year GH won Best Show & bless her heart, the first thing Wendy Riche said once she had the statue & turned to the mic was, something like “God Bless all the people out in Brooklyn with AW today!”]

[DRW50]

Very classy of Wendy. 

I can't see Lemay lasting long, but you do wonder what might have been. I would normally say you can't go back, because you usually can't on soaps, but his brief return was so damn good.

What impressed me most was the very strong individual scenes which popped up, especially surrounding Matt learning the truth about his conception. It would take a number of years for that to happen again in one story - I'd say Felicia's alcoholism.

Edited Sunday at 08:37 AM by DRW50

[Contessa Donatella]

YES!!! I was suitably impressed. A fine person & leader. 

[jmgaw]

The Sin Stalker story had a great finish. The revelation of Dr. Alan Glaser being the Sin Stalker concluded the story with a nice twist. David O'Brien gave a good performance as the mentally disturbed Dr. Glaser. 

[Contessa Donatella]

I'm sure part of the reason I like it better than later serial killers was because of David O'Brian, brilliant on the Doctors as Steve & excellent as this killer/shrink. 

[chrisml]

I liked Cheryl Marie. She was quite charming and I enjoyed her romance with Scott until they saddled him with Dawn. I also liked Sally Spencer, but my word she got stuck with terrible writing as MJ. Hank Cheyne was such an untapped resource on AW. IT still annoys me that execs did not see his potential. 

I don't know if Harding Lemay could have saved the show as headwriter, but he could have worked as a story consultant. Swajeski had some wonderful ideas, but her follow through (especially her endings) was not always the best. Her pacing was often off as well.

The destruction of Nicole really irked me as the Cass/Nicole was the main storyline for a while. I was invested in that. I even liked the Rex/Cass storyline and then it was all over and Nicole was shipped off. It's this kind of stuff that alienates viewers because the audience gets invested in a storyline or characters and then a new EP comes in, scraps it, and tells the audience that their time was not worth investing.

[Contessa Donatella]

There is just NO doubt that the absurd level of exec turnover at AW, ATWT & GL beginning in the early to mid-90s & continuing on until .... damaged the creative product. 

Apparently Pete made a boatload of money as a story consultant. He was a story consultant, sitting there, listening, watching while JFP pitched Felicia-John-Sharlene to Dano, Forsyth & Holbrook.