Daytime Confidential has been doing a series of podcasts discussing all kinds of ways to improve our soap operas. There is or will be one LONG episode for each soap. Luke and the gang discuss production, writing, diversity, core families/characters/couples, etc. They also read responses from listeners sent via e-mail, the blog, or the TVFanOnline Forums. So far Bold & Beautiful, All My Children, General Hospital, Young & Restless, Guiding Light, and Days Of Out Lives are covered. I believe One Life To Live is next. Yesterday I posted a response on the blog, and I'm sharing it here. Enjoy and feel free to share your own ideas.
Head to http://www.daytimeconfidential.com to check out the entire blog and find every episode of the Daytime Confidential podcast.
10 Ways to Improve OLTL
One Life To Live has been pretty amazing since last year with Asa's death. I always look forward to watching it. But...the past few months definitely haven't been perfect (especially Marty's return). Having said that, here are my 10 improvement ideas:
10 - Show more Langston and Markko. There's more to them than just being friends and advisers to Starr & Cole.
9 - Reunite Viki and Charlie. Have them grow old together. Viki needs to settle down with Charlie and stop getting new love interests. They could be the Joe & Ruth of OLTL as long as Viki's feud with Dorian never gets watered down.
8 - Make Bo the police commissioner again. Ramsey was a terrible one, and John's not fit for the job.
7 - Carlo should follow Talia and the gang back to Llanview to wreck more havoc on the town.
6 - Kill off John McBain. He is super boring and a total waste of screen time. No one but Michael & Marcie will miss him.
5 - Let Tess have her revenge on Jared & Natalie already so that we can move on and have everyone know Tess is back.
4 - More and more RJ! He needs to be front & center and get into some trouble with the law. Or give him another club to run.
3 - Bring back Cord permanently and slowly lead him back to Tina.
2 - Reunite Bo & Nora! A Nora/Bo/Lindsay triangle would be good, though.
1 - If John isn't killed, then at least break up him & Blair and don't let Marty fall in love with Todd. That's all wrong! I don't understand Todd's motivation to hide Marty and feed her false information. Marty's return needs to be fixed! And she needs to be reunited with her son Cole.
8.28.2008
8.22.2008
HOT Summer Couples
This is a bit informal this time, and each write-up is on the short side. I wrote this as a response in the TVFanOnline Forums. You can read the entire thread here: http://forums.tvfanonline.com/index.php?showtopic=9773
Top 5 Sexy Summer Couples
5. OLTL's Antonio & Talia - Granted they're not together at the moment and their adventure in Mendorra was a lot for them to endure. (Also, I had a difficult time creating this list.) BUT they have so much heat when they are together. A few months ago when it was revealed their break-up was just a ruse, they kissed outdoors near that boat and WOW! And when they got it on at the nightclub (Ultra Violet or Capricorn?), they blew me away. It took me a while to see their chemistry, but now I do, and they are very sexy together.
4. OLTL's Rex & Gigi - From DAY ONE they have oozed chemistry. They've longed for each other for months. Every time they looked at each other, I saw that longing. And it's really sexy. I've been waiting for them to finally be together. After Gigi found Rex in 1968 and they admitted their feelings & everything, they finally kissed. It was a kiss fans have been waiting for, and it was just so hot and passionate. I believe their first love scene will be steamy because the sex between Rex/Bo and Emma was, proving that J.P Lavoisier and Farah Fath make one sexy couple.
3. GH's Alexis & Jerry - It took months for me to realize the steam these two have together, but it is there. Every kiss, touch, and look they share is HOT. Alexis's denial of wanting to be with him just made them hotter. I'm glad she finally gave in because sex is something she was needing, LOL. However, I don't want them together for the long haul; Jerry is completely wrong for Alexis. I can't buy that they have real feelings for each other. So, if they just have this sizzling casual affair, then I'm happy.
2. OLTL's Jared & Natalie - They've cooled off this summer, but before then...WOW! I recall they were pretty hot before Jared's Buchanan fraud. You could see the chemistry and tell they had the hots for each other. During the fake uncle/niece thing, it was icky. But when Jared told Natalie the truth, the heat picked up again. The sexual tension was always there, though. They were very sexy when they revealed their true feelings and made love for the first time. What a love scene! And then all the sneaking around...very wrong but very hot. They did have two recent bed scenes, so maybe their heat is rising again.
1. AMC's Jake and ANYONE - Jake in the form of Ricky Paull Goldin is SO HOT. He is sexy in every scene he's in. He has unique chemistry with everyone - family, friends, bromances, potential love interests, etc. I just love watching him. He's such a joy to watch. I think Jake would be great with Amanda, Greenlee, or Taylor. And unfortunately it has taken months for him to even be put with someone. At this point I don't care who he dates or whatever. I just want to see his sexy side. I want to see him in a steamy love scene. He is a hot doctor; all he needs to do is take his pick. I bet any woman would have him. Taylor wants him, but she just doesn't know it yet, LOL.
Top 5 Sexy Summer Couples
5. OLTL's Antonio & Talia - Granted they're not together at the moment and their adventure in Mendorra was a lot for them to endure. (Also, I had a difficult time creating this list.) BUT they have so much heat when they are together. A few months ago when it was revealed their break-up was just a ruse, they kissed outdoors near that boat and WOW! And when they got it on at the nightclub (Ultra Violet or Capricorn?), they blew me away. It took me a while to see their chemistry, but now I do, and they are very sexy together.
4. OLTL's Rex & Gigi - From DAY ONE they have oozed chemistry. They've longed for each other for months. Every time they looked at each other, I saw that longing. And it's really sexy. I've been waiting for them to finally be together. After Gigi found Rex in 1968 and they admitted their feelings & everything, they finally kissed. It was a kiss fans have been waiting for, and it was just so hot and passionate. I believe their first love scene will be steamy because the sex between Rex/Bo and Emma was, proving that J.P Lavoisier and Farah Fath make one sexy couple.
3. GH's Alexis & Jerry - It took months for me to realize the steam these two have together, but it is there. Every kiss, touch, and look they share is HOT. Alexis's denial of wanting to be with him just made them hotter. I'm glad she finally gave in because sex is something she was needing, LOL. However, I don't want them together for the long haul; Jerry is completely wrong for Alexis. I can't buy that they have real feelings for each other. So, if they just have this sizzling casual affair, then I'm happy.
2. OLTL's Jared & Natalie - They've cooled off this summer, but before then...WOW! I recall they were pretty hot before Jared's Buchanan fraud. You could see the chemistry and tell they had the hots for each other. During the fake uncle/niece thing, it was icky. But when Jared told Natalie the truth, the heat picked up again. The sexual tension was always there, though. They were very sexy when they revealed their true feelings and made love for the first time. What a love scene! And then all the sneaking around...very wrong but very hot. They did have two recent bed scenes, so maybe their heat is rising again.
1. AMC's Jake and ANYONE - Jake in the form of Ricky Paull Goldin is SO HOT. He is sexy in every scene he's in. He has unique chemistry with everyone - family, friends, bromances, potential love interests, etc. I just love watching him. He's such a joy to watch. I think Jake would be great with Amanda, Greenlee, or Taylor. And unfortunately it has taken months for him to even be put with someone. At this point I don't care who he dates or whatever. I just want to see his sexy side. I want to see him in a steamy love scene. He is a hot doctor; all he needs to do is take his pick. I bet any woman would have him. Taylor wants him, but she just doesn't know it yet, LOL.
6.21.2008
08 Emmy Winner List
The 2008 Daytime Emmy Winners
Drama Series: General Hospital
Lead Actor: Anthony Geary (Luke, GH)
Lead Actress: Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Y&R)
Supporting Actor: Kristoff St. John (Neil, Y&R)
Supporting Actress: Gina Tognoni (Dinah, GL)
Younger Actor: Tom Pelphrey (Jonathon, GL)
Younger Actress: Jennifer Landon (Gwen, ATWT)
Directing: One Life To Live
Writing: One Life To Live
Drama Series: General Hospital
Lead Actor: Anthony Geary (Luke, GH)
Lead Actress: Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Y&R)
Supporting Actor: Kristoff St. John (Neil, Y&R)
Supporting Actress: Gina Tognoni (Dinah, GL)
Younger Actor: Tom Pelphrey (Jonathon, GL)
Younger Actress: Jennifer Landon (Gwen, ATWT)
Directing: One Life To Live
Writing: One Life To Live
AMC ~ The New Jake Martin
Well, it's been almost two months now of Ricky Paull Goldin being on All My Children. How do you all like the new Jake Martin? I love him of course because I was already fan of Goldin's from Guiding Light. I've fallen more in love with him as Jake. He's working very well on AMC.
I have watched AMC for about 12 years, and I watched Goldin on GL during his entire seven-year run. As a fan of both, it's interesting to see the two merge. Ricky on AMC is really something. I saw the previous two Jakes (Michael Lowry and J. Eddie Peck). Lowry was the better out of those two, but both actors didn't bring too much to the role. Jake was always a pretty dull, good-hearted, kinda funny guy. He's always been a supporting character, never a strong role. Now, on GL Ricky was brilliant as Gus. He brought so much to the role that was always his. He made Gus an entertaining, beloved character. There were many episodes and storylines in which he blew me away with his talent. He should have won an Emmy for his time on GL. Having said all that, I knew Goldin would be amazing as Jake. I expected him to bring more spark to the role and be better in that sense than the previous portrayers. I knew he would shine as Jake.
Goldin has an energy about him that is unique and makes Jake an outstanding character. I believe Jake will become a leading character thanks to Goldin. Jake is wonderful to watch, and I can't take my eyes away when he's on screen. Goldin has so much talent, and I believed in him to revitalize Jake. From what I've seen so far he has. Jake is one to pay attention to every time he's on. It's hard to accurately describe just how amazing Jake is. And since Jake has been gone so long, it's easy to accept Goldin right away. I enjoy seeing Jake interacting with all the other characters, and I like how he's slowly being integrated into the show. Viewers never want a new face shoved at them every day. I am eager to know what Jake is hiding. He has a secret pain, and there's a lot of great potential for that. Goldin will be brilliant when Jake finally spills his guts and heart out. And there are plenty of potential stories & pairings for Jake once he's gotten through his pain & grief. Just wait until Beth Ehlers' character shows up, but that discussion is for another entry.
Goldin is a joy to watch on AMC. He has chemistry with a lot of people: romantic chemistry with Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), familial chemistry with Michael E. Knight (brother Tad) and Ray MacDonnell (dad Joe), and friendship chemistry with Aidan Turner (Aiden) and Cornelius Smith Jr (Frankie). He looks good as a doctor wearing the blue scrubs. He's funny at times like he usually was on GL. He clicks with AMC's vibe so well. I can't wait to see what he does next as Jake.
I know Goldin will continue shining on AMC, and maybe he will win an Emmy.
MY CAPTION - Jake: I don't care what you think Adam! I know I look good in these scrubs. The ladies love me!
Mmmhmm...yes, we do!
I have watched AMC for about 12 years, and I watched Goldin on GL during his entire seven-year run. As a fan of both, it's interesting to see the two merge. Ricky on AMC is really something. I saw the previous two Jakes (Michael Lowry and J. Eddie Peck). Lowry was the better out of those two, but both actors didn't bring too much to the role. Jake was always a pretty dull, good-hearted, kinda funny guy. He's always been a supporting character, never a strong role. Now, on GL Ricky was brilliant as Gus. He brought so much to the role that was always his. He made Gus an entertaining, beloved character. There were many episodes and storylines in which he blew me away with his talent. He should have won an Emmy for his time on GL. Having said all that, I knew Goldin would be amazing as Jake. I expected him to bring more spark to the role and be better in that sense than the previous portrayers. I knew he would shine as Jake.
Goldin has an energy about him that is unique and makes Jake an outstanding character. I believe Jake will become a leading character thanks to Goldin. Jake is wonderful to watch, and I can't take my eyes away when he's on screen. Goldin has so much talent, and I believed in him to revitalize Jake. From what I've seen so far he has. Jake is one to pay attention to every time he's on. It's hard to accurately describe just how amazing Jake is. And since Jake has been gone so long, it's easy to accept Goldin right away. I enjoy seeing Jake interacting with all the other characters, and I like how he's slowly being integrated into the show. Viewers never want a new face shoved at them every day. I am eager to know what Jake is hiding. He has a secret pain, and there's a lot of great potential for that. Goldin will be brilliant when Jake finally spills his guts and heart out. And there are plenty of potential stories & pairings for Jake once he's gotten through his pain & grief. Just wait until Beth Ehlers' character shows up, but that discussion is for another entry.
Goldin is a joy to watch on AMC. He has chemistry with a lot of people: romantic chemistry with Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), familial chemistry with Michael E. Knight (brother Tad) and Ray MacDonnell (dad Joe), and friendship chemistry with Aidan Turner (Aiden) and Cornelius Smith Jr (Frankie). He looks good as a doctor wearing the blue scrubs. He's funny at times like he usually was on GL. He clicks with AMC's vibe so well. I can't wait to see what he does next as Jake.
I know Goldin will continue shining on AMC, and maybe he will win an Emmy.
Mmmhmm...yes, we do!
Supporting Characters
Top 5 Supporting Characters
5. Marian Colby Chandler - AMC - She has turned into a wonderful, adoring character. I know of her days of being a bad mother (by sleeping with her daughter's boyfriend) and a tramp (having numerous affairs). And she changed for Stuart Chandler. She and Stuart's love story was so sweet, and she's now a character we love seeing. But we hardly see her! She'd be a great support to young Colby and even Adam. Krystal perhaps. There are opportunities for her to be on/used. She could also support Tad, thus, the chance to bring up their rich history. Marian is a matriarch-type now and could be queen of the show (second to Erica Kane, of course). She was always a hoot to watch.
4. Bobbie Spencer - GH - I never saw her in her heyday when she still had meaty stories and numerous love affairs. I've seen her in storylines with the previous Jerry Jacks (Julian Stone) and Roy DiLucca, and then...what happened to her? Jackie Zeman is a talented actor, and we hardly see her on screen. Every time Bobbie is on, the scenes are good. She's amazing. I love watching her with Carly, Luke, Sonny, etc. I loved watching her with Laura and Tony. It was sad seeing Bobbie say goodbye to Tony when he was dying. I'd be great to see her more with nephew Lucky, niece Lulu, and her son, Lucas. Bobbie is full of history; more can be done with her instead of just seeing her working at the hospital (although it is refreshing to see her at the hospital since she's the hospital veteran).
3. Opal Gardner - AMC - Praise to AMC for finally bringing her back on screen more this past year. Opal is a true joy to watch. She's full of wacky spirits and good humor. She's so entertaining in every scene she has. You never know what crazy outfit she'll wear next or what kooky thing she'll say next. I especially love watching her with Tad and Palmer and when she talks about Jenny, her daughter who died over 20 years ago. I also love that she has psychic abilities (or thinks she does). Her tarot card readings are especially fun to me because I believe those type of things. Opal was always at her funniest with Palmer; they've bickered and fought constantly over the years. Can't wait to see her interaction with the new Peter Cordlandt (her son with Palmer).
2. RJ Gannon - OLTL - I LOVE RJ! I can't remember the last time he had a major story! It's been so long, and it is RARE to see him on screen. RJ was always a very interesting character because he is a baddie with a heart. He's gotten a trouble with the law plenty of times, but he's there for his granddaughter Jamie, niece Rachel, and friends Nora and Lindsay. He also has a unique friendship with Dorian. He had an enjoyable relationship with his brother, Hank - the "good" brother who was once the District Attorney. RJ is also funny at times; he's been very funny with Lindsay and Dorian and also with Bo. RJ was once a character that was blamed for many crimes (much like Todd Manning is), but he wasn't always guilty. RJ could be redeemed forever, but he shouldn't. Bad deeds should always be a part of him. With OLTL being the best soap this year I'm hoping to see more of RJ.
1. Blake Marler - GL - Why is she recurring? There are plenty of potential stories for her! Blake is a hoot to watch; she's the spunkiest character on the show, besides Reva. I just love her, and she's really fun to watch with her friends (Cassie and Harley) during a girl's day-or-night out. She could be the wildest of the bunch, and she is really fun when she's drinking/drunk. Haha! I know she does have a story with Coop and Ashlee right now, but ever since Ross died, she hasn't had a major love story (or any story till now). Blake is a breath of fresh air; sometimes she's very funny. And she does have a rich history. Portrayer Liz Keifer is brilliant. Blake's a joy to me and is so entertaining. Gotta love Blake!
5. Marian Colby Chandler - AMC - She has turned into a wonderful, adoring character. I know of her days of being a bad mother (by sleeping with her daughter's boyfriend) and a tramp (having numerous affairs). And she changed for Stuart Chandler. She and Stuart's love story was so sweet, and she's now a character we love seeing. But we hardly see her! She'd be a great support to young Colby and even Adam. Krystal perhaps. There are opportunities for her to be on/used. She could also support Tad, thus, the chance to bring up their rich history. Marian is a matriarch-type now and could be queen of the show (second to Erica Kane, of course). She was always a hoot to watch.
4. Bobbie Spencer - GH - I never saw her in her heyday when she still had meaty stories and numerous love affairs. I've seen her in storylines with the previous Jerry Jacks (Julian Stone) and Roy DiLucca, and then...what happened to her? Jackie Zeman is a talented actor, and we hardly see her on screen. Every time Bobbie is on, the scenes are good. She's amazing. I love watching her with Carly, Luke, Sonny, etc. I loved watching her with Laura and Tony. It was sad seeing Bobbie say goodbye to Tony when he was dying. I'd be great to see her more with nephew Lucky, niece Lulu, and her son, Lucas. Bobbie is full of history; more can be done with her instead of just seeing her working at the hospital (although it is refreshing to see her at the hospital since she's the hospital veteran).
3. Opal Gardner - AMC - Praise to AMC for finally bringing her back on screen more this past year. Opal is a true joy to watch. She's full of wacky spirits and good humor. She's so entertaining in every scene she has. You never know what crazy outfit she'll wear next or what kooky thing she'll say next. I especially love watching her with Tad and Palmer and when she talks about Jenny, her daughter who died over 20 years ago. I also love that she has psychic abilities (or thinks she does). Her tarot card readings are especially fun to me because I believe those type of things. Opal was always at her funniest with Palmer; they've bickered and fought constantly over the years. Can't wait to see her interaction with the new Peter Cordlandt (her son with Palmer).
2. RJ Gannon - OLTL - I LOVE RJ! I can't remember the last time he had a major story! It's been so long, and it is RARE to see him on screen. RJ was always a very interesting character because he is a baddie with a heart. He's gotten a trouble with the law plenty of times, but he's there for his granddaughter Jamie, niece Rachel, and friends Nora and Lindsay. He also has a unique friendship with Dorian. He had an enjoyable relationship with his brother, Hank - the "good" brother who was once the District Attorney. RJ is also funny at times; he's been very funny with Lindsay and Dorian and also with Bo. RJ was once a character that was blamed for many crimes (much like Todd Manning is), but he wasn't always guilty. RJ could be redeemed forever, but he shouldn't. Bad deeds should always be a part of him. With OLTL being the best soap this year I'm hoping to see more of RJ.
1. Blake Marler - GL - Why is she recurring? There are plenty of potential stories for her! Blake is a hoot to watch; she's the spunkiest character on the show, besides Reva. I just love her, and she's really fun to watch with her friends (Cassie and Harley) during a girl's day-or-night out. She could be the wildest of the bunch, and she is really fun when she's drinking/drunk. Haha! I know she does have a story with Coop and Ashlee right now, but ever since Ross died, she hasn't had a major love story (or any story till now). Blake is a breath of fresh air; sometimes she's very funny. And she does have a rich history. Portrayer Liz Keifer is brilliant. Blake's a joy to me and is so entertaining. Gotta love Blake!
5.17.2008
How To Fix General Hospital
General Hospital has been in trouble for a number of years now. The show is too focused on Sonny, Jason, and mob wars. And there is WAY too much violence! How can people enjoy this show when there's enough violence in the news? If we want violence and mobsters, we'll watch Law & Order, The Godfather trilogy, and reruns of The Sopranos. We don't want that on our soap operas, and that is the main problem of GH. But there have been many times that the show had me hooked every day; it has its moments of glory. Right now, however, I'm losing interest in everything, including my favorite character's (Alexis') story. Therefore, I've compiled a list of how to fix GH:
• STOP THE CONSTANT VIOLENCE!
• Stop being centered on mob business!
• Stop having Sonny and Jason be the focus of the show! They DO NOT have to drive the show almost EVERY DAY! They need to have their turns at being backburnered just like everyone else.
• Bring the Quartermaines to the forefront by revealing that Jake is Jason’s son and the Quartermaine heir; also reveal Alan’s real will that Luke & Tracy had altered
• Resurrect Alan and Emily Quartermaine
• Bring back Ned, Lois, Brook Lynn, and Dillon
• Show veterans (Bobbie, Lesley, Mac, Felicia, Edward, etc.) more
• Have the real Jerry Jacks return, revealing that James Craig was an imposter this whole time; put James Craig in jail for this and holding people hostage a year ago
• DO NOT RECAST OR AGE MICHAEL! Just have him be in a coma for a while and then conduct a miracle wake-up.
• Get rid of Claudia, Anthony Zacchara, and Sam
• Put Maxie and Spinelli in a triangle with Jason Cook’s character and ultimately have Maxie choose Spinelli; also during that story, toughen up Spinelli
• Have Johnny be the non-mobster, anti-Zacchara that he wants to be & is on the inside, and have Lulu be even more torn between Logan and Johnny
• Have Max stand up to Sonny, be his own person, and date Diane
• Put Alexis in a triangle with Ned and Lois; also let her be a very powerful & strong DA
• Give Bobbie more to do or her own intriguing story
• Make Spinelli a Quartermaine
• Turn Robin’s pregnancy story into a social issue, educating people on HIV
• Bring back Helena to cause trouble for Nikolas, whose son Helena would want to mold into a true Cassadine prince/heir
• Have a Jax/Carly/Sonny/Kate quadrangle
• STOP THE CONSTANT VIOLENCE!
• Stop being centered on mob business!
• Stop having Sonny and Jason be the focus of the show! They DO NOT have to drive the show almost EVERY DAY! They need to have their turns at being backburnered just like everyone else.
• Bring the Quartermaines to the forefront by revealing that Jake is Jason’s son and the Quartermaine heir; also reveal Alan’s real will that Luke & Tracy had altered
• Resurrect Alan and Emily Quartermaine
• Bring back Ned, Lois, Brook Lynn, and Dillon
• Show veterans (Bobbie, Lesley, Mac, Felicia, Edward, etc.) more
• Have the real Jerry Jacks return, revealing that James Craig was an imposter this whole time; put James Craig in jail for this and holding people hostage a year ago
• DO NOT RECAST OR AGE MICHAEL! Just have him be in a coma for a while and then conduct a miracle wake-up.
• Get rid of Claudia, Anthony Zacchara, and Sam
• Put Maxie and Spinelli in a triangle with Jason Cook’s character and ultimately have Maxie choose Spinelli; also during that story, toughen up Spinelli
• Have Johnny be the non-mobster, anti-Zacchara that he wants to be & is on the inside, and have Lulu be even more torn between Logan and Johnny
• Have Max stand up to Sonny, be his own person, and date Diane
• Put Alexis in a triangle with Ned and Lois; also let her be a very powerful & strong DA
• Give Bobbie more to do or her own intriguing story
• Make Spinelli a Quartermaine
• Turn Robin’s pregnancy story into a social issue, educating people on HIV
• Bring back Helena to cause trouble for Nikolas, whose son Helena would want to mold into a true Cassadine prince/heir
• Have a Jax/Carly/Sonny/Kate quadrangle
5.08.2008
Picks List
Here's my Emmy list -----
Younger Actor: ATWT's Van Hansis
Younger Actress: ATWT's Jennifer Landon
Supporting Actor: OLTL's Brian Kerwin, but it'd be great to see GL's Daniel Cosgrove or ATWT's Trent Dawson win.
Supporting Actress: ATWT's Kelley Menighan Hensley
Lead Actor: Unsure at this time.
Lead Actress: Unsure at this time.
Drama Series: Definitely One Life To Live!
Directing & Writing: One Life To Live
Younger Actor: ATWT's Van Hansis
Younger Actress: ATWT's Jennifer Landon
Supporting Actor: OLTL's Brian Kerwin, but it'd be great to see GL's Daniel Cosgrove or ATWT's Trent Dawson win.
Supporting Actress: ATWT's Kelley Menighan Hensley
Lead Actor: Unsure at this time.
Lead Actress: Unsure at this time.
Drama Series: Definitely One Life To Live!
Directing & Writing: One Life To Live
Emmy Discussion 08
This year the Emmys are in June again (the 20th to be exact). The nominations were announced April 30th on The View (ABC).
Initial reaction: I'm surprised and disappointed by these nominations. The list isn't very exciting this year. Overall, I'm pretty bummed. One Life To Live got only one acting nom. Guiding Light is nominated for Best Show, and I'm wondering, "For what?" It went downhill in 2007. The Young and the Restless got the most noms, too many acting noms. People that should be nominated are not. And I'm just not that impressed with some of these nominated actors for one reason or another. However, I'm very pleased that One Life To Live is nominated for Best Show. I'm happy to see Kelley Menighan Hensley nominated. I'm pleasantly surprised to see Day of Our Lives with four acting noms. How wonderful for DAYS since it's tinkering on cancellation from being the only soap left on NBC.
Now let me dive into each category to discuss the nominations and share my picks. I'll say this first, though: Most categories I don't care too much who wins. I think that says it all.
Younger Actor: Bryton McClure (Devon, Y&R), Tom Pelphrey (Jonathon, GL), Van Hansis (Luke, ATWT), and Jesse Lee Soffer (Will, ATWT) are all nominated again. New to the category is Darin Brooks (Max, DAYS). Same old, same old except for Brooks. I'm not stunned by this category. It's good to see Brooks nominated even though I'm not familiar with his work. I've rooted for Pelphrey in the past, and I loved seeing him win. But he doesn't need to win this year. I'm all for Van Hansis because he's adorable and he's great as Luke, a gay character fans can't help but root for in the game of love. Here's to Hansis!
Younger Actress: Jennifer Landon (Gwen, ATWT) is the only returning nominee. The others...I don't know well enough to judge. There's Rachel Melvin (Chelsea, DAYS), Vail Bloom (Heather, Y&R), Emily O'Brien (Jana, Y&R), and Tammin Sursok (Colleen, Y&R). First, why are the THREE Y&R nominees? That's not fair! And I heard those three should not be nominated because there are better younger actresses that could have been nominated. Kristen Alderson (Starr, OLTL), Kirsten Storms (Maxie, GH), and Alexandra Chando (ex-Maddie, ATWT) are a few that are better. So NOT rooting for those Y&R gals! I like that Melvin is nominated, but I'm forced to root for Landon. I know her work and her character. She's a gem.
Supporting Actor: This category had two surprises. Daniel Cosgrove (Bill, GL) and Brian Kerwin (Charlie, OLTL) are newcomers to the Emmys, and I adore both of them. It's great to see them on this list. I didn't recognize Kerwin's name, but once I knew he's the one portraying Charlie, I was excited for him. And he's OLTL's only acting nom, which is a shame. The three other actors have been here before: Trent Dawson (Henry, ATWT), Greg Rikaart (Kevin, Y&R), and Kristoff St. John (Neil, Y&R). Not pleased about the two Y&R guys. Obviously, The Young and the Restless isn't a soap I favor or watch much. Dawson deserves an Emmy; he's being nominated year after year now. Give him an Emmy already! I do like him and Henry, but I have to root for Kerwin. It's incredible that he's nominated because he joined OLTL only a couple of months ago. He's still fairly new, and he's a joy to watch.
Supporting Actress: This category has the biggest disappointment. Where's Catherine Hickland (Lindsay, OLTL) and Kathy Brier (Marcie, OLTL)?! They had AMAZING work this past year, and they're NOT nominated! GRR! And Gina Tognoni (Dinah, GL) is nominated again! I like her so much, but was her work really better than Hickland's or Brier's? Maybe so, I guess. Anyway...Heather Tom (Katie, B&B) is brilliant because she has now been nominated for all three roles she has played in the soap world. Tracey Bregman (Lauren) is the person from Y&R in this category. Days of Our Lives has a nom here too (which is cool): Judi Evans (Bonnie and Adrienne). The surprise (for me) and the person I'm rooting for is Kelley Menighan Hensley (Emily, ATWT). I've been her and Emily's fan for a couple of years now. Gotta go for Hensley!
Lead Actor: We've got old pros in this category and someone new. Thaao Penghlis (Tony, DAYS) is that someone. I'm tempted to root for him because I know he is good and he's from DAYS, the show that hasn't had Emmy nominations since I-don't-know-when. He's the new pro I suppose. And the others: David Canary (Adam & Stuart, AMC), Anthony Geary (Luke, GH), Peter Bergman (Jack, Y&R), and Christian Le Blanc (Michael, Y&R). All four of those actors are pretty great. I've seen Geary and Le Blanc win in recent years. I can't recall if Bergman has ever won, so I wouldn't mind if he received the Emmy. Canary has won many times, and I feel the urge to root for him because I know his work very well. AMC is a soap I've been watching for over ten years, so I know how talented he is. I love watching him as Adam & Stuart. Hurray for Canary! However, I was hoping that Ricky Paull Goldin (ex-Gus, GL) would be nominated because I LOVE him. Alas, that did not happen, and I'm a little unsure of who to root for.
Lead Actress: I'm so disappointed it's not even funny at all. Four actresses were nominated just last year; the fifth is totally new and terrible. Maura West (Carly, ATWT), Chrystal Chappell (Olivia, GL), Michelle Stafford (Phyllis, Y&R), and Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Y&R) are all wonderfully talented actresses. They portray beloved characters. I'm glad that West won last year. I just can't believe that they're all back on the list this year. Wow! The fifth actress replaces Kim Zimmer (Reva, GL), and that is Nicole Forester (Cassie, GL) Say what?! Her character is beloved, but Forester...not so much. Personally, I don't care for her at all and have never liked her as Cassie. So, I don't like that she's nominated. I'm stunned that she is. I hope she doesn't win. I'm sure she'd be better in another role on another soap. That's just how I feel. Having said that, I don't know who to root for. Maybe West should win again or Cooper should FINALLY win.
Drama Series: General Hospital, Guiding Light, One Life To Live, and The Young and the Restless. I'm stunned by this category too. Of course Y&R is nominated. Yikes! General Hospital is usually nominated even though it's full of violence and mob stuff. There must have been something good from last year. At first, I hated that GL is on this list because 2007 was their downfall. 2007 was a BAD year, but not all of it... I had forgotten about Tammy's death and the special 70th anniversary episode. I hope that stuff was submitted. I have mixed feelings about One Life To Live because 2007 was an improvement year. Some of it was really bad, and then it became wonderful. So, I don't know what episodes will be submitted, but I am definitely rooting for it. I am loving OLTL SO MUCH!
I'll just list nominations for these two other categories...
Directing:
All My Children
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
One Life To Live
Writing:
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
Guiding Light
One Life To Live
The Young and the Restless
Initial reaction: I'm surprised and disappointed by these nominations. The list isn't very exciting this year. Overall, I'm pretty bummed. One Life To Live got only one acting nom. Guiding Light is nominated for Best Show, and I'm wondering, "For what?" It went downhill in 2007. The Young and the Restless got the most noms, too many acting noms. People that should be nominated are not. And I'm just not that impressed with some of these nominated actors for one reason or another. However, I'm very pleased that One Life To Live is nominated for Best Show. I'm happy to see Kelley Menighan Hensley nominated. I'm pleasantly surprised to see Day of Our Lives with four acting noms. How wonderful for DAYS since it's tinkering on cancellation from being the only soap left on NBC.
Now let me dive into each category to discuss the nominations and share my picks. I'll say this first, though: Most categories I don't care too much who wins. I think that says it all.
Younger Actor: Bryton McClure (Devon, Y&R), Tom Pelphrey (Jonathon, GL), Van Hansis (Luke, ATWT), and Jesse Lee Soffer (Will, ATWT) are all nominated again. New to the category is Darin Brooks (Max, DAYS). Same old, same old except for Brooks. I'm not stunned by this category. It's good to see Brooks nominated even though I'm not familiar with his work. I've rooted for Pelphrey in the past, and I loved seeing him win. But he doesn't need to win this year. I'm all for Van Hansis because he's adorable and he's great as Luke, a gay character fans can't help but root for in the game of love. Here's to Hansis!
Younger Actress: Jennifer Landon (Gwen, ATWT) is the only returning nominee. The others...I don't know well enough to judge. There's Rachel Melvin (Chelsea, DAYS), Vail Bloom (Heather, Y&R), Emily O'Brien (Jana, Y&R), and Tammin Sursok (Colleen, Y&R). First, why are the THREE Y&R nominees? That's not fair! And I heard those three should not be nominated because there are better younger actresses that could have been nominated. Kristen Alderson (Starr, OLTL), Kirsten Storms (Maxie, GH), and Alexandra Chando (ex-Maddie, ATWT) are a few that are better. So NOT rooting for those Y&R gals! I like that Melvin is nominated, but I'm forced to root for Landon. I know her work and her character. She's a gem.
Supporting Actor: This category had two surprises. Daniel Cosgrove (Bill, GL) and Brian Kerwin (Charlie, OLTL) are newcomers to the Emmys, and I adore both of them. It's great to see them on this list. I didn't recognize Kerwin's name, but once I knew he's the one portraying Charlie, I was excited for him. And he's OLTL's only acting nom, which is a shame. The three other actors have been here before: Trent Dawson (Henry, ATWT), Greg Rikaart (Kevin, Y&R), and Kristoff St. John (Neil, Y&R). Not pleased about the two Y&R guys. Obviously, The Young and the Restless isn't a soap I favor or watch much. Dawson deserves an Emmy; he's being nominated year after year now. Give him an Emmy already! I do like him and Henry, but I have to root for Kerwin. It's incredible that he's nominated because he joined OLTL only a couple of months ago. He's still fairly new, and he's a joy to watch.
Supporting Actress: This category has the biggest disappointment. Where's Catherine Hickland (Lindsay, OLTL) and Kathy Brier (Marcie, OLTL)?! They had AMAZING work this past year, and they're NOT nominated! GRR! And Gina Tognoni (Dinah, GL) is nominated again! I like her so much, but was her work really better than Hickland's or Brier's? Maybe so, I guess. Anyway...Heather Tom (Katie, B&B) is brilliant because she has now been nominated for all three roles she has played in the soap world. Tracey Bregman (Lauren) is the person from Y&R in this category. Days of Our Lives has a nom here too (which is cool): Judi Evans (Bonnie and Adrienne). The surprise (for me) and the person I'm rooting for is Kelley Menighan Hensley (Emily, ATWT). I've been her and Emily's fan for a couple of years now. Gotta go for Hensley!
Lead Actor: We've got old pros in this category and someone new. Thaao Penghlis (Tony, DAYS) is that someone. I'm tempted to root for him because I know he is good and he's from DAYS, the show that hasn't had Emmy nominations since I-don't-know-when. He's the new pro I suppose. And the others: David Canary (Adam & Stuart, AMC), Anthony Geary (Luke, GH), Peter Bergman (Jack, Y&R), and Christian Le Blanc (Michael, Y&R). All four of those actors are pretty great. I've seen Geary and Le Blanc win in recent years. I can't recall if Bergman has ever won, so I wouldn't mind if he received the Emmy. Canary has won many times, and I feel the urge to root for him because I know his work very well. AMC is a soap I've been watching for over ten years, so I know how talented he is. I love watching him as Adam & Stuart. Hurray for Canary! However, I was hoping that Ricky Paull Goldin (ex-Gus, GL) would be nominated because I LOVE him. Alas, that did not happen, and I'm a little unsure of who to root for.
Lead Actress: I'm so disappointed it's not even funny at all. Four actresses were nominated just last year; the fifth is totally new and terrible. Maura West (Carly, ATWT), Chrystal Chappell (Olivia, GL), Michelle Stafford (Phyllis, Y&R), and Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Y&R) are all wonderfully talented actresses. They portray beloved characters. I'm glad that West won last year. I just can't believe that they're all back on the list this year. Wow! The fifth actress replaces Kim Zimmer (Reva, GL), and that is Nicole Forester (Cassie, GL) Say what?! Her character is beloved, but Forester...not so much. Personally, I don't care for her at all and have never liked her as Cassie. So, I don't like that she's nominated. I'm stunned that she is. I hope she doesn't win. I'm sure she'd be better in another role on another soap. That's just how I feel. Having said that, I don't know who to root for. Maybe West should win again or Cooper should FINALLY win.
Drama Series: General Hospital, Guiding Light, One Life To Live, and The Young and the Restless. I'm stunned by this category too. Of course Y&R is nominated. Yikes! General Hospital is usually nominated even though it's full of violence and mob stuff. There must have been something good from last year. At first, I hated that GL is on this list because 2007 was their downfall. 2007 was a BAD year, but not all of it... I had forgotten about Tammy's death and the special 70th anniversary episode. I hope that stuff was submitted. I have mixed feelings about One Life To Live because 2007 was an improvement year. Some of it was really bad, and then it became wonderful. So, I don't know what episodes will be submitted, but I am definitely rooting for it. I am loving OLTL SO MUCH!
I'll just list nominations for these two other categories...
Directing:
All My Children
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
One Life To Live
Writing:
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
Guiding Light
One Life To Live
The Young and the Restless
4.10.2008
How To Fix Guiding Light
Many fans are not pleased with Guiding Light or its new look. The new production model is a major evolutionary change, and the other soaps may follow suit someday. It was a bold move by GL, and it has been nice to see how the new sets look and the bright outdoor scenes. However, the storylines have not changed much. They're hardly entertainment. This show is almost 100% in the pits right now; it was better a year ago (only slightly I think). Thus, I've compiled this list of ways to fix GL:
• Make it more exciting and interesting! It’s dull every day, and that’s probably because of the new production model. If you keep the model, improve lighting; sound; and camera shots/angles. It's also because of the writing. Write better storylines and better dialogue!
• Get rid of Ava, Jeffrey, Cassie, Natalia, Rafe, Dylan, and Remy
• Break up Cassie and Josh
• Break up Jeffrey and Reva
• Reunite Josh and Reva
• Reunite Mallet and Dinah
• Beef up Coop & Ashlee’s story
• Have Doris return to the DA position
• Bring Mel to the forefront and have her be everyone’s attorney instead of Jeffrey
• Bill & Lizzie need a romantic star-crossed love story in which they gradually fall in love
• Have Natalia leave town with Rafe because there’s nothing left for them in Springfield
• Have Alex, Rick, and Blake mix things up more either in their own stories or other characters’ stories
• Have Alan not be so obsessed with Spaulding children/heirs and let him regain power & respect
• Break up Beth and Rick, and let her be a strong heroine again
• Frank needs the love of a good woman
• Have Cyrus & Marina’s relationship get back to how it was before Harley messed them up
• Perhaps create a Dinah/Mallet/Marina/Cyrus quadrangle
• If Beth Ehlers leaves GL, either have Harley leave town with her boys or have her die and meet Gus in heaven
• If Harley stays around: put her back on the police force, fight loads of crime, and have her be a tough, independent woman/mother for a while
• Bring back Sam permanently and put him with Daisy
• Have Olivia live life to the fullest with Gus’s heart
• Make it more exciting and interesting! It’s dull every day, and that’s probably because of the new production model. If you keep the model, improve lighting; sound; and camera shots/angles. It's also because of the writing. Write better storylines and better dialogue!
• Get rid of Ava, Jeffrey, Cassie, Natalia, Rafe, Dylan, and Remy
• Break up Cassie and Josh
• Break up Jeffrey and Reva
• Reunite Josh and Reva
• Reunite Mallet and Dinah
• Beef up Coop & Ashlee’s story
• Have Doris return to the DA position
• Bring Mel to the forefront and have her be everyone’s attorney instead of Jeffrey
• Bill & Lizzie need a romantic star-crossed love story in which they gradually fall in love
• Have Natalia leave town with Rafe because there’s nothing left for them in Springfield
• Have Alex, Rick, and Blake mix things up more either in their own stories or other characters’ stories
• Have Alan not be so obsessed with Spaulding children/heirs and let him regain power & respect
• Break up Beth and Rick, and let her be a strong heroine again
• Frank needs the love of a good woman
• Have Cyrus & Marina’s relationship get back to how it was before Harley messed them up
• Perhaps create a Dinah/Mallet/Marina/Cyrus quadrangle
• If Beth Ehlers leaves GL, either have Harley leave town with her boys or have her die and meet Gus in heaven
• If Harley stays around: put her back on the police force, fight loads of crime, and have her be a tough, independent woman/mother for a while
• Bring back Sam permanently and put him with Daisy
• Have Olivia live life to the fullest with Gus’s heart
4.09.2008
How To Fix All My Children
Most fans cannot be completely happy with or entertained by AMC right now. Over a year ago it was in the pits - absolutely terrible. It has improved some, especially with the returns of Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), Darnell Williams (Jesse), and Debbie Morgan (Angie). But overall, it's still pretty terrible. I find most of it boring every day. Pine Valley needs to get interesting again! Thus, I've come up with this list of ways to fix AMC:
• Get rid of Babe, Ava, Aidan, and Ryan
• No more Fusion!
• Bring back Enchantment and have Erica & Kendall be in charge of that, leaving Greenlee high & dry once Fusion is brought
down
• Let Richie be completely healed already and put him in a triangle with Amanda & JR
• Bring Dixie back and undo her pancake death
• Boost up the younger characters – Colby, Frankie, Andre (Samuel Woods’ son), and later Cassandra
• Bring the ‘Kathy is Kate’ secret to the forefront and have Tad & Dixie finally find their daughter, reassuring Julia that she can
still be her “aunt”
• Give veterans Opal, Marian, Stuart, Palmer, Ruth, and Joe more to do
• Bring on a new Petey to restore the Cortlandts and mix him up in the youth scene
• Continue developing Robert Gardner as a dastardly yet charming villain
• Don’t mess with Angie & Jesse – their story is perfectly fine the way it's going
• Get Krystal back in Adam’s orbit or bring on a new man that’s more her style because she and Tad are boring
• Once Jake arrives, test the chemistry waters with Annie and Greenlee
• If Hayley returns in the form of Beth Ehlers, put her with Jake and see if the actors’ dynamic is still there
• Bring back Skye to shake things up
• Give Julia a meatier story after the Kathy/Kate storyline is wrapped up
• Give Josh a storyline or get more involved with Erica's and Kendall's storylines
• Get rid of Babe, Ava, Aidan, and Ryan
• No more Fusion!
• Bring back Enchantment and have Erica & Kendall be in charge of that, leaving Greenlee high & dry once Fusion is brought
down
• Let Richie be completely healed already and put him in a triangle with Amanda & JR
• Bring Dixie back and undo her pancake death
• Boost up the younger characters – Colby, Frankie, Andre (Samuel Woods’ son), and later Cassandra
• Bring the ‘Kathy is Kate’ secret to the forefront and have Tad & Dixie finally find their daughter, reassuring Julia that she can
still be her “aunt”
• Give veterans Opal, Marian, Stuart, Palmer, Ruth, and Joe more to do
• Bring on a new Petey to restore the Cortlandts and mix him up in the youth scene
• Continue developing Robert Gardner as a dastardly yet charming villain
• Don’t mess with Angie & Jesse – their story is perfectly fine the way it's going
• Get Krystal back in Adam’s orbit or bring on a new man that’s more her style because she and Tad are boring
• Once Jake arrives, test the chemistry waters with Annie and Greenlee
• If Hayley returns in the form of Beth Ehlers, put her with Jake and see if the actors’ dynamic is still there
• Bring back Skye to shake things up
• Give Julia a meatier story after the Kathy/Kate storyline is wrapped up
• Give Josh a storyline or get more involved with Erica's and Kendall's storylines
4.08.2008
Favorite Weddings
Top 5 Soap Weddings
5. Noah & Julia (AMC): Theirs was a true fairytale wedding thrown by their family and friends. They were married at Wildwind, maybe in the ballroom. The minister was late, so friends and family stepped in to share kind words and "marry" the happy couple. Hayley, Maria, Brooke, and others married them in the name of different things (magic, courage, freedom, etc). Noah & Julia declared their vows, and the minister eventually got there to make everything official. A lovely reception followed... The most memorable part was Noah & Julia's first dance. They went from ballroom to outdoor courtyard/terrace waltzing to the instrumental music of the movie Cinderalla. They really were a fairytale everyone could believe in.
4. Todd & Tea (OLTL): They were married quickly for convenience and had divorced, but along the way they fell in love. Their real wedding was what fans were waiting for. Everyone was there despite most people's dislike for Todd. The event began with Todd enacting in his (un)usual manner: causing a blackout and rising out of a coffin (if my memory serves me right). No one was surprised. The ceremony was beautiful; I think they were true to themselves with their vows. What I remember most is their wedding night at a nearby cabana room. It was to be their first time, and they were so nervous. They had the perfect romantic atmosphere, and they exchanged wedding gifts. They shared a dance, and a sexy love scene was about to begin. Their wedding was shattered by a secret Todd was keeping, and I mark that as the end of them, unfortunately.
3. Tad & Dixie's 3rd (AMC): The date was May 20, 1999, and Tad & Dixie were my favorite couple on daytime. This wedding was a cover on Soap Opera Digest, and it was an emotional one for me. Tad & Dixie were married for a third time at the Pine Valley Inn's Garden Room, which was so beautifully decorated. Junior (JR) walked his mom down the aisle; he and Jamie were so ecstatic that they'd be step-brothers again. I had hoped to get teary-eyed during the vows and ring-exchange, but I was busy laughing. Their vows were funny and touching and reflected their rich history. Their kiss was one of their longest, and they had their arms around each other. The reception was lovely; the best parts were their dance and the cake feeding. They left to their New York City honeymoon in style - by helicopter. Their wedding night was SO romantic and sexy. Tad & Dixie's third wedding is one to always remember.
2. Gus & Harley (GL): I've thought for a couple years now that Gus & Harley are the best couple in daytime, so their wedding is at Number Two. As a fan, I was waiting for what seemed like forever for them to finally marry. They had obstacles, but they made it. And their wedding is the most beautiful, simplest ceremony I've ever seen. Also very romantic. They married outside of Company Restaurant in the courtyard. There were pure love in their eyes and bright smiles on their faces as they said their vows and exchanged rings. Their kiss was the best part because he dipped her and it was long and lingering. Their reception was sweet; they had some short moments away from the crowd. They danced to "There You Are" by Martina McBride. And they left to go to Greece for their honeymoon (WHICH WE DIDN'T SEE AT ALL). The only bad thing was that we fans didn't get a wedding night. Otherwise, it was a perfect wedding for a perfectly magical couple.
1. Bo & Nora (OLTL): This one was before I was watching soaps. However, it re-aired on a Thanksgiving, and I taped it. I've watched it numerous times. This wedding is Number One because it was so much fun and enjoyable for any One Life To Live fan. What makes it so special is none other than Little Richard, a favorite artist of Bo & Nora. This wedding was not planned by the happy couple because they were too busy, LOL! They were backing out of it when a curtain opened to reveal Little Richard. And it became the perfect wedding. Bo & Nora danced down the aisle, and Little Richard married them with the help of Reverend Carpenter and a rabbi (since Nora is Jewish). Then they danced back up the aisle to "Good Golly Miss Molly", and everyone else joined in. The best part was Bo & Nora dancing alone at the front entrance of the church. And their reception was loads of fun too because it was a fifties sock-hop. It was one big party for everyone there and everyone watching at home.
5. Noah & Julia (AMC): Theirs was a true fairytale wedding thrown by their family and friends. They were married at Wildwind, maybe in the ballroom. The minister was late, so friends and family stepped in to share kind words and "marry" the happy couple. Hayley, Maria, Brooke, and others married them in the name of different things (magic, courage, freedom, etc). Noah & Julia declared their vows, and the minister eventually got there to make everything official. A lovely reception followed... The most memorable part was Noah & Julia's first dance. They went from ballroom to outdoor courtyard/terrace waltzing to the instrumental music of the movie Cinderalla. They really were a fairytale everyone could believe in.
4. Todd & Tea (OLTL): They were married quickly for convenience and had divorced, but along the way they fell in love. Their real wedding was what fans were waiting for. Everyone was there despite most people's dislike for Todd. The event began with Todd enacting in his (un)usual manner: causing a blackout and rising out of a coffin (if my memory serves me right). No one was surprised. The ceremony was beautiful; I think they were true to themselves with their vows. What I remember most is their wedding night at a nearby cabana room. It was to be their first time, and they were so nervous. They had the perfect romantic atmosphere, and they exchanged wedding gifts. They shared a dance, and a sexy love scene was about to begin. Their wedding was shattered by a secret Todd was keeping, and I mark that as the end of them, unfortunately.
3. Tad & Dixie's 3rd (AMC): The date was May 20, 1999, and Tad & Dixie were my favorite couple on daytime. This wedding was a cover on Soap Opera Digest, and it was an emotional one for me. Tad & Dixie were married for a third time at the Pine Valley Inn's Garden Room, which was so beautifully decorated. Junior (JR) walked his mom down the aisle; he and Jamie were so ecstatic that they'd be step-brothers again. I had hoped to get teary-eyed during the vows and ring-exchange, but I was busy laughing. Their vows were funny and touching and reflected their rich history. Their kiss was one of their longest, and they had their arms around each other. The reception was lovely; the best parts were their dance and the cake feeding. They left to their New York City honeymoon in style - by helicopter. Their wedding night was SO romantic and sexy. Tad & Dixie's third wedding is one to always remember.
2. Gus & Harley (GL): I've thought for a couple years now that Gus & Harley are the best couple in daytime, so their wedding is at Number Two. As a fan, I was waiting for what seemed like forever for them to finally marry. They had obstacles, but they made it. And their wedding is the most beautiful, simplest ceremony I've ever seen. Also very romantic. They married outside of Company Restaurant in the courtyard. There were pure love in their eyes and bright smiles on their faces as they said their vows and exchanged rings. Their kiss was the best part because he dipped her and it was long and lingering. Their reception was sweet; they had some short moments away from the crowd. They danced to "There You Are" by Martina McBride. And they left to go to Greece for their honeymoon (WHICH WE DIDN'T SEE AT ALL). The only bad thing was that we fans didn't get a wedding night. Otherwise, it was a perfect wedding for a perfectly magical couple.
1. Bo & Nora (OLTL): This one was before I was watching soaps. However, it re-aired on a Thanksgiving, and I taped it. I've watched it numerous times. This wedding is Number One because it was so much fun and enjoyable for any One Life To Live fan. What makes it so special is none other than Little Richard, a favorite artist of Bo & Nora. This wedding was not planned by the happy couple because they were too busy, LOL! They were backing out of it when a curtain opened to reveal Little Richard. And it became the perfect wedding. Bo & Nora danced down the aisle, and Little Richard married them with the help of Reverend Carpenter and a rabbi (since Nora is Jewish). Then they danced back up the aisle to "Good Golly Miss Molly", and everyone else joined in. The best part was Bo & Nora dancing alone at the front entrance of the church. And their reception was loads of fun too because it was a fifties sock-hop. It was one big party for everyone there and everyone watching at home.
4.07.2008
Sexiest Couples
Top 5 Sexiest Couples
5. Tad & Dixie (AMC): As much as I've loved Tad & Dixie, they have to be Number Five because they were more romantic together than anything else. They were friends and lovers. They were funny and had the typical star-crossed romance. Now, when I talk Tad & Dixie I mainly speak of this time frame: 1998 to 2002. That's when I was watching every day. Tad & Dixie were a very sexy pair, and they definitely had their share of bed scenes and foreplay. They hinted at an active sex life, and they shared so many passionate kisses. I remember when Dixie had Tad "kidnapped" for his own good, and they were on a private plane where they had much sexy fun. But mostly they had a life of romance, true love, and raising their two sons while hoping to expand their family.
4. Ric & Alexis (GH): They were wonderfully adorable together. They oozed with sexiness in the beginning, before their court room rivalry turned into a deep love. They bickered constantly and battled furiously during trials and other legal dilemmas. All of it was funny and sexy at the same time. The way they fought showed the sparks between them. Ric saw the sparks first while Alexis was in complete denial about there being an attraction whatsoever. They shared some stolen, hot kisses. One time they found themselves making out on his desk, and Sonny caught them, turning it into a hilariously embarrassing moment. Ric and Alexis's attraction was very strong, and they became very endearing when Ric was by her side during Kristina's serious illness.
3. Cyrus & Harley (GL): This is the only current couple on my list because there aren't many current couples that I like and are sexy. Hardly any. The way Cyrus & Harley have ended up together is bad, of course, since he was her niece's boyfriend. But no one can deny their steamy sexiness. Right now they've definitely cooled off, and Gus's death is having a huge impact on their life. But when they finally decided to be together, my screen was on fire. Oh my God, their first love scene was full of passion! And they continued to be hot n' heavy as secret lovers and when they revealed their relationship. They were all over each other in Harley's bed, a hotel room, Harley's car, Harley's kitchen counter, etc. WOW! They were SO addicted to each other. Their lust was strong, and that's why they have to be on this list.
2. Craig & Rosanna (ATWT): They were sexy their first time around when Hunt Block portrayed Craig and Cady McClain debuted as Rosanna. I saw the sparks their first episode together, and I was thrilled when their romantic relationship began. They had such a big attraction to each other. They were sexy from the beginning. They were companions who schemed together while flirting. And then they were making out almost every time they were completely alone. They definitely oozed sex appeal; they had such a spark in them that burned up my TV screen. They only got sexier once they slept together. I never knew they'd eventually fall in love, but they still had their sexiness. They had a really hot love scene after they renewed their vows. It's a shame what they once had is gone since their relationship changed when Craig turned to his dastardly ways.
1. Gus & Harley (GL): Of course they are Number 1 since I still love them so much. They were more than sexy; they were everything. While they were very romantic (like Tad & Dixie), one could tell they had great sex. They were extremely sexy from the beginning when all they did was bicker. Once Gus recognized their underlying attraction and began pursuing Harley, they got hot. The sparks were quite strong between them, and it stayed that way through their whole life together. They never lost their attraction; they were always passionate for each other. They've had six incredible love scenes and numerous steamy kisses. They've hinted at having an active, fun sex life. They've had so many sexy, arousing moments; some were major, lovable scenes while others were just a few, lovable lines. Every moment was something for fans to gush over. Gus & Harley never failed to make me melt.
5. Tad & Dixie (AMC): As much as I've loved Tad & Dixie, they have to be Number Five because they were more romantic together than anything else. They were friends and lovers. They were funny and had the typical star-crossed romance. Now, when I talk Tad & Dixie I mainly speak of this time frame: 1998 to 2002. That's when I was watching every day. Tad & Dixie were a very sexy pair, and they definitely had their share of bed scenes and foreplay. They hinted at an active sex life, and they shared so many passionate kisses. I remember when Dixie had Tad "kidnapped" for his own good, and they were on a private plane where they had much sexy fun. But mostly they had a life of romance, true love, and raising their two sons while hoping to expand their family.
4. Ric & Alexis (GH): They were wonderfully adorable together. They oozed with sexiness in the beginning, before their court room rivalry turned into a deep love. They bickered constantly and battled furiously during trials and other legal dilemmas. All of it was funny and sexy at the same time. The way they fought showed the sparks between them. Ric saw the sparks first while Alexis was in complete denial about there being an attraction whatsoever. They shared some stolen, hot kisses. One time they found themselves making out on his desk, and Sonny caught them, turning it into a hilariously embarrassing moment. Ric and Alexis's attraction was very strong, and they became very endearing when Ric was by her side during Kristina's serious illness.
3. Cyrus & Harley (GL): This is the only current couple on my list because there aren't many current couples that I like and are sexy. Hardly any. The way Cyrus & Harley have ended up together is bad, of course, since he was her niece's boyfriend. But no one can deny their steamy sexiness. Right now they've definitely cooled off, and Gus's death is having a huge impact on their life. But when they finally decided to be together, my screen was on fire. Oh my God, their first love scene was full of passion! And they continued to be hot n' heavy as secret lovers and when they revealed their relationship. They were all over each other in Harley's bed, a hotel room, Harley's car, Harley's kitchen counter, etc. WOW! They were SO addicted to each other. Their lust was strong, and that's why they have to be on this list.
2. Craig & Rosanna (ATWT): They were sexy their first time around when Hunt Block portrayed Craig and Cady McClain debuted as Rosanna. I saw the sparks their first episode together, and I was thrilled when their romantic relationship began. They had such a big attraction to each other. They were sexy from the beginning. They were companions who schemed together while flirting. And then they were making out almost every time they were completely alone. They definitely oozed sex appeal; they had such a spark in them that burned up my TV screen. They only got sexier once they slept together. I never knew they'd eventually fall in love, but they still had their sexiness. They had a really hot love scene after they renewed their vows. It's a shame what they once had is gone since their relationship changed when Craig turned to his dastardly ways.
1. Gus & Harley (GL): Of course they are Number 1 since I still love them so much. They were more than sexy; they were everything. While they were very romantic (like Tad & Dixie), one could tell they had great sex. They were extremely sexy from the beginning when all they did was bicker. Once Gus recognized their underlying attraction and began pursuing Harley, they got hot. The sparks were quite strong between them, and it stayed that way through their whole life together. They never lost their attraction; they were always passionate for each other. They've had six incredible love scenes and numerous steamy kisses. They've hinted at having an active, fun sex life. They've had so many sexy, arousing moments; some were major, lovable scenes while others were just a few, lovable lines. Every moment was something for fans to gush over. Gus & Harley never failed to make me melt.
4.02.2008
GL ~ Tribute To Gus Aitoro
Note: I began writing this entry on 3/31/08 at 10 a.m.
As most online people know, Ricky Paull Goldin had decided to leave Guiding Light and Gus will perish from injuries of a motorcycle accident. His heart will go to Olivia, who is dying and needs a new heart. Harley will have a tearful goodbye with Gus, and every Gus/Harley fan will be emotional wrecks this entire week. It's a sad time, especially for GusHers, but we will always remember the character of Gus Aitoro and Ricky's excellent portrayal of him. He'll forever be near and dear to our hearts. His relationship with Harley will be treasured and never forgotten.
Gus (and Ricky) will be missed so much, but as we grieve, we'll also look back on his amazing seven-year history. I present to you now Gus Aitoro year by year.....
In April 2001 we were introduced to Gus as an FBI agent. He came to town to investigate the Santos family with the SPD. His and Harley's first words to each other were along the lines of, "Who the hell are you?" He became Harley's boss, and they shared an office. But it was not love at first sight. They hated each other, and they bickered constantly. Gus was an arrogant jerk set on destroying the Santos's, and he belittled Harley many times. It was difficult to like him, especially since he was brought on to be Harley's new love interest. But as the year went on, we saw glimmers of humanity. There was much more to him that meets the eye. He slowly showed Harley that he does have a heart, feelings, and compassion. It was also eventually revealed that his dad, Joe, was killed by a member of the Santos clan and his real name is Nick August. He opened up to Harley about his dad, and he even delivered her second son, Jude. Harley began having feelings for him even though she repeatedly denied it. Gus began pursuing her; he knew there was an intense attraction between them. They shared a few kisses, but Harley was still in denial. Only she knew his soft side, though, while the rest of Springfield hated him completely. As the year ended, Gus contemplated leaving town but stayed because of Harley.
In 2002 we witnessed the glorious first year of GusH being a couple. They slowly built a wonderful, magical relationship despite her family being against them. Gus was no longer with the FBI; he became a SPD detective, working side by side Harley. He struggled admitting his true feelings for her on Valentine's Day, their first date, and other moments. He stumbled with words, he didn't like talking about his past, and he didn't want to rush their relationship. He respected the fact that she wasn't fully ready to be in another committed relationship. Gus had a major breakthrough when he finally let go of his vendetta against the Santos's. He didn't need it anymore since he now had Harley. With that, he showed what a good, funny, romantic, and adorable man he is. And only Harley understood him and saw him for who he truly was for the longest time. Her family thought he was a bad guy and so did her children's fathers. But Gus and Harley fell in love and moved in together. And Gus showed that he's good with children; he could care for Harley's kids just fine. Gus and Harley's love proved to be very strong against obstacles: Marina setting up Gus to look like a pedophile; Phillip gaining full custody of his & Harley's son, Zach; Gus's sister, Eden, coming to town. Gus was torn between Eden and Harley for many months because they didn't get along. Gus & Harley even took a short break so she could get Zach back, but they couldn't stay away from each other. They were in love, and nothing could come between them. The year ended with Gus and Harley winning a huge police case and Harley becoming suspicious of Gus's dad (details of which I can't remember).
In 2003 Harley and Gus stuck by each other through everything. She got her son back after he had a terrible accident. And then she and Gus were on the personal mission of their lives. They investigated Gus's past and realized he had been adopted. Gus how so much to deal with when he discovered his was the son of Alan Spaulding, and his mother was a former Spaulding maid, Lucia. It was a tough adjustment and a real shocker. Gus wanted to get to know his Spaulding family, but he knew the warnings of how deceitful Alan was. Alan also never liked Harley, so Gus tried to get to know the Spauldings without being sucked into their wealthy world. The hardest thing Gus dealt with this year was Harley being shot on the job during a domestic disturbance. She almost died, but she wasn't ready to leave Gus and her children. Then they were no longer partners because Harley quit the force, but their love was as strong as ever since Gus proposed at their home. He had given her his adoptive mom's, Angela's, ring as a "training" ring the year before, but this year was the real thing. They were engaged for over a full year. A big case that put GusH at odds was the Garden of Eden murders (referring to Eden's escort business). Harley wasn't a cop, but she was investigating behind Gus's back. She believed that Eden was the murderer, but Gus had trouble dealing with that. Turns out that Eden was innocent. Then GusH were on to another case but on opposing sides. Harley began a detective agency, and her first client was a woman looking for her missing daughter, The police picked up the case too, and GusH made a bet with each other about who would solve the case first. Gus had always been competitive with Harley on the force; they always bantered at work. During this case they had lots of fun bantering, and the competitiveness proved to be a huge aphrodisiac. They did take the case very seriously, and the daughter was found. Harley technically won the bet, but it was a close call. They called it a tie and celebrated by "getting a room" at the hospital (hehe). The year ended with Gus not knowing about Harley working for Jeffrey O'Neill. He was kept in the dark a couple times over the years, unfortunately, but it was never anything too serious.
In 2004 Gus also began working with Jeffrey. He had to infiltrate the Spauldings by joining Spaulding Enterprises. He and Harley were both working for Jeffrey behind each other's back, but soon they worked together. It was a big case involving drug smuggling. Gus had some undercover assignments while Harley had to worm her way into another man's business, which almost went too far. But nothing disrupted GusH's relationship...yet. Gus had to deal with saying farewell to his sister when she had to go into the Witness Protection Program. We saw a new side to Gus once the drug case was solved; it was a side we never thought we would see. His aunt Alexandra was the person in charge of the drug smuggling, and Alan begged Gus to keep the secret. What was Gus to do? He was forced into protecting his family, and everything went downhill from there because he even kept it from Harley. He was not the kind of man who would keep something like that from his girl. The secret was a big burden for Gus, but it was not revealed until one and a half months later. Frank, Harley's brother, was set up for something, and Gus could have stopped that from happening. It was bad. But in the mean time, GusH finally planned their wedding, which was to be a grand Spaulding affair. Gus had decided to tell Harley the truth right before the ceremony occurred, but he was too late. There was a security tape showing Gus deciding to keep the secret, and Harley viewed it. She was crushed. He tried to explain, but she would not hear it. She exploded at him, and they were over. No wedding. He chose his family over her and betrayed her. Gus was then labeled untrustworthy; how could the trust ever return? Gus was longing for Harley for months; we saw how much of a mess he is without her. What brought them slowly together again was Phillip's "murder". Anyone could have shot him since he became a terrible person (and even demolished Harley's house). Gus found Harley after it was already done. She looked a wreck, and he helped her. That was only the beginning. The year ended with GusH sharing an amazingly long kiss on Christmas and Harley being the prime suspect in Phillip's "murder".
2005 brought us renewed hope for Gus and Harley. Gus proved that he is trustworthy and that he would do anything for Harley. He gave Harley her land back and immediately began planning to have her house rebuilt. We saw how much GusH truly and deeply love each other. They faced one of their toughest battles: Harley going to prison. She was innocent, but so much evidence mounted against her. Gus became her lawyer, and defending Harley was his first trial. He had no doubts about her innocence, and he stayed true to her. He stuck by her through the whole ordeal. Harley wasn't sure of her innocence because she could not remember what happened to her that night; she wasn't nearly as optimistic as Gus. There was a month of bail hearings and whatnot before the actual trial, and together they tried finding Phillip's "killer". No luck, though. The events of the trial didn't help Harley at all, and she prepared for a guilty verdict. Through all of this, Gus was determined to keep their relationship professional, but they were gradually falling in love all over again. He also did just about everything he could to prove her innocence, but she was guilty of 2nd-degree murder and sentenced to prison for 15-20 years (I think). While she was in there, Gus was held captive by Olivia Spencer for a while (for reasons I don't remember). It was rough, and he imagined Harley being there with him once. Harley dreamed about Gus often while in prison, and he did sneak in too see her once (he stole a guard's uniform). Harley was only in prison for about two months; there was a huge prison break with the help of her ex-husband, Mallet. Gus caught up to them, and GusH became lovers of the run. They were on a mission to find Phillip's real "killer", which led them to New York City. While on this fun and dangerous adventure, they became a couple again. They re-connected on many levels, and their love was stronger than ever. Eventually it was revealed that Alan shot Phillip, and Harley won her freedom. GusH became engaged again, and a month later they were married in a simple yet beautiful ceremony outside Company Restaurant in the courtyard. With Harley's sons their family was complete but not their house. The remainder of the year showed GusH mostly happily married, but Harley had trouble getting Mallet out of her head. The year ended with Alan being released from an asylum and Gus worried about him going after Harley. Gus left home to take care of Alan, making sure his wife was safe.
In 2006 we saw more obstacles for Gus and Harley. Gus was gone for a whole month before even viewers knew what happened to him. We knew he went after Alan, but we didn't know where he went or what he intended to do with him. He was out to protect Harley like he has always done. Harley didn't know anything either, just the reason he was gone. She searched for him, and for three months she tried not to give up hope. Poor Gus had been in a car accident with Alan, and they were retrieved by Beth, Alan's current wife. But for some reason she held them captive at a cabin. Both men were seriously injured, and she did what she could to "help" their injuries. Gus fought to leave and get back to Harley, but he couldn't. Meanwhile, all signs pointed to Gus being dead, and Harley had no choice but to grieve for her husband. She and Mallet had been growing closer during this ordeal, and they took comfort in each other for one night (meaning, they slept together). Harley gained a renew hope in Gus being alive, and she eventually found him. Gus shared a long, joyous reunion with his girl before everyone else knew he was back. But damage had been done. While in the cabin, Gus became hooked on painkillers. He had a very powerful addiction and a very sore leg. Harley didn't know of the addiction for a while, but she discovered it on her own. He tried going to rehab, but he left immediately because he couldn't handle not being able to have contact with Harley. All he needed was her. At the cabin with her and sheer willpower he faced 48 hours of detoxification. It seemed he was done with painkillers, and on a whim he and Harley renewed their vows. They had wound up on an island for an investigation and discovered that Phillip was alive and in hiding. Also while there, Gus discovered Harley and Mallet's fling, and he was crushed. He began popping pills again. He didn't let on about him knowing at first, but soon he couldn't keep his cool anymore. He had a huge confrontation with Harley, and they were over again. His addiction was back, and he was a mess again. But he picked himself up and got back in shape. He realized that he could get past Harley's mistake, and he was determined to win her back. Harley returned to town after a small trip to find Gus doing well, completely clean of drugs, and attempting to finish her house. The reunited and built their house together, but it still wasn't 100% complete. They were happy the rest of the year with Zach and Jude. They became partners on the police force again, and an abandoned baby, Sidney, kind of fell into their lap. They took care of her for one night and realized it was the right time to expand their family. They had always thought about having children together. They talked about it, and Gus wanted twins - a boy and a girl. They tried to make a baby...and tried...and tried. But they learned that Gus was sterile from a chemical exposure during his FBI days. They had no chance, but Sidney re-entered their lives. And Gus was so smitten with her; he wanted to have a child of his own more than anything. The year ended with GusH beginning the battle to adopt Sidney.
In 2007 we saw the slow, step-by-step destruction of GusH and a personality change in both of them. But it began with them being united and living happily in their house. They tried to adopt Sidney, but her family from another state wanted her too. The biggest barrier was the fact that Harley gave up her daughter, Daisy/Susan, when she was just 17. She wasn't being a good mother to her now since Daisy had so much freedom at her boarding school. Daisy was forced to move return to Springfield, and GusH saw just how rebellious she was. They had their hands full with her. Harley was dumbfounded while Gus had to fight off Daisy's crush on him. The worst thing Daisy did was lure back Gus's first love, Natalia, into his life. Everything was fine at first. Harley and Natalia got along while Gus remained completely devoted to Harley. But while Daisy was in juvenile detention for a few months, it was discovered that Gus and Natalia have a son together, Rafe, who was also in juvie. That's when Gus and Harley slowly pulled apart. And Dylan, Daisy's father, returning to town didn't help either. Gus tried making things right with Natalia and Rafe while Harley felt drawn to Dylan and raising Daisy with him. GusH had trouble handling their teens together, especially since they began dating. Everything fell apart; the once-happy home came tumbling down. Gus went trough a change when he believed Harley slept with Dylan (she didn't), and he slept with Natalia out of rage. That is an act that Gus would never do; he was never the cheating type. But he made that one mistake and tried making things right with Harley. They really tried to fix everything as their second wedding anniversary passed, but they ultimately chose to end their marriage. Harley pushed him away, and he went straight to Natalia - something that he wouldn't do. Normally, he'd fight for Harley, but he just let her go. He tried making a family with Rafe and Natalia and eventually proposed to Natalia. Meanwhile, Harley became smitten with Cyrus Foley, her niece's boyfriends at the time. That's something out of the blue for her because he wouldn't hurt her niece like that. And both Gus and Harley wouldn't be able to move on from each other so fast, but strangely, they did. Gus's life didn't include Harley much anymore. A terrible annulment occurred between them, but it didn't quite go through. They divorced, and that was that. Gus continued to be there for Zach and Jude, though; he was their father in a sense. The year ended with Gus beginning a close friendship with Olivia, who had a heart condition, and Natalia being suspicious.
In 2008 we saw the end of a wonderful man. Before that, however, Gus began dividing his time between two women. He did marry Natalia, but Olivia wanted him for herself. The two women battled for him, but nothing physical occurred of course because of Olivia's condition. That condition was an advantage for her because she could always pretend she had trouble breathing or was feeling faint, and Gus would be there if she needed him. He was always a protector; I think he was a sucker for damsels in distress. He did get pretty close to Olivia, but he claimed to love Natalia. He wasn't in love with Olivia. Harley was barely a part of his life; they bumped into each other every now and then. He was still around for her sons, of course. But most of his screen time was divided between Natalia, Olivia, and Rafe. Olivia heart gradually turned worse...eventuall to the point where she would die if she didn't get a new heart. It was only a matter of time for her, and Gus and Natalia supported her and her daughters. Olivia wanted to marry Gus as her time started diminishing, but she married Jeffrey, who would look after her daughters. Gus remained a great friend to her till his tragic end... Olivia was whisked to the hospital, and Gus's final scenes alive and uninjured were with Harley first and then Natalia at the new house he bought for them and Rafe. Unfortunately, when he finally received news of Olivia, he borrowed a motorcycle. And that's when tears began for everyone.
As it says at the beginning of this entry, I began it on Monday of this week. It is now Wednesday. Gus had to have surgery to stop bleeding in his head. Harley sensed he might not make it, and GusH shared a tearful goodbye. Natalia got to say goodbye too. When the surgery was over, Dr. Rick Bauer said he was barely hanging on. He didn't hang on much longer, and that was the end of a heroic, funny, offbeat, endearing character. He was all about saving other people and making sacrifices for others. Like Harley said today, "He died the way he lived," because his heart has gone to Olivia.
Gus Aitoro was one in a million (as is Ricky). He had a wonderful seven-year run. We will never forget him. He'll live forever in our thoughts and hearts. We'll always love him and miss him. And we will miss his amazing relationship with one Harley Cooper. They were the light of Guiding Light (in my opinion).
LONG LIVE, GUS!
GUS & HARLEY FOREVER!
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As most online people know, Ricky Paull Goldin had decided to leave Guiding Light and Gus will perish from injuries of a motorcycle accident. His heart will go to Olivia, who is dying and needs a new heart. Harley will have a tearful goodbye with Gus, and every Gus/Harley fan will be emotional wrecks this entire week. It's a sad time, especially for GusHers, but we will always remember the character of Gus Aitoro and Ricky's excellent portrayal of him. He'll forever be near and dear to our hearts. His relationship with Harley will be treasured and never forgotten.
Gus (and Ricky) will be missed so much, but as we grieve, we'll also look back on his amazing seven-year history. I present to you now Gus Aitoro year by year.....
In April 2001 we were introduced to Gus as an FBI agent. He came to town to investigate the Santos family with the SPD. His and Harley's first words to each other were along the lines of, "Who the hell are you?" He became Harley's boss, and they shared an office. But it was not love at first sight. They hated each other, and they bickered constantly. Gus was an arrogant jerk set on destroying the Santos's, and he belittled Harley many times. It was difficult to like him, especially since he was brought on to be Harley's new love interest. But as the year went on, we saw glimmers of humanity. There was much more to him that meets the eye. He slowly showed Harley that he does have a heart, feelings, and compassion. It was also eventually revealed that his dad, Joe, was killed by a member of the Santos clan and his real name is Nick August. He opened up to Harley about his dad, and he even delivered her second son, Jude. Harley began having feelings for him even though she repeatedly denied it. Gus began pursuing her; he knew there was an intense attraction between them. They shared a few kisses, but Harley was still in denial. Only she knew his soft side, though, while the rest of Springfield hated him completely. As the year ended, Gus contemplated leaving town but stayed because of Harley.
In 2002 we witnessed the glorious first year of GusH being a couple. They slowly built a wonderful, magical relationship despite her family being against them. Gus was no longer with the FBI; he became a SPD detective, working side by side Harley. He struggled admitting his true feelings for her on Valentine's Day, their first date, and other moments. He stumbled with words, he didn't like talking about his past, and he didn't want to rush their relationship. He respected the fact that she wasn't fully ready to be in another committed relationship. Gus had a major breakthrough when he finally let go of his vendetta against the Santos's. He didn't need it anymore since he now had Harley. With that, he showed what a good, funny, romantic, and adorable man he is. And only Harley understood him and saw him for who he truly was for the longest time. Her family thought he was a bad guy and so did her children's fathers. But Gus and Harley fell in love and moved in together. And Gus showed that he's good with children; he could care for Harley's kids just fine. Gus and Harley's love proved to be very strong against obstacles: Marina setting up Gus to look like a pedophile; Phillip gaining full custody of his & Harley's son, Zach; Gus's sister, Eden, coming to town. Gus was torn between Eden and Harley for many months because they didn't get along. Gus & Harley even took a short break so she could get Zach back, but they couldn't stay away from each other. They were in love, and nothing could come between them. The year ended with Gus and Harley winning a huge police case and Harley becoming suspicious of Gus's dad (details of which I can't remember).
In 2003 Harley and Gus stuck by each other through everything. She got her son back after he had a terrible accident. And then she and Gus were on the personal mission of their lives. They investigated Gus's past and realized he had been adopted. Gus how so much to deal with when he discovered his was the son of Alan Spaulding, and his mother was a former Spaulding maid, Lucia. It was a tough adjustment and a real shocker. Gus wanted to get to know his Spaulding family, but he knew the warnings of how deceitful Alan was. Alan also never liked Harley, so Gus tried to get to know the Spauldings without being sucked into their wealthy world. The hardest thing Gus dealt with this year was Harley being shot on the job during a domestic disturbance. She almost died, but she wasn't ready to leave Gus and her children. Then they were no longer partners because Harley quit the force, but their love was as strong as ever since Gus proposed at their home. He had given her his adoptive mom's, Angela's, ring as a "training" ring the year before, but this year was the real thing. They were engaged for over a full year. A big case that put GusH at odds was the Garden of Eden murders (referring to Eden's escort business). Harley wasn't a cop, but she was investigating behind Gus's back. She believed that Eden was the murderer, but Gus had trouble dealing with that. Turns out that Eden was innocent. Then GusH were on to another case but on opposing sides. Harley began a detective agency, and her first client was a woman looking for her missing daughter, The police picked up the case too, and GusH made a bet with each other about who would solve the case first. Gus had always been competitive with Harley on the force; they always bantered at work. During this case they had lots of fun bantering, and the competitiveness proved to be a huge aphrodisiac. They did take the case very seriously, and the daughter was found. Harley technically won the bet, but it was a close call. They called it a tie and celebrated by "getting a room" at the hospital (hehe). The year ended with Gus not knowing about Harley working for Jeffrey O'Neill. He was kept in the dark a couple times over the years, unfortunately, but it was never anything too serious.
In 2004 Gus also began working with Jeffrey. He had to infiltrate the Spauldings by joining Spaulding Enterprises. He and Harley were both working for Jeffrey behind each other's back, but soon they worked together. It was a big case involving drug smuggling. Gus had some undercover assignments while Harley had to worm her way into another man's business, which almost went too far. But nothing disrupted GusH's relationship...yet. Gus had to deal with saying farewell to his sister when she had to go into the Witness Protection Program. We saw a new side to Gus once the drug case was solved; it was a side we never thought we would see. His aunt Alexandra was the person in charge of the drug smuggling, and Alan begged Gus to keep the secret. What was Gus to do? He was forced into protecting his family, and everything went downhill from there because he even kept it from Harley. He was not the kind of man who would keep something like that from his girl. The secret was a big burden for Gus, but it was not revealed until one and a half months later. Frank, Harley's brother, was set up for something, and Gus could have stopped that from happening. It was bad. But in the mean time, GusH finally planned their wedding, which was to be a grand Spaulding affair. Gus had decided to tell Harley the truth right before the ceremony occurred, but he was too late. There was a security tape showing Gus deciding to keep the secret, and Harley viewed it. She was crushed. He tried to explain, but she would not hear it. She exploded at him, and they were over. No wedding. He chose his family over her and betrayed her. Gus was then labeled untrustworthy; how could the trust ever return? Gus was longing for Harley for months; we saw how much of a mess he is without her. What brought them slowly together again was Phillip's "murder". Anyone could have shot him since he became a terrible person (and even demolished Harley's house). Gus found Harley after it was already done. She looked a wreck, and he helped her. That was only the beginning. The year ended with GusH sharing an amazingly long kiss on Christmas and Harley being the prime suspect in Phillip's "murder".
2005 brought us renewed hope for Gus and Harley. Gus proved that he is trustworthy and that he would do anything for Harley. He gave Harley her land back and immediately began planning to have her house rebuilt. We saw how much GusH truly and deeply love each other. They faced one of their toughest battles: Harley going to prison. She was innocent, but so much evidence mounted against her. Gus became her lawyer, and defending Harley was his first trial. He had no doubts about her innocence, and he stayed true to her. He stuck by her through the whole ordeal. Harley wasn't sure of her innocence because she could not remember what happened to her that night; she wasn't nearly as optimistic as Gus. There was a month of bail hearings and whatnot before the actual trial, and together they tried finding Phillip's "killer". No luck, though. The events of the trial didn't help Harley at all, and she prepared for a guilty verdict. Through all of this, Gus was determined to keep their relationship professional, but they were gradually falling in love all over again. He also did just about everything he could to prove her innocence, but she was guilty of 2nd-degree murder and sentenced to prison for 15-20 years (I think). While she was in there, Gus was held captive by Olivia Spencer for a while (for reasons I don't remember). It was rough, and he imagined Harley being there with him once. Harley dreamed about Gus often while in prison, and he did sneak in too see her once (he stole a guard's uniform). Harley was only in prison for about two months; there was a huge prison break with the help of her ex-husband, Mallet. Gus caught up to them, and GusH became lovers of the run. They were on a mission to find Phillip's real "killer", which led them to New York City. While on this fun and dangerous adventure, they became a couple again. They re-connected on many levels, and their love was stronger than ever. Eventually it was revealed that Alan shot Phillip, and Harley won her freedom. GusH became engaged again, and a month later they were married in a simple yet beautiful ceremony outside Company Restaurant in the courtyard. With Harley's sons their family was complete but not their house. The remainder of the year showed GusH mostly happily married, but Harley had trouble getting Mallet out of her head. The year ended with Alan being released from an asylum and Gus worried about him going after Harley. Gus left home to take care of Alan, making sure his wife was safe.
In 2006 we saw more obstacles for Gus and Harley. Gus was gone for a whole month before even viewers knew what happened to him. We knew he went after Alan, but we didn't know where he went or what he intended to do with him. He was out to protect Harley like he has always done. Harley didn't know anything either, just the reason he was gone. She searched for him, and for three months she tried not to give up hope. Poor Gus had been in a car accident with Alan, and they were retrieved by Beth, Alan's current wife. But for some reason she held them captive at a cabin. Both men were seriously injured, and she did what she could to "help" their injuries. Gus fought to leave and get back to Harley, but he couldn't. Meanwhile, all signs pointed to Gus being dead, and Harley had no choice but to grieve for her husband. She and Mallet had been growing closer during this ordeal, and they took comfort in each other for one night (meaning, they slept together). Harley gained a renew hope in Gus being alive, and she eventually found him. Gus shared a long, joyous reunion with his girl before everyone else knew he was back. But damage had been done. While in the cabin, Gus became hooked on painkillers. He had a very powerful addiction and a very sore leg. Harley didn't know of the addiction for a while, but she discovered it on her own. He tried going to rehab, but he left immediately because he couldn't handle not being able to have contact with Harley. All he needed was her. At the cabin with her and sheer willpower he faced 48 hours of detoxification. It seemed he was done with painkillers, and on a whim he and Harley renewed their vows. They had wound up on an island for an investigation and discovered that Phillip was alive and in hiding. Also while there, Gus discovered Harley and Mallet's fling, and he was crushed. He began popping pills again. He didn't let on about him knowing at first, but soon he couldn't keep his cool anymore. He had a huge confrontation with Harley, and they were over again. His addiction was back, and he was a mess again. But he picked himself up and got back in shape. He realized that he could get past Harley's mistake, and he was determined to win her back. Harley returned to town after a small trip to find Gus doing well, completely clean of drugs, and attempting to finish her house. The reunited and built their house together, but it still wasn't 100% complete. They were happy the rest of the year with Zach and Jude. They became partners on the police force again, and an abandoned baby, Sidney, kind of fell into their lap. They took care of her for one night and realized it was the right time to expand their family. They had always thought about having children together. They talked about it, and Gus wanted twins - a boy and a girl. They tried to make a baby...and tried...and tried. But they learned that Gus was sterile from a chemical exposure during his FBI days. They had no chance, but Sidney re-entered their lives. And Gus was so smitten with her; he wanted to have a child of his own more than anything. The year ended with GusH beginning the battle to adopt Sidney.
In 2007 we saw the slow, step-by-step destruction of GusH and a personality change in both of them. But it began with them being united and living happily in their house. They tried to adopt Sidney, but her family from another state wanted her too. The biggest barrier was the fact that Harley gave up her daughter, Daisy/Susan, when she was just 17. She wasn't being a good mother to her now since Daisy had so much freedom at her boarding school. Daisy was forced to move return to Springfield, and GusH saw just how rebellious she was. They had their hands full with her. Harley was dumbfounded while Gus had to fight off Daisy's crush on him. The worst thing Daisy did was lure back Gus's first love, Natalia, into his life. Everything was fine at first. Harley and Natalia got along while Gus remained completely devoted to Harley. But while Daisy was in juvenile detention for a few months, it was discovered that Gus and Natalia have a son together, Rafe, who was also in juvie. That's when Gus and Harley slowly pulled apart. And Dylan, Daisy's father, returning to town didn't help either. Gus tried making things right with Natalia and Rafe while Harley felt drawn to Dylan and raising Daisy with him. GusH had trouble handling their teens together, especially since they began dating. Everything fell apart; the once-happy home came tumbling down. Gus went trough a change when he believed Harley slept with Dylan (she didn't), and he slept with Natalia out of rage. That is an act that Gus would never do; he was never the cheating type. But he made that one mistake and tried making things right with Harley. They really tried to fix everything as their second wedding anniversary passed, but they ultimately chose to end their marriage. Harley pushed him away, and he went straight to Natalia - something that he wouldn't do. Normally, he'd fight for Harley, but he just let her go. He tried making a family with Rafe and Natalia and eventually proposed to Natalia. Meanwhile, Harley became smitten with Cyrus Foley, her niece's boyfriends at the time. That's something out of the blue for her because he wouldn't hurt her niece like that. And both Gus and Harley wouldn't be able to move on from each other so fast, but strangely, they did. Gus's life didn't include Harley much anymore. A terrible annulment occurred between them, but it didn't quite go through. They divorced, and that was that. Gus continued to be there for Zach and Jude, though; he was their father in a sense. The year ended with Gus beginning a close friendship with Olivia, who had a heart condition, and Natalia being suspicious.
In 2008 we saw the end of a wonderful man. Before that, however, Gus began dividing his time between two women. He did marry Natalia, but Olivia wanted him for herself. The two women battled for him, but nothing physical occurred of course because of Olivia's condition. That condition was an advantage for her because she could always pretend she had trouble breathing or was feeling faint, and Gus would be there if she needed him. He was always a protector; I think he was a sucker for damsels in distress. He did get pretty close to Olivia, but he claimed to love Natalia. He wasn't in love with Olivia. Harley was barely a part of his life; they bumped into each other every now and then. He was still around for her sons, of course. But most of his screen time was divided between Natalia, Olivia, and Rafe. Olivia heart gradually turned worse...eventuall to the point where she would die if she didn't get a new heart. It was only a matter of time for her, and Gus and Natalia supported her and her daughters. Olivia wanted to marry Gus as her time started diminishing, but she married Jeffrey, who would look after her daughters. Gus remained a great friend to her till his tragic end... Olivia was whisked to the hospital, and Gus's final scenes alive and uninjured were with Harley first and then Natalia at the new house he bought for them and Rafe. Unfortunately, when he finally received news of Olivia, he borrowed a motorcycle. And that's when tears began for everyone.
As it says at the beginning of this entry, I began it on Monday of this week. It is now Wednesday. Gus had to have surgery to stop bleeding in his head. Harley sensed he might not make it, and GusH shared a tearful goodbye. Natalia got to say goodbye too. When the surgery was over, Dr. Rick Bauer said he was barely hanging on. He didn't hang on much longer, and that was the end of a heroic, funny, offbeat, endearing character. He was all about saving other people and making sacrifices for others. Like Harley said today, "He died the way he lived," because his heart has gone to Olivia.
Gus Aitoro was one in a million (as is Ricky). He had a wonderful seven-year run. We will never forget him. He'll live forever in our thoughts and hearts. We'll always love him and miss him. And we will miss his amazing relationship with one Harley Cooper. They were the light of Guiding Light (in my opinion).
GUS & HARLEY FOREVER!
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3.01.2008
GL - Beth Ehlers' Response
Beth Ehlers (Harley), Ricky Paull Goldin's costar and close friend, has sent an email to fans replying to Ricky's departure.
Here is what she had to say:
Hello Everyone,
How can we say goodbye to Ricky Paull Goldin?? I know for all of you the idea of "Guiding Light" without "GUS" is unimaginable. For me the idea of "Harley" without "Gus" is unimaginable! 2008 was supposed to be the year of their reconciliation. Ricky and I both anticipated those scenes, to finally get the opportunity to fall in love again . . . for all of you. Obviously, that won't happen now. And it's a tragedy. Please know that I am as saddened, as devastated as all of you. He isn't just the love of Harley's life. He is my best friend. Please send good wishes his way! And maybe in the future, who knows . . . maybe these two people will meet again.
I can only hope . . .
All my love,
Beth Ehlers
This touches my heart so much. I love how close she and Ricky are; it always showed on screen. They will really miss working together and hanging out at the work. It's sad that even they were looking forward to Gus & Harley reuniting. It seems that they love GusH just as much as the fans do. And of course, they love their fans; they knew GusHers haven't been liking the storytelling these past couple months. They wanted to reunite on-screen for the fans, and now that won't happen. It's a devastation for everyone. But like Beth says, who knows what'll happen in the future.
Hopefully we'll get to see Beth and Ricky act together again. I'd be happy to see them together on any show, but it'd be the greatest to see them reunite on GL as Gus & Harley down the line "when" Ricky comes back. They always come back.
Here is what she had to say:
Hello Everyone,
How can we say goodbye to Ricky Paull Goldin?? I know for all of you the idea of "Guiding Light" without "GUS" is unimaginable. For me the idea of "Harley" without "Gus" is unimaginable! 2008 was supposed to be the year of their reconciliation. Ricky and I both anticipated those scenes, to finally get the opportunity to fall in love again . . . for all of you. Obviously, that won't happen now. And it's a tragedy. Please know that I am as saddened, as devastated as all of you. He isn't just the love of Harley's life. He is my best friend. Please send good wishes his way! And maybe in the future, who knows . . . maybe these two people will meet again.
I can only hope . . .
All my love,
Beth Ehlers
This touches my heart so much. I love how close she and Ricky are; it always showed on screen. They will really miss working together and hanging out at the work. It's sad that even they were looking forward to Gus & Harley reuniting. It seems that they love GusH just as much as the fans do. And of course, they love their fans; they knew GusHers haven't been liking the storytelling these past couple months. They wanted to reunite on-screen for the fans, and now that won't happen. It's a devastation for everyone. But like Beth says, who knows what'll happen in the future.
Hopefully we'll get to see Beth and Ricky act together again. I'd be happy to see them together on any show, but it'd be the greatest to see them reunite on GL as Gus & Harley down the line "when" Ricky comes back. They always come back.
GL - Ricky Paull Goldin Announcement
Ricky posted a letter to his fans at Guiding Light's official fan club site confirming his departure from the beloved role of Gus Aitoro. He'll be gone within a few months, I take it.
Here's what he had to say:
To my friends and extended family,
I want you to be one of the first to know that I’m planning on leaving “Guiding Light” when my contract expires in a couple of weeks. “Gus” has been a huge part of my life and I will really miss portraying him and bringing this character to life for you. My seven years on Guiding Light have been a wonderful experience. Now it’s time for a new adventure, a new chapter in my life. I will especially miss working with Beth Ehlers, since it doesn’t get any better than “Gus and Harley.”
Thank you! It means so much to me that you have shown your continued love and support for me and the character of “Gus.” I hope that you will continue to write with your thoughts and ideas. You can still email me at this email address, at least for the next few months.
I am sure that the powers-that-be at Guiding Light would love to hear from you as well. It is always good to let them know how you feel. That, of course, is your right.
You can write to them at:
Guiding Light
CBS-TV
51 West 52nd Street
New York, NY 10019
I will keep you up to date on my future projects on my website:
www.rickypaullgoldin.com/
I also want to thank you for all the cards and emails that I have received in regards to my father’s passing. It really meant the world to me.
So stay tuned and I’ll be back real soon, just wait and see! It won’t be long!
All my love and deep felt appreciation,
Ricky
He will be missed greatly. Gus & Harley will continue to be missed. I am deeply saddened by this news. GL won't be the same without him or without GusH. I always had hope that Gus & Harley would reunite sometime this year, but those hopes have been shattered. I can only wish for a grand finale for GusH with wonderful goodbye/closure scenes. There needs to be a good conclusion to the Gus/Harley journey.
Rumor has it that Ricky is moving to All My Children to portray Jake Martin.
Here's what he had to say:
To my friends and extended family,
I want you to be one of the first to know that I’m planning on leaving “Guiding Light” when my contract expires in a couple of weeks. “Gus” has been a huge part of my life and I will really miss portraying him and bringing this character to life for you. My seven years on Guiding Light have been a wonderful experience. Now it’s time for a new adventure, a new chapter in my life. I will especially miss working with Beth Ehlers, since it doesn’t get any better than “Gus and Harley.”
Thank you! It means so much to me that you have shown your continued love and support for me and the character of “Gus.” I hope that you will continue to write with your thoughts and ideas. You can still email me at this email address, at least for the next few months.
I am sure that the powers-that-be at Guiding Light would love to hear from you as well. It is always good to let them know how you feel. That, of course, is your right.
You can write to them at:
Guiding Light
CBS-TV
51 West 52nd Street
New York, NY 10019
I will keep you up to date on my future projects on my website:
www.rickypaullgoldin.com/
I also want to thank you for all the cards and emails that I have received in regards to my father’s passing. It really meant the world to me.
So stay tuned and I’ll be back real soon, just wait and see! It won’t be long!
All my love and deep felt appreciation,
Ricky
He will be missed greatly. Gus & Harley will continue to be missed. I am deeply saddened by this news. GL won't be the same without him or without GusH. I always had hope that Gus & Harley would reunite sometime this year, but those hopes have been shattered. I can only wish for a grand finale for GusH with wonderful goodbye/closure scenes. There needs to be a good conclusion to the Gus/Harley journey.
Rumor has it that Ricky is moving to All My Children to portray Jake Martin.
Favorite Returns
Top 5 Returns
5. All My Children's Jesse & Angie Hubbard - 2008: I'm glad AMC has brought back two characters from so long ago; it's a great way to connect the past and the present. I was born in the 80s, so I didn't get to see this supercouple in their heyday, but I've known of them for quite some time. I'm happy I get to see them in action together and see what I missed out on from their first time around. So far their return has been enjoyable and exciting. I expected TPTB to fudge it up somehow, but that's not the case. I love that their son is the reason for them to be in Pine Valley again and to reconnect. The moment they finally reunited (at the train station) was tear-jerking and memorable. Darnell Williams and Debbie Morgan are quite a match. I can't wait to see Jesse & Angie team up with Tad to take on the men who Jesse has been running from.
4. One Life To Live's Gabrielle Medina - 2001: This was really exciting for me. She had been gone for ten years, and I was too young to watch when she was on. I had known about her and her relationship with Max Holden for a while. I was always intrigued by her and thought I'd like her. So I was glad she returned, and it surprised me. Asa Buchanan had a mystery bride, and it turned out to be Gabrielle! I remember the moment Max lifted the veil, and there she was with her hair extremely short. I saw the sparks between her and Max instantly, but unfortunately, they never were a couple again. I think it was a marriage of convenience between her and Asa, but it's that first moment of her return that made it so notable.
3. All My Children's Maria Santos - 2002: Maria was my favorite character in 1996 and 1997 when I began watching soaps. Her "death" devastated me, but I always hope she would return. And she finally did...five years later. It was really exciting and emotional for me. AMC botched her return completely with that dumb amnesia, "Maureen Gorman" story, but it meant a lot just the fact that she was back. And we all knew she was really Maria; she had to be. It was only a matter of time before her memory came back. I just didn't think it would take so long; she was involved with Aiden and had been with Zach. It was frustrating, but eventually there was a huge payoff. The story became exciting when her memories came flooding back to her. I cried when she reunited & reconnected with Edmund and her children. Maria was finally herself again, and she was back with the love of her life. Because of that, her return was wonderful.
2. General Hospital's Laura Webber - 2006: This was the moment every GH fan was waiting for - Laura to wake up from her catatonic state and reunite with her loved ones. Granted, her return only lasted a month, and now she's back to her state. But it was worth it! I cannot forget when Laura finally "woke up" (so to speak) and was her same old self with Luke, her children, Lesley, and others. It was wonderful to see her with Lulu since the last time they were together, Lulu was still a child. Her time with her children was so special, and I loved how she and Luke reunited immediately. They had such a beautiful wedding; it meant so much to me since I didn't see their unforgettable 1980 wedding. When the catatonia began coming back, it was nice that she wanted to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas before she was gone again. And when Laura had to say goodbye to Nicholas, Lucky, Lulu, and Luke... Wow! That was quite an emotional episode for me and many viewers. I'll never forget Luke saying, "Wherever you are, I'm right there with you." And she was at that famous 1st wedding of theirs. How sweet yet sad. Laura will always be Luke's angel.
1. All My Children's Dixie Cooney - 1998: This was when she returned the first time. She had left Tad, divorced him, and moved to West Virginia with Junior. I didn't get to watch much of her before she left, so I was glad to read about her returning in the summer of 98. And thank God she did! Her return was not momentous, but it lead me to have a new favorite character. I became a Dixie & Cady McClain fan almost instantly, and I'm still a huge fan today. Dixie's story improved as the months went on... When she and Tad got into each other's orbit again, I saw the chemistry and wanted them back together so bad. I became a diehard Tad & Dixie fan, and it seemed like forever for them to get back together. That story was good; it mimicked the movie, An Affair To Remember. They had to meet at the top of a building, but she had health problems that prevented her from showing. It took 3+ months of Tad & Dixie thinking they didn't want to be with each other when they secretly did before Tad FINALLY learned she was sick. And they had a beautiful reunion in New York City. It was an agonizing story, but it was well worth the frustration. It was good storytelling, the best T&D story I think I ever witnessed. And it happened thanks to Dixie (and Cady McClain) returning.
5. All My Children's Jesse & Angie Hubbard - 2008: I'm glad AMC has brought back two characters from so long ago; it's a great way to connect the past and the present. I was born in the 80s, so I didn't get to see this supercouple in their heyday, but I've known of them for quite some time. I'm happy I get to see them in action together and see what I missed out on from their first time around. So far their return has been enjoyable and exciting. I expected TPTB to fudge it up somehow, but that's not the case. I love that their son is the reason for them to be in Pine Valley again and to reconnect. The moment they finally reunited (at the train station) was tear-jerking and memorable. Darnell Williams and Debbie Morgan are quite a match. I can't wait to see Jesse & Angie team up with Tad to take on the men who Jesse has been running from.
4. One Life To Live's Gabrielle Medina - 2001: This was really exciting for me. She had been gone for ten years, and I was too young to watch when she was on. I had known about her and her relationship with Max Holden for a while. I was always intrigued by her and thought I'd like her. So I was glad she returned, and it surprised me. Asa Buchanan had a mystery bride, and it turned out to be Gabrielle! I remember the moment Max lifted the veil, and there she was with her hair extremely short. I saw the sparks between her and Max instantly, but unfortunately, they never were a couple again. I think it was a marriage of convenience between her and Asa, but it's that first moment of her return that made it so notable.
3. All My Children's Maria Santos - 2002: Maria was my favorite character in 1996 and 1997 when I began watching soaps. Her "death" devastated me, but I always hope she would return. And she finally did...five years later. It was really exciting and emotional for me. AMC botched her return completely with that dumb amnesia, "Maureen Gorman" story, but it meant a lot just the fact that she was back. And we all knew she was really Maria; she had to be. It was only a matter of time before her memory came back. I just didn't think it would take so long; she was involved with Aiden and had been with Zach. It was frustrating, but eventually there was a huge payoff. The story became exciting when her memories came flooding back to her. I cried when she reunited & reconnected with Edmund and her children. Maria was finally herself again, and she was back with the love of her life. Because of that, her return was wonderful.
2. General Hospital's Laura Webber - 2006: This was the moment every GH fan was waiting for - Laura to wake up from her catatonic state and reunite with her loved ones. Granted, her return only lasted a month, and now she's back to her state. But it was worth it! I cannot forget when Laura finally "woke up" (so to speak) and was her same old self with Luke, her children, Lesley, and others. It was wonderful to see her with Lulu since the last time they were together, Lulu was still a child. Her time with her children was so special, and I loved how she and Luke reunited immediately. They had such a beautiful wedding; it meant so much to me since I didn't see their unforgettable 1980 wedding. When the catatonia began coming back, it was nice that she wanted to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas before she was gone again. And when Laura had to say goodbye to Nicholas, Lucky, Lulu, and Luke... Wow! That was quite an emotional episode for me and many viewers. I'll never forget Luke saying, "Wherever you are, I'm right there with you." And she was at that famous 1st wedding of theirs. How sweet yet sad. Laura will always be Luke's angel.
1. All My Children's Dixie Cooney - 1998: This was when she returned the first time. She had left Tad, divorced him, and moved to West Virginia with Junior. I didn't get to watch much of her before she left, so I was glad to read about her returning in the summer of 98. And thank God she did! Her return was not momentous, but it lead me to have a new favorite character. I became a Dixie & Cady McClain fan almost instantly, and I'm still a huge fan today. Dixie's story improved as the months went on... When she and Tad got into each other's orbit again, I saw the chemistry and wanted them back together so bad. I became a diehard Tad & Dixie fan, and it seemed like forever for them to get back together. That story was good; it mimicked the movie, An Affair To Remember. They had to meet at the top of a building, but she had health problems that prevented her from showing. It took 3+ months of Tad & Dixie thinking they didn't want to be with each other when they secretly did before Tad FINALLY learned she was sick. And they had a beautiful reunion in New York City. It was an agonizing story, but it was well worth the frustration. It was good storytelling, the best T&D story I think I ever witnessed. And it happened thanks to Dixie (and Cady McClain) returning.
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