I haven't been blogging, and I haven't had the urge to blog. I think I may stop, but I'll keep this site open. I will not delete it. Maybe there will be an oddball day that I feel like writing another entry. Soap fans should realize there is plenty to write/blog about. But I just don't feel like writing.
While this blog is on hiatus, you can check out my newest Tumblr blog for fans of the recently canceled soaps: Guiding Children As One Life Turns (or Soap Opera Memories because it's possible the name will change at different points). It's focused on As The World Turns and Guiding Light for now. I will mainly post pictures and videos with short captions to keep it simple for myself.
6.15.2011
9.29.2010
9/17 - The Day The WORLD Stopped Turning
Exactly one year after Guiding Light's finale, we lose As The World Turns. It's tragic. Every year we'll have to mourn both shows at the same time. Instead of blogging about the World's end, I wrote a long entry in my journal. I began the entry on 9/19, and it took a little over a week to finish. I'm a slow writer, and a few days I didn't work on it at all. The entry is a reflection of ATWT while figuring out how important it is/was to me. I felt like writing that out, and now I'm sharing the entry here. It's informal rambling, and it's unrevised so it's exactly what I wrote. I know I can write better, but it is what it is. It comes from a journal.
What As The World Turns Means To Me
--------------------------------------------------------
Sounds like the title of an essay, doesn't it? This seems like a blog entry, but I feel like writing this in a journal. And how do I start? What do I start with? It's a little mind-boggling.
ATWT was on for 54 years. Its finale recently aired on September 17. That's the reason for answering such a question. I'd like to figure out how much ATWT means to me also because I haven't loved it as much as other soaps. It's been at the bottom of the chain. For roughly nine years I've watched it off & on. Sharing the two o'clock time slot with One Life To Live complicated things. I had more loyalty to OLTL because I grew up with it.
I was exposed to ATWT from sleeping over at my grandparents'. They watch all the CBS soaps. I can't say when they started watching ATWT. I believe I became interested in 2001. Memories are very vague. I know Lily (played by the amazing Martha Byrne) caught my attention first. My best friend at the time watch the show a little and like Lily. Really, she reminded me of Lily. I don't recall the other characters. My curiosity of Lily made me watch at least one episode at home, and she was probably in scenes with Holden & maybe even doppelganger/sister Rose. I've always like Lily.
It's hard to remember. Everything is so far buried in my mind. I'll list a couple things I know I saw: an explosion that scarred Barbara's face; Simon, Katie, & Henry on an island in search of a diamond; Jack and Julia. I think I saw Jack & Carly flashbacks. I mistakenly thought he belonged with Julia. Carly seemed like trouble, but Julia was a psycho.
I saw a mean streak with Barbara, and I think this is the first storyline I followed intently. Barbara wanted revenge on 3 women. Rose was with her son, Paul. Emily was with her ex-husband, Hal. She also just plain hated Emily. Carly wanted her fashion business, BRO. All 3 were pregnant in real life and would need to disappear for maternity leave. That's where it got ridiculous, but I was still hooked. Barbara enlisted a crazy doctor to keep them in a spa & give them a rapid aging drug (or whatever it was). I don't recall how they were rescued, but there must have been an antidote. I enjoyed Barbara's rivalries very much.
I don't know if I'd ever have watched ATWT on a long-term regular basis if my all-time favorite soap star, Cady McClain, hadn't joined the show. She was a recast of Rosanna, who was Carly's sister. I was so excited to see her in a different role than All My Children's Dixie. She got to be a bitch. Ro wanted to ruin Carly's life because of stuff from years past. Ro was a delight until the hate went away & she wanted to be a mom. There was chemistry between her & Hunt Block's Craig from day one. They had a good thing for a while. Cady left & returned multiple times. I guess that's another reason for my off & on viewing. If not for this Rosanna, I wouldn't have gotten to know ATWT at such a good time - 2002.
I don't want to go through year by year. This entry isn't about everything I saw each year. But in 2002 I witnessed a Carly & Jack wedding. It was big, beautiful, lavish. the marriage wouldn't last because she had sex with Mike. What made the wedding so exceptional was crazy Julia catching the bouquet. She had a baby with her, claiming it was Jack's. Now that's good soap.
In my time of watching I've come to like these characters: Carly, Jack, Rosanna, Emily, Margo, Tom, Barbara, Katie, Janet, Molly, Luke, Noah, Henry, Allison, Lucinda, Lily, and Holden. All of them were current. I liked these characters when they were on: Hal, Gwen, Will, Maddie, Jessica, Rose, Abigail, Craig Lawlor's Adam, James Stenbeck, Simon, Peyton List's Lucy, and Sierra. Lucinda was one of the vets, and she was a hoot to watch. The other vets were: Nancy, Lisa, Kim, Bob, Susan, and Emma. I've appreciated the veterans over the years because they're vital to the show. They represent history. The vets listed, I can't say I liked too much because my heart wasn't with them. I never knew the history very well, which is a shame.
Somehow I got to love Tom & Margo, and they were the next vets. Tom is Bob & Kim's son. There's a 20+ year history between Tom & Margo with multiple actors portraying them. With me not knowing history, how did I come to love this couple? There was something appealing about them, but I can't say what. They're lovable. Plus Margo appealed to me as a tough detective. They're part of the Hughes family. As ATWT came to an end, I realized the Hughes' were my favorite family. Members of the Hughes I saw: Bob, Kim, Tom, Margo, Nancy, Chris, & Casey. I think that's all the key members. The Hughes family was Oakdale's first, which means history spanning the entire 54 years. They were a real, loving multi-generational family. On soaps these days it's wonderful to see such a family. They were the best family in Oakdale.
The Snyders were second best. They had a farm & were more down-to-earth. They were real too. Not my favorite because there were too many of them and it was guy central. Emma ruled the roost with children Holden & Meg and nephews Brad & Jack. I didn't like Meg. All 4 had children - Snyders everywhere! I just wasn't as interested in them, unfortunately. I still enjoyed watching them. They include my all-time favorite couple: Jack & Carly. I didn't know how awesome they are until the final year of the show. In the final days, I realized they're ATWT's best couple. There were 13 years of CarJack. I can now call myself a CarJacker - sad now that ATWT is over. Carly & Jack have so much chemistry. Their symbol is a compass; they are each other's "true north". Carly calls Jack G-Man. He's a cop and her hero. He saved her from herself and vice versa. They had the perfect happy ending - wedding and new baby on the way.
The cancellation did not come as a surprise. ATWT didn't stand a chance since sister soap Guiding Light had just ended. I was heartbroken, though, out of fear for the remaining soaps. There are 6 left, and OLTL is the last one in New York City. ATWT had about 9 months left, and I was in so much denial. With GL, I prepared myself as the weeks counted down. With ATWT, I couldn't prepare myself. I guess I didn't want to imagine it ending. I was so use to it being on that I couldn't imaging it being gone. So, the final week was very sad & touching, especially since most of it revolved around Carly & Jack and Dusty & Janet.
The final episode was remarkable. I wasn't sure what to expect. I was concerned since GL's ending was a disappointment to so many. It seemed rushed, and part of it was a year into the future with everyone chummy & happy. I bought into it, but it was a little too perfect. I hoped ATWT's ending would have happiness, but I didn't want to see everyone in the park sharing laughs. ATWT didn't need that. What ATWT did worked. Stories were already wrapped up, and a few characters didn't need to be shown. Thus, the episode wasn't crowded. It had a lot packed into it, but there was a good pace. It was one final day in Oakdale, and at its core was Bob's retirement. He provided wonderful voice-overs as everyone went about a normal day. Also, this day was a month into the future. I don't know how necessary that was, though. Of course I enjoyed the happy CarJack stuff the most. Their last moment was kissing in bed, which was absolutely perfect.
I was eager to see how Lily & Holden would end. They were the biggest supercouple, but Noelle Beck had played Lily the last two years or so. She was never really Lily to me, and she had no chemistry with Jon Hensley. In the last episode I realized I accepted her as Lily. Holden & Lily were left open-ended; there was hope for a reunion soon down the road. I'm fine with that. I think Martha Byrne should have returned. If she did, I'd want Lily & Holden to get back together. Martha & Jon ARE Lily & Holden!
The other two items I anticipated were the final scene & line of the series. Of course the scene went to Bob & Kim. It was time to leave his office, and he didn't know how to say goodbye. She told him to say goodnight, and that's what he did. I didn't realize how perfect that is until later when I learned the first line of the series. Nancy said to her husband, "Good morning, dear." So, there's nothing better than 'goodnight'. There was a beautiful globe that Bob left behind on the desk. The final shot had a spotlight over the globe, and the globe was spinning. Aww...tearjerker! The whole episode was tear-jerking when you thought about never seeing these characters continuing their lives again. I think I'll miss everyone.
ATWT's finale gave hope for the future. I do not want this show to be gone. It's another tragic death in my soap family. The world has stopped turning. We've lost 1 more soap, and it feels like it should still be on the air. There were more stories to be told. This show did not seem like it was on its last leg. Why oh why is it gone forever? ATWT stood for family, romance, social issues, friendship, and community. All in all, it was a damn good soap opera. It didn't go out with a bang in its final year. It was never the most excellent soap, in my opinion, but it was never the worst. In my years of watching, it was just damn good soap. Most of the time. It had its fair share of bad stories, but it was consistent. ATWT was a lovely piece of my soap viewing. What it means to me is: a beautiful soap that I will forever miss. I may not know its rich history, but I got to know ATWT enough to love it very much.
What As The World Turns Means To Me
--------------------------------------------------------
Sounds like the title of an essay, doesn't it? This seems like a blog entry, but I feel like writing this in a journal. And how do I start? What do I start with? It's a little mind-boggling.
ATWT was on for 54 years. Its finale recently aired on September 17. That's the reason for answering such a question. I'd like to figure out how much ATWT means to me also because I haven't loved it as much as other soaps. It's been at the bottom of the chain. For roughly nine years I've watched it off & on. Sharing the two o'clock time slot with One Life To Live complicated things. I had more loyalty to OLTL because I grew up with it.
I was exposed to ATWT from sleeping over at my grandparents'. They watch all the CBS soaps. I can't say when they started watching ATWT. I believe I became interested in 2001. Memories are very vague. I know Lily (played by the amazing Martha Byrne) caught my attention first. My best friend at the time watch the show a little and like Lily. Really, she reminded me of Lily. I don't recall the other characters. My curiosity of Lily made me watch at least one episode at home, and she was probably in scenes with Holden & maybe even doppelganger/sister Rose. I've always like Lily.
It's hard to remember. Everything is so far buried in my mind. I'll list a couple things I know I saw: an explosion that scarred Barbara's face; Simon, Katie, & Henry on an island in search of a diamond; Jack and Julia. I think I saw Jack & Carly flashbacks. I mistakenly thought he belonged with Julia. Carly seemed like trouble, but Julia was a psycho.
I saw a mean streak with Barbara, and I think this is the first storyline I followed intently. Barbara wanted revenge on 3 women. Rose was with her son, Paul. Emily was with her ex-husband, Hal. She also just plain hated Emily. Carly wanted her fashion business, BRO. All 3 were pregnant in real life and would need to disappear for maternity leave. That's where it got ridiculous, but I was still hooked. Barbara enlisted a crazy doctor to keep them in a spa & give them a rapid aging drug (or whatever it was). I don't recall how they were rescued, but there must have been an antidote. I enjoyed Barbara's rivalries very much.
I don't know if I'd ever have watched ATWT on a long-term regular basis if my all-time favorite soap star, Cady McClain, hadn't joined the show. She was a recast of Rosanna, who was Carly's sister. I was so excited to see her in a different role than All My Children's Dixie. She got to be a bitch. Ro wanted to ruin Carly's life because of stuff from years past. Ro was a delight until the hate went away & she wanted to be a mom. There was chemistry between her & Hunt Block's Craig from day one. They had a good thing for a while. Cady left & returned multiple times. I guess that's another reason for my off & on viewing. If not for this Rosanna, I wouldn't have gotten to know ATWT at such a good time - 2002.
I don't want to go through year by year. This entry isn't about everything I saw each year. But in 2002 I witnessed a Carly & Jack wedding. It was big, beautiful, lavish. the marriage wouldn't last because she had sex with Mike. What made the wedding so exceptional was crazy Julia catching the bouquet. She had a baby with her, claiming it was Jack's. Now that's good soap.
In my time of watching I've come to like these characters: Carly, Jack, Rosanna, Emily, Margo, Tom, Barbara, Katie, Janet, Molly, Luke, Noah, Henry, Allison, Lucinda, Lily, and Holden. All of them were current. I liked these characters when they were on: Hal, Gwen, Will, Maddie, Jessica, Rose, Abigail, Craig Lawlor's Adam, James Stenbeck, Simon, Peyton List's Lucy, and Sierra. Lucinda was one of the vets, and she was a hoot to watch. The other vets were: Nancy, Lisa, Kim, Bob, Susan, and Emma. I've appreciated the veterans over the years because they're vital to the show. They represent history. The vets listed, I can't say I liked too much because my heart wasn't with them. I never knew the history very well, which is a shame.
Somehow I got to love Tom & Margo, and they were the next vets. Tom is Bob & Kim's son. There's a 20+ year history between Tom & Margo with multiple actors portraying them. With me not knowing history, how did I come to love this couple? There was something appealing about them, but I can't say what. They're lovable. Plus Margo appealed to me as a tough detective. They're part of the Hughes family. As ATWT came to an end, I realized the Hughes' were my favorite family. Members of the Hughes I saw: Bob, Kim, Tom, Margo, Nancy, Chris, & Casey. I think that's all the key members. The Hughes family was Oakdale's first, which means history spanning the entire 54 years. They were a real, loving multi-generational family. On soaps these days it's wonderful to see such a family. They were the best family in Oakdale.
The Snyders were second best. They had a farm & were more down-to-earth. They were real too. Not my favorite because there were too many of them and it was guy central. Emma ruled the roost with children Holden & Meg and nephews Brad & Jack. I didn't like Meg. All 4 had children - Snyders everywhere! I just wasn't as interested in them, unfortunately. I still enjoyed watching them. They include my all-time favorite couple: Jack & Carly. I didn't know how awesome they are until the final year of the show. In the final days, I realized they're ATWT's best couple. There were 13 years of CarJack. I can now call myself a CarJacker - sad now that ATWT is over. Carly & Jack have so much chemistry. Their symbol is a compass; they are each other's "true north". Carly calls Jack G-Man. He's a cop and her hero. He saved her from herself and vice versa. They had the perfect happy ending - wedding and new baby on the way.
The cancellation did not come as a surprise. ATWT didn't stand a chance since sister soap Guiding Light had just ended. I was heartbroken, though, out of fear for the remaining soaps. There are 6 left, and OLTL is the last one in New York City. ATWT had about 9 months left, and I was in so much denial. With GL, I prepared myself as the weeks counted down. With ATWT, I couldn't prepare myself. I guess I didn't want to imagine it ending. I was so use to it being on that I couldn't imaging it being gone. So, the final week was very sad & touching, especially since most of it revolved around Carly & Jack and Dusty & Janet.
The final episode was remarkable. I wasn't sure what to expect. I was concerned since GL's ending was a disappointment to so many. It seemed rushed, and part of it was a year into the future with everyone chummy & happy. I bought into it, but it was a little too perfect. I hoped ATWT's ending would have happiness, but I didn't want to see everyone in the park sharing laughs. ATWT didn't need that. What ATWT did worked. Stories were already wrapped up, and a few characters didn't need to be shown. Thus, the episode wasn't crowded. It had a lot packed into it, but there was a good pace. It was one final day in Oakdale, and at its core was Bob's retirement. He provided wonderful voice-overs as everyone went about a normal day. Also, this day was a month into the future. I don't know how necessary that was, though. Of course I enjoyed the happy CarJack stuff the most. Their last moment was kissing in bed, which was absolutely perfect.
I was eager to see how Lily & Holden would end. They were the biggest supercouple, but Noelle Beck had played Lily the last two years or so. She was never really Lily to me, and she had no chemistry with Jon Hensley. In the last episode I realized I accepted her as Lily. Holden & Lily were left open-ended; there was hope for a reunion soon down the road. I'm fine with that. I think Martha Byrne should have returned. If she did, I'd want Lily & Holden to get back together. Martha & Jon ARE Lily & Holden!
The other two items I anticipated were the final scene & line of the series. Of course the scene went to Bob & Kim. It was time to leave his office, and he didn't know how to say goodbye. She told him to say goodnight, and that's what he did. I didn't realize how perfect that is until later when I learned the first line of the series. Nancy said to her husband, "Good morning, dear." So, there's nothing better than 'goodnight'. There was a beautiful globe that Bob left behind on the desk. The final shot had a spotlight over the globe, and the globe was spinning. Aww...tearjerker! The whole episode was tear-jerking when you thought about never seeing these characters continuing their lives again. I think I'll miss everyone.
ATWT's finale gave hope for the future. I do not want this show to be gone. It's another tragic death in my soap family. The world has stopped turning. We've lost 1 more soap, and it feels like it should still be on the air. There were more stories to be told. This show did not seem like it was on its last leg. Why oh why is it gone forever? ATWT stood for family, romance, social issues, friendship, and community. All in all, it was a damn good soap opera. It didn't go out with a bang in its final year. It was never the most excellent soap, in my opinion, but it was never the worst. In my years of watching, it was just damn good soap. Most of the time. It had its fair share of bad stories, but it was consistent. ATWT was a lovely piece of my soap viewing. What it means to me is: a beautiful soap that I will forever miss. I may not know its rich history, but I got to know ATWT enough to love it very much.
9.18.2010
9.17.2010
8.19.2010
2010 Emmy Winners
Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series:
Drew Tyler Bell (Thomas, The Bold and the Beautiful)
Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series:
Julie Marie Berman (Lulu, General Hospital)
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series:
Billy Miller (Billy, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series:
Julie Pinson (Janet, As the World Turns)
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series:
Michael Park (Jack, As the World Turns)
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series:
Maura West (Carly, As the World Turns)
Outstanding Drama Series Directing Team:
General Hospital
Outstanding Drama Series Writing Team:
The Bold and the Beautiful
Outstanding Drama Series:
The Bold and the Beautiful
Drew Tyler Bell (Thomas, The Bold and the Beautiful)
Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series:
Julie Marie Berman (Lulu, General Hospital)
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series:
Billy Miller (Billy, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series:
Julie Pinson (Janet, As the World Turns)
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series:
Michael Park (Jack, As the World Turns)
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series:
Maura West (Carly, As the World Turns)
Outstanding Drama Series Directing Team:
General Hospital
Outstanding Drama Series Writing Team:
The Bold and the Beautiful
Outstanding Drama Series:
The Bold and the Beautiful
5.12.2010
2010 Daytime Emmy Nominations
This year's Emmys will be held in Las Vegas on June 27 on CBS, 9 PM I presume.
Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series:
Drew Tyler Bell (Thomas, The Bold and the Beautiful)
Dylan Patton (ex-Will, Days of our Lives)
Drew Garrett (ex-Michael, General Hospital)
Zack Conroy (James, Guiding Light)
Scott Clifton (ex-Schyler, One Life to Live)
Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series:
Marnie Schulenburg (Allison, As the World Turns)
Molly Burnett (Melanie, Days of our Lives)
Shelley Hennig (Stephanie, Days of our Lives)
Julie Marie Berman (Lulu, General Hospital)
Christel Khalil (Lily, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series:
Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake, All My Children)
Bradford Anderson (Spinelli, General Hospital)
Jonathan Jackson (Lucky, General Hospital)
Brian Kerwin (Charlie, One Life to Live)
Billy Miller (Billy, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series:
Julie Pinson (Janet, As the World Turns)
Arianne Zucker (Nicole, Days of our Lives)
Carolyn Hennesy (Diane, General Hospital)
Beth Chamberlin (Beth, Guiding Light)
Bree Williamson (Jessica, One Life to Live)
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series:
Jon Lindstrom (Craig, As the World Turns)
Michael Park (Jack, As the World Turns)
James Scott (EJ, Days of our Lives)
Peter Bergman (Jack, The Young and the Restless)
Doug Davidson (Paul, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series:
Bobbie Eakes (Krystal, All My Children)
Maura West (Carly, As the World Turns)
Sarah Brown (ex-Claudia, General Hospital)
Crystal Chappell (Olivia, Guiding Light)
Michelle Stafford (Phyllis, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Drama Series Directing Team:
All My Children
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
One Life to Live
Outstanding Drama Series Writing Team:
All My Children
As the World TUrns
The Bold and the Beautiful
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Drama Series:
All My Children
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series:
Drew Tyler Bell (Thomas, The Bold and the Beautiful)
Dylan Patton (ex-Will, Days of our Lives)
Drew Garrett (ex-Michael, General Hospital)
Zack Conroy (James, Guiding Light)
Scott Clifton (ex-Schyler, One Life to Live)
Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series:
Marnie Schulenburg (Allison, As the World Turns)
Molly Burnett (Melanie, Days of our Lives)
Shelley Hennig (Stephanie, Days of our Lives)
Julie Marie Berman (Lulu, General Hospital)
Christel Khalil (Lily, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series:
Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake, All My Children)
Bradford Anderson (Spinelli, General Hospital)
Jonathan Jackson (Lucky, General Hospital)
Brian Kerwin (Charlie, One Life to Live)
Billy Miller (Billy, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series:
Julie Pinson (Janet, As the World Turns)
Arianne Zucker (Nicole, Days of our Lives)
Carolyn Hennesy (Diane, General Hospital)
Beth Chamberlin (Beth, Guiding Light)
Bree Williamson (Jessica, One Life to Live)
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series:
Jon Lindstrom (Craig, As the World Turns)
Michael Park (Jack, As the World Turns)
James Scott (EJ, Days of our Lives)
Peter Bergman (Jack, The Young and the Restless)
Doug Davidson (Paul, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series:
Bobbie Eakes (Krystal, All My Children)
Maura West (Carly, As the World Turns)
Sarah Brown (ex-Claudia, General Hospital)
Crystal Chappell (Olivia, Guiding Light)
Michelle Stafford (Phyllis, The Young and the Restless)
Outstanding Drama Series Directing Team:
All My Children
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
One Life to Live
Outstanding Drama Series Writing Team:
All My Children
As the World TUrns
The Bold and the Beautiful
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Drama Series:
All My Children
The Bold and the Beautiful
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
2.20.2010
DAYS ~ A Baby & A Poisoning?
I began watching Days Of Our Lives the last week of September 2009. All because of Crystal Chappell (formerly GL's Olivia) returning as Carly Manning. I really loved her on GL, and I just had to follow her to DAYS. I was entering a brand new world.
I had seen Days Of Our Lives before, over the past ten years. I recall Shawn & Belle during Jason Cook and Kirsten Storms' reign, and I saw some episodes during the serial-killings-turned-stuck-on-an-island storyline. I watched John & Marlena's final week last January. I know some things from DAYS' history but not much. I did not grow up with exposure to DAYS, and I never had any interest in watching it on a daily basis. Yet via the Daytime Confidential podcast I knew pretty much everything that was happening, including the huge baby Sydney story.
I had anticipation for full-time DAYS. It's always exciting to watch and/or get into something new. Carly would be back October 2, so I decided to start watching a week before that in order to know everything leading up to her return, which really had nothing to do with the other stories. After a few short weeks of truly enjoying the show, it lost its "new" appeal. I continued enjoying Carly's story and the Sydney story until she was kidnapped again thanks to EJ. But overall, I was in new territory. I was a stranger for not being raised with this show and for hardly knowing its history. And it has felt that way for the past five months (roughly).
I still don't know a lot of familial and former romantic relations. I don't care about the older veteran characters. For instance, when Mickey died, it didn't hurt me and Maggie's grief had almost no affect on me. The Horton family Christmas didn't warm my heart the way it would if I saw many previous Horton Christmases. Though, I do love the personalized ornaments. I don't see chemistry between two beloved couples: Rafe & Sami and Bo & Hope. Actually, most couples don't have a spark. Thus, obviously, I still have a ton to learn, and it will take time to care about the major families and root for the popular couples.
An added difficulty is getting use to Crystal Chappell in another role completely different from GL's Olivia Spencer. I had to read up on Carly's history, and she is a real rivalry for Hope. Since this is a new role for me, I haven't been impressed. And that must be because of Carly and Olivia's differences. Chappell also has to be portraying Carly differently. Carly has cried multiple times over fear of Vivian and missing her daughter, Melanie. Not once did I feel the urge to cry along with her. This Hope/Bo/Carly triangle has been pretty good, but I don't know which pairing to root for. Thus, it is all a learning process with Carly.
February sweeps and this past Tuesday marked huge turning points for me.
In my opinion, the most boring couple on DAYS is Daniel and Chloe. They are, unfortunately, so horribly boring. It's as simple as that. But it was a little saddening to see him tell Chloe having a baby the regular, natural way is impossible. Then it seemed like their story was dropped for a bit for more prominent storylines - not saddening at all. I can't say I was very happy or thrilled when Chloe had a bunch of positive pregnancy tests and planned for a baby with Daniel. I did feel a little happiness when she was excited about getting a sonogram/ultrasound done. And after these months of watching, hearing that there's no baby was extremely sad. I think I wanted to cry, or I almost did cry. And what a breakthrough that was for me to get emotional over Daniel & Chloe drama. Besides being tear-jerking, it was surprising. How could there be no baby when Chloe tested positive? This was suppose to be a miracle baby, but he/she wasn't meant to be at all.
Something else that affected me was the enormous drama surrounding Melanie and Phillip's wedding. All along Vivian had a plan to hurt Carly by killing her daughter. Except, once she knew the daughter was Melanie, she had already bonded with her. But Vivian would let that stop her. So, with the wedding being on Valentine's, the storyline was leading up to that occasion. And we all knew it would be a huge deal and that Vivian's plan would be put in motion. I've recently realized that, for the first time , I had high expectations for something on this show. I anticipated the wedding as, little by little, we viewers were told what Vivian's plan was. I think I actually wanted Vivian's plan to work to some extent because I did not want Melanie marrying Phillip while she still had feelings for Nathan. Once I saw that a lovely poisoned comb would do the trick, I expected its effects to take place during the wedding. I expected Carly to be there and for Melanie to collapse as she said, "I do" (or something like that). With the slow buildup of that comb, I just did not expect the ceremony to go off without a hitch.
Thus, DAYS disappointed me for the very first time. However, I did enjoy the drama of what happened to Carly as she discovered Melanie was in danger. It was scary good seeing her locked up underground in a basement. But I'm glad she has a tough side. Getting Vivian there with her was something I didn't see coming, and having Hope arrive for the rescue instead of Bo was great. What disappointed me wasn't that Vivian's plan with the comb didn't work but that the comb was switched with another. There was all this buildup, and the combs were simply switched. It just came off as weak to me, and I was confused because Melanie still passed out on the bed. I guess she really was lightheaded. And the ceremony happened like I didn't want. I thought that was it. Now Phillip and Melanie would fly off into the sunset for their honeymoon.
Oh, but NO! Thank heavens... Vivian escaped thanks to her henchman, and Hope and Carly were knocked out. Vivian got back to finish Melanie off, and not-completely-knocked-out-nor-injured Carly had no choice but to leave Hope behind in order to save her daughter. And OF COURSE, she took Hope's gun. She would've been stupid not to. What happened on the Kiriakis mansion roof made up for the comb, and it was monumental. I assume Vivian's Plan B was to give Melanie a blow to the head and then throw her off the roof. Carly had excellent timing to save Melanie, but she shot that gun too damn fast. I know she's a doctor and not a cop, but what was she thinking? Of course, Vivian would use Melanie as a shield!
Carly shooting her own daughter was the turning point. Seeing Carly trying to save her and then being held back by Brady broke my heart. Carly being a complete wreck had me wanting to cry along with her. Step by step through Carly's story finally led me to this moment of feeling for her. Bravo to Chappell for those shocking, heart-tugging scenes. The icing on the cake was Carly blurting out loud that Melanie's her daughter to everyone who showed up after hearing the gunshot. I didn't see the truth coming out like that without Melanie even knowing yet. It didn't seem like everyone heard Carly, but Phillip certainly did. And you gotta love Vivian for re-stating it: "Didn't Carly just say that Melanie is her daughter?" Vivian is entertainment.
And now you should have noticed that I have yet to watch Wednesday through Friday. I wanted to get this entry written before seeing what occurs next in both the Carly/Melanie story and the Daniel/Chloe one. I'm sure there is plenty to look forward to and plenty that happened. This weekend I'll be catching up!
I had seen Days Of Our Lives before, over the past ten years. I recall Shawn & Belle during Jason Cook and Kirsten Storms' reign, and I saw some episodes during the serial-killings-turned-stuck-on-an-island storyline. I watched John & Marlena's final week last January. I know some things from DAYS' history but not much. I did not grow up with exposure to DAYS, and I never had any interest in watching it on a daily basis. Yet via the Daytime Confidential podcast I knew pretty much everything that was happening, including the huge baby Sydney story.
I had anticipation for full-time DAYS. It's always exciting to watch and/or get into something new. Carly would be back October 2, so I decided to start watching a week before that in order to know everything leading up to her return, which really had nothing to do with the other stories. After a few short weeks of truly enjoying the show, it lost its "new" appeal. I continued enjoying Carly's story and the Sydney story until she was kidnapped again thanks to EJ. But overall, I was in new territory. I was a stranger for not being raised with this show and for hardly knowing its history. And it has felt that way for the past five months (roughly).
I still don't know a lot of familial and former romantic relations. I don't care about the older veteran characters. For instance, when Mickey died, it didn't hurt me and Maggie's grief had almost no affect on me. The Horton family Christmas didn't warm my heart the way it would if I saw many previous Horton Christmases. Though, I do love the personalized ornaments. I don't see chemistry between two beloved couples: Rafe & Sami and Bo & Hope. Actually, most couples don't have a spark. Thus, obviously, I still have a ton to learn, and it will take time to care about the major families and root for the popular couples.
An added difficulty is getting use to Crystal Chappell in another role completely different from GL's Olivia Spencer. I had to read up on Carly's history, and she is a real rivalry for Hope. Since this is a new role for me, I haven't been impressed. And that must be because of Carly and Olivia's differences. Chappell also has to be portraying Carly differently. Carly has cried multiple times over fear of Vivian and missing her daughter, Melanie. Not once did I feel the urge to cry along with her. This Hope/Bo/Carly triangle has been pretty good, but I don't know which pairing to root for. Thus, it is all a learning process with Carly.
February sweeps and this past Tuesday marked huge turning points for me.
In my opinion, the most boring couple on DAYS is Daniel and Chloe. They are, unfortunately, so horribly boring. It's as simple as that. But it was a little saddening to see him tell Chloe having a baby the regular, natural way is impossible. Then it seemed like their story was dropped for a bit for more prominent storylines - not saddening at all. I can't say I was very happy or thrilled when Chloe had a bunch of positive pregnancy tests and planned for a baby with Daniel. I did feel a little happiness when she was excited about getting a sonogram/ultrasound done. And after these months of watching, hearing that there's no baby was extremely sad. I think I wanted to cry, or I almost did cry. And what a breakthrough that was for me to get emotional over Daniel & Chloe drama. Besides being tear-jerking, it was surprising. How could there be no baby when Chloe tested positive? This was suppose to be a miracle baby, but he/she wasn't meant to be at all.
Something else that affected me was the enormous drama surrounding Melanie and Phillip's wedding. All along Vivian had a plan to hurt Carly by killing her daughter. Except, once she knew the daughter was Melanie, she had already bonded with her. But Vivian would let that stop her. So, with the wedding being on Valentine's, the storyline was leading up to that occasion. And we all knew it would be a huge deal and that Vivian's plan would be put in motion. I've recently realized that, for the first time , I had high expectations for something on this show. I anticipated the wedding as, little by little, we viewers were told what Vivian's plan was. I think I actually wanted Vivian's plan to work to some extent because I did not want Melanie marrying Phillip while she still had feelings for Nathan. Once I saw that a lovely poisoned comb would do the trick, I expected its effects to take place during the wedding. I expected Carly to be there and for Melanie to collapse as she said, "I do" (or something like that). With the slow buildup of that comb, I just did not expect the ceremony to go off without a hitch.
Thus, DAYS disappointed me for the very first time. However, I did enjoy the drama of what happened to Carly as she discovered Melanie was in danger. It was scary good seeing her locked up underground in a basement. But I'm glad she has a tough side. Getting Vivian there with her was something I didn't see coming, and having Hope arrive for the rescue instead of Bo was great. What disappointed me wasn't that Vivian's plan with the comb didn't work but that the comb was switched with another. There was all this buildup, and the combs were simply switched. It just came off as weak to me, and I was confused because Melanie still passed out on the bed. I guess she really was lightheaded. And the ceremony happened like I didn't want. I thought that was it. Now Phillip and Melanie would fly off into the sunset for their honeymoon.
Oh, but NO! Thank heavens... Vivian escaped thanks to her henchman, and Hope and Carly were knocked out. Vivian got back to finish Melanie off, and not-completely-knocked-out-nor-injured Carly had no choice but to leave Hope behind in order to save her daughter. And OF COURSE, she took Hope's gun. She would've been stupid not to. What happened on the Kiriakis mansion roof made up for the comb, and it was monumental. I assume Vivian's Plan B was to give Melanie a blow to the head and then throw her off the roof. Carly had excellent timing to save Melanie, but she shot that gun too damn fast. I know she's a doctor and not a cop, but what was she thinking? Of course, Vivian would use Melanie as a shield!
Carly shooting her own daughter was the turning point. Seeing Carly trying to save her and then being held back by Brady broke my heart. Carly being a complete wreck had me wanting to cry along with her. Step by step through Carly's story finally led me to this moment of feeling for her. Bravo to Chappell for those shocking, heart-tugging scenes. The icing on the cake was Carly blurting out loud that Melanie's her daughter to everyone who showed up after hearing the gunshot. I didn't see the truth coming out like that without Melanie even knowing yet. It didn't seem like everyone heard Carly, but Phillip certainly did. And you gotta love Vivian for re-stating it: "Didn't Carly just say that Melanie is her daughter?" Vivian is entertainment.
And now you should have noticed that I have yet to watch Wednesday through Friday. I wanted to get this entry written before seeing what occurs next in both the Carly/Melanie story and the Daniel/Chloe one. I'm sure there is plenty to look forward to and plenty that happened. This weekend I'll be catching up!
11.03.2009
OLTL ~ Bo & Nora Nirvana
In July we saw them kiss for the first time in years. Three months later not only do they kiss again, they also admit they're in love with each other. And fans everywhere cry, cheer, and jump for joy.
Bo and Nora have been apart for ten years. They broke up over her sleeping with Sam Rappaport to give Bo a child. The child, Matthew, was Sam's but some years later turned out to be Bo's. Bo could never forgive Nora for her betrayal, even as they formed a friendship and co-parent bond.
Bo & Nora are my first memory of One Life To Live. They were the most fun-loving couple of the show, and it was heartbreaking to watch the stupid triangle with Sam. I always believed Matthew was Bo's, and I've continued to enjoy Bo & Nora's friendship and partnership (in & out of work). But there was still a spark between them, and I never truly gave up on them reuniting, especially since they share a son. Plus, who on Earth actually likes Nora and Clint? They are boring.
Now, finally the story is going fans' way. It's almost like a dream. After all these years, is this finally happening? It's also like an early Christmas gift. Bless you, One Life To Live Powers That Be.
Yes, the spark has been there for years, but Bo and Nora have really been dancing around each other for months. They've grown closer while dealing with Matthew's paralysis and him suing them. They almost kissed in a car at the high school on Matthew's first day back after his accident. Fate led them to kiss outside of the Buchanan Lodge in July, and it seemed like maybe Bo would admit his love for her. But he couldn't hurt his brother, and so, Nora married Clint. I cringed, feeling disappointed that the wedding went off without a hitch.
Bo and Nora have continued dealing with Matthew, and Clint has not been around much. In order to stop Matthew from having a high-risk surgery, they took him to London. Matthew's at a boarding school while they are at Kevin's compound. Being united on something like this without Clint has brought them closer than they've ever been.
In October 29th's episode it was still only Matthew's first or second day at the school. Bo and Nora worried about him and wanted to visit. Their visit didn't go very well. Matthew expressed his anger and not wanting them to be there. Back at Kevin's they vented and threw glasses against a wall. It felt good for both of them, and in that passion they kissed. The 29th ended and the 30th began with that scene. I enjoyed seeing it twice because that was some kissing - way better than the July kiss. There was much more passion, and it continued in the next scene. Kevin interrupted them without seeing them kissing and asked about the glass everywhere. Bo and Nora dodged a bullet there and got him out of the room (twice) in order to talk.
The rest of their scenes were beautifully written, real, and honest. Just brilliant!
Nora tries justifying the kiss, and Bo says they have to deal with everything that's been going on.
Bo: "Oh." Oh, what? We just pretend none of that ever happened?
Nora: Okay. Yeah. I mean, what else are we supposed to do?
Bo: Deal with it.
Nora: Deal with what?
Bo: With us.
[Glass crunches]
Bo: With us, red. It's time. We can't go on like this..
Nora: There's nothing to deal with.
Bo: No?
Nora: No. I'm married to your brother Clint.
Bo: I know that.
Nora: No. You don't know that. I love Clint. End of conversation.
But if she loves Clint, then why does she keep getting closer & closer to Bo? That is the point Bo makes.
And Bo called her "Red" again! Hallelujah! It surprised me because it's been so long since he's done that. He always called her "Red" when they were a couple. Hearing it again touched me, and I couldn't help but cry.
The next scene they hash through Nora marrying Clint, which "proves" that she loves Clint. Bo never stopped the wedding because of what Nora kept saying...
Nora: Then why didn't you just say something? Why didn't you stop the wedding?
Bo: Because you were marrying my brother and you kept telling me that you were in love with him.
Nora: I do love him.
Bo: Then why do we keep doing this?
The last scene said it all and made me cry again. Bo admitted he loves her, and those words are the most beautiful words I've heard on One Life To Live in a while.
Bo: Why do we keep doing this? Do you want to know what I think?
Nora: Oh, please. You seem to have all the answers. I'd love to know.
Bo: Oh, so you're just gonna make me say it, huh?
Nora: Say what?
Bo: Seriously, Nora, you don't know?
Nora: Know what?
Bo: That I still love you, damn it. I love you.
I've been waiting since July to hear that. It was obvious then that Bo still loved her, but he didn't say it. And now he has; it was wonderful. And that's how the October 30th show ended - the best Friday ending ever! And Monday, November 2nd, picked right up where Friday left off. Bo said he's IN LOVE with her! Let's have another Hallelujah!
Bo: I love you, and I'm in love with you.
Nora: I heard you.
Bo: Well, it sure feels better now that it's finally out.
Nora: Yeah? Ok.
Bo: I know you're married to Clint, and it would be tough if -- if he wasn't even my brother, but you know, it is what it is. I love you, Nora. And you know what? I've got a feeling that you love me, too.
That's a pretty good feeling! I think it's obvious she loves him back. After everything that has happened, he loves her. They hash out the Sam crap again. She has been carrying around guilt, and he has never forgiven her. He never could. By going through all this Matthew drama, he has grown up. By not forgiving & forgetting, it has cost him Nora. How real is that? I love how The Powers That Be know their history and keep returning to it.
Bo: What happened with Sam happened because you love me.
Nora: Do you know how many years I've waited to hear you say that?
Bo: Mm. Years and years and years.
Nora: Do you -- can you forgive me?
Bo: Of course. That's the reason I'm able to say any of this.
Another hallelujah and more tears! He FINALLY forgives her! I, like Nora, have been waiting for that to happen. It always hurt as more time passed and he still couldn't forgive. Now he has, and it was like a weight was lifted. Nothing but Clint is in Bo and Nora's way.
And now we have the best part of this entire thing - Nora's confession.
Bo: If you tell me that you don't feel the same, I will never ever bring this up again. So...tell me, red. You don't love me?
Nora: I can't say that. I do love you. You... I love you, too.
First, he called her "Red" again. WE GOT IT TWICE!
Second, she loves him too! OH MY GOD! I was bawling from that. It was pure joy hearing them both say "I love you" after ten long years of suffering & waiting. It was amazing! And it's about time. Bo & Nora are clearly on the path of being a couple again, and I could not be any happier. Monday's One Life To Live was the best episode in years, I swear. I can't remember the last time OLTL made me so happy.
Bo & Nora had David and Destiny to deal with for the remainder of the show, so they still have a lot to talk about. This is not over, and I cannot wait to see the next step/conversation. I feel like telling Clint myself that Bo and Nora love each other because it will still be a while before he knows. It's a soap for God's sake.
So, for now, I continue to revel in the scenes from Friday and Monday. Kudos to actors Robert S. Woods & Hillary B. Smith, executive producer Frank Valentini, and head writer Ron Carlivati. It is true Bo & Nora nirvana, and I'm thinking it's only a matter of time before we start seeing some dancing & hearing some oldies music.
Bo and Nora have been apart for ten years. They broke up over her sleeping with Sam Rappaport to give Bo a child. The child, Matthew, was Sam's but some years later turned out to be Bo's. Bo could never forgive Nora for her betrayal, even as they formed a friendship and co-parent bond.
Bo & Nora are my first memory of One Life To Live. They were the most fun-loving couple of the show, and it was heartbreaking to watch the stupid triangle with Sam. I always believed Matthew was Bo's, and I've continued to enjoy Bo & Nora's friendship and partnership (in & out of work). But there was still a spark between them, and I never truly gave up on them reuniting, especially since they share a son. Plus, who on Earth actually likes Nora and Clint? They are boring.
Now, finally the story is going fans' way. It's almost like a dream. After all these years, is this finally happening? It's also like an early Christmas gift. Bless you, One Life To Live Powers That Be.
Yes, the spark has been there for years, but Bo and Nora have really been dancing around each other for months. They've grown closer while dealing with Matthew's paralysis and him suing them. They almost kissed in a car at the high school on Matthew's first day back after his accident. Fate led them to kiss outside of the Buchanan Lodge in July, and it seemed like maybe Bo would admit his love for her. But he couldn't hurt his brother, and so, Nora married Clint. I cringed, feeling disappointed that the wedding went off without a hitch.
Bo and Nora have continued dealing with Matthew, and Clint has not been around much. In order to stop Matthew from having a high-risk surgery, they took him to London. Matthew's at a boarding school while they are at Kevin's compound. Being united on something like this without Clint has brought them closer than they've ever been.
In October 29th's episode it was still only Matthew's first or second day at the school. Bo and Nora worried about him and wanted to visit. Their visit didn't go very well. Matthew expressed his anger and not wanting them to be there. Back at Kevin's they vented and threw glasses against a wall. It felt good for both of them, and in that passion they kissed. The 29th ended and the 30th began with that scene. I enjoyed seeing it twice because that was some kissing - way better than the July kiss. There was much more passion, and it continued in the next scene. Kevin interrupted them without seeing them kissing and asked about the glass everywhere. Bo and Nora dodged a bullet there and got him out of the room (twice) in order to talk.
The rest of their scenes were beautifully written, real, and honest. Just brilliant!
Nora tries justifying the kiss, and Bo says they have to deal with everything that's been going on.
Bo: "Oh." Oh, what? We just pretend none of that ever happened?
Nora: Okay. Yeah. I mean, what else are we supposed to do?
Bo: Deal with it.
Nora: Deal with what?
Bo: With us.
[Glass crunches]
Bo: With us, red. It's time. We can't go on like this..
Nora: There's nothing to deal with.
Bo: No?
Nora: No. I'm married to your brother Clint.
Bo: I know that.
Nora: No. You don't know that. I love Clint. End of conversation.
But if she loves Clint, then why does she keep getting closer & closer to Bo? That is the point Bo makes.
And Bo called her "Red" again! Hallelujah! It surprised me because it's been so long since he's done that. He always called her "Red" when they were a couple. Hearing it again touched me, and I couldn't help but cry.
The next scene they hash through Nora marrying Clint, which "proves" that she loves Clint. Bo never stopped the wedding because of what Nora kept saying...
Nora: Then why didn't you just say something? Why didn't you stop the wedding?
Bo: Because you were marrying my brother and you kept telling me that you were in love with him.
Nora: I do love him.
Bo: Then why do we keep doing this?
The last scene said it all and made me cry again. Bo admitted he loves her, and those words are the most beautiful words I've heard on One Life To Live in a while.
Bo: Why do we keep doing this? Do you want to know what I think?
Nora: Oh, please. You seem to have all the answers. I'd love to know.
Bo: Oh, so you're just gonna make me say it, huh?
Nora: Say what?
Bo: Seriously, Nora, you don't know?
Nora: Know what?
Bo: That I still love you, damn it. I love you.
I've been waiting since July to hear that. It was obvious then that Bo still loved her, but he didn't say it. And now he has; it was wonderful. And that's how the October 30th show ended - the best Friday ending ever! And Monday, November 2nd, picked right up where Friday left off. Bo said he's IN LOVE with her! Let's have another Hallelujah!
Bo: I love you, and I'm in love with you.
Nora: I heard you.
Bo: Well, it sure feels better now that it's finally out.
Nora: Yeah? Ok.
Bo: I know you're married to Clint, and it would be tough if -- if he wasn't even my brother, but you know, it is what it is. I love you, Nora. And you know what? I've got a feeling that you love me, too.
That's a pretty good feeling! I think it's obvious she loves him back. After everything that has happened, he loves her. They hash out the Sam crap again. She has been carrying around guilt, and he has never forgiven her. He never could. By going through all this Matthew drama, he has grown up. By not forgiving & forgetting, it has cost him Nora. How real is that? I love how The Powers That Be know their history and keep returning to it.
Bo: What happened with Sam happened because you love me.
Nora: Do you know how many years I've waited to hear you say that?
Bo: Mm. Years and years and years.
Nora: Do you -- can you forgive me?
Bo: Of course. That's the reason I'm able to say any of this.
Another hallelujah and more tears! He FINALLY forgives her! I, like Nora, have been waiting for that to happen. It always hurt as more time passed and he still couldn't forgive. Now he has, and it was like a weight was lifted. Nothing but Clint is in Bo and Nora's way.
And now we have the best part of this entire thing - Nora's confession.
Bo: If you tell me that you don't feel the same, I will never ever bring this up again. So...tell me, red. You don't love me?
Nora: I can't say that. I do love you. You... I love you, too.
First, he called her "Red" again. WE GOT IT TWICE!
Second, she loves him too! OH MY GOD! I was bawling from that. It was pure joy hearing them both say "I love you" after ten long years of suffering & waiting. It was amazing! And it's about time. Bo & Nora are clearly on the path of being a couple again, and I could not be any happier. Monday's One Life To Live was the best episode in years, I swear. I can't remember the last time OLTL made me so happy.
Bo & Nora had David and Destiny to deal with for the remainder of the show, so they still have a lot to talk about. This is not over, and I cannot wait to see the next step/conversation. I feel like telling Clint myself that Bo and Nora love each other because it will still be a while before he knows. It's a soap for God's sake.
So, for now, I continue to revel in the scenes from Friday and Monday. Kudos to actors Robert S. Woods & Hillary B. Smith, executive producer Frank Valentini, and head writer Ron Carlivati. It is true Bo & Nora nirvana, and I'm thinking it's only a matter of time before we start seeing some dancing & hearing some oldies music.
9.18.2009
9/18 ~ The Day The LIGHT Went Out
I also posted this on the Daytime Confidential website in response to their entry - Live Blogging: Guiding Light's Finale Episode. So, it's on informal, rambling side.
It's like saying goodbye to a dear friend or companion. Not quite family for me. I saw GL through its last decade and liked Harley the most. Watching through it's final months was weird. It never felt like it was ending soon. And I just basked in the joy of seeing Bill & Lizzie, Olivia & Natalia, and Shayne & Dinah in their stories. I was enjoying a lot on the show, except for Mallet & Marina and Reva & Jeffrey. Even when there was 1 month to go, it felt like farewell was a long way off. And even during this last week I wasn't yet moved to tears. I was just like, "Oh, this is happening. These two are getting married. And Alan's dying." No real emotion yet. Just seeing how it all wraps up. I was especially wondering how the Jeffrey story would wrap. What was hard was counting down the days. I had a little bit of tears after each show, thinking "There's 3 episodes left", then "2 episodes left". Today...I was fully prepared to be sad. And I was. I cried through the show. But I was left with a feeling of happiness as well as loss.
Everything was pretty quick. A lot was jammed in these last two episodes since we had to see how things would end for every character. A lot of happiness, as it should be. And everyone having babies, LOL! Of course Shayne & Marina would be together. I liked that. I'm surprised Mallet & Dinah was shown, but YES, they are back together! And Ricky & Mindy and Frank & Blake - love both! Lots of love going around! Wish we had more Otalia lovin - at least one simple, sweet kiss. I loved the Josh & Reva parts of all this because with them I had no clue what was going to happen. I loved how time moved up a year, and Reva met Josh at the lighthouse with Colin. It all goes back to the lighthouse. And Josh & Reva always. I was crying through the whole ending segment as Michelle Branch's "Together" played. I had been waiting 2+ years for Josh & Reva to get back together, and it happens in the finale. Makes it more special and tear-jerking. I feel bad for the Reva/Jeffrey fans, but I assume Jeffrey died after all. Maybe he and Edmund killed each other. Reva belongs with her Joshua...always. So, I'm happy with the finale. It'll really hit next week that this wonderful show is gone. I'll turn the TV on, and it won't be there. *sigh*
Also, have to give a shout out to my girl Harley. I wish she could have returned for this, but of course that couldn't happen since Beth Ehlers is at ABC. Harley could have gotten a mention when Daisy went off to college - like "Harley would be so proud of you." Frank or Buzz could have said that. Or Daisy could have talked to her on the phone. If Beth never left and Harley was a part of all this, I would have been crying more. I'd be sadder. She could have visited Gus's grave, and the GusH pairing could have been wrapped up in some way. Just my wishful thinking, but really, GL's ending (and great 2009 storytelling) has made up for frustrations I've had with the powers that be. We will never forget this legendary soap opera. It'll live on forever and always through us, the fans.
It's like saying goodbye to a dear friend or companion. Not quite family for me. I saw GL through its last decade and liked Harley the most. Watching through it's final months was weird. It never felt like it was ending soon. And I just basked in the joy of seeing Bill & Lizzie, Olivia & Natalia, and Shayne & Dinah in their stories. I was enjoying a lot on the show, except for Mallet & Marina and Reva & Jeffrey. Even when there was 1 month to go, it felt like farewell was a long way off. And even during this last week I wasn't yet moved to tears. I was just like, "Oh, this is happening. These two are getting married. And Alan's dying." No real emotion yet. Just seeing how it all wraps up. I was especially wondering how the Jeffrey story would wrap. What was hard was counting down the days. I had a little bit of tears after each show, thinking "There's 3 episodes left", then "2 episodes left". Today...I was fully prepared to be sad. And I was. I cried through the show. But I was left with a feeling of happiness as well as loss.
Everything was pretty quick. A lot was jammed in these last two episodes since we had to see how things would end for every character. A lot of happiness, as it should be. And everyone having babies, LOL! Of course Shayne & Marina would be together. I liked that. I'm surprised Mallet & Dinah was shown, but YES, they are back together! And Ricky & Mindy and Frank & Blake - love both! Lots of love going around! Wish we had more Otalia lovin - at least one simple, sweet kiss. I loved the Josh & Reva parts of all this because with them I had no clue what was going to happen. I loved how time moved up a year, and Reva met Josh at the lighthouse with Colin. It all goes back to the lighthouse. And Josh & Reva always. I was crying through the whole ending segment as Michelle Branch's "Together" played. I had been waiting 2+ years for Josh & Reva to get back together, and it happens in the finale. Makes it more special and tear-jerking. I feel bad for the Reva/Jeffrey fans, but I assume Jeffrey died after all. Maybe he and Edmund killed each other. Reva belongs with her Joshua...always. So, I'm happy with the finale. It'll really hit next week that this wonderful show is gone. I'll turn the TV on, and it won't be there. *sigh*
Also, have to give a shout out to my girl Harley. I wish she could have returned for this, but of course that couldn't happen since Beth Ehlers is at ABC. Harley could have gotten a mention when Daisy went off to college - like "Harley would be so proud of you." Frank or Buzz could have said that. Or Daisy could have talked to her on the phone. If Beth never left and Harley was a part of all this, I would have been crying more. I'd be sadder. She could have visited Gus's grave, and the GusH pairing could have been wrapped up in some way. Just my wishful thinking, but really, GL's ending (and great 2009 storytelling) has made up for frustrations I've had with the powers that be. We will never forget this legendary soap opera. It'll live on forever and always through us, the fans.
9.02.2009
Guiding Light's Tribute In Entirety
Michael Fairman (www.michaelfairmansoaps.com) has released Guiding Light's full tribute/montage for the fans. This was originally created for the Daytime Emmys but due to time constraints was cut down. Thank you, Michael! Now, if only they didn't cut to commercial and some of the actors could have spoken. Wish we could see a fuller version of the actors on stage & thanking the loyal viewers. :)
Credit goes to Daytime Confidential for brining this to many fans' attention and to YouTube user soapinterviews (http://www.youtube.com/user/soapinterviews)
Credit goes to Daytime Confidential for brining this to many fans' attention and to YouTube user soapinterviews (http://www.youtube.com/user/soapinterviews)
8.31.2009
One Life To Live's Acting Win
Here's my highlight of the night: Susan Haskell's (Marty) win! Her speech is very sweet and endearing. She adorably mentions her husband, Thorsten Kaye (Zach, AMC) and her children. This is her first win, and I can't remember the last time an OLTL actor won for anything. It has been a while.
Credit goes to tkpoetry: http://www.youtube.com/user/tkpoetry
Credit goes to tkpoetry: http://www.youtube.com/user/tkpoetry
Guiding Light's Farewell Tribute
It could have been WAY better and longer!! GRR! The longest-running show got gipped. It was very moving until it was cut, and there were too many clips with the new production model. A lot of great moments, characters, & couples were not included in the montage. And as great as it was seeing the whole cast on stage, there could have been former cast members up there too. Some of the actors could have spoken and thanked all the viewers.
But it is what it is. Just be grateful that there was a tribute.
On the bright side, it was touching. Betty White did a great job mixing humor with sorrow. I'm glad they had a real fan speak. The montage was very well done. There was plenty shown as well as all the wonderful logos. A great song was used, but I can't say what it was. The entire cast looked radiant and appreciative of the tribute & the fans. Everyone stood for television's longest running show. At home in my room I stood too and was moved to tears.
Credit goes to rockermom58 (via YouTube) for this clip: http://www.youtube.com/user/rockermom58
And credit goes to Daytime Confidential for the pictures: http://www.daytimeconfidential.com/2009/08/30/daytime-emmy-salutes-guiding-light
But it is what it is. Just be grateful that there was a tribute.
On the bright side, it was touching. Betty White did a great job mixing humor with sorrow. I'm glad they had a real fan speak. The montage was very well done. There was plenty shown as well as all the wonderful logos. A great song was used, but I can't say what it was. The entire cast looked radiant and appreciative of the tribute & the fans. Everyone stood for television's longest running show. At home in my room I stood too and was moved to tears.
Credit goes to rockermom58 (via YouTube) for this clip: http://www.youtube.com/user/rockermom58
And credit goes to Daytime Confidential for the pictures: http://www.daytimeconfidential.com/2009/08/30/daytime-emmy-salutes-guiding-light
36th Annual Daytime Emmy Winners
Here are the grand winners and my thoughts.
Younger Actress: GH's Julie Marie Berman (Lulu)
I was rooting for GH's Kirsten Storms, but I am very happy that Julie won. She completely deserves it. She is a stunning actress, and GH did the best job casting her as Lulu Spencer. Julie also looked so beautiful and classy as she nervously accepted her award. Adorable!
Younger Actor: DAYS' Darin Brooks (Max)
Not who I wanted to win, but this was a tricky category. I didn't really have a favorite. I'm not unhappy with Darin winning because how often does anyone at DAYS win anything? So, congrats to him. He's lucky.
Supporting Actress: DAYS' Tamara Braun (Ava)
This surprised me. Tamara was only on for SIX MONTHS. She was on GH (as Carly) longer and never won an Emmy. But Tamara winning makes me happy to some extent because I love her. She's brilliant. But it makes me wish I saw her as Ava so I know why she deserved to win. Too bad AMC's Alicia Minshew didn't win. She deserves an Emmy one of these years.
Supporting Actor: A tie! AMC's Vincent Irizarry (David) and GL's Jeff Branson (Shayne)
Ties are usually pretty rare, and this one was the first category presented. Vincent is an amazing actor. Even though I don't like his character, I still say he deserves every Emmy he wins. And I was rooting for Jeff. I'm glad that he won for GL because we've truly been able to see how talented he is. When he was on AMC as Jonathan, he didn't get the best material.
Lead Actress: OLTL's Susan Haskell (Marty)
YAY!!!! My pick of the night won! I was so excited that I was jumping up & down. She totally deserves this win. She won for the fallout of Todd raping Marty again (more emotionally than physically). She was brilliant when Marty learned the truth and discovered he lied about her entire life. Marty fought hard against Todd, and Susan got an Emmy for it. Wonderful! And her speech was sweet.
Lead Actor: Y&R's Christian LeBlanc (Michael)
Of course he wins again. I'm the least happiest about his win. It didn't excite me. This was another tricky category, though. I wasn't sure who should win.
Writing: General Hospital
I am appalled at this! I was angry at this because GH does not have the best writing. Mobsters are heros, the Quartermaines are hardly shown, Jason and Sam are back together, and there's almost constant violence. Some of the dialogue is stuff we hear more than once. How could GH win over OLTL? The episodes submitted must have been superb.
Directing: One Life To Live
Yay, OLTL won! It won over AMC's huge CGI tornado event. Wow! I don't know what episodes OLTL submitted, but I'm sure they were brilliant. I've been very happy with OLTL's directing. OLTL looks the way a soap should. Nothing fancy or on location most of the time.
Drama Series: The Bold And The Beautiful
Not what I was rooting for, but good for them. I believe they said it was B&B's first win. Thus, I'm extremely happy for B&B's cast, crew, and executives. But how could they not get to speak? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! That is so unheard of! Shame on CW and the people running the show. That's the worst part of the night, in my opinion.
Favorite Parts: OLTL's Susan Haskell winning made my night. As did GL's Jeff Branson's win. The opening of the show was very amusing - Vanessa Williams' in all these daytime scenes as she's singing. I loved seeing GL's Olivia & Natalia a part of that. The little parts of Elmo and Gordon trying to get in past Oscar were funny, and the Lifetime Achievement to Sesame Street was fun. AMC's, DAYS', and B&B's clips for Outstanding Drama Series were captivating. I always love the drama series clips, especially when they include great music. GL's tribute was very moving. I was loving it until they cut it off. I enjoyed the fashion segment because Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake, AMC; ex-Gus, GL) was a part of it. He looked so hot. He & Chrishell Stause (Amanda, AMC) pulled off the James Bond look perfectly. And B&B won Outstanding Drama Series for the 1st time. How fresh!
Bad Parts: The worst was no one from B&B being able to speak after B&B won Outstanding Drama Series. Two performances completely not needed were Vanessa Williams' second musical number and the special fashion segment. The Foof For Children charity segment was moving, but it went too long. That probably wasn't needed either. There wasn't a montage for the people who passed away. There weren't clips for all the acting categories; there is never enough time. Many people were not present to accept awards for Morning Show, Talk Show Host, etc. The Lifetime Achievement Award for Sesame Street was a bit too long. General Hospital won for Outstanding Writing. And finally, Guiding Light's special farewell tribute could have been longer and was cut off without so much as a warning.
Younger Actress: GH's Julie Marie Berman (Lulu)
I was rooting for GH's Kirsten Storms, but I am very happy that Julie won. She completely deserves it. She is a stunning actress, and GH did the best job casting her as Lulu Spencer. Julie also looked so beautiful and classy as she nervously accepted her award. Adorable!
Younger Actor: DAYS' Darin Brooks (Max)
Not who I wanted to win, but this was a tricky category. I didn't really have a favorite. I'm not unhappy with Darin winning because how often does anyone at DAYS win anything? So, congrats to him. He's lucky.
Supporting Actress: DAYS' Tamara Braun (Ava)
This surprised me. Tamara was only on for SIX MONTHS. She was on GH (as Carly) longer and never won an Emmy. But Tamara winning makes me happy to some extent because I love her. She's brilliant. But it makes me wish I saw her as Ava so I know why she deserved to win. Too bad AMC's Alicia Minshew didn't win. She deserves an Emmy one of these years.
Supporting Actor: A tie! AMC's Vincent Irizarry (David) and GL's Jeff Branson (Shayne)
Ties are usually pretty rare, and this one was the first category presented. Vincent is an amazing actor. Even though I don't like his character, I still say he deserves every Emmy he wins. And I was rooting for Jeff. I'm glad that he won for GL because we've truly been able to see how talented he is. When he was on AMC as Jonathan, he didn't get the best material.
Lead Actress: OLTL's Susan Haskell (Marty)
YAY!!!! My pick of the night won! I was so excited that I was jumping up & down. She totally deserves this win. She won for the fallout of Todd raping Marty again (more emotionally than physically). She was brilliant when Marty learned the truth and discovered he lied about her entire life. Marty fought hard against Todd, and Susan got an Emmy for it. Wonderful! And her speech was sweet.
Lead Actor: Y&R's Christian LeBlanc (Michael)
Of course he wins again. I'm the least happiest about his win. It didn't excite me. This was another tricky category, though. I wasn't sure who should win.
Writing: General Hospital
I am appalled at this! I was angry at this because GH does not have the best writing. Mobsters are heros, the Quartermaines are hardly shown, Jason and Sam are back together, and there's almost constant violence. Some of the dialogue is stuff we hear more than once. How could GH win over OLTL? The episodes submitted must have been superb.
Directing: One Life To Live
Yay, OLTL won! It won over AMC's huge CGI tornado event. Wow! I don't know what episodes OLTL submitted, but I'm sure they were brilliant. I've been very happy with OLTL's directing. OLTL looks the way a soap should. Nothing fancy or on location most of the time.
Drama Series: The Bold And The Beautiful
Not what I was rooting for, but good for them. I believe they said it was B&B's first win. Thus, I'm extremely happy for B&B's cast, crew, and executives. But how could they not get to speak? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! That is so unheard of! Shame on CW and the people running the show. That's the worst part of the night, in my opinion.
Favorite Parts: OLTL's Susan Haskell winning made my night. As did GL's Jeff Branson's win. The opening of the show was very amusing - Vanessa Williams' in all these daytime scenes as she's singing. I loved seeing GL's Olivia & Natalia a part of that. The little parts of Elmo and Gordon trying to get in past Oscar were funny, and the Lifetime Achievement to Sesame Street was fun. AMC's, DAYS', and B&B's clips for Outstanding Drama Series were captivating. I always love the drama series clips, especially when they include great music. GL's tribute was very moving. I was loving it until they cut it off. I enjoyed the fashion segment because Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake, AMC; ex-Gus, GL) was a part of it. He looked so hot. He & Chrishell Stause (Amanda, AMC) pulled off the James Bond look perfectly. And B&B won Outstanding Drama Series for the 1st time. How fresh!
Bad Parts: The worst was no one from B&B being able to speak after B&B won Outstanding Drama Series. Two performances completely not needed were Vanessa Williams' second musical number and the special fashion segment. The Foof For Children charity segment was moving, but it went too long. That probably wasn't needed either. There wasn't a montage for the people who passed away. There weren't clips for all the acting categories; there is never enough time. Many people were not present to accept awards for Morning Show, Talk Show Host, etc. The Lifetime Achievement Award for Sesame Street was a bit too long. General Hospital won for Outstanding Writing. And finally, Guiding Light's special farewell tribute could have been longer and was cut off without so much as a warning.
8.28.2009
My 2009 Emmy List
Daytime Emmys this Sunday at 8 PM EST on The CW with an hour-long red carpet show airing at 7.
Here are my Emmy picks!! These are who I'm rooting for.
Outstanding Younger Actress: GH's Kirsten Storms, but I wouldn't be upset if GH's Julie Marie Berman won.
Outstanding Younger Actor: AMC's Cornelius Smith Jr.
Outstanding Supporting Actress: AMC's Alicia Minshew, but I'd enjoy seeing DAYS' Tamara Braun win.
Outstanding Supporting Actor: Either ATWT's Van Hansis or GL's Jeff Branson
Outstanding Lead Actress: OLTL's Susan Haskell, but it'd also be great to see AMC's Debbi Morgan or ATWT's Maura West win.
Outstanding Lead Actor: GL's Daniel Cosgrove. DAYS' Peter Reckell winning would be amazing since DAYS doesn't usually get Emmy recognition.
Outstanding Writing: One Life To Live
Outstanding Directing: One Life To Live
Outstanding Drama Series: I'm seriously leaning towards Days Of Our Lives since I've never seen it win an Emmy. AMC and B&B don't deserve to win, in my opinion.
Here are my Emmy picks!! These are who I'm rooting for.
Outstanding Younger Actress: GH's Kirsten Storms, but I wouldn't be upset if GH's Julie Marie Berman won.
Outstanding Younger Actor: AMC's Cornelius Smith Jr.
Outstanding Supporting Actress: AMC's Alicia Minshew, but I'd enjoy seeing DAYS' Tamara Braun win.
Outstanding Supporting Actor: Either ATWT's Van Hansis or GL's Jeff Branson
Outstanding Lead Actress: OLTL's Susan Haskell, but it'd also be great to see AMC's Debbi Morgan or ATWT's Maura West win.
Outstanding Lead Actor: GL's Daniel Cosgrove. DAYS' Peter Reckell winning would be amazing since DAYS doesn't usually get Emmy recognition.
Outstanding Writing: One Life To Live
Outstanding Directing: One Life To Live
Outstanding Drama Series: I'm seriously leaning towards Days Of Our Lives since I've never seen it win an Emmy. AMC and B&B don't deserve to win, in my opinion.
7.28.2009
OLTL 7/28 ~ My Favorite Couple...
BO AND NORA KISSED TODAY!!!!!! FINALLY!
AFTER 10 OR 11 LONG YEARS, THEY ARE MAKING THEIR WAY BACK TOGETHER!!!!! US FANS ARE SCREAMING AND POSTING IT EVERYWHERE! WE LOVE BO & NORA, AND WE ALWAYS KNEW THERE WAS SOMETHING STILL BETWEEN THEM!
THANK YOU, OLTL WRITERS! THE KISS WAS MAGICAL AND BEAUTIFUL! THEIR LOVE IS STILL ALIVE!
AFTER 10 OR 11 LONG YEARS, THEY ARE MAKING THEIR WAY BACK TOGETHER!!!!! US FANS ARE SCREAMING AND POSTING IT EVERYWHERE! WE LOVE BO & NORA, AND WE ALWAYS KNEW THERE WAS SOMETHING STILL BETWEEN THEM!
THANK YOU, OLTL WRITERS! THE KISS WAS MAGICAL AND BEAUTIFUL! THEIR LOVE IS STILL ALIVE!
6.26.2009
OLTL ~ Farewell To Marcie Walsh
Last week we One Life To Live fans bid goodbye to two characters: Marcie & Michael McBain. The actors, Kathy Brier & Chris Stack, were let go from the show a couple months ago. The characters moved to Seattle, WA for a fresh start. First, they had decided that "their" baby, Hope, rightfully belonged with her teenaged parents, Starr & Cole. And out of the blue Michael told Marcie about his job offer from Seattle Grace Hospital. Just like that moving sounded like a pretty good idea. Michael said goodbye to his brother, John, while Marcie said good bye to friend Gigi. They did not leave without a happy ending for the fans: they found out that Marcie's pregnant. They had been trying different ways to have a baby, and now they finally will. At this point it doesn't matter if it's a girl or boy. Michael & Marcie will be wonderful parents.
While it was two characters who left, Marcie was the more beloved one. Michael only became prominent because of her (and John, I suppose) and was cared about more when portrayed by Nathaniel Marston. Marcie has been around since 2002, her maiden name being Walsh. She was only suppose to be on for three episodes. For a while she was a recurring character, her sole purpose being Jen Rappaport's best friend. Her role expanded, and viewers came to love her. She was real and down-to-earth. What made her so appealing was her size. She was heavy like so many women are in real life. Usually, the soap operas are full of super-thin women. It was wonderfully refreshing to have a strong female character with a real weight.
Marcie reached the height of her popularity when paired with Al Holden (also portrayed by Nathaniel Marston). They were adorable, and I probably saw their entire relationship. But so much is fuzzy because I got hooked on them towards the end of their short romance. Both attending Llanview University, Marcie was Al's tutor. They became friends, and their biggest hurdle was Al's drug addiction. She staged an intervention by herself and helped him through detoxification. Then they were free to fall in love. It was such a pure, sweet love between them. They took everything step-by-step since Marcie was afraid of making love with him. She didn't want to disappoint him, and she was self-conscious of her weight. Al was her hero through her weight issues, and he supported her stance on world peace. Classmates believed she wasn't supporting or caring about the troops fighting for their country. They treated her badly, and I'm sure thin girls saw her as easy to pick on because of her weight. Girls made her sing by a dumpster as they threw trash at her. Another night she was kidnapped, knocked out, and tossed into a dumpster. Al found her and spent the night by her side in her dorm room. College life was not easy for Marcie Walsh, but nothing could keep her down for long. She only grew stronger from those horrible experiences.
The most unique aspect of Al & Marcie was their love for music. It was such a prominent part of their lives, and it really added to their romance. Al secretly took a job as a radio host. He called himself "The Voice Of The Night", sharing words of wisdom and playing meaningful songs. Marcie got sucked into every word he said, and at some point she discovered who "the voice" was. I think that was a big factor in her falling for him. Al burned Marcie a CD, called Marcie's Mix, the very night they said their first "I love you"s. One special song on it was "This Year's Love" by David Gray. They sat together on the floor, holding each other while listening to it & talking. More songs used for them were: "Take Me Away" by Lifehouse, "Take A Little Piece Of My Heart" by Janis Joplin (sung by Marcie), and "Something Right" by Julia Fordham.
That dumpster incident came with consequences. Marcie passed along an infection to Al, and he became so ill that he needed a liver transplant. His mom donated part of hers, but it wasn't enough. Al's liver was too damaged, also in part from his drug use. Al, the love of Marcie's life, died. It was a tragedy for her and his parents - legendary characters Grabrielle Medina and Max Holden. It was also tragedy for the fans; Al & Marcie's love story had only just begun. Music continued to be used for this precious couple. Marcie played "This Year's Love" on the radio in memory of him as a montage of their greatest moments were shown. Max and Gabrielle were also shown crying, and Marcie sang along through her tears. Marcie sang "Iris" by the Goo Goo Dolls during Al's funeral; it was his favorite song. And "The Scientist" by Coldplay played as Gabrielle and Marcie comforted & held each other. I think they were in Al's dorm room, going through his belongings. Music expresses love & loss so beautifully, and it helps to have those songs to remember Marcie & Al by. It connects us to them.
It was so easy to feel Marcie's pain. She was sad for a good couple of months. Kathy Brier portrayed her grief brilliantly. But Marcie wouldn't be heartbroken forever. Death cannot stop true love. Like magic, Al got a second chance with Marcie, with the help of his former step-mom Luna Moody. I think first he could see & hear Marcie and everything but no one could see/hear him. Then his soul was put into Michael McBain (also Nathaniel Marston), a bitter doctor leading a lonely life. Every time Al's soul was in him, it's like he was Al. But no one knew it. Al's mission was to get Marcie to see that it was Al inside Michael by the end of Valentine's Day. He tried & tried, but Michael made some mistakes without Al's soul. And Marcie was still grieving.
On Valentine's night "Michael" had Marcie's favorite band, Simply Red, play at Capricorn. They played "Sunrise" and "You Make Me Feel Brand New". The latter is Marcie's favorite, and she danced to it with "Michael". Afterwards, Al did just about everything he could, and he finally succeeded in getting Marcie to see it was him. She stared into his eyes to Michael's soul, and for one episode we had Al & Marcie back together. It couldn't stay that way. Once time was up, they both forgot what had just happened, but Al's soul was forever inside of Michael. And the love story of Michael & Marcie began.
My memory of Michael & Marcie before their wedding is fuzzy. I know I saw everything that happened to them, but a lot is vague. I know they had their ups and downs. They broke up and got back together - that typical soap couple thing. Marcie began writing a crime novel and did some investigating on her own. She even sort of shadowed the police to understand their job better. She proved to be a talented writer. Her book, The Killing Club, was brought to life, and it was a good read. It centered on one character solving a series of murders that related to something in her past. What broke Marcie & Michael up was their strong focus on their respective careers. The killings began occurring for real, and there was a big serial killer storyline that Marcie was, of course, involved in. But I don't remember too much of that, and Marcie wasn't injured.
On another Valentine's Day (probably 2006) Michael planned to propose, and Marcie had no clue. They were at Ultra Violet to see Lifehouse perform. Again, more music. During the song "You And Me" Michael had the television screens set up to say, "Will you marry me?" Marcie was shocked. They discussed this huge decision to get married, and in the end Marcie said, "Yes." They were blissfully happy, and they wed in early May. Despite a looming tornado, the wedding went off without a hitch. It was beautiful, and the reception was like a real wedding, for the most part. What sets it a part from any other is that Marcie sang to Michael: an original song, "When It's Real". It appeared on Kathy Brier's sole album, Heartbreaker. It's suits them so well. I don't think Michael & Marcie had a honeymoon. Maybe they did, and we didn't see it.
From the tornado rubble was a baby boy. The disaster made him an orphan, and Marcie & Michael found & took care of him. They fell so in love with the baby, and Marcie realized she wanted to be a mother more than anything. They learned at some point that they couldn't have children the natural way (or so they thought). They fought to adopt the baby and named him Tommy. They were truly Tommy's parents, but it later was revealed that Tommy was biologically Todd's son with Margaret Cochran. Michael worked with Rex Balsom & Adrianna Cramer to keep it a secret. Secrets don't stay hidden for long. Once the truth was out, there was a custody battle. Todd was awarded custody, but Marcie wouldn't have it. She went on the run with Tommy, leaving Michael behind because he wasn't as determined as she was & she was still angry with him for keeping the secret.
We saw what a protective mama bear Marcie really is. She knew how dangerous Todd is and could not let him raise Tommy. She put her life on the line to protect and raise Tommy. And she truly is a wonderful mom. I was on her side through this whole thing. She and Michael would have given Tommy a better life than Todd. They deserved him more than Todd. Marcie hid at her brother's place, in a drag club, and finally ended up at The Bonjoir Cafe in Paris, TX - where Viki Lord was also hiding & living a new life. Todd was always on her tail, but she managed to hide in Texas for a while as Sally Ann, a waitress. She avoided Viki very well. But of course, everything came crashing in for her. Michael found out where she was, Viki saw her, and Todd (with the cops) closed in on her. In this story climax, Kathy Brier show her full acting abilities. Her work was amazing and totally Emmy-worthy. Marcie went to extremes by taking Viki hostage at the cafe. She had no other place to go. Michael (now Chris Stack) exchanged himself with Viki and shared emotional scenes with Marcie & Tommy. He convinced Marcie that she had to give Tommy to Todd. There was no other choice. Marcie was arrested and fortunately sentenced to community service.
Marcie tried to continue a normal life with Michael, but her budding career as a teacher was tarnished. As were their chances of adopting any more children. Parenthood didn't seem to be in their future. But when Starr Manning, Todd's daughter, got pregnant last year by Cole Thornhart, she was unsure about keeping the baby. She was only 16, and she overheard Marcie saying how much she wants to be a mom but can't. Starr decided to give her baby to Marcie via open adoption. Marcie wasn't sure at first but then agreed to it. Michael was against it because of Todd, and he moved out. Marcie was determined to go through with the adoption and raise the baby on her own if she had too. She always hoped Michael would change his mind, though. Marcie happily eased Starr along every step of the pregnancy. Meanwhile, Todd planned to steal the baby and raise it with an amnesiac Marty Saybrooke. He changed his mind the night the baby was born. But since the start of his plan was in motion, it was easy for Jessica Buchanan's alter, Bess, to switch the baby with her dead one. Marcie and Starr mourned for their baby girl, Hope, while Jessica was raising her as Chloe without any knowledge of what Bess did. Another chance at having a baby was seemingly shattered. Michael mourned too and grieved with Marcie, bringing them together again.
A recent series of events & revelations led to Hope being returned to Starr and then Marcie. Natalie Buchanan and Jared Banks learned the truth well before anyone else but kept it a secret to protect Jessica. Marcie found out that Hope couldn't have died from RH disease, as originally believed. Jessica was gradually unraveling. She reverted back to Bess and took "Chloe" since Bess knew how close the secret was to coming out. Jared & Natalie told Viki and Clint the truth, and Bess was found in West Virginia. Jessica came back out and with mom Viki's help realized her baby died & Bess switched the babies. By now, Starr's and Cole's parents learned the truth and told everything to them. Hope was returned to Starr & Cole briefly for a farewell before Marcie & Michael took her. But it didn't feel right anymore to Marcie.
Marcie got the feeling that Starr wanted to keep Hope. She was right. Also last week, she brought the baby back to Starr, and they shared very moving & poignant scenes in Starr's bedroom. I consider that to be Marcie's last hurrah. She did such a wonderful thing in giving Hope to Starr. To us, it seemed like Marcie wouldn't have a child. But maybe she had suspected she was pregnant. She did take a pregnancy test. Maybe she learned that she could have children. Of course, when someone on soaps can't have children, it doesn't stay that way.
And then, of course, Michael sprung the idea of moving out of Llanview for a fresh start. And we got a happy ending. Marcie fans, never forget her final moments: smiling while showing Michael the positive pregnancy test and then laughing as Michael picked her up & spun her around. Pure happiness. Their dream will finally come true. And we'll never forget Marcie Walsh McBain - wife, mother, sweet friend, and even singer. She began as a young college student and grew into a caring woman liked & loved by many. We will miss her & Kathy Brier and hope for nothing but the best. I'm sure Kathy will move on to more success and Marcie will raise her child on "Cloud Nine" with Michael.
I don't know if there is a Michael & Marcie website, but there is a Marcie & Al one. You can live through everything Al & Marcie (aka Marcal) on this wonderful fan-made site: http://tessarae_2.tripod.com/marcal_2.htm.
And there's always Kathy Brier's websites to support her and keep up with her music, acting, & whatever she does next:
http://kathybrier.com/
http://www.myspace.com/kathybrier
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Divas-of-Daytime/57142508951
While it was two characters who left, Marcie was the more beloved one. Michael only became prominent because of her (and John, I suppose) and was cared about more when portrayed by Nathaniel Marston. Marcie has been around since 2002, her maiden name being Walsh. She was only suppose to be on for three episodes. For a while she was a recurring character, her sole purpose being Jen Rappaport's best friend. Her role expanded, and viewers came to love her. She was real and down-to-earth. What made her so appealing was her size. She was heavy like so many women are in real life. Usually, the soap operas are full of super-thin women. It was wonderfully refreshing to have a strong female character with a real weight.
Marcie reached the height of her popularity when paired with Al Holden (also portrayed by Nathaniel Marston). They were adorable, and I probably saw their entire relationship. But so much is fuzzy because I got hooked on them towards the end of their short romance. Both attending Llanview University, Marcie was Al's tutor. They became friends, and their biggest hurdle was Al's drug addiction. She staged an intervention by herself and helped him through detoxification. Then they were free to fall in love. It was such a pure, sweet love between them. They took everything step-by-step since Marcie was afraid of making love with him. She didn't want to disappoint him, and she was self-conscious of her weight. Al was her hero through her weight issues, and he supported her stance on world peace. Classmates believed she wasn't supporting or caring about the troops fighting for their country. They treated her badly, and I'm sure thin girls saw her as easy to pick on because of her weight. Girls made her sing by a dumpster as they threw trash at her. Another night she was kidnapped, knocked out, and tossed into a dumpster. Al found her and spent the night by her side in her dorm room. College life was not easy for Marcie Walsh, but nothing could keep her down for long. She only grew stronger from those horrible experiences.
The most unique aspect of Al & Marcie was their love for music. It was such a prominent part of their lives, and it really added to their romance. Al secretly took a job as a radio host. He called himself "The Voice Of The Night", sharing words of wisdom and playing meaningful songs. Marcie got sucked into every word he said, and at some point she discovered who "the voice" was. I think that was a big factor in her falling for him. Al burned Marcie a CD, called Marcie's Mix, the very night they said their first "I love you"s. One special song on it was "This Year's Love" by David Gray. They sat together on the floor, holding each other while listening to it & talking. More songs used for them were: "Take Me Away" by Lifehouse, "Take A Little Piece Of My Heart" by Janis Joplin (sung by Marcie), and "Something Right" by Julia Fordham.
That dumpster incident came with consequences. Marcie passed along an infection to Al, and he became so ill that he needed a liver transplant. His mom donated part of hers, but it wasn't enough. Al's liver was too damaged, also in part from his drug use. Al, the love of Marcie's life, died. It was a tragedy for her and his parents - legendary characters Grabrielle Medina and Max Holden. It was also tragedy for the fans; Al & Marcie's love story had only just begun. Music continued to be used for this precious couple. Marcie played "This Year's Love" on the radio in memory of him as a montage of their greatest moments were shown. Max and Gabrielle were also shown crying, and Marcie sang along through her tears. Marcie sang "Iris" by the Goo Goo Dolls during Al's funeral; it was his favorite song. And "The Scientist" by Coldplay played as Gabrielle and Marcie comforted & held each other. I think they were in Al's dorm room, going through his belongings. Music expresses love & loss so beautifully, and it helps to have those songs to remember Marcie & Al by. It connects us to them.
It was so easy to feel Marcie's pain. She was sad for a good couple of months. Kathy Brier portrayed her grief brilliantly. But Marcie wouldn't be heartbroken forever. Death cannot stop true love. Like magic, Al got a second chance with Marcie, with the help of his former step-mom Luna Moody. I think first he could see & hear Marcie and everything but no one could see/hear him. Then his soul was put into Michael McBain (also Nathaniel Marston), a bitter doctor leading a lonely life. Every time Al's soul was in him, it's like he was Al. But no one knew it. Al's mission was to get Marcie to see that it was Al inside Michael by the end of Valentine's Day. He tried & tried, but Michael made some mistakes without Al's soul. And Marcie was still grieving.
On Valentine's night "Michael" had Marcie's favorite band, Simply Red, play at Capricorn. They played "Sunrise" and "You Make Me Feel Brand New". The latter is Marcie's favorite, and she danced to it with "Michael". Afterwards, Al did just about everything he could, and he finally succeeded in getting Marcie to see it was him. She stared into his eyes to Michael's soul, and for one episode we had Al & Marcie back together. It couldn't stay that way. Once time was up, they both forgot what had just happened, but Al's soul was forever inside of Michael. And the love story of Michael & Marcie began.
My memory of Michael & Marcie before their wedding is fuzzy. I know I saw everything that happened to them, but a lot is vague. I know they had their ups and downs. They broke up and got back together - that typical soap couple thing. Marcie began writing a crime novel and did some investigating on her own. She even sort of shadowed the police to understand their job better. She proved to be a talented writer. Her book, The Killing Club, was brought to life, and it was a good read. It centered on one character solving a series of murders that related to something in her past. What broke Marcie & Michael up was their strong focus on their respective careers. The killings began occurring for real, and there was a big serial killer storyline that Marcie was, of course, involved in. But I don't remember too much of that, and Marcie wasn't injured.
On another Valentine's Day (probably 2006) Michael planned to propose, and Marcie had no clue. They were at Ultra Violet to see Lifehouse perform. Again, more music. During the song "You And Me" Michael had the television screens set up to say, "Will you marry me?" Marcie was shocked. They discussed this huge decision to get married, and in the end Marcie said, "Yes." They were blissfully happy, and they wed in early May. Despite a looming tornado, the wedding went off without a hitch. It was beautiful, and the reception was like a real wedding, for the most part. What sets it a part from any other is that Marcie sang to Michael: an original song, "When It's Real". It appeared on Kathy Brier's sole album, Heartbreaker. It's suits them so well. I don't think Michael & Marcie had a honeymoon. Maybe they did, and we didn't see it.
From the tornado rubble was a baby boy. The disaster made him an orphan, and Marcie & Michael found & took care of him. They fell so in love with the baby, and Marcie realized she wanted to be a mother more than anything. They learned at some point that they couldn't have children the natural way (or so they thought). They fought to adopt the baby and named him Tommy. They were truly Tommy's parents, but it later was revealed that Tommy was biologically Todd's son with Margaret Cochran. Michael worked with Rex Balsom & Adrianna Cramer to keep it a secret. Secrets don't stay hidden for long. Once the truth was out, there was a custody battle. Todd was awarded custody, but Marcie wouldn't have it. She went on the run with Tommy, leaving Michael behind because he wasn't as determined as she was & she was still angry with him for keeping the secret.
We saw what a protective mama bear Marcie really is. She knew how dangerous Todd is and could not let him raise Tommy. She put her life on the line to protect and raise Tommy. And she truly is a wonderful mom. I was on her side through this whole thing. She and Michael would have given Tommy a better life than Todd. They deserved him more than Todd. Marcie hid at her brother's place, in a drag club, and finally ended up at The Bonjoir Cafe in Paris, TX - where Viki Lord was also hiding & living a new life. Todd was always on her tail, but she managed to hide in Texas for a while as Sally Ann, a waitress. She avoided Viki very well. But of course, everything came crashing in for her. Michael found out where she was, Viki saw her, and Todd (with the cops) closed in on her. In this story climax, Kathy Brier show her full acting abilities. Her work was amazing and totally Emmy-worthy. Marcie went to extremes by taking Viki hostage at the cafe. She had no other place to go. Michael (now Chris Stack) exchanged himself with Viki and shared emotional scenes with Marcie & Tommy. He convinced Marcie that she had to give Tommy to Todd. There was no other choice. Marcie was arrested and fortunately sentenced to community service.
Marcie tried to continue a normal life with Michael, but her budding career as a teacher was tarnished. As were their chances of adopting any more children. Parenthood didn't seem to be in their future. But when Starr Manning, Todd's daughter, got pregnant last year by Cole Thornhart, she was unsure about keeping the baby. She was only 16, and she overheard Marcie saying how much she wants to be a mom but can't. Starr decided to give her baby to Marcie via open adoption. Marcie wasn't sure at first but then agreed to it. Michael was against it because of Todd, and he moved out. Marcie was determined to go through with the adoption and raise the baby on her own if she had too. She always hoped Michael would change his mind, though. Marcie happily eased Starr along every step of the pregnancy. Meanwhile, Todd planned to steal the baby and raise it with an amnesiac Marty Saybrooke. He changed his mind the night the baby was born. But since the start of his plan was in motion, it was easy for Jessica Buchanan's alter, Bess, to switch the baby with her dead one. Marcie and Starr mourned for their baby girl, Hope, while Jessica was raising her as Chloe without any knowledge of what Bess did. Another chance at having a baby was seemingly shattered. Michael mourned too and grieved with Marcie, bringing them together again.
A recent series of events & revelations led to Hope being returned to Starr and then Marcie. Natalie Buchanan and Jared Banks learned the truth well before anyone else but kept it a secret to protect Jessica. Marcie found out that Hope couldn't have died from RH disease, as originally believed. Jessica was gradually unraveling. She reverted back to Bess and took "Chloe" since Bess knew how close the secret was to coming out. Jared & Natalie told Viki and Clint the truth, and Bess was found in West Virginia. Jessica came back out and with mom Viki's help realized her baby died & Bess switched the babies. By now, Starr's and Cole's parents learned the truth and told everything to them. Hope was returned to Starr & Cole briefly for a farewell before Marcie & Michael took her. But it didn't feel right anymore to Marcie.
Marcie got the feeling that Starr wanted to keep Hope. She was right. Also last week, she brought the baby back to Starr, and they shared very moving & poignant scenes in Starr's bedroom. I consider that to be Marcie's last hurrah. She did such a wonderful thing in giving Hope to Starr. To us, it seemed like Marcie wouldn't have a child. But maybe she had suspected she was pregnant. She did take a pregnancy test. Maybe she learned that she could have children. Of course, when someone on soaps can't have children, it doesn't stay that way.
And then, of course, Michael sprung the idea of moving out of Llanview for a fresh start. And we got a happy ending. Marcie fans, never forget her final moments: smiling while showing Michael the positive pregnancy test and then laughing as Michael picked her up & spun her around. Pure happiness. Their dream will finally come true. And we'll never forget Marcie Walsh McBain - wife, mother, sweet friend, and even singer. She began as a young college student and grew into a caring woman liked & loved by many. We will miss her & Kathy Brier and hope for nothing but the best. I'm sure Kathy will move on to more success and Marcie will raise her child on "Cloud Nine" with Michael.
I don't know if there is a Michael & Marcie website, but there is a Marcie & Al one. You can live through everything Al & Marcie (aka Marcal) on this wonderful fan-made site: http://tessarae_2.tripod.com/marcal_2.htm.
And there's always Kathy Brier's websites to support her and keep up with her music, acting, & whatever she does next:
http://kathybrier.com/
http://www.myspace.com/kathybrier
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Divas-of-Daytime/57142508951
5.21.2009
SOW's 20 Most Fascinating Couples
In the May 26, 2009 issue of Soap Opera Weekly there are twenty couples featured and celebrated. Here's the little introduction paragraph and a list of the spectacular twenty.
Try narrowing 20 years of soap love stories into 20 memorable couples - it's not easy! (We're putting the 20 runners-up on our Web site.) Check our latest "20 most..." list, and then vote for your fave at http://www.soapoperaweekly.com. Is your couple not on our list? Write them in at tellus@soapoperaweekly.com. (Remember, the couple had to get romantically involved between 1989 and 2009, which makes some classic pairs ineligible.)
All My Children:
Noah and Julia
Tad & Dixie
Another World:
Cass and Frankie
As The World Turns:
Jack and Carly
Luke and Noah
The Bold And The Beautiful:
Deacon and Brooke
Days Of Our Lives:
Jack and Jennifer
Shawn and Belle
General Hospital:
Sonny and Carly
Guiding Light:
Bill and Lizzie
Olivia and Natalia
Loving:
Casey and Aly
One Life To Live:
Jake and Megan
Patrick and Marty
Passions:
Luis and Sheridan
Port Charles:
Caleb and Livvie
Santa Barbara:
Warren and BJ
Sunset Beach:
Ben and Meg
The Young And The Restless:
Michael and Lauren
Phyllis and Nick
Try narrowing 20 years of soap love stories into 20 memorable couples - it's not easy! (We're putting the 20 runners-up on our Web site.) Check our latest "20 most..." list, and then vote for your fave at http://www.soapoperaweekly.com. Is your couple not on our list? Write them in at tellus@soapoperaweekly.com. (Remember, the couple had to get romantically involved between 1989 and 2009, which makes some classic pairs ineligible.)
All My Children:
Noah and Julia
Tad & Dixie
Another World:
Cass and Frankie
As The World Turns:
Jack and Carly
Luke and Noah
The Bold And The Beautiful:
Deacon and Brooke
Days Of Our Lives:
Jack and Jennifer
Shawn and Belle
General Hospital:
Sonny and Carly
Guiding Light:
Bill and Lizzie
Olivia and Natalia
Loving:
Casey and Aly
One Life To Live:
Jake and Megan
Patrick and Marty
Passions:
Luis and Sheridan
Port Charles:
Caleb and Livvie
Santa Barbara:
Warren and BJ
Sunset Beach:
Ben and Meg
The Young And The Restless:
Michael and Lauren
Phyllis and Nick
5.16.2009
2009 Daytime Emmy Nominations
This year the Emmys will be on the CW on August 30, hosted by Tyra Banks. The nominations came out May 14, and we now have a 3-month wait. The noms are surprising, to say the least. There are some glaring omissions. I just hope the actual ceremony will be worth-watching and not too focused on everything but soap operas. We'll have to wait and see, won't we? :)
And now for the major nominees...
Outstanding Directing Team:
All My Children
Days Our Our Lives
One Life To Live
Outstanding Writing Team:
All My Children
General Hospital
One Life To Live
The Bold And The Beautiful
Outstanding Younger Actress:
Meredith Hagner (Liberty, ATWT)
Rachel Melvin (Chelsea, DAYS)
Kirsten Storms (Maxie, GH)
Julie Marie Berman (Lulu, GH)
Emily O'Brien (Jana, Y&R)
Outstanding Younger Actor:
Cornelius Smith Jr. (Frankie, AMC)
Darin Brooks (Max, DAYS)
Blake Berris (Nick, DAYS)
EJ Bonilla (Rafe, GL)
Bryton McClure (Devon, Y&R)
Outstanding Supporting Actress:
Melissa Claire Egan (Annie, AMC)
Alicia Minshew (Kendall, AMC)
Julie Pinson (Janet, ATWT)
Tamara Braun (Ava, DAYS)
Bree Williamson (Jessica, OLTL)
Outstanding Supporting Actor:
Vincent Irizarry (David, AMC)
Jacob Young (JR, AMC)
Van Hansis (Luke, ATWT)
Bradford Anderson (Spinelli, GH)
Jeff Branson (Shayne, GL)
Outstanding Lead Actress:
Debbi Morgan (Angie, AMC)
Maura West (Carly, ATWT)
Susan Haskell (Marty, OLTL)
Susan Flannery (Stephanie, B&B)
Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Y&R)
Outstanding Lead Actor:
Thorsten Kaye (Zach, AMC)
Peter Reckell (Bo, DAYS)
Anthony Geary (Luke, GH)
Daniel Cosgrove (Bill, GL)
Christian LeBlanc (Michael, Y&R)
Outstanding Drama Series:
All My Children
Days Of Our Lives
The Bold And The Beautiful
I am NOT amused! Nor impressed! Every year now these nominations end up being surprising & disappointing. This year's are a bit better than last year's, from what I remember. But overall, they're a let-down. In a personal way, there isn't anyone I'm overly excited about. None of my favorites are here. As an All My Children viewer, I cannot believe it has the most nominations. It doesn't deserve all of those noms! Being a huge supporter of the soap world, there seems to be some balance in the acting categories, except for AMC's apparent domination and Bold & Beautiful's one lonely nom.
AMC has many talented actors, but I don't understand Irizarry's and Young's nominations. Aren't there more deserving supporting actors than them? I'm the happiest with Morgan's nomination, and THANK GOD that Brianne Moncrief (Colby) didn't get a nom. But what about Michael E. Knight (Tad)? He had some top notch work in '08.
I'm happy with most of As The World Turns' and all of One Life To Live's nominations. Not sure about ATWT's Hagner and Pinson; I haven't watched enough of them to see if they deserve Emmys. Hansis should win for Supporting Actor; it's been a long time coming. OLTL's Haskell should win for Lead Actress; the "rapemance" story was HUGE for her. Why Kristen Alderson (Starr) & Brandon Buddy (Cole) didn't get nominated I don't know. And yet again Kathy Brier (Marcie) is omitted.
I love Guiding Light's nominations; I wish there was more. How about Marcy Rylan (Lizzie), Crystal Chappell (Olivia), and Gina Tognoni (Dinah)?
The usual General Hospital actors are nominated, and again, I don't know why Geary is. He's stuck with the same kind of material year after year plus he gets two long vacations. What did he do this past year that deserves an Emmy? Why wasn't there more GH noms?
Then you have the usual Y&R nominees, but I'm surprised there's no Kristoff St. John (Neil). I'm also stunned that Y&R doesn't have two nominees in both lead categories. And I keep hearing about how amazing Billy Miller (Billy) and Elizabeth Hendrickson (Chloe) are! No noms for them?
I'm pleased with all the Days Of Our Lives noms because that show usually doesn't get the credit & recognition it deserves.
B&B is the one that got shafted. Way to go, Flannery, for B&B's single acting nomination! Not sure if there should have been more or not.
On the whole, I'm the happiest with the Lead Actress category because I know all of those women deserve to be there. I'm the most displeased with BOTH younger categories because I believe there may be better actresses & actors than some of the ones there.
I'm rooting for OLTL in both the Directing and Writing categories because it is one of the best soaps. It has been for, like, 2 years now. AMC had better not win for Writing because most of the past year it has been sh*t!
This leads us to the biggest reason to hate the Daytime Emmys this year: Outstanding Drama Series. What the f**k?? Only three nominees and not the most deserving AT ALL! DAYS maybe, but the other two, no. AMC is in a deep hole, and I can't believe it's better than OLTL or GH. That being said, where are OLTL & GH? Or even Y&R - the other best soap? I think even GL was pretty good this past year. And WHY only THREE nominees? That doesn't make sense! I think I'm honestly rooting for DAYS , but being a long-time AMC fan I could easily change my mind. Of course, it all depends on what episodes were submitted. AMC did have some great ones in the beginning of the year. Maybe because of that, they deserve to win. It's just shocking that other, more-deserving soaps are omitted.
And now for the major nominees...
Outstanding Directing Team:
All My Children
Days Our Our Lives
One Life To Live
Outstanding Writing Team:
All My Children
General Hospital
One Life To Live
The Bold And The Beautiful
Outstanding Younger Actress:
Meredith Hagner (Liberty, ATWT)
Rachel Melvin (Chelsea, DAYS)
Kirsten Storms (Maxie, GH)
Julie Marie Berman (Lulu, GH)
Emily O'Brien (Jana, Y&R)
Outstanding Younger Actor:
Cornelius Smith Jr. (Frankie, AMC)
Darin Brooks (Max, DAYS)
Blake Berris (Nick, DAYS)
EJ Bonilla (Rafe, GL)
Bryton McClure (Devon, Y&R)
Outstanding Supporting Actress:
Melissa Claire Egan (Annie, AMC)
Alicia Minshew (Kendall, AMC)
Julie Pinson (Janet, ATWT)
Tamara Braun (Ava, DAYS)
Bree Williamson (Jessica, OLTL)
Outstanding Supporting Actor:
Vincent Irizarry (David, AMC)
Jacob Young (JR, AMC)
Van Hansis (Luke, ATWT)
Bradford Anderson (Spinelli, GH)
Jeff Branson (Shayne, GL)
Outstanding Lead Actress:
Debbi Morgan (Angie, AMC)
Maura West (Carly, ATWT)
Susan Haskell (Marty, OLTL)
Susan Flannery (Stephanie, B&B)
Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Y&R)
Outstanding Lead Actor:
Thorsten Kaye (Zach, AMC)
Peter Reckell (Bo, DAYS)
Anthony Geary (Luke, GH)
Daniel Cosgrove (Bill, GL)
Christian LeBlanc (Michael, Y&R)
Outstanding Drama Series:
All My Children
Days Of Our Lives
The Bold And The Beautiful
I am NOT amused! Nor impressed! Every year now these nominations end up being surprising & disappointing. This year's are a bit better than last year's, from what I remember. But overall, they're a let-down. In a personal way, there isn't anyone I'm overly excited about. None of my favorites are here. As an All My Children viewer, I cannot believe it has the most nominations. It doesn't deserve all of those noms! Being a huge supporter of the soap world, there seems to be some balance in the acting categories, except for AMC's apparent domination and Bold & Beautiful's one lonely nom.
AMC has many talented actors, but I don't understand Irizarry's and Young's nominations. Aren't there more deserving supporting actors than them? I'm the happiest with Morgan's nomination, and THANK GOD that Brianne Moncrief (Colby) didn't get a nom. But what about Michael E. Knight (Tad)? He had some top notch work in '08.
I'm happy with most of As The World Turns' and all of One Life To Live's nominations. Not sure about ATWT's Hagner and Pinson; I haven't watched enough of them to see if they deserve Emmys. Hansis should win for Supporting Actor; it's been a long time coming. OLTL's Haskell should win for Lead Actress; the "rapemance" story was HUGE for her. Why Kristen Alderson (Starr) & Brandon Buddy (Cole) didn't get nominated I don't know. And yet again Kathy Brier (Marcie) is omitted.
I love Guiding Light's nominations; I wish there was more. How about Marcy Rylan (Lizzie), Crystal Chappell (Olivia), and Gina Tognoni (Dinah)?
The usual General Hospital actors are nominated, and again, I don't know why Geary is. He's stuck with the same kind of material year after year plus he gets two long vacations. What did he do this past year that deserves an Emmy? Why wasn't there more GH noms?
Then you have the usual Y&R nominees, but I'm surprised there's no Kristoff St. John (Neil). I'm also stunned that Y&R doesn't have two nominees in both lead categories. And I keep hearing about how amazing Billy Miller (Billy) and Elizabeth Hendrickson (Chloe) are! No noms for them?
I'm pleased with all the Days Of Our Lives noms because that show usually doesn't get the credit & recognition it deserves.
B&B is the one that got shafted. Way to go, Flannery, for B&B's single acting nomination! Not sure if there should have been more or not.
On the whole, I'm the happiest with the Lead Actress category because I know all of those women deserve to be there. I'm the most displeased with BOTH younger categories because I believe there may be better actresses & actors than some of the ones there.
I'm rooting for OLTL in both the Directing and Writing categories because it is one of the best soaps. It has been for, like, 2 years now. AMC had better not win for Writing because most of the past year it has been sh*t!
This leads us to the biggest reason to hate the Daytime Emmys this year: Outstanding Drama Series. What the f**k?? Only three nominees and not the most deserving AT ALL! DAYS maybe, but the other two, no. AMC is in a deep hole, and I can't believe it's better than OLTL or GH. That being said, where are OLTL & GH? Or even Y&R - the other best soap? I think even GL was pretty good this past year. And WHY only THREE nominees? That doesn't make sense! I think I'm honestly rooting for DAYS , but being a long-time AMC fan I could easily change my mind. Of course, it all depends on what episodes were submitted. AMC did have some great ones in the beginning of the year. Maybe because of that, they deserve to win. It's just shocking that other, more-deserving soaps are omitted.
4.25.2009
GL ~ Two Traveling Couples
This past week on Guiding Light we saw two pairs leave Springfield on spontaneous trips. Shayne & Dinah went to the country of Bosnia while Bill & Lizzie went first to New York City and then to Orlando, Florida. "Shaynah" left for serious business & closure, and "Bizzie" left for dating & fun. I adore both couples, so I was paying attention to their every moment. It is something that they had trips during the same week, but extremely different things happened with them. And I know their trips are still going on (Bizzie's is, at least), but I wanted to just write about this first week.
It was Dinah's idea for Shayne to travel to Bosnia. They were listening to Lara's music box and dancing since Lara had always wanted to learn to dance. Dinah thought of going to Bosnia so Shayne could finally make peace with her death. She felt Shayne should visit Lara's grave site to receive closure. She opted to go with him for support, and it shows how much she cares about him. How they found such a quick flight to Bosnia I have no clue. Once there, Shayne showed Dinah where he & Lara had their work set up and explained how much things have changed for Bosnia citizens. He also told how he & Lara met and fell in love. Dinah didn't mind hearing all of that; she has been wonderfully patient with him as he deals with Lara's & their baby's deaths. I just think that is so beautiful. You can tell that they're falling love because they keep getting closer. They are always there for one another. At the grave site Dinah left Shayne alone for a little while so he could talk to Lara and ended up talking to a nun from the Bosnian Orphanage. Dinah had helped Mallet & Marina adopt (albeit illegally) a baby boy, but the nun believed she stole him. Dinah explained everything, and we find out at the very end of Thursday's episode that the baby was Lara's. Holy cow! That revelation caught me by surprise and totally blew me away. It did not see that coming. The nun explained that the baby was delivered before Lara died, and they didn't know who the father is. Thus, he ended up in the orphanage. Dinah hasn't told Shayne yet. She tried to (without much effort), but he has made his peace and is ready to put the past behind him. To him he can finally move on with Dinah, which is so nice. But now we (and Dinah) know his baby is alive & living happily with Mallet & Marina. I love and hate this angst. This is such a good twist that combines two storylines, but at the same time this pains me. Mallet and Marina are so in love with the baby, and they've made such a great home for him. I can't imagine anything taking him away from them, but he is Shayne's baby & Shayne's everlasting connection to Lara. I don't know who to root for in this situation, but look out for Edmund wanting to take his grandchild & keep him from Shayne.
Meanwhile, it was Bill's idea to travel to New York City for time alone with Lizzie away from family, work, and any other distractions. But their alone time was unique, to say the least. Bill and Lizzie have begun dating as if they haven't been involved for the past year or so. They re-introduced themselves and are getting to know one another the slow way that couples should. They've done an impressive job keeping that up. No sleeping together, no making out. None of that. They're not getting each other wrapped up in family drama, though they both work at Spaulding Enterprises. They've been calling each other and setting up dates. I believe they've had dates 1 through 4, and somehow Bill had the thought of a fun New York City trip for dates 5 through 10. Wonderful idea! What better place than NYC to have a bunch of different dates?! They flew by private jet, and once there, they still called one another to set up their dates. I think I got a little annoyed with that. They were standing just A FEW FEET apart talking on the phone. Did that bother anyone else? I understand why they did that, but still! Anyway... It seemed like numerous dates occurred in ONE day. Of course, if they were in the city overnight, they had separate hotel rooms. Bill discovered that Lizzie knows the city very well and has already done or been to what they did on their dates. There were restaurants, the theater, a carriage ride, and the carousel in Central Park. She had never done those things with Bill, though, but he wanted to take her someplace new. They took the private jet to Orlando, Florida for some sunny, pool-side relaxation. Bill had Lizzie pampered with that and a spa massage he had arranged. They also played around in the pool, which was sweet. All the while, Bill had planned a day of fun for Lizzie, which she knew about. As of Friday's episode, it's suppose to be the next day. He wants for Lizzie to be a child again, and they will be at Universal Studios this week. Very exciting! It should be an enjoyable week. After a day of being a child, they're suppose to return to being adults, and they would have had at least 10 dates. Maybe more. BUT according to previews, their alone time will be interrupted with Phillip, Beth, Alan, and James showing up. And I think more characters are suppose to arrive too since this was a prominent location shoot for GL. I cannot wait to see what happens!
And there you have it, readers! Two couples. Two very different adventures. One was dramatic, the other lighthearted. We are left with new startling information and awaiting more from a sunny paradise. There is much more to come this week. Perhaps I'll be compelled to write a part two next weekend.
It was Dinah's idea for Shayne to travel to Bosnia. They were listening to Lara's music box and dancing since Lara had always wanted to learn to dance. Dinah thought of going to Bosnia so Shayne could finally make peace with her death. She felt Shayne should visit Lara's grave site to receive closure. She opted to go with him for support, and it shows how much she cares about him. How they found such a quick flight to Bosnia I have no clue. Once there, Shayne showed Dinah where he & Lara had their work set up and explained how much things have changed for Bosnia citizens. He also told how he & Lara met and fell in love. Dinah didn't mind hearing all of that; she has been wonderfully patient with him as he deals with Lara's & their baby's deaths. I just think that is so beautiful. You can tell that they're falling love because they keep getting closer. They are always there for one another. At the grave site Dinah left Shayne alone for a little while so he could talk to Lara and ended up talking to a nun from the Bosnian Orphanage. Dinah had helped Mallet & Marina adopt (albeit illegally) a baby boy, but the nun believed she stole him. Dinah explained everything, and we find out at the very end of Thursday's episode that the baby was Lara's. Holy cow! That revelation caught me by surprise and totally blew me away. It did not see that coming. The nun explained that the baby was delivered before Lara died, and they didn't know who the father is. Thus, he ended up in the orphanage. Dinah hasn't told Shayne yet. She tried to (without much effort), but he has made his peace and is ready to put the past behind him. To him he can finally move on with Dinah, which is so nice. But now we (and Dinah) know his baby is alive & living happily with Mallet & Marina. I love and hate this angst. This is such a good twist that combines two storylines, but at the same time this pains me. Mallet and Marina are so in love with the baby, and they've made such a great home for him. I can't imagine anything taking him away from them, but he is Shayne's baby & Shayne's everlasting connection to Lara. I don't know who to root for in this situation, but look out for Edmund wanting to take his grandchild & keep him from Shayne.
Meanwhile, it was Bill's idea to travel to New York City for time alone with Lizzie away from family, work, and any other distractions. But their alone time was unique, to say the least. Bill and Lizzie have begun dating as if they haven't been involved for the past year or so. They re-introduced themselves and are getting to know one another the slow way that couples should. They've done an impressive job keeping that up. No sleeping together, no making out. None of that. They're not getting each other wrapped up in family drama, though they both work at Spaulding Enterprises. They've been calling each other and setting up dates. I believe they've had dates 1 through 4, and somehow Bill had the thought of a fun New York City trip for dates 5 through 10. Wonderful idea! What better place than NYC to have a bunch of different dates?! They flew by private jet, and once there, they still called one another to set up their dates. I think I got a little annoyed with that. They were standing just A FEW FEET apart talking on the phone. Did that bother anyone else? I understand why they did that, but still! Anyway... It seemed like numerous dates occurred in ONE day. Of course, if they were in the city overnight, they had separate hotel rooms. Bill discovered that Lizzie knows the city very well and has already done or been to what they did on their dates. There were restaurants, the theater, a carriage ride, and the carousel in Central Park. She had never done those things with Bill, though, but he wanted to take her someplace new. They took the private jet to Orlando, Florida for some sunny, pool-side relaxation. Bill had Lizzie pampered with that and a spa massage he had arranged. They also played around in the pool, which was sweet. All the while, Bill had planned a day of fun for Lizzie, which she knew about. As of Friday's episode, it's suppose to be the next day. He wants for Lizzie to be a child again, and they will be at Universal Studios this week. Very exciting! It should be an enjoyable week. After a day of being a child, they're suppose to return to being adults, and they would have had at least 10 dates. Maybe more. BUT according to previews, their alone time will be interrupted with Phillip, Beth, Alan, and James showing up. And I think more characters are suppose to arrive too since this was a prominent location shoot for GL. I cannot wait to see what happens!
And there you have it, readers! Two couples. Two very different adventures. One was dramatic, the other lighthearted. We are left with new startling information and awaiting more from a sunny paradise. There is much more to come this week. Perhaps I'll be compelled to write a part two next weekend.
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