The internet radio show, Stardish Radio, also had a two-hour episode discussing the best and worst of the soap world. A couple people called in throughout the show, and special guest Michael Fairman discussed his choices as well. It was pretty insightful but also a bit rushed since they couldn't go into overtime so easily like podcasts can. And there were plenty of interesting categories.
You can listen to the episode here: Best & Worst with Michael Fairman
Since not all of the categories were covered, you can check out Michael's site for the rest of his picks: Michael's Best & Worst
I followed along with the show, making my own picks again. And looking at Michael's site, I made picks in categories that the show didn't get to. There were a few I left out, but most of them I have covered. There are a couple categories that were also featured on Daytime Confidential. I think most of the categories are different and will make you think about who you'd choose. This list is also ABC-soap-heavy since I haven't been a regular GL & ATWT viewer in a while.
Best Comeback(s): Debbi Morgan & Darnell Williams (Angie & Jesse, AMC) - The story that ensued after their return wasn't great, but it's all about the moment they first saw each other after being apart for 20 years. That moment at the train station... Jesse rushed off the train. Angie turned at just the right time to see him through the train's smoke. And it was this perfect moment when they came together with Alicia Keys' "Like You'll Never See Me Again" playing. The next few episodes they were alone together in every way that counts. Beautiful return!
Florencia Lozano (Tea, OLTL) - I LOVE TEA! I looked forward to her return but not to seeing her with Todd. (Tea has only interacted with Roger Howardth's Todd.) To my surprise I have loved every second of her being back, and most of her scenes have been with Todd. Florencia makes one fabulous attorney even though I don't agree with Tea defending Todd. Despite all of what Todd put her through, she is back in Lanview with a backbone. No one can take her down, and I love it!
Worst Comeback: Rebecca Budig (Greenlee, AMC) - It all started with those promos advertising Rebecca as the "real" Greenlee. Terrible for ex-Greenlee Sabine Singh. And it went downhill from there. Rebecca had bad story throughout her entire return. Greenlee almost died of root poisoning, which was preposterous. She was with Aiden, and they didn't have any chemistry. She moved on from Aiden back to Ryan too quickly. Two bad pairings were what Rebecca was stuck with.
Most Underrated Actor: Cornelius Smith Jr. (Frankie, AMC) - He has been put to task by sharing scenes with the great Darnell Williams, Debbi Morgan, Ricky Paull Goldin, and Beth Ehlers. And he shined in all of those scenes with those & other actors. He amazes me; I believe he has a great future with this show. Cornelius has become a fine actor, and I don't think he gets enough praise.
Most Underrated Actress: Carolyn Hennesy (Diane, GH) - She does not get the credit she deserves, at least not by TPTB. Every time she is on screen she is phenomenal. You do not turn away when Diane is on because she steals the show. Place her with Alexis, she's funny. Place her with Sonny, she's tough. Place her with ANYONE, she's fantastic. She needs more material. I believe she could handle anything.
Moment of the Year (Male): AMC's Tad (Michael E. Knight) meeting his daughter, Kate - We fans had long known that Kathy, Julia's "niece", was Tad & Dixie's mistakenly-given-up daughter, Kate. It just took over a year for Tad to find out. Through the power of Dixie's spiritual intervention, Tad & Kate were finally united. And the scenes where Tad talked to Kate/Kathy were so moving and something that all Tad/Dixie fans were waiting for. Michael did an awesome job as Tad connected with the daughter that he & Dixie always wanted.
Moment(s) of the Year (Female): OLTL's Jessica saying goodbye to Nash - Bree Williamson drove me to tears when Jessica had to say goodbye to her husband, Nash. I wasn't a big Nash/Jessica fan, but his death was heartbreaking. I don't believe he had to die to leave the show, but it produced amazing scenes. Jessica had such a tearful farewell with him, and he couldn't even speak. She also brought in their daughter and told him she was pregnant. Bree just blew me away and made me cry.
OLTL's Marcie giving up Tommy - At the very beginning of the year there was the huge climax to the Todd/Tommy/Marcie story. Marcie was driven to extremes when she got cornered in the Bonjour Cafe. She took Viki hostage and remained determined to keep "running" with little Tommy (aka Sam). Husband Michael got in and made her realize she had to surrender Tommy to Todd. Kathy Brier did a fabulous job portraying a desperate adoptive mom coming to terms with having no other option but to give up her son.
Best Performance(s) by a Duo: We've got my two favorite pairs here.
AMC's Tad & Dixie's heavenly reunion - I enjoyed this so much. Michael E. Knight and Cady McClain are wonderful together, and seeing just the two of them in all their scenes was a real treat. It was bittersweet to watch what Tad & Dixie's life could have been like raising their daughter, Kate. All of their scenes were touching; Michael and Cady are still magical together. It was sad to see them letting each other go at the end. Their goodbye was painful, and we need Dixie back alive & Cady back full-time.
GL's Gus & Harley's farewell - This time I'm talking about their real goodbye in the hospital before Gus had (unsuccessful) surgery. Gus laid there in the hospital bed connected to machines and stuff. Harley came in to see him, and they had some sweet words. When it was time for him to go into surgery, Harley realized that he most likely won't make it. And they said the most beautiful, heartbreaking words... Harley: "...You're the love of my life forever and ever and ever and ever, okay..." Gus: "...You're the love of my life too." Ricky Paull Goldin and Beth Ehlers had the magic again!
Worst Couple: Aiden & Greenlee (AMC) - Yuck, yuck, yuck! It's not the actors faults, but they just don't have any chemistry. Aiden & Greenlee were together most of the year, and I couldn't stand them. They're just not good together. And Greenlee was too wishy-washy when she was happy with him.
Paul & Meg (ATWT) - I only saw the show once this year, and this pair was on. They were boring as hell! They were boring when I was watching over a year ago. And I've heard nothing but dislike from the Daytime Confidential podcast. Paul and Meg are completely BORING together!
Best Couple: Rex & Gigi (OLTL) - This is a repeat choice from "Version 1". To keep it short, I love them. They have so much chemistry. I was rooting for them through all their obstacles. They are electric and adorable and so in love. I enjoy seeing them be a family with Shane.
Bianca & Reese (AMC) - The writing for them is terrible, and I hate that Reese is teetering on the bisexual realm. The reason they're a "best couple" is because they're so loving together. I love their hugging, kissing, and other affections. It's also refreshing to see a gay couple with a baby and plans to get married. And it was nice to see Bianca happy.
Character You Originally Liked But Ended Up Hating: This was extremely tough because I don't really hate anyone. I choose AMC's Colby Chandler simply because she was recasted. Amber Childers started out as a bratty Colby, but she improved so much. I began liking her, and I don't understand why she was let go. Brianne Moncrief took over as Colby, and she can't act. Colby is a bore, and I can't stand watching her.
Character You Originally Hated But Ended Up Liking: Lizzie Spaulding (GL) - I had always hated Lizzie, with both Crystal Hunt & Marcy Rylan portraying her. She was such a spoiled brat. And I understand that THAT is who she was, but it was annoying. By having a child, though, Lizzie grew up. I completely understand now how pivotal a character she is. When I do watch GL, I enjoy seeing her. She's especially good with Bill.
Worst Storyline: Besides GL's Gus and Harley's horribly separate triangles (explained in "Version 1"), there was GH's text-message killer. There was no point to this, and it seemed to last too long. Characters were killed that shouldn't have been (IE: Georgie, Emily). To make it worse was the killer's reveal - Diego Alcazar. It made no sense why he would murder people, and he wasn't someone people cared much about.
Best Storyline: Besides GH Night Shift's Robert's colon cancer (explained in "Version 1"), Starr's pregnancy on OLTL was groundbreaking and remarkable. OLTL fans have watched Starr grow up with the same actress, Kristen Alderson, portraying her. Seeing her have sex for the first time and learn she was pregnant were startling. It made for great story because it was still Kristen in the role. TPTB could have taken the easy way out, but instead we endured a full 9-month pregnancy right along with Starr. Each step brought amazing scenes for every teenager & parent to see.
Worst-Written Soap: Guiding Light - I have heard that it improved over the past year. I believe it. But the beginning of the year was a tragedy. Josh and Cassie were still together, and Josh became a minister. Gus and Harley were literally kept separated from each other. Harley stole Marina's boyfriend. Rafe & Daisy were boring. Olivia had a secret heart disease. Sometimes there wasn't any talking in scenes, and a lot of scenes had people doing nothing. Having four head writers doesn't help.
Best-Written Soap: One Life To Live - Everything seamed together... There were compelling stories, witty dialogue, character-driven actions, amazing scenes, etc. The writing has been the best I've ever seen. Everything made sense this past year, even the Todd/Marty story, which made more sense with the fall-out. Even though the Mendorra and 1968 stories weren't loved by all, I believe they still kept all fans hooked. It was a semi-perfect year for Ron Carlivati's writing team.
Best Recast: Ricky Paull Goldin as AMC's Jake Martin - Jake was always a pretty boring, listless character in my opinion. Ricky Paull has put spark into Jake and just shines in the role. Ricky is a refreshing addition to AMC and has such a wonderful energy about him. He has made Jake his own already and has chemistry with everyone. Love him as Jake!
Worst Recast: Brianne Moncrief as AMC's Colby Chandler - Like I said earlier, I do not understand WHY Colby was recasted. Amber Childers grew into the role and improved as an actress. Colcy became someone to root for. WHY recast her? Colby has been dumbed down and is pointless since Brianne took over. Brianne can't act and can put you to sleep. She should be let go to take acting lessons.
Over-The-Top Acting: Laura Wright (Carly, GH) - I love her as Carly, and I had a tough time with this category. But there were times over the course of 2008 that Carly was annoying. So many times was Carly/Laura yelling at whoever she was talking to (Jason, Sonny, Jax, Kate, etc). Yikes! She needs to take it down a notch sometimes. I understand the fire in Carly, but she doesn't need to be screaming all the time.
Worst Decision made by an Executive Producer: Ellen Wheeler changing GL's production model - In February 2008 all scenes became filmed using cheap hand-held cameras in real houses & buildings at Peapack, NJ. At first the cameras were up in the actors' faces too much, but it has improved. However, I still do not think the production should have changed. It hasn't helped save the show, and the sets are poor. GL doesn't even look like a soap anymore.
Best Decision made by an Executive Producer: AMC's TPTB snatching up Ricky Paull Goldin - One week I was reading about him leaving GL, and the next I was reading about him joining AMC as Jake. Great move on AMC's part because Ricky is such an amazing actor. He's doing a wonderful job as Jake. AMC's executives made a smart decision even if it was to stick it to Procter & Gamble and Barabara Bloom (president of CBS daytime).
Best Breaking News: Andrea Evans' return to OLTL - This is a personal favorite of mine; I couldn't think of something that affected the whole soap world. I had been wanting Andrea Evans' to return for a while, and with the cancellation of Passions I had hope. I was excited about the news of her return, and it was a major thing for her to go back to her old soap stomping ground. The reason she left was because she had a stalker. She obviously dealt with that, and she was ready to play Tina again. Every moment of Tina was enjoyable even though her story wasn't up to par.
Worst Breaking News: Drake Hogestyn & Deidre Hall fired from DAYS - John and Marlena is Days Of Our Lives best supercouple. Every soap fan near & far know who they are. Everyone knows who Drake & Deidre are. I've never been a regular viewer/fan of DAYS, and I know how huge they are! It was shocking to read that they were fired. FIRED! This is terrible because it's something that rocks the entire soap world. It means that no one is safe from being axed, and DAYS could eventually be canceled. Two major stars fired brings consequences.
Worst Performance by an Actress: Justis Bolding (Sarah, OLTL) - I like her, and I think she's a better Sarah than the previous one (when Sarah went by Flash). Here's the "but": when Christian suddenly spotted Sarah from an airplane after she had gone over a waterfall, she wasn't very traumatized. Justis hardly acted at all. She did not do a good job playing someone who had a terrifying, life-and-death experience. Sarah looked fine, and acted like she was simply lost in the woods.
Worst Performance by an Actor: Aidan Turner (Aiden, AMC) - He's bad pretty much all the time. I can't stand him or his accent. You can't understand him half the time. His lines come off as gibberish sometimes because of his thick accent. And I don't see the need for him on AMC anymore; Aiden's just a pointless character.
Most Irritating Couple: OLTL's Tess Brennan - She's was great her first time around, but this second time she became so annoying. She was all about getting back at Natalie & Jared for Nash dying. And it just lasted a bit too long. It's like she was all talk and no action. Natalie was in the secret room FOREVER before Tess had that bomb to kill her. Also, Tess seemed to complain and yell all the time. So annoying!
GH's Jerry Jax - I NEVER liked him, and I NEVER bought that he was the real Jerry Jax. He did horrible things to people throughout his whole time on the show. And yet he romanced Alexis , the District Attorney & my favorite character, while STILL being a criminal. He was annoying because he never paid for his crimes, and I didn't care for his accent.
Worst New Character: OLTL's Vanessa - Can't stand her at all! She is so irritating and terrible to watch. I don't like her with Christian. They don't have any chemistry, and she practically stole him from Sarah. I don't care about her, especially since we're discovering that she killed Lola's mother instead of Ray. Hopefully, she's on her way out of town soon.
Best New Character: AMC's Taylor Thompson - This is obviously a biased choice because I LOVE Beth Ehlers. I really do enjoy Taylor, though, because she's so unlike the other females on the show. She isn't glamorous. She's her own tough person, and she really knows how to defend herself. She's a breath of fresh air. I'm eager to see her interact with more characters and become central to the show.
GH's Olivia Falconeri - What spunk she has! I was glad GH finally decided to explain who Olivia is, but I wasn't quite ready for another new character. That feeling didn't last long, though. I've enjoyed Olivia since day one just like her cousin, Kate Howard, when she first arrived. And the two of them together are explosive! Olivia is a force to be reckoned with. GH has found gold in Lisa LoCicero.
Worst Character: Natalia Rivera (GL) - I believe with this category I didn't feel like thinking too much, so I took the easy way out. Choosing Natalia is a total personal bias because she helped keep my favorite couple, Gus & Harley, apart. And that was only the beginning of the year; she might have improved now. But at the time I could not stand the sight of her. She was somewhat annoying, and I never accepted her with Gus. I wish she never came to town.
Best Character: Jake Martin (AMC) - Yum, yum, yum! I've enjoyed every moment of him because Ricky Paull Goldin is SO GOOD! So freakin' brilliant! Jake has chemistry with everyone he talks to. He's adorable with Taylor, Tad, and Frankie. He has so much potential and is a ton of fun to watch. He was such a treat in 2008.
Nora Buchanan (OLTL) - I've enjoyed her throughout the past year too. She had so many great scenes with Bo, Clint, Dorian, Tea, Cole, etc. Hilary B. Smith hits it out of the park every time. Nora's tough, funny, smart, and just plain wonderful. I'm so glad she finally got some storyline again.
Best Special Episode: OLTL's 40th anniversary - Two shows of Viki in heaven (again) and Dorian being "haunted" by Mel. It was all amazing! Viki encountered her niece, Megan (played by Erin Torpey, ex-Jessica), Asa, Ben, and "God" - Agnes Nixon (OLTL's creator). It was an emotional, poignant journey. Meanwhile, Mel had to coax Dorian into bringing Viki back to life, and their scenes made me remember how great they are together. And the Rex/Bo 1968 story began as well, which was hilarious.
AMC's tribute to Eileen Herle/Myrtle Fargate - Simply beautiful! Myrtle was a matriarch of the show, and sadly, she died in real life. So, she had to pass away on the show too. In the episode, Myrtle had left gifts for Erica, Opal, Bianca, and Zach that brought numerous flashbacks. People like Amanda, Frankie, and even Kelly Tyler visited Myrtle's Boarding House. And then everyone gathered at Zach's new casino, which was decorated like a carnival in honor of Myrte's circus days. It was a very moving show, and even Agnes Nixon (also AMC's creator) made an appearance.
Best Actor: Robert S. Woods (Bo, OLTL) - He was amazing as always this past year. He deserves an Emmy one of these years. He had scenes with Nora back in January or February in which they hashed out what went wrong with them and why he still can't get over it. He was brilliant. And he stood his ground when confronting Clint and Jared during everything going on with Buchanan Enterprises. He was hilarious with Rex during the 1968 storyline. Robert has a full range of emotions; he never ceases to amaze me.
Best Actress: Susan Haskell (Marty, OLTL) - She wasn't that great when she returned, lying around and falling for Todd. Once Marty discovered Todd's lies, she completely bounced back. Susan stunned me, and she has been phenomenal through the whole "rapemance" fallout. Marty doesn't know who she is, and she hates Todd with a passion. Susan has nailed every scene during Todd's hearing and dealing with everyone Marty doesn't remember (Nora, Cole, Blair, etc). I had no idea how powerful an actress she really is.
Biggest Waste of Talent: Ricky Paull Goldin and Beth Ehlers (Jake and Taylor, AMC) - They both left GL, and ABC snatched them up with every intention of making them a couple. Before Beth arrived, Ricky's Jake was roaming around without much of a story. There was more for him once Taylor came on. Jake & Taylor inched their way closer, but Brot's arrival put a damper on that. And now they're walking around without much to do. For pretty much most of 2008 their story wasn't much. So, two powerful actors are on AMC, and nothing is going on with them. Why bother hiring them at all if you're not going to use them?
Worst Special Effects: All My Children's Tornado - It was cheesy; it just didn't look real enough. You could tell by the actors and sets that the dark skies & tornadoes weren't really there. The tornado chasing Zach's car looked cool, but overall, the tornado stuff did not work well. And I didn't really care about The Comeback Bar's damage (Babe's injuries especially).
Best Special Effects: AMC's Jesse/Angie wedding drama - The roof shots with the helicopter were pretty cool. The background buildings and everything seemed real. There was so much great suspense surrounding these effects. I cared about what was going on with Jesse, Angie, Tad, Jake, and Rob Gardner. And Darnell Williams/Jesse looked awesome leaping over the building to reach the helicopter.
Best Soap: One Life To Live - It has it all: writing, acting, sets, music, etc. Everything is working and meshing well together on that show. Kudos to the wonderful actors, head writer Ron Carlivati, and exec producer Frank Valentini. Check out "Version 1" for further explanation.
Worst Soap: All My Children - It has phenomenal actors, but they're not being used right. We have a bunch of choppy storylines. And I think it's sinking fast! Kudos to exec producer Julie Hanan Carruthers and head writer Chuck Pratt Jr to wrecking & bringing this show down. Check out "Version 1" for further explanation.
Best New Actor/Actress: Mark Lawson (Brody, OLTL) - He is awesome! OLTL found brilliance with him. I was worried about him coming on because he would be another obstacle for Rex & Gigi. But he caught on quick. Brody is a great complex character that meshes so well with Rex, Gigi, Adrianna, and most recently Jessica. He proved to be a fascinating obstacle for Rex & Gigi with his Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Mark brings it to the table in every scene, and I hope he sticks around.
Best Actor in a New Role on Another Soap: Jason Cook (Matt, GH) - This one was tough because there aren't too many actors playing new roles on my shows. So, Jason Cook gets it because Matt has become a likable guy and Jason is working his way into GH well. I saw him a little on Days Of Our Lives, so I knew he's a good actor. I was worried about TPTB throwing Matt with Maxie right away. Thank God that didn't happen, and it's great that he's Patrick's brother. But he needs more story.
Best Actress in a New Role on Another Soap: Tamara Braun (Reese, AMC) - I love her from her GH years, so I knew it would be a treat to watch her again. I'm thrilled she's on AMC playing Bianca's love interest. Tamara plays the hell out of this role, and I buy her as a bisexual (since it seems that Reese isn't 100% lesbian). She clicks with this cast. I enjoy her scenes with Erica, Zach, and whoever else she's with. Reese/Tamara is someone to watch.
Most Shocking Plot Twist: Tea defending Todd (OLTL) - This is a personal shock. Obviously, it's not a major shock (like Bess stealing Starr's baby), but it made my mouth drop. I knew that Tea would be returning in December, and I'm sure it's just a short stint. I didn't know WHY she was returning, and I was hoping she wouldn't interact too much with Trever St. John (the Todd recast). To my surprise she was (sort of) back to DEFEND Todd against the charges of raping Marty again. I did not think that ANYONE would be on Todd's side in this case. So, the fact that Tea is blew my mind.
Sluttiest Male: Cyrus Foley (GL) - He went from Marina to her aunt Harley FAST, and at one point he was kind of with both of them at the same time. He cheated on Harley with her best friend Cassie. He went from Marina to Harley to Cassie within just a couple months. He really knows how to get around, doesn't he?
Sluttiest Female: Amanda Dillon (AMC) - This goes along with the Glittery Hoo Hoo category in "Version 1". Amanda was with Jake, then David, and then JR. She moves fast. She dated Jake for about two months. After that, she tangled dangerously with David. She got very close to JR thanks to her deal with David. So, she's the best fit for this category.
Best Guest Performance(s): Stephen Markle (Mel, OLTL) - His return for the OLTL 40th anniversary episodes was brilliant. Mel has been gone a long time, and I had forgotten how much spark he has with Dorian. The two of them are such a treat. Mel only had scenes with Dorian, and they were the comic relief of those episodes as Viki had her emotional journey in heaven. Mel is sorely missed, and Stephen truly brought it during the 40th anniversary.
Agnes Nixon (AMC & OLTL) - We fans were spoiled the past year! Agnes, the creator of All My Children and One Life To Live, appeared on both shows! She was a lovely, graceful gem on both of them too. On OLTL she played herself in the 40th anniversary episodes, acting as God in Viki's heavenly trip. She was the icing on the cake out of everyone in heaven. On AMC after the tornado drama she played Aggie, a ghostly figure carrying around a book & acting as if she founded the town (or something like that). She was a strong presence on both shows and did a phenomenal job.
Best Performance(s) by a Vet Who Never Gets a Story: Catherine Hickland (Lindsay, OLTL) - She is one of the best. She was riveting when we finally learned that Lindsay killed Spencer Truman. Catherine brought her all during the murdering flashbacks and when everyone found out Lindsay did it. It was when Lindsay accepted The Woman of the Year award, and you know that couldn't go on without a hook. Catherine again never ceased to amaze me.
Leslie Charleson & Stuart Damon (Monica & Alan, GH) - During GH's special Christmas episode a gift was left for Monica: a pair of glasses that she never wanted to wear. She had bickered with Alan in the past about them. When she put them on, she could see Alan. Of course, he's been around for a while, but Monica could never see or hear him. Christmas magically brought them together again, and it was moving for all Quartermaine fans. Kudos to Leslie and Stuart for showing one reason why Alan should never have been killed off in the first place.
Worst Business Story: Anything involving Fusion (AMC) - This business has gone down the tubes. No one cares about Fusion anymore. With Kendall & Greenlee running it again last year, there was NO work being done. All I saw was snacking and ugly pole-dancing. When Erica took over, the whole place became a horribly bright white. At least she's trying to get some work done, but it still isn't interesting.
Best Business Story: The Buchanan Enterprises takeover (OLTL) - This was too good! This was the climax to the Jared-pretending-to-be-a-Buchanan story. We knew Dorian was plotting something since she discovered Jared's fraud, and we knew how much turmoil the Buchanan family would endure once they knew the truth. So, in grand fashion at a major benefit Dorian announced her takeover of BE and that Jared was really Charlie's son. What a bang!
Best Actor who has too much Material to Juggle & Makes it all Look Good: Trever St. John (Todd, OLTL) - He had a TON of material in 2008 with Starr's pregnancy and the rapemance with Marty. The rapemance fallout brought a lot too. Trever nailed it out of the park in every scene. He did not make romancing Marty look good, but everything else was fabulous to watch. The way Todd dealt with Starr, Cole and everyone during the Marty fallout - you couldn't not watch. Trever is powerful.
Best Actress who has too much Material to Juggle and Makes it all Look Good: Kirsten Storms (Maxie, GH) - She was on almost every single day, or so it seemed, last year. She may not have had huge storylines, but she had tons of material. She's usually a joy to watch. Maxie has so much spunk and energy, just like a regular young adult. She's fast-talking, social, and a busy bee. She's everywhere with (almost) everyone. And Kirsten makes it all good. You can't help but love her.
Best Goody Two-Shoes Character Showing a Backbone: GL's Marina Cooper - During the triangle with Cyrus and Aunt Harley, I believe it was Cyrus who told her about his feelings for & sleeping with Harley. Marina had been a pretty weak, sappy character with Mandy Bruno portraying her. But she finally got some toughness in her when she was face-to-face with Harley. Marina wasn't about to go soft on her. She railed Harley and tore her down. Mandy finally showed some powerful acting, and Marina showed that she can truly defend herself & get angry at someone.
Best Socially Conscious Effort: Starr's pregnancy (OLTL) - As explained in the "Best Storyline" category, Starr was pregnant a full 9 months. The writers displayed every step of her pregnancy and what she was feeling. She was only 16, and this baby changed her life forever. OLTL made a real effort to reach out to teenagers & parents and educate them. Kristen Alderson kept a blog each week, writing about happenings in the story and encouraging teens & parents to communicate with each other about sex. OLTL told a teen pregnancy story without preaching what the "right" choice is; they showed multiple sides of the situation. And they pulled it off wonderfully.
2.20.2009
1.17.2009
Best & Worst of 2008 (Version 1)
Daytime Confidential recently did an extra-long episode in which they discussed the best and worst of 2008 in soaps. It was their third annual edition of this type of show. It was a very entertaining episode, and they had a bunch of different categories to make you reflect on the past year.
You can find the episode here: Best & Worst Supersized
I followed along with the show, making my own choices, and sometimes it was tough to decide. So, this entry contains all of my picks. Some of them are typical for me, and others are ones that a bunch of soap fans would agree on. And I'll warn you now: this is pretty ABC-soap-heavy. Also, some of these categories are...unique to say the least. They all came from Daytime Confidential!
Most Improved Actor: Brandon Buddy (Cole, OLTL) - I had a tough time thinking about who improved over the year because I don't find myself very good at detecting improvement. I choose Brandon Buddy because he has definitely grown as an actor since he started on the show. I don't think there was much to him at the beginning of 2008, but through the pregnancy story he was amazing. He came into his own and shined against the great Trever St. John (Todd) and Kristen Alderson (Starr).
Most Improved Actress: Melissa Claire Egan (Annie, AMC) - Annie was always a dull character that had no purpose except for being attached to Ryan. I never liked Annie, and I didn't like Melissa too much either. I've chosen her because over the course of this year Annie has gone absolutely crazy. And Melissa is doing a heck of a job portraying InsAnnie. She has me believing 100% that Annie is so far gone.
Most Improved Male Character: AMC's Jake Martin - He was always a dull supporting character when the previous two actors played him. Now that Ricky Paull Goldin has stepped into the role, Jake is a vibrant, hunky, & entertaining character. Ricky has made the role his own, and he is excelling in all his scenes. I'm really rooting for Jake in work and love and everything.
Most Improved Female Character: OLTL's Adrianna Cramer - She was a boring character too for the longest time. But when she returned from Paris, France about the beginning of the year, she had spunk & edge. She had gotten her groove back or something. And she was ready to kick Gigi's ass and claim Rex as hers. She was "Bitchy Bangs" as the Daytime Confidential crew call her, and she became a much more dynamic character.
Biggest Waste of Male Talent: Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake, AMC) - What are they doing with him? Practically NOTHING! When Ricky joined the show, we fans were promised a story of what happened to Jake while he was in Africa. And it took MONTHS to find out that his wife left him for another man. And just like that he seemed to be over it and fell in love with Taylor. So, most of Jake's comeback has been him wandering here, there, and wherever. He hasn't really had a STORY, and he deserves one.
Biggest Waste of Female Talent: TIE - Beth Ehlers (Taylor, AMC) and Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis, GH) - Beth is at the same place as Ricky, sort of. TPTB snatched her up with every intention of pairing her with Ricky's Jake. But that hasn't worked out, and now Taylor's trying to work it out with Brot. But she isn't on much, and there isn't much of a story. Beth is a phenomenal actress, and she deserves more. We're lucky to see Nancy one or twice a week. Where is Alexis? She weaves in and out of stories here and there. Nancy is too good for that. She's one of the best on GH, and she shines in what little scenes she has. She needs much more than just playing mother, aunt, and District Attorney.
Most In Need of a Makeover: Bree Williamson (Jess/Tess/Bess, OLTL) - I had a touch time with this category too. I choose Bree because frankly, I'm tired of her boring, straight, blonde hair. She needs a change. I know that Jessica hasn't been herself and is now at St. Ann's, but at some point she's got to spruce up her hair style or color or something.
Most In Need of a Story: Three-way TIE - Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis, GH), The Quartermaine family of GH, and Catherine Hickland (Lindsay, OLTL) - I'll make this short but sweet... Nancy, as I said earlier, is fabulous, and she continues to have no story. She deserves a big one and win an Emmy for it. The Quartermaines have almost completely disappeared; there are hardly any members left! They are such a core family that needs a revival. Catherine is another phenomenal actress that always comes and goes. And when she's on, you don't have a choice but to watch her. She's someone to admire, and it doesn't make sense that she never has a story anymore.
Best Stunt Casting: Cady McClain (ex-Dixie, AMC) - Here's a little explanation of this category: it includes all of those short-term stints by popular actors/characters and all the small stints of famous celebrities (such as Betty White as Stephanie's mother on B&B). I choose Cady for her two month run as ghost Dixie. I, as well as many fans, want her back full-time and for Dixie to be alive. But what we got in May & June was very entertaining, poignant, and bittersweet. Her scenes were delightful as she haunted Adam, looked in on her family, and reunited in "heaven" with Tad. To top it off, she led Tad to their daughter, Kate (aka Kathy). Perhaps Dixie will return ALIVE someday.
Dreams Really Do Come True: Andrea Evans returns to OLTL - This is something I've been hoping for ever since I learned about Tina from the 30th anniversary book & the OLTL weddings video. She sounded like someone I would like, and I saw Andrea on B&B and Passions a couple times. I knew of her stalker situation from her previous run on OLTL. And yet I never gave up on dreaming of her returning. Summer of 2008 it happened. It got botched up and was too short, but it was worth it to finally see Andrea as Tina.
Be Careful What You Wish For: I came up with two "wishes", but I'll make one of them an honorable mention. Rebecca Budig returning to AMC - I didn't like the fact that TPTB recasted Greenlee. Even though it wasn't the same, Sabine Singh still did a pretty good job. When I heard about Rebecca returning, I was thrilled...only to be disappointed in her storyline. A sparkless relationship with Aiden and now a fast-paced reunion with Ryan. Not great story, in my opinion.
My honorable mention is Beth Ehlers joining All My Children. I wanted that so bad once Ricky Paull Goldin left GL. I thought it was best for Beth to leave as well, all the better if she went to AMC with Ricky. I was so psyched about her playing Taylor, and I've enjoyed her story. BUT before she arrived, I was so hooked on Jake & wanted him with everybody. Seeing Jake and Taylor while she was in the hospital, I began wanting Jake only with Taylor. So, maybe it would be better for me as a Ricky fan if Beth never joined the show. Who knows?
Best Couple: Rex & Gigi (OLTL) - LOVE them! Had no trouble thinking of this one. They have so much spark! From their first scene together, they have had chemistry. And I was rooting for them every step of the way. I enjoyed the whole roller coaster that led them to finally being together. I loved the Gigi/Rex/Adrianna triangle. Throwing Brody into it turned out to be great. I LOVED the 1968 time travel story and Rex getting shot. There was a ton of rooting value, but I will say that they've fizzled out. But even though they're now boring, I still love them.
Honorable Mention: Jared & Natalie (OLTL) - Love them too! They've fizzled as well, and the story with Tess got tiring. Before that, though, they were wonderful. Everything going on with Buchanan Enterprises and Jared faking his paternity - there was so much heat between them! I love that Jared told Natalie the truth and she was in on it for a while. I believe they had rooting value too.
Worst Couple: Greenlee & Aiden (AMC) - Neither Sabine's nor Rebecca's Greenlee had chemistry with Aiden. I find them boring, uninteresting, and lacking a spark. There's nothing there. Their love scenes were nauseating. No offense to the actors, but they just aren't good together. And they got married too quickly. I'm glad they're over. They weren't meant to be.
Honorable Mention: Jack & Carmen (AMC) - They could have been a good couple if AMC showed their relationship develop. Instead, they made no sense at all. All of a sudden they were dating and a couple, and Carmen's friendship with Erica was tainted. What?! I couldn't follow this.
Best Triangle: Cole/Starr/Todd (OLTL) - I had trouble thinking of real triangles, so I came up with this unique one. Todd never like Starr dating Cole, and Starr wanted nothing but to be with Cole. Todd planned to move his family to Hawaii, which led to the teens having sex for the first time. Todd ruined their bliss, and he practically shut Starr from the world. Starr found out she was pregnant and went on the run with Cole. But of course Todd found them. Starr was being pulled in opposite directions with loving Cole & being forced to obey her father. It was great story.
Worst Triangle: Natalia/Gus/Olivia (GL) - This is a personal distaste. Besides being a boring triangle, it's one that didn't make sense. How did Gus become interested in Olivia? And if he had feelings for her, why did he rush into a marriage with Natalia? And to top it all off, how could he be over Harley that fast? I couldn't buy that he was in love with Natalia. I couldn't buy that he had more-than-friendship feelings for Olivia. Harley was the love of Gus's life, and all of a sudden he had two more loves.
Best Quadrangle: Adrianna/Rex/Gigi/Brody (OLTL) - Like I was saying under Best Couple, Rex and Gigi had rooting value, and yet it was genius to have Adrianna and Brody as their obstacles. I really enjoyed the Gigi/Rex/Adrianna situation. You could see that Rex fell out of love with Adrianna, but she was not going to let him go. It was Adrianna vs. Gigi for Rex, or at least it felt that way sometimes. Adding Brody to the mix made it even more frustrating, but it paid off in a big way - Brody shooting Rex and Adrianna finally letting Rex go.
Worst Quadrangle: Annie/Ryan/Greenlee/Aiden/Kendall/Zach (AMC) - It's more than a quad, but it was horrible. This six-angled thing was a total mess throughout most of the year. They hogged the screen too much and just had sucky story with Ryan's amnesia. Ryan was in love with all three women at some point. Greenlee went from Aiden to Ryan real quick and almost had something going with Zach. They were all in each other's business, and I didn't like any of it.
Most Tortured Couple: Jason & Elizabeth (GH) - They had moments this past year. Nothing more. They have NEVER been a real couple. They've never had a true chance at happiness and being together. 2008 - it looked like that could change. But no. They kept their love a secret and failed at making time for each other. What sealed the deal was Jake, their son, being kidnapped by mobsters. And now Elizabeth can't handle Jason's dangerous life...again. I feel bad for their fans.
Worst Storyline: Gus & Harley's separate stories (GL) - This is another personal thing. I already explained my reasons for not liking Gus's triangle with Olivia & Natalia. I kind of liked Harley's triangle with Cyrus & Marina. But what I HATED is that Gus and Harley were ripped at the seams and placed in SEPARATE storylines. It never made ANY sense how quickly they were over each other and how completely separated they became. To this day I can't stand it.
Best Storyline: I've got three for this category. They were all wonderful in their own right...
1) The 1968 time travel story (OLTL) was a ton of fun. I loved it so much, and it lasted a good length. It was funny to see Bo & Rex confused and to see the other characters as characters from the past.
2) Angie & Jesse's return (AMC) was so unexpected. I thought Jesse was dead for good. But low and behold, first Angie was back and then Jesse. Their reunion was magical, and it was like time stood still at that train station.
3) Robert's colon cancer (GH: Night Shift) was a beautiful social issue. It reunited Robert with Robin and Anna as they stood by his side. There were a bunch of tearjerkingly sweet moments. It was written so good and was the best story of both Nigh Shift seasons.
Worst Scene: Anytime Gus kissed Natalia (GL) - Another personal issue since I'm a huge Gus and Harley fan. I couldn't stand Gus with Natalia. It was disgusting to me, and I wasn't use to seeing Gus with anyone but Harley. I never got use to Gus with Natalia. So, every time they kissed, my eyes burned, I got sick to my stomach, and my heart broke a little more.
Best Scene: GL's Gus & Harley's goodbyes (real & fantasy) - Their finale when Gus died was well-written, I believe. It wasn't enough to make up for their destroyed relationship, but it was the best GusH we had gotten in months. So, their last scenes stand out as being the best to me. They had a tearful, heartbreaking goodbye before Gus had surgery & ended up brain-dead. The next day Gus was either a ghost or Harley imagined him, and they had a few short scenes before he went away for good. They said "I love you" for the last time, and it was so lovely.
Honorable Mention: Dorian & Mel's scenes from OLTL's 40th anniversary show - VERY funny! I forgot how wonderful Mel is, and he's so entertaining with Dorian. I think that's my favorite Dorian pairing. They have such a comical yet loving dynamic. Mel came to her as a ghost to get her to save Viki's life, and their scenes were perfection.
Guy Whose Chestnuts we want Roasting over an Open Fire: Chuck Pratt Jr. (AMC's head writer) - He has taken All My Children to a new low level. I thought Megan McTavish was bad, but Chuck's work is not only bad but also very confusing. There is discontinuity and gaping holes and the stories. Since when do Adam & Erica have romantic feelings for one another? How can Jesse have a 19 year-old daughter, meaning he moved on very quickly after leaving Angie? Where's the development in Jake & Taylor's feelings for each other? Why would Zach and Bianca go behind Kendall's back to create a baby? Some of the stories don't make sense, and the others have missing scenes. There's too many holes!
Biggest Ho Ho Ho: Harley Cooper (GL) - I had a tough time with this. For all these categories I wracked my brain with the ABC soaps. But I had to choose Harley simply for stealing Cyrus away from her own niece, Marina. I love Harley dearly, but it wasn't right for her to do that. At first I didn't view it as stealing, but clearly, that is what happened. She got Cyrus for herself, and they totally screwed around behind Marina's back. When their relationship became public, they continued screwing around. Harley must have been in her sexual prime with Cyrus.
Glittery Hoo-Hoo of the Year: Amanda Dillon (AMC) - This category is for the ladies who have a lot of men going after them. And Amanda stands out in my mind as having guys around her, wanting her. She had sex with Jake, David, and JR all within a few months. She can't stay away from sex too long, can she? I know that's only three guys, but I couldn't come up with anyone else.
Magical Penis (MP) of the Year: This category is for the men who have...been around and around some more. It was named after GH's Sonny Corinthos, who has had so many women & children over the years. And he is who I choose. I couldn't think of anyone better. This past year he slept with Kate, Carly, and Claudia. And we know that he father's Olivia's son (yet another child for him). So, he deserves this title.
Most In Need of a Love Interest: This one was tough too, but I believe Annie Lavery needs a NEW love interest when she's sane again. She has been attached to Ryan ever since she arrived on the show, and it has escalated to obsession. I can't take it anymore! She needs to get over Ryan and move on! I here Jake is available.
Most In Need of a Roll in the Hay: I have a tie for this one. Up until a few days ago, Luke & Noah (ATWT) needed to roll around with each other. I haven't regularly watched the show in about two years, but from what I've heard and read Luke & Noah were totally being deprived of kissing & sex. What gives? They're a wonderful, hot couple. Glad that "it" finally happened! My second choice is AMC's Jake Martin. I KNOW he was getting some from Amanda just a couple months ago. But Jake is such a hottie that he should be steaming up the screens in love scenes every week. LOL! So, give him a good love interest that he has chemistry with (like Greenlee).
Dumbest Character: Gus Aitoro (GL) - He is my choice simply for forgetting who his true love is (Harley). It's kind of like he got amnesia or something. How did he get over her so fast and move on with Natalia? His love for his "Coop" was much deeper than his love for Nat. I've seen his love in action, and it really was the deepest love I had ever seen. So, he's dumb for "losing" that part of him and never fighting to get Harley back.
Smartest Character: David Hayward (AMC) - He is charming, swarmy, and highly intelligent. He knows what he's doing, and he's a doctor. He has elaborate schemes, and so far they are working. He has gotten what he wants. He's using Amanda to get JR drunk, showing that JR's a bad father. He wormed his way into Krystal's orbit and now has her in his clutches, so to speak. And he wrecked Tad's life in the process. Who knows what he'll do next, but he is a very crafty fellow.
Scenery Chewer of the Year: Sarah Brown as Claudia Zaachara (GH) - In this category you pick the character you dislike who is on-screen constantly. For me that is Sarah's Claudia. She's on way too much, and she isn't all that enjoyable. Claudia was suppose to be the female equivalent to Sonny, but she isn't. She's annoying and has daddy issues. She's not as strong as I hoped she'd be. But lately I've been liking her. So, maybe things will changethis year.
Excellence in Hair Modeling: Either Natalia or Colby (AMC) - These two characters are pointless, and their portrayers need acting lessons. Sorry to them, but they were hired for their looks. That's how All My Children has been casting young people lately. Looks matter. Both of these characters are boring to watch, and the only thing they have going for them is their hair.
The Megan McTavish Award for Dismantling a Series: I'm choosing Brian Frons just for tearing apart SoapNet. I know that's a network, but it counts. There aren't even soaps on there anymore, and he isn't planning a third season of GH Night Shift. He also doesn't want the Daytime Emmys to be broadcasted on SoapNet or ABC. And he also isn't treating the ABC soaps very well. He just makes bad decisions on who should be shown and who should be paired with who. He isn't being a very good soap president right now, unfortunately, to put it mildly.
Worst Drama: All My Children - It's sinking real fast. I described its main problems when discussing its head writer. AMC has so much gaps and discontinuity. A bunch of things just don't make sense (ie: Adam & Erica, Aiden helping Annie, Jesse's past). Some things were left behind - Jake's pain from what happened in Africa, Carmen, Kathy hating Krystal, Colby & Frankie's friendship, etc. And there are some characters that just aren't clicking with the audience. Basically, AMC is a total mess right now, and it better improve before it's too late.
Best Drama: One Life To Live - It did have an icy patch during the summer with the Marty/Todd "rapemance", but for most of the year it was the perfect soap. Everything clicks together, and its rich history hasn't been forgotten. The stories make sense. The way the characters interact make sense. It has compelling and character-driven plots. It combines humor with drama, and fans love almost every single character, I think. Praise goes to Frank Valentini (executive producer) and Ron Carlivati (head writer) this wonderful show, which includes Starr's pregnancy, the 40th anniversary episodes, David Vickers' returns, the Buchanan Enterprises takeover, Rex finding out he's a dad, Tea's return, and the emotional fallout from the "rapemance".
Honorable Mention: General Hospital Night Shift - It was so well-written. Everything weaved together, and the characters meshed well together. It had, romance, humor, drama, the hospital, explosions, social issues, and everything else. It had gripping stories as it revolved around the hospital. The highlight for me was Robert's colon cancer, which reflected on the history of its main show, General Hospital. It brought past, present, and medicine together nicely.
You can find the episode here: Best & Worst Supersized
I followed along with the show, making my own choices, and sometimes it was tough to decide. So, this entry contains all of my picks. Some of them are typical for me, and others are ones that a bunch of soap fans would agree on. And I'll warn you now: this is pretty ABC-soap-heavy. Also, some of these categories are...unique to say the least. They all came from Daytime Confidential!
Most Improved Actor: Brandon Buddy (Cole, OLTL) - I had a tough time thinking about who improved over the year because I don't find myself very good at detecting improvement. I choose Brandon Buddy because he has definitely grown as an actor since he started on the show. I don't think there was much to him at the beginning of 2008, but through the pregnancy story he was amazing. He came into his own and shined against the great Trever St. John (Todd) and Kristen Alderson (Starr).
Most Improved Actress: Melissa Claire Egan (Annie, AMC) - Annie was always a dull character that had no purpose except for being attached to Ryan. I never liked Annie, and I didn't like Melissa too much either. I've chosen her because over the course of this year Annie has gone absolutely crazy. And Melissa is doing a heck of a job portraying InsAnnie. She has me believing 100% that Annie is so far gone.
Most Improved Male Character: AMC's Jake Martin - He was always a dull supporting character when the previous two actors played him. Now that Ricky Paull Goldin has stepped into the role, Jake is a vibrant, hunky, & entertaining character. Ricky has made the role his own, and he is excelling in all his scenes. I'm really rooting for Jake in work and love and everything.
Most Improved Female Character: OLTL's Adrianna Cramer - She was a boring character too for the longest time. But when she returned from Paris, France about the beginning of the year, she had spunk & edge. She had gotten her groove back or something. And she was ready to kick Gigi's ass and claim Rex as hers. She was "Bitchy Bangs" as the Daytime Confidential crew call her, and she became a much more dynamic character.
Biggest Waste of Male Talent: Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake, AMC) - What are they doing with him? Practically NOTHING! When Ricky joined the show, we fans were promised a story of what happened to Jake while he was in Africa. And it took MONTHS to find out that his wife left him for another man. And just like that he seemed to be over it and fell in love with Taylor. So, most of Jake's comeback has been him wandering here, there, and wherever. He hasn't really had a STORY, and he deserves one.
Biggest Waste of Female Talent: TIE - Beth Ehlers (Taylor, AMC) and Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis, GH) - Beth is at the same place as Ricky, sort of. TPTB snatched her up with every intention of pairing her with Ricky's Jake. But that hasn't worked out, and now Taylor's trying to work it out with Brot. But she isn't on much, and there isn't much of a story. Beth is a phenomenal actress, and she deserves more. We're lucky to see Nancy one or twice a week. Where is Alexis? She weaves in and out of stories here and there. Nancy is too good for that. She's one of the best on GH, and she shines in what little scenes she has. She needs much more than just playing mother, aunt, and District Attorney.
Most In Need of a Makeover: Bree Williamson (Jess/Tess/Bess, OLTL) - I had a touch time with this category too. I choose Bree because frankly, I'm tired of her boring, straight, blonde hair. She needs a change. I know that Jessica hasn't been herself and is now at St. Ann's, but at some point she's got to spruce up her hair style or color or something.
Most In Need of a Story: Three-way TIE - Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis, GH), The Quartermaine family of GH, and Catherine Hickland (Lindsay, OLTL) - I'll make this short but sweet... Nancy, as I said earlier, is fabulous, and she continues to have no story. She deserves a big one and win an Emmy for it. The Quartermaines have almost completely disappeared; there are hardly any members left! They are such a core family that needs a revival. Catherine is another phenomenal actress that always comes and goes. And when she's on, you don't have a choice but to watch her. She's someone to admire, and it doesn't make sense that she never has a story anymore.
Best Stunt Casting: Cady McClain (ex-Dixie, AMC) - Here's a little explanation of this category: it includes all of those short-term stints by popular actors/characters and all the small stints of famous celebrities (such as Betty White as Stephanie's mother on B&B). I choose Cady for her two month run as ghost Dixie. I, as well as many fans, want her back full-time and for Dixie to be alive. But what we got in May & June was very entertaining, poignant, and bittersweet. Her scenes were delightful as she haunted Adam, looked in on her family, and reunited in "heaven" with Tad. To top it off, she led Tad to their daughter, Kate (aka Kathy). Perhaps Dixie will return ALIVE someday.
Dreams Really Do Come True: Andrea Evans returns to OLTL - This is something I've been hoping for ever since I learned about Tina from the 30th anniversary book & the OLTL weddings video. She sounded like someone I would like, and I saw Andrea on B&B and Passions a couple times. I knew of her stalker situation from her previous run on OLTL. And yet I never gave up on dreaming of her returning. Summer of 2008 it happened. It got botched up and was too short, but it was worth it to finally see Andrea as Tina.
Be Careful What You Wish For: I came up with two "wishes", but I'll make one of them an honorable mention. Rebecca Budig returning to AMC - I didn't like the fact that TPTB recasted Greenlee. Even though it wasn't the same, Sabine Singh still did a pretty good job. When I heard about Rebecca returning, I was thrilled...only to be disappointed in her storyline. A sparkless relationship with Aiden and now a fast-paced reunion with Ryan. Not great story, in my opinion.
My honorable mention is Beth Ehlers joining All My Children. I wanted that so bad once Ricky Paull Goldin left GL. I thought it was best for Beth to leave as well, all the better if she went to AMC with Ricky. I was so psyched about her playing Taylor, and I've enjoyed her story. BUT before she arrived, I was so hooked on Jake & wanted him with everybody. Seeing Jake and Taylor while she was in the hospital, I began wanting Jake only with Taylor. So, maybe it would be better for me as a Ricky fan if Beth never joined the show. Who knows?
Best Couple: Rex & Gigi (OLTL) - LOVE them! Had no trouble thinking of this one. They have so much spark! From their first scene together, they have had chemistry. And I was rooting for them every step of the way. I enjoyed the whole roller coaster that led them to finally being together. I loved the Gigi/Rex/Adrianna triangle. Throwing Brody into it turned out to be great. I LOVED the 1968 time travel story and Rex getting shot. There was a ton of rooting value, but I will say that they've fizzled out. But even though they're now boring, I still love them.
Honorable Mention: Jared & Natalie (OLTL) - Love them too! They've fizzled as well, and the story with Tess got tiring. Before that, though, they were wonderful. Everything going on with Buchanan Enterprises and Jared faking his paternity - there was so much heat between them! I love that Jared told Natalie the truth and she was in on it for a while. I believe they had rooting value too.
Worst Couple: Greenlee & Aiden (AMC) - Neither Sabine's nor Rebecca's Greenlee had chemistry with Aiden. I find them boring, uninteresting, and lacking a spark. There's nothing there. Their love scenes were nauseating. No offense to the actors, but they just aren't good together. And they got married too quickly. I'm glad they're over. They weren't meant to be.
Honorable Mention: Jack & Carmen (AMC) - They could have been a good couple if AMC showed their relationship develop. Instead, they made no sense at all. All of a sudden they were dating and a couple, and Carmen's friendship with Erica was tainted. What?! I couldn't follow this.
Best Triangle: Cole/Starr/Todd (OLTL) - I had trouble thinking of real triangles, so I came up with this unique one. Todd never like Starr dating Cole, and Starr wanted nothing but to be with Cole. Todd planned to move his family to Hawaii, which led to the teens having sex for the first time. Todd ruined their bliss, and he practically shut Starr from the world. Starr found out she was pregnant and went on the run with Cole. But of course Todd found them. Starr was being pulled in opposite directions with loving Cole & being forced to obey her father. It was great story.
Worst Triangle: Natalia/Gus/Olivia (GL) - This is a personal distaste. Besides being a boring triangle, it's one that didn't make sense. How did Gus become interested in Olivia? And if he had feelings for her, why did he rush into a marriage with Natalia? And to top it all off, how could he be over Harley that fast? I couldn't buy that he was in love with Natalia. I couldn't buy that he had more-than-friendship feelings for Olivia. Harley was the love of Gus's life, and all of a sudden he had two more loves.
Best Quadrangle: Adrianna/Rex/Gigi/Brody (OLTL) - Like I was saying under Best Couple, Rex and Gigi had rooting value, and yet it was genius to have Adrianna and Brody as their obstacles. I really enjoyed the Gigi/Rex/Adrianna situation. You could see that Rex fell out of love with Adrianna, but she was not going to let him go. It was Adrianna vs. Gigi for Rex, or at least it felt that way sometimes. Adding Brody to the mix made it even more frustrating, but it paid off in a big way - Brody shooting Rex and Adrianna finally letting Rex go.
Worst Quadrangle: Annie/Ryan/Greenlee/Aiden/Kendall/Zach (AMC) - It's more than a quad, but it was horrible. This six-angled thing was a total mess throughout most of the year. They hogged the screen too much and just had sucky story with Ryan's amnesia. Ryan was in love with all three women at some point. Greenlee went from Aiden to Ryan real quick and almost had something going with Zach. They were all in each other's business, and I didn't like any of it.
Most Tortured Couple: Jason & Elizabeth (GH) - They had moments this past year. Nothing more. They have NEVER been a real couple. They've never had a true chance at happiness and being together. 2008 - it looked like that could change. But no. They kept their love a secret and failed at making time for each other. What sealed the deal was Jake, their son, being kidnapped by mobsters. And now Elizabeth can't handle Jason's dangerous life...again. I feel bad for their fans.
Worst Storyline: Gus & Harley's separate stories (GL) - This is another personal thing. I already explained my reasons for not liking Gus's triangle with Olivia & Natalia. I kind of liked Harley's triangle with Cyrus & Marina. But what I HATED is that Gus and Harley were ripped at the seams and placed in SEPARATE storylines. It never made ANY sense how quickly they were over each other and how completely separated they became. To this day I can't stand it.
Best Storyline: I've got three for this category. They were all wonderful in their own right...
1) The 1968 time travel story (OLTL) was a ton of fun. I loved it so much, and it lasted a good length. It was funny to see Bo & Rex confused and to see the other characters as characters from the past.
2) Angie & Jesse's return (AMC) was so unexpected. I thought Jesse was dead for good. But low and behold, first Angie was back and then Jesse. Their reunion was magical, and it was like time stood still at that train station.
3) Robert's colon cancer (GH: Night Shift) was a beautiful social issue. It reunited Robert with Robin and Anna as they stood by his side. There were a bunch of tearjerkingly sweet moments. It was written so good and was the best story of both Nigh Shift seasons.
Worst Scene: Anytime Gus kissed Natalia (GL) - Another personal issue since I'm a huge Gus and Harley fan. I couldn't stand Gus with Natalia. It was disgusting to me, and I wasn't use to seeing Gus with anyone but Harley. I never got use to Gus with Natalia. So, every time they kissed, my eyes burned, I got sick to my stomach, and my heart broke a little more.
Best Scene: GL's Gus & Harley's goodbyes (real & fantasy) - Their finale when Gus died was well-written, I believe. It wasn't enough to make up for their destroyed relationship, but it was the best GusH we had gotten in months. So, their last scenes stand out as being the best to me. They had a tearful, heartbreaking goodbye before Gus had surgery & ended up brain-dead. The next day Gus was either a ghost or Harley imagined him, and they had a few short scenes before he went away for good. They said "I love you" for the last time, and it was so lovely.
Honorable Mention: Dorian & Mel's scenes from OLTL's 40th anniversary show - VERY funny! I forgot how wonderful Mel is, and he's so entertaining with Dorian. I think that's my favorite Dorian pairing. They have such a comical yet loving dynamic. Mel came to her as a ghost to get her to save Viki's life, and their scenes were perfection.
Guy Whose Chestnuts we want Roasting over an Open Fire: Chuck Pratt Jr. (AMC's head writer) - He has taken All My Children to a new low level. I thought Megan McTavish was bad, but Chuck's work is not only bad but also very confusing. There is discontinuity and gaping holes and the stories. Since when do Adam & Erica have romantic feelings for one another? How can Jesse have a 19 year-old daughter, meaning he moved on very quickly after leaving Angie? Where's the development in Jake & Taylor's feelings for each other? Why would Zach and Bianca go behind Kendall's back to create a baby? Some of the stories don't make sense, and the others have missing scenes. There's too many holes!
Biggest Ho Ho Ho: Harley Cooper (GL) - I had a tough time with this. For all these categories I wracked my brain with the ABC soaps. But I had to choose Harley simply for stealing Cyrus away from her own niece, Marina. I love Harley dearly, but it wasn't right for her to do that. At first I didn't view it as stealing, but clearly, that is what happened. She got Cyrus for herself, and they totally screwed around behind Marina's back. When their relationship became public, they continued screwing around. Harley must have been in her sexual prime with Cyrus.
Glittery Hoo-Hoo of the Year: Amanda Dillon (AMC) - This category is for the ladies who have a lot of men going after them. And Amanda stands out in my mind as having guys around her, wanting her. She had sex with Jake, David, and JR all within a few months. She can't stay away from sex too long, can she? I know that's only three guys, but I couldn't come up with anyone else.
Magical Penis (MP) of the Year: This category is for the men who have...been around and around some more. It was named after GH's Sonny Corinthos, who has had so many women & children over the years. And he is who I choose. I couldn't think of anyone better. This past year he slept with Kate, Carly, and Claudia. And we know that he father's Olivia's son (yet another child for him). So, he deserves this title.
Most In Need of a Love Interest: This one was tough too, but I believe Annie Lavery needs a NEW love interest when she's sane again. She has been attached to Ryan ever since she arrived on the show, and it has escalated to obsession. I can't take it anymore! She needs to get over Ryan and move on! I here Jake is available.
Most In Need of a Roll in the Hay: I have a tie for this one. Up until a few days ago, Luke & Noah (ATWT) needed to roll around with each other. I haven't regularly watched the show in about two years, but from what I've heard and read Luke & Noah were totally being deprived of kissing & sex. What gives? They're a wonderful, hot couple. Glad that "it" finally happened! My second choice is AMC's Jake Martin. I KNOW he was getting some from Amanda just a couple months ago. But Jake is such a hottie that he should be steaming up the screens in love scenes every week. LOL! So, give him a good love interest that he has chemistry with (like Greenlee).
Dumbest Character: Gus Aitoro (GL) - He is my choice simply for forgetting who his true love is (Harley). It's kind of like he got amnesia or something. How did he get over her so fast and move on with Natalia? His love for his "Coop" was much deeper than his love for Nat. I've seen his love in action, and it really was the deepest love I had ever seen. So, he's dumb for "losing" that part of him and never fighting to get Harley back.
Smartest Character: David Hayward (AMC) - He is charming, swarmy, and highly intelligent. He knows what he's doing, and he's a doctor. He has elaborate schemes, and so far they are working. He has gotten what he wants. He's using Amanda to get JR drunk, showing that JR's a bad father. He wormed his way into Krystal's orbit and now has her in his clutches, so to speak. And he wrecked Tad's life in the process. Who knows what he'll do next, but he is a very crafty fellow.
Scenery Chewer of the Year: Sarah Brown as Claudia Zaachara (GH) - In this category you pick the character you dislike who is on-screen constantly. For me that is Sarah's Claudia. She's on way too much, and she isn't all that enjoyable. Claudia was suppose to be the female equivalent to Sonny, but she isn't. She's annoying and has daddy issues. She's not as strong as I hoped she'd be. But lately I've been liking her. So, maybe things will changethis year.
Excellence in Hair Modeling: Either Natalia or Colby (AMC) - These two characters are pointless, and their portrayers need acting lessons. Sorry to them, but they were hired for their looks. That's how All My Children has been casting young people lately. Looks matter. Both of these characters are boring to watch, and the only thing they have going for them is their hair.
The Megan McTavish Award for Dismantling a Series: I'm choosing Brian Frons just for tearing apart SoapNet. I know that's a network, but it counts. There aren't even soaps on there anymore, and he isn't planning a third season of GH Night Shift. He also doesn't want the Daytime Emmys to be broadcasted on SoapNet or ABC. And he also isn't treating the ABC soaps very well. He just makes bad decisions on who should be shown and who should be paired with who. He isn't being a very good soap president right now, unfortunately, to put it mildly.
Worst Drama: All My Children - It's sinking real fast. I described its main problems when discussing its head writer. AMC has so much gaps and discontinuity. A bunch of things just don't make sense (ie: Adam & Erica, Aiden helping Annie, Jesse's past). Some things were left behind - Jake's pain from what happened in Africa, Carmen, Kathy hating Krystal, Colby & Frankie's friendship, etc. And there are some characters that just aren't clicking with the audience. Basically, AMC is a total mess right now, and it better improve before it's too late.
Best Drama: One Life To Live - It did have an icy patch during the summer with the Marty/Todd "rapemance", but for most of the year it was the perfect soap. Everything clicks together, and its rich history hasn't been forgotten. The stories make sense. The way the characters interact make sense. It has compelling and character-driven plots. It combines humor with drama, and fans love almost every single character, I think. Praise goes to Frank Valentini (executive producer) and Ron Carlivati (head writer) this wonderful show, which includes Starr's pregnancy, the 40th anniversary episodes, David Vickers' returns, the Buchanan Enterprises takeover, Rex finding out he's a dad, Tea's return, and the emotional fallout from the "rapemance".
Honorable Mention: General Hospital Night Shift - It was so well-written. Everything weaved together, and the characters meshed well together. It had, romance, humor, drama, the hospital, explosions, social issues, and everything else. It had gripping stories as it revolved around the hospital. The highlight for me was Robert's colon cancer, which reflected on the history of its main show, General Hospital. It brought past, present, and medicine together nicely.
8.28.2008
Improve OLTL
Daytime Confidential has been doing a series of podcasts discussing all kinds of ways to improve our soap operas. There is or will be one LONG episode for each soap. Luke and the gang discuss production, writing, diversity, core families/characters/couples, etc. They also read responses from listeners sent via e-mail, the blog, or the TVFanOnline Forums. So far Bold & Beautiful, All My Children, General Hospital, Young & Restless, Guiding Light, and Days Of Out Lives are covered. I believe One Life To Live is next. Yesterday I posted a response on the blog, and I'm sharing it here. Enjoy and feel free to share your own ideas.
Head to http://www.daytimeconfidential.com to check out the entire blog and find every episode of the Daytime Confidential podcast.
10 Ways to Improve OLTL
One Life To Live has been pretty amazing since last year with Asa's death. I always look forward to watching it. But...the past few months definitely haven't been perfect (especially Marty's return). Having said that, here are my 10 improvement ideas:
10 - Show more Langston and Markko. There's more to them than just being friends and advisers to Starr & Cole.
9 - Reunite Viki and Charlie. Have them grow old together. Viki needs to settle down with Charlie and stop getting new love interests. They could be the Joe & Ruth of OLTL as long as Viki's feud with Dorian never gets watered down.
8 - Make Bo the police commissioner again. Ramsey was a terrible one, and John's not fit for the job.
7 - Carlo should follow Talia and the gang back to Llanview to wreck more havoc on the town.
6 - Kill off John McBain. He is super boring and a total waste of screen time. No one but Michael & Marcie will miss him.
5 - Let Tess have her revenge on Jared & Natalie already so that we can move on and have everyone know Tess is back.
4 - More and more RJ! He needs to be front & center and get into some trouble with the law. Or give him another club to run.
3 - Bring back Cord permanently and slowly lead him back to Tina.
2 - Reunite Bo & Nora! A Nora/Bo/Lindsay triangle would be good, though.
1 - If John isn't killed, then at least break up him & Blair and don't let Marty fall in love with Todd. That's all wrong! I don't understand Todd's motivation to hide Marty and feed her false information. Marty's return needs to be fixed! And she needs to be reunited with her son Cole.
Head to http://www.daytimeconfidential.com to check out the entire blog and find every episode of the Daytime Confidential podcast.
10 Ways to Improve OLTL
One Life To Live has been pretty amazing since last year with Asa's death. I always look forward to watching it. But...the past few months definitely haven't been perfect (especially Marty's return). Having said that, here are my 10 improvement ideas:
10 - Show more Langston and Markko. There's more to them than just being friends and advisers to Starr & Cole.
9 - Reunite Viki and Charlie. Have them grow old together. Viki needs to settle down with Charlie and stop getting new love interests. They could be the Joe & Ruth of OLTL as long as Viki's feud with Dorian never gets watered down.
8 - Make Bo the police commissioner again. Ramsey was a terrible one, and John's not fit for the job.
7 - Carlo should follow Talia and the gang back to Llanview to wreck more havoc on the town.
6 - Kill off John McBain. He is super boring and a total waste of screen time. No one but Michael & Marcie will miss him.
5 - Let Tess have her revenge on Jared & Natalie already so that we can move on and have everyone know Tess is back.
4 - More and more RJ! He needs to be front & center and get into some trouble with the law. Or give him another club to run.
3 - Bring back Cord permanently and slowly lead him back to Tina.
2 - Reunite Bo & Nora! A Nora/Bo/Lindsay triangle would be good, though.
1 - If John isn't killed, then at least break up him & Blair and don't let Marty fall in love with Todd. That's all wrong! I don't understand Todd's motivation to hide Marty and feed her false information. Marty's return needs to be fixed! And she needs to be reunited with her son Cole.
8.22.2008
HOT Summer Couples
This is a bit informal this time, and each write-up is on the short side. I wrote this as a response in the TVFanOnline Forums. You can read the entire thread here: http://forums.tvfanonline.com/index.php?showtopic=9773
Top 5 Sexy Summer Couples
5. OLTL's Antonio & Talia - Granted they're not together at the moment and their adventure in Mendorra was a lot for them to endure. (Also, I had a difficult time creating this list.) BUT they have so much heat when they are together. A few months ago when it was revealed their break-up was just a ruse, they kissed outdoors near that boat and WOW! And when they got it on at the nightclub (Ultra Violet or Capricorn?), they blew me away. It took me a while to see their chemistry, but now I do, and they are very sexy together.
4. OLTL's Rex & Gigi - From DAY ONE they have oozed chemistry. They've longed for each other for months. Every time they looked at each other, I saw that longing. And it's really sexy. I've been waiting for them to finally be together. After Gigi found Rex in 1968 and they admitted their feelings & everything, they finally kissed. It was a kiss fans have been waiting for, and it was just so hot and passionate. I believe their first love scene will be steamy because the sex between Rex/Bo and Emma was, proving that J.P Lavoisier and Farah Fath make one sexy couple.
3. GH's Alexis & Jerry - It took months for me to realize the steam these two have together, but it is there. Every kiss, touch, and look they share is HOT. Alexis's denial of wanting to be with him just made them hotter. I'm glad she finally gave in because sex is something she was needing, LOL. However, I don't want them together for the long haul; Jerry is completely wrong for Alexis. I can't buy that they have real feelings for each other. So, if they just have this sizzling casual affair, then I'm happy.
2. OLTL's Jared & Natalie - They've cooled off this summer, but before then...WOW! I recall they were pretty hot before Jared's Buchanan fraud. You could see the chemistry and tell they had the hots for each other. During the fake uncle/niece thing, it was icky. But when Jared told Natalie the truth, the heat picked up again. The sexual tension was always there, though. They were very sexy when they revealed their true feelings and made love for the first time. What a love scene! And then all the sneaking around...very wrong but very hot. They did have two recent bed scenes, so maybe their heat is rising again.
1. AMC's Jake and ANYONE - Jake in the form of Ricky Paull Goldin is SO HOT. He is sexy in every scene he's in. He has unique chemistry with everyone - family, friends, bromances, potential love interests, etc. I just love watching him. He's such a joy to watch. I think Jake would be great with Amanda, Greenlee, or Taylor. And unfortunately it has taken months for him to even be put with someone. At this point I don't care who he dates or whatever. I just want to see his sexy side. I want to see him in a steamy love scene. He is a hot doctor; all he needs to do is take his pick. I bet any woman would have him. Taylor wants him, but she just doesn't know it yet, LOL.
Top 5 Sexy Summer Couples
5. OLTL's Antonio & Talia - Granted they're not together at the moment and their adventure in Mendorra was a lot for them to endure. (Also, I had a difficult time creating this list.) BUT they have so much heat when they are together. A few months ago when it was revealed their break-up was just a ruse, they kissed outdoors near that boat and WOW! And when they got it on at the nightclub (Ultra Violet or Capricorn?), they blew me away. It took me a while to see their chemistry, but now I do, and they are very sexy together.
4. OLTL's Rex & Gigi - From DAY ONE they have oozed chemistry. They've longed for each other for months. Every time they looked at each other, I saw that longing. And it's really sexy. I've been waiting for them to finally be together. After Gigi found Rex in 1968 and they admitted their feelings & everything, they finally kissed. It was a kiss fans have been waiting for, and it was just so hot and passionate. I believe their first love scene will be steamy because the sex between Rex/Bo and Emma was, proving that J.P Lavoisier and Farah Fath make one sexy couple.
3. GH's Alexis & Jerry - It took months for me to realize the steam these two have together, but it is there. Every kiss, touch, and look they share is HOT. Alexis's denial of wanting to be with him just made them hotter. I'm glad she finally gave in because sex is something she was needing, LOL. However, I don't want them together for the long haul; Jerry is completely wrong for Alexis. I can't buy that they have real feelings for each other. So, if they just have this sizzling casual affair, then I'm happy.
2. OLTL's Jared & Natalie - They've cooled off this summer, but before then...WOW! I recall they were pretty hot before Jared's Buchanan fraud. You could see the chemistry and tell they had the hots for each other. During the fake uncle/niece thing, it was icky. But when Jared told Natalie the truth, the heat picked up again. The sexual tension was always there, though. They were very sexy when they revealed their true feelings and made love for the first time. What a love scene! And then all the sneaking around...very wrong but very hot. They did have two recent bed scenes, so maybe their heat is rising again.
1. AMC's Jake and ANYONE - Jake in the form of Ricky Paull Goldin is SO HOT. He is sexy in every scene he's in. He has unique chemistry with everyone - family, friends, bromances, potential love interests, etc. I just love watching him. He's such a joy to watch. I think Jake would be great with Amanda, Greenlee, or Taylor. And unfortunately it has taken months for him to even be put with someone. At this point I don't care who he dates or whatever. I just want to see his sexy side. I want to see him in a steamy love scene. He is a hot doctor; all he needs to do is take his pick. I bet any woman would have him. Taylor wants him, but she just doesn't know it yet, LOL.
6.21.2008
08 Emmy Winner List
The 2008 Daytime Emmy Winners
Drama Series: General Hospital
Lead Actor: Anthony Geary (Luke, GH)
Lead Actress: Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Y&R)
Supporting Actor: Kristoff St. John (Neil, Y&R)
Supporting Actress: Gina Tognoni (Dinah, GL)
Younger Actor: Tom Pelphrey (Jonathon, GL)
Younger Actress: Jennifer Landon (Gwen, ATWT)
Directing: One Life To Live
Writing: One Life To Live
Drama Series: General Hospital
Lead Actor: Anthony Geary (Luke, GH)
Lead Actress: Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Y&R)
Supporting Actor: Kristoff St. John (Neil, Y&R)
Supporting Actress: Gina Tognoni (Dinah, GL)
Younger Actor: Tom Pelphrey (Jonathon, GL)
Younger Actress: Jennifer Landon (Gwen, ATWT)
Directing: One Life To Live
Writing: One Life To Live
AMC ~ The New Jake Martin
Well, it's been almost two months now of Ricky Paull Goldin being on All My Children. How do you all like the new Jake Martin? I love him of course because I was already fan of Goldin's from Guiding Light. I've fallen more in love with him as Jake. He's working very well on AMC.
I have watched AMC for about 12 years, and I watched Goldin on GL during his entire seven-year run. As a fan of both, it's interesting to see the two merge. Ricky on AMC is really something. I saw the previous two Jakes (Michael Lowry and J. Eddie Peck). Lowry was the better out of those two, but both actors didn't bring too much to the role. Jake was always a pretty dull, good-hearted, kinda funny guy. He's always been a supporting character, never a strong role. Now, on GL Ricky was brilliant as Gus. He brought so much to the role that was always his. He made Gus an entertaining, beloved character. There were many episodes and storylines in which he blew me away with his talent. He should have won an Emmy for his time on GL. Having said all that, I knew Goldin would be amazing as Jake. I expected him to bring more spark to the role and be better in that sense than the previous portrayers. I knew he would shine as Jake.
Goldin has an energy about him that is unique and makes Jake an outstanding character. I believe Jake will become a leading character thanks to Goldin. Jake is wonderful to watch, and I can't take my eyes away when he's on screen. Goldin has so much talent, and I believed in him to revitalize Jake. From what I've seen so far he has. Jake is one to pay attention to every time he's on. It's hard to accurately describe just how amazing Jake is. And since Jake has been gone so long, it's easy to accept Goldin right away. I enjoy seeing Jake interacting with all the other characters, and I like how he's slowly being integrated into the show. Viewers never want a new face shoved at them every day. I am eager to know what Jake is hiding. He has a secret pain, and there's a lot of great potential for that. Goldin will be brilliant when Jake finally spills his guts and heart out. And there are plenty of potential stories & pairings for Jake once he's gotten through his pain & grief. Just wait until Beth Ehlers' character shows up, but that discussion is for another entry.
Goldin is a joy to watch on AMC. He has chemistry with a lot of people: romantic chemistry with Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), familial chemistry with Michael E. Knight (brother Tad) and Ray MacDonnell (dad Joe), and friendship chemistry with Aidan Turner (Aiden) and Cornelius Smith Jr (Frankie). He looks good as a doctor wearing the blue scrubs. He's funny at times like he usually was on GL. He clicks with AMC's vibe so well. I can't wait to see what he does next as Jake.
I know Goldin will continue shining on AMC, and maybe he will win an Emmy.
MY CAPTION - Jake: I don't care what you think Adam! I know I look good in these scrubs. The ladies love me!
Mmmhmm...yes, we do!
I have watched AMC for about 12 years, and I watched Goldin on GL during his entire seven-year run. As a fan of both, it's interesting to see the two merge. Ricky on AMC is really something. I saw the previous two Jakes (Michael Lowry and J. Eddie Peck). Lowry was the better out of those two, but both actors didn't bring too much to the role. Jake was always a pretty dull, good-hearted, kinda funny guy. He's always been a supporting character, never a strong role. Now, on GL Ricky was brilliant as Gus. He brought so much to the role that was always his. He made Gus an entertaining, beloved character. There were many episodes and storylines in which he blew me away with his talent. He should have won an Emmy for his time on GL. Having said all that, I knew Goldin would be amazing as Jake. I expected him to bring more spark to the role and be better in that sense than the previous portrayers. I knew he would shine as Jake.
Goldin has an energy about him that is unique and makes Jake an outstanding character. I believe Jake will become a leading character thanks to Goldin. Jake is wonderful to watch, and I can't take my eyes away when he's on screen. Goldin has so much talent, and I believed in him to revitalize Jake. From what I've seen so far he has. Jake is one to pay attention to every time he's on. It's hard to accurately describe just how amazing Jake is. And since Jake has been gone so long, it's easy to accept Goldin right away. I enjoy seeing Jake interacting with all the other characters, and I like how he's slowly being integrated into the show. Viewers never want a new face shoved at them every day. I am eager to know what Jake is hiding. He has a secret pain, and there's a lot of great potential for that. Goldin will be brilliant when Jake finally spills his guts and heart out. And there are plenty of potential stories & pairings for Jake once he's gotten through his pain & grief. Just wait until Beth Ehlers' character shows up, but that discussion is for another entry.
Goldin is a joy to watch on AMC. He has chemistry with a lot of people: romantic chemistry with Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), familial chemistry with Michael E. Knight (brother Tad) and Ray MacDonnell (dad Joe), and friendship chemistry with Aidan Turner (Aiden) and Cornelius Smith Jr (Frankie). He looks good as a doctor wearing the blue scrubs. He's funny at times like he usually was on GL. He clicks with AMC's vibe so well. I can't wait to see what he does next as Jake.
I know Goldin will continue shining on AMC, and maybe he will win an Emmy.
Mmmhmm...yes, we do!
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