Ending DAYS OUTTAKES blog

I'm finding the upkeep of both OUTTAKES and the DAYS OUTTAKES blogs to be a little confusing and silly. Often, I'm torn between posting on one blog or the other, posting on both, etc. It is just not practical. From now on, all articles posted will be on the OUTTAKES blog which I invite all interested to subscribe to. I'm always on the lookout for interesting news stories about present and past DAYS cast members...so anything I find along those lines will be on the OutTakes Facebook page (Search for "OutTakesInterviews" on Facebook).

OUTTAKES interview with MATTHEW ASHFORD

Matthew Ashford, best known for his role as "Jack Deveraux" on Days of Our Lives, speaks about his upcoming role as "Steve Jensen" on the webseries, The Bay. He also talks about the state of the entertainment industry and his various projects, including the release of the "Matt's Musings Month By Month" calendar for his favorite charity, Retinoblastoma International.

Previously recorded earlier this week, the interview will be broadcast on Blogtalkradio this Sunday, September 26th, at 10 PM EST.

PODCAST with LEANN HUNLEY and JENNIFER BROWN THOMAS

LEANN HUNLEY (Anna Dimera, Days of Our Lives) and writer/director JENNIFER BROWN THOMAS talk about their upcoming independent film, Blissful Lies. Click on the link to hear this OutTakes podcast interview.

LIVE CALL-IN Radio Show with LOUISE SOREL

Beloved for her roles as "Augusta Lockridge" on Santa Barbara and the deliciously evil "Vivian Alamain" on Days of Our Lives, Louise Sorel is one of the best character actresses on daytime, ranking #41 in WE LOVE SOAPS' poll of the 50 Greatest Soap Actresses of all time.

Come join us on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 at 10 PM EST. The call in number is 347-989-0605. Make sure to press 1 when the message prompts you to speak to host so that I know you have a question. You can also participate in the chatroom but to do so, you must register for an account with blogtalkradio.

Elinor Donahue on Y&R

For those of you who watched DAYS in the early 1980s, you may remember "Delia Abernathy" aka "Nurse Hunnicut" who often did all sorts of dastardly deeds for Stefano Dimera. Among many crimes, she helped with keeping Tony and Anna locked away in Stefano's dungeon and tried to kill Hope a few times. The actress, Elinor Donahue, was on The Young and The Restless last week as "Judge Anderson" who married Billy and Victoria. I thought she looked familiar!

Thaao Penghlis on Twitter

As announced on his guestpage, Thaao Penghlis (Tony, DAYS) is joining the Twitterverse. You can follow Thaao at http://twitter.com/ThaaoPenghlis.

Mark Hapka and Molly Burnett co-host ACME SATURDAY NIGHT

Following in the footsteps of Eric Martsolf (Brady) and Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe), Mark Hapka (Nathan) and Molly Burnett (Melanie) are slated to co-host the online TV show "ACME Saturday Night" September 18 at 7:00 p.m. PT on acmecomedy.com. They will appear in comedy sketches and spoof videos alongside the "ACME Saturday Night" cast.

Leann Hunley in the Lone Star State!

Check out this fantastic picture of Leann Hunley (Anna, DAYS) along with director/writer Jennifer Brown Thomas as shooting starts on independent film, BLISSFUL LIES.

Next month, look for an OUTTAKES interview with these two cowgirls as they talk more about the film!!!

Staci Greason makes return appearance

Breaking news from SOAP OPERA DIGEST

With DAYS OF OUR LIVES's Brady in crisis mode, he could certainly use a visit from his dearly departed mother. And he's going to get one. Staci Greason is returning as Isabella for a dream sequence scheduled to air on October 19. Greason played Isabella from 1989-'95, when the character died of pancreatic cancer. She previously made appearances through the years from 2000-'03.

Charles Shaughnessy in WSCH6 NBC interview

Wonderful video interview with Charles Shaughnessy by WSCH6.com (a local NBC affiliate) in Portland ME. Check it out!

Steve and Kayla in 2nd Sheri Anderson book

Even though Stephen Nichols is busy as "Tucker McCall" on Y&R and Mary Beth Evans will be living it up as "Sara Garrett" on THE BAY, Steve and Kayla's love still lives on in Sheri Anderson's second novel in the DAYS OF OUR LIVES paperback series. John and Marlena will be featured as well.

James Reynolds' TOP DOG/UNDERDOG opening night

Director James Reynolds' (Abe, DAYS) production of TOP DOG/UNDERDOG opened last night at the Fremont Centre Theatre. FYI, cast member Jed Reynolds is James' son. Here is a recent Backstage LA review of the show!

More about Leann Hunley's BLISSFUL LIES

Next month, Leann Hunley (Anna, DAYS) starts shooting an independent film with CJ Productions titled BLISSFUL LIES. Here is director/writer Jennifer Brown Thomas' description of the film:

This film is about the close ties and bonds between a group of 5 college-aged people who find the limits of their relationships are tested when secrets and lies begin to rise to the surface. A powerful lesson emerges out of one group member’s secret which is the idea of age being “just a number,” and we find in the film this is an important lesson in trying to understand the idea of a misunderstood relationship. My film will show this concept of age being “just a number” when we explore a relationship baring the motto of “forbidden fruit” between a prominent female figure in society and a younger man. The film also explores a typical double standard women are often faced with in society; the idea is it is acceptable for a man to do things women cannot. The main conflict of the film is found in multiple secrets between members which ultimately leave them all wondering if it is too much to move forward as the “family” they once were. Ultimately, I want the audience to feel a strong connection to each character and the secret they are desperately clinging to. I hope to help the audience relate to their being faced with decisions in life which warrant a very difficult response. Life can be messy and at times we should do what feels wrong, because in the end it may turn out to be the best decision we could have made.

Check DAYS OutTakes regularly for more about BLISSFUL LIES!

DAYS Boston Charity Q&A Recap

(pictured above -- Wally Kurth with OutTakes host Laurie Baker)

QUESTION: WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MISTAKE WHILE FILMING?

Wally Kurth said that the shooting schedule doesn't allow for mistakes.

Crystal Chappell admitted she was "prop challenged".

Louise Sorel had accidentally left the set before shooting was finished.

James Scott wouldn't admit to any of his own, but said that Ali Sweeney had a habit of running into set doors. One time she did it holding Baby Sydney!

Mark Hapka recounted doing a scene with Shelley Hennig wearing a skimpy lingeree outfit. He hadn't seemed to notice during rehearsal but while actually taping, his eyes went where they weren't supposed to...and he forgot his lines.

Casey Deidrick had unintentionally parked in Joe Mascolo's parking space. After working up the nerve to apologize to Mascolo, he found Mascolo in near tears over it. Wally said that he'd done the same thing once and "Joe was livid".

Molly Burnett always runs into stuff and then DAYS airs it.

QUESTION: ANY FAVORITE MOMENTS WITH FANS WHO REALLY THINK THAT THEY ARE THE CHARACTERS THEY PLAY?

Molly Burnett: "A fan said to me once that 'if you're not nicer to Max, they're going to kill you off of that show!'"

While Casey Deidrick was shopping for dog food about a month after his episodes started airing, a fan came up to him and said "You better start being nice to Mia!"

After a few people saw Mark Hapka outside, a man came to him and asked if he was Nathan? Mark said he wasn't. The man's girlfriend said "Ask him again! He's lying!" When the man came to him again, Mark had to explain that he was not Nathan but that he did play him on TV.

James Scott recalled when a fan saw him naked on a beach in Maui (yes, the famous story!) Also, when location shooting on AMC, a man on the street yelled out "You shot Ryan!" Not the thing to say in midttown Manhattan with a lot of people around.

Louise Sorel: "Nobody talks to me. They cross to the other side of the street. Someone, please talk to me!"

Crystal Chappell said fans would ask her why she killed her husband. She was also amazed when a photo of her from Bed, Bath and Beyond ended up in Soap Opera Digest.

Wally Kurth: A fan from his hometown (Billings, Montana) drove by his childhood home, introduced herself to his mother...and ended up having dinner and staying the night there!

QUESTION: IF YOU COULDN'T ACT, WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO?

Crystal Chappell: "Win the lottery. I'd have to do something creative or I'd die! Maybe I'd be an accountant."

Wally Kurth opted to be a Forest Ranger

Louise Sorel would own an animal farm.

James Scott would work in another country.

Mark Hapka would focus on his music career.

Casey Deidrick would go back to his pre-acting interests: skateboarding and the Marine Corps.

Molly Burnett couldn't think of anything else. "I popped out acting!"

QUESTION: HOW MUCH DO THE ACTORS MAKE? (Hey, I didn't ask this!!)

Molly Burnett: Minimum wage!

James Scott said that if they were to reveal their salaries, we all would see in-fighting the likes of what you would see on the Jerry Springer show!

QUESTION: HOW MANY PUBLIC APPEARANCES DO YOU HAVE TO DO?

James Scott: "We don't have to do any...but I do about 3 or 4 a year regularly, including this one."

QUESTION: WHAT IS THE SHOOTING SCHEDULE LIKE?

Wally Kurth said that in the 80s it would be a long day with several blocking sessions, rehearsals and naps. Now everything goes by a lot faster with a block and tape, making for a shorter day.

QUESTION FOR MOLLY BURNETT: DOES SHE EVER WATCH SCENES OF BO/CARLY 1.0?

Molly said she did and enjoyed them.

QUESTION: WOULD ANY OF THEM CONSIDER DOING A MOVIE? (I didn't ask this either...)

Molly Burnett said absolutely. Casey Deidrick said sure, if not taping. Mark Hapka said he was making movies now. Crystal Chappell mentioned Venice. When Venice was brought up, Wally joked that he watched the series to "see Nadia make out with another woman".

QUESTION FOR WALLY KURTH: HOW ARE NED (GH) AND JUSTIN (DAYS) ALIKE?

Wally: They both wear suits and ties regularly, are super rich, bluebloods from aristocratic families that run the family business.

QUESTION: FAVORITE STORYLINE?

Louise Sorel said there were so many...but she remembered Vivian's scenes of having a lobotomy and being a bag lady.

James Scott: "Being thrown through a glass door by Stephen Nichols." I don't remember this at all!

Mark Hapka: "Playing drunk"

Casey Deidrick: "Anytime I get to be a smartass. Being a new Dimera is cool." At this answer, he worried he'd given out a spoiler although the news is pretty much out. James Scott cautioned Casey that when John Callahan (AMC) revealed a spoiler at a fan event, the AMC headwriter got mad and made his character paralyzed and impotent for two years. Mark Hapka joked that that was great because he got paid and didn't have to memorize dialogue.

Molly Burnett enjoyed playing "super evil" as well as the sparring scenes with Shelley Hennig.

Wally Kurth enjoyed the early Justin/Adrienne days. (Didn't we all?)

QUESTION: HOW FAR AHEAD ARE THE EPISODES TAPED IN ADVANCE?

Crystal Chappell: "Three months"

QUESTION FOR CRYSTAL CHAPPELL: THE BO/CARLY FANS ARE REALLY STRESSED OUT THAT BO AND CARLY ARE GOING TO BREAK UP. DOES WRITING LETTERS REALLY HELP?

Crystal answered that they were actually in a good place by having a storyline with two equally passionate fanbases. James Scott said Gary Tomlin was very interested in what fans were saying in letters and on message boards.

QUESTION FOR LOUISE SOREL: DOES SHE REALLY GET ALONG WITH JOHN ANISTON?

Louise said that John is a big teddy bear; that they can be so snarky in their scenes because they have such a good relationship as actors. He often causes her to crack up when they're taping.

QUESTION: WHAT DO YOU HOPE WILL HAPPEN FOR YOUR CHARACTER?

Wally Kurth wants a storyline for Justin.

Crystal Chappell wants Carly to leave the hospital every once in a while. She would have liked to see the Carly/Lawrence relationship further explored. Also, she would love to see Vivian turn out to be Carly's mother!

Louise Sorel hopes for a storyline pick-up for Vivian.

James Scott wants EJ to have a real job where we actually see him working.

Mark Hapka wants Nathan to stop being such a nice guy and to work with more of the other cast members.

Casey Deidrick also wants more of a storyline and to work with Molly more.

Molly Burnett: "Grandma Vivian!" She also would like to do more comedy like the strip poker scene of last year.

QUESTION: ANY CHANCE THAT THE STORYLINES AREN'T GOING TO KEEP MOVING SO FAST?

The general consensus of all the actors was that the storylines were going to move faster.

QUESTION FOR JAMES SCOTT: WHEN IS HE GOING TO GET MARRIED?

James and his fiancee are working on getting their house finished first; then they will work on the big wedding.

QUESTION FOR JAMES SCOTT: WHAT'S UP WITH THE HAIRCUT?

James couldn't say. Apparently, it is storyline-related. (From what I heard at the event, I think EJ's going to get shot in the head!) Louise Sorel joked that when she saw James' haircut, she declared "The military has arrived!"

QUESTION FOR MOLLY BURNETT AND CASEY DEIDRICK: ARE THEY GOING TO WORK MORE TOGETHER?

They want to have an adversarial relationship rather than romantic on the show. They mentioned their work together on EMPIRE. Wally talked about how working on GH with Rena Sofer (his ex-wife) is more uncomfortable because you're mixing the personal with the business of filming.

QUESTION FOR MOLLY BURNETT AND CASEY DEIDRICK: WILL THERE BE ANOTHER DANCE-OFF VIDEO?

They are considering it. The first dance-off video was inspired by a bet that Molly had with her brother.

DAYS OutTakes in Boston

(above) Molly Burnett's Twitter pic posted last night

Looking forward to seeing and meeting several of the DAYS cast members today at the Boston DAYS Charity event...including Louise Sorel, Wally Kurth, James Scott, Molly Burnett, Crystal Chappell, Mark Hapka and Casey Deidrick! Check the blog later on for a play-by-play.

Bye Bye Dr. Baker

Article from SOAP OPERA DIGEST:

Dr. Baker heads out of Salem this week for the second time in a year. "In this day and age, you always hope for bigger and better, but my understanding form talking to Gary Tomlin was that Baker is someone who comes and goes on the scene, and right now, he's in a go position, "shrugs the actor. "I don't know what the future holds: I wouldn't count Dr. Baker out."

Baker's Salem run ends with him on trial for the attacks on the men of Salem. Hope is brought in to testify. "As he started to have feelings for her, he saw that she was not some kooky broad who likes to make money by mugging," observes John Callahan. "When Baker goes to trial, he sees that Hope's going down; her career, possibly her psyche, is going to be damaged forever, and he just decides to stop the trial and take the fall and say, 'This is it,' and pleads guilty. So, in the end, he turns rather heroic, which is a nice twist on Baker, because he's always been so ethically testing the waters and sort of floating on the surface."

As for another comeback, he says, "It's completely up to them what they want to write, and if I am available if and when they do call, then we'll see which way it goes." In the meantime, the actor is auditioning and spending time with his daughter, Kaya, 8. "My role is playing dad, which is the best one," he smiles, adding, "And it pays a little better than scale."

His last airdate is August 26th.

Charles Shaughnessy interview with Theatermania

Great interview with Charles Shaughnessy (now appearing in Spamalot at Ogunquit Playhouse, ME) on Theatermania website.

Charlotte Ross filming STREET KINGS 2

Charlotte Ross (ex-Eve, DAYS) is filming her latest role right now in STREET KINGS 2- MOTOR CITY. She is playing the wife of Ray Liotta and it's being directed by Chris Fisher.

For an exclusive photo from the film set, check out this link from Charlotte's Official Website on Facebook.

Charles Shaughnessy opens in SPAMALOT

Charles Shaughnessy stars as "King Arthur" with Rachel York as "The Lady of the Lake" at Ogunquit Playhouse in Ogunquit Maine. For tickets, times and further information, go to the website at http://www.ogunquitplayhouse.org/

Taylor Spreitler in MELISSA AND JOEY

Taylor Spreitler (Ex-Mia, DAYS) is starring on Melissa Joan Hart and Joey Lawrence on their new show Melissa and Joey. She will be playing the role of Lennox, Mel’ niece. The show debuts ABC Family on Tuesday, August 17 with back-to-back original episodes, at 8:00PM & 8:30PM ET/PT. The half-hour series will air regularly on Tuesday nights at 8:00PM ET/PT.

Melissa & Joey, a half-hour multi-cam comedy with Melissa Joan Hart and Joey Lawrence executive producing and starring, finds Hart portraying Mel, the grown-up former wild child of a political family who is now a local politician herself. When her sister ends up in prison and brother-in-law flees after a scandal hits, Mel must take responsibility for her teenaged niece Lennox and pre-adolescent nephew Ryder. Spread too thin to manage by herself, help comes in the unlikely form of Joe (Lawrence) who, desperate for a job, moves in and becomes the family’s “manny.” David Kendall & Bob Young are executive producers and writers; Paula Hart also serves as executive producer.

Catherine Mary Stewart in CLASS airing on 8/14/2010

Catherine Mary Stewart (known to DAYS fans as the original Kayla Brady) will be starring in CLASS, an original movie which premieres tomorrow night, Saturday Aug 14th on the Hallmark Channel at 9:00 EST. Other ca-stars include Eric Roberts (Vance on Y&R at the moment), Jodi Lyn O'Keefe & Justin Bruening. Encore performances of Class - just in case you miss the premiere are Aug 15 (1:00 AM & 9:00 PM), Aug 20 (9:00 PM) & Aug. 21 (3:00 PM). All times are EST.

WE LOVE SOAPS article about Philece Sampler

First, the news is out about the new independent film, BLISSFUL LIES, starring Leann Hunley (Anna, DAYS)...and now there's a great article about what Philece Sampler (Anna Dimera's famous nemesis, Renee) is up to these days. Feels like 1982 all over again! I'd love to have Philece return back to DAYS...but not without Tony to obsess over and Anna to give her hell!

Check out the "Blast From the Past" article posted by WE LOVE SOAPS to see what Philece is up to nowadays.

Billy Warlock Update

Sounds now that the reports of Billy Warlock returning to DAYS are false. This Jack and Jennifer fan is happy to hear that.

Leann Hunley starring in BLISSFUL LIES

As per Leann Hunley's website, Leann (Anna, DAYS) posted that she has booked the lead in an independent film, Blissful Lies, which begins shooting in September. More details when they become available!

Billy Warlock returning as Frankie

What is up with all the bizarre casting news this week? Billy Warlock's stint as Ross on One Life to Live was apparently short term (I thought this was miscasting anyway), so maybe it doesn't matter so much that he is now reprising his role as Frankie Brady on Days of Our Lives.

However, as a long-suffering Jack and Jennifer fan, I have to go on a rampage now. This is not good news any way you look at it. Matthew Ashford has not been asked back and Billy Warlock has? Even if Matthew is asked back, as so many DAYS fans are hoping right now, is this just going to lead to another tired Frankie/Jennifer/Jack triangle, Part Three? I don't buy for a second that Frankie's returning for the sake of his sister, Carly. DAYS never seems to be able to keep Frankie and Jennifer out of each other's orbit even though that ship sailed a long time ago. Leave it to DAYS to deflate my excitement about Melissa Reeves' return in less than a week!

Real Days of Our Lives Housewives!!!

The group [NBC Local Media] also will get an assist from its network and syndication marketing arms. They are partnering to create a cross-promotion featuring the network’s soap opera, Days of Our Lives, and Real Housewives that will rebrand the reality show as a new sort of daytime soap.

“From a network, we see it as a benefit for us,” says Scot Chastain, NBC’s senior VP of affiliate marketing and development. “By pairing the two, we send more of a youth audience to Days, and we expose an older audience to Housewives. There’s a lot of cross-blending potential there.”

The promo will incorporate clips from both shows, highlighting how they are thematically similar. “It’s all about daytime, drama and divas,” says Donna Mills, senior VP of marketing, affiliate relations and communications for NBCU Domestic TV. The promo will air on all 10 of NBC’s owned stations, and on 27 other NBC affiliates.

Via Broadcasting & Cable website.

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My opinion: More of daytime selling its soul to survive. Just like the soaps catered to Viva Las Vegas during the Daytime Emmys, settling for a Las Vegas travelogue with an occasional award handed out to one of those minor daytime stars...now DAYS is going to become eaten up with reality TV show promos to accompany those annoying product placement ads that already is happening way too much on the show. Add that to all of Ali Sweeney's fame from The Biggest Loser; and it is even more Reality TV Land. Of course, I'm just one of those old fuddy duddies that actually liked television when it was scripted...so what do I know? And the stories I could tell you about the "Real Days of Our Lives Housewives" that I know would make for a much juicier plot!!!

James Reynolds directing TOPDOG/UNDERDOG

OutTakes guest James Reynolds is directing "Topdog/Underdog" at the Fremont Centre Theatre. Later on, the show will also occur at Cape May Stage, NJ.

Here is the info for the Fremont Centre Theatre show dates.

Topdog/Underdog previews 8 p.m., Friday, August 20, opens 8 p.m. Saturday, August 21 and performs 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday through September 18. Tickets are $25, $20 students and seniors, $35 Gala Opening night (all seats). Preview tickets are $12.50. Call 866-811-4111 or visit www.fremontcentretheatre.com.

Check out this interview with James at the LA Theater Examiner link.

Matt Ashford guesting on 90210

Via Matt's FB Page:

News from Matt: He just finished shooting one day of scenes as a guest on 90210. He plays a guy named Peter whose wife is the employer of one of the series' teen regulars. Matt's not sure when this episode airs. The show's season premiere is September 13th.

Wally Kurth's CLASS C premiering on TV

As per Wally Kurth's website:

"Class C", a documentary produced and narrated by Wally Kurth, premieres on the
Halogen Network, Saturday, August 7, at 9pm ET.

To find out if Halogen is available in your area visit: http://get.halogentv.com/

For more information about "Class C" visit the website at: http://www.classcmovie.com

Gabriela Rodriguez OUT!!!

According to Soap Opera Digest, Gabriela Rodriguez will no longer be playing Gaby Hernandez. Camila Banus (ex-Lola, OLTL) will be taking over the part.

Mark Hapka in BEYOND THE MAT

INDIE HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING PIC BEYOND THE MAT PUMPED UP BY SOME LORDS OF THE RING

These days, the web buzz around Beyond The Mat, the high school wrestling drama starring John Wynn and Days of Our Lives' Mark Hapka, is steadily building into the roar of the crowd as the film is granted some extra heft from pro wrestlers Kurt Angle and Ken Shamrock. The Olympic Gold medalist and UFC champion, respectively, will be appearing in pivotal scenes in the indie pic based on the Tribeca fest-winning screenplay. The film, the feature directorial debut of Van Pham, is executive produced by L.A.-based Catch 22 Entertainment.

See 411.com link for more info.

James Scott and Galen Gering respond to Hartley firing

As reported by Soaps She Knows, James Scott and Galen Gering reported and responded to the news of Lindsay Hartley's firing at the recent Days Into Night event:

James Scott (EJ): "I thought for a while that there might be something there [chemistry between EJ and Arianna], and it would be nice. It’s been a long, long, long, long time since EJ has had any physical action! A long time! Lindsay is a great person and a wonderful actress. I’m sure she will be working again very soon."

Galen Gering (Rafe): "In these times and the economy the way that it is, they are only going to invest in characters that really connect with the audience. It’s unfortunate because her character (Arianna) had a rough start with the storylines, but it seemed to be taking off recently. That’s just how it goes in this business though."

Matt Ashford Statement about THE BAY

Via Matt Ashford's Facebook Page:

Okay, the word is already out, but to confirm ... I'll soon be appearing on the new web series, "The Bay." I look forward to joining Mary Beth Evans and the rest of the cast and crew. The show will be coming to the web this Fall. Filming for my character doesn't start until sometime next month. I'll keep you posted. -Matt

Matthew Ashford joins THE BAY

What started out as a rumor is now confirmed as fact. Matthew Ashford joins the cast of THE BAY in Chapter 7 of the series. The five-time Soap Opera Digest Award winning actor will be playing Sara Garrett's (Mary Beth Evans) prisoned rapist, Steve Jensen, who also happens to be the father of her oldest child Brian Nelson.

Hmmm, Matthew Ashford playing Mary Beth Evans' rapist. What is it about this that sounds familiar?

Ty Treadway cast on DAYS

On the heels of the firing of Lindsay Hartley, Soap Talk host Ty Treadway (ex-Colin/Troy, OLTL) will be coming to Salem as Dr. Jason Walters. The actor begins taping next month and will appear in several episodes.

Lindsay Hartley Out at DAYS

Lindsay Hartley (Arianna) has been let go from DAYS. Whatever the reason, I applaud this decision. The character of Arianna frankly isn't that interesting. She was a bore from the start when Felisha Terrell played the role. Nicole has her beat in the chemistry factor with Brady. On PASSIONS, apparently Lindsay and Eric Martsolf had good chemistry; but it just doesn't translate in Salem. I can only hope that maybe this is the beginning of the end of the PASSIONS-fest that DAYS has become for the last two years.

Charlotte Ross Block Party

Charlotte Ross (ex-Eve, DAYS; NYPD Blue, Glee) will be posting on the Nickelodeon ParentsConnect Block Party all day on Wednesday, July 21st. Go this link to participate.

John and Jennifer Aniston records children's book

John Aniston (Victor, DAYS) teams up with his famous daughter, Jennifer, to record a new recording of a children's classic, Growing Up with Loukoumi. The story is of a child who turns to her father for insight on how to be a success when she grows up.

The recording is going to accompany the book Loukoumi’s Good Deeds -- $2 from every purchase will be donated to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

To hear a part of the recording, go this link at Us Magazine.

Roark Critchlow the Facebook Friend

If any one needs proof that Roark Critchlow (Mike Horton, DAYS) has a warped and delightful sense of humor, check out this crazy mvid he put up called "Facebook Friend". It will put a smile on your face!

Also, if any "Blogger" experts know how to shrink a YouTube embedded video, please send me a note because as you can see, I'm obviously challenged that way!

Mark Hapka in Savvy and Mandy music video

Check out the making of Savvy & Mandy's new music video, Words, with an appearance by DAYS' own Mark Hapka. Words will hit YouTube on July 27th.

Catherine Mary Stewart talks with HORROR SOCIETY

Before there was Mary Beth Evans as "Kayla Brady", there was Catherine Mary Stewart. After Catherine left DAYS, she starred in a lot of of those guilty pleasure 1980s miniseries such as Sins and Hollywood Wives; and since then, she has achieved quite a following for her work in sci fi and horror film.

Check out Catherine's recent interview with Horror Society. In it, she has the following hysterically funny quote about her work at DAYS:

"An hour show a day is difficult. My very first day on the set was humiliating. It’s my very first scene as Nurse Kayla Brady and I had to name every single character. I got everybody’s name wrong! Everyone was like No, I’m Maggie and this is Hope!" And, as for the most exciting thing that happened during her tenure on the long soap? "I lost my virginity to my brother! Josh Taylor was playing Chris Kositchek at the time and I lost my virginity to him. Now he’s back on the soap, playing Roman Brady, Kayla’s brother. So, I lost my virginity to my brother!"

To keep up with what Catherine Mary Stewart is doing these days, check out her website and Facebook page.

Congrats, John de Lancie!

John de Lancie (Q, Star Trek; Eugene, Days of Our Lives) is nominated for Best Actor for his role of "Santa Claus" in the animated film, Elf Sparkle Meets Christmas the Horse in the Alaska International Film Fesitval. The awards will be handed out during the film festival in Anchorage, Alaska today (July 15th). Good luck, John!

Nadia Bjorlin hosting ACME

As per Nadia's twitter page:

"Ok, kids, get ready! I'm hosting ACME Saturday night on August 14th! Who knows what will happen."

Eric Martsolf has hosted there a couple of times as well. Check the ACME comedy club website for more details.

Daphne Bloomer on THE BAY

As per Lanyfilms Productions' FB Page:

Best known for her role as Sami's nemesis Eugenia Willans on DAYS OF OUR LIVES, now joining the cast of THE BAY is DAPHNE BLOOMER. Bloomer will be playing Colleen Givens a woman from Vivian Johnson's past. She begins taping on July 17th, playing opposite Réal Andrews (Dr. Keith Campbell).

Bloomer's real-life son Aiden Matthew McVay ...will also make an appearance on the show as Tony and Marly's son, R.J. Foster.

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After being on a week-long break, a lot of stuff happening with DAYS news right now which I'm sure everyone already knows about. Eric Martsolf's appearance with ACME, Deidre Hall's new nutrition book coming out, Jessica Tuck leaving DAYS and Charles Shaughnessy appearing on THE BAY and on stage in SPAMALOT were the main events from last week.

DAYS OutTakes on hiatus

Not going to be posting much this week on the blog, but looking forward to some exciting stuff to come.

Deidre Hall tweets about book

As per Deidre's tweets today:

Proofed my book cover today. Gorgeous!! It's unbelievably exciting. I'll keep you posted!!
3:21 AM Jun 24th via web

Yippee!! My book is coming off the presses this week!!!! I'm beyond thrilled with the way it turned out.
about 8 hours ago via web

So this is all very intriguing. I've heard rumors that she was planning on writing a tell-all book about DAYS. Not sure what other book she could be referring to. If anyone is in the know and wants to share, I'm all ears.

Secrets, Scandals and Lies

As per TV Guide:

Cool news for fans of Days of Our Lives' John and Marlena...they're coming back! Only you won't find 'em on your TV. The legendary supercouple — played by Drake Hogestyn and Deidre Hall, who were axed in 2008 to cut production costs — will be among several MIA Days characters who appear in a new potboiler novel called Salem's Secrets, Scandals and Lies (Sourcebooks, Inc.). Due in November, just in time for the soap's 45th anniversary, the book is by former Days head writer Sheri Anderson, who will reveal what's been happening to Jarlena since the characters split town. She'll also bring us up to date on such other Salem expats as Belle, Shawn, Patch and Eric.

"I love this kind of writing because it gives me total freedom with the characters," says Anderson. "I can take them to any lavish locale in the world and I don't have to worry about budget restrictions or actor contracts!" She'll focus the book — the first of at least three — on a brand-new character, teen heiress Charlotte "Charley" Gaines, who is the daughter of a notorious Bernie Madoff-type crook. Or so she thinks. After her mother dies in a car crash in Monaco, Charley finds out that her true birth parents hail from Salem. "Charley is gorgeous, spirited, independent and still a virgin —for the moment anyway," Anderson says.

The books will take place in the same basic time frame as the current Days plots. "I keep the show up to speed on what I'm doing so I don't contradict their storytelling," she says. "As a fan of soaps, it drives me crazy when continuity is wrong." Might Charley actually appear in the flesh on Days some day? "I would love it," says Anderson. "But I understand as well as anyone that head writers don't want to be told that they have to use a character. If they read my books and decide they'd like to use Charley I'm all for it. The needs of the show come first."

Anderson doesn't consider her sexy tomes to be romance novels. "Those tend to be a bit on the soft side," she says. "These books are a little more daring and edgy than that." And they may get a rise out of certain Days fans. Case in point: Anderson will have Charley develop an attraction for the very married Shawn!

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My thoughts:

I'm always leary of books that take off from a popular series or movie and have original characters put into them. This reminds me of Alexandra Ripley's sequel of Gone With the Wind that practically made Scarlett and Rhett unrecognizable and had a lot of extra original characters in it that I could have cared less about. So this Charley chick better have a lot of charisma to win me over. Can't imagine when John and Marlena managed to have this love child come out from nowhere. She had the "alien twins" during her missing years...so it probably wasn't then unless she truly was a baby-making machine.

Also, I wonder how well John and Marlena will do on paper without Deidre Hall and Drake Hogestyn to give them life. Soap characters, in my opinion, often become popular through the skill of the actors that play them combined with good story. While most DAYS fans know that Sheri Anderson is an excellent headwriter, her skills will really come to the test as a novelist to make this work.

At any rate, you will be sure to find a book review here on DAYS OutTakes.

Charlotte Ross strips for PETA

Charlotte Ross (Judy, GLEE; Connie, NYPD Blue; ex-Eve, DAYS) once again strips for the sake of animal rights. As part of Urban Outfitters’ action to go fur free last March, now they are doing a trial sale of T-shirts featuring Charlotte both fur-free and clothes-free posing with a rabbit. To show your support for PETA and fur-free fashion, check out the following link and go shop at your local Urban Outfitters.

Next year will also be the release of Charlotte's film, Drive Angry, starring Nicolas Cage.

Ali Sweeney hosts Macy's 4th of July Fireworks

As per NBC Press Release:

NBC Celebrates the nation's birthday extravaganza with performances by music superstar Justin Bieber, Grammy Award winning musician Enrique Iglesias and multi-platinum singer LeAnn Rimeson at NBC's 11th consecutive live broadcast of "Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular." Cast members from the "Twilight Saga: Eclipse" will also partake in the excitement onboard the Norwegian EPIC. Hosted by Nick Cannon, from NBC's "America's Got Talent" and Alison Sweeney, from NBC's "The Biggest Loser," the show will air in high definition on Sunday, July 4th 9-10 p.m. ET, 8-9 p.m. CT.

Roark Critchlow on PRETTY LITTLE LIARS

Roark Critchlow (Mike, DAYS) has a role in tonight's episode of Pretty Little Liars . He plays the father of Hannah (Ashley Benson, ex-Abby, DAYS). Check your local listings for when the show airs on the ABC Family channel.

Molly Burnett in GOOD NIGHT CHARLIE

If you actually don't plan on seeing Molly Burnett up for Best Younger Actress at the Daytime Emmys tonight, you could also watch her on Disney's Good Night Charlie airing tonight. Check your local listings for when scheduled.

Rating the Alice Horton Returns, Part 2

Kayla – Great to see Mary Beth Evans as always…but I admit I really missed seeing Steve by Kayla’s side. Seeing Kayla and Stephanie together was sweet…but Stephanie needs Daddy Johnson around to snap some sense back into her. All this just makes me glad that Mary Beth is going to “The Bay” where she’s going to be a main character and appreciated.

Melissa – I still like Lisa Trusel as a blonde better, although I can appreciate why the actress wouldn’t want to redo her look every time there’s a funeral. The Melissa/Nathan scene was just weird for me. Maybe if we had a clue of who his father was or what his childhood was like, there would be more of a connection between mother and son. As it was, it felt hollow. I had more of a kick out of seeing Melissa and Kayla reunite. What long-term viewer can forget when Melissa was in love with Jack and was accused of having poisoned Kayla? A reminder of better DAYS.

Lucas – The wounds are still fresh for me about Bryan Dattilo being dumped before. Great to see him around…but he was so wasted!

Carrie – This character was never one of my favorites, but I found her return to be the most well-written so far. There was solid acknowledgement of the present such as Carrie’s apology to Sami for Anna’s kidnapping of Sydney. There was acknowledgement of the past such as the poignant scene between Mike and Carrie at the hospital. The Carrie/Sami reunion was nice to see. If DAYS insists on making Sami a good girl, you could at least see her character assuming responsibility for her crimes against Carrie. Of course, I never really thought Austin was worth all that hoop-la in the first place…but that’s just me.

Mike – Another shout-out for the great Carrie/Mike scene at the hospital. I like the acceptance of the past, but there were still longing looks between the two of them…wondering how things could have been. Still, is Mike with Robin or isn’t he? And it would have been fun to hear him kvetch about what a brat Jeremy turned out to be.

Maggie/Jennifer – These two were the perfect characters to have to do the heartbreaking scene when Alice actually passed. Maggie and Jennifer are two characters so closely associated with the original Horton family…and Suzanne Rogers and Missy Reeves are phenomenal actresses who had the chops to pull it off. Kudos! With all the hoop-la going on with the returning cast members, sometimes it’s easy to forget what this is all really about. This scene made me remember with tears.

Sure to be more ratings to come for Part 3, including more Kim and Shane along with the actual Alice Horton funeral.

Stacy Haiduk coming to DAYS

No sooner do we hear that Stacy Haiduk has been let go from Y&R but then we hear that she is coming to DAYS, playing a prison warden(?!) Her episodes first air in September. Now I enjoy Stacy very much as an actress...but I'd rather not see her on DAYS. I still don't believe she should have been let go from Y&R in the first place. Her performance of "Patty Williams" was great until the writing got too crazy. DAYS can get the available talent, but the actors are wasted or miswritten once they hit the set (i.e., Crystal Chappell, Louise Sorel, Wally Kurth, Judi Evans). Also, DAYS doesn't need more new characters. In my opinion, I'd rather see the DAYS vets who have returned for the Alice Horton funeral stick around and make the show recognizable again.

Bill and Susan Seaforth Hayes news clip

Here is a WDTV news clip showing Bill and Susan Hayes at the West Virginia Public Theatre, celebrating the opening of the new Morgantown Events Center last night (June 22nd).

Roark Critchlow Returns Tomorrow

Roark Crichlow (Mike Horton) returns today with airdates from June 23 thru June 25 for the Frances Reid reunion episodes. While Mike drives back to Salem to see Alice during his final days, he ruptures his spleen in a car crash.

To get to know more about Roark, check out his new Facebook page where you can see clips from his film and TV projects.

John de Lancie talks about DAYS

John de Lancie (Q, STAR TREK; Eugene, DAYS) at the 2010 Philadelphia Comic Con addresses a question asked about his experience working on DAYS, including a priceless story about his time with Arleen Sorkin (Calliope). Check it out. Go to YouTube to see the video the correct way (damn you, Blogger!)

Gloria Loring show going to Vegas

Press release from CPA America announces that Gloria Loring (ex-Liz, DAYS) will be heading to Las Vegas with her concert, "TV Tunez" which celebrates the great TV theme songs such as "The Facts of Life" and "Friends and Lovers" (Kim and Shane's love song from DAYS). More details will come when available. Congrats, Gloria!

StarCam DAYS Book Party Videos

Check out StarCam's YouTube page where you can see cast members from the Ken Corday Book Launch Party as well as different interviews with Wally Kurth, Brandon Beemer, Nadia Bjorlin and Shelley Hennig.

Congrats, Steve Blackwood!

Congrats to Steve Blackwood for winning "Favorite Performance in a Comedy - Male" at the Andes Awards held on Friday, June 18th for his role as Robert in "Boeing Boeing" held at the Meadow Brook Theatre. The play, directed by Travis W. Walter, also won an Andes Award for "Favorite Show". This was the first ever holding of these awards, voted in by the subscribers of Meadow Brook Theater in Detroit, Michigan. I'm sure Steve deserved this. Though I never got the pleasure of seeing this production, he always made me laugh when he played "Bart" on DAYS.

SOD article about Alice Memorial

June 29th issue of SOD, courtesy of Daytime Royalty

The week begins with Lucas’ return to Salem. He brings Allie to see her great-grandmother, who has taken a turn for the worse. Meanwhile, Alice’s trademark doughnuts are being baked in the kitchen, and Melissa & Jennifer work on a family scrapbook.

At the hospital, Lexie is stunned to see Mike Horton, who came into town to see Alice, but got in a car accident on the way home. Maggie then delivers the grim news to everyone that Alice has died.

A devastated Hope breaks down to Doug. “Hope is very upset at the thought that Bo and Hope aren’t together and that’s what Alice is going to remember, “ explains Kristian. “Family is everything to Gran and you don’t just walk away without a fight.” Doug assures his daughter that Alice always held out hope that the Bradys would reconcile.

The town gathers for a graveside memorial, where Alice’s nearest and dearest get a chance to remember her. “It’s not a typical church setup; they simulate an outside set,” reports Bryan Dattilo. “We’re not all at a podium giving our speeches about Alice Horton. I thought that’s what was going to be and it’s not. I think it is a great way they put it together. They gave me a nice, little speech. Kudos to the writers of DAYS for their brilliant honoring of Frances Reid. I was happy to be there.” Melissa Reeves adds, “It will be great for the fans because they weren’t at the memorial at NBC; they didn’t really get to see all the memories of her.” Kristian Alfonso praises, “The writers did a really beautiful job and captured what each character meant to Gran.”

After the funeral, Kim makes a startling discovery in the crowd – Shane. “It’s a classic moment,“ says Patsy Pease. “She has been asking about him, she wanted him to be there in the hospital when she had leukemia, she listened for his footsteps. She never stopped loving him, but the last thing she wants to tell him is how much she has needed him.”

As for one of Salem’s other favorite pairs, “Hope and Bo have a little bit of a tender moment at the gravesite and she asks if he’ll come back to the house, “ previews Kristian. “She says, ‘Gran would have wanted that.’ And he comes back without Carly – because there is no place for Carly right now. And then Hope overhears Bo talking to Abe and Roman about taking over the case, which, of course, ignites Hope’s fury. It drives that wedge between them again.”

And then the lights go out in the Horton home. “After coming back downstairs, Hope’s the only one left in the house, “ says Kristian. “Gary Tomlin said to me, ‘It’s probably the last time we’ll see the Horton house,’ so he had me walk thought the living room and take it all in, the moments that were shared there when Hope was just a little girl and all the advice and laughter. And then I walk out the door. It’s very sad to think that it would be the last time, but how could we ever be there without Frances?”

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My comments: Sounds like a Shane/Kim reunion is definitely in the cards. Thrilled about that! I was hoping a Bo/Hope reunion would also happen, seeing as Alice was instrumental many times in helping them out in times of trouble. It would have been a nice element of rebuilding a relationship after loss...but, hey, I'm not the headwriter. Very sad to hear that this is going to be the end of the Horton house. One more piece of DAYS history destroyed.

Rating the Alice Horton Returns, Part 1

Jennifer. Always a fan of Melissa Reeves. It's nice to hear all the "Jack" references which really makes me miss Matthew Ashford as well. I liked that DAYS acknowledged the history of Jennifer with Bo, Hope and Carly. I did not like how Jennifer and Sami were suddenly BFFs when they have had a cantankerous relationship for years. More rewriting of history to make Sami look like a younger version of Good Girl Marlena.

Shane. I love Charles Shaughnessy. He's a breath of fresh air to the show, but I'm ready for him to get out of that jail. He needs to be reunited with Kimberly rather than be stuck with Rafe. There's only 10 episodes of him, after all.

Marie. Maree Cheatham is an actress that was before my time of watching DAYS; but I love what I'm seeing of her so far. I wish the spunky lady would stay on the show because we need more Hortons.

Bill and Laura. Interesting that the whole Kate/Bill/Laura triangle is being dusted off and put up out there again. Again, this reminds me that lately it's been this whole resurgence of 1990s DAYS on the show again. John Martin is not quite the late great Ed Mallory, but so far I like what I see. I confess I'm not much of a Jamie Lyn Bauer fan, but maybe this time I can adapt.