Good News for All My Children and One Life To Live fans!

Read the official press release from ABC/Disney below:

ABC LICENSES ITS ICONIC SOAPS “ALL MY CHILDREN” AND “ONE LIFE TO LIVE
TO PROSPECT PARK

EXCLUSIVE MULTI-YEAR, MULTI-PLATFORM DEAL ALLOW THE SOAPS’ STORIES TO CONTINUE BEYOND THEIR FINAL AIRDATES ON ABC

BURBANK, CA – July 7, 2011 – ABC has licensed its iconic soaps, “All My Children” and “One Life to Live” to Prospect Park, it was announced today by Brian Frons, President, Daytime Disney ABC Television Group & Janice Marinelli, President, Disney/ABC Domestic Television and Rich Frank & Jeff Kwatinetz of Prospect Park. The exclusive multi-year, multi-platform deal enables the soaps’ stories to continue beyond their finale dates on ABC. ABC will broadcast its final episode of “All My Children” on Friday, September 23rd and will air the final episode of “One Life to Live” in January, 2012.

The licensing agreement, brokered by Disney/ABC Domestic Television Group, enables Prospect Park to continue production of “All My Children” and “One Life to Live” beyond their life on ABC. Prospect Park will produce and deliver the two long-running programs to consumers via online formats and additional emerging platforms including internet enabled television sets. Under the terms of the arrangement, the programs will continue to be delivered with the same quality and in the same format and length. Additional details of the new productions and tune-in will be forthcoming from Prospect Park.

“We are privileged to continue the legacy of two of the greatest programs to air on daytime television, and are committed to delivering the storylines, characters and quality that audiences have come to love for over 40 years. ‘All My Children’ and ‘One Life to Live’ are television icons, and we are looking forward to providing anytime, anywhere viewing to their loyal community of millions,” said Frank and Kwatinetz. “Technology changes the way the public can and will view television shows. Now that there are so many devices available in addition to television sets, viewers are taking advantage of watching shows where ever they are and on any number of devices. The driving force in making the switch and attracting new audiences is to have outstanding programs that people want to watch. We believe that by continuing to produce the shows in their current hour format and with the same quality, viewers will follow the show to our new, online network.”

“’All My Children’ and “One Life to Live’ are iconic pieces of television history that captivated millions of fans since their beginning over 40 years ago,” said Frons. “Each of the shows have made an indelible mark on our culture’s history and informed our consciousness in their own way. We are so glad Prospect Park has assumed the mantel for these shows and that they will continue for the fans.

Marinelli continued, “From the time the shift in the daytime strategy was announced, our hope was to find a new home for these treasured shows. We are thrilled to license them to Prospect Park so the stories of life in Pine Valley and Llanview can continue to be told for the passionate and loyal fans that enjoy watching each day.”

“I’m just so happy that ABC found a home where the legacies of ‘All My Children’ and ‘One Life To Live’ can continue. I’m excited for their future with Prospect Park,” added Agnes Nixon, creator of both ‘All My Children’ and ‘One Life to Live’. “It takes a lot of living to make a soap opera a serial, and the wonderful teams on both shows have done just that. Together, we are a big family that keeps going, and I’m looking forward to working alongside these wonderful people as we ensure that the shows will continue with all the love and excitement we’ve always had. I also am so happy for our loyal fans, whom we love so much, and who have been so supportive over the last 40 plus years.”

Prospect Park is a media and production company founded in 2009 by entertainment industry veterans Jeffrey Kwatinetz and former Disney Studios head Rich Frank. Along with successful film and music divisions, the company’s television group has numerous shows in development and breakout network hits airing including Royal Pains and Wilfred.

In April, ABC announced that it was expanding the focus of its daytime lineup to include more programming that is informative and authentic and centers on transformation, food and lifestyle. “The Chew,” an innovative and groundbreaking daily talk show that celebrates and explores life through food, will premiere on September 26th. “The Revolution,” a daily show about health and lifestyle transformations will replace “One Life to Live” in January 2012.

“All My Children” has revolved around the lives of the residents of fictional Pine Valley, a town which closely resembles the Philadelphia Main Line. “All My Children” took home the 1998 Emmy-award for Outstanding Drama Series, the third time the show received this top honor, having also garnered the award in 1994 and 1992. “All My Children” has received more than 30 Emmy Awards and consistently distinguishes itself in the field of daytime drama. The show has historically been committed to and is often the first to tackle social issues, focusing on such topics as AIDS, abortion, cochlear implants, teenage alcoholism, racial bias, acquaintance rape, spousal abuse, homosexuality, Reyes syndrome, Vietnam MIAs, drug abuse, the risks of motherhood over 40, safe sex, pet therapy and organ donations, among others. The show made television history airing daytime television’s first same-sex kiss between two lesbian characters as well as daytime television’s first same sex wedding between two women. The show was the first to chronicle the coming out story of a transgender woman and to cast a real life Iraq war vet who’s story reflected his real life experiences and injuries incurred in combat.

“All My Children” premiered on the ABC Television Network on January 5, 1970, as a half-hour show; seven years later it expanded to an hour. Julie Hanan Carruthers is executive producer.

Also created by Agnes Nixon, the Emmy Award-Winning “One Live to Live” is set in the fictional town of Llanview, which is modeled on a Philadelphia suburb. “One Life to Live” debuted on The ABC Television Network July 15, 1968 as a half hour show. Ten years later, it grew to a full hour in 1978.

“One Life to Live” has been lauded for its groundbreaking exploration of social issues, diverse canvas, award-winning performances and innovative storylines. Along with the history-making week of live shows in May 2002, “One Life to Live” is responsible for many “firsts” in Daytime television, including stories of interracial romance, illiteracy, medical misdiagnosis, racial prejudice, gang violence and teen pregnancy. The show received mass critical acclaim for its 1992 homophobia storyline, which captured national headlines when it introduced the character of a gay teen (played by then unknown Ryan Phillippe) and culminated with the emotional display of the Names Project AIDS Memorial Quilt. “One Life to Live” was honored by the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) with the Outstanding Daytime Drama Award in 1993, and again in 2005 and 2010.

In 2002, the show won its first-ever Daytime Emmy Award in the Outstanding Drama Series category, and was nominated again in 2007 and 2008. Created by Agnes Nixon, “One Life to Live” debuted on July 15, 1968 and marked its 10,000th episode on August 17, 2007. Frank Valentini executive produces.

Ken Ziffren of Ziffren Brittenham advised Prospect Park on the deal and the company is represented by Skip Paul at Centerview Partners LLC.

A CALL TO RALLY THE SOAP TROOPS IN A NEW MISSION…

Hi there.

It’s been along, strange week hasn’t it? So, let’s get down to business and have a serious, adult discussion.

I’ve got a few ideas. Let me clarify, WE have a lot of ideas. Some are good. Others are subject to debate.

But before we take this journey, let’s get a few things straight.

Since 1999, a group of soap opera fans have tried to show to the industry and fan base that the business model used for broadcasting soap operas just did not fit this new age of information. We warned in 1999 that without a serious look at changing the paradigm, soap operas could be dead in a decade.

Well, I hate to say we told you so, but… now is not the time for such silliness.

In the last 7 days there has been an explosion of fan efforts being organized. And I have to say, just as many expected, the ABC fan base doesn’t let us down when it comes to going off in a thousand different directions. And that’s what we need to change – NOW!

In the last 7 days a group of people behind the scenes have been working 12 – 18 hours a day to sort all this out. We’ve reached a few conclusions which seem to work. Unfortunately the time we’ve spent putting out fires caused by several fan groups has prevented us from putting something together for you to see more quickly. So, let’s answer a few questions so you get where we are coming from…

Why haven’t the actors come forward from OLTL and AMC?

If you have to even ask that question, you don’t get it. These actors have built their careers in a genre which has never, I repeat – NEVER, received the respect and acclaim it deserved. These most professional of their profession have been marginalized, trivialized and held back from illustrious acting careers because studios AND the public think soap actors are hacks. Now, WE don’t think that way. But the soap fan base has shrunken so much our impact on media buyers and corporations is at an all time low. The actors who are currently employed are in a tenuous position. If they speak publicly about what they are really feeling they risk future acting opportunities. And, let’s face it, with 4 soaps left – the character pool is drying up fast! Many of these seasoned actors are at the stage of their lives where they just don’t please the studio executives. They’re not “youthful” enough. They don’t have the well defined abs. Like it or not the marketability of an actor is more dependent on the size of erection a studio executive gets in response to an actor’s looks. I know it sounds cold. But that’s pretty much where it’s at. Ironically, media buyers and corporate executives really don’t understand the American viewing audience at all. But all of this notwithstanding, we’ve reached out to these actors. And we have made it very clear we have their backs. We will do everything we can to reinvigorate a genre in need of revitalization!

Do you have any idea what’s being said backstage?

Yes and no. I’ve been in touch with a few. In some cases I have been in touch with people who are willing to work with us on behalf of the actors. There has been one resounding message we’ve been receiving behind the scenes all week – there MUST be one central organized effort which includes ALL fans of daytime from every show and every network. That’s right. This is the consensus we’ve found. And when the time is right as the dust settles, you will see actors come forward to endorse whatever business model ends up getting shopped to the right people.

What about what Oprah said and what about OWN?

Oprah has made her position clear. She’s in business. She’s a one woman industry. And though she comes from meager means, her rise to the top of her ladder has isolated her from much of that which she experienced in her younger years. The way I see it my Granny said it best – “out of sight, out of mind”. Oprah won’t be on air five days a week in a syndicated talk show. And while she may have her OWN network, the fact of the matter is Oprah as a talk show is more marketable than Oprah the network. She’s been part of the American landscape for 25 years and her rise in the beginning had EVERYTHING to do with soap. She somehow has lost sight of it. Unfortunately, one of ABC Daytime’s staunchest allies over the years – Rosie O’Donnell – is now part of the Oprah Empire. And, as a result, the silence is deafening. As I’ve said so many times – connect the dots. Oprah has had an amazing impact on the American experience. Thanks to her creativity and vision she has influenced millions of Americans and enhanced their lives through entertainment and subtle education. We owe much to her, That being said, she’s made her position clear so we must move on.

How can we get ABC to change their position?

We can’t. Deal with it. ABC management has to answer to Disney and Disney stockholders. Entertainment in every form is an expensive proposition. In the evolution of broadcasting, networks weren’t ready for the influx of cable networks and Internet influence. While they were operating in outmoded business policies the rest of the industry was coming out with cheap, fast programming which captured the audience. Why is that? The answer is clear. For two generations, American children have been robbed of arts being an integral part of education. They’ve been deprived of studying the philosophers, the Renaissance artists, Shakespeare, the Brownings and so much more. What we’ve ended up with is an audience that knows not the difference between the volatile Kate in Taming of the Shrew and Snooki of Jersey Shore. It’s pathetic what we’ve settled for in entertainment. The amazing programming we experienced in the 50’s and 60’s lives on with remote cable networks that see the intrinsic value of quality programming. The bottom line is our 40 year love affair with ABC Daytime is coming to an end. So, let’s find a way to make this work!

Do fan protests against ABC work?

Sure they do! And under the circumstances it’s more than understandable when emotions are running high that the first thing fans want to do is FIGHT BACK! We get that! But take off your broken heart hat for a moment and put on your business hat. What does slamming ABC in a relentless, child-like manner accomplish? Well, my friends, one word = NOTHING! We have to face facts. If there is the remotest hope of getting homes for All My Children and One Life to Live we have a situation. ABC has the power to say no. And while there is plenty of finger pointing and blame to go around, now is NOT the time to do it. Rather than go on the attack, we need to form a cohesive, sane organization which addresses the central dilemma facing daytime – HOW do we change the business model that has been used all this time? And in cobbling out the solution, we have to look at Brian Frons and Anne Sweeny not as enemies but facilitators. We don’t have to like them or their policies. And, as I’ve said, IF you want to find homes for AMC & OLTL sooner or later you have to sleep with the enemy to accomplish the task. Get it?

What about getting advertisers to boycott ABC Daytime?

Isn’t that an awesome idea? Pardon me while I spit up. First of all, I applaud Hoover for their decision. It’s about time an advertiser took a stand. Don’t kid yourselves because, Houston, we have a problem. If fans get enough advertisers to pull from ABC Daytime, you kill the stories. That’s right. You kill them. Remember, ABC has a responsibility to the stockholders. If the ABC soaps lose a significant number of advertisers, you can bet they will shut down OLTL earlier than planned. And, GH fans, you can kiss Port Charles goodbye. That’s reality, folks. If the shows aren’t producing some revenue during this process, ABC Daytime has no choice but to pull the plug on soap life support. And, once again, if you put on your logic hats, you will see I’m right. Be sensible. Think before you act. I’m the guiltiest of all when it comes to flapping my jaws and saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. In the last 7 days I have had to weigh my words very carefully. And, at times, it’s been killing me because my first reaction is to open up my can of whoop ass and come out fighting.

How did this happen?

How can we lose a show that’s been on the air for 40 years and made ABC so much money? I hate to be the bearer of bad tidings, but look in the mirror. The viewers have a role in this entire thing and don’t want to take any responsibility whatsoever. Reality television has taken up so much of the market because there’s demand for it. When the basic cable channels started hawking their “unscripted” programming, viewers went nuts. Whether it’s Jon & Kate plus 500 or Sarah Palin’s Moose Jaw Ho Down, viewers have settled for cheap train wreck shows because they are “real”. Guess what? The joke is on us. While we’ve been enjoying all these train wrecks because the cast of characters were “real” people, what we didn’t know is the filming, editing and prompting was most definitely scripted. This has been a network’s sleazy maneuver to outsmart the unions. There was a time when soap operas made serious money. And the bulk of those profits were diverted into prime time programming. That’s right. Our “stories” have been prime time television’s corporate welfare. Do the research. Remember Kojak? If it wasn’t for Guiding Light and As the World Turns, Kojak wouldn’t have been sucking a tootsie pop. It would not have been on air at all. As viewing habits changed and more women went to work, soap operas lost their edge. And when it was the soaps that needed the “corporate welfare” the network executives were aghast.

So, are you saying soap opera is dead?

Ha! The $64,000 question! Look at the scripted shows on prime time today. Guess what? You are watching a soap opera and don’t even know it! In the mid 1970’s the networks were trying to find a way to make prime time programming more attractive to viewers. And while some of the shows were actually marketed as prime time soap operas, there is but one simple truth – 95% of the scripted shows adopted the soap opera model of continuing story lines which carried across the broadcast season. Whether it was Falcon Crest or St. Elsewhere you, the American viewer, have been watching scripted programming based upon the soap opera model. How many times have I asked you to “connect the dots”?

As someone who has been a television viewer since I was in cloth diapers, I’ve watched the evolution from a rare perspective. That’s because I was Mom and Dad’s personal telecaptioner. When President Kennedy spoke of the Cuban missile crisis, my hands were flapping. When he was shot, it was me who told them what Chet and David were discussing. When Rachel got pregnant with Steve Frame’s baby on Another World, it was me who told Mom about it. When Tom and Alice Horton learned their son Tommy was alive, I got to deliver the news!

And all through the years I discovered that soap operas weren’t only entertaining – they educated me on many levels. My love of music began because of Julie’s playing Sergio Mendez’ “The Look of Love”. My love of sculpture developed because I was fascinated by Rachel Cory’s ability to mold a pile of dirt and water into something incredibly beautiful. My views on political matters crystallized during the drama of Tara and Phil on All My Children when he was drafted. So, I’ve watched television’s evolution in both daytime and prime time. To answer your question, soap opera never really was dead. It’s just changed and now it’s up to the consumer to facilitate a new model for the daytime end of things.

What about the soap press? Where are THEY in this mess?

Oh come on now. Haven’t you figured it out? These people are in a state on confusion close to that of the actors and crews. Whether you like one member of the press or the other, there’s one thing for certain. The job that has been their dream all their lives is in peril. Imagine the uncertainty. For years they have had to live by the whims of studio heads and media relations “experts”. If a member of the soap press said one word which pissed somebody off, they got the door shut in their face. There it is. Quite simple, isn’t it? And as these members of the soap press sit Shiva in wait of soap’s demise, it’s up to the fans to prove to them that we even have their backs in this cause. The soap magazines have a place in our culture. The knowledge and wisdom the members of the soap press has developed over the years is such a valuable tool in education not only fans but up and coming actors, writers and directors. You see, even members of soap media get little or no respect from their own peers. They deserve better for what they do and they will be gratified if we include them as an overall part of reviving daytime.

OK, enough with the bullshit. What are you thinking?

Thanks, I needed that. Here it is. We have an infrastructure in place to develop one central Internet repository for all fan groups to join together. What we want to do is go live sometime next week. I won’t reveal the domain name just yet. Please bear with me. And, for the love of God, stop going out and buying domain names for your respective cause. The only one getting rich in this mess is GoDaddy. And now I will get on to what we have envisioned for this repository:

PURPOSE: The purpose of this central Internet location is to bring as many of the soap fan groups together as possible in a coordinated effort. This effort isn’t limited to All My Children and One Life to Live. If a production company chooses to adopt the business model being discussed, this could be the basis for the remaining shows going forward. That’s right. The networks could try adapting their current shows to the model we’re putting together.

The main focus of this operation is to provide access to the millions of soap fans across the country. They could come here for information on the industry. We want to provide information about the thousands of web sites out there dedicated to the genre. We want them to be able to learn about the talented folks who host podcasts, using their own time and money to talk about the genre they love. We invite all of you creative people to join in the movement because you are an important element as we move forward.

WHO IS IN CHARGE? Well, initially, I was thinking an election process. Many have come forward and told me this is not a good idea because it would become a popularity contest and we all know how fans get. So, therein lies my dilemma. We’ve got some brilliant people who have come forward to be a part of the “Leadership Council”. With that being said, I need your input. What do you think I should do? If you want me to appoint the five people to this “board of directors” I’m more than willing to do it. But, for the record, I have said many times I cannot serve on the council itself. My role will be as an advisor and to keep the board informed of the progress we are making behind the scenes. You all have to understand here that this is a very delicate time. We aren’t going to repeat our past mistakes and tip our hand from the outset. We’re doing this in a concentrated, planned and reasonable way.

What is the role of the Leadership Council? The five people on the board will be in charge of coordinating fan groups and fan efforts. They will research, debate and establish policies and guidelines for all folks who wish to be a part of this call. We will look to these leaders for guidance and to act on our behalf when the time comes. As I indicated, these people will be privy to information which is not made available to the general public. These directors have to be willing to keep confidential matters limited to their group. As the entire process unfolds, there will be an opportunity to get into the logistics of what’s happening.

Are there other roles available outside the Leadership Council? Well as Sarah Palin says, “You betcha!” While the Leadership Council retains ultimate authority there will be committees established as follows:

Corporate Advertisers: This committee will be responsible for coordinating and guiding fan efforts toward potential advertisers and others who have impact on buying. As the movement begins to come together, we will be looking to corporate sponsors to examine what our mission is and how it will help their own bottom line. Remember, this is a coordinated effort on many levels.

Local Affiliate Campaigns: This committee will be working closely with members at the local level in organizing rallies and letter writing campaigns to local affiliates about the demand for quality, scripted television. And we’re not just limiting this committee to the local network affiliates. We want to go after the cable providers, the local news media and radio.

Letter Writing Campaign: As this plan of action gets into full swing, the Letter Writing Committee will be developing campaigns which focus on specific entities which they may determine as appropriate.

Community Theater & Educational Outreach: This committee will be charged with the task of facilitating a dialog with community theater groups and local educational institutions who have robust dramatic arts programs. As the movement builds, we want to bring Daytime actors, writers and directors into public view to share their own experiences. Their collective experience serves to assist community theaters and enhance dramatic arts teachers in delivering a quality education to our next generaiuon of thespians, writers and artists.

Media Relations: This committee will be in complete control of media and public relations. One member of this committee will be the official spokesperson of the entire organization. The committee will perform research, schedule media interviews and develop press packets which outline the group’s mission and eventually the business model which is adopted.

SO WHAT DO WE DO NOW?

Here’s my suggestion. Spread the word. Read this l-o-n-g document and think about my points. This is a holy week for many people of faith. This weekend should be a time for family, friends and reflection. Spring is here. Be grateful for what you’ve got. Back down. Take a deep breath and think about what we can accomplish if the majority of us work TOGETHER!

Many of us have discussed this at length behind the scenes. We’re on to something here. This time is different from when P&G took AW, GL and ATWT off the air. The mission is clear. A course is being mapped out. We just need patience, maturity and a little bit of restraint right now. If you’re serious about revitalizing a genre which has brought joy and entertainment to millions of viewers over the years – join in! You will be welcomed with open arms. And together we will make an impact.

So stop feeding the rumor mills. Try and refrain from screaming at ABC. Remember, every time a fan or fan group goes after ABC, it is hurting the cast and crew of the shows more than it is hurting the network. If you have questions, email me. All I know is we have an incredible opportunity here to show the stuff we’re made of. And if you’ve ever watched RuPaul, she goes by this mantra, “Don’t f%#k it up!” Well, Ms. Ru, this time we won’t!

Rumors have abounded for weeks….no make that months…that ABC was cancelling One Life To Live or All My Children or….maybe both!

There have also been rumors that ABC will merge the two soaps together!!

Crazy, eh?

Maybe not so much.

We’re not exactly sure WHAT’s going on.

But we’ve heard through very good sources that both soaps are potentially on the chopping block.

We’ve also heard that a decision will come down next month.

Apart from whether you are loving or hating what is going on storyline-wise right now on both soaps (thumbs down for me, but that’s for another day), the thing is that we all, as soap fans, love the genre.

And what we really DON’T want is to have any more soaps cancelled!

So here’s what you need to do. Call, write or e-mail Anne Sweeney. Apparently, she’s the decision maker. Her contact info is listed below.

Anne Sweeney
Co-Chair, Disney Media Networks/
President, Disney-ABC TV
500 S. Buena Vista Street
Burbank, CA 91521
Direct line: 818-569-7700
Fax: 818-569-7678
Email: anne.sweeney@abc.com

So what are you waiting for???

Let the barrage of correspondence begin!!

WHAT has been going on with all of the actor exits on our favorite soap operas recently?????

It seems we need a scorecard these days just to keep up with who’s leaving which soap.

Earlier this month, Mark Hapka, Nathan on Days of Our Lives, got the axe after being involved in a front-burner storyline.

Now we find out that two more Days actors are leaving: Shelley Hennig (Stephanie) and Jay Kenneth Johnson (Philip).

Paula, over at Paula’s Soapbox, discusses the recent DOOL exits and the possible impact on current storylines.

Click here to read her Days blog titled “On the Outs: DOOL.”

Meanwhile in the past few days, there’s been a plethora of exits on the ABC soaps.

Melissa Claire Egan (Annie Lavery/AMC) is leaving. She opted not to renew her contract.

Melissa Claire Egan (Annie/AMC)

THAT is definitely a BIG loss to AMC. Annie added so much to life to the show and Egan was so much fun to watch…particularly when she turned into Crazy Annie!

Egan posted a letter to her fans on her official website.

It says, in part: “After 4 and a half incredible years as a member of the All My Children cast, I have made the extremely difficult decision to leave the Pine Valley family that I have come to love and respect so much.

“It has been an amazing 4 and a half years for me! I have had the privilege and honor of working with the most talented and fun cast, crew, producers and directors imaginable. I have learned so much from them and am forever indebted. To wake up each morning and love going to work is a true blessing for which I am unbelievably grateful!”

And over at One Life To Live, Brittany Underwood (Langston/OLTL) has been fired.

Another BIG loss….I so enjoyed watching Langston grow from the “freak” in high school into a Cramer woman.

Perhaps the biggest shocker of all….

Rebecca Herbst, who has played Elizabeth Webber FOR-ever on General Hospital, was let go.

Rebecca Herbst (Elizabeth)

Whhhhhaaaaatttt?????

Although, I have to say, the writers have totally ruined the character over the past several years….they turned Elizabeth…who survived a brutal rape all those years ago…who used to be a strong, kind, giving person…into a jealous, insecure – and I might add annoying – character.

Be that as it may, I still loved to watch Herbst onscreen because of her talent.

Not to mention that the character is steeped in so much GH history!

Paula, over at Paula’s Soapbox, has written a blog about her take on Herbst’s firing and speculates on how Elizabeth will be written out.

Paula also discusses how Elizabeth’s exit will impact the characters in her universe – like Lucky, Nikolas, Jason and her children.

Click here to read Paula’s blog about Herbst’s exit: “Farewell to Possibilities: GH.”

When last we saw Aidan Devane on All My Children, he had been sent to jail for kidnapping charges after holding Kendall against her will.

The whole obsessive love for Kendall gone awry had fans going – huh???

Many fans complained that the writers made Aidan do things that were totally out of character…He was a good guy for most of his 8-year run on AMC…that is until the show was moved from New York City to L.A. last January and Aidan was written off the show the month before – much to his fans chagrin!!

I caught up with Aidan’s portrayer – the incredibly gracious Aiden Turner – Sunday at opening day of International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, FL.

Aiden Turner at polo.
Photo: Michele Dargan

Turner is known to frequent the Palm Beach area now and again as his friend, Cedric DuPont, owns an antiques store by the same name in West Palm Beach.

Aiden, who now lives in L.A., flew in to town for a New Year’s Eve party.

Another friend of his, Shamin Abas, handles the public relations for the International Polo Club Palm Beach.

Aiden stomping divots at halftime.
( Lauren Lieberman / LILA PHOTO)

It was Aiden’s second time at polo.

With the scene set….It was an absolutely picture perfect South Florida day…Let the interview begin.

photo: Y.A. Teitelbaum

First and foremost, Aiden wants his fans to know how much he appreciates them and their support.

Regarding the twist in his final storyline – when Aidan first rescued Kendall from the hospital in order to help her avoid a murder charge and then turned it into a kidnapping, Aiden agreed with the fans.

“It’s a really lame story with a capital L and I found it to be a real shame,” Aiden said. “It made my character do a 180. As I was learning the lines I thought, this is not the character that I worked so hard on.”

Aiden described his character as being “full of integrity. I really liked the character. I really loved playing him. Sometimes he rubbed off on me. They used to write me really cool and then the writers changed and they put a different spin on the character. But it was a good 8 years.”

On the up side, being off contract allows Aiden to pursue other opportunities.

“When you’re on contract, you can’t do anything else,” Aiden said. “It’s like a marriage. You can’t date anyone else. I wouldn’t be able to do a movie.”

Which is where he would like to go next.

“I’d like to do movies like “The Bourne Supremacy” things like that,” he said. “I’d love to do comedy….action movies….things like that.”

Aiden is one of three finalists to replace Andy Whitfield in the lead role of “Spartacus,” the Starz television series. Whitfield withdrew from role in Season two, when his non-Hodgkin Lymphoma returned.

Aiden and two other finalists for the role were flown to New Zealand for a screen test with the cast. He’s in a kind of limbo, because there has been no decision made. Aiden said they may not recast the role at all and scrub shooting the next season.

“It’s not going to be an easy thing to recast, because so many people are in love with the character,” he said. “It’s a hard thing for another actor to take on and it’s risky for the actor when someone is so loved.”

Aiden also shot a Mercedes commercial, where he plays a James Bond-type of character. That commercial is coming out in March…so look for it.

As far as AMC goes, he misses going to the set each day as well as the comaraderie and support among the cast and crew.

Aiden Turner (Aidan), Rebecca Budig (Greenlee) and Cameron Mathison (Ryan). (ABC/LOU ROCCO)

“I was inspired by being with such a talented cast…Everybody there did such a great job,” he said. “It really is like a family.”

Is there a chance Aidan Devane will return to Pine Valley?

“Yes. There is a chance, he said. “It’s up to ABC to approach me. There’s a lot of people on FB and in soap magazines that want me to come back. I’m open to coming back, but it’s really up to ABC to make the phone call.”

On competing on Dancing with the Stars, Aiden had nothing but praise for his professional dance partner, Edyta Sliwinska.

Aiden Turner and Edyta Sliwinska on DWTS

“It was a great experience. It was tough… 7 to 8 hours a day…Going from nothing to dancing and doing it in front of 24 million people.”

Silas Kain

My name is Silas and I’m a soap opera aficionado.

There I said it and I have no shame.

And that’s how I’d like to begin my relationship with you.

A couple of weeks ago, Michele asked if I would consider being a contributor to Soapbox1. I didn’t have to think about it for long – because Michele gets it. She understands the intimate relationship fans have to soap opera.

So, in this introductory piece for Soapbox1, I’d like to take a moment of your time and explain what it is about Soap Opera that I respect and admire. And when you’re done, I hope you seriously consider what I’ve written and share your thoughts here at Soapbox1.

It really doesn’t matter which soaps you may watch, we all share a common bond. So with all that being said, a glimpse into the life of a soap opera fanatic…

It began for me as a little boy.

John F. Kennedy was assassinated on the weekend of my 8th birthday (please don’t do the math). Suddenly this little 3rd grader was sitting in front of the television translating the words of Cronkite, Huntley and Brinkley to his deaf parents. It was a quick education. But that baptism of fire caused me to become extremely interested in current events, the American political system and History.

The following summer I would come in from morning play to capture the 15 minute soap opera Love of Life. Remember them? Bruce & Vanessa Sterling? Christopher Reeve? Life on a college campus? Sure, it was quirky – almost silly at times. But the lives of the people in Rosehill, New York was completely fascinating to me on so many levels and for so many reasons.

That was a contentious year – the aftermath of John F. Kennedy.

The week following Mother’s Day 1964 would transform my life on so many levels. That was the week my mother began watching Another World.

Remember we’re at the Summer of 1964.

And by the end of that summer, this little boy learned what abortion was – thanks to Pat Matthews and the vision of Irna Philips. Sure that was too much for a kid – but remember, I was my parents’ human closed-captioning device.

From that summer I was baptized by the families of Bay City into a world of bumps and curves which lasted until that final show in June 1999. For 35 years I followed the lives of the Matthews, Davis, Cory and Carrington families. I laughed and cried with Wally, Felicia and Cass. When the show bid their farewell to Mackenzie Cory, I wept openly with my mom. It’s OK for a man to have feelings. I learned that from soap opera.

You see those shows were my education into the real world.

My parents did their best, but they viewed the world without the “noise”. They had innocence and as hard as they worked at being parents – their innocence and sheltering from their own families did not really prepare them for the world of the 60’s.

I grew up fast. And, in retrospect, I wouldn’t give up a thing. Every rise and fall. A marriage. Ups, downs, near fatal illness – all of it. I wouldn’t change a thing because all of it was but a dress rehearsal for this stage of my growing, fulfilling life.

And through it all, the cast of “my story” would be guests in my living room 5 days a week. They became my friends, my teachers, my guides.

Take All My Children, for instance. When Tara and Phil went through the trauma of the Vietnam War, I was right there with them. That’s where I got my attitudes against the war.

Tara Martin (Karen Lynn Gorney) and Phil Brent (Richard Hatch)

When I was introduced to the character of Erica Kane – she was a spoiled self-absorbed brat being raised by the ever loving Mona. While everyone was abuzz about Erica being raised by a “single” parent – I found it interesting from a different perspective.

My grandmother raised 10 children on her own. My dad was the product of a single parent having lost his father at 11 months. He never knew his father and I never understood my grandmother’s “hardness” until Mona Kane. She made me understand my grandmother in a whole new light.

Frances Heflin as Mona Kane

Of course, there was Ryan’s Hope.

My other Grandmother – the Irish Catholic one — and Maeve Ryan were so alike it was almost frightening. The only difference? Grandma had the faith of Maeve but the spunk of Mary.

Ryan's Hope

But it was tough to keep up in the 70’s. School work was a priority and there were many familial events which would be yet another transformation.

There was a constant.

The stories.

Those silly little daytime dramas which were packed with knowledge like no other program on television.

At this point you must be asking yourself why I’m weaving this broadcloth? Where am I going? Relax. It all comes together — and when it does I hope a light bulb burns brightly above your head.

If you’re under 50 you probably don’t know much about the 60’s. But life was different back then.

Most mothers were at home raising their families. And while they watched their stories in the afternoons they would learn about appliances, detergents, furniture and life. The classic American soap opera became a classroom in millions of living rooms across America. Don’t laugh just yet, my dear. I’m uttering a profound truth.

Twelve years ago a small group of Another World fans got together in an Internet campaign to save our show. Of course, it didn’t happen. But what blossomed were friendships and bonds that remain strong to this very day. And we had the opportunity to share notes over the years.

The first two years after AW, we held reunions in New York City. The AW stars came out – at their own expense. They spoke to us, encouraged us but most of all they were grateful on so many levels for the loyalty, the respect and the love we shared.

In 2001 we got the Governor of Connecticut to proclaim Linda Dano Day. She went on The View the day before our 2nd Reunion. Joy Behar thought it was kind of dumb but that’s Joy Behar. She couldn’t understand the daytime dynamic – she wasn’t really part of it. But this small group of AW loyalists accomplished something astounding. And we accomplished these feats by learning from Rachel & Mac Cory, Ada Downs, Felicia Gallant and Donna Love. Those people were role models to us – the simple folk. And we became determined in our goal, we had the steadfastness of Ada, the creativity of Rachel and the loyalty of Liz Matthews.

Interwoven in my 35 years of Another World was my interest in Days of Our Lives, All My Children, One Life to Live and General Hospital.

Another World was and always will the ultimate. So when I make commentary on the shows I view today, remember I was spoiled by a band of actors and writers who were in many respects the Shakespeares of their genre.

So, that’s why I am a soap fan. Not only was I entertained but I was educated on life in so many respects – as each of you is a beneficiary of that education without realizing it!

If you are young man or woman reading this, you may not know it but your grandmother or mom may have been a soap fan. And some of the wisdom they imparted upon you came from what they learned.

Like I said. Soap fans and cast have a different dynamic. They’re guests in our homes. They come on screen 5 days a week. And, in the evolution of the characters’ lives, we learn from their experiences.

A story line such as interracial romance on One Life to Live served to change attitudes on so many levels. When OLTL went out on a limb there was such disdain! Yet today, interracial romances are no novelty. They are the fabric of soap.

The rape of Laura on General Hospital became fodder of discussions in millions of homes. The abortion of Pat Matthews in 1964 had equal impact. The bottom line is women across America were learning more about the realities of life through the stories created by visionary writers.

Do the research. As far as I am concerned, women would not have achieved that which has been achieved without the influence of American soap opera. While most thought of the typical soap fan being an overweight bon-bon devouring woman, lounging like Jean Harlow across a couch – there’s the truth.

Once upon a time, All My Children was shown on college campuses across America. Luke & Laura’s Wedding dominated the entertainment headlines like no other.

Luke (Tony Geary) and Laura (Genie Francis)

Days of Our Lives attempted to introduce a gay character – Eric Peters — at a time when gay rights were just an idea. The fan backlash was so horrific, Days writers reversed course for the character.

It would be years before soap would dare enter the forbidden zone. Remember Capitol? Believe it or not, many female political science lovers were inspired by Wally McCandless and Myrna Clegg.

What Daytime accomplished most is that it served as a vehicle for women to come into their own. Were it not for the strong, driven female role models of soap opera such as Maggie Powers, Dr. Althea Davis and Mona Aldrich, I dare say the evolution of women’s parity in our society would remain delayed.

So, young men and women, believe it or not your lives would be remarkably different today were it not for the genre known as Daytime. As Shakespeare revolutionized storytelling in his time, the pioneers – Irna Philips, Agnes Nixon and countless others have helped shape and shift our attitudes toward contemporary life.

To be honest with you, my ultimate fantasy is to have the Museum of Television & Radio do a serious symposium on the influence of Daytime on American society from 1955 – 2000.

While Daytime seems to be dying these days, I hope to inspire you to understand that which I’ve known for years. I hope you will come to appreciate Daytime’s stellar history and realize that soap opera remains an interesting facet of our culture which needs a little love right now.

And maybe, just maybe, I’ll get you to return to one of those stories you stopped watching.

Reality TV may be the rage these days but there’s nothing “real” about it.

Those who write the lines and create the characters of daytime have a keen sense of our society and world. And in their own little way they bring those things to the screen every day, every week. And, in many cases, the situations the writers create are more real and relative to our lives than that of Snookie and da Situation.

Another goal is to have you come out of the closet.

There’s nothing wrong with being a soap fan. You may be a housewife or retired homemaker. You may be a working gal in a law office or the head of a corporation. You’re a law professor, banker and, yes, even a physician.

Soap fans come from all walks of life. And plenty of them are male – gay and straight. Get over it.

Soap opera is the diversion – the non-pharmaceutical which calms, infuriates and makes one consider options.

Every couple of weeks I’ll be writing a piece for Soapbox1. I’ll be talking about story lines, actors, writing and more. I’m going to be coming from a perspective of 35 years’ intimate experience with the world of Daytime.

I’ll call them like I see them – you may not agree. And when you don’t — I hope you’ll get in to the discussion. I’m human. Perhaps you have a perspective I haven’t considered.

If there’s something you want me to write about, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m full of myself. There’s nothing better than bellowing out an opinion. That’s the Irish in me.

Perhaps you’ve finally reached that point of enlightenment which suggests that soap opera did, indeed, have an impact on your life even before you knew Todd and Tea or Sonny Corinthos.

Perhaps from these story lines that we discuss, we can come up with the writer’s rationale. That’s another beautiful aspect of being a soap fan. We get it. We get the actors and we know when a writer screws up history. If a producer changes, we’re the first to cast our ballots. If a costume designer changes – we know it.

Soap fans are the ultimate focus group underused by media companies. We’re the ones who can tell you everything right down to the sets or change in make-up artists.

We’re up close and personal.

And – we are the ultimate consumers of advertisers’ products. Think about that the next time you go shopping. Those companies who sponsor OUR shows deserve our response.

So, thanks for reading.

The next column I post will be all One Life to Live – on many levels because I am on FIRE at the direction I suspect they’re taking.

Adieu.

[NOTE: Silas Kain hosts the weekly BlogTalk radio show Delibernation, where he and his guests discuss a variety of topics that include "politics, personal empowerment and what each of us can do to make this world a better place for the next generation."
Michele will be his guest Thursday at 11 p.m. EST to discuss "The Influence of Soap Opera on American Culture."]

Ryan or David? Who should Greenlee choose?

One of the biggest front burner story lines on All My Children is the Ryan/Greenlee/David triangle, and there are a few reasons why I like it.

I’ll be the first to say that I don’t like Ryan (Cameron Mathison). I like the actor, but the character just doesn’t do it for me, anymore.

When I first started watching the show, I really liked Ryan, but recently he’s become too much. The only thing they could do to make him more of the Super Hero, I-Need-A-Damsal-In-Distress kind of guy that they are making him into, would be if they dressed him in a cape.

Then there’s David (Vincent Irizarry).

If you caught Monday’s episode, Greenlee mentioned that David has done some rather, ahem, bad things in the past. But now, they are married out of convenience, and David has fallen head over heels in love (which can be a dangerous thing).

Rebecca Budig (Greenlee) and Vincent Irizarry (David) Photo: Adam Larkey/ABC

They have history too – he was once her brother-in-law, while she was married to Leo (Josh Duhamel)

Now, David and Ryan are fighting to be the man that Greenlee (Rebecca Budig) comes home to every night.

And here is why it’s a good story.

There are two distinct camps. Those who like Ryan and Greenlee (dubbed Rylee by fans) and those who like David and Greenlee (dubbed GreeD by fans).

Rebecca Budig (Greenlee) and Cameron Mathison (Ryan). Photo: ABC/Carol Kaelson

Both of these groups have a big following, and I can’t help but compare it to 2008 when there was a split between the Rylee fans and the Ailee fans (Aidan and Greenlee). That story was done nicely.

Now, the downside to writing this well: If Greenlee ends up with Ryan, GreeD fans will be upset; and if Greenlee ends up with David, Rylee fans will be upset.

So where do you stand on the debate?

Do you enjoy the breath of fresh air that is GreeD, or do you believe the history between Ryan and Greenlee will pull them back together?

Who is the love of Greenlee’s life?

I made my stand on who I think Greenlee should be with on my All My Children post about new couples, but where do you stand?

When you think of business rivals on All My Children, no one crosses your mind except for Palmer Cortlandt and Adam Chandler, who have been rivals for decades.

But last week, we said goodbye to both of these business titans, as Palmer (James Mitchell) died and Adam (David Canary) left town with Brooke (Julia Barr).

Palmer’s funeral was nicely done.
They used clips that James Mitchell had ad libbed during his final scenes in the anniversary special, mixed with flashbacks of him in his prime.

I like the way that they used Palmer’s death to realistically affect Adam. It showed him how short life is.

Here’s a really nice tribute to James Mitchell.

And seeing Nina (Taylor Miller) and Daisy (Gillian Spencer) again was great. I just wish that James Mitchell and Palmer didn’t have to die for it to happen.

But I can tell you that if you had told me last year, we’d have a show where Nina, Daisy, Brooke, and Jackson were in the vast majority of the scenes, I would’ve called you nuts.

But AMC put all these vets, and more, in to make the memorial special.

The three best parts of the memorial were when Brooke said to kiss her aunt Phoebe, when Erica (Susan Lucci) pointed out that heaven is in for quite a time with Palmer, Myrtle and Mona all together, and, of course, when Dixie (Cady McClain) welcomed him into heaven. I was even able to look past the hair coloring change that made no sense.

And then, we have Adam, who skipped town with Brooke after finding Annie and JR in bed.

Brooke (Julia Barr) and Adam (David Canary) Photo: ABC/Rick Rowell

I like the way they took Adam off the screen with Brooke by his side.

And yes, I like the fact that Annie (Melissa Claire Egan) is now free to be with JR, as I think they are great (see my column about AMC’s new couples).

An era is ending on AMC with the loss of Palmer and Adam.

But it’s been a fun ride watching it end.

The new writing at All My Children is evident now more than ever with the heating up of couples we never would have expected.

When Adam (David Canary) and Annie (Melissa Claire Egan) got married, we all knew she’d cheat on him. But we all thought it would be with his nephew, Scott (Adam Mayfield), not with Adam’s own son, JR (Jacob Young).

David Canary (Adam), Melissa Claire Egan (Annie) and Jacob Young (JR) Photo: ABC/Carol Kaelson

JR and Annie are, frankly put, hot.

J.R. isn’t as interesting when paired with boring Marissa (Brittany Allen). Not that Allen is a bad actess, but the writers didn’t need to make her Babe 2.0. She isn’t a very interesting character. And we know that they do have feelings for each other.

Then, we have David (Vincent Irizarry) and Greenlee (Rebecca Budig).

AMC is going back to basics in this marriage of convenience turned into a love story.

Hey, it worked for Zach and Kendall, why not for David and Greenlee.

I personally find David and Greenlee (dubbed GreeD by online fans) to be great. They’ve certainly mixed it up having Greenlee marry her former brother-in-law.

Rebecca Budig (Greenlee) and Vincent Irizarry (David) Photo: Adam Larkey/ABC

And even if the focus of this entry is about new couples, I’d like to give a final shout out to Alicia Minshew (Kendall) and Thorsten Kaye (Zach) on their brief return.

Finally, there’s one last person to mention.

Since the new writing regime, we’ve been seeing a lot more of Jackson (Walt Willey). And he has been sharing screentime with Erica (Susan Lucci), of course.

But with Krystal (Bobbie Eakes) going to work for him, will Erica find competition?

Jackson (Walt Willey) and Krystal (Bobbie Eakes) Photo: Michael Yarish/ABC

AMC is changing it up in many ways, but will these new (and possibly up and coming) couples, will it enter a new era of greatness?

By LuAnne

My friend Linda, who I met at Super Soap Weekend a few years ago, picked me up at Newark Airport. We immediately hopped on a train into NYC and then took a cab over to the All My Children studios in hopes of seeing a few soap stars.

We saw Melissa Claire Egan (Annie) and David Canary (Adam) from a distance. After David went in, one of my favorite veterans came out with a beautiful bouquet of roses – it was Julia Barr, who played Brooke English for many years. Julia told us she was there to film scenes for the AMC 40th Anniversary Special. She graciously stopped for a quick picture, and then went on her way.

Next we saw both Chrishell Stause (Amanda) and Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake). They stopped briefly to talk to us and signed some pictures. Chrishell was absolutely beautiful, and Ricky was looking pretty good too!

Linda and I then decided to walk over to the One Life To Live studios. We stayed for awhile, and finally were rewarded when down the street came Brian Kerwin, who plays Charlie. Brian stayed to talk and take pictures for about 10 minutes. He was so pleasant, and seemed genuinely happy to talk to us. It was a good day in NYC!

The next day, Linda drove us to the Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club in Staten Island for an AMC Fan Event.

Four of the nicest and most attractive men from AMC then walked on stage: Vincent Irizarry (Dr. David), Michael E. Knight (Tad) , Darnell Williams (Jesse) and Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake) were welcomed with thunderous applause, screams and whistles. It was awesome to see them 10 feet away!

The first part of the event was a question and answer session. The fans asked about many things, including the upcoming move to Los Angeles.

Vincent said that he would be commuting, at least for the rest of the school year so that his children can stay in their current schools. Michael and Ricky said they were moving to L.A. and Darnell said he was going, but he’s lived in NYC all his life and it would be hard to leave the city.

We found out that Jill Larson (Opal), who is a recurring player, was also moving. The fans were in agreement that the cast should come back to NYC for fan events. The guys answered questions for over an hour, then took a short break before meeting with the VIP fans.

All four of the actors took seats at long tables, and we were able to speak to each of them for a few minutes and get our pictures taken with them. Michael took the most time with the fans, even though he was sick. But they all seemed happy to be there and gave the fans what we came for – a great time!

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