Given the fact that Trevor St. John has brought so much to the role of Todd Manning over the past 8 years, I think it’s insulting that the One Life To Live writers have marginalized his contributions by

A. Trying to make us believe that he was brainwashed to be Todd all this time

And

B. Killing him off as Victor Lord Jr., thereby ending the realm of possibilities there could have been between him and Roger Howarth as his brother, Todd.

Isn’t it enough to take One Life To Live off of our television screen?

Trevor St. John

One would think that might spur the writers to go out with a bang….make these last few months spectacular!

Instead, the fabulous Robin Strasser as Dorian Lord is off our screen (I know there was back surgery involved), along with the equally fabulous Gina Tognoni as Kelly Cramer and the wonderful Tom Degnan as Joey Buchanan.

Now Trevor, as Todd, is gone….as in dead. I knew it was coming as TSJ put a message to his fans on his website saying that his last day of taping was the week of July 18. The guy is a class act.

Que Sera Sera! I see bigger things in Trevor’s future. He’s a great actor who has done lots of other things in primetime television and movies. So he will definitely be fine.

I was so happy to be able to see Trevor one last time after his fan luncheon last month, even though my plane landed too late for me to attend his event. He stayed one hour after the alotted time his event was supposed to end in order to spend as much time as he could with his fans….Now THAT’s a nice guy!

Trevor and me after his fan luncheon last month

Let me say upfront that this is NOT a Trevor vs. Roger column. I think both are wonderful actors and have each made the role of Todd Manning their own.

But let’s just say I was less than happy to hear Roger Howarth was coming back as Todd Manning…no slight to Roger at all.

It’s just that I have come to love the layers in the character that TSJ has brought to our screens.

And, I also have to say, that the more I watched the “Tale of Two Todds” unfold, I became intrigued…. There really WERE so many possibilities.

And when “the man with the scar” finally revealed himself to everyone – but we still weren’t sure who the real Todd was – I really enjoyed the onscreen repartee between Roger and Trevor. They were so much fun to watch together!

Roger Howarth and Trevor St. John "The Two Todds"

Once Irene Manning revealed the “story behind the story” of the brothers…that they were twins, Victor was brainwashed and Todd was held captive, etc. etc….the whole convoluted explanation was insulting to the me as a viewer.

After I invested myself for 8 years in TSJ as Todd – all of a sudden he’s not???

I really identified with Dani (Kelley Missal) and Jack (Andrew Trischetta), who didn’t know the other Todd as their father. I felt the abandonment they felt.

But I also realized that this twist of fate could turn into an incredible opportunity for some seriously great storylines in the struggles for control between Victor and Todd.

But, sadly, that was not to be.

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!!

By Silas Kain

Happy New Year, SoapBox1 fans!

I’m sorry it’s been a while since I’ve submitted an article and for that I apologize.

Anyway, there are three pieces I have in various stages of development.

One of the pieces is about James Franco and his return to General Hospital.

The events of this week have caused me to change my tune a little bit. So with all of that in mind, I’d like to throw something out there for your consideration.

Rebecca Herbst

In the last couple of days, it has been reported Rebecca Herbst has been fired from General Hospital.

As news of her firing spread over the Internet, the fan reaction has been a force to be reckoned with in many circles.

As I watch the Tweets, receive the emails and monitor the conversations, I’ve come to some interesting conclusions.

Now some of you may say I’m off base; others will agree.

That’s OK!

These dynamics happen when opinions are discussed.

As difficult as it is to fathom the removal of Elizabeth Webber from the Port Charles canvas, I see this as an opportunity for General Hospital fans to do something really outside the “norm” – WORK TOGETHER!

Unlike the other soaps remaining on air, there has always been an interesting dynamic among GH fans. I call GH Fans the Democrats of soap fan groups because we consistently shoot ourselves in the proverbial feet without blinking an eye!

There are no more contentious rivalries than between “Liason” and “Jasam” fans.

When I suggested the demise of Sonny Corinthos, I received over 700 hate emails because I was being “mean” to Maurice Bernard.

As I said then, for me this is NEVER about the actors. It’s about story lines and good soap opera.

My friends, sometimes we cross the line between actor and character. It just isn’t healthy and it’s time to take that splash of cold water to wake up!

We have some great actors playing incredible roles on GH who are under utilized and virtually ignored.

Let’s discuss Elizabeth for a minute.

Here we have a character who has been through plenty. She’s a single mother. She is trying to make a home for three toddler boys. She’s a rape victim. She’s had her share of heartbreak and loss.

Who hasn’t?

How different is Elizabeth from many of the women in our country today confronted by similar issues?

Elizabeth is one of the last connections we have to the Webbers and Hardys. She’s been pivotal in the lives of so many in Port Charles to the point that losing her from the canvas is almost as profound a loss as the day we buried Lila Quartermaine.

This brings me to the point of James Franco and what he has done for the genre in the last year.

James Franco

I’ve seen so many negative reactions to the return of Franco.

Yet, the one key issue which never gets discussed by GH fans is how much James Franco has done, which is nothing less than positive for Daytime as a whole.

James has been front and center in entertainment media. He’s co-hosting the Oscars. He’s been on talk shows, Inside the Actors Studio and on press junkets all over the globe.

One question he is asked is “why would you want to do a soap opera of all things?”

His answers may surprise you.

He gets it.

He knows soap actors are among the most professional in their vocation. He respects the exhausting work ethic of soap cast, crew and writers. He’s fascinated by the dynamics and loves General Hospital.

OK, so the majority of fans don’t like Franco the character.

But what about James Franco – the actor?

Doesn’t he deserve a little bit of gratitude from daytime fans? Is the collective dislike for Franco the character a testament to James the actor?

Look, I’d rather be discussing plot lines and other things. But the fan wars I see heating up on the Internet have caused me to focus on this week’s news.

Like her or not, Rebecca Herbst has done a stellar job portraying a flawed character which has not received the adequate attention by the head writers in a long time.

She’s immersed in the lives of many Port Charles characters and her absence from the story will have repercussions.

The long standing feud between “Liason” and “Jasam” has created another situation which encourages fans create a finger pointing campaign at other actors.

GH fans, in some corners of your world there is a need to tone down the rhetoric and ramp up the focus. The negative energy being exerted in all directions only validates the notion that Internet soap fans just don’t count.

We’ve heard from members of the mainstream soap press that network executives find the Internet fan base to be populated by the whiners, trouble makers and are just not worthy of any attention.

Well, most of us know different.

Most soap fans who communicate using the Internet do so in good faith with no ulterior motives except to share impressions of the tales told by the “stories” we watch.

Here we are on a Friday.

What can GH fans do to show their support for Becky Herbst?

Well, we can all start by discontinuing the finger pointing and declaring a cease fire in the perpetual fan wars.

Flooding the email boxes at ABC Daytime will accomplish nothing. Such communications are a waste of time and only result in your indignant letters being delegated to the Trash Bin.

Phone calls to ABC Daytime could help – but I’m not convinced that’s the best approach.

The most effective mechanism to state your case as a General Hospital fan is to write a letter. Keep it brief, logical and ultimately respectful.

Make three copies.

Send one to Brian Frons, a copy to Anne Sweeney, and the last one to the editor of your preferred soap magazine.

I’m going to leave you with a sample of a letter I am writing to Brian Frons. You can take away from it any content you wish. The gist and tone of the letter is what’s most important!

So, here goes:

Dear Mr. Frons:
This week your network announced the termination of Rebecca Herbst from General Hospital citing storyline dictated reasons.

While I am not qualified as a member of ABC management in judging the decision, I am quite qualified as a consistent, loyal viewer of the show. In the last year it’s been obvious that ABC Daytime has experimented in many areas to reinvigorate the gradual decline in soap viewership. The firing of Ms. Herbst seems, on the surface, to exacerbate viewer dissatisfaction.

Since the inception of soap opera, the genre has consistently been denied the respect it deserves. Daytime actors’ capabilities have been marginalized – in studios, among actors and by entertainment media. Yet soap actors defy the odds in employment longevity, payment of union dues and delivering for their respective network five days per week.

The lack of respect for the genre has reached out to the soap viewership as well. Advertisers and studio heads afford minimal respect to their soap fan bases. Soap fans, you see, suffer from a flawed image. The truth is the typical soap viewer is more engaged in all other dynamics – casting, writing, set design, direction and producing. We understand the nuances of what sets producing a soap apart from prime time programming.

Your soap fan base is your greatest focus group which has always been available and never used because those in management are completely misinformed as to the incredible bounty of information which could be forthcoming if a serious, respectful dialog were to take place.

The character of Elizabeth Webber, at the very least, has several potential story lines, which could encourage a resurgence for General Hospital. I understand that soaps are not as profitable as they once were. That being said, you may want to consider something that is completely outside the box of conventional wisdom.

If ABC Daytime management reached out to the very fan base which has kept them in business all these years, they may learn a few things. We understand the dynamics, especially with all the new cable stations which have risen in the last decade. We understand that reality programming and/or talk shows are far cheaper to produce. But these programs do not serve a network well in maintaining viewer loyalty which, in turn, reduces the rates your network can charge for commercial advertising.

In closing, I can only urge you to reconsider the decision with regard to Ms. Herbst. A demonstration of good will on the part of ABC Daytime would be a good step in reaching out to hundreds of thousands of disenfranchised ABC Daytime fans who are concerned about the product. Remember, sir, you are the producer, we are the consumer.

When ABC Daytime broadcasts a quality product, ABC reaps the rewards in ratings, viewer loyalty and Internet chatter. Woven in that tapestry of viewers is a growing resource in Blogs and Podcasts devoted to the genre. If ABC Daytime management took a moment to gauge the true spirit of Internet soap fans, I would refer you to SoapBox1.com, Buzz Worthy Radio or Stardish Radio. What you will learn dispersed through these sites is the sentiment that cheap, low quality programming does not necessarily translate into long term profitability. Listening to your Daytime fan base and asking for our input may very well teach you about who and what we are as typical soap viewers.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,

Silas Kain

And that’s it, folks. That’s my model letter. Let’s just cease the fan wars and work together in an intelligent, professional manner.

Let’s encourage our fellow General Hospital fans to get involved and write their own letters. In the end all it takes is a paper, pen, envelope and stamp to get your message heard. The firing of Rebecca Herbst is an opportunity to show ABC Daytime once and for all, what genuine soap fans are made of! I believe we can accomplish our mission.

End of sermon.

Until next time stay safe, stay healthy and celebrate life!

Where there is life, there IS soap!

By Michele Dargan

NBC’s Days of Our Lives celebrated the show’s 45th anniversary with an exclusive red carpet party, reception, and panel discussion hosted by the the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences last week.

Past and present cast members were on hand to commemorate this historic television landmark.

Detroit’s Local 4 WDIV-TV NBC Affiliate anchor, Jon Jordan, was the master-of-ceremonies for a panel that spoke of the show’s legacy as they shared clips of the show’s greatest moments.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger sent congratulatory letters, which were read aloud.

In addition, there was a live webcast and interactive messaging via Twitter and Facebook.

The swarm of fans who braved record heat and gathered outside to see the stars were given a surprise when the Academy opened its doors to them so they could watch the show from the audience and share in the excitement.

Panelists included Suzanne Rogers, Drake Hogestyn, Maree Cheatham, Melissa Reeves, Bill Hayes, Susan Seaforth Hayes, Kristian Alfonso, Josh Taylor, Charles Shaughnessy, James Galen Gering, Louise Sorel, Joseph Mascolo, James Scott, Arianne Zucker, Alison Sweeney, Nadia Bjorlin, Jay Johnson, Peter Reckell, Bryan Dattilo, Lauren Koslow, and Mary Beth Evans.

Fan favorite host and actor Ty Treadway conducted exclusive backstage interviews with cast members.

Greg Meng, Days of Our Lives Executive in Charge of Production, and Eddie Campbell, television and film art director, were on hand to talk about their coffee table book, Days of our Lives 45 Years: A Celebration in Photos.

The book is being released to coincide with the groundbreaking anniversary on November 8. This book features never-before-seen images of cast, crew, sets, and styling.

So I’m trying to catchup on five back episodes of General Hospital, which I haven’t watched because…..oh yeah, I could care less!!!

Let’s see….we have the Brenda returns storyline……snooo-ZER!

Brenda Barrett (Vanessa Marcil Giovinazzo). (ABC/Rick Rowell)

Really! How absolutely sloooowwwwwly can Brenda’s return drag out.

There are so many non-storylines going on around Brenda (Vanessa Marcil Giovinazzo) – and none are remotely interesting…

The whole Sonny/Brenda and Sonny/Jason reunion is a total bore…a big WHO CARES???

Vanessa Marcil Giovinazzo (Brenda) and Maurice Benard (Sonny). (ABC/Rick Rowell)

I am SOoooo sick of all those flashback clips.

The first couple of clips were nostalgic…now they’re fast-forward material every time one comes on.

The only s/l that could have been a home run is Brenda’s involvement with the Alliance to Save Exploited Children, a group that helps children involved in sex trafficking.

That was a great opportunity for the writers to shed light on an important social issue….

Instead, the exploited children issue has taken a backseat to the hunt for yet another criminal – the big, bad Balkan….

And if TPTB think that I’m at all interested in Lucky going to Ireland to try and track down The Balkan – along with dragging Dante and Lulu into the mix – I don’t care about that either….It’s also boring!

I do think that Jonathan Jackson as Lucky has a remarkable Irish accent, though.

And vying for perhaps the worst storyline of all time…..

Drumroll please…..

The Claire and Sonny tryst!!

Yes, folks, they want us, the stupid viewers, to believe that Claire Walsh (Dahlia Salem), a career-driven, tough-as-nails federal prosecutor with one goal in mind – to take down Sonny Corinthos – ends up throwing her career away for the chance to sleep with the mobster….

Dahlia Salem (Claire) and Maurice Benard (Sonny). (ABC/Ron Tom)

That, my friends, is an all-time low on many fronts.

But especially because they took a strong, smart woman and reduced her to Jello (once again) after falling under the spell of the charming mob boss.

It’s a shame, really. Because I like Salem and her portrayal of Claire.

I just don’t like the way the character has been ruined.

The only strong woman who hasn’t fallen prey to Sonny is Diane Miller (Carolyn Hennesy).

Believe me, I was cheering when Diane lit into Claire for trashing her career for a roll in the hay with Sonny.

Smart woman, that Diane.

And Carolyn Hennesy really brings it every time she’s on that screen.

Carolyn Hennesy (Diane Miller)

Yessireee…she’s one of the best things that show has going for it!

The only storyline that of interest right now is the Crazy Lisa kidnapping Robin storyline….

Kimberly McCullough (Robin) Brianna Brown (Lisa) Jason Thompson (Patrick) Photo: ABC

But, quite frankly, that was spoiled for me by the spoilers and the previews, which gave everything away! UGH!

Hey Days of Our Lives Fans!

An event tailor-made for you.

Days of Our Lives fans will have a chance to take part in a 45-year annivesary celebration of the popular soap opera Tuesday.

The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and Days of our Lives will present “Celebrating 45 Years of Days of our Lives” 7:30 p.m. at the Leonard H. Goldenson Theatre, 5230 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA. Arrivals will begin at 5:30 p.m.

Moderated by Detroit’s Local 4 WDIV-TV NBC Affiliate, Jon Jordan, the evening will highlight the show with six panels featuring talent, producers, and executives who have been a part of the drama for the past 45 years.

These panels will touch upon subjects such as character discussions, growing up in Salem/on set, and the business side of the show.

“Celebrating 45 Years of Days of our Lives” will stream LIVE on the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences website: http://www.emmys.com.

Fans will have the opportunity to watch the panels as they happen.

The first 200 guests to arrive will be given the opportunity to stand alongside the red carpet as current and past cast members enter the theatre. The first 100 will be given a gift bag and one fan chosen at random will be given access inside to the panel discussion and celebration.

Scheduled panelists include: Suzanne Rogers (Maggie Horton), Drake Hogesten (John Black), Maree Cheatham (Marie Horton), Melissa Reeves (Jennifer Deveraux), Bill Hayes (Doug Williams), Susan Seaforth Hayes (Julie Williams), Kristian Alfonso (Hope Brady), Josh Taylor (Roman Brady), Charles Shaughnessey (Shane Donovan), James Reynolds (Abe Carver), Galen Gering (Rafe Hernandez), Louise Sorel (Vivian Alamain), Joseph Mascolo (Stefano DiMera), James Scott (EJ DiMera), Arianne Zucker (Nicole Walker), Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady), Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe Lane), Jay Johnson (Philip Kiriakis) Peter Reckell (Bo Brady), Bryan Dattilo (Lucas Horton), Lauren Koslow (Kate Horton), Mary Beth Evans (Kayla Brady) and more!

Also making its first public appearance will be behind-the-scenes photos from the brand new archive book Days of our Lives 45 Years A Celebration In Photos. The book and photos will be featured in an exhibit in the main lobby of the Leonard H. Goldenson Theater as guests enter for the evening. The book itself will début in the beginning of November followed shortly by a fiction series of books called Salem’s Secrets, Scandals, and Lies.

“Celebrating 45 Years of Days of our Lives” offers complimentary attendance for Television Academy members and one guest. Limited seating is available on a first come, first served basis. There is no ticketing for this event. A Television Academy membership card and photo ID must be presented for admission.

To RSVP, members need to go to emmys.tv and for more information or questions for panelists, please contact activities@emmys.org

NBC’s Days of our Lives will celebrate its 45th year on the air in November and has already garnered numerous Emmy® Awards and nominations. Days of our Lives is produced by Corday Productions, Inc., in association with Sony Pictures Television.

Anyone who’s listened to my show knows that one of my greatest flaws is my failure to keep my tongue in my pocket. (Please hold the snarky retorts.)

That being said, I want to take a moment to set the record straight on a few things concerning today’s rallies or lack thereof for As the World Turns. So, without further adieu, here goes, it’s going to be a bumpy ride!

First of all, THANK YOU to all who listened in last week and participated in our Surge on Soaps. Unfortunately, the majority of those who lurked in the background agreeing to attend a rally failed to follow through.

That stinks – not so much for me but for Sue and Tami who have put their hearts and souls into this campaign. So with that said, here goes…

Suffice it to say I am disappointed and if those who claimed they were going to a rally did so to sabotage the movement, you are hereby served notice. There are those of us in this group who are fighting the good fight to save a genre.

We’re not interested in personal glorification, nor are we interested in sucking up to soap celebrities. As much as this is about soap actors, we understand that actors are human beings, too. They have personal lives, they do this because they love their craft and they don’t want deification — they want to work.

Too many people have been involved in this campaign only to promote personal agendas or serve as shills for a band of gutless “pundits” who would sell their own souls to gain a scoop or “one up” the competition.

As I said EVERY DAY last week on my show — leave your egos at the door.

This is more than just a show or two. This is about an art form which is in serious trouble.

And to all the Johnny-come-latelys who are coming out of the woodwork claiming that they’re concerned all of a sudden — where the heck have you been? We’ve been here all along willing to work with anyone who shared our view of the importance of keeping soap opera alive. Sure the times have changed. That means that the soap model has to adapt as well.

I’m sorry to sound so negative but to be honest I am mostly disappointed.

I’ve known Sue for 12 years. I know how strong her passion has been and I know she’s given herself time and time again — at her own expense and to the risk of her health. Let’s not forget just 6 days ago she had a pacemaker inserted under her breast. Yet she made the trip to NYC. She’s put a lot of her own money into this effort and never asked a single one of us for a dime. Yes, it was her choice, but where is the gratitude, folks?

This woman has given of herself, her heart and her well being because of her passion which she thought the rest of us shared. And tonight she may very well be in an emergency room in Connecticut because she just did too much in these last few days. Again, that was her choice; however, Sue can never wear the badge of shame which says she didn’t do her part. For her service, I salute her and thank her for never giving up especially when most around her were giving her nothing but lip service.

I predicted on Thursday that there would be many disappointments today. My prophecy has been fulfilled. And that’s OK, I’ve been through this before.

Eleven years ago, I remember reaching out to GL and ATWT fans about Another World. I remember begging those fans to hear our case. We were ridiculed. We were lambasted. We were treated like Barack Obama at a Tea Party Rally. And, you know what? We proved we were better than that.

When GL got cancelled, the same AW fans that were once shunned were sought out for advice and guidance. I didn’t get involved in that fight. Frankly, I didn’t want to waste my time. Then CBS announced the end of ATWT.

I don’t care what line of crap the soap media feeds you nor do I believe the “official” line of the studios. This is business. Whatever the motivations were for killing a show which has been enjoyed by 5 consecutive generations of viewers is of no concern to me.

What is most important is the shoring up of those shows that remain while encouraging another network to consider the development of one or two new shows.

That’s right, I said it – NEW soaps.

I believe today just as I did in 1999 in the simple premise that there is demand for quality soap opera.

I am a vociferous proponent of getting arts back into education. I think part of the problem with Daytime is that the last two generations of children have been robbed of the gift of exposure to the arts be it music, drama or literature. And that, my friends, creates students who have a diminished capacity to learn the basics.

Tomorrow is a new day.

The Rallies are over; the ATWT post mortem is at an end.

No more grieving, no more looking for excuses as to who to blame.

If you want to work to promote the genre and get these professionals back in circulation, then join us in this renewed cause. We are the FIRST group which presented a comprehensive, bold approach to reinventing Daytime. That is fact. We have an arsenal of professionals behind the scenes who share our passions and are waiting for the right time to do what they must to join this cause.

So, where to from here?

For me, the answer is simple.

We will continue to work on our proposal. We will fine tune it. We will seek input from people who are willing to place their own egos at the door.

And while I’ve slammed a lot of soap press I know that there are many out there who share my passion. I know that there are many actors, writers and crew who are amazed that we have been in this for them – each of them – because we recognize their value to their respective professions. We believe this initiative is the natural progression for the times in which we live.

Irna Phillips has been an incredible influence on American society for over 50 years. This initiative is dedicated to her in gratitude for her accomplishments. We’re not interested in fan club or studio fan events which take money from the same band of fans ad nauseum. We want to see our actors and writers out there executing their crafts in a forum where they will be most appreciated.

When an actor acts, an actor is most fulfilled. When a writer can weave a tale from the times in which we live without the fear of studio reprisals or “political incorrectness” he/she can spin a tale which captures and inspires. When a director can take their experience from Daytime and bring it to a community theatre for the benefit of up and coming actors and audience they are not only a gift, they are mentors to a new generation of accomplished, seasoned professionals.

Later this week we will be putting out our Irna Phillips Initiative in a boldly creative way. Last week’s Surge on Soaps convinced us that there is stirrings of a new movement so we’re going to do something about it.

If you’re in, drop me an email at soaps@delibernation.com.

We have a new website coming out and we have a completely revamped proposal in the works. The foundation of which is encompassed in the original proposal which you can find on this site. OwnUpOprah.com will become SurgeOnSoaps.com complete with tools for every soap fan to promote their own soap ideas and more.

As Michael Swan said the other night, “where there is life, there is soap.” We could not agree more.

And where there is soap, there is inspiration and opportunity.

Personally, I have been enriched by the experience of soap. I’m passionate about theatre and the arts as equally as I am passionate about the state of our political affairs today. I see the intrinsic value of arts being incorporated into academia in a resurgence not seen in 40 years.

That’s my mission.

If you’re with me, welcome. Join the cause. Help us convince a studio, network or theatre group to hop on board our train. Thanks for reading.

I’m sorry, in advance, if you’ve been offended. There are words that Senator Ted Kennedy once spoke which I feel apply to many a situation – be it politics, parenting, education and yes even soap opera. “”The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dreams shall never die.” Without passion, we are robots, folks. Passion trumps.

And, as the great Helen Wagner said hundreds of times over the years, “Good night, dear.”

Hey Gang!

Last night, Silas Kain of Delibernation BlogTalkRadio Show – and a Soapbox1 contributor – launched his Surge on Soaps week.

We all know that soaps are being cancelled right and left….As The World Turns will air its final show on CBS this Friday…

Silas refuses to acknowledge that this will actually be the FINAL show for ATWT. He insists a new home for the show will be found….and I gotta tell ya, with his drive, it can be done!

But it cannot be done by a few…..there is strength in numbers.

Sooooo Silas and his gang needs YOUR help….He will be broadcasting every day this week on his Delibernation BlogTalkRadio show.

The cancellation of soaps affects EVERYONE connected to the genre, whether it be fan, actor, crew….even nearby businesses.

The Day One podcast is located at the bottom of this entry. It includes information about a huge rally that will take place outside the CBS studios in New York City on Monday and other such rallies around the country in protest of the ATWT cancellation.

Listen to it – and listen to it carefully.

And please join Silas tonight at 10 p.m.

Silas has some pretty innovative ideas….apparently the most provacative will be released on his Wednesday podcast.

But, tonight, at 10 p.m. he will be discussing the OwnupOprah.com movement, which aims to get Oprah Winfrey involved in saving the soap genre.

This is BIGGER than just the cancellation of Guiding Light or ATWT….Rumors are rampant for the past year that One Life To Live is next up on the chopping block (and you know where there’s smoke, there’s fire)!

So….listen to last night’s podcast below – and join Silas for tonight’s podcast.

To quote Silas – “We’re all in this together!”

I was never, ever one of those girls who was attracted to the bad boys.

In life – and in soaps – it’s the good guys….the guys with honesty and integrity, who I always root for.

Having said that, my top three fave guys in soapland these days are actually quite similar in the way they are the white knight, do-the-right-thing kind of guys.

And they are (drumroll please) – Police Chief Bo Buchanan/OLTL, Det. John McBain/OLTL and Officer Dante Falconeri/GH.

Hmmm. There seems to be some kind of these going on here…

Oh yeah…They’re all cops!

Robert S. Woods‘ Bo Buchanan has been a favorite of mine for as long as I can remember.

Robert S. Woods (Bo Buchanan)

Bo has always been the antithesis to his powerful – albeit immoral – father Asa, played brilliantly by the late, great Phil Carey.

Yes, Bo struggled all his life – right up to his father’s death – with the love for this father and the hate for the choices (many illegal) his father made.

Asa was a hard-living, womanizing, boozing, cantankerous old coot.

Bo is the polar opposite.

But they both loved each other.

One of the choices that was contrary to his character – and that he struggled against – was kissing his ex-wife, Nora, behind his brother’s back while Clint and Nora were engaged, and later married.

But, really, Nora (Hillary B. Smith) and Bo were meant to be together all along….and I think that counts for something in the right vs wrong department.

In other words, if destiny intervenes (and I don’t mean Destiny Evans)…if two people are made for each other – like Bo and Nora – then it’s more right for them to be together than wrong….Does that make any sense?

And they didn’t have sex until after Nora broke up with Clint (Jerry Ver Dorn) – and in this day and age THAT counts too!

Speaking of which, where the heck ARE Bo and Nora these days???

They had that wonderful wedding week, which I thought was really funny and highlighted the comedic sides of many of the cast members.

Hillary B. Smith (Nora), Eddie Alderson (Matthew) and Robert S. Woods (Bo). (ABC/Donna Svennevik)

Then, POOF, they were gone off the canvas….and now they’re back…and Bo has a new, young assistant….

Unfortunately, I think we ALL know where THAT is going.

As far as Johnny McBain….There’s always been a soft spot in my heart for him.

Michael Easton as John McBain (Photo/ABC)

Michael Easton‘s portrayal of John…well, he’s one of my favorite characters in soapdom.

It’s his intensity for doing the right thing….the hero….the rescuer….

And those deep, blue eyes….

He’s another one who always does the right thing and is honest as the day is long.

And if you’re one of his peeps…someone he cares for….or even just a friend…
No matter, he will go to the mat for you!

Take Kelly and the murder of her mother…John and Kelly were mildly acquainted before she asked him to help her find out what really happened to her mother.

But he has gone above and beyond to help her.

Ya gotta love it!

One of his biggest struggles came when he found out that Michael and Marcie’s baby, Tommy, whom they adopted because he was abandoned, was really the son of Todd Manning and Margaret Cochran.

In that case, it was a huge dilemma for him ….What exactly was the right thing to do? Betray his brother?

It ate at him – and Easton showed the viewer the inner struggle that McBain was going through.

And Dominic Zamprogna‘s Dante Falconeri reminds me so much of McBain!

Julie Berman (Lulu) and Dominic Zamprogna (Dante). (ABC/Ron Tom)

Dante is honest to a fault – and Zamprogna shows us those qualities through the earnestness in his eyes when he’s talking.

Dante’s big brown eyes….they’re just honest, that’s all I can say.

And he, too, struggles with a similar situation to Bo…although, in my opinion, having Sonny Corinthos as a father is WAY WORSE than having Asa as a father.

Dante is loyal…boy is he loyal…even after being drugged by Brook Lynn, he’s still loyal, thank goodness…

And I love the fact that Michael has figured it out…He’s on to Carly’s plan to use Brook Lynn (Adrianne Leon) to break up Dante and Lulu (Julie Berman).

Yes, I’m a sucker for the good guys.

I guess it stands to reason that police officers SHOULD be the good guys…

But, as we all know, it doesn’t always happen in life – and, especially doesn’t always happen in the soap world.

HELLOOOO, Det. Ronnie DiMestico!