Dear Suds Buds,
Happy New Year! Can you believe that another 365 days has past since I last wished you all Happy New Year? Yipes. Time flies when you're covering soaps. LOL But the best part is that the year 2002 proves to be a banner one ahead for soapdom and its fans -- starting with SoapCity Live, the very first West Coast fan festivity hosted by Soap City. See below for details. Not to mention all the exciting developments on your favorite shows. Be sure to check out Turtle-Run.com's Sneak Peeks every Thursday and Monday for a preview of what's to come on your soap.
Speaking of which, Turtle-Run.com gets tons of letters from fans sometimes asking specific questions, other times just blowing off some steam. In that regard, we are introducing a new feature for Top of the Week. A "sound off" section where you have the cyber floor. Just write and let us know whatever is bothering you about your favorite show. If you have strong feelings about casting changes, storyline developments, or character portrayals, get them off your chest and send them to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . We will print them every so often here in this column. We start this week with our first two Cyber Soap Box letters. See below.
Again, I wish everyone a very Happy New Year. Party hardy, but never, ever drink and drive! Many blessings in 2002.
Soap Stars Do More than Soaps -- Like AMC's Dr. David
Those who tune into GenoaCity every day best know Michelle Stafford for her portrayal as Phyllis on Y&R. But have you seen her commercial for Herbal Essences? She's in an office, whispering to a co-worker as another co-worker gets her hair worked over by Herbal Essence Shampoo. Two weeks ago, we reported that AMC's Michael E. Knight (Tad) and Cady McClain (Dixie) were cast in the same independent feature film titled "The Retreat," and were currently in production on location in Falmouth, MA. Long time "As the World Turn" fans I am sure remember the character of Mike Kasnoff as played by the charming and oh-so-gorgeous, Shawn Christian, who has been popping up all over lately. Have you seen the commercial where he rides off into the sunset on a motorcycle? (Sorry, the product on that one escapes me because I am always so much more interested in seeing his glistening smile than I am in the product they are selling! Opps. My bad. LOL) He was also recently in not one, not two, but three episodes of "Crossing Jordan," playing the part of an investigative reporter/photographer. He also showed up about two weeks ago on a new episode of "Friends."
But my favorite surprise recently was watching "Heartbreak Ridge," a feature film starring Clint Eastwood, on one of the HBO channels. This film has always been a favorite in the Smith house, because well, how can you not enjoy Clint (or "Squint," as I affectionately call him! LOL)? But this most recent viewing brought a whole new appreciation of the film for me. And why? Because starring in a predominate role is none other than AMC's own devious Dr. Dave (Vincent Irizarry)! He is one of the recruits, and therefore a thorn in Clint's (Sgt. Gunny Highway) side. His character is "Fagetti," and Sgt. Gunny prefers to accentuate the first syllable whenever addressing him, much to "FAGetti's" dismay. LOL Vincent Irizarry has fun with this character, and as Turtle-Run has a large contingent of Dr. David fans, I highly recommend you rent "Heartbreak Ridge," as Irizarry is buff, tan, and shirtless a lot of the time in the movie! In fact, his only wardrobe consists of very short military shorts in much of the film! What's great about "Heartbreak Ridge" is that your husband or boyfriend will also enjoy the rental, as it's a guy's movie, but displays a fair amount of heart for the ladies. Not to mention about two full hours with Dr. Dave!
Have you seen your favorite character in something other than their soap? Share the siting on the Turtle-Run message boards in the Criticize theCritic folder.
Cyber SoapBox
"Seems like ABC has issued a blackout and smear campaign regarding Stephen Nichols (Stefan, GH). The soap press is consistent in ignoring how BADLY ABC treated this man. He turned in powerful performances and bolstered and propped up many lesser talents and the divas that seem to get their way and basically have stories for others aborted in order to maintain their prominence. As soon as Stephen made it clear he wasn't re signing to ABC, Star issued more smears. JFP has not been a sweet lady and it would NOT surprise any that her less than stellar ways and means inspire such slander. The fact that the soap press maintains no comments says more about the lack of objectivity by the press and the total influence of publicity departments of the networks. Sad to say, I'm ashamed of the soap press and ABC TV. Sorry guys, but the Sonny Jax and teen hour does not make up for the lack of strong performances and the stories that should have been, Nikolas (Coltin) does not cut it as a lead Cassidine. But the story of Stefan and Helena left untold is a sin. Seems everything on GH with regard to Stephen Nichols had to prop up the franchise Luke and Laura. Are they so insecure that aborting a class actor from stories had to be the call of the day to prop them Up? I'm disappointed and will not bother with Luke and Laura ever again. No kudos to the divas at GH."Crewtime9
"I am a big fan of Michael Nader (ex Dimitri, AMC) since his days on Dynasty, which was my all time favorite show in the 80's. Then, when he came to AMC, I was glad. No one can play Dimitri like Michael can. His voice, his demeanor. So what if in his personal life he is not perfect, none of us are. As long as it did not mess up his work, who cares? He is a fine actor. His trademark for me is that voice and that scar. Wildwind will never be the same without him. Especially now that Esta (Terblanche, ex Gillian) is gone to. They should at least let him make appearances from time to time. Maybe they should take a vote from his fellow cast mates. I'll bet no one would say they didn't miss him. Dimitri had a connection with almost every character on the show. So, I feel like a big part of the show is gone without him. His personal life is no one's business." His Fan
Soap City Live!
Soap Opera Stars, Live and in Person, At the First Ever SOAPCITY LIVE! Convention February 2 and 3, 2002 in Pasadena, California (Hollywood, California...) Soap opera enthusiasts from all over the world will convene in Pasadena, California on February 2 and 3 to attend the first ever SOAPCITY LIVE! Convention. Featuring a vast array of stars from a variety of daytime dramas, the event will take place at the Pasadena Center, 300 E. Green Street, with show hours 12:00 noon -- 6:00 PM daily. Visit www.soapcitylive.com for full details on registering for the event.
Soap opera stars scheduled to make appearances throughout the weekend include "Days of our Lives" stars Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe), Patrika Darbo (Nancy), Jay Johnson (Philip), Matt Cedeno (Brandon), and from "Passions," Juliet Mills (Tabitha), Ben Masters (Julian), Josh Ryan Evans (Timmy), McKenzie Westmore (Sheridan), Jesse Metcalfe (Miguel) and many more stars from a variety of soap operas including Erik Estrada (Eduardo), Joseph Mascolo (Massimo), John McCook (Eric), Sean Kanan (Deacon), Justin Torkildsen (Rick) and Winsor Harmon (Thorne) all from "Bold & the Beautiful," and from "Young & the Restless" David Lago (Raul), Jeanne Cooper (Katherine), Tonya Lee Williams (Olivia), Don Diamont (Brad), Christian LeBlanc (Michael), Kristoff St. John (Neil), Doug Davidson (Paul) and Michelle Stafford (Phyllis).
Other SOAPCITY LIVE! highlights will include autograph signings, photo opportunities, a special soap opera fashion museum, trivia contests, interactive events, a Saturday night fashion show, a merchandise emporium, plus much more.
For those of you out there who may not know, the history of the daytime drama began on radio around 1926, with the idea of incorporating "useful household tips" and featuring household products within "serials" for housewives. These continuous dramas (or "operas") with soap often as the featured product, quickly became known as "soap operas." Procter and Gamble became the main sponsor of these soap operas, and eventually started producing their own programming. Today there are currently 10 daytime dramas. The Guiding Light, owned and produced by Procter and Gamble, will be celebrating its 65th year of continuous drama in 2002.
"There's a broad group of people that are interested in soap operas. They cross all ages and genders, lifestyles and income levels," said Mary Coller, Vice President and General Manager of SoapCity. "SOAPCITY LIVE! will give us the opportunity to bring our website to life with all the fun and attractions fans love." Visit www.soapcitylive.com for full details on registering for the event.
New at Passions Official Website
Our friends at Passions asked us to be sure and pass along news of the latest features at nbc.com/passions. First, the year-end award feature is up! Check it out and vote which characters should be the "Nicest," "Most Romantic" and much, much more! The link is http://www.nbc.com/nbc/Passions/Exclusives/Awards/
Then, on Monday, December 17, 2001 www.nbc.com/passions launched a timeline of what drove Kay to cast the ice spell on Charity. Don't miss it! And on Tuesday, December 25, 2001 another Passions Bonus was launched. Be sure to check out "Tabitha's Scroll" which will have a special Christmas episode clips, not seen on the air show plus a year-in-review and predictions for 2002!
Now On Soapcenter, as of Friday, December 28, 2001
Storyline Spotlight: Who is Proteus?
SoapCenter talks with key suspects in the "Proteus" case, including Finola Hughes (Anna), Vincent Irizarry (David), David Canary (Adam) and Marj Dusay (Vanessa). John Callahan, who plays Edmund, explains the mystery and reveals why its denouement will have a staggering effect on Pine Valley.
Behind the Scenes: A Miracle Wedding on Port Charles
After much anticipation and many close calls, Lucy(Lynn Herring) and Kevin (Jon Lindstrom) walk down the aisle -- again -- and we were there for one of daytime's biggest holiday spectacles. From sets and props, to makeup and hair, see the planning and research this elaborate event took.
At Home: Guiding Lights' Beth Chamberlin
Beth Chamberlin (Lorelei) and her husband, Peter, have taken an active role in renovating their home north of New York City. We'll see the work-in-progress.
Getting Personal: From Fan to Friend
When actor Justin Carroll landed the role of photographer David Hastings on Passions, co-star McKenzie Westmore (Sheridan) went online to introduce him to the show's loyal fans. But he never imagined that two of the fans he met through McKenzie's web site would become his close friends. Kelly Knight and Tracey Salvacion will share what this friendship means to them, and we'll be there as they throw his first fan luncheon.
Premiering On Soapcenter, Friday January 4, 2002
Be sure to tune into this very special SoapCenter presentation as the show celebrates its 100th episode with a special look back at favorite stars, stories, moments and memories. Join hosts Tanika Ray and Peggy Bunker as they revisit some of SoapCenter's all-time favorite stories, including:
Character Spotlight: "Erica Kane" Still Believes in Love
A retrospective of Daytime TV legend Susan Lucci's alter ego, Erica Kane and a long look at her romantic escapades.
Kelly Ripa and Young and the Restless star Jeanne Cooper
Before she teamed up with Regis Philbin, All My Children'sKelly Ripa did a candid interview for SoapCenter with soap legend Jeanne Cooper (Katherine, Young and the Restless).
Behind the Scenes: Laura & Scotty Reminisce
Before there was Luke and Laura, there was Scotty and Laura. On ABC's General Hospital, history is about to come full circle as Scotty and Laura revisit the love they shared more than two decades ago. Go behind the scenes with stars Genie Francis and Kin Shriner as Scotty makes a wild attempt to rekindle their romance.
Behind-the-Scenes: All in the Family
Meet three real-life siblings who worked behind-the-scenes ofPassions and Days of Our Lives.
Plus!
A look back at the making of Guiding Light's earth-shattering earthquake. And an encore celebration of As the World Turns 45th anniversary
PLEASE NOTE: This special will air for two consecutive weeks (weeks of January 4 and January 11, 2002.)
**TRO Disclaimer: The above SoapCenter segments are scheduled in advance and may be bumped without notice for airing at a later date. The above segments may then be replaced with other segments. Check your local listings.**
Casting
All My Children: MontelWilliams begins in the role of Judge Pearson on Thursday, January 3, 2002.
Days of our Lives: For the week of December 31st -- Rolanda Watts continues as attorney Cameron Reese throughout the week. Jay Bell portrays Judge Sanford on Wednesday, January 2nd. David Wells portrays Carl Liszt, the owner of Permalash Cosmetics, on Wednesday, January 2nd.
General Hospital: Lara Jill Miller will appear in two episodes playing Kate, a hotel clerk. Miller is familiar to television audiences for her portrayal of Samantha on the hit TV show, "Gimme a Break." She airs on Friday, January 4 and Tuesday, January 8, 2002.
One Life to Live: RobertMontano appears as Miguel. His first airdate is Wednesday, January 9, 2002.
Passions:Dwight Hicks returns as TC's father on Tuesday, January 8, 2002. Chea Courtney returns as The Angel Girl on Friday, January 11, 2002. Martin Grey returns as the Tabloid Reporter for five episodes, January 8, 9,10, 11 and 14, 2002. Brandon Savory portrays the Young Antonio in a flashback with Pilar (EvaTamargo Lemus) on Tuesday, January 8, 2002. A.J. Benza appears as Nick Corelli on Monday, January 21, 2002. Alisa Reyes has been cast in the recurring role of Kelly. Her first airdate is scheduled for January 23, 2002.
Seeing Stars
AMC: On Saturday, February 9, 2002 Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), Michael E. Knight (Tad) & Walt Willey (Jackson) appear at the 3rd Annual Valentine's Dinner With The Stars ~ Mote Marine Event. Also attending from One Life to Live are Mark Derwin (Ben), David Fumero (Cristian) and Catherine Hickland (Lindsay) at the beautiful Michael's on East, Sarasota. All proceeds benefit the Dolphin and Whale Hospital. Call 941-388-4441 Ext. 465 for additional information. (Some appearance info provided by SEAHAAS.)
Bold & the Beautiful: On the weekend of February 2 and 3, 2002 Erik Estrada (Eduardo), Joseph Mascolo (Massimo), John McCook (Eric), Sean Kanan (Deacon), Justin Torkildsen (Rick)and Winsor Harmon (Thorne) will be among the soap stars appearing at SoapCity Live in Pasadena, CA. Visit www.soapcitylive.com for info and to register.
As the World Turns: The As The World Turns Fan Club Luncheon will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2002 from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. The luncheon will be held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel, 1535 Broadway, New York, NY. Tickets are $90.00 for non-fan club members and $85.00 for current ATWT Fan Club Members. A $15.00 non-refundable deposit per person will reserve your seat in the order it is received. Checks and money orders are payable to: As The World Turns Fan Club Luncheon Tickets, P.O. Box 647, Merrick, NY 11566-0647.
Days of Our Lives: On Sunday, January 13th, from 11 AM-3 PM, Peter Reckell and Kristian Alfosno will be appearing at the NBC-5 Health Fit Expo in Dallas, Texas. Peter and Kristian will sign autographs at the Expo, which will be held at the Dallas Convention Center, located at 650 South
Griffin Street in Dallas. Admission is free. On Thursday, January 24th, Matt Cedeno (Brandon) will be hosting "Legendary Bingo" at 8:00 PM at DuPars Restaurant in West Hollywood, CA, located at 8571 Santa Monica Blvd. "Legendary Bingo" benefits Interno's Music Organization which provides music lessons to inner-city youth. On the weekend of February 2and 3, 2002 Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe), Patrika Darbo (Nancy), Jay Johnson (Philip), Matt Cedeno (Brandon) will be among the soap stars appearing at SoapCity Live in Pasadena, CA. Visit www.soapcitylive.com for info and to register.
One Life to Live: On Saturday, February 9, 2002 Mark Derwin (Ben), David Fumero (Cristian) and Catherine Hickland (Lindsay) appear at the 3rd Annual Valentine's Dinner With The Stars ~ Mote Marine Event. Also attending from All My Children are Rebecca Budig (Greenlee), Michael E. Knight (Tad) & Walt Willey (Jackson) at the beautiful Michael's on East, Sarasota. All proceeds benefit the Dolphin and Whale Hospital. Call 941-388-4441 Ext. 465 for additional information. (Some appearance info submitted by SEAHAAS.)
Passions: On the weekend of February 2 and 3, 2001, Josh Ryan Evans (Timmy), Ben Masters (Julian), Jesse Metcalfe (Miguel), Juliet Mills (Tabitha) and McKenzie Westmore (Sheridan) will join the stars of other daytime dramas at SOAPCITY LIVE!, the most spectacular Soap Opera convention ever -- at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, CA. The program will include autograph signings, photo opportunities, trivia contests, interactive events, a fashion show and much, much more. For more information visit www.soapcitylive.com Marianne Muellerleile (Norma) has just finished taping a guest star role on "The Hughleys" which will air either February 4 or February 11, 2002 (check your local listings).
Young & the Restless: Shemar Moore is still touring the U.S. in "The Fabric of A Man." Check your local newspapers. On the weekend of Feburary 2 and 3 see David Lago (Raul), Jeanne Cooper (Katherine), Tonya Lee Williams (Olivia), Don Diamont (Brad), Christian LeBlanc (Michael), Kristoff St. John (Neil), Doug Davidson (Paul) and Michelle Stafford (Phyllis) appearing at SoapCity Live in Pasadena, CA. Visit www.soapcitylive.com for info and to register.
Email the Stars
*Send email to stars of Passions This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
*Send email to stars of All My Children, One Life to Life, General Hospital, and Port Charles at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
*Post your comments to your favorite actors on Turtle-Run.com's Message Boards and we will email our contacts at the networks who will pass on your posts.
Bubbles Busted? Snail Mail TPTB!
All My Children: Audience Information, ABC TV, 77 W. 66th St, NY, NY 10023
As the World Turns: CBS TV, 51 W. 52nd St, NY, NY 10019
Bold & the Beautiful: CBS TV, 7800 Beverly Blvd, LA, CA 90036
Days of Our Lives: NBC TV, 3000 W. Alameda Ave, Burbank, CA 91523
General Hospital: ABC TV, 4151 Prospect Ave, Hollywood, CA 90027
Guiding Light: CBS TV, 51 W 52nd St, NY, NY 10019
One Life to Live: ABC TV, Audience Information, 77 W. 66th St, NY, NY 10023
Passions: CBS Radford Studios, 4024 Radford Ave, Studio City, CA 91604
Port Charles: ABC TV, 4151 Prospect Ave, Hollywood, CA 90027
Young & the Restless: CBS TV, 7800 Beverly Blvd, LA, CA 90036
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