CURRENT NEWS
Congratulations to B&B for it's win in the 2008 Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Multiple Camera Editing for a Drama Series
On June 12, 2008, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL was the recipient of the International TV Audience award in the category of "Telenovela/Soap Opera" for the third year in a row at the 48th Monte-Carlo Television Festival Golden Nymph Awards Ceremony in Monaco. The award was accepted by JENNIFER GAREIS (Donna) and KYLE LOWDER (Rick).
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL held the 20th anniversary, 2007 edition of its biannual fan event on August 25, 2007, in Los Angeles. I've got lots of photos to share from the entire day, and you can click here to check them out.
And if you want a look back at the 2005 B&B Fan Events, my feature on that is still posted as well and you can click here to check it out.
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL launched a new TEN QUESTIONS website competition the last week of July on its official website. Question submissions were accepted on the website until Friday August 22, 2008 at 8:00 a.m. The videos will be posted every Monday for nine weeks starting September 1st, and ending October 27th, 2008. A GRAND PRIZE winner from among the "10 Questions" winners will be determined from a random drawing and will receive a special limited-edition commemorative copy of the book, "The Bold and the Beautiful in Celebration of 20 Years on Television" autographed by the entire cast, valued at $100.00. An additional winner of the BONUS WORD UNSCRAMBLE GAME will receive a personal phone call from a member of the cast as a prize. At the end of each "10 Questions" video piece, the actor being featured in that episode will open an envelope and reveal a "BONUS WORD UNSCRAMBLE LETTER." Once participants have watched all 9 episodes and collected all the letters, they will unscramble the letters to form a word, which they will submit via email to compete for the bonus prize. The winner will be drawn randomly from all the correct answers from the emails. Check out http://www.theboldandthebeautiful.com for details. (Updated: Sep 01, 2008)
Viewers were thrilled when SUSAN FLANNERY recently returned to the front burner on B&B as Stephanie, since her character had been on the sidelines for too long. But Susan will also have some of her work appear on another CBS soap in October. The four-time Emmy winner recently directed four-time Emmy winner Kim Zimmer and the rest of the citizens of Springfield on GUIDING LIGHT. The episode, airing October 13, focuses in part on a new plot twist that has Zimmer's fifty-something character, Reva, unexpectedly pregnant. Flannery had previously directed several episodes of B&B.
In May, Flannery went to Peapack, NJ to observe the new production model on GL, which is now taped at real life locations in the New Jersey town using hand-held cameras. At that time, she expressed an interest in directing an episode of GL, so their executive producer, Ellen Wheeler, invited her back. Flannery told TV Guide that she's "fascinated with the level of reality Ellen Wheeler has brought to the show." Flannery added, "It's the wave of the future. I don't think B&B can necessarily do this. We're more of a romance novel. But, GL is a slice-of-life show, and Ellen has taken everybody's idea of what soaps should be and blown it out of the sky." Flannery predicts all daytime serials will have to modernize in similar ways if they are to survive.
Wheeler said that her cast responded well to Susan and would like to have her back again, but that will of course depend on her B&B schedule. With Stephanie back in the thick of things on-screen, a return to direct GL will have to wait for a time when Susan isn't needed on B&B. (Sep 28, 2008)
B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer BRADLEY BELL has a new source of drama in his life. Bell has purchased the film rights to the book "God Is a Bullet" and will co-produce the film with Ehren Kruger and Daniel Bobker. The film will be based on the book by Boston Teran, which centers on a California cop who goes undercover after his daughter is kidnapped in order to rescue the daughter from criminals. Kruger, who will also adapt the screenplay, has also written the sequel to the blockbuster, "Transformers" and David Fincher’s "Torso." There is no word on when "God Is a Bullet" will go into production, as it is still being “shopped” around Hollywood. (Sep 28, 2008)
BRANDON BEEMER (Owen) will be appearing at the 16th Annual Northwest Women’s Show at the Portland, OR Convention Center on Saturday, October 25, 2008. From 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, Brandon will be taking pictures, signing autographs and participating in a question and answer session. Taking place Friday through Sunday, October 24 – 26, admission to the Show is $9.00 / Seniors 65+ $7.00 and 12 and under, Free. For more information visit: www.portlandwomenshow.com. (Sep 28, 2008)
ALUMNA ALERT: MAEVE QUINLAN may have done everything from giving Brooke a shoulder to cry on to changing Brooke's bedsheets back when she played Brooke's trusted assistant Megan Conley on B&B, but she's been busy since leaving the show. In 2005, Maeve started appearing as Paula Carlin on the series SOUTH OF NOWHERE on the N network. While that series is set to air its final episodes in October, it doesn't mean Maeve will be idle. Earlier this year, so co-created and produced the Internet series 3Way (http://www.3waytv.tv,) in which she also co-stars; that series is described as "Three's Company for a new generation." And Maeve will have a new home in prime time as she joins the cast of the new 90210 on the CW network. Maeve will play Constance Tate-Duncan, the overbearing mother to the character, Adrianna. Apparently all Constance's stage mothering and vicarious living through her teenage daughter will result in major turmoil for the young girl. (Sep 28, 2008)
EILEEN DAVIDSON (Ashley) has now revealed that she is indeed on contract with THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS again - and in fact, she has been since June! Davidson tells Soap Opera Digest that her Y&R contract kicked in days after she was dropped to recurring status on B&B in early June, but she kept mum about her status at Y&R while the writers at that show figured out where and when Ashley's return home would fit into the story. There is still no word as to when and how Ashley's leaving L.A. will be addressed on B&B, although a B&B rep said previously (see below) that she might still visit B&B at some time in the future. (Sep 14, 2008)
ALLEY MILLS (Pam) will be appearing in person with her husband, Orson Bean, at two Barnes and Noble bookstores. Alley will interview Orson about his new book M@IL FOR MIKEY and then field questions about their careers (including her role on B&B), their May-December marriage, etc. Orson will then autograph copies of the book. (No purchase is required, the events are free). The first evening is in the LA area, at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14, at the Barnes and Noble at the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, CA (corner of Wilshire and Third). The second is in New York City on Monday, October 20 at 7:00 p.m. at the Barnes and Noble located at 2289 Broadway (corner of 84th). (Sep 14, 2008)
As reported below, Soap Opera Digest recently reported that EILEEN DAVIDSON is headed back to THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS as Ashley full time, but now Soap Opera Weekly calls her appearances on Y&R recurring. In the meantime, Ashley's B&B days may not be over, either, as a B&B source told Soap Opera Digest that Ashley might still visit the Forresters occasionally given the ties she now has to them. In any case, look for Ashley on Y&R on September 26 and look for her to be part of Y&R's remote shoot in Paris that tapes in October and will likely air in November. (Sep 07, 2008)
EILEEN DAVIDSON, who brought her character of Ashley from THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS to B&B in March, 2007, will be returning to Genoa City for good on September 26. The actress originated the role of Ashley on Y&R in 1982 and stayed until 1988, returning to the show and the role in 1999. When Y&R let Davidson go in late 2006, she was snapped up by B&B to play the same character soon after and crossed over to Y&R now and then. But the actress recently confirmed that she had been dropped to recurring status on B&B, which meant she was available for a Y&R return. "She's going to have a huge story," hints a Y&R insider, and in fact Y&R has revealed that she will be one of four Y&R players headed to Paris for a location shoot that will likely air in November.
Ashley was last seen on B&B in early July and her absence has not been noted on air, although recent episodes of Y&R have stated that she is in Europe on business for Forrester Creations. (Aug 31, 2008)
Eric may be in critical condition on screen, but his portrayer, JOHN McCOOK, just signed a new contract to play the Forrester patriarch. (Aug 17, 2008)
HEATHER TOM (Katie) will be moonlighting on Ugly Betty this fall. She'll play a State Department liaison to Daniel's long-lost son in at least three episodes. (Aug 17, 2008)
EILEEN DAVIDSON has finally explained Ashley's absence in the B&B opening credits. "I've been put on recurring status," the actress tells Soap Opera Weekly. "They started concentrating more on the Logans; [B&B Executive Producer and head writer] Brad Bell just writes that way. He goes where the spirit moves him. It's not anything I've taken personally. He saved me at a time that was very awkward for me, in terms of being fired [from The Young & The Restless]. I love him to death." (Aug 10, 2008)
Congratulations to RONN MOSS (Ridge) and his girlfriend Devin Devasquez, who have announced their engagement. No wedding date has been set yet, but they plan to wed in 2009. (Aug 10, 2008)
There has been speculation about the status of EILEEN DAVIDSON as Ashley ever since she was removed from the show's opening credits during the last update. Although B&B stands firm in its policy not to comment on contracts, Eileen's name continues to appear in the closing credits with the contract players, and a rep for the actress told CBS Soaps in Depth, "I have no idea. I haven't heard a thing." (Aug 03, 2008)
Internet buzz says that Greek pop star/actor MARIOS ATHANASIOU might be appearing on B&B as the show tries to include celebrities from overseas to build the auidence outside the US. B&B would not confirm or deny the rumors, as it is the show's policy not to comment on casting rumors. (Aug 03, 2008)
A casting note indicates that B&B is looking to cast a young male in the contract role of Lance, a sexy, semi-pro surfer. Could the character be connected with Owen, since they revealed recently that the former investigator was a surfer in San Diego at one time? (Aug 03, 2008)
WINSOR HARMON (Thorne), LESLI KAY (Felicia) and BRANDON BEEMER (Owen) will participate in the second voyage of "Soap Cruise, " from Thursday, January 22 to Monday, January 26, 2009. Departing from Miami aboard Celebrity Cruises' lavish ship, "Celebrity Century," cruise with your favorite daytime stars to historic Key West, Florida and charming Cozumel, Mexico. Exclusive interactive activities include meet-and-greet sessions consisting of autographs and pictures, a chance to act out a scene with a soap star, soap opera trivia games, a cocktail party, and other events with all the actors. Register online at www.soapcruise.com or call 1-248-855-7918. (Aug 03, 2008)
BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL scribe KAY ALDEN will now share the title of head writer with Executive Producer BRADLEY BELL. Alden had written for YOUNG AND RESTLESS since 1974, including stints as sole head writer (1998-2002) and sharing the head writer title with Jack Smith (2002-2006). But Y&R let her go in 2006, and she was hired by B&B as an associate head writer in 2007 after a six month consulting stint at ABC. Both B&B and Y&R were created by Bell's parents William and Lee Bell. Their son was a former writer for Y&R and was named associate producer of B&B in 1989, then supervising producer in 1992. The following year, Bell took over head writing reins from his dad and also became executive producer in 1995. (July 20, 2008)
Join cast members from THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL as well as THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS and your other favorite soap operas for the 5th Annual "Evening with the Stars" on Saturday, October 11, 2008. "Evening with the Stars" benefits the Desi Geestman Foundation, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for children with cancer. For more information on The Desi Geestman Foundation, or to buy tickets to this year’s "Evening with the Stars," visit www.eveningwiththestars.com or http://desigeestmanfoundation.org/ewtso8.htm. (July 20, 2008)
Look for a revamped B&B this month, Soap Opera Digest reports. The show is being very hush-hush about what's being changed, but an insider reports that it's all in the name of appealing to a younger audience.
Many online fans suspect that the new outdoor sets and the new exterior shots with hipper music that debuted on the show in early July are part of this change.
Occasional B&B director SUSAN FLANNERY (aka Stephanie) visited the New Jersey set of GUIDING LIGHT in May to observe that show's new production model, which uses handheld cameras and outdoor shots, so there has been some speculation that this is also connected with the changes at B&B. (July 06, 2008)
MACKENZIE MAUZY (Phoebe) has moved to recurring status, having recently landed a gig in a Broadway production which will keep her off the canvas for the foreseeable future. The actress will play The Seamstress in Broadway's new musical, A Tale of Two Cities. Rehearsals are set to start on "Bastille Day", July 14th, with previews set to begin in August 19 for an opening night at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre on September 18, 2008.
A B&B spokesperson confirms that Mauzy will still recur in the future as her schedule permits. (July 06, 2008)
The rumor mill continues to churn about the status of EILEEN DAVIDSON as Ashley. While the actress appeared on the show on July 04, the latest version of the montage of actors shown during B&B's opening theme does not include her. Neither B&B nor THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS has made an official statement, many wonder whether Ashley is headed back home to Genoa City. (July 06, 2008)
The rumors persist, raising the question: Is EILEEN DAVIDSON (Ashley) headed home to Genoa City, and THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, for good? Ashley has been made several visits back home, with the latest spanning episodes from June 19 through June 23. And in her latest visit, both her big brother Jack and ex-husband Brad Carlton noted how they'd like to have Ashley around. Based on her frequent visits back to Y&R (Davidson has had four short stints on Y&R this year) and her current lack of story on B&B, many wonder if this is paving the way for Ashley to head home. (June 22, 2008)
EILEEN DAVIDSON (Ashley) makes another visit to her "hometown" of Genoa City as Ashley appears in two episodes of her alma mater, THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS on June 19 and 20. Look for Ashley to turn up in Genoa City to confront her former stepmother Gloria (played by Judith Chapman), who has recently come to a form of detente with Ashley's brother Jack. Ashley may have recently told Eric Forrester that she was grateful for her stepmother's place in her dad's life, but these episodes of Y&R might suggest that Ash was just paying lip service to her boss in L.A. "Gloria and Ashley go head-to-head," Chapman told TV Guide Canada, "and I can’t wait because Eileen Davidson is one of my acting idols on soaps."
Also along for the visit will be DARCY ROSE BYRNES (Abby), who returns to Y&R on the same day as Davidson. Abby has been off-camera for a while on both B&B and Y&R, but Byrnes will reprise the role on Y&R on June 19. (June 08, 2008)
BRANDON BEEMER finally got a name for his B&B character when B&B Head Writer/Executive Producer Bradley Bell unveiled some details about Owen Knight (see SPOILERS AND RUMORS in B&B Bulletins). But Beemer tells CBS Soaps in Depth that he knows a little more about how his character will fit into the lives of the Forresters and Logans. But don't look for him to spill his guts just yet. "You've got to leave a little bit of mystery, right?" the actor states.
Beemer finds some irony in the fact that Owen will interact with Marcus since he read for the role of Marcus himself, but the part instead went to Texas Battle. Still, the actor thinks things worked out well since he wound up getting a plum part of his own on the show, even though he lost out on the role of Marcus. (June 08, 2008)
As announced below, ROBIN RIKER has been cast in the role of Beth Logan, mother to Brooke, Donna and Katie. The actress's first airdate has been announced now as June 18. Along with Beth's return, Stephen will also be back, as PATRICK DUFFY reprises the role beginning June 20. Duffy will be on for at least three weeks, a show spokesperson confirms. (June 08, 2008)
HUNTER TYLO (Taylor) attended the First Annual Wings of Hope Benefit to raise money for The American Epilepsy Outreach Foundation (AEOF). The event will take place on Friday, June 13, from 7:00 p.m. to Midnight at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Chicago, Illiniois. Tickets are $100 and include entry, hors d’oeuvres, a signature selection of wine and beer and non-alcoholic beverages.
Tylo partnered with the AEOF in memory of her son Mickey who died of a seizure-related accident in October 2007 and who would have celebrated his 20th birthday on April 24.
Through its website, the AEOF offers information on detecting and treating seizure disorders, first aid information for someone experiencing a seizure, links to a variety of related resources and an outlet to share personal stories. The organization also distributes first aid information to schools and other public venues.
Together Tylo and the founders of AEOF hope to raise $20,000 this month to help support its programs. To make a donation, please visit www.epilepsyoutreach.org. (June 08, 2008)
Some folks take the shirt off their backs to help those in need, and HEATHER TOM (Katie) is doing just that. To celebrate her 12th Daytime Emmy nomination, Tom has asked Project Runway's Jack Mackenroth to design a one-of-a-kind gown that she'll auction off after donning it for the the award ceremony (airing June 20, on ABC). The proceeds will benefit three AIDS charities: amfAR, National Association of People with AIDS, and San Antonio AIDS Foundation.
Tom has been involved with HIV/AIDS charities since the beginning of her career on daytime television. She recently was a Surrogate on the road for Senator Hillary Clinton's presidential bid. Mackenroth has been HIV positive for 17 years and became a role model in the community after his appearance on Project Runway's Season Four.
"We both wanted to make this more than just an evening gown - we wanted to make a statement", explains Tom. "The proceeds go to three charities - amfAR, for doing all of the life saving research, the National Association of People with AIDS, for making testing a priority in people's lives, and the San Antonio AIDS Foundation, for their one of a kind client services for people living with HIV/AIDS in this country."
The auction, hosted by the Clothes Off Our Back Foundation, kicks off one week after the Daytime Emmys on June 27, aka National HIV Testing Day. Learn more about the auction and the organization at http://www.clothesoffourback.org. (June 08, 2008)
BRANDON BEEMER's character now has a name and a story. Beemer will play Owen Knight, who comes to L.A. with some connection to Donna's son, Marcus Walton. (Updated: June 01, 2008)
ROBIN RIKER has been cast as the latest Beth Logan. The character was played previously by Judith Baldwin, Nancy Burnett and Marla Adams. (May 25, 2008)
As previously announced, BRANDON BEEMER (ex-Shawn, DAYS) has joined the cast of B&B to play a new character. But not only have his character and start date not been announced yet, the actor isn't even sure himself who he's playing. Still, Beemer tells Soap Opera Digest that he's flattered that B&B Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell would sign him to a contract without even having a character in mind, so he can live with a few unknowns for now. Beemer also reveals that he originally tested for Marcus, Donna's son, but the role went to Texas Battle when B&B decided to go in a different direction. (May 18, 2008)
Canadian Actress JACQUELINE MacINNES WOOD has joined the cast The Bold and the Beautiful in the contract role of "Steffy Forrester." MacInnes Wood's first tape date is May 2, 2008. Her first airdate is scheduled for Wednesday, June 4, 2008.
Born and raised in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, MacInnes Wood moved to Toronto at age 18 to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. Her first job, as "The Hair Girl" in a First Choice Hair Cutter's national commercial, continues to play to this day. Soon after, she landed the job of host on the global series, Gamer Girlz. MacInnes Wood then enlisted in acting classes at Ryerson University, Centre for the Arts and the Armstrong Acting Studio. In 2007, she appeared as "Faith the Model" in Paul Reiser's TBS micro-series, Lovebites, as "Candice" in Donny Wahlberg's UPN series M.V.P., "Julie Gunn" in the Disney pilot, Skyrunners, as well as a lead role in the Hallmark movie, Nightmare at the end of the Hall, scheduled to air in the near future. (May 04, 2008)
TEXAS BATTLE has joined the cast of the Bold & Beautiful to play the role of Marcus. Word has it that Marcus has a connection to Donna and it is believed that he may be her illegitimate son. Look for Battle to first air the week of March 12. (May 04, 2008)
BRANDON BEEMER has been cast in the role of a new character. Best known for playing Shawn on DAYS OF OUR LIVES, Beemer was rumored to have been in talks with B&B, but now his casting has been confirmed. (May 04, 2008)
WILLIAM deVRY makes his dramatic exit as Storm this week, with Storm leaving a lot of damage in his wake. (April 27, 2008)
LESLI KAY's Felicia pays another visit to THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS on April 21 and 22. Look for Felicia to continue to flirt with the very much married Nick Newman as she continues coordinating Forrester's ads in Restless Style, the magazine run by Ashley's brother Jack, Nick Newman and their spouses. (Updated: April 20, 2008)
PATRICK DUFFY returns as Stephen Logan to help his family with a crisis on May 1. (April 13, 2008)
Although Phoebe announces plans to tour with Constantine this week, a spokesperson for the show states that MACKENZIE MAUZY, who portrays Phoebe, isn't leaving the show. The spokesperson also states that Constantine Maroulis is not reprising the role of Constantine, even with Phoebe joining Maroulis's on-screen alter ego on tour. owever, Phoebe will be off the canvas while the character is on tour and won't be seen again on-screen until May. (Updated: April 13, 2008)
TV GUIDE CANDA's Nelson Branco talks to original B&B cast member and fan favorite KATHERINE KELLY LANG (Brooke) at the online magazine's web site. Check it out at by clicking here. (April 06, 2008)
B&B recently issued a casting notice for a handsome, athletic actor in his early twenties, according to CBS Soaps in Depth, sparking rumors that the show may be recasting Thomas Forrester. Drew Tyler Bell, who presently plays Thomas on a recurring basis, admits that he doesn't see a full-time return to the show in his future because of his building a career in prime time and movies, so the show would need a recast if they needed Thomas back on the canvas.
Additionally, a setside source tells the magazine that the show is seeking young actresses in their early 20s as a new love interest for Rick. (March 30, 2008)
LESLI KAY pays another visit to Genoa City when Felicia appears on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS on April 8 and 9. Look for Felicia to clash with Ashley's sister-in-law Sharon and to flirt with Sharon's ex-husband Nick. (March 30, 2008)
As previously reported, LESLI KAY makes her first of several appearances on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS this week as Felicia attends the RESTLESS STYLE launch with Ashley. But while it's true that Felicia will be back for more Y&R visits after the party, does it mean Felicia is leaving Los Angeles behind for now? The actress tells Soap Opera Weekly that she doesn't think so. "That's such a rumor. Honestly, I've not talked to anyone about that," Kay tells SPW's Y&R/B&B editor in the April 01 issue. "There is more than this appearance," she adds, "but I don't think Brad [Bell, B&B's head writer and executive producer] would give up Felicia and Stephanie and that whole dynamic." (March 23, 2008)
EILEEN DAVIDSON (Ashley) and LESLI KAY (Felicia) visit Genoa City on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS as they attend the launch party for RESTLESS STYLE, the magazine launched by Ashley's brother Jack, on March 25 and 26. The second day is significant in that it is the 35th anniversary of Y&R's debut. As reported previously, Felicia's visit to Genoa City may be extended; Lesli Kay's manager, Michael Bruno, told CBS Soaps in Depth that Y&R originally asked for Lesli to appear in the two episodes, but then asked if she could appear in three more. (March 16, 2008)
A B&B rep has confirmed that LESLEY-ANNE DOWN (Jackie) has signed a new contract. While there were reports that the actress might be ready to leave due to Jackie's recent lack of storyline, she reported on her web site, www.lesleyannedown.com, that "there are many more years to come" for her on B&B. While the show confirmed that Lesley-Anne has signed a new contract, the show's policy is not to discuss contract terms. (March 16, 2008)
B&B is looking to cast a beautiful brunette in her late twenties who is described as being a good girl with a hidden dark side. (March 16, 2008)
KYLE LOWDER (Rick) will sing The National Anthem at the opening of the Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Arizona Diamondbacks game on Thursday, April 24, 2008. The game begins at 7:00 pm at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, CA. Information on purchasing tickets can be found at www.dodgers.com. (March 16, 2008)
Tune in to see IAN BUCHANAN (Dr. James Warwick) on TV Guide Network's "Fashion Team" Sunday, March 30, 2008. Check your local listings for times and channel. (March 16, 2008)
IS SUSAN FLANNERY (Stephanie) retiring? It may not be happening now, but in a recent interview given by the actress to an Australian TV show, Ms. Flannery states that she likely will leave "in another year or so." The actress said that she still needs to think her decision through, adding, "You know, you're in the grave a long time, and it's nice to be able to do other things, so I'm seriously considering it." The soap reporter for TV GUIDE Canada (http://www.tvguide.ca), Nelson Branco, recently paid a visit to the B&B set and spoke to Ms. Flannery about these statements, and that interview was posted at the TV Guide site on Tuesday, March 4; you can read it here. (Updated March 09, 2008)
Is LESLI KAY (Felicia) going to THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS? Neither show has confirmed yet, but TV GUIDE Canada's sources state that Ms. Kay started taping episodes of Y&R last week - and the sources say that the move could become permanent. One source told the online magazine, "[Brad Bell, B&B's executive producer/head writer] loves Lesli to death and doesn't want to lose her but at this point he can't utilize her the way she wants, so instead of losing her, he lent her to Y&R untll he can bring her back. Of course this is all still dependent on whether or not the crossover sparks with audience." (March 02, 2008)
TRACY LINDSEY MELCHIOR returns to B&B when Kristen shows up for her parents' anniversary party on March 07, March 10 and March 11. The actress, who appears on a recurring basis as needed as Kristen, last appeared in late 2006 when the Forresters agreed to sell their company to Nick. Melchior also reportedly read for a new role at Y&R recently, a character named Erin, and a source said she had a strong audition. So perhaps she might be showing up on B&B's sister show in the future?
Also returning for the anniversary, but for a longer stay, is ALLEY MILLS as Stephanie's sister Pamela Douglas. Last time she was in town, we learned Pam was kind of loopy when not taking her medication, and look for that to be followed up on when Pam returns on March 07. (March 02, 2008)
MACKENZIE MAUZY returns to the screen as Phoebe on February 28. Although the actress has remained on contract with the show, this marks the first time Phoebe has been seen since the Christmas, 2007 episode. (February 24, 2008)
KYLE LOWDER (Rick) tells Soaps In Depth that there was never any truth to rumors that he was leaving B&B to return to DAYS OF OUR LIVES as Brady. Lowder thinks fan speculation started when his former DAYS on-screen sweetheart Nadia Bjorlin returned to the show and when Brady was mentioned repeatedly, but he was always happy at B&B and had no intention of leaving.
On a more personal note, Lowder and his wife, Arianne Zuker, have worked out their differences and are back together. (February 24, 2008)
JOHN McCOOK and EILEEN DAVIDSON will bring their B&B characters of Eric and Ashley over to THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS for three episodes on February 26, 27 and 28. In the Y&R story, Ashley's brother Jack (Peter Bergman) takes his wife Sharon and stepson Noah to Los Angeles to convince Forrester Creations to advertise in Jack's new venture, an online magazine called RESTLESS STYLE. Ashley sets up a meeting for her brother with Eric. While all this will happen in scenes airing on Y&R, B&B fans who are watching will feel right at home, since B&B sent the set for Eric's office at Forrester over to the Y&R soundstage for the episodes. DARCY ROSE BYRNES, who plays Ashley's daughter Abby on both Y&R and B&B, will also appear in those episodes. (February 17, 2008)
Will a loss by DAYS OF OUR LIVES be B&B's gain? Sources are saying that BRANDON BEEMER, who was recently let go by DAYS from his role of Shawn, has been contacted by B&B to join the B&B cast. Beemer has confirmed that he was contacted by another soap, but he did not name B&B as the soap specifically. A B&B rep told Soap Opera Weekly that Beemer was not a member of the B&B cast - but could they have meant that he is NOT YET a cast member? Stay tuned. (February 17, 2008)
WRITERS' STRIKE ENDS: The long and bitter writers' strike that has wreaked havoc on the entertainment industry is over.
The first steps toward ending the strike started early on Saturday via statements from leaders of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) to the Guild's members. "We have a tentative deal," stated WGA West president Patric Verrone and WGA East president Michael Winship in a letter to their members Saturday morning. After briefings for members later Saturday in New York and Los Angeles, the boards for both branches of the WGA on Sunday unanimously approved the tentative deal reached on a new contract. The boards then took the final decision on lifting the strike to membership in a vote on Tuesday, February 12. Showrunners and writers with producing responsibilities on their shows were allowed to return to work on Monday February 11 to get crews set up and production facilities going again, while the writers themselves were allowed to return to work on Wednesday once the WGA's vote to end the strike passed on Tuesday. Ballots to ratify the three-year deal also went out to members, to be returned within a 10-12 day period.
What does this mean for B&B? It means an end to the strike that took most of its writers, including Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell, away from writing the show, resulting in episodes without credited writers airing in recent weeks once scripts and breakdowns from the writing team ran out. Associate Head Writer Kay Alden recently returned to the show as interim head writer when she opted for "Financial Core" status that would allow her to write during the strike (see below), and the first episode credited to her in that role aired on February 05. But an end to the strike would mean that Bell and his full writing team could return to work. (Updated: February 17, 2008)
IAN BUCHANAN's current stint as James is done for now, but expect Taylor's friend and mentor to return to the canvas in early March. While he presently has commitments to a cabaret troupe in New York City that require him to travel back East, the on-screen doctor is willing to remain "on-call" to work around that and appear when B&B needs him. Buchanan tells CBS Soaps In Depth that he would also be open to discussing a contract to return to B&B if asked, but he's fine with the current relationship as well. (February 10, 2008)
Sources tell Soap Opera Digest that THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS would like to see EILEEN DAVIDSON return to Genoa City as Ashley. The actress, who was let go from Y&R in late 2006 when the show chose not to renew her contract, recently appeared on Y&R for 3 days around New Year's to visit Ashley's big brother Jack and her ex-, Victor, and Y&R fans were glad to see Ashley "back home".
Davidson came to B&B in early 2007 when Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell decided to bring Ashley, a character his late dad had great fondness for, to B&B after Y&R let the actress go. Davidson is currently under contract to B&B, but with the Bell family having a hand in both shows (the family owns B&B and co-owns Y&R with SONY), only TPTB can say whether such a return is possible and how it would affect stories Ashley is currently involved with on B&B. (February 10, 2008)
B&B WRITERS' STRIKE UPDATE: Based on the credits in recent episodes, B&B has reached the point where scripts and stories created by the writing team before the Writers Guild of America struck have run out. The last episode to have full scripts credited to the full writing team aired on January 9. As of the episode that aired on January 10, only head writer Bradley Bell and associate head writers Michael Minnis, Kay Alden and Elizabeth Snyder were credited, which meant at least some part of those episodes was written by them before the strike. It's possible that the only parts written by them were breakdowns and outlines, with dialog written by uncredited scabs; only The Powers that Be at B&B can say for sure how much of those shows were written by Bell and the associate head writers, who were last credited on the episode that aired on January 21. As of the episode that aired on January 22, there were no credited writers for B&B.
In Carolyn Hinsey's column in the NY Daily News on Friday, January 25, she revealed that Kay Alden is currently in charge of the writing at B&B. Based on information found at other sites, Ms. Alden has at some recent point gone to Financial Core (FiCore) status with the WGA; FiCore status allows WGA union members to return to work without censure in return for surrendering certain rights and privileges within the guild. Since FiCore writers can be credited without being at risk due to the strike, at some point in the near future, Ms. Alden's name will be back in the B&B credits. Any episodes with no names listed as writers until then were written by uncredited scabs. (January 27, 2008)
WILLIAM deVRY returns as Storm on January 25. "I don't know what they have in store," the actor tells Soap Opera Digest, "but I do know that Storm will be around." (January 13, 2008)
Sources tell Soap Opera Digest that two popular stars are telling castmates they're on the way out due to the frustrating lack of story balance. (January 13, 2008)
KYLE LOWDER (Rick) tells Soap Opera Digest that rumors of his returning to DAYS OF OUR LIVES are just that. While his former DAYS costar Nadia Bjorlin wanted him back on DAYS when she recently returned, he told her that he is happy on B&B. (January 06, 2008)
PATRICK DUFFY (Stephen) concludes his second short run on the show on January 11, although B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell would like to see the actor back again when availability permits. WILLIAM deVRY takes Storm to Europe with Stephen that same day, but sources say Storm's story is not over and deVry will continue to recur on the show. (January 06, 2008)
As recently reported, B&B is seeking to recast the role of Taylor's brother Zach with an actor in his late 20s. In the new Soap Opera Digest, a source says that the show decided to make Zach younger to put him in a triangle with Katie and Bridget, even though the character dated Felicia previously. (January 06, 2008)
IAN BUCHANAN returns as Dr. James Warwick on January 28. Last seen in 2004 when Massimo enlisted his aid in staging an intervention for the pregnant Brooke, James returns to L.A. at Nick's request to help a troubled Taylor. (December 30, 2007)
HEATHER TOM (Katie) confirms on her official web site that she has signed a new three-year deal to remain with B&B. (December 30, 2007)
Ever since the Writers' Strike began, Internet rumors claimed that B&B would go on hiatus after a February 15 episode that would end in a cliffhanger wedding. A B&B representative tells Soap Opera Weekly that there is no truth to this rumor. "We appreciate our fans and how concerned they are," the rep states. "B&B remains in production and we are currently taping episodes that will air in the new year."
Soap Opera Digest reports that B&B has another disgruntled actor who is upset about lack of storyline. A setside source tells SOD that the steamed star may soon ask to be released, but will wait until the new year. (December 16, 2007)
According to a casting report in the new SOD, DAYS OF OUR LIVES made a play to get KYLE LOWDER (Rick) back in the role of Brady, and Kyle was even spotted on the DAYS set recently. However, sources tell the magazine that CBS quashed the deal, preferring to keep Lowder where he is. (December 16, 2007)
EILEEN DAVIDSON (Ashley) returns to Genoa City for a three-day arc on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS airing on Friday, December 28, and Tuesday, January 2 and Wednesday, January 3, 2008. (December 09, 2007)
WRITERS' STRIKE UPDATE: Although recent resumed negotiations between the Writers' Guild of America (WGA) and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) seemed to be headed in the right direction this past week, talks stalled again as of Friday, December 07. You can read the details of statements from both the WGA and the AMPTP at TV Guide Online's WGA STRIKE WATCH page. (December 09, 2007)
THE WRITERS GUILD OF AMERICA's contract expired at the end of October. The WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers were unable to come to terms on a new agreement due to impasses on issues such as residuals and distribution of shows, so the WGA went on strike on Monday, November 05. The writers for daytime dramas like B&B are members of the WGA, so all soaps were affected when the WGA members decided to strike.
What does this mean for B&B? In anticipation of a potential strike, soap operas worked to stockpile additional weeks' worth of scripts during the days and weeks leading up to the strike. Based on statements from CBS, B&B has at least enough scripts to carry them into January, 2008, so the show can continue at least until then. In the meantime, an industry trade publication reported that B&B Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell (who is a member of the WGA) marched in the picket lines outside CBS Television City (where B&B tapes) in support of the strike, but Bell tells Soap Opera Digest that he is still involved with the show in his non-writing capacity as Executive Producer.
Presently, many TV and movie viewers support the WGA members as they strike, as these viewers want to see the writers get their fair share of the profits from the work they create. If you support the WGA and want to find out how you can help show your support, go to the Fans4Writers web site by clicking on the banner below. (November 18, 2007)
ALLEY MILLS returns as Stephanie's sister, Pamela Douglas, on November 27. Mills first appeared on a short term basis in December, 2006 and soon after was signed to a contract to reprise the role in early 2007. However, Pam's story never took off and Pam apparently returned to Chicago with her mother Ann. Look for Pam's return to be tied to her sister's shooting. (November 25, 2007)
When HEATHER TOM joined the B&B cast in July, the actress requested a six month contract to see how things worked out. The actress tells CBS Soaps In Depth that her contract is up in January, so she has no idea how long Katie will be around for at this time. (November 25, 2007)
B&B is looking for a 28-32 year-old "well-built, intelligent and edgy" male to play the role of ZACH HAMILTON, Taylor's rebellious little brother. Zach was last played by Michael Watson in 1992 and was romantically linked to Felicia (then Colleen Dion) until both characters left L.A. together. Although Felicia came back several times over the years, first with Dion reprising the role and then with Lesli Kay taking on the role in 2005, Zach has not been seen since, although his sister Taylor has mentioned him a few times.
(Note from Scott: Casting a 28-32 year old as Zach seems a bit odd, since Zach was in his 20s when last seen. With Zach's last appearance being during the time Brooke was pregnant with Bridget, he should still be close to Felicia's age, yet the casting description places him closer to Rick and Bridget than to Felicia). (November 11, 2007)
It may be 15 years since TODD McKEE last appeared on B&B as Jake Maclaine, but the actor hasn't completely severed ties with the show. The actor tells Soap Opera Digest that he and current B&B Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell (then just a writer for the show) became friends back when McKee played Jake, and the two have played tennis regularly ever since. The court buddies didn't discuss work, however, until a recent tennis outing when Bell told McKee that he was thinking about bringing back Jake. A week later, the actor received a script with Jake's return, so he's back for a limited run. And while Jake's current appearances are only for a limited time, with Jake as an integral part of a November sweeps story, the actor says he'd be willing to stick around if asked.
Ironically, even though Jake was romantically linked with Felicia before having an affair with Macy, McKee tells CBS Soaps in Depth that he has yet to really interact with his ex- (now played by Lesli Kay).
Look for Jake's reappearance in L.A. on November 14. (November 11, 2007)
HUNTER TYLO UPDATES: In the days since the tragic death of Michael "Mickey" Tylo Jr., son of Hunter Tylo (Taylor), more information has been released by representatives of the actress and of B&B to clarify some of the information, rumors and misconceptions in the press since the news broke:
- Mickey was staying with his half brother Chris (Hunter's son from a previous marriage) at the family's home in Henderson, NV, at the time of his death. Mickey, who had recently moved in with his mother in Los Angeles to begin college in January, was in Nevada to visit his girlfriend, Stephanie Rivero.
- Chris found Mickey's body in the swimming pool and summoned police and paramedics, As previously reported, Mickey suffered from seizures and had fallen in the pool after a seizure, with the cause of death, as determined by the coroner, listed as accidental drowning.
- Hunter was at her Los Angeles home having dinner when Chris called her with the news of what happened.
- Hunter was not scheduled to be at work the week following her son's death, and a B&B spokesperson reports that only one script had to be rewritten to accomodate Hunter's absence. In addition, Hunter missed a cast photo shoot the Monday after Mickey's death, but they arranged for a stand-in for her so she could be digitally added to the photo later.
- The B&B spokesperson added that Hunter would be given whatever time off she needed and quashed Internet rumors that Hunter had asked to be released from her B&B contract.
Once again, The World of B&B extends its sympathies to Hunter and to her family in light of the tragedy. Flowers and cards can be sent to Hunter care of the B&B offices (The Bold and the Beautiful, Bell-Phillip Television, 7800 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036). (November 04, 2007)
TODD McKEE returns to B&B as Jake Maclaine for a limited run on November 14. Long time viewers will remember that Jake was the brother of Forrester designer Margo Lynley and the uncle to her son Mark (who later appeared as an adult doctor, using the family name of Maclaine, years later), and that he was prursued romantically by both Donna Logan (then Carrie Mitchum, now Jennifer Gareis) and Felicia Forrester (then Colleen Dion, now Lesli Kay). Felicia seemed to have won Jake's affections when she, with Taylor's help, helped him cope with memories of sexual abuse as a child, but he then fell for Macy and had an affair with her while she was married to Thorne. Jake last appeared in 1992.
Macy is of course dead now, but both Donna and Felicia are both on the canvas. Will Jake's visit be connected to one of them? Stay tuned. (November 04, 2007)
HUNTER TYLO's son Michael Tylo Jr. (a.k.a. Mickey) was remembered on Friday, October 26 by more than 200 family and friends at a Los Angeles memorial. Hunter spoke about her son at the service, as did the boy's father, Michael Tylo Sr. Michael Sr. was joined by Mickey's younger sisters, Katya and Izabella, and Mickey's older brother, Christopher, who gave Mickey a tearful farewell at the end of the service. Many of the cast and crew of The Bold and the Beautiful were in attendance, including executive producer Bradley Bell and actors Susan Flannery, Jennifer Gareis, Katherine Kelly Lang and John McCook. The B&B set was shut down for the day. Actor John O'Hurley and his wife also attended.
A memorial site was set up for Michael Tylo Jr. at http://michael-tylo-jr.memory-of.com (October 28, 2007)
Tragedy has once again struck the life of HUNTER TYLO (Taylor). The actress's 19 year old son passed away in an accidental drowning on the night of Thursday, October 18.
Michael Tylo Jr., the Bold and the Beautiful actress's oldest child with ex-husband Michael Tylo, was discovered in the backyard of the actress's Nevada home by an unidentified family member. He was pronounced dead at 11:55 p.m., according to the Clark County Coroner. A coroner's spokesman reported that it seemed like the teenager, who suffered from a seizure disorder, had a seizure and then fell into the family's pool. Toxicology tests have been ordered as part of the office's standard procedure, and the results should be available within a few weeks.
Hunter has two other children from her marriage to Michael Tylo, daughters Izabella, 10, and Katya, 9. The actress also has a 27-year-old son, Christopher, from her first marriage to Tom Morehart.
Representatives for the actress and for B&B confirmed the tragic death of Hunter's son, but Hunter and her family have not offered any comments at this time.
The actress is no stranger to family tragedy, as her youngest child, Katya, was diagnosed in 1998 with a rare cancer of the right eye called retinoblastoma. Doctors removed the eye and began chemotherapy, but tumors were detected in Katya's other eye later that year. To the amazement of her doctors, those tumors soon inexplicably disappeared. Katya has since recovered and wears a prosthetic right eye.
The World of The Bold and the Beautiful offers its condolences and prayers to Hunter and her family in their time of grief. (October 19, 2007)
MYKEL SHANNON JENKINS joins the cast of THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL in the contract role of “Charlie Baker,” Executive Producer and Head Writer, Bradley P. Bell announced today. “Charlie” is the son of “Lt. Baker” (played by Dan Martin) and has recently made detective rank within the police department. “Charlie” is introduced on canvas in the aftermath of “Eric’s” (played by John McCook) resurgence as owner of Forrester Creations and is an integral part of B&B’s hottest and most suspenseful story-arc of the year.
Jenkins was the winner of the first season of I Wanna be a Soap Star and most recently did a two-show arc on Ugly Betty as well as an episode of Saving Grace. His other credits include CSI Miami, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and In Justice.
Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, the son of an officer in the United States Air Force, Mykel was raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. While in high school, Mykel was a nationalist in drama and speech and debate. Soon after graduating with a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University, Mykel became a household name as the host of New Orleans’ WB38 Kids’ Club, where for more than four years he served as an on-air personality introducing kids and their parents to a world of knowledge.
Jenkins’ first tape date is October 23, 2007 and his first airdate is November 21, 2007. (October 21, 2007)
With SUSAN FLANNERY returning to B&B this week as Stephanie, there is speculation about how long the actress will remain. The actress's contract is reportedly up in November, so there are some questions about whether or not she will re-sign given her recent extended leave due to illness. At this time, all this is speculation and rumor, and nothing is certain. (October 14, 2007)
Tune in as B&B's RONN MOSS (Ridge) visits with John Edward on "John Edward Cross Country" on Saturday, October 27, 2007 on the WE Network. Check your local listings for time and channel. Moss is the second B&B star to appear on the show, as Eileen Davidson (Ashley) appeared in September for a reading where Edward, the acclaimed psychic medium, attempted to communicate with the actress's late father.
Michael Logan reports in his TV Guide column that Edward will conduct a reading with Moss to communicate with the late Darlene Conley (Sally), who was close friends with Moss. For some B&B related information about what came out of the reading, see the "Spoilers and Rumors" section of B&B Bulletins. (October 14, 2007)
B&B recently put out a casting call for a twenty-something African American police officer. Some reports said the character's last name was Baker, leading to speculation of a connection to police Lieutenant Bradley Baker, who appears on a recurring basis when crimes occur on B&B. (October 14, 2007)
Soap Opera Digest reports that two other soaps tried to woo a B&B starlet away, but the unnamed actress is staying put on B&B for now. (October 14, 2007)
PATRICK DUFFY is returning to The Bold and the Beautiful as Brooke's father, Stephen Logan, in November as part of a big storyline coming up. Duffy took over the role of Stephen, which had been originated by Robert Pine, in April, 2006 and left a few months later when Stephen left town and returned to Paris. Reports are that the former DALLAS star will first air on B&B on November 5.
For hints about why Stephen is returning, check out the SPOILERS & RUMORS section of the
B&B Bulletins page. (October 05, 2007)
BETTY WHITE will make a return appearance on B&B as Ann Douglas on October 19, coinciding with the return of Susan Flannery as Stephanie. (October 05, 2007)
As reported below, SUSAN FLANNERY (Stephanie) took time off recently for a combination of vacation time and time to recover from illness. The actress was under the weather prior to the show's summer hiatus in early August and requested additional time to recover. Since Stephanie's presence in the story was pivotal and recasting an actress of Ms. Flannery's caliber was out of the question, scripts had to be rewritten to accommodate the absence of the actress. John McCook (Eric) tells Soap Opera Weekly that powerful scenes where Eric packed Stephanie's bags and threw her out of the house had to be scrapped for the rewrites. Still, McCook is relieved that his co-star is recovering, stating, "I respect what happened. Susan was sick. She's better now. When she gets back, all hell will break loose." In the meantime, the actor is making the most of Eric's time without Stephanie around, confident that Stephanie will "get her due over and over again" when she makes her reappearance.
As far as that reappearance goes, Flannery was due back on the set the week of September 17, with Stephanie's first airdate scheduled for October 19.
Lynda Hirsch's syndicated soap column reports that Flannery suffers from fibromyalgia, an intermittent, interconnective tissue ailment which is not fatal, but has numerous debilitating symptoms. At its worst, "sleep" becomes the sufferers one and only hobby, and the sufferer also feels severe muscle aches.
The World of B&B is pleased that Ms. Flannery's better after her illness and looks forward to seeing her back on the screen in October, since her presence was sorely missed. (September 23, 2007)
KYLE LOWDER (Rick) will be performing at The World Famous Whiskey A Go Go- THE EXISTENTS are thrilled to announce an exclusive West Coast Premiere Concert Presentation on Monday, Oct. 8th, 2007 at 9pm at the legendary Whisky A Go Go (on the Sunset Strip) Ty Taylor (RockStar:INXS), Eden Espinosa (Wicked), Jason Wooten (We Will Rock You), Carly Thomas-Smith (Rent), Douglas Crawford (Jersey Boys), Kyle Lowder (The Bold & The Beautiful), and Debby Holiday (Nebula 9 Records) will perform selections from The New Rock Musical written by Douglas Crawford, Ty Taylor, & Jason Wooten! Tickets are $10. This is a One Night Only opportunity and promises to be an event you will not want to miss! Whisky A Go Go, 8901 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069. For ticket info, go to www.whiskyagogo.com. (September 09, 2007)
If you're a fan of LESLEY-ANNE DOWN (Jackie), here's some information on how you can keep up to date on what's happening with the actress. Lesley-Anne has an official fan club, and there is also a blog where you can get information on either the fan club or the actress, and you can even submit questions to the Fan Club president for Lesley-Anne to answer. You can get to the blog at http://lesley-annedown.blogspot.com . For an application form to join the Official Lesley-Anne Down Fan Club, click here. As a Fan Club member you will receive a membership kit that includes an 8x10 signed color photo of Lesley-Anne, a welcome letter, a fact sheet and a career review.
During your membership, the Fan Club will do its best to send update letters from Lesley-Anne, a holiday card and a journal.
If you have any questions about the fan club, you can send an email to Fan Club President Gea Vermeulen at avermeul@kpnplanet.nl. (September 23, 2007)
In an interview in the 25-Sep-2007 issue, KATHERINE KELLY LANG (Brooke) tells Soap Opera Weekly that her recent rape story was something she and her husband pitched to B&B Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell. "I wanted to see Brooke go through something different than 'Which man am I going to be with?'" she tells the magazine, so she and husband Alex D'Andrea came up with the idea for the rape and went to Bell. Although Bell was initially hesitant about Brooke going through such an ordeal, Lang talked with a friend and came up with some additional ideas before she made another pitch to Bell, who then agreed to go with the general idea and worked out the details. (September 16, 2007)
Former B&B star SEAN KANAN (ex-Deacon) was arrested by LAPD on suspicion of DUI during the wee hours of August 18. Kanan was charged with two counts of driving under the influence of alcohol and driving with a blood alcohol of .08 or greater, and the actor posted $30,000 bail. Kanan returned to court on September 17 and pleaded not guilty to the charges. If convicted, Kanan faces a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine, per count. Since Kanan was convicted of DUI in 1998, a second DUI carries a minimum jail sentence of 96 hours. A rep for Kanan had no comment. (Updated: September 23, 2007)
Soap Opera Digest reports that SUSAN FLANNERY (Stephanie) will be off The Bold and the Beautiful temporarily due to a combination of illness/vacation. "Storylines had to be quickly rewritten," an insider told the magazine, which is why Steph is MIA when her part in Brooke's attack is exposed. Flannery's last airdate before her break is September 11. (September 09, 2007)
The Desi Geestman Foundation's 4th Annual "EVENING WITH THE STARS" is a meet and greet cocktail party where fans can mingle, get autographs and bid on fantastic items featured in the silent auction alongside some of the biggest names in Daytime Television. Members from the cast of The Bold and the Beautiful, as well as other daytime stars, are expected to be in attendance. In previous years over 50 of daytime's most popular stars and more than 500 fans attended the event, to benefit the Desi Geestman Foundation (DGF). This year's event is being held on Sunday, October 7, 2007 from 7-10pm at Club Ivar in Hollywood, California, located at 6356 Hollywood Blvd.
The Desi Geestman Foundation (DGF) is a 501c3 non-profit organization. The DGF is the wish of a young girl, Desiree (Desi). At age 12, Desi succumbed to a form of pediatric cancer, but her spirit lives on as the foundation "touches the lives of children with cancer." After the founding of DGF in 1999, the cast and crew from daytime television shows quickly enlisted to help raise funds and awareness of pediatric cancer and the impact the disease has on the entire family. Desi's father, Bernie, has been a crew member for The Bold and the Beautiful for many years.
The DGF is based in Los Angeles and works to provide both financial and emotional support to children and their families while struggling with the illness.
In past years, this red carpet event has raised tens of thousands of dollars to help Pediatric Cancer patients and this year's event promises to be even more exciting, as past years' stars are attending and bringing their cast mates.
For additional information or to purchase tickets for this benefit (up to the day of the event) over the phone at 818.249.1105 or web at www.eveningwiththestars.com. (September 09, 2007)
A show rep reports that CONSTANTINE MAROULIS (Constantine) is now on recurring status with the show and will appear as storyline dictates. The singer/actor is currently touring to promote his CD, but he's willing to appear on B&B again if his schedule permits. (September 02, 2007)
Look for Stephanie's mother Ann to return soon, B&B Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell tells Soap Opera Digest, provided actress BETTY WHITE is available. "There's an opportunity coming up and I hope it works out," Bell states. (August 26, 2007)
HEATHER TOM tells Soap Opera Digest that she wasn't looking to get back into daytime after ONE LIFE TO LIVE released her from the role of Kelly. But when B&B head honcho Bradley Bell called her about taking on the role of Brooke's youngest sibling Katie, Heather changed her mind. Heather had of course worked for the Bell family for years on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS as Victoria Newman, so she freely admits, "Brad is the only person I want to work for, so I'm really happy to be back on a Bell family show." And to make things even more fitting for the new role, Heather had dyed her blonde hair several months ago and is now a brunette, just as the original Katie was on B&B over the years.
When Bradley Bell first contacted Heather, they talked about a longer contract, but they decided to settle on a six month agreement to see how things work out.
Tom's first B&B air date is August 30. (August 12, 2007)
Folks on the show are voting in the BOLDFACE CHALLENGE, and you can, too. Point your browser to www.boldfacerecords.com - or you can go to http://www.cbs.com/daytime/bb/behind/specials/constantine/challenge/ if you want - and cast your vote for Rick and Phoebe or for Constantine and Phoebe. You can vote via text message or from the web site, and you might even win a trip for two to visit the B&B set. (August 12, 2007)
Rob McKenzie of the National Post in Canada paid a visit to the B&B set in late July, just before the show went on their summer hiatus. He got to watch scenes with Ridge and Ashley and Thorne and Donna get taped, and he spoke with actors Ronn Moss (Ridge), Jennifer Gareis (Donna) and William deVry (Storm), as well as supervising producer Rhonda Friedman, about the show's stories and its longevity. Check out the article, which includes some peeks into B&B's future, by clicking here. (August 12, 2007)
HEATHER TOM, who played Y&R's Victoria Newman from 1991-2003 (with a short stint off the show in 1997) and most recently played Kelly Cramer on ONE LIFE TO LIVE, has signed a six month contract to work on B&B. She began work on July 18. While B&B has not made an official confirmation of the character Ms. Tom will play, inside sources say that she's playing Brooke's youngest sibling, Katie Logan, and that she's already taped scenes with on-screen sisters Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke) and Jennifer Gareis (Donna). As stated below, the show recently announced that they were recasting the part of Katie. (July 29, 2007)
B&B had already announced an upcoming on-air concert with Constantine (played by Constantine Maroulis) and singer/songwriter Jon McLaughlin (whose song "Beautiful Disaster" is on the charts now) as a guest. But apparently there's going to be one more guest as American Idol season 5 finalist ELLIOTT YAMIN appears as well. Yamin is currently on the charts with his song "Wait For You."
When Constantine (who was a finalist in American Idol season 4) was first hired to appear on B&B, Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell stated that other Idol alumni might appear, so the appearance of Yamin isn't a total surprise. Yamin's MySpace page lists his B&B appearance as airing August 24. (July 29, 2007)
CONSTANTINE MAROULIS (Constantine) could be sticking around B&B, Soap Opera Digest reports. "We'll have to see," Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell tells SOD. "We did a short-term contract, but he's enjoying working with us and we really enjoy working with him. A surprise relationship is going to emerge for his character." (July 22, 2007)
B&B is recasting the role of KATIE LOGAN, the youngest Logan sibling. Katie was played by Nancy Sloan when B&B premiered in 1987, although the character was phased out as the Logan family's presence was diminished in 1988. Sloan continued to appear on a recurring basis in the 90's as needed and was last seen on the show in 2004. (July 22, 2007)
On Tuesday, July 24, The Bold and the Beautiful will be taping a special concert featuring CONSTANTINE MAROULIS (Constantine) and special guest singer-songwriter and pianist JON MCLAUGHLIN. B&B is looking for 200 volunteer extras to appear in these concert scenes. If you'd like to be part of this taping, go to http://www.cbs.com/daytime/bb/about/justin/ for details. (July 15, 2007)
Actor, Comedian, Musician ALAN THICKE returns to the canvas of The Bold and the Beautiful, reprising his role as Talk Show Host Rich Ginger on Monday, August 6. Best known for his role as Jason Seaver on Growing Pains, Thicke first appeared on The Bold and the Beautiful in August, 2006 as controversial talk show host Ginger, who surprised Donna Logan when she signed on to be the new spokesmodel for Forrester Creations. Ginger is back when Stephanie and Phoebe Forrester appear on his show to promote Forrester Originals' newest product. (July 01, 2007)
16-year-old Pop/R&B prodigy singer, LIL' KEESHA will make her first guest star appearance on daytime television on The Bold and the Beautiful. Having just completed a six-song CD/EP titled, The Prodigy, Lil’ Keesha began her singing career at age three and has since become a versatile singer-dancer-actress who is also an 11th grade honor student in Los Angeles, CA. Lil' Keesha is best known for her explosive 4-octave range voice which is on full display on "The Prodigy," whose first single is a remake of the Donna Summer, Oscar® and Grammy®-Award winning song "Last Dance."
On B&B, Lil' Keesha will be an artist for Constantine's record label Boldface Records, and she'll perform her new single "Heaven Knows." Her airdate is scheduled for July 30, 2007. (July 01, 2007)
SCHAE HARRISON reprises her role as the late Darla Forrester on July 25 and 26, when Darla appears to her widowed husband Thorne when he needs her most. (July 01, 2007)
LESLI KAY (Felicia) just completed work on ANNA NICOLE, a made for TV movie about the life of the late model/actress Anna Nicole Smith. Kay played Ginger, an assistant, friend and confidante to Smith (who is portrayed by singer/actress Willa Ford). (July 01, 2007)
JENNIFER GAREIS (Donna), who had been placed on recurring status in recent months for story purposes, has been put back on contract and will return to the air on July 06. (July 01, 2007)
WILLIAM deVRY will return as Storm Logan on July 17 - 19. CBS Soaps in Depth asked the actor if he's worried about his character's life on the show since he was placed on recurring status earlier this year. deVry admits that he would have liked to be incorporated into the show in a more meaningful way, but he's nevertheless glad to be able to appear on B&B on a recurring basis, since it allows him the chance to continue as Storm while looking for other work. (July 01, 2007)
The Bold and the Beautiful received a nomination in the category of Best Supporting Actor in a Television Drama Series for actor LORENZO LAMAS, who played Los Angeles fire-fighter Hector Ramirez for the 22nd Annual IMAGEN Awards. This marks the first IMAGEN Award nomination for Lamas and the fourth nod for The Bold and the Beautiful. Lamas was nominated for his performance during the calendar year of 2006 in which he portrayed Los Angeles fireman Hector Ramirez. Lamas joined The Bold and the Beautiful in 2004.
The IMAGEN Awards are put on by the IMAGEN Foundation, a non-profit organization whose dedication is to increase Latino representation within the entertainment industry. The IMAGEN Awards honors and recognizes the positive portrayals of Latinos and Latino culture in film and television, and celebrates the exemplary achievements of Latino talent in the entertainment industry.
The 22nd Annual IMAGEN Awards Gala will be held on Saturday, July 28 at Walt Disney Concert Hall. For more information on the Imagen Awards and for a full list of nominees, visit: www.imagen.org/awards. (July 01, 2007)
As reported last week, former Young & Restless head writer KAY ALDEN has joined B&B as an associate head writer. Alden tells Soap Opera Digest that she called up Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell and asked for a job when her 6 month consulting agreement with ABC wrapped up, since she felt like she didn't fit in at ABC. She admits that she tried to look at things though a "Bill Bell kind of lens" while consulting for the ABC soaps, but stories were told in a different manner over there, so she and the ABC brass agreed to part ways. As for her return to another soap created by her mentor, the late Y&R and B&B co-creator William J. Bell, Alden says, "I believe [Bill Bell] is smiling down on this deal, because [he] would've wanted me to stay with his team." (June 17, 2007)
KAY ALDEN, former head writer for THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS, has joined the B&B writing staff as co-head writer, alongside Executive Producer/Head Writer Bradley Bell. Alden has a long history with the Bell family, having been hired by B&B and Y&R co-creator William J. Bell to work on Y&R as a writer in 1974. She eventually became Bell's co-head writer on Y&R and was named as the show's head writer when Bell stepped down in 1998. She shared the head writing spot at Y&R with Jack Smith starting in 2002. Alden remained with Y&R until 2006, when after a short term as co-head writer under new head writer Lynn Marie Latham, she was let go. Alden most recently was consulting for some of the ABC soaps. (June 10, 2007)
As was hinted when Constantine Maroulis was first cast as Constantine, another AMERICAN IDOL finalist might make a guest appearance on B&B. (June 03, 2007)
DARCY ROSE BYRNES, who recently made her first B&B appearance as Ashley's daughter Abby Carlton, will pay a visit to her old home of Genoa City when she appears on THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS on Wednesday June 6 and Thursday June 7. (May 27, 2007)
B&B is casting a role for a female character connected with CONSTANTINE, Soap Opera Digest reports. The character will either be an ex-girlfriend or an overzealous fan. There is no word as to whether the role is contract or recurring. (May 27, 2007)
B&B has confirmed the first airdate for LAURALEE BELL as Christine Blair; the actress begins her limited run on the show on June 12. (May 20, 2007)
CBS Soaps in Depth reports that B&B is looking to fill two contract roles. The show is looking for thirtysomething actors with strong credits to play a handsome doctor, and they are also casting the role of a beautiful model in her twenties who is an intellectual, but with a potential dark side. (May 13, 2007)
UPDATED: TV GUIDE CANADA first confirmed insider reports that LAURALEE BELL would be bringing her Y&R character of Christine Blair to B&B (see below). The online magazine revealed that Bell hinted at the news when she appeared at the red carpet bash celebrating B&B's 20th anniversary in March. But it was the American TV Guide magazine that broke the news as to exactly who the Genoa City legal eagle would be defending in mid June, in Michael Logan's most recent "The Logan Report" column. Check out the "Spoilers and Rumors" section of B&B Bulletins to find out why Chris is coming to L.A. (May 13, 2007)
Soap vets KEVIN DOBSON and DEBBI MORGAN bring Judge Devin Owens and prosecutor Jennifer Tartaro back to B&B for the trial around Shane's murder. The actors first appeared last fall as the courtroom characters, both of whom are named after real people connected to B&B, when Taylor was tried for killing Darla. Morgan appears May 18; she and Dobson both appear May 23, 24, 25 and 29. (May 13, 2007)
According to a report in the May 08 issue of Soap Opera Weekly, numerous sources state that LAURALEE BELL is joining the cast of The Bold & The Beautiful. Insiders are speculating that Bell, who is the daughter of B&B co-creators Lee Phillip Bell and the late William Bell and the sister of B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell, will bring her YOUNG & RESTLESS character of Christine Blair to L.A. to play a major role in the trial tied to Shane's death. The magazine asked a rep for the actress to confirm, but the rep replied, "No comment."
In a related story in the magazine, sources suggest that Bradley Bell's decision to bring a second Y&R character to B&B - Eileen Davidson's Ashley Abbott came over to B&B at the beginning of the year - isn't sitting well at SONY, which co-owns Y&R with the Bells but has no stake or control in B&B. An insider claims that SONY was so aggravated when Bell hired Davidson that they ordered Y&R to kill off Drucilla Winters when Dru's portrayer, Victoria Rowell, chose to leave Y&R to insure that B&B could not snatch her up. (Rowell hinted in exit interviews that she might be interested in working at B&B). Reps for SONY and Y&R would not comment on this. (April 29, 2007)
Soap Opera Digest reports that a character from THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS may briefly cross over to B&B, although the character would would be crossing over was not named. SOD's sources state that the character might be Jack Abbott, since his sister Ashley has now taken up residence in L.A. Jack has crossed over with B&B before, in the 1998-99 story where Brooke sought a Jabot tie in with the "Brooke's Bedroom" launch, and his portrayer, Peter Bergman, has stated that he'd like to visit his younger sister in her new home "across the hall" (Y&R's soundstage is across the hall from B&B's). It's also possible that this might be referring to the possible arrival of Y&R attorney Christine Blair in L.A. (see item above). (April 29, 2007)
ALUMNA ALERT: In addition to her appearing as her B&B character of Amber on The Young & The Restless, ADRIENNE FRANTZ is busy with the release of her CD, called ANOMALY. Frantz is pleased with how the CD sounds and with its packaging, and she's planning an international tour to promote the CD that will start in Australia, probably at the end of May. But don't look for Amber to disappear from the Genoa City canvas where (has been mentioned on B&B) she recently schemed her way into a marriage to Australian bartender Ethan "Cane" Ashby. Cane has turned out to be the long lost son of Ashley Abbott's former stepmother Jill Abbott and the grandson of longtime friend to B&B's Douglas family Katherine Chancellor, so Frantz hopes to go back and forth while touring to tape episodes of Y&R and continue that story. ANOMALY can be purchased as a digital download or as a CD/DVD package from the music store at wrongrecords.net. (April 29, 2007)
About 10 years ago, B&B introduced a new police detective to investigate the Grant Chambers shooting, after years of Lt. Burke keeping the peace in L.A. So it's fitting that the return of elements from Grant's shooting in the current story of Shane's death would have Lieutenant Brad Baker, played by Dan Martin, again on the case. But this time, Lt. Baker has some help, as DEAN COCHRAN joins the cast of B&B in the recurring role of Detective Troy Scott. Cochran, who appeared on the SoapNet show I WANT TO BE A SOAP STAR, tells TV Guide Online that he'll be right by Baker's side as they investigate Shane's death. The actor is no stranger to the CBS Television Studio complex where B&B tapes, since his wife Brandi Sherwood is one of "Barker's Beauties" on THE PRICE IS RIGHT, which tapes next door to B&B. His manager Michael Bruno (who was one of the judges on SOAP STAR) helped him land the role by putting in a call to B&B casting director Christy Dooley when the role came up, and the rest is history. Look for Cochran to debut in the recurring role on April 30. (April 29, 2007)
WINSOR HARMON, who became the third actor to play Thorne on B&B in 1996, has signed a new contract with the show. "We just signed a new deal with Winsor, so he's not going anywhere," B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell told Soap Opera Digest. (April 22, 2007)
DAX GRIFFIN, whose character Shane met his tragic demise on the episode that aired on April 19 in the US, wasn't completely surprised to learn that his character was being killed off. The actor tells Soap Opera Digest that he saw the handwriting on the wall once Shane went MIA after Taylor's trial ended. Griffin tells the magazine, "I never really got comfortable with the show, even though I signed a lengthy contract. I was scratching my head, but I don't think anyone had the foggiest notion of who Shane was." But while the actor found Shane's death scenes a bit dark and morbid, he was flattered that B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell felt he could handle the heavy material. "Brad was going for shock value and something provocative and I think he definitely got all the ingredients," Griffin remarks. (April 22, 2007)
B&B viewers who were expecting the climax to a showdown between Shane and Ridge on April 18 were probably surprised to view a rerun of B&B's 5000th episode instead. Why the switch? CBS Soaps In Depth reports that B&B replaced its originally scheduled episode with the rerun out of respect for the tragedy at Virginia Tech that occurred on April 16.
Cindy Marshall, director of CBS media relations, told SID that the episode, in which a shooting with a handgun featured heavily, was postponed for a day so that scenes which might be considered inappropriate in the aftermath of the mass killing in Virginia could be omitted. "Out of sensitivity to Monday's events, we are editing some scenes in the episode," Marshall explained, adding that the edited episode would be aired on Thursday.
In addition to the editing, the edited episode included a note explaining that the episode was recorded before the tragic events at Virginia Tech. (April 22, 2007)
She's been mentioned several times since the arrival of her mom, Ashley Abbott, in L.A. But other than a photo, B&B viewers have yet to get a glimpse of Ashley's daughter Abby Carlton on screen. But that's soon going to change, as Young Artist Award winning actress DARCY ROSE BYRNES makes her first B&B appearance as Abby on May 10. Byrnes took over the role of Abby (which had previously been played by Rachel and Amanda Pace, now B&B's Hope) in late 2003 and played the part until Abby left Genoa City with Ashley in January 2007. (April 22, 2007)
DAX GRIFFIN returned as Shane on April 13, but don't look for the drifter to be around long. Shane exits B&B the week of April 16 in dramatic fashion.
With buzz that Massimo might return to B&B to restore his shattered family, JOSEPH MASCOLO tells Soap Opera Digest that "the reason I left in the first place is because of how Massimo was being written. He wasn't this powerful guy anymore. I'm certainly open to coming back, but it'll have to be for the right story."
TV GUIDE reports that B&B is about to get "IDOL-ized" as CONSTANTINE MAROULIS, who was a top 10 finalist during American Idol's fourth season, is about to join the B&B cast. In a summer music story that B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell describes as inspired by the TV series ENTOURAGE, Maroulis will play a fictionalized version of himself who becomes fascinated with online gossip about media princess Phoebe Forrester and wants to be her music producer. "I will be writing it differently, with a reality and fictional focus told in real time," Bell explains, with the fictional Maroulis loving Phoebe's face, her voice and her whole package as a way for him to make money. Also look for a triangle to develop between Maroulis, Phoebe and Rick.
It's been reported that Maroulis will be on B&B for 13 weeks. And Bell also teases, "Constantine isn’t the only Idol we'll bring to the show this summer." Stay tuned for more on that cryptic comment.
DEAN COCHRAN from season three of SOAPNET's "I Wanna Be a Soap Star" is making his daytime television debut on "The Bold and the Beautiful." The actor, who got "killed off" (i.e. eliminated) during the SoapNet competition, will be playing a detective on the CBS drama for at least 8 episodes. He began taping on March 26, so he should first appear sometime in April.
Check out CBS.Com's coverage of the red carpet celebration of B&B's 20th anniversary by clicking here. And check out TV Guide Canada's coverage by clicking here.
On March 23, 1987, THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL premiered on the CBS Television Network. Set in the glamorous world of the Los Angeles fashion industry, the series marks its 20th anniversary on March 23, 2007, and has garnered critical accolades with over 35 Daytime Emmy Awards and worldwide acclaim.
In honor of B&B's 20th Anniversary, a gala event will take place in Beverly Hills on Saturday, March 24. The party will shut down a block of Rodeo Drive and line up a red carpet, leading up to the a dinner bash for everyone who has ever been associated with the 30-minute serial.
You can read about B&B's 20th Anniversary at the following links:
The show will air scenes filmed on location in Sydney, Australia beginning with the anniversary show. (March 20, 2007)
Daytime television pioneer and award-winning broadcast journalist LEE PHILLIP BELL will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS).
Bell is the co-creator, with her late husband William J. Bell, of CBS's highly rated daytime dramas "The Young and the Restless" and "The Bold and the Beautiful." She was also a long-term story consultant for both shows and, as an Emmy-award winning broadcast journalist, her lifelong exploration into issues of social concern has woven its way into many daytime storylines.
She was the host of "The Lee Phillip Show," broadcast on WBBM-TV Chicago, from 1952 - 1986. Bell is widely considered a pioneer in the evolution of the afternoon talk show format, interviewing well-known politicians, film and television stars and athletes, and was also a trailblazer in the exploration of timely social issues.
Additionally, she has served as producer and narrator on numerous award-winning specials and documentaries on subjects such as foster children, rape, children and divorce, and babies born to women in prison.
Bell has been honored with scores of awards over the course of her career. She received the 1993 Broadcaster of the Year Award from the American Women in Radio and Television, and the 1993 Director's Choice Award from the National Women's Economic Alliance Foundation. She was honored with 16 local Emmy Awards in Chicago and an Emmy Award in 1980 for Community Service. In 1973, she received an Emmy as well as the coveted Alfred I. Dupont-Columbia University Award for producing the special, "The Rape of Paulette," the first televised program dealing with the subject. In 1975, the Chicago chapter of NATAS bestowed upon her the esteemed Governor's Award. In 1996, Lee Phillip Bell and Bill Bell were both honored with the Striving for Excellence Award by the Minorities in Broadcasting Training Program.
Bill Bell received the Lifetime Achievement Award from NATAS in 1992, which makes the Bells the only married couple to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award individually from NATAS, although in separate years, in the history of television. (March 20, 2007)
KEN HANES retturns to B&B as security man Mike Guthrie, Sheila's former cohort in crime. According to TV Guide magazine, Hanes - who last aired in 1998 when Kimberlin Brown (Sheila) left the show - has been asked back to the show for a shocking plot twist in April. Viewers will recall that in order to make sure that Eric didn't reunite with Brooke, Sheila tampered with Bridget's paternity test to ensure that Ridge turned out to be the father instead of Eric. During the tampering she was interrupted by security guard Mike and the tubes were mixed up. Mike later helped Sheila with a number of her other crimes, as well. Hanes, executive producer-writer of Court TV's first original script series, Til Death Do Us Part, tells TV Guide with glee: "They have something pretty horrific for me to do." (March 11, 2007)
In an interview with TV GUIDE ONLINE, B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell states that reports that WILLIAM deVRY (Storm) and DAX GRIFFIN (Shane) have been fired are not true. While he confirms that the actors have been dropped to recurring status and taken off contract, he reveals that Storm is still appearing in scripts he is presently writing, and he also has a story in mind for Shane when the timing is right.
Bell also reveals that he is not going to kill Sally Spectra, played by the late, great DARLENE CONLEY, at the present time. He states, "For the time being, Sally is still with us. She is traveling the world and having a ball. I think that Sally will live forever. I haven't made a final decision, but for now, Sally is going from one charming, gorgeous hunk to another and living a dream life." (February 18, 2007)
According to reports, WILLIAM deVRY (Storm) and DAX GRIFFIN (Shane) have been dropped from contract status on B&B. A rep for the show says the cuts are storyline dictated, but a backstage insider tells Soap Opera Digest that the moves translate to "fired, plain and simple." Griffin debuted last summer as the homeless drifter who scared Phoebe the night Darla died; viewers later learned that he witnessed Darla's accidental death as he first wanted to blackmail Taylor, but he later became enamored and even obsessed with Phoebe. Shane has been MIA since December but reappaered last week, although Phoebe's feelings for Shane seem to have cooled. DeVry debuted in October when Ridge called Storm to L.A. to defend Taylor. More recently, he has had minimal scenes as Nick's lawyer/aide in trying to crush the Forresters. There were hints and rumors that Storm might have been paired with Felicia, especially after Antonio Sabato Jr. left the show as Dante, but nothing ever materialized.
In addition, the backstage sources also tell SOD that LORENZO LAMAS's contract as Hector is up in February and will likely not be renewed. Hector has been off-screen since Taylor was acquitted, so his possible departure has been a source of speculation for months.
As to why B&B might be cleaning house in the casting department, a setside source speculates to SOD that cuts needed to be made to bring on Eileen Davidson, who is bringing her Y&R character of Ashley to B&B this month (see below). (February 11, 2007)
B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell has announced which cast members will be traveling to Australia from February 25th to March 2nd, 2007 to tape scenes from The Bold and the Beautiful in Sydney, Australia. Making the trip will be Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke Logan), Ronn Moss (Ridge Forrester), MacKenzie Mauzy (Phoebe Forrester) and Kyle Lowder (Rick Forrester).
The exterior scenes shot in Australia will begin being broadcast in episodes on CBS on March 23rd, which is the date of the first broadcast of the series 20 years ago, in 1987. (February 11, 2007)
Soap Opera Digest reports that there are talks to have additional appearances by MICK CAIN as CJ on a recurring basis. Cain will reprise his role for one episode on February 19, which was taped prior to the death of his on-screen mother, Darlene Conley (Sally). But with Sally's fate still not revealed in the story, there may be a need for Cain to come back once this plot point is addressed. (February 11, 2007)
EILEEN DAVIDSON has signed a 3-year contract to play her Y&R character, Ashley Abbott, on The Bold and the Beautiful. B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell approached the actress, who was let go from Y&R in December and last aired in January, to reprise the character on B&B. Davidson says it was a done deal the same day her last episode of Y&R aired. The actress also addresses rumors of a possible return to DAYS OF OUR LIVES and states that DAYS never called her about reprising the role of Susan.
When last seen on Y&R, Ashley packed her bags and moved with her daughter Abby to Hong Kong, accepting a position to work with Jabot's parent company House of Kim on clearing Jabot's excess inventory. When she arrives on B&B, Ashley heads to L.A. to help Eric Forrester launch a new fragrance.
"I feel great about the story. Eric Forrester is launching a new fragrance, so they're bringing Ashley in to help with that, which is perfectly logical. It works out great because on Y&R a couple of months ago, we had been talking about the Forresters," previews Davidson.
"Eileen is an extraordinary actress with an unlimited range of talent," B&B chief Bradley Bell said in his announcement. "It is my pleasure to welcome her to B&B."
Look for Ashley to appear on-screen on March 09. (updated February 04, 2007)
Internationally renowned daytime drama
actress DARLENE CONLEY, who played the vividly colored, comedic and tough
dame with a heart of gold, Sally Spectra on The Bold and the Beautiful,
died on January 14, 2007 from cancer.
“Darlene understood better than anyone that each moment of airtime was
precious”, said Bradley P. Bell, Executive Producer and Head Writer of The
Bold and the Beautiful. “She constantly entertained us with every move,
every breath, every inflection of her voice. Whether she was the villain,
the damsel, the sexpot, or the comedienne, Darlene was brilliant. An
extraordinary actress of film, radio, stage and television, my family had
the privilege and honor of Darlene gracing our shows for three decades.
She was truly one-of-a-kind. We will miss her beyond measure.”
Born in Chicago, Illinois on July 18, 1934, of Irish-German heritage, she
was discovered at age 15 by legendary Broadway impresario Jed Harris who
cast her as the Irish maid in a touring production of the 19th century
melodrama The Heiress, which starred Basil Rathbone. After graduating
high school, she toured the country with classical theater companies
before appearing in Shakespearean roles on Broadway with the Helen Hayes
Repertory Theater. She later appeared in a Broadway revival of the Night
of the Iguana, with Richard Chamberlain, and in David Merrick’s musical
The Baker’s Wife. Her Los Angeles theater credits included Cyrano de
Bergerac and Night of the Iguana (both with Chamberlain), The Time of the
Cuckoo with Jean Stapleton and Ring Around the Moon with Michael York.
A varied film career followed, starting with her being cast in Alfred
Hitchcock's "The Birds."
Daytime television became home to Conley, who once said “It (daytime) is
really the best medium today for women of a certain age to do something
really flashy; it’s where what we do well as actresses matters.” Conley
portrayed Edith Baker on Days of Our Lives, Louie on Capitol and Trixie
Monahan on General Hospital before being given the role of the nefarious
Rose de Ville, by the late William J. Bell, on The Young and Restless.
When Bell co-created The Bold and the Beautiful with his wife Lee
Phillip-Bell, he envisioned a special role for Conley, the role of Sally
Spectra. Conley showcased her dramatic range and abilities with the
character, and over the years has portrayed an exotic repertoire of
offbeat flamboyant characters within the role. As Sally, Conley was a
master of disguises including Mae West, a German spy, an Italian gigolo, a
nun, and even a rendition of another B&B character, Massimo Marone.
For her portrayal of Sally Spectra on The Bold and the Beautiful, Conley
was nominated for two Daytime Emmy Awards and six Soap Opera Digest
Awards.
Additionally, Conley has the distinction of being the only daytime star to
be chosen by the world famous Madame Tussaud’s to have her character,
Sally Spectra, displayed in their gallery of wax figures, in both
Amsterdam and Las Vegas.
Conley is survived by her son, Raymond Woodson, ex-husband Bill Woodson,
sisters Carol Fontana and Sharon Mylan, a host of nieces and nephews, her
long time friend and caretaker, Eva Hansen and her manager of 24 years,
Sandra Siegal.
MICK CAIN returns to The Bold and the Beautiful as "C.J. Garrison" on 2/19 for a limited run. Watch for him in scenes with MacKenzie Mauzy (Phoebe Forrester) and Kyle Lowder (Rick Forrester) in the Insomnia Cafe.
B&B ANNOUNCES REMOTE LOCATION SHOOT IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: The Bold and the Beautiful will shoot scenes from a handful of episodes in Sydney, Australia from February 24-March 2, 2007, Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley P. Bell announced on January 23. The scenes will be broadcast starting with episode 5023, which will air on the CBS Television Network the week of March 23rd, the anniversary date in 1987 that the series debuted on CBS 20 years ago.
Pending final scripts, it will be announced at a later date which actors will be involved in the scenes taped in Australia, but Bell is certain of this: "The scenes will be very romantic, enhanced by the immense beauty of Sydney Harbor."
The Bold and the Beautiful producing and directing team traveling to Australia for the remote includes Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley P. Bell, Supervising Producer Rhonda Friedman and Director Deveney Kelly.
In addition to these special Sydney episodes which celebrate The Bold and the Beautiful's 20th Anniversary, the cast and crew will be invited to celebrate the milestone with a private party on Saturday, March 24th, in an as yet undisclosed location in Beverly Hills. Press will be invited to cover the red carpet arrivals.
JACK WAGNER (Nick) will be giving a FREE concert at The Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT on July 6 and July 7, 2007. For more information call 1-888-226-7711 or go to www.mohegansun.com.
Why did B&B Executive Producer and Head Writer Bradley Bell choose to recast the role of Rick Forrester? Justin Torkildsen has appeared on a recurring basis for some time as Rick, appearing as recently as November. So why is KYLE LOWDER playing Rick starting January 25? Bell tells Soap Opera Digest, "Sometimes, a fresh start is good. This is where we're telling a whole new story, so it's nice to have a clean slate." Bell felt Justin was brilliant during his stints as Rick, but he thinks Kyle will be great as well. "It's going to give us a whole different flavor. I like to keep my families intact, but I've been working with these people for so long, we have to keep something fresh. So changing the faces once in a while is an important part of the game," Bell explains.
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL was the recipient of the International TV Audience award in the category of “Telenovela/Soap Opera” at the 46th Monte-Carlo Television Festival Golden Nymph Awards Ceremony on July 1, 2006 at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, confirming that it is the most watched daily drama series in the world.
The International TV Audience Awards are determined by the sum of ratings across five continents and 51 countries as measured by Médiamétrie and Eurodata TV Worldwide. The win signifies that The Bold and the Beautiful delivered higher ratings worldwide in 2005 than any other daily drama series, including the two other nominees in the same category, the Spanish-language telenovelas, Rubi (Mexico), and Pasión de Gavilanes (Colombia/USA).
The award was accepted by Executive Writer and Head Producer Bradley P. Bell, who travelled to Monaco along with cast members Ashley Jones (Bridget) and Antonio Sabáto, Jr. (Dante) to participate in the festival.
Congratulations to B&B's winners in the 2006 Daytime Emmy Awards:
- Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design For A Drama Series: BIRGIT MULLER, COSTUME DESIGNER
- Outstanding Achievement in Lighting Direction For A Drama Series: RUDY HUNTER AND LAURI MOORMAN, LIGHTING DIRECTORS (Tied with AS THE WORLD TURNS).
Congratulations to JACK WAGNER (Nick); the actor was the recipient of the Rose d'Or for the category of
"Best Soap Actor" during the prestigious 46th Rose d'Or Television Festival Awards Ceremony at the Lucerne Culture and Congress Center in Lucerne, Switzerland on April 30. The Bold and the Beautiful was also nominated for a Rose d'Or in March for the second consecutive year in the category of "Best Soap."
Fans of the music of RONN MOSS (Ridge) might be pleased to know that Ronn's new CD, UNCOVERED, is now available on iTunes, the popular music download site run by Apple Computers.
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If you have iTunes installed,
