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One Life to Live's Robert Gorrie Talks On His First Season As Matthew Buchanan!

Courtesy/TOLN

Photo Credit: Sue Coflin/Max Studios

One Life to Live just wrapped up its first season online.  At the epicenter of season one, seemed to be the perils and love life of the character of Matthew Buchanan played by Robert Gorrie.

In On-Air On-Soaps’ final interview for season one, we chatted with Rob to talk all things Matthew, including: who is truly the gal that Matt should be with … Dani, Destiny, or Michelle?  What he thought about all the ups and downs the production faced, and the changes in the amount of episodes delivered to the fans each week?  And, what was it like being front and center in the show surrounded by such beloved veteran performers? … and much, much more.

We think you will find Rob’s answers candid, refreshing, and sincere as we take a look back, and take a look forward as to what might befall Matthew in season two.  When we left him; his Uncle Clint was at the clutches of Allison Perkins in the psyche ward, Matthew’s friend, Jeffrey is not all he appears to be, and is now out on a date with Destiny!  And, Matthew’s date at the Man of the Year, Michelle, is turning out to be a manipulating bitch!  So here’s what Rob had to say, about Matthew’s expansive and exhilarating first season of story!

So, as fans have just watched the season finale, do you think deep down Matthew is feeling the pull and love for Destiny?  Were you and Laura Harrier (Destiny) intentionally playing that into your scenes?

Courtesy/TOLN

ROB:  Absolutely, there is a love there for Destiny, 100%.   I have not spoken to Laura about specific choices that she should make in scenes, but I have started to make those choices.  I feel like that is where Matthew’s next logical step should be.  I think he should be fully learning that becoming a man means fulfilling your responsibilities, and facing your emotions.  This whole thing with her falling for Jeffrey, and most recently the incident where Drew got sick, I think it started to wake him up to, “This is his family!”

When One Life to Live returned in its new incarnation online, you debuted as a recast and a more mature Matthew.  At the beginning of the season, he was a jackass!  But for me, and for the fans, we could never exactly figure out why he was acting out this way!  How do you feel about that?

ROB:  I definitely think there was a harder edge to Matthew when the show first launched, and they did not really explore it.  I listened to your episode of TOLN Soaps Live with Jennifer Pepperman (EP, OLTL) the other day.  I think she hit the nail on the head that I don’t think they took the time to really explain where Matthew was at, from the beginning of the show.  I sort of went with the way the writing was.  I definitely felt he has this anger towards Destiny, but I am not even sure if Matthew knew why he was angry with her.  It was misplaced; his anger was with his folks, and a bit on himself, and he unfairly projected that on Destiny.

Now at the end of season one, Matthew is with Michelle (Amber Skye Noyes)!  He accepted her awfully quickly after all the crap she put him through!  How many women can this guy have in his orbit? 

Courtesy/TOLN

ROB: Can the guy just pick somebody?  I hear what you’re saying! It’s definitely a challenge for me as an actor.  It’s hard to divvy up all these feelings for all these different girls! (Laughs) I don’t think they know where they are going with Matthew right now, which is why I have taken it upon myself to start to play up his feelings for Destiny.  I think it’s the next logical progression, and I think he is uncovering those right now.

Do you see the endgame for Matthew truly being Dani (Kelley Missal)?

ROB: Wouldn’t that be a twist?  I have not read any of the scripts they have planned for season two, but I can’t wait, to be honest.

How is working with Kelley Missal?

ROB:  I enjoy working with Kelley, because she brings something new to every scene.  I feel she is one of the strongest actresses I have ever worked with.  She keeps it fun on set, and she is really good at her craft.  She brings a fiery energy to Dani that the show desperately needs.

You have had great scenes recently with Jerry verDorn (Clint)!  Especially, when Matthew tried to sober up Clint before the Man of the Year meltdown!

Courtesy/TOLN

ROB:  I enjoy those scenes because Jerry is a wonderful actor, and so generous.  He is very present in his scenes.  I learn a lot from him, and how he carries himself around on set.  I definitely think the work he has been doing now should be considered for an Emmy nomination.  He is fantastic!  What I like a lot about his relationship with Matthew, and where it is right now, is Clint has always been the person to slap Matthew in the face and say, “Wake up, kid!”   And now Matthew can return the favor and say, “Uncle Clint! You’ve got to get yourself put together here!”  I think Matthew has two fathers on the show, Bo and Clint.  And, I am sure he is so upset knowing Clint ended up in the Psyche Ward!

And, now Matthew is in the dark that his roommate and best friend, Jeffrey King (Corbin Bleu) is really part of the cult!  Jeffrey is a very bad man!  What does Matthew think of Jeffrey at this point?

ROB: Right now, Matthew is in the dark.  There is some tension there, because Jeffrey is starting to date Destiny.  How Matthew responds to Jeffrey is dependent on his plans for Llanview, and what he has in store for the people he seemed to have lied to this whole season.  I am sure Matthew will stand up for his friends and family, first and foremost.

Matthew has really been the lead on the show in season one of One Life to Live.  He has certainly had more airtime than most of the characters, and a lot of the action centered on Matthew.  Did you feel a huge weight on your shoulder, knowing you were carrying so much story on a show that was beloved for its veteran performers?

CourtesyFacebook

ROB:  I have been on a lot, and other people have said that to me, as well.  I have read some articles that have said that, and it definitely feels like it when you watch the show.  I have worked almost every day.  I had no idea how it would be showcased in the final product, though.  But I wouldn’t call it a weight.  I enjoy working, and Matthew is genuinely connected to all of these different story points. It makes sense he is there, and I enjoy it.  No complaints here.

Did you originally think this Michelle story (that came out of the blue) was going to turn into a “catfishing” storyline for Matthew, and the cautionary tale of it?

ROB:  Initially yes, and then it wasn’t until a couple of weeks after we started playing it, that I spoke to our casting director, Alison Goodman, and she is like, “We casted Michelle!”  And I am like, “She’s real?  She’s a real person?” (Laughs)  So I was excited. I thought it was a cool little twist, and everybody thought it was headed towards a “cat-fishing” storyline, and then she ended up being real.  And, we don’t know what her true intention is, either!  I can say I did peek ahead for what they have planned for her, and I think the fans will be really excited.

Your on-screen parents are played by Daytime Emmy winners, Hillary B. Smith (Nora) and Bob Woods (Bo).  In season one there were just not enough scenes between the three of you.  I hope for more of them!

Photo Credit: Chapman Baehler

ROB:  I do, too.  I hope we get to see more of that in season two.  I guess Jen Pepperman also alluded to that in your TOLN Soaps Live broadcast.

There was a huge learning curve for many soap fans trying to get adjusted to One Life being online and watching on Hulu.  The goal was to bring in the younger generation, who understood that process, and yet retain the older and steadfast viewer.  There were lots of twists and turns with the way episodes were being posted, and behind the scenes shifts.  How was the cast affected by all the changes?

ROB:  Of course, we were concerned and affected by all the changes, but I also think we were all a little more understanding than some of the fans. We understood what we were up against.  We knew going in there was going to be some trial and errors, and bumps and bruises.  It’s a whole new undertaking, and a new production company for this show. There were a lot of new people on board, and at the end of the day we were all just happy to be on the show, and to be able to tell these stories.  Once all the kinks are ironed out, we are going to have a tremendous show.  I think the direction the show is headed now is great, and I can’t wait to get back to work.

Photo Credit: Chapman Baehler

So up on your Twitter account, who do the fans want to see Matthew with the most, Michelle, Dani or Destiny?

ROB:  Not too many people want him with Michelle (laughs), but a lot of people are torn between Dani and Destiny.  The majority would say that Matthew needs to be back with Destiny.

Many have felt that Laura Harrier has really come into her own in the role of Destiny, as she was a very new actress with not too much previous experience.  Since you have watched Laura work, what can you say about her progression?

ROB:  I think she has grown so much in her role, and she brings a unique innocence that Destiny has always had, and she has that in her look, and the way she speaks.  Laura is a sweet girl.  I think she is learning by watching by everybody.  I am proud of her.  I think she is great.

Did you watch soaps growing up, and think that perhaps this was a medium you always wanted to act in?  You previously were on As the World Turns before One Life to Live.

ROB: When I was growing up I distinctly remember my grandparents and my mom watching Days of our Lives with John and Marlena, and the whole devil possession storyline.  It captivated me in a really weird way.  So, I would say soaps have always been in the background of my life and on the TV.  I never thought I would have a prominent role like I have now on a soap.  I would never have thought of that in a million years!

Courtesy/TOLN

How do you feel now when people call you “heartthrob” or “sexy”?

ROB: Oh, I defiantly express my appreciation, and thank who ever says that.  I am not one to avoid a compliment and I will take it.  It is something I am getting used to, as it never really happened to me growing up.  I never thought of myself that way! (Laughs)

One Life to Live faced so many obstacles to get this show back up and mounted.  What can you say you learned, in general terms, from the season one experience of being part of this show?

ROB:  I think honestly, the one big takeaway is, I had to appreciate every day I get to be on set.  I remember when we learned about the labor strike and we were working that day.  I remember walking off the soundstage.  I had a moment to myself looking around wishing I had taken more time to appreciate each say playing Matthew, as we did not know for sure if we were coming back.  I have taken away being more mindful that this is an amazing privilege and opportunity.  I enjoy playing Matthew, and I want to keep playing him.

So OLTL fans, what did you think of Rob Gorrie’s performance as Matthew in season one?  Do you feel that Matthew’s attitude at the beginning of the series wasn’t properly explained?  Who do you want to see Matthew end up with season two?  Do you think Rob was an excellent choice for the SORAS’d Matthew B.?  Share your thoughts on our final One Life interview of the season below!

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I think he is a good recast & I thought he handled the role very well but in all honesty I need a break from seeing Matthew on every show. Hope that changes if there is a season two.

Rob has done a great job as Matthew. Like Jen P. said I wish we could have seen how Matt got to the place he was at in the first episode. I hope that he and Destiny are totally endgame.

I dont think its much of a stretch that Matthew was acting out a bit. Anyone who watched the last of OLTL on ABC would know the kid went through a lot. He killed a man, he was in a wheelchair, he was in a coma and almost died, he became a father without even knowing it, etc. No doubt he just wanted to be a normal kid and have fun and party. He really does look and act like a slightly older version of Eddie Alderson. I hope they focus in on where they want Matthew to go rather than so many directions at once. The Michelle story seems exrtraneous and kind of pointless to me, unless it is part of a bigger umbrella story. I personally like Matthew with Dani. Maybe they can have the chance they could have had before the Ford brothers invaded the show and took every available leading lady on the show.

I’m very pleased with Rob’s performance. He’s doing a great job as Matthew the man. I will always love Eddie Alderson because I watched him grow up and think he did a terrific job as Matthew grew. Since Eddie chose to go to LA, I think Rob is a great recast.

Rob is an excellent recast and a good actor. I’ve enjoyed his part in the rebooted OLTL and hope the hiatus will be very brief. Sure, I’d like to have 5 episodes a week but I’m very pleased with the two new installments we’ve been receiving weekly. I also like the 30-minute format and the swift action much better than prolonged 60-minute episodes with excessive padding. Rob has played Matthew well and we look forward to enjoying his work in the future!

I would think that Michelle is part of the bigger picture since Jeffrey was sent to befriend Matthew in London,and later introduced Matthew to Michelle via his facebook page.He led Matthew to her.

He was surprisingly really good as Matthew this first season–and maybe not so surprisingly super-sexy!

I’m not sure if we all knew that there was a chance the show would be canceled again because of the labor dispute…thought it was just another kink and another delay. interesting…

I have liked this guy from the beginning. Personally, once they made Matthew (Eddie Alderson) bratty he kind of got on my nerves…the character and the actor. I think Rob brings a fresh approach; he’s good-looking and has made the role his own. And on that note…I like the new Destiny as well. The original actress would never have seemed a fit with this version of Matthew. I think Laura’s beautiful but with an innocence that Rob alluded to.

As for Dani, I think they’d be a fun/romantic match as well.

Rob seems like a down-to-earth guy. Like him!

No explanation of Matthew needed.
From the first episode it felt like we found ourselves eavesdropping on the lives of our beloved characters, like their life went on without us for 16months, and we had to figure out what was happening.. I loved it.

Am looking forward to OLTL 2.0 season two and beyond.

(Otherwise I might have to drop HuluPlus)

The younger characters but especially Rob’s portrayal of Matthew has been a huge highlight- the biggest highlight for me- of Season 1. He just was Matthew from ep 1- and I really thought this would be a recast that would take significant time to adjust. I totally agree with Rob’s take on Matthew/Destiny & I hope that’s where the show is ultimately headed- the chemistry between the actors is palpable even when they’re in group scenes with Michelle & Jeffrey. He’s great opposite Kelley Missal too but they have more of a friends who have a great will they/won’t they vibe but are ultimately wrong for each other. His scenes with Clint have also been excellent. Looking forward to a lot more Matthew in Season 2!

It’s hard to be a recast, but Mr. Gorrie has done a fine job. He seems like a down to earth guy and I think he’s made the role his own. I look forward to seeing how Matthew’s story plays out next season.

I think PP did a very good job by recast Rob as Matthew along with Laura Hrrier as Destiny. I an’t wait for season 2 on what’s next for Matthew and Destiny, I hope thy finally be together and raise Drew together as a family.

News

Robin Strasser Meets Kristen Alderson’s Baby Kiera in a One Life to Live Reunion

For years, Robin Strasser (ex-Dorian) and Kristen Alderson (ex-Starr) have been the best of friends and the best of co-stars. On One Life to Live, Kristen was only six-years-old when she began her journey as Todd and Blair’s daughter and met the iconic Strasser.

Now in 2024, Kristen is a new mom to her baby girl, Kiera. Strasser, who lives in New York, along with her best friend, John, traveled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, just a few days ago to visit the Alderson family and spend the day with Kiera.

Taking to her Instagram a very happy Kristen shared, “Look at who came to visit today! Robin & her bestie John! Robin and I got all misty eyed when she met Kiera today!”

Photo: JPI

In a very touching part of her post, Alderson expressed, “Robin is such a special person in my life, it means so much to me that we’re as close as we are. She’s just the best❤️ A great day of laughs & a great brunch spread😍”

Robin added, “I’ve been smiling since I met her. I’m a big softie for babies, but what a doll Kiera is!” The Daytime Emmy-winning star, also shared, “I’m so grateful for my ongoing friendship with Kris and Kathy. Amazing women and loyal friends!”

What do you think about Kristen and Robin’s enduring friendship and recalling their time on One Life to Live? Comment below.

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General Hospital

Nancy Lee Grahn’s Star-Studded ALS Fundraiser Reveals “I’ll Be There” Video Featuring Soap Opera Notables

Talk about your impressive line-up! It’s a soap fans dream and for a great cause. General Hospital’s Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis Davis) is prepping her one-night only ALS fundraiser which will feature many of her friends and co-stars.

The benefit is set for May 4th in Glendale, California. Slated to participate are Genie Francis, Jane Elliot, Peter Bergman, Maurice Benard, Eileen Davidson, Thorsten Kaye, Michelle Stafford, Stephen Nichols, Rena Sofer, Jason Thompson, Kelly Monaco, Melissa Claire Egan, Maura West, Kristina Wagner, Gregory Harrison, Trevor St. John, Kate Mansi, Kirsten Storms, Cynthia Watros, and many others.

On Wednesday, Grahn took to her social media and released an “I’ll be there” video shout-out featuring, Monaco, Elliot, Bergman, Bernard, West, Harrison, St. John and more. In a touching and important moment in the new video, Michelle Strogny, who is battling ALS, is featured.

Photo: ABC

Previously, in speaking with Soap Opera Digest on the impetus of the event, Grahn recalled, “I was actually doing Zoom events during Covid and I met this woman that I just fell in love with, Michelle Strojny. At the time, Michelle had been living with ALS for four years. Now, it’s five years. She is a mom of a teenage son, she has the most wonderful husband, and she has been dealing with this [disease] for quite a while. And obviously, there isn’t a cure yet. It’s not survivable yet. But as she says, it’s not incurable. Nothing is; it’s underfunded. But anyway, I just really dug this woman. She is so grounded and filled with grace, and she spends all of her time working to raise money for the cause. We did a fundraiser for her last year and then I thought, ‘You know what? The soaps don’t ever get together to do something for charity.’ Collectively, we have this amazing community and we don’t collectively use it for a good cause, and I think it’s such an easy thing for us to do and we could potentially really make a difference.”

As GH viewers know, Gregory Harrison is playing the character of Gregory Chase, who is also battling ALS in a touching storyline that is currently playing out shedding a light on this disease.

For information on Nancy’s event, including the stars who are s scheduled to participate click here. To purchase tickets to the event click here.

Check out the video featuring Nancy’s friends and co-stars below.  Now let us know, your thought son the line-up for the benefit and helping raise awareness and funds for ALS research via the comment section.

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General Hospital

‘General Hospital’ Writer Shannon Peace Let Go, and Shares on Sprina: “One of My Only Regrets is to Not Have the Opportunity to Develop That ‘Ship’ Further”

As General Hospital’s new head writing team of Elizabeth Korte and Patrick Mulcahy gets off the ground and running, there are still changes a foot on the writing team.

Now comes word via breakdown writer Shannon Peace that she is no longer on contract with the long-running ABC soap heading into its 61st season. Peace shared a heartfelt message on her Instagram, thanking the fans, and the show for the opportunity and the importance of diversity in the writers room.

Peace began, “After almost 3 years on staff and 106 episodes penned, I am no longer on contract with General Hospital. Writing for this country’s longest running television serial drama has been an education of epic proportions; I will forever be grateful that I earned my WGA card on a daytime fixture that holds memories for so many.” (Peace pictured below with GH EP Frank Valentini and script writer, Charlotte Gibson from about ten months ago).

Photo: SPeaceIG

Shannon added “Even more importantly, as the sole Black breakdown writer (and only POC in the writers room) during my tenure, I pushed for vital interactions and discussions that prioritized inclusion, visibility, and representation”

The writer pointed to the example of vital interaction when in story, “Stella and Portia’s frank July 2022 conversation about the role race played in Esme’s framing of Trina is just one example of the impact I’m gratified to have had.”

Acknowledging former GH co-head writers was also part of Peace’s farewell expressing, “Appreciation to my former bosses, Chris Van Etten and Dan O’Connor – not only taking a chance on me, but for valuing my opinion and championing my voice.”

Courtesy/ABC

Many GH fans know that Peace was key to the development of the love story between Trina Robinson and Spencer Cassadine as played by Tabyana Ali and Nicholas Chavez. Shannon gave a special shout-out to ‘Sprina’ fans, “I also want to thank fans who were supportive of my work, especially the recognition of my love for ‘Sprina’. One of my only regrets is not having to develop that ‘ship’ further.”

She concludes her statement with,”In the aftermath of a historic writer’s strike that shed new light on the troubling ways writers are regarded in daytime, my sincere hope is that General Hospital recommits to valuing staff writer efforts and input, with a more intentional focus on diverse viewpoints — and thrives for another 60 years.”

Accompanying her post, Shannon added, “Thank you all for the love and support these last few years. I hope GH fans get all they hope for and more!”

So, what do you think about GH not renewing Shannon’s contract? Will there be more continued changes afoot? What do you think is the future of ‘Sprina’ anyway at this point as viewers wait to see if Nicholas Chavez officially returns to the show?  Comment below.

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