Days Of Our Lives
45th Daytime Emmys: Watch Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series Nominated Reels: Who Should Win?
Five of daytime’s most talented actors are in the running for the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series at this year’s 45th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards.
A few of them have taken home the gold before, but which gent will take home the prize on Sunday night, April 29th?
To help you figure out who may have the best chances to win, check out their nominated performances via the reels they submitted for the blue-ribbon round of competition.
Nominated are: Billy Miller (formerly Jason, now Drew, GH), Peter Bergman (Jack, Y&R). Michael Easton (Finn, GH), James Reynolds (Abe, DAYS), and John McCook (Eric, B&B).
Watch these powerhouse performances after the jump! Then let us know who you think should win come Emmy night via the comment section below!
Days Of Our Lives
DAYS OF OUR LIVES Preview: Lexie Emerges and Shocks Abe as the DiMera Family Gathers for The Reading of Stefano’s Will
Next week on all-new episodes of Days of Our Lives, finally it looks like Lexie Carver is fully resurrected when the character now played by Nikki Crawford stumbles into a DiMera family gathering, which is supposed to be for the reading of Stefano DiMera’s will.
In the Peacock video teaser, as EJ (Dan Feuerriegel) and company toast the Phoenix, the secret tunnel door swings open, and out stumbles out Lexie! Meanwhile, Dr, Rolf (Richard Wharton) realizes Lexie is gone and no longer in her bed. When Abe (James Reynolds) sees his beloved Lexie, he is absolutely stunned. But the question is, when Lexie speaks, is she the Lexie of old, or will her memory and brain be all scrambled eggs?
As longtime DAYS viewers know, the part of Lexie was portrayed for years by Renee Jones, who retired from acting after her run which lasted from 1993-2012. At the time of her departure, Lexie was killed-off with an inoperable brain tumor.

Courtesy/Peacock
Elsewhere, Kristen (Stacy Haiduk) is up to no good and now makes a play for Xander (Paul Telfer). but then tells him, “What I want now, is for you to kill him!” Who does she want killed? EJ? Johnny (Carson Boatman)? Or someone else?
Take a look at the official Days of Our Lives spoilers for the week of May 11-15 below.
Monday, May 11
Lexie crashes the reading of Stefano’s will.
Tony makes Gabi an unexpected offer.
Kristen sees Sophia.
EJ questions Cat.
Chad defends Leo.
Tuesday, May 12
Belle asks Marlena for advice.
Holly lashes out at Tate.
Brady and Sarah comfort each other.
Philip comes through for Gabi.
Ari opens up to Liam.
Wednesday, May 13
Steve pays Alex a visit.
EJ pulls a fast one on Gwen.
Marlena offers Paulina support.
Thursday, May 14
Johnny and Chanel lean on each other.
Jada moves Shawn into her place and opens the door for renewed romance.
Gabi presses Ari about her relationship with Liam.
Amy confronts Holly.
Friday, May 15
EJ wants to explore his past with Cat.
Kristen and Chad discuss life and death.
Javi opens up to Rafe.
Gwen plays hardball with Xander.
Check out the latest DAYS promo entitled, “Heartbreak Hotel” below.
Then, let us know, does this Lexie come back from the dead intrigue you, even though Nikki Crawford is taking on the role and not Renee Jones? Do you think she will be anywhere near the same personality she had before she “died’? Who does Kristen want killed now? Weigh-in via the comment section.
Breaking News
DAYS Lauren Koslow Temporarily Fills-In for Jess Walton as ‘The Young and the Restless’ Jill Abbott
In a ironic twist, Lauren Koslow, who currently plays Kate Roberts on Days of Our Lives is returning to The Young and the Restless to play Jill Abbott while temporarily filling in for Jess Walton. Koslow will appear for five episodes beginning on Thursday, June 25.
Koslow first appeared on The Young and the Restless back in 1984 in what was her first soap opera role when she was cast as Lindsey Wells. Now, she returns decades later subbing for Walton, who due to a scheduling conflict, was was unable to travel to Los Angeles when the storyline called for Jill. The Emmy-winning Walton has played the Jill since 1987 and went on recurring status with the show in 2012. Jess also left Los Angeles to reside in Oregon in 2011.
Making this all the richer was the original Jill played by Brenda Dickson, often shared scenes with Koslow’s Y&R character. Lauren played Lindsey Wells until 1986, before moving over to The Bold and the Beautiful as Margo Lynley. Koslow was B&B’s Margo from 1987–1992, and again in 2002. Then, in 1996, she was cast on Days of Our Lives as Kate Roberts, replacing Deborah Adair, and she has been in Salem ever since. But there’s still another another twist to this casting history. Y&R viewers recall Deborah Adair also played Jill, after Brenda Dickson left in 1980, and following a brief stint by Bond Gideon, before heading to DAYS to originate the role of Kate.

Photo: CBS
THE DAYS AND Y&R CONNECTION
As soap fans know, Days of Our Lives and The Young and the Restless are both part of Sony. Y&R is produced by Bell Dramatic Serial Company in association with Sony Pictures Television, while DAYS is owned by Corday Productions and distributed by Sony.
So, having Koslow visit The Young and the Restless to fill in for Jess Walton has nothing to do with her continued role of Kate on DAYS. In fact, a rep for the show shared that her upcoming appearance on Y&R, “does not affect her status with the show in any way.” Recently, Stacy Haiduk reprised her role of Patty Williams on Y&R, even though she is still being seen as Kristen DiMera on DAYS.
In a joint statement offered up to TV Insider, executive producer, Sally McDonald and head writer, Josh Griffith expressed, “We’re extremely grateful to Lauren Koslow for returning to her Y&R roots and temporarily stepping into the role of Jill. We want to extend our sincere thanks to Ken Corday (executive producer) and Noel Maxam (co-executive producer) at Days of Our Lives and Peacock. Their support embodies the collaborative spirit of the daytime television community.”
McDonald and Griffith clarified that Jess Walton is forever their Jill and shared, “Jess Walton is an enduring cornerstone of Y&R. We look forward to welcoming her back to Genoa City as her schedule permits and celebrating her extraordinary 40th anniversary as the iconic Jill Abbott.”
So, what do you think of Days of Our Lives Lauren Koslow stepping in for Jess Walton as Jill Abbott? Excited to see what she does in the role while filling in for the Jess? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
Days Of Our Lives
‘Days of Our Lives’ Alum Al Calderon Shares Parting Thoughts on ‘Brilliant Minds’ Following its Cancellation
Last week, NBC pulled the plug on the medical drama, Brilliant Minds, as the last 6 episodes of its second and final season will begin to air later this month. The series which saw its ratings plummet was taken off the schedule in February, with reports of it being on the bubble until finally the decision was handed down.
Al Calderon, who departed Days of our Lives in the role of Javi Hernandez in 2025 to join the primetime series as Nurse Nico Silva, was a part of the stellar cast that also featured One Life to Live alum, Teddy Sears (ex-Chad Bennett) and series star, Zachary Quinto.
On Brilliant Minds, Quinto plays neurology physician Oliver Wolf, who’s character and the series is inspired by the life and books of neurologist. Oliver Sacks. The series focuses on the medical mysteries of the mind, as Wolf a larger-than-life neurologist and his team of interns explore the last great frontier, the human mind, while grappling with their own relationships and mental health.

Photo: NBC
In a real-life twist, Days of our Lives announced Calderon’s successor, Jacob Martinez as the new Javi debuting this June on April 30. Come May 1, NBC canceled Brilliant Minds. Now, on Wednesday, May 6, Al Calderon took a moment to reflect on his experience at Bronx General Hospital, the backdrop of Brilliant Minds, via a post on his Instagram.
“Thank you Brilliant Minds” Calderon began. “What a life changing experience. Met forever friends. Learned from the absolute best. Was reminded that my voice mattered. Learned that it’s okay to believe in yourself. Felt like I was part of something. While our beautiful show has gone onto glory we’ve got 6 more incredible episodes to share with you starting May 27th.”
Al also added, “NBC and Warner Brothers TV, thank you for allowing me to be silly and quippy, Demane Davis, Michael Grassi, David Rapaport, Zachary Quinto, thank you for all of your encouragement and support.”
As his heartfelt post came to a close, Calderon explained why the experience on Brilliant Minds was life-changing: “I’ve been at this a long time and this show gave me hope for the future of my career. I owe it to these incredible individuals. Our crew. Our writers. Our editors. The whole shebang. I love you all endlessly.”
Taking to the comment threads were several of Al’s Brilliant Minds and DAYS former co-stars, and even his successor, Jacob Martinez jumped in and shared, “YOU are brilliant 💕”
What did you think of Al’s heartfelt message about his time on Brilliant Minds? Will you miss seeing him on DAYS and on the primetime series? Looking forward to seeing what he will do next? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
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IMO Billy Miller has the best reel am’s should win. He shows amazing range and captures my very favorite emotion – laughter through tears perfectly at the end.
I’m not sure if James Reynolds is on Days enough anymore to qualify as a “lead”, but he definitely deserves the Emmy for the Theo shooting storyline. Probably the most material he’s had to work with in years, and he knocked it out of the park.
Yes…he was really good there…
Hi, Jimmy,
Yes, James excelled in the scene ( Theo’s shooting and aftermath), but, I agree with Satan when he states that James has not been ‘around’ so much …..I do not think, though, that one reel , or one instance constitutes an Emmy.
James has not engaged enough for me.
Casey did it for me . But, everyone is so good; Peter B, Billy F, Billy M etc…. it becomes a challenge picking the best. They are all the best !!
I am really loving Dool….but, I find the dark turn Abigail’s storyline is taking more than a little disturbing.
Will she fall into bed with Stefan?…a true criminal he….taking advantage of an alter is a crime, as far as I am concerned.
The PTB should tread lightly on this delicate terrain—-it is NOT Abigal giving consent, but an alter. In the real world this would be rape, wouldn’t it? What message are ‘they’ sending?
I don’t like it……too melodramatic, Machiavellian and Sadistic for me.
I liked the idea of pursuing the storyline, Jimmy, but not at the risk of exploiting a personality with
DID.
James Reynolds is my favorite.
James and only James. I mean really!
I love Billy Miller, any one that knows me, knows I LOVE that guy. However this storyline killed the power of his skill for me. Billy can make lemonade out of lemons for sure but right now my vote goes to Peter Bergman as Jack Abbott. That man is really an excellent actor who can convey so much emotion on many levels. The rest of the nominees were good. In fact very good but most of the scenes they submitted were overacting. And that makes me uptight. Be sincere in your skill. Peter Bergman is an amazing actor who has had 2 years of solid excellence even when the stories were a little tilted. He deserves some serious recognition for it. If Peter does not win, then Billy Miller deserves it. Like I said, Billy has massive ability. He has won the Emmy 2 times previously and deserved it for those submissions but this time, the story made me forget his strength as an actor. Applause to all the nominees. Kudos to Billy Miller for remaining excellent even in a bad story. Kudos to Peter Bergman for your greatness. I hope you take that well deserved prize home.
Nicely stated. I agree.
I would like for it to be Peter Bergman, but my gut tells me that James Reynolds from Days will get it.
I am pulling for Peter Bergman, he is great as Jack Abbott and has done some very good work through this career.
I vote for Billy-a great actor and asset to GH!
The one and only—–
Billy Miller !
1st– He was Jake Doe
2nd– He was Jake/Jason
3rd– He was Jason
4th– He is now Drew
(5th to come- who is Drew)
Billy Miller, he slid from one to the other smooth as silk.
ALL his performances have been above all the others.
BRAVO BRAVO BRAVO !!! – BILLY MIller ..
Oh, su000, how right you are. A few months back, I’d never have imagined that SB’s return would be the best thing to happen to our Billy. But for me, it has. He’s got a brand new man to create and has done it with class, generosity, and brilliance. I still remember those wounded eyes when Sonny, Carly, Robin, et al, turned their backs on him. He’s taken this chance and soared with it while, sadly, SB and Jason languish in dullsville and stand around waiting for Sonny’s latest dirty job to be done or Carly’s newest drama. Second choice is the great Peter Bergman’s brilliant work as the flawed, guilt-ridden Jack. No surprise that Mr. Bergman spotted Billy Miller’s talent early on and helped him find the role of Billy Abbott. These two are a perfect match of talent, creativity, and dedication.
Agreed. Billy Miller or Peter Bergman are my picks. Also, agreed, regarding Steve Burton-such a shame, so much talent and he is forced to be Sonny’s mob dog or Carly’s therapist.
Peter Bergman
Billy Miller! Still wish Maurice Bernard and Billy Flynn were in this category!
Billy Miller
Billy Miller
James Reynolds. Like Camryn Grimes, he broke my heart.
James Reynolds started with this soap in 1981 he took two small breaks in 1991 & 2003 I think this man has earned his stripes I would like for him to get the Emmy and I do not watch the soap anymore. I think it’s way past time to pay respect for this very fine man and actor.
I believe the last time a black actor won for daytime lead actor was 1985 Darnell Williams and since Hollywood tells the rest of us out here in the real world that we are racist etc then put your money where your so vocal mouths are and prove us wrong that you are not what you accuse of us being and give the Emmy to a man of color since you are so hung up on skin color and a good actor he deserves it. Yes I get on my soap box but if you are going to preach to me in your tweets then I am going to get in your face
That’s a great point and really sad it has been that long. I find it sad that the 80s were a more open minded time on our soap screens. James’ story and reel is perfect. Give it to him!
Don’t worry it is all a popular juggling act JR deserves it if PB gets it I won’t be that upset because he is good all the time and respected but I will scream if JR gets it he is a lovely man
“… I will scream if JR gets it he is a lovely man ”
absolutely – the man of the hour… James Reynolds continues to stun and shine
I had to “wiki” this : it seems like EON .. yet Renee Jones only left the show in June 2012. ??? with all due respect… I JUST LOVED this supercouple.
so… Abe and son… where present and didn’t languish
BAM – Theo was SORAS … along comes Lani, Valerie, and Eli.
this is truly a first rate family… who meld so well of off one another. this is why it pains me that TPTB went and fired Kyler… as Theo. nevertheless
James Reynolds as ABe Carver and Son took to the airwaves… and have NOT looked back… with all the SORAS of Joey, Theo, Claire, Ciera , Chase…. around October/November 2015.
since that time… I certainly have seen much more airtime for James Reynolds. he’s nothing short of a revelation. and I will put forth again… he may be @DAYS token person of color… respectfully… James Reynolds is certainly a key vet… whom I LOVE TO BITS. so it’s with warm heart and just wanting to cheer him on.. and someone new to the arena of emmy.
I have loved Abe and his newfound family from the start.
Abe / Valerie / Lani / Theo / Eli. the best work is REELING from this family.
I WANT that James Reynolds takes home gold… his bump up from his emmy nom last year in supporting… is just that… two deserved nominations
I DO NOT watch B&B – never did… I have tons of respect for John McCook @B&B. does he deserve this for his body of work. absolutely. which is why I say he deserved to win this last year. Clifton Scott ? what disrespect.
@GH : Billy Miller and Michael Easton do not belong on this list. I will jump to the top of the heap and say… everybody LOVES Billy Miller… he should have been nominated when he was John Doe. I look for him to be nominated every year from here on out. who wants to be tied in to the Corinthos clan and Steve burton Jason. ??? i’m so glad “Drew” is MOVING on and out of the Sonny and Carly show. PLUS moving along without Sam.
Michael Easton : disgraceful… who wouldn’t have wanted to see a REAL STORY about addiction… that syringe was HUGE. his one night detox with Hayden . MIRACULOUS. to this day… to see him floundering betwixt Anna and Alexis. he’s just not producing any thing of note.
Jack Abbott : who isn’t torn up about any mother and son relationship. it’s that BIG and wrenching of the heart. I’m not watching the show.. and truthfully… acknowledge his STAR @Y&R. but, it’s always going to be … his AMC character Dr. Cliff Warner and Nina Cortlandt where all the magic played.
if he wins… ecstatic
FOR THIS YEARS yield and recognize, Mr. James Reynolds, Days of OUR Lives
John McCook and Billy Miller. As for the other 3…nope. Sorry…but no dice.
Later.
There is a lot of very good material being written for men it seems in this women’s genre, which isn’t so bad if the women’s material would’ve been good as well. Peter Bergman is best in emotional range and skill followed closely by James Reynolds and they both had strong stories, it seems. And John McCook’s was good too.
Michael Easton was in a supporting role in his story with Hayden so while he is fine in it especially paired with her, I’m not sure why he’s in the lead category especially when GH is extremely clear about who they put on contract as lead players. And if they aren’t impressed enough with any of their leads, besides Billy, to put them forth as nominees (or the voters aren’t) then they should shift around who is lead on the show so the audience and voters aren’t bored to tears watching the same repetitive stories.
I think Michael Easton had the strongest scene with his cold turkey addiction……but I think that John McCook had the best chosen reel.
@moviegal…..Even though I abhorred the whole Finn drug thing, Easton did deliver great acting in his portrayal of addiction. As I’ve always enjoyed this man of multi-GH roles, I would be quite pleased to see him take home Emmy….she would certainly be a step up from Alexis!!!! (Hey, just for Finn maintaining a modicum of dignity and a straight face with that cringeworthy romantic farce alone, I have to say give that guy a trophy! He truly deserves it…with Billy Miller a close second….I also adore this actor, but was not at all taken with the copious character revisions that he was forced to undergo in the “Q a Deux” scenario!)
As much as I want Billy Miller to win because he is the most awesome actor, I really feel that James Reynolds, on my fav soap DOOL, deserves to win this year for his much deserved screen time with Theo’s shooting. He was just excellent! Sometimes I wanted to hate him, but as a parent you sympathized and cried along with him❤️
BILLY MILLER!!!!!!!
Peter Bergman-(Jack Abbott) should win this one. He just pulls at the heart strings.
The incredible MICHAEL EASTON!
Billy Miller!!!
The amazingly talented Michael Easton!
They’re all amazing actors! But Michael Easton’s scenes are fantastic, and he is long overdue for this win!
Michael Easton for sure
He has worked hard and delivers always.
His fans love and adore him. And fight to make
Sure he stays around!!
He is an excellent performer and deserves
This award!!!
I can not imagine watching without him!
Michael Easton .
The amazing multi-talented Michael Easton !!!
Michael Easton!! Just love him! He’s had some fantastic material this past year and his talents never cease to amaze me.
It’s been a long time coming for Michael Easton!
I am hoping that Michael Easton wins.
Michael Easton for sure – the man is an incredible actor!
Michael Easton is stunning I think he should win.