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52nd Annual Daytime Emmys: Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series Nominees

By Michael Fairman

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Photos: CBS and ABC

Ahead of Thursday’s full list of nominations for the upcoming 52nd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, some of the major categories were announced on Wednesday via several syndicated television entertainment/news programs including: Entertainment Tonight, Extra and Access Hollywood.

NATAS (National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences) will unveil the rest of the nominations on Thursday at 12pm ET/9 am PT via their account on X @TheEmmys or TheEmmysTV.

Meanwhile, Extra got the exclusive to reveal the nominees in the Outstanding Lead Performance in A Daytime Drama Series: Actress. In a very competitive year, the field of leading ladies going for gold will be six; four from the The Young and the Restless and two from General Hospital.

Photo: JPI

Here are the nominees in the Outstanding Lead Performance in A Daytime Drama Series:

Sharon Case (Sharon Newman, The Young and the Restless)
Eileen Davidson (Ashley Abbott, The Young and the Restless)
Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea Lawson, The Young and the Restless)
Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis Davis, General Hospital)
Michelle Stafford (Phyllis Summers, The Young and the Restless)
Laura Wright (Carly Spencer, General Hospital)

In the category of Outstanding Lead Performance in A Daytime Drama Series: Actress, 5 of the 6 nominees are past Emmy winners and some a few times over, with only Y&R’s Melissa Claire Egan as the lone actress who has yet to get the gold after 7 previous nominations.

Photo: JPI

In addition, Sharon Case won in 1999 for Outstanding Supporting Actress, Eileen Davidson has won two previous Daytime Emmys in the Lead Actress category: one for her work on Days of our Lives as Kristen  in 2014, and one for her performances as Ashley on The Young and the Restless in 2018.

Nancy Lee Grahn had won two Supporting Actress Emmys, the first in a tie with AMC’s Debbi Morgan in 1989 for Santa Barbara and the second for her role as Alexis on General Hospital in 2012. Michelle Stafford was last year’s winner in the Outstanding Lead Actress category, while she previously won 1997 and 2004. GH’s Laura Wright took home the gold in 2011 for Lead Actress.

So, who are you rooting for to win the Daytime Emmy in the Lead Actress category? Is there an actress you think was snubbed from this list? Share your thoughts in the comment section You can check out Extra’s official announcement of the nominees in this category below.

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Melissa Clare Egan and Eileen Davidson are the two head scratchers here! The young and the restless has been a snore and I’ll give case and Stafford credit they preformed in there storyline but 4 actresses from one show I don’t get it

Eileen Davidson was used pretty heavily in 2024 with the Dissociative Identity Disorder storyline, and Melissa Claire Egan with the mental health one, as well.

I thought the mental health one was year prior I guess this late voting has been thrown off

Sharon Case, Eileen Davidson, or Nancy Lee Grahn for Outstanding Lead Actress. However, I am disappointed Rebekah Elmaloglou did not receive a well-deserved nomination for her work as Terese Willis on Neighbours (which got unfairly ignored).

Chelsea made the suicide attempt on October, 2022. She dealt with the subsequent mental health issues in 2023 which earned her an Emmy nomination. In 2024, she did nothing but engage in rapid and breathless speech about Connor and bore the heck out of viewers with the forced pairing with Adam.

I think it’s Nancy Lee Grahn’s year, but if for some reason she doesn’t get the award (crap happens all the time at the Daytime Emmys, and it wouldn’t be the first time viewers were left running around thinking, “How is that even possible?”), I’d be delighted to see Sharon Case win. In my opinion, she’s overdue.

This is my take on it as well. NLG deserves to win, and Sharon Case is my alternative choice. But for gosh sake give it to Nancy!!!!

This should wind down to Grahn vs Case. Are Davidson and Egan really leads? Surprised not to see MTS as a nominee and grateful not to see JMW again.

As for Wright, Carly started out 2024 in a moribund relationship with a (then) dull Drew. She did flourish with Mesure’s Brennan. Just wondering what reels she submitted.

West turned s**t into sugar with what she was given during the brief Mulcahey period. That alone was worthy of accolades.

Egan shouldn’t even be considered

I swear the voters are not up to date on their soap watching. Laura Wright, Melissa Clare, Eileen Davidson Eagan and Michelle Stafford are all solid actresses but haven’t had any compelling storylines in the last couple of years at all. The only one who makes sense in the best actress category is Nancy Lee Grahn. Cynthia Watros and Finola Hughes should have been given an Emmy nod. It’s as if the voters are on automatic pilot.

Thinking way back to January of 2024, Wright could have submitted her work around Bobbie’s memorial.

I’m a bit surprised that Melody Thomas Scott (Nikki; YR) was snubbed unless she didn’t submit.

Susan Seaforth Hayes also deserved a best actress nomination for Julie on Days of our Lives. Her work playing the loss of Doug mirrored her real life loss of Bill. I am not suggesting the other nominees did not deserve theirs, but Susan should have been honored as well. The difficulty and gravity of the scenes were heartbreaking and Susan played the storyline beautifully.

Susan should be nominated in the Supporting Actress category and would be the runaway favorite to win. Tune in tomorrow to find out…

I have read – I don’t know if it’s true – that Susan submitted in lead this year.

Pulling for the CBS gals.

9 years in a row for CBS to win is beyond obnoxious! It is Nancy’s year, she was PHENOMENAL!

All the same boring people

This should be Nancy’s year.

I have a clear favorite, she must win and that is Nancy Lee Grahn. She was AMAZING in her storylines in 2024, consistently brilliant! She has never won Lead Actress – twice in supporting for two different shows.

I am so sick of CBS winning in this category every single darn year! Enough already! 4 Y&R actresses? I can only hope that Cynthia Watros and Maura West didn’t submit, which would explain their not being among the nominees.

My second choice is Sharon Case – she was fantastic and I am so glad she is nominated. I would be o.k. with her winning but NLG deserves it.

I suspect Melissa Claire Egan will become the most nominated actress without a win – I think this is her 8th nomination?

This is the nominee I most care about this year: Nancy Lee Grahn! I really want her to win!

Surprised to see Eileen in Lead Actress as I don’t think she drove enough story for enough of the year. Congrats to the Sharon, Michelle, Eileen, and Melissa.

Nancy Lee Grahn for the win. Her material this past year was heart-wrenching. She is consistently at the top of her game.

And for those of you who don’t like her politics, please don’t dismiss her based on your differences. Look at her acting and then I’m sure you’ll agree this year’s award should be hers.

If Nancy Grahn we’ll have to endure anti Donald Trump anti America anti Christian anti men anti everything tirade

Let’s hope Sharon Case wins who deserves it

Oh then, I’m really rooting for Nancy!

I’m rooting for Beyond Them Gates

“Beyond Them Gates” Dottie? Really? I hear your dog whistle and it’s offensive. Moreover, as you are well aware, Beyond the Gates did not air until February of 25, therefore, not eligible.

Beyond Them Gates is my favorite show child. It’s like Brewsta Place

No it’s nothing like Brewster Place. Tell, me Dottie, what thread count do you prefer on the sheets you wear? Nevertheless, I see you.

I wear B Smith designa sheets child

Just how is NLG anti-America? Please be specific.

Her’s will be the most eagerly anticipated speech of the night.

The award is based on performance.

I’m not a fan of hers but I don’t deny her talent I loved her on Santa Barbara it’s her politics that are annoying

That’s a totally fair evaluation. Doesn’t mean she’s anti-America.

Dottie and fair don’t belong in the same sentence.

Your president is more annoying.

Melody does not submit has not for a long time . She has been in the business a long time she does not need a so called trophy to prove her worth to daytime . She is probably the only actress I know that has the guts to go without makeup etc

Also Nancy should be judged on her acting nothing else leave her alone ! She has her beliefs we are all entitled to them this is what makes our country great let her speak I don’t agree with her but I respect her it’s her right!

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‘Days of our Lives’ Veteran James Reynolds Reveals Parkinson’s Diagnosis

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James Reynolds

Days of our Lives long-running cast member James Reynolds revealed on the November 10 edition of Entertainment Tonight that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and his character of Abe Carver will now be going through an on-screen Parkinson’s battle as well.

Speaking with ET’s Nischelle Turner, the 80-year-old actor and Daytime Emmy winner shared how he attempted to hide the warning signs dating back to 15-20 years ago when he would have, “What they call the hallucinations. My wife (Lissa) would say, ‘You were hitting me last night in bed,’ and I would say, ‘What?!’ I was having these really horrible dreams.” Reynolds also added that he realized falling out of bed was an early symptom of Parkinson’s too.

Discussing the on-going tremors that have become more noticeable over time especially in hands, James shared that when he finally told the Days of our Lives cast they were nothing but “extraordinarily helpful and supportive.”

Photo: ET

SCREEN LIFE TO MIRROR REAL LIFE

Now with DAYS about to launch into Abe’s Parkinson’s storyline, Reynolds hopes that he can turn his experience into something positive by encouraging others facing the disease to keep fighting. During the sit-down, Reynolds co-star Jackée Harry (Paulina Price) recalls her reaction to learning of Reynolds’ real-life diagnosis and how she has continued to search for new treatments to inform James about.

Although Parkinson’s disease currently has no cure, there are medications and treatments can help those manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The condition progresses at a different pace from individual to individual.

As discussed in his conversation with ET, Reynolds cited Michael J. Fox and Alan Alda as two high-profile celebrities who have brought awareness to the disease.

Abe

Photo: JPI

In story on DAYS, Abe in recent weeks had been experiencing tremors which led to seek help and a diagnosis Dr. Kayla Johnson (Mary Beth Evans). Soon Abe and others will find out of his battle with Parkinson’s. Although on the promo for this week’s DAYS, Abe is seen telling Kayla, that he will do something, “when the time is right.”

James Reynolds is one of the most prolific performers, being the longest-running Black Actor in a role on a television series, not to mention his aforementioned Lead Actor Daytime Emmy win in 2018, and being inducted in 2025 into the Daytime Emmy Gold and Silver Society of honorees.

You can check out James’ in-depth conversation on his Parkinson’s diagnosis below.

Share your thoughts for James after learning of his health battle, and what do you think of Days of our Lives incorporating the disease into Abe Carver’s Salem storyline? Let us know in the comment section.

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Beyond the Gates

2026 Daytime Emmys Red Carpet: Men Duded Up – Who’s Got the Look? (Photos)

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The 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards red carpet arrivals featured many a leading man from your favorite soaps, plus the younger stars and veteran actors you’ve come to love.

The gents were definitely about the bowties this year, plus fashion-forward trends, classic suit and tux looks, or sport jacket and no tie. There were a myriad of fashion choices on display from the one thing the soaps are usually known for, ‘hot’ guys.

This year for the first time the red carpet featured the cast of Beyond the Gates who were eligible for Daytime Emmy competition for the first time in their young history, bringing fresh faces and new vibes to the festivities.

LEADING MEN, VETERAN STARS AND NEWCOMERS STRIKE A POSE

Many of this year’s nominees who went on to become eventual winners, previous Emmy winners, and more, took to the carpet to strike a pose for the paparazzi in attendance.

Some of the standout looks came from (pictured above): Steve Burton (Jason Morgan, General Hospital) in traditional black tux with a sheen, Lawrence Saint-Victor (Carter Walton, The Bold and the Beautiful), Giovanni Mazza (Gio Palmieri), Jibre Hordges (Jacob Hawthorne, Beyond the Gates) and Michael Graziadei  (Daniel Romalotti, The Young and the Restless), all wearing tuxes, suits or sportcoat and trousers with a bowtie, plus now two-time Daytime Emmy winner, Roger Howarth (Matt Clark, The Young and the Restless) who gave us that stellar jacket and more relaxed vibe for the carpet.

Now below, check out the other actors who made an impression with red carpet fashion at the Daytime Emmy Awards this past Friday night.

Al Calderon Daytime Emmys Red Carpet

Photo: NATAS

Days of our Lives and Brilliant Minds alum, Al Calderon (ex-Javi Hernandez), a Daytime Emmy nominee in light green suit.

Jaden Lucas Miller Daytime Emmys Red Carpet 2026

Photo: NATAS

Beyond the Gates’ Jaden Lucas Miller (Tyrell Richardson) had it put together from head to toe making his first appearance at a Daytime Emmy red carpet.

Eric Braeden Daytime Emmys red carpet

Photo: NATAS

The icon, Y&R’s Eric Braeden, a nominee this year for Lead Actor for his performances as Victor Newman took to the red carpet alongside his granddaughter, but took a moment to pose solo for the cameras.

Alex Cheeks

Photo: NATAS

Alex Cheeks who plays Donnell McBride on Beyond the Gates took to the carpet in this blue suit with brooch.

Dominic Zamprogna Daytime Emmy Awards 2026

Photo: NATAS

General Hospital’s Dominic Zamprogna (Dante Falconeri) entering the red carpet from the street stylin’ in blue jacket and white sneakers.

Harrison Cone Daytime Emmy Awards Red Carpet

Photo: NATAS

The Bold and the Beautiful’s Harrison Cone (Deke Sharpe) bringing the on-trend fashion to the Emmys, as well as he would as the young fashion designer at Logan!

Sawandi Wilson 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards

Photo: NATAS

General Hospital’s Sawandi Wilson (Dr. Isaiah Gannon) in velvet red tuxedo stood out on the red carpet.

Paul Telfer 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards

Photo: JPI

Last year’s Lead Actor Daytime Emmy winner, Paul Telfer (Xander Kiriakis, Days of our Lives) returned this year to present several awards on-stage and hit the red carpet in very stylish black kilt.

Kyle Pryor

Photo: NATAS

Days of our Lives’ newest leading man, Kyle Pryor made his debut on the Daytime Emmy red carpet. He premieres tomorrow on the November 2nd episode of the Peacock streaming soap operas as Dominik Marino.

Sean Freeman - Daytime Emmys Red Carpet

Photo: NATAS

Beyond the Gates star, Sean Freeman (Andre Richardson) always looks super cool. This time in white jacket and packets making a fashion statement on his first Daytime Emmys red carpet.

Crew Morrow

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

The Bold and the Beautiful’s Crew Morrow (Will Spencer) opted for a jean jacket and black sheen jeans to take to the carpet, but still bringing the swag.

Christopher Sean Daytime Emmys Red Carpet 2026

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

Days of our Lives alum Christopher Sean (Paul Narita), a nominee for Guest Performer in a Daytime Drama Series took to the red carpet in beautiful blue.

So, which men do you think were looking good? Did the actors bring it to the red carpet? Let us know your thoughts and picks via the comment section below.

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2026 Daytime Emmy Awards Red Carpet: Women in Glam – Who’s Got the Look?

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Daytime Emmys Red Carpet Arrival women

The 53rd annual Daytime Emmys red carpet was filled with the leading ladies of soap opera, with an array of styles, looks and fashion trends: from bright vibrant colored gowns, plenty of sequins, pantsuits, retro looks, to fashion-forward and more.

From many an Emmy newcomer to the carpet with the stars of Beyond the Gates making their first-ever appearances on daytime’s biggest night, to veteran fan favorites, to the nominees and the guest stars, these women walked the carpet showing off their 2026 fashion sensibilities to the paparazzi.

Let’s take a look at some of the noteworthy looks starting with pictured above: Beyond the Gates star and now Emmy winner, Ambyr Michelle (Eva Thomas), Days of our Lives’ Abigail Klein (Stephanie Johnson), and Sal Stowers (Lani Price Grant), General Hospital’s Katelyn MacMullen (Willow Tait) and alum and nominee Eva LaRue (ex-Natalia Rogers Ramirez).

DRESSED TO IMPRESS

Now below, check out some of the other red carpet looks from the actresses of Beyond the Gates, Days of our Lives, General Hospital, The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless, and then you can let us know in the comment section the answer to our question, “Who’s got the look?”

Amanda Setton, Daytime Emmys red carpet

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

General Hospital’s Amanda Setton, a first-time Emmy nominee for her work as Brook Lynn Quartermaine, looked beautiful in burgundy.

Tamara Tunie, 2026 Daytime Emmys red carpet

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

The Belle of the Ball: Beyond the Gates star Tamara Tunie wowed the red carpet, and later took home her first Lead Actress Daytime Emmy for her role as Anita Dupree.

Hayley Erin 2026 Daytime Emmys Red Carpet

Photo: NATAS

Y&R star, Hayley Erin (Claire) look stylish and in the popular burgundy dress color trend on the carpet.

Kelly Kruger - 2026 Daytime Emmys red carpet

Photo: NATAS

General Hospital’s Kelly Kruger (Serena Baldwin) dressed in black and brought elegance to the carpet.

Christel Khalil 2026 Daytime Emmys Red Carpet

Photo: NATAS

Y&R star, Christel Khalil (Lily Winters) looked stunning in this olive green dress and matching handbag and earrings.

Alexa Havins 2026 Daytime Emmys Red Carpet

Photo: NATAS

General Hospital’s Alexa Havins (Lulu Spencer) also dressed in sophisticated black with embroidered top and sarong dress.

Cherie Jimenez 2-26 Daytime Emmys red carpet

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

Days of our Lives’ Cherie Jimenez (Gabi Hernandez), who always wows on the carpet, did so again this year in a pearl white gown.

Rhonni Rose Mantilla

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

Beyond the Gates’ Rhonni Rose Mantilla’s (Chelsea Hamilton) in a cobalt blue dress making her first appearance on a Daytime Emmys red carpet.

Kristen Vagnos, Daytime Emmys red Carpet

Photo: NATAS

General Hospital’s Kristen Vaganos (Molly Lansing-Davis) in a pale peach dress took to the Emmys red carpet.

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

General Hospital’s Braedyn Bruner (Emma Drake), a first-time Daytime Emmy nominee, showed youth with elegance.

Maura West and Cynthia Watros 2026 Daytime Emmys Red Carpet

Photo: NATAS

General Hospital’s Maura West (Ava Jerome) and Cynthia Watros (Nina Reeves), both past Lead Actress Daytime Emmy winners, were on-hand to root on this year’s nominee in the category and for their show, which ultimately won Outstanding Drama Series.

Michelle Stafford 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards

Photo: JPI

Three-time Daytime Emmy winner, Michelle Stafford (Phyllis Summers) of The Young and the Restless definitely had people turning heads during the red carpet arrivals.

Melissa Claire Egan - Daytime Emmys Red Carpet 2026

Photo: HutchinsPhoto

Y&R’s Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea Lawson) took to the red carpet also in a black dress with her latest hairstyle!

Finola Hughes 2026 Daytime Emmys Red Carpet

Photo: Hutchins Photo

The one and only Finola Hughes (Anna Devane, General Hospital) opted for a sleek, yet comfortable style for the 2026 Daytime Emmys.

So, who do you think wore it best from the women on this year’s Daytime Emmys Red Carpet? Let us know your thoughts and picks via the comment section below.

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