Breaking News
52nd Annual Daytime Emmys: Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series Nominees
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.
“Extra” has the honor of announcing the 52nd #DaytimeEmmys nominees for Outstanding Lead Performance in a Daytime Drama Series: Actress & Outstanding Instructional/How-To Program!@DaytimeEmmys pic.twitter.com/PbD087GBVs
— ExtraTV (@extratv) July 9, 2025
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!
Breaking News
‘Santa Barbara’ Favorites A Martinez and Marcy Walker, ‘Cruz and Eden’ Reunion Chat, On Demand Replay Available for Half Price (Exclusive)
The love was felt around the world during the Sunday, June 7 livestream conversation featuring enduring Santa Barbara Daytime Emmy winners, A Martinez and Marcy Walker who played Cruz Castillo and Eden Capwell on the iconic NBC soap opera. The popular duo reunited for this special one-day only special event honoring their most memorable of daytime roles.
Santa Barbara was globally a hit, and nothing illustrated that more than having attendees from 20 countries and over four continents participate in and watch the live chat moderated by Melissa Braverman, the author of Santa Barbara: The Complete Story due out this fall.
While many were not able to purchase the initial livestream when the ticket costs were revealed to be $100, A Martinez previously clarified the event was to also raise money for Walker, who is currently facing a very serious health situation, now there is a way to catch the replay at half the price.

Courtesy: MBraverman
HOW YOU CAN STILL CATCH A AND MARCY’S LIVESTREAM
Michael Fairman TV can share exclusively that if you missed the chance to see and listen to what A and Marcy had to say, On demand access is available at the event link for a half price at $50 (guests can contribute up to $100 if they so chose). Like the livestream, 100% of On demand sales for the recording will be available for a limited time only, and also go toward Marcy’s medical expenses.
There was plenty of laughter, tears, and reminiscing through the the two and a half hour chat which included: some memorable footage and images from the love story of Cruz and Eden. At one point, Marcy reflected on the enduring impact and affection for Cruz and Eden. “You hope that whatever you do in this life, that you’ll make an impact of some kind,” expressed Walker. “It doesn’t have to necessarily be wrapped up in success or career or anything like that, but I think we all want desperately to feel like our time here blessed someone. To hear that somebody’s life was even a moment better because of what we did is a massive gift.

Photo: NBC
A AND MARCY’S DESIRE TO WORK TOGETHER AGAIN
In a moment that brought joy to those in attendance, A and Marcy both expressed a sincere hope and desire that one day they can work together again. Martinez explained, “There’s more avenues to pursue now than there have ever been. I would say just keep a good thought for it. I’ve been holding it for decades, and I fully intend to do whatever I can to make it happen. We’re engaged in trying to make it happen. And you know, we’ll see. I know we both want to do it.” Marcy simply nodded and responded “Amen.”
Melissa Braverman shared with Michael Fairman TV, her sentiments on hosting the Santa Barbara favorites. “Seeing A and Marcy together again, even virtually, was an absolute gift. It instantly reminded all of us why we fell so hard for Cruz and Eden in the first place. Their undeniable chemistry leaped off the screen and straight back into our hearts, proving that the magic they created all those years ago hasn’t faded one bit. Sharing in equal parts laughter and tears felt like catching up with old friends. It just meant the world to see them side-by-side again and to see how this incredible fandom showed up for Marcy during such an important time for her.”
So, if you attended the livestream chat with A Martinez and Marcy Walker, what did you enjoy hearing about the most? Now the tickets have dropped to watch the replay On Demand, would you want to check it out? Let us know via the comment section below.
Breaking News
‘Days of Our Lives’ Officially Confirms Ryan Quan Returning as Co-Head Writer Beginning in July

There is definitely a shake-up going down at the writing team at Peacock’s Days of Our Lives. Now, the long-running soap opera has confirmed, what has been previously reported, that current General Hospital breakdown writer, Ryan Quan is heading back to his old stomping grounds in Salem. This time as the series co-head writer.
The appointment of Quan comes with the official news that current co-head writer, Paula Cwikly, who was previously rumored to be departing the series, is not. She is staying with the soap opera and transitioning to a consultant role with the show. Now, Quan will join current co-head writer, Jeanne Marie Ford to steer the ship for the characters on the canvas.
On Wednesday, TV Insider, reported the official confirmation and that Quan will return to DAYS next month in July. In a statement to the outlet, executive producer, Ken Corday expressed, ‘We are lucky to have Ryan back in the fold. There are very few people who have such a deep knowledge and understanding of our show’s history. Stay tuned!”

Photo: JPI
THE FUTURE OF DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Since Days of our Lives unusual production schedule tapes ten-months ahead of air, the new creative team’s vision led by Quan and Jeanne Marie Ford are not expected to stream on Peacock until mid-2027.
Days of Our Lives is currently renewed through its 63rd season. The former NBC soap opera which transitioned to Peacock in September of 2022, celebrate its 60th anniversary in November of 2025.
The writing regime change comes after NBCUniversal Media Chairman Matt Strauss revealed that Peacock is expected to turn a profit for the first time in the current quarter, punctuating their investment with the enduring soap opera on its platform.
As for Quan, his knowledge of Salem is tremendous. Ryan joined Days of Our Lives as a writer’s assistant in 2007 after some time over at Passions. He then spent two decades and held every position on the writing team where he previously served as co-head writer from 2016-17 alongside Dena Higley.
Later, when Ron Carlivati took over as head writer for 7 years in 2017, Quan became his right-hand man and main story consultant for his deep knowledge of the history and the legacy of the show. After Carlivati exited the show in 2024, General Hospital hired Quan in 2025.
So, what do you think about DAYS making it official with Ryan Quan as the new co-head writer of the series alongside Jeanne Marie Ford. What do you think about the fact we won’t see the changes on-screen till 2027? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
Breaking News
ABC Announces ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Texas Spin-Off Gets Straight-to-Series Order

In a surprise move, coming a week after ABC unveiled its 2026-2027 fall television schedule, Grey’s Anatomy is getting a new spinoff co-created by the original series’ creator/executive producer Shonda Rhimes.
The new untitled medical drama will be written and executive produced by Rhimes and Grey’s Anatomy showrunner/executive producer Meg Marinis under the Shondaland and 20th Television umbrella. In addition, long-running ‘Grey’s’ star Ellen Pompeo will also serve as an EP of the spinoff.
The upcoming new series will debut midseason in 2027. This will be the first of Grey’s franchise not set in urban city or West Coast locale. According to Deadline, the new “edgy drama is about a team at a rural West Texas medical center — the last chance for care before miles of nowhere.”

Photo: ABC
In a statement, Marinis shared, “I am incredibly excited to expand the Grey’s Anatomy universe. This opportunity will bring new characters and stories to life that will embody the same heart, emotion and connection audiences have loved from Grey’s for more than two decades — all set in my home state of Texas. I am so grateful to Shonda Rhimes for creating this dynamic world and feel so fortunate that I get to be a part of it.”
A NEW GROUP OF DOCTORS IN RURAL TEXAS
The Texas spinoff will feature a a new group of doctors, but there will be some connection to the OG Grey’s Anatomy and possibly to Debbie Allen’s character of Catherine Fox. The amount of episodes in the series order has not yet been determined. Previous Grey’s Anatomy spinoffs were the defunct Station 19 and Private Practice.
Previously, Grey’s Anatomy was renewed for its upcoming 23rd season while the amount of episodes is unclear. The last two seasons the series produced 18 episodes.
It should also be noted, Grey’s Anatomy and the Texas spinoff would likely share a time period, which requires limited-run orders for both with Grey’s premiering in the fall, followed by the spinoff on the midseason programming block.
So, what do you think about a Texas spinoff of Grey’s Anatomy coming in 2027? Who would you like to see from daytime or primetime as some of the featured roles as new doctors? Put on your casting directors hat and let us know via the comment section below.
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