News
Are Men Portrayed As Doofuses On Daytime Dramas and Commercials? Y&R's Eric Braeden Weighs-In!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Now here is a subject that we have often thought about over the years when watching our favorite daytime dramas unfold! We don’t think many of you wouldn’t agree that many, many times the male characters are either in the dark in the situation with their on-screen leading lady, or with all the signs right in front of them, they can’t figure out the mystery, what their love-mate is up to, or that they are being tricked in to bed, or that they are being duped into being a baby’s bi0-dad, and the list goes on and on!
Now, the very outspoken icon of The Young and the Restless Eric Braeden (Victor Newman) brings that up in a new interview with TV Guide Magazine’s Michael Logan how in our popular culture, particularly in commercials, how men can be dumbed down, and also how he believes there should be mutual respect in a relationship between two people, something that isn’t currently happening between Y&R’s Nikki and Victor!
When discussing the upcoming first anniversary of Victor and Nikki’s (Melody Thomas Scott) fourth marriage on March 24th, and that the on-screen duo is having pretty big problems between them these days, and that Nikki has had it with Victor, Braeden responded: “And he’s had it with her! That’s what I resent about popular culture in America! Why is it always the woman who has had it with the guy? There’s a tendency in this country — dictated by revenue — to make men look like a——s. They do that in order to sell products to women. Look at most commercials! The men are portrayed as schmucks! As boobs! As doofuses! The kids are smarter than the men. The wives are smarter. It happens in comedy series all the time, too. The man is the idiot and the woman is always raising her eyebrows or rolling her eyes in exasperation. I resent the hell out of that and it ain’t gonna happen with me and my character!”
Later when discussing that Nikki has been getting the last word in confrontational scenes with the mighty Victor, Braeden exclaimed: “It is getting too much! I would not tolerate that in my personal life. I believe in the equality of sexes. I discuss everything with my wife. There’s not a major decision I make without consulting with her and vice versa. There must be mutual respect. But for Victor to stand there like a schmuck and let Nikki have the last word? I don’t like that. There is this underlying presumption in some of the scripts that the women have the upper hand. No! I resent that!”
So, do you agree with Eric Braeden? Are women getting the upper hand on their men in daytime dramas? Do many of the male characters come off like idiots? What do you think of how Victor and Nikki’s relationship is portrayed? Weigh-in!
All My Children
Mark Consuelos Celebrates Kelly Ripa’s 56th Birthday on ‘Live,’ But Remember When Wendy Williams Outed the Couple as Married Before Anyone at ‘All My Children’ Knew?
On the Friday, October 2 episode of Live with Kelly and Mark, the morning talk show marked the 56th birthday of Kelly Ripa (ex-Hayley Vaughan Santos, All My Children).
During the opening segment, Mark Consuelos (ex-Mateo Santos, All My Children) humorously comparing his wife to both Gandhi and Groucho Marx, reflecting on both her comedic ability and peaceful ways.
Later, they went on to discuss the origins of her name and the most popular picks to name babies back in the year she was born, 1970. They were Kimberly, Lisa, and Jennifer for girls and Michael, David, and James for the boys.
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
Ripa recalled that she learned she was almost named Kim. However, their neighbors at the time had two daughters Kelly and Kim, which is what her parents wanted to call them, but they settled on Kelly and and her younger sister, Linda.
At the conclusion of the episode, Mark rolled out a huge cake for his wife. It was, “Happy birthday from all of us here at Live and at home.” Next, he cut the cake, and Ripa grabbed his face and gave him a “thank you” kiss.
Photo: JPI
KELLY AND MARK TRIED TO KEEP THEIR VEGAS WEDDING ON THE DOWN LOW
All of this brings back memories of how Kelly and Mark’s Las Vegas wedding ceremony went public in 1996 while the two were still on All My Children playing Mateo Santos and Hayley Vaughan. In essence, they were outed by then radio host Wendy Williams! They discussed it on the talk show back in 2024.
In fact, the duo hid their marriage from their All My Children castmates for months, until they found out Williams got wind of the nuptials and spread the intel on the airwaves.
The two recalled their secret wedding on a 2024 episode of Live! “We’d eloped. It’d been a few months at that point. We’d been married for three months, nobody at All My Children knew we were even dating, much less married to each other. We’re brushing our teeth and we’ve got Wendy Williams’ radio show on. We’re listening, and she’s like, ‘I’ve got celebrity dish!”
EYEWITNESS
Next Ripa continued, “The celebrities,’ I guess they had a broad use of the term back then, was the fact that ‘two soap stars from All My Children, Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos eloped in Las Vegas.’ There was this eyewitness that worked in the Clark County courthouse that said we eloped, and the news broke, and we had to tell everybody we were married.”
Live With Kelly and Mark airs weekdays in syndication. Check your local listings for times in your area.
Share your birthday wishes for Kelly in the comment section, and let us know your thoughts on how Wendy Williams broadcast the news, unbeknownst to the All My Children newlyweds, that they tied the knot in Vegas? Check out Mark and the ‘Live’ studio audience singing ‘happy birthday’ to Kelly in the post below.
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Beyond the Gates
TUNE-IN: ‘Beyond the Gates’ Banneker Homecoming Episodes, EP Sheila Ducksworth Speaks on Impact HBCUs Have in Real Life
As previously reported, kicking off today, is a two-part Beyond the Gates, when The Duprees gather to celebrate Banneker University’s homecoming weekend.
The producers and writers are taking an opportunity to spotlight the rich traditions of the long-held tradition of attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through its fictional university.
The episodes are today on CBS and stream on Paramount+ on Friday, October 2 and next week on Monday, October 5, where in true Beyond the Gates fashion, there will be some surprising drama that ensues when someone shows up!
Photo: CBS
BANNEKER REFLECTS THE IMPORTANCE OF HBCUS
Sheila Duckworth, (executive producer, Beyond the Gates) spoke to Soaps.com to give some insight on the decision for the series to illustrate the ties that bind with HBCUs.
“It was important that we have this school as almost a character on our canvas, right from the beginning. Beyond even education, HBCUs have been pivotal when it comes to everything from economic progression and fostering a sense of community to the development of leadership skills,” explained Ducksworth. “From the beginning, we wanted to illustrate that what the Duprees are able to do in the world was a direct reflection of the impact HBCU’s have in real life.”
EVERYTHING HAS ITS PURPOSE
The EP talked about how purposeful the elements that integrate Banneker into the overall story of Beyond the Gates are including: the Dupree family door knocker that is a lion, the mascot for the fictional university, plus, the upcoming fight song that the cast will sing together on the Monday, October 5 episode, and the painting the hangs at Fairmont Crest.
That portrait of Vernon Dupree’s (Clifton Davis) father, George Cheeks Dupree, that hangs prominently at the country club, was named after CBS executive George Cheeks (now Chairman of TV and Media, Paramount), and as Ducksworth says of the legacy of Vernon’s father, “He was the architect of Fairmont Crest.”
So, are you looking forward to these episodes honoring HBCU traditions with the Dupree and the Richardson clans? What surprises do you think might be in store come next week? Let us know via the comment section below.
Days Of Our Lives
‘General Hospital’ Alum Tajh Bellow Fills In for ‘Days of our Lives’ Tyler Joseph Andrews in the Role of Theo Carver
After an earlier post on Thursday, October 1 about General Hospital alumni Tajh Bellow’s (ex-TJ Ashford) upcoming project from Issa Rae’s HOOPAE Digital, comes word that Bellow is temporarily stepping into the role of Days of our Lives Theo Carver to fill in for Tyler Joseph Andrews on the Peacock streaming soap opera.
According to TV Insider, Bellow will be making a one-day appearance next week on the October 6 episode of DAYS as Andrews was unable to make the tape date that was shot 10 months ago on a day last December. Andrews (pictured below) took over the role of Theo in September of 2025.
In Bellow’s upcoming episode as Theo, he will share scenes with Cherie Jimenez (Gabi Hernandez). A DAYS spokesperson tells the outlet that Bellow “stepped seamlessly into the role, and the cast and crew were grateful for his professionalism and commitment, albeit for only one episode.”
Photo: JPI
TAJH WILL BE SEEN IN MULTIPLE PROJECTS IN OCTOBER
As General Hospital fans know, Tajh played the role of TJ Ashford from 2018 to his last appearance in December of 2024. Along the way, he received two Daytime Emmy nominations for his performances as TJ, the last being in 2025 in the Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series category.
In addition, bellow along with Y&R alum Loren Lott will be seen starting on October 14 in the new Love Island spoof series, The Compatibility Experiment. The show will drop exclusively on TikTok and the PineDrama platform.
The Compatibility Experiment gives a satirical look at reality dating shows, think Love Island! The story centers around Kelvin (Bellow) and Camila (Lott), whose relationship is put to the test when they join a reality show to try to win a the million dollar prize.
So, what do you think of Tajh stepping in for Tyler Joseph Andrews as Theo on DAYS? Perhaps, the soap opera liked his work that he might be considered for another role in the future bringing Bellow back to the soaps? Let us know your thoughts via the comment section below.
Mark Consuelos Celebrates Kelly Ripa’s 56th Birthday on ‘Live,’ But Remember When Wendy Williams Outed the Couple as Married Before Anyone at ‘All My Children’ Knew?
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‘General Hospital’ Alum Tajh Bellow Fills In for ‘Days of our Lives’ Tyler Joseph Andrews in the Role of Theo Carver
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‘Beyond the Gates’ Honors HBCU Tradition with Banneker University Homecoming Episodes
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Mark Consuelos Celebrates Kelly Ripa’s 56th Birthday on ‘Live,’ But Remember When Wendy Williams Outed the Couple as Married Before Anyone at ‘All My Children’ Knew?
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sonny Tells Dante, “I Don’t Want a Son Like You,” While Michael Tells Brook Lynn to Bide Her Time Till Chase and Willow Have an Affair
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I get what Eric Braeden is saying but he needs to watch B&B, where Ridge’s past is never brought back and thrown in his face the way Brooke’s is. I sat through weeks of B&B having Ridge and Katie tell Brooke that she’s the one who’s been wrong, trampy, egotistic, needy, amoral, etc. All that may be true but it doesn’t change the fact that over the years, Ridge has done some pretty awful things, too, and a new actor with a different face doesn’t change history. If B&B called Ridge out on his past and his mistakes as often as they do Brooke, I’d enjoy the show more. I guess I agree with Mr. Braeden and wish for more equality on B&B, but from the woman’s POV.
Eric Braeden ”I resent the hell out of that and it ain’t gonna happen with me and my character!”
LOL poor man..
He believes he is Y&R and it his way or no way, is the way I see it..
I totally understand how EB and MM would be at ”fisticuffs” lol
JPF and higher-ups will bow to EB, as always..
Anyways– Eric Braeden is an actor hired to act out what is written for him to portray not be king of Y&R and strong arm people..
Guess he feels he needs to be #1 in all dealings..
Braeden should keep his mouth shut. His comments are a constant reminder of his huge ego and arrogance. He acts like Victor Newman and obviously treats people the same. His foul-mouthed comments show just the kind of person he really is.
Can you imagine having to work with this guy all of the time? UGH.
RIGHT ON, Sammie…AGREED!!!!! That insufferable Eric Braeden reminds me of the typical bully (from a playground) who NEVER GREW UP!!!!! Beyond sad.
I couldn’t agree more. When that Bully comes on it’s either Mute button, bathroom brake, or making of a cup of tea.
DAYS E.M. is jumping up and down screaming his head off!!! “Yes”!!!
Very smart man!! You go Eric!!
Oh, I’m sorry. For once Victor Newman isn’t the puppet master of a situation and Nikki is finally having the last word in confrontations instead of being verbally abused- you’re right, Eric Braeden, what a travesty!
Give me a break! MEN, especially on Young and the Restless, are portrayed as “schmucks”? Victoria was just cheated on, Chloe lost her child so she automatically went crazy, Chelsea has lost any backbone she once had, Jill is being played like a fiddle, Summer has no sense of survival or growth, and, finally, we come to Sharon Newman, who the writers have completely destroyed, while using a serious, mental disorder like bipolar as the non-creative solution.
Oh and Victor isn’t being informed of every action? I’m sorry, when did he mention to Nikki that he hired a look-a-like of their DEAD GRANDCHILD to torment the mother of his grandchildren?
Eric Braeden really should consider what he says before he speaks otherwise the only man being shown as a “doofus” is himself.
Great post! Eric Braedon really is Victor Newman. He seems to be pouting over TGVN getting set up (hopefully) for a long overdue fall. And he doesn’t follow the story? How does an actor not follow a show he you know, acts in? Unbelievably arrogant.
Right On!
I think characters in general are lacking intelligence because the writers aren’t are good as they were in soaps heyday. Its often the case characters whom we are expected to believe are highly educated and affluent are going along with asinine scenarios that paint them as idiots. I don’t see that trend going away soon.
I watch Y&R regularly and its full of eye rolling WTF’s. But to go on social media and voice concern seems futile as head honchos seem to chalk off criticism as complaining. I think HW, EP’s and head of networks would be thrilled if every fan turned a blind eye to the discrepancies in storytelling and blow as much hot air as they do about how “good” they think these shows are. I complain because too many stories and scenarios have holes in them you could drive a mack truck through. Also at the warped speed at which stories are now told logic and common sense often take a back seat to moving plot along. If Eric is worried Victor is being made to look a fool he should know he’s not alone. Dylan McAvoy is great example of a dumb character they are selling as the ultimate nice guy hoping most fans will overlook that he’s a dip shit.
I’d love to sit down with Angelica McDaniel and discuss why most fans aren’t jumping of board with current Y&R but I think she drinks the kool-aid just like the people she oversees.
Well said.
I often felt that the two daytime shows with the most masculine perspectives were GH and Y & R. In a market created with women in mind, it is interesting that these shows are two of the last still standing. Sonny Corinthos and Victor Newman are the alpha males characters that define their perspective shows.
Erica Kane, Dorian & Victoria Lord, Rachael Cory, Lucinda Walsh…… Nearly every other long-lasting serial had a woman’s soul defining it.
Please read the entire interview I feel so sorry for people who have to work with this man. I read the interview to my husband and his quote was utter arrogance for a guy who has mumbled for 30 plus years.
So true. I can’t fathom having to put up with his ego day-in and day-out. He’s beyond belief. What kind of horror must he be like to work with? Awful.
I see it a lot on Days. Brady Black is a prime example. Don’t get me started on EJ’s current storyline. Another baby story? Just no. By now he has to know where babies come from.
“But for Victor to stand there like a schmuck and let Nikki have the last word? I don’t like that. There is this underlying presumption in some of the scripts that the women have the upper hand. No! I resent that!”
Makes me wonder if Mr. Braeden is acting or just being himself on the show.
EB shouldn’t take it personally, there is a general dumbing down of both sexes on television – if he thinks women are getting a better deal tell him to watch any of the Real Life of Housewives reality shows, or any reality show on TLC for that matter.
As for commercials the day when I don’t have to watch a woman having an organism over her shampoo, or crying because her dishes aren’t sparkling clean or see a beer commercial without at least one half naked lady in it, then I might have sympathy for the odd ad that has a man acting like doofus.
As for Victor he is a fictional character who is anything the writers write him to be including a smuck and EB gets paid handsomely to bring that smuck to life. He can go home at the end of day and be whatever he wants to be in his real life, but on the show he is paid to portray what they give him.
So well said…i always love reading your comments…current tv, especially the reality shows like you mention have dumb down America and made both sexes doofuses…i pray for the next generation!!!
Whoops, don’t know what a smuck is or maybe my spell check missed it, but I meant schmuck.
What an arrogant man!!!!!! Has he stopped to really comprehend the disgusting, criminal, and downright sociopathic things his character has done recently?? Damn right someone else NEEDS to have the last word with Victor Newman!!!!! Man or woman. Preferably it will involve a baseball bat, a rolled up persian rug and an anchor!! This is a disgusting perverted character who has been married 15 times. He has tamperes with a mentally ill woman’s meds. He blackmailed his own son witth the knowledge that he killed a child for his own personal gain. He has hired a lookalike of a deceased child to torment her mother who is still grieving. It sounds like Mr. Braeden actually believes that these actions are somehow justifiable and honourable. His character should be broken, isolated, and ostracized by all of Genoa City for his most recent reign of terror. This is not the first time he has used mentally ill women to accomplish his cruel goals. Women like Sharon are victimized and turned into punching bags and pariahs, while men like Victor and Sonny Corinthos get away with all of their crimes, and even find a way to make themselves look like victims. Mr. Braeden’s righteous indignation is almost as scary as Victor’s….and possibly moreao because he is real and Victor isnt!
God only knows what he sees when he looks in the mirror, because it doesn’t in any way reflect reality.
I hope some woman in his life – or on the show – tapes his mouth shut, for all our benefit.
Mr. Mumbles really should just not be allowed out without an attendant.
The part of what he said that I completely agree with is in regards to commercials – men are portrayed like idiots in most commercials, and the women as the all-knowing, long suffering heroes of the family. I get what he is saying and if I were a man, I would be insulted by most of the commercials I see too.
lol… he sounds just like his character!
Perhaps he is !!
MM always had big problems with EB when he would ad-lib or off-script , constantly ..
That is the main reason the two did not get along,, EB did it his way.. ad-lib or off-script his lines and that messed up MM acting his lines….
So Victor and Eric Braeden might be entwined..
Good for him, because he’s right and it is sickening. Look at the men on B&B… Liam in particular. He was dumped by Hope for his brother, and he’s still chasing her. Why? Bill was dumped by Brooke for Ridge, and he begs her to take him back every day. Why? A major secret floated around FC for weeks without CEO Eric knowing, and when he did find out he fired no one, and allowed a thief to keep his job as well. Why, because it would hurt Hope’s feelings? Brooke, Hope, Katie and now Quinn currently call all the shots on that series.
EVEN THO I DON’T LIKE NIKKI ,IT IS TIME SHE HAD THE UPPER HAND WITH THIS SOCIOPATH ,AND ITS TIME EB RETIRED,
Hat eot even say this but it seems the women are the doofuses. If I were Nikki or Brooke or Hope (or any Logan!) some of the others on screen (who these days seem to don a white dress and walk down the aisle as soon as man calls her name!), I would not keep running back to these very flawed men. Heck, girls, kick off those heels and RUN! I would love to see a storyline when the women says to the man it will not work again, so do not even try. She can say, “It’s my turn! And it will be my way!”
I agree with Mr. Braeden’s comments. Commercial TV portrays men as fools.
If the shoe fit’s !!! It’s about time men found out what it is like to play the dummy.
Eric Braeden is right, women ALWAYS get to call the shots in these divorces and then the guy ends up penniless! Look at that winch Heather Mills, she took Paul McCartney to the bank in their divorce. For what, how many Beatles songs did she ever write? She was a gold digger! I guess its okay because Paul has millions? What about the blue collar guy who gets taken to the cleaners because his wife wakes up one day and says their marriage is over. Eric is right, its damn time the guys get a chance and be treated as equals!
Just once I want to see E.B. go to jail for his games & the next time he calls Billy Billy Boy I would like to see Billy call him Bully Boy!
He is so right about the way men are portrayed on sitcoms.
Everybody Loves Raymond, The King Of Queens, etc.
Just two that came to mind. Debra and Carrie ruled the roosts
bigtime, and the men too often were “in trouble” with their
wives for one reason or another. Ugh.