As The World Turns
As My Stomach Turns- Thoughts on ATWT's demise!
I wanted to give it a few days to sink in before I sat down and posted the newest entry in Michael’s Blog, since the cancellation notice was handed down to As the World Turns. When the news broke earlier this week, I was in a state of shock. Not that the show wasn’t in danger as the next soap to go on the chopping block, but that it happened at this time. After speaking with ATWT’s publicity team, it apparently took them by surprise as well. They had only known for a few days and for some not till the day the axe fell.
As the World Turns was the very first soap I ever watched (so we can all blame my lifelong soap obsession because of it). It was my mother whose then favorite show revolved around Lisa Shea, Penny, Dr. Bob Hughes, Chris and Nancy Hughes, and Ellen and David Stewart. So she would be watching, and somehow I got sucked into Oakdale. I can still remember Ethel Remey’s, Alma Miller, mother to troublemaker Lisa, who when her daughter would do something obnoxious would yelp, “Well, Lisa!” Later came the likes of Carol and Jay Stallings, Grant and Joyce Coleman (remember Barbara Rodell?) and a young, Judith Chapman as evil Natalie Bannon.
But perhaps the greatest ATWT actor to come along (and who made every storyline work and all so effortlessly) was Larry Bryggman as Dr. John Dixon, Bob Hughes’s mortal enemy. I also will never forget Henderson Forsyth who was terrific as David Stewart, and then all of a sudden was the lead in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas on Broadway! At that time, I remember thinking, “Wow, soap actors do Broadway, too?” Of course later came Gillian Spencer and Kathryn Hays as Jennifer and Kim, respectively, and Colleen Zenk Pinter (our Babs) and I could go on and on. At one time the show (at the height of its popularity) was being spoofed by Carol Burnett every week on her variety show in a ditty called, “As the Stomach Turns”. I loved the parody on soaps; gazing long looks into the camera… and the organ music!
The show did experience another renaissance when Douglas Marland revitalized Oakdale and wrote some incredible storylines involving Julianne Moore as Frannie/Sabrina, and the Doug Cummings murder, etc. And he gave us Lily Snyder… and the soap world was introduced to a young Martha Byrne who for decades would be the show’s moral center and most beloved character. Along with Byrne came the casting of a well regarded Emmy winning soap actress Elizabeth Hubbard (Lucinda) who can make reading the phone book sound interesting. It was through Marland that soaps and ATWT got their first gay male character in Hank, even though it was too short lived… but for its time, a step ahead.
Of course, as happened with Guiding Light, the show was on a tremendous groundswell at the time of its cancellation with outstanding and complex performances. Over the past few months we have seen interesting stories that have featured current cast members Michael Park, Terri Colombino, Julie Pinson, Maura West, Trent Dawson, Jon Hensley, Noelle Beck and Van Hansis, etc.
I believe P&G and CBS thought that in lieu of the bad taste that was left in everyone’s mouth this past April when Guiding Light was given the heave-ho, and only six months to finish up, that they perhaps wanted to handle this news a bit differently. Well, at least ATWT got nine months… a little more time for actors, crew and production people to look for other work, or figure out what the next step in their lives would be. It’s still crummy.
Many of you read the statement by Jim Romanovich in regards to if there were to be a tribute for ATWT at next year’s Daytime Emmys. And as the person who handled the Guiding Light tribute for the broadcast, I would hope that with cooperation from P&G and ATWT that a beautiful tribute package could be made, and that this time, the powers-that-be would learn from their ways and give the soap and the fans it’s just due.
Am I sad? Yes. Very. Look around us. Soaps are becoming extinct! We will be down to six. I pray to God, I won’t be saying “down to five” come spring if One Life to Live (with all the rumors circulating) is next. It was so odd to hear Ellen Wheeler being named a director for ATWT and then have it be cancelled a few days later. Will she be spearheading their exit from television as she did with GL? What is this saying? That she knows how to handle a demise of a show?
And before I end, I have to address Luke and Noah, who without a doubt had become the most popular couple in Oakdale. How nice it was that a few years ago, that a soap incorporated a young gay male couple finding each other and a romance… something that had previously not been seen on daytime. Through all the good and the bad; the missteps, the lack of airtime, bedtime, kissing time, it still captivated for a time, the consciousness of an audience whose lives were not represented. As Guiding Light, its sister soap, had done with Otalia, it started something that needed to be continued, and thus media magnet, Crystal Chapell decided to take matters in to her own hands. Maybe now it’s the boys turn. Is the male Venice just around the corner starring Van and Jake?
As the World Turns goes into its final rotation from daytime to darkness now till September 2010. It will be interesting to see if people tune-in with a big publicity push as Guiding Light had done for its finale, or if knowing so far in advance that their story is ending, if viewers will just keep tuning-out.
I am so sorry to see another soap bite the dust. Is the writing on the wall for the rest of them? We can only hope not. I have watched ATWT for many, many years. In fact too many to mention. So, I have an allegiance to it, for all the times in made me feel better or got me through the day. I am not ashamed to say it! So, farewell ATWT and thanks for introducing me to soaps.
I only got into this show back in August, and it kills me that this can go by the wayside while dreck like All My Children still airs. I am especially disappointed because, while there have been many missteps along the way, the Luke and Noah storyline has been so beautiful. I hope to see more of Van Hansis in particular in the future.
Well said. Do you think there’s any hope that another network might pick it up?
With the cancellation of two major long-running shows, the writing on the wall is obvious for the rest of daytime drama. Those actors better start looking for work now rather than stay on a sinking ship. It’s sad for both the actors and their audiences. What a shame.
Years ago, I had an elderly “aunt”, really a family friend but was called “aunt” out of respect and love. Each day, when As The World Turns aired, she would sit in her rocker, with a cup of coffee and a snack or two on a small table at her side. Her sister, who was still in the workforce, came home one day, having forgotten one thing or another. “Sissy,” she called out as she usually did. My “aunt” didn’t answer. Her eyes were closed. A smile was on her face. She had made her journey into the light, watching the thing she loved most, “As The World Turns”.
There is a facebook group to support the show:
We won’t give up on As the world turns !
https://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=197554995905
I grew up watching this show as a little girl and have continued to watch it my entire life, as well as Guiding Light. It broke my heart for Guiding Light to end and again with As the World Turns draws to an end. I do not understand the reason for either show to stop. Do you know why? Isn’t there anything that can be done to stop this from happening??? I am now 60 and I had assumed I would watch those shows for the rest of my life. It is truly like a death in the family. On the days I am able and at home — it is so sad to me to not be able to enjoy something that I have watched for 40+ years. My parents are gone now and it was a comfort to me to enjoy the same shows that I had watched with them.
I can’t help but wonder…GL gets cancelled, now ATWT, with OLTL reportedly getting nearer the chopping block. What’s the one common thread between all three of these soaps? They all have gay characters. I’m not trying to be an alarmist or foster any kind of paranoia – it’s probably a coincidence, but something to think about…
So sorry that this show is ending. I watched Another World for many years so know how it feels to lose a show you watch daily, where you know the characters in and out, that you have invested so much time in through good stories and bad.
After AW ended I started tuning into ATWT and have watched off and on for 10 years. It’s sad that a 54 year old show will be ending and what’s even more sad is that overall, network audiences have dropped for all soaps. It seems more people are interested in trashy daytime television and talk shows like Jerry Springer than continuing daytime dramas.
But, it seems like audiences are down for nighttime shows as well. A hit show 20 years ago had a way higher audience than most primetime shows today.
It would be nice if another network would take a chance and try to rebuild their daytime soap lineup, adding ATWT.
Van Hansis is a talented actor and I’ll miss him very much!
UPDATED: Heartbreaking news to report this Sunday evening, July 13. Two-time Daytime Emmy nominee and beloved soap veteran and television actor Scott Bryce (ex-Craig Montgomery, As the World Turns) has died at the age of 68.
Lucie Arnaz Luckinbill, Bryce’s longtime friend and former co-star announced his death via her Facebook under an hour ago (in a post that has now been deleted, but see below). Arnaz expressed, “a wonderful actor, a beautiful man and a terrific husband and father, Scott Bryce, passed tonight. I am going to miss his eyes, his smile, his wit, his brain, his intelligence, his talent, his bravery, his laugh and his hugs. Dearest Jodi, dear Jackson, he’s watching over you now from a place of pure joy and will always be your guide. But, I hate these goodbyes. Rest in peace you marvelous, magnificent man”.
Previously, Bryce was diagnosed with Stage 3 esophageal and stomach cancer back in October of 2024. He had credited early detection as a vital part of his journey. He had underwent medical treatment and had since reported being “on the mend.”
Photo: JPI
SCOTT BRYCE’S RUN AS CRAIG MONTGOMERY WAS MEMORABLE
However, Lucie Arnaz shared on her Facebook post in the comment thread section when asked, that Scott’s cancer had returned. She has appeared in two projects with Bryce, the Indie film, The Pack and the TV series, Sons and Daughters.
Jackson Bryce, Scott’s beloved son, shared a beautiful tribute to his father after his passing on his Instagram where he shared that, “What began as stage three esophageal cancer eventually spread and became brain tumors that took his life away from him.”
Scott was the son of actor Ed Bryce, who was best-known for his role on the soaps as Bill Bauer on Guiding Light from 1959 to 1983. On As the World Turns, Scott had a significant run as Craig Montgomery, and at one point was initially paired on-screen with Meg Ryan (ex-Betsy Stewart). Bryce had appeared on the CBS soap opera from 1982–1991, 1993–1994, and 2007–2008.
AS THE WORLD TURNS CO-STAR PAYS TRIBUTE
On As the Word Turns, Scott’s on-screen romance was with Finn Carter, who played Sierra Esteban was a fan favorite for longtime viewers.
Carter expressed her grief on Instagram following the news of Bryce’s passing sharing, “My sadness knows no bounds. My gratitude for Scott knows even fewer. Scott was the best husband a woman could ask for. As an actor he was fearless, kind, generous and forever looking for ways to grow. And what a sense of humor! It is so difficult to write this as I can not stop crying . Scott , you were a gift that I did not deserve and one the world was freely given . All of my love to you – ah, just can’t stop crying. See you soon ( not too soon) and look forward to recalling our days on As The World Turns . You patiently taught me so much . XO”
It was during his initial run that Scott received two Daytime Emmy nominations for his performances as the manipulative Craig Montgomery. Bryce was nominated in the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in both 1986 and 1987.
Bryce exited ATWT in February of 2008 and by December of that year, Jon Lindstrom, (Beyond the Gates, General Hospital) was brought in as the final Craig from 2008-2010 as the soap went off the air. Over the years, Hunt Block and Jeffrey Meek also played the role of Craig.
FROM OAKDALE TO PRIMETIME
In addition, Scott appeared in numerous episodic comedy and drama series throughout his career with roles in: Murphy Brown, The Facts of Life, ER, Law & Order, Reba and Sex and the City and Blue Bloods, The Blacklist, Homeland, 30 Rock to name but a few. On the soaps, Bryce also appeared on One Life to Live in the role of a psychiatrist, Dr. Ed Crosby, from 2006-2007.
Scott is survived by his wife Jodi Stevens and their son, Jackson.
Michael Fairman TV will bring you further updates on this developing story.
Share your remembrances and condolences for Scott Bryce via the comment section below. But first check out these scenes featuring Scott in moments from As the World Turns with Cady McClain and Marie Wilson.
Photo: LArnaz Facebook
As The World Turns
‘As the World Turns’ and ‘The Young and the Restless’ Alum, Colleen Zenk Arrested for Third DUI Since 2010
UPDATED: Fan favorite, Colleen Zenk (ex-Barbara, As the World Turns, ex-Jordan, The Young and the Restless) found herself in trouble with the law when she was arrested for a DUI in Naples, Florida near where she lives.
The incident took place back on May 15 at 7:35 pm, when the actress was charged with a DUI resulting in damage to property or person of another with a with a blood alcohol level of 0.15 or higher, above the legal limit of 0.08. Both misdemeanors carry a bond of $1,000.
Soap Opera Network was the first to report the news after they had obtained records from County Sheriff’s Office and the County Clerk’s Office in Collier County.
Photo: JPI
Zenk posted bond on May 16, 2026, and court date that was set for June 10, 2026. Although she did not appear in person at the hearing after filing a Waiver of Appearance at Non-Mandatory Court Appearances, she pled not guilty through her attorney, with a continuance scheduled for July 29, 2026, for pre-trial.
Now, according to PEOPLE.com, Zenk’s attorney shared on June 30, “The charges are being defended. Ms. Zenk has not been convicted of anything. The truth will be played out in court.”
According to the arrest report, a witness told deputies they saw Zenk backing out of a handicap parking space near a Tommy Bahama store when her vehicle struck another parked car. The same witness alleged Zenk continued moving after the collision before being stopped a short distance away and claimed she appeared unsteady after exiting her vehicle.
In addition, after Zenk greed to perform field sobriety exercises, the arresting officer notated that Zenk showed multiple signs of impairment, including balance issues, swaying and difficulty following instructions.
Photo: JPI
PREVIOUS DUI TROUBLE
This is not the first time Colleen has been arrested for DUI. This is her third. She was first arrested in April 1, 2010, when she was pulled over by police in Wilton, Connecticut, for erratic driving and crossing into the oncoming lane of traffic, resulting in charges of DUI and improper lane usage. The second time was back on May 28, 2017. Zenk was charged with a DUI, marking her first offense and arrest in Collier County.
Zenk made her daytime debut as Barbara Ryan on As the World Turns in 1978 and remained with the series until its final episode in 2010. Viewers will recall, Barbara dancing with Henry Coleman (Trent Dawson) to “Last Dance” in the finale.
Along the way, Colleen earned three Daytime Emmy Award nominations for taking the once girl to a bad girl and eventually a fully evolved character. Then in November of 2023, Colleen made her triumphant return to daytime as the villainous and oft-kilter, Jordan Howard who had more than nine lives! The character was eventually killed off in 2025.
Jordan was the creation of departing head writer, Josh Griffith, who has brought Zenk and Hayley Erin as “Claire” to Y&R to shake things up for the Newmans.
Share your thoughts on the latest DUI charges for Colleen Zenk via the comment section below. Do you hope she gets the opportunity to appear on another soap? Let us know.
As The World Turns
ATWT Alum Martha Byrne Pays Tribute to Eileen Fulton: “The Original Soap Star Who Paved the Way for the Likes of a Susan Lucci or Andrea Evans”
Tributes and remembrances are pouring in for the the late Eileen Fulton, who passed away on July 14th at the age of 91. Fulton broke the soap opera mold back in the early 60’s when she was cast to play Lisa Miller on As the World Turns, who would turn out to be the first villiainess, vixen, and homewrecker of daytime television.
Fans of the soap loved to love to hate her for how she destroyed many lives in her quests to nab a husband; especially one she had set her sights set on. In fact, Lisa was married 8 times during the history of the show. Fulton was with ATWT on and off until the final year of the show in 2010.
Martha Byrne, who has been Fulton’s castmate for a time (Bryne played Lily Snyder from 1985 to 1989 and then again from 1993-2008 where she also played Rose D’Angelo), took to her account on x to share her thoughts on what Eileen meant to the genre, and also spoke on how Fulton handled not being as front and center on the soap operas as the years went by.
Photo: JPI
“What can I say about Eileen Fulton. The original soap star who paved the road for the likes of a Susan Lucci or Andrea Evans,” began Bryne. “Since Eileen started on ATWT when the show was live, there aren’t enough pieces of history for us to truly grasp the enormity of her stardom and presence in the entertainment business. I remember being so impressed that she was a writer. The best part was she would use real stories from behind the scenes and change the names. Maybe that was her way of giving the audience a wink to include them even more.”
Photo: CBS
Bryne went to share, “She (Eileen) loved her fans and she had many. I went to her one woman shows and the place was always packed. As the years went on and her role wasn’t as prominent as it had been she took it with class. I never heard her complain as many did who were frustrated they didn’t have a storyline. She was always a class act and a true pro who knew a storyline or another opportunity was only around the corner. She knew her value and was secure in herself. A national treasure who shaped the entire industry. Thank you Eileen. I’m sure there was a pink feather boa waiting for you just inside the pearly gates.”
So, what did you think about the sentiments shared by Martha on the legendary Eileen Fulton? Would you agree, as we have previously noted, that Lisa as played by Eileen, was really the prototype for all soap opera “bad girls” to follow? Did you appreciate the fact that while having a more diminished role over the last few decades of ATWT, Eileen took it in stride? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
What can I say about Eileen Fulton. The original soap star who paved the road for the likes of a Susan Lucci or Andrea Evans. Since Eileen started on ATWT when the show was live there aren’t enough pieces of history for us to truly grasp the enormity of her stardom and presence… pic.twitter.com/bN3skb2Rws
— Martha Byrne (@MarthaByrne10) July 20, 2025
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 16
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actress Drama Series
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actor Drama Series
Scott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
‘The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards’ Nominations Announcement Date Revealed: Who Will Be Going For Gold?
Randolph Mantooth, ‘Emergency!’ and ‘Loving’ Actor, Dies at 80
Steve Burton Returns to ‘General Hospital’ on Its 16,000th Episode: How Will Jason Be a Changed Man?
‘Daytime Emmy Nominations Special 2026’ Live on the Michael Fairman Channel
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Reaction to His Lead Actor Daytime Emmy Nomination, ‘It Was to Honor Leslie Charleson’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Jason Reconnects with Danny; Tristan Roberts Arrives in Port Charles, Lots of Nods to #16
GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers Promo: Jason’s Back, Drew Begins to Make His Move, Portia Goes Into a Labor
Scott Bryce, ‘As the World Turns’ Craig Montgomery, Passes Away at 68
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL Preview: Daphne’s Devastated, Steffy Finds Herself at a Crossroads with Finn
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