If you have been following two-time Daytime Emmy-winning actress, Martha Byrne’s (ex-Lily, As the World Turns) social media accounts or have been following news reports, Byrne is adamantly speaking out about charges and a conviction levied against her husband, former decorated NYPD sergeant-turned-licensed private investigator, Michael McMahon.
The couple share three children together and have been married for over 30 years. Last week, McMahon was preparing to go back to work. However, Michael was blindsided when a Brooklyn federal court convicted him and two others accused of stalking a New Jersey couple on behalf of China.
McMahon told the New York Post, that he felt betrayed by the Department of Justice (DOJ). Clarifying further, Michael felt he and his family with Martha Byrne where being made scapegoats in the DOJ’s first case against Operation Fox Hunt, which is the Chinese Communist Party’s anti-corruption campaign that targets Chinese nationals abroad. It also targets former government officials and others suspected of economic crimes against China.
In the case against McMahon, he was hired in fall of 2016 by what he believed was a translation company from New Jersey to do surveillance on a luxury New Jersey home occupied by a relative of Xu Jin and Liu Fang, and to use public records to find companies and other assets registered to the couple. He was then informed that Xu and Liu had had stolen money from a construction company, and the people who hired him wanted to find where the cash had gone. However, McMahon says what he was not told was that Xu was a former official in Wuhan, who had fled China amid allegations of corruption.
McMahon said that when he conducted surveillance as he had done on numerous other cases. However, what he did not know was that his work was used in a civil suit in New Jersey in 2018 against Xu and others by a Chinese construction group that alleged that they had embezzled millions from that company.
Things took a bad turn in October of 2020 when 12 federal agents surrounded McMahon and Byrne’s home. Michael was arrested, but it wasn’t your normal arrest, he detailed. McMahon didn’t think he needed a lawyer so he spoke to the FBI agents. He had wanted to help the government.
Photo: MBryneFacebook
Byrne shared, “He was being as transparent as he possibly could. Instead, they turned everything against him and made him look like the devil in court. I’ve never seen such dark forces trying to portray him as an unlawful person.”
McMahon was charged with violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act by working for the Chinese government without telling the State Department, and with conspiracy to commit interstate stalking.
Byrne answered one soap fan’s inquiry to clarify what exactly happened to her husband in a Facebook post. She expressed: “He was hired to find assets on a civil matter. never asked to do ANYTHING illegal. The FBI let the Chinese agents flee, who were operating some scheme separately and unbeknownst to my husband, so the FBI turned their attention to an innocent man to save face. They took legal work as a PI and deemed it criminal for their own purposes. This is VERY VERY scary for every US citizen.”
In the NY Post account, it details that the DOJ shifted its focus to Operation Fox Hunt, targeting private investigators across the country, including McMahon.
Currently Michael is not allowed to be a private detective until this case is overturned. He shared: “I didn’t harass or stalk anyone, and if I had been asked to do so, or if I had suspected that my clients worked for the Chinese Communist Party, I would have contacted the FBI right away and not proceeded with the job.”
Byrne expressed: “The DOJ knew this problem existed, that private investigators were being used, they knew the patterns well, but they communicated none of this until after Mike’s arrest … We are fighting to the end.”
McMahon’s lawyer will file a post-trial motion next month to overturn the conviction.
Photo: NATAS
On her Twitter account, Martha shared their lawyer’s, Lawrence Lustberg’s statement: “We are obviously very disappointed with today’s verdict and feel strongly that it is not consistent with the evidence in the case but more importantly, is not consistent with the truth. That truth is that Michael McMahon never had any idea that he was working for the Chinese Government. If he had, he would not have taken the job or done the work he did. His work in this case was the normal every day work of a private investigator and Mike’s conviction on the stalking counts, as a practical matter, criminalizes the work of private investigators in every case. We will file post-trial motions and, if necessary appeal, until all possible appeals and lawful avenues to challenge this verdict have been exhausted. And I believe that we will ultimately prevail because this conviction is a terrible injustice, one that I do not believe our legal system will allow to stand.”
What do you think about the conviction of Martha Bryne’s husband, Michael McMahon and by all accounts how he has been wrongly convicted? Comment below.
Disgusting. But that’s what this country is more than ever now.
Christine McCarthy
3 years ago
I have followed this story from the beginning and attended much of the trial. It’s a travesty what has been done to this family. They have spent their life savings trying to clear Michael’s good name he is 100% innocent I challenge and beg anyone that may be able to help to please come forward and help correct this outrageous injustice.
Violet Lemm
3 years ago
This is the first I have read of this seemingly Travesty of Justice.
All the stuff we get on this site that relates in no way to the Soaps, ok but if there was even a whisper of this , I sure did not see it. I feel very bad for Martha Byrne and her family, especially if these charges are all false and untrue.
Kevin Mulligan
3 years ago
Instead of ‘Reds under the bed’,now it’s……..?
Leah White
3 years ago
I’m not in the leased surprised that our government would do this. This man was made a scapegoat by the DOJ and the FBI. Along with others that are also TOTALLY INNOCENT! Now the question is, will our justice system fail them, or will they correct the sins of the DOJ and the FBI?? They need to remember that the American people are the people who employs them, and we are getting more dissatisfied with the way the government is not remembering they work for us.
Scot
3 years ago
This is so unfortunate but not surprising. This story is just more evidence that the DOJ and the FBI are corrupt and rotten to the core. The federal government is one giant sewer. No matter your political persuasion, Americans need to wake up and understand that permanent Washington is the true threat to our republic. They want us divided and fighting amongst ourselves because that is how unelected DC bureaucrats establish and maintain power. It’s all a “conspiracy theory” until it happens to you.
What is happening to her family is a travesty, and even though he’s innocent will scar them all for the rest of their lives. But Scot is right. WE the people haven’t had control over our federal government since we allowed J. Edgar Hoover carte blanche to destroy citizen’s lives; all initially done to to control the fallout from what happens when the government tries to impose it’s own concepts of “morality — prohibition! Since then WE have let our elected officials sell our votes to the highest bidder, lobbyists and PACS. From left-wing to right wing, regardless of affiliation, WE’ve let “special interests” determine our policies and this is what we’re left with: an honest American family screwed over by a messed up system that can’t be corrected because WE didn’t vote for term-limits or campaign funding, so WE have career politicians who aren’t going to vote themselves out of jobs, free health insurance, and loads of kickbacks, to protect the constituents they were elected to supposedly serve! That and lifetime Supreme Court justice appointments have screwed this country royally!
I think Martha ought to use every soap connection she has to put her family’s case front and center and out in the visual as well as social media. We should write editorials in support of her family and make it not only NOT in the it’s best interests to keep pursuing this matter, but also forcing them to realize you can’t throw honest people under the bus to “save face” when there is no face to save.
This kind of thing happens every day. The United States has not been a Republic for a very long time. It is a corporation. Our Social Security numbers are account numbers. The political parties, (Democratic, and Republican), they are all the same. Everyone has his own agenda and it’s not to protect the rights of the American people. They divide us with race wars, wealthy vs working class, homosexual vs heterosexual, feminism, etc.. They weaponize Americans. (THE CAPITAL)… you get the point. Good old fashion family values and morals are basically non- existent. There is a war being washedvery against our very souls. Our best weapon is knowledge. Knowledge is power!!! People need to wake up and do your own research.
whynot
3 years ago
These types of articles don’t belong on this site. Just look at the comments here to understand why: people with virtually no knowledge of the case have determined that he’s innocent. THAT is the real danger here.
Rodd
3 years ago
I think it’s awful. I hope that the truth wins out at that those responsible for this injustice will be held accountable instead.
Momo
3 years ago
Very sad. He definitely should not have spoken to police without a lawyer.
Tracy
3 years ago
This is very disturbing . I feel so bad for everyone involved . I am not surprised to hear something like this taking place . The corruption is obviously very clear to see . I pray this all gets overturned and there is a Good ending . And that you can get your legal fees all back .
Tracy Connelly
3 years ago
Your in my Prayers for Justice to Prevail !!
Kathy O'Sullivan
3 years ago
We should all be aware of how corrupt the DOJ is, protecting criminals and exploiting the innocent. This is a complete misuse of justice, and those involved should face penalties for false imprisonment and corruption. My prayers are with Martha, Mike, and the family.
Randie
3 years ago
many are being wrongly convicted, and it makes me angry that he is one of them. Our DOJ is politically motivated.
OffGridCokorado
2 years ago
Maybe Vivek will plant the seed to de-fund FBI. The institution isn’t trusted any more. FBI is NOT trustworthy. effing liars
I wanted to wish you both good luck, and keep fighting for justice! Being transparent in talking with the police, should mean you are NOT Guilty! I pray the charges are dropped!
Scott Bryce’s beloved wife Jodi Stevens Bryce announced on Instagram that a memorial service for her husband will take place this coming weekend and will be able to viewed via livestream for family members, friends and fans who loved the actor, personally and professionally.
As first reported by Michael Fairman TV, Scott passed away on Sunday evening, July 13 at the age of 68. His son, Jackson Bryce took to Instagram to make an official announcement of his father’s passing sharing, “What began as stage three esophageal cancer eventually spread and became brain tumors that took his life away from him.”
As the World Turns fans know that Bryce was smash hit in the role of Craig Montgomery, a part he played for several runs on the CBS soap opera from 1982–1991, 1993–1994, and 2007–2008. Along the way, Bryce earned two Lead Actor Daytime Emmy nominations in 1986 and 1987.
Previously, Scott had been diagnosed 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 during a conversation on The Locher Room in July of 2025. At that time, Scott had shared he had undergone medical treatment and had since reported being “on the mend.”
Jodi Stevens Bryce’s message for those who want to view Scott’s ‘Celebration of Life” shares, “To our dear family and friends, both near and far, thank you for surrounding our family with so much love, kindness, and prayer. If you’d like to join us in celebrating Scott’s beautiful life, his memorial service will be livestreamed on Saturday, July 25 10am ET.” She signed the message, “With love, Jodi and Jackson.”
Photo: JPI
AS THE WORLD TURNS CAST SHARES REMEMBRANCES OF SCOTT BRYCE
Over the last few weeks heartfelt condolences on the loss of Scott have poured including from: Finn Carter (ex-Sierra, ATWT), Martha Byrne (ex-Lily, ATWT), Melanie Smith (ex-Emily, ATWT) and many more.
In fact, Bryne made note to TV Insider following the loss of As the World Turns co-star, of just how memorable Bryce’s work with the late Elizabeth Hubbard’s work as Lucinda was, and their unforgettable pairing; “The energy between them, their dynamic, all the play, fun, and the intensity just jumped through the screen. Most actors wouldn’t go down to set just to watch other performers. They’d stay in their rooms. I would go and just watch them work.”
The livestream will be broadcast courtesy of the The Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, Connecticut.
We all loved Scott Bryce and his powerful performances as Craig on As the World Turns and his body of work in primetime television as well. Now, it’s time to say our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones. Comment below.
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.
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.
