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Blake Berris Steps Into The Role Of Spinelli On General Hospital!

Courtesy/Facebook

Courtesy/Facebook

One of Days of our Lives most memorable performers, Blake Berris (Ex-Nick Fallon), is returning to daytime in a surprising recast.  Berris had teased his fans on social media that something was coming that would bring him back to the soaps, but he did not expand on that leading to much speculation.

Now word on Christmas Eve from Soap Opera Digest confirms the rumors that Berris will temporarily step into the role of General Hospital’s Damian Spinelli. The role has always been played by Bradford Anderson.

Apparently due to a scheduling conflict, Anderson was unavailable for the upcoming latest return for Spinelli, so enter the talented Mr. Berris!

Blake will appear in several episodes starting in January on the ABC soap opera.

So, what do you think of Berris taking on the role of Spinelli?  Comment below!

 

 

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I want to say miscast, but will wait to officially pass judgement!

Same here…

I will say it now; NO A THOUSANDS TIMES NO!!

On the contrary! These short term recasts are proving to be very popular. I can’t think of really anyone else with a soap background whe could step into Spinelli’s shoes! Remember Nick was a lovable goofy nerd too until the writers inexplicably made him a psychopath.

Yeah, that is why I am reserving some judgement here… I am not sure I could see anyone take Anderson’s spot, but if anyone can it would be him… we will see!

SO TRUE .HE’S EXPERIENCED ,maybe longer,maxxie shouldn’t be without her child most of the year because B
radford is busy and lives far away

C’mon guys..
The man is only stepping in, not staying..
He is temporary through January, no big deal..

You have a good point. Blake Berris is a great actor. I actually wish they would have casted him in a long-term role instead. I was just having a rough time seeing someone else in the role besides Anderson, but I will give him a chance… like I said if anyone can do it he can!

I think this is actually good news for Brad Anderson. If the writers feel a need for Spinelli’s role so much that they have to cast someone else short-term, I think that says overall, they see Spinelli’s role being key on a long-term basis. Otherwise, they’d write around it. Take it as a good sign for Brad. He’ll be back.

Nothing personal, but not even close!!!

It was so disappointing to see him today at Maxi’s wedding. Andersen should have done this

Did he even study the part before going on. He was nothing like Spinelli. He showed absolutely none of Spinelli’s endearing qualities.

he’s a cutie, just like bradford, but lets keep the original, no recasting, i hate recasting, this guy is cute he could of played someone else on the show he looks like a keeper.

Well at least it’s just temporary. Blake is too handsome for the role and may lack the quirky that makes Spinelli, Spinelli. Nó disrespect to Blake he is an amazing actor having watched him on Days.

Blake Berris…. is in a whole league unto himself

he is a remarkable actor… along with his – extremely – GOOD LOOKS

because I miss him so much @DAYS…

I would welcome him in any capacity

I hope it’s for a long run.

the thing is… is Maxie is just not the same character, of late.

Spinelli oddities with Maxie ditz equaled

I don’t know that it would be acceptable , today.. as it has run its course?

so… seeing a new spin on OOMPH hot me out…. Blake Berris IS back

@GH – keeper

WELL SAID!!

I agree whole heartedly, Blake Berris was one of the best actors ever to be on Days. If even just short termed, I think Blake can pull it off with style.

Now, this is definitely exciting news! And this is definitely a reason to tune in!

Solid No on this. Granted I saw Blake at Nick on DOOL and actually thought he did a great job, but there are some shoes not capable of being filled.

For goodness sake. Why bother recasting for someone who is only on once in awhile?! Just rewrite the script to excuse Spinelli from whatever plot GH had in mind. This is so stupid.

agree, they could of introduce another tech geek, with this actor, surely spinnellii is not the only tech geek in the world.

Maybe there was some sort-of a last-minute scheduling conflict, and they had already wrote the character of Spinelli into their scripts and TPTB didn’t really know if Bradford was going to have a last-minute hick-up so because of time constraints and scheduling constraints, too… they felt they had to find somebody to fill the characters shoes briefly fast.

I’m not saying this is exactly what happened, because I don’t know for sure really, but just a guess / predilection as to why they would need to put somebody else (i.e., Blake Berris) into the role of Spinelli for a short-term stint.

If Bradford Anderson is not available GH should keep Spinelli out of the script til Bradford Anderson IS available.

agree!

GH should just keep Spinelli out of the script til Bradford Anderson is available.

Absolutely agree!! The recast of Jason isn’t working for me either. Jason isn’t Jason!!

There is no one that can play spinelli but Bradford. I understand this but can’t wait for Bradford to return.

Blake Berris is an excellent actor…the best of the best. If Bradford is not available GH could not find a better replacement. I hope GH fans understand the situation and give Blake a break. He is one of the finest actors I’ve seen on Daytime. Remember, Bradford can’t be there. Be kind.

I agree. 100% Agree

I’m always good with anything new and different.
Blake is only temporary through January, but still something different.
And by his picture he looks the part..

((Bradford will alway be Spinelli )

No one can replace Spinnelli

Would love for him to make the character compelling instead of irritating!! Please oh please!

Bradford was on the plane to LA to film several episodes of GH…and got a call from his agent to tell him he landed a recurring role on Homeland which films in NY…so they really had no choice but to recast for Spinelli due to taping deadlines.

How wonderful, will have to watch for his episodes when they air! Spinelli only for me!

Wow! That is so cool for Bradford! Congrats!

blake berris is a phenomenal actor – he should have no problem with portraying the character of spinelli – i am looking forward to his scenes……………..

I am happy with this decision because I get to see Blake again who was outstanding as Nick on DAYS. He is only around temporarily so I can totally understand Bradford not being able to do a spin on GH and Blake filling in for him is ok with me. I am looking forward to seeing Spinelli and Stone Cold and Goddess together again!!!

He is a fine actor. I look forward to seeing him fill in for BA.

no no no no no, only one Spinelli!! I will be ok as long as it is temp. but Bradford IS Spinelli!

I can live with “temporary”.
Bradford Anderson IS Spinelli.

As long as its only a temporary recast I can deal with it, as Bradfod Anderson is Spinelli. Since he wasnt available, I can deal with a short recast.

Do without the character until Bradford can return.

There is no replacement for him!! These writer’s not only changed the show…This isnt “one life to live” thats how that show ended!!! To much long writing with no story…OR dragging something out that leads to nothing …NO one can even fill in for him!!!

I think he works well in that role; Nick was originally a huge nerd when he came to Salem and was with Chelsea- not that either Nick or Spinelli stayed that way, and not that either actor didn’t prove how much more range they possessed than a typecast. But I’m still glad it’s only a few episodes.

COLD SHOWER LOL…WHEN I SEE HIM EVERYTHING I POST WOULD BE CENSORED SO I’LL STOP NOW!!

He could be playing the mailman who cares as long as THAT IS ONSCREEN

I think that as sporadically as Spinelli is used, they should have waited until he was available. There is only one Spinelli

Only one Spinelli! Damn ABC

I agree!!!!

No…there’s only one Spinelli.

As long as it’s temporary!

Acting chops aside, I can’t believe how many posts talk about how “great looking” this guy is. I must be missing something. I guess beauty really IS in the eye of the beholder. His former cast-mates Robert Scott Wilson, Eric Martsolf, and Casey Moss…those are great looking guys. Maybe I’m getting old.

Agree 100%. Handsome is clearly subjective. That said, Blake is a phenomenal actor. Could be a newly discovered Cassidine spawn or, younger Jerome.

Must say I’m happy for Bradford who is definitely a great actor but, also an all around entertainer, singer, musician, comic…love him – soooo glad he is getting other work. GH has been downright abusive to him. No way should Bradford be sitting on the sidelines and goofy one note, never maturing Maxie be without her daughter. Jason is nobody’s P.I. Comeonnnn…

I loved him on days so much but its going to be hard to see him as spinelli I cant imagine anyone else bit Bradford!

Blake the temp Spinelli and Molly was a temp Maxie! xoxo

Good or Bad, I am not judging Blake, but the key word here is::

” TEMPORARY”.

agree temporary PLEASE

NO, NO, NO, and NO.

THERE ARE SOME CHARACTERS YOU CANNOT REPLACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey..
It’s something new, enjoy it ..
Different is good…. It’s just for some scenes during January ..

No one can replace Bradford SORRY to hear this!

I’m definitely willing to give Blake a chance. I’m always open with all recasts, whether they’re permanent or in this case temporary. They all deserve a chance to get used to the role and get comfortable on a new show, before people start judging them. Of course, that won’t stop some people that can’t help themselves. I don’t watch Days, but I’ve heard nothing but good things about him. Plus he’s easy on the eyes, which is always a plus in my book, lol.

As long as it is only temporary, I’ll enjoy seeing Blake again. No one can really replace Brad Anderson as Spinelli because he is one of a kind. Just sorry he had a scheduling conflict.

Recast was not even necessary and is a dumb idea. No one will even equate the character with Spinelli in a short run to begin with. Just like Stabile was never Nicholas just a random character in a random, would never happen, story with Ava.

If they needed Maxie’s daughter at the wedding they could just have written it as Spinelli was in the middle of something and had Ellie bring her.

Dumb

I think it’s a good move. He’s a great actor. Remember no one wanted anyone but Michael Muhney to play Adam on Y&R but when Justin Hartley took the role we loved him as much as Michael even though they are completely different actors. If Bradford is unwilling to come back or only come back once in awhile then why shouldn’t a great actor that needs the work have the role. Blake is a very capable actor and I’d like to see more of Spinelli. We can fall in love with Blake’s performance too.

I’m Ok with whatever needs to happen. He has such star power, maybe he could be a different character, like Spin’s mentor or go the other direction, his protege and this guy fills in while Spin is out of commission. Or half brother? Speaking of recasts can we please get Nick Stabile back on the screen in 2017?! He was a terrific fill in for TC and thought he brought something special to the show. Loved him with Ava.

How about as a recast Dillon……..

This man is PRETTY! So much eye candy on this show lately.

I think if Blake takes off Bradford is history! I am for this. Spinelli needs to grow up and expand as a character. Bradford has been a one trick pony!

I really miss Blake Berris on Days. He played the villain so well, and he was definitely eye candy. I’ll never forget when he was naked except for a valentine heart covering him. I miss those lips!

I love Blake Berris, and Days hasn’t been the same since he left. Why did he agree to do soaps again if he left Days though? They didn’t have to kill his character then. I have so many questions. Why even bother to recast Spinelli? Why not make Berris a new character, or maybe even another legacy character? I never liked Spinelli that much. Plus, how am I going to deal with Spinelli going from cute to ‘damn he’s hot’ overnight? I hope Maxie will say stuff like, ‘Your time away has done you good,’ lol. Why do they always get Days stars to replace Gh stars temporarily? Well, glad to see Blake.

Keep calm and Enjoy!!! He is wonderful , i hope he stays long term.!wayyyy better with Maxie than old spice opps i meen old Spinelli

I don’t understand the drama. Soaps have been recasting roles with new actors for a long time. Give the guy a chance.

I am excited personally I have never been a Bradford fan.

If this is a couple of episodes ~ no big deal.

Bradford created this character, no one could ever ‘take over ‘ for Spinelli.

Spinelli is a one- in -a-million creation of a most talented, gifted actor and a production and writing team that could use this creation for laughter and later heartbreak in great storytelling.

I just think the way Bradford addresses it was magnificent… he was in the wrong, he took the blame for the inability to fulfill the obligation and as a professional, you can imagine how that must have gone over…not. This is a win win for everyone.. first it takes the pressure off of Bradford and the long standing relationship he maintains with GH and we also have the opportunity to see Blake use his acting chops…. I assume it’s for the Maxie / Nathan wedding and there IS no explanation as to why Spinelli would not be there….

HOWEVER… while we are speaking of Maxie, has anyone noticed it appears she is covering her face again? Hope that rash has not returned …anyone notice that?

Also wouldn’t it be CRAZY if that actress that replaced Maxie for a few months had to take over for the wedding scenes at GH? She and Blake worked together on DOOL… and quite the history!

So the “psycho” for DOOL will be playing our beloved Spinelli….well I wish him luck. 🙂

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It’s over! After 148 days, the 2023 Writers strike will go down as the second longest in WGA union history, only a labor stoppage in 1988 was longer.

The strike will officially come to end on Wednesday at 12:01am PT.  This was due to a vote from the guild’s leadership that now has authorized its over 11,500 members to return to work.

That means: pitching and selling scripts, taking meetings, responding to notes, writers’ rooms opening up again, and more, can now restart.

Photo: JPI

The WGA committee shared that the vote, “Allows writers to return to work during the ratification process, but does not affect the membership’s right to make a final determination on contract approval.” However, WGA East and West voted unanimously to lift the “restraining order” on Tuesday.

As the negotiators shared, the end of the strike doesn’t mean that the tentative agreement that the union reached with producers on Sunday night is a surefire thing: Union members still need to vote to ratify the contract. Union leadership announced on Tuesday that will take place between October 2nd and October 9th.

Photo: JPI

However, SAG-AFTRA still remains on strike. So, even with the writers returning to work, many productions can’t move forward without their principal actors and performers.

So soap fans, how do you feel about this news for your favorite shows? Glad that the head writers and their writing teams will be back at work as soon as this week from Days of our Lives, General Hospital, and The Bold and the Beautiful? Y&R’s Josh Griffith, who previously had gone Fi-Core during the 2008 strike, remained at the top rated show during the last several months.

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WGA and AMPTP Reach Tentative Deal to End Writers Strike

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This is welcome news to the television, streaming and motion picture industry that after five months of a strike has put the 2023-2024 TV season in deep water.

In a statement, the Writers Guild shared, “We have reached a tentative agreement on a new 2023 MBA (Minimum Basic Agreement), which is to say an agreement in principle on all deal points, subject to drafting final contract language. We can say, with great pride, that this deal is exceptional — with meaningful gains and protections for writers in every sector of the membership.”

As the deal goes through its final stages, the writers are still technically on strike, but picketing outside studios and shows has now been suspended.

Photo: ABC

Among the writers’ demands that they fought for are: higher residuals from streaming shows, minimum staff sizes to prevent the use of “mini rooms” and protections from the use of AI.  The hope within the entertainment industry is that the new deal for the WGA will move along a new contract for SAG-AFTRA (actors) with the AMPTP.  As of Monday, SAG-AFTRA is still on strike.

Photo: JPI

As for your favorite soap operas, during the strikes, the shows were written by non-union writers or “fi-core” writers who gave up their union benefits in order to continue working.

The next steps in process will see the WGA negotiating committee vote on “whether to recommend the agreement and send it on to the WGAW Board and WGAE Council for approval,” tentatively scheduled for Tuesday.  Another vote by the board and council could lift the strike “restraining order”and allow scribes to “return to work during the ratification vote”.

So, are you happy to know that the writing teams from your favorite soaps are about to return to work and helm the scripts and the vision of the shows? Comment below.

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Shore previously took to social media and on X shared a side-by-side of him and Simmons. Accompanying the post, Pauly expressed: I’ve noticed the reactions to me playing #RichardSimmons in a biopic. I heard he’s living in Big Bear. We’ve been playing phone tag (yes, he has a phone). I’m trying to make it happen, you guys. In the meantime, hit up all the big producers. I’ll see you at @TheAcademy 2025!”

However, TMZ’s sources are reporting on Saturday that Simmons is not in favor of Shore playing him in a film or anyone else, or any biopic on his life.

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Photo: ABC

Born Milton Teagle “Richard” Simmons, he became part of the public conscious back in the 70’s and 80’s with exercise studios and the ability to help his clients lose weight; many of them were celebrities. Simmons himself, admitted to at one time to being overweight, and getting into fitness helped him maintain a healthy living style and he wanted to help others.

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What would you think of a Richard Simmons biopic and if it included some moments in front of the camera and behind the scenes of what went down when he appeared on GH? Do you think it will ever happen given Simmons current position on the matter? Let us know in the comment section.

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