Breaking News
British Soap Awards Institute Gender-Neutral ‘Leading Performer’ Category for Upcoming Nominations & Fan Voting
The UK’s British Soap Awards are back after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and with it will come some changes as revealed by ITV who hosts the ceremony.
This year when the nominations are announced on April 22nd, the usual Best Actor and Best Actress prizes will be consolidated into one category – Best Leading Performer. That means that cast members from EastEnders, Coronation Street, Emmerdale, The Doctors, and Hollyoaks no matter the gender will compete against one another if nominated.
The Best Leading Performer category will be one of three that is decided on by fan voting. For full details on categories and voting please go to www.britishsoapawards.tv from next Tuesday 19th April at 10am – the updated 2022 information will be available on the website from this date once the long list opens.
In addition to Best Leading Performer, Best British Soap and Best Family, will also be voted on by the fans. The remaining 14 categories will be decided on a vote from a ‘panel of experts’
Look for the British Soap Awards to return to UK TV in June.
So, what do you think? Do you like the idea of both actors and actresses competing against each other in the Leading Performer category? Would you like to see more gender-neutral categories in award shows here in the U.S.? Comment below.
This is wokeness on steroids!!! Look, I am all for gender equality and inclusion. I understand the need to include trans persons in every part of life, including the British Soap Awards show. A better route would be simply as follows: if a trans person — now I will attempt to use the correct pronouns — is deemed worthy of nomination, then simply include that person in the actor category if the trans person considers himself a male or include that person in the actress category if the trans person considers herself a female. Problem solved…
James
Your solution seems very viable for trans performers. The SAG Awards years ago went with “male actor” and “female actor”. It could be argued that terminology is more excluding than the traditional actor and actress categories of the major award shows.
The Grammys removed gender-specific categories years ago, but television and film are different media entirely. The Daytime Emmys have combined the previously gender-specific guest performance and younger performer categories. It would be peculiar to see one lead category where Maurice Benard competes with Maura West.
Combining the categories could just lead to increased competition and jealousy amongst cast members.
Jamesj75 and Steve: I agree with your analyses. There’s a time when inclusion becomes illogical and doesn’t mean inclusion at all except for those who hold a specific opinion. But you can’t go by me.. I object to unisex bathrooms. If a trans person chooses to use a certain bathroom, fine. But I shouldn’t be forced to use a unisex facility. That doesn’t sound inclusionary to me.
Steve, thank you for your reply. I appreciate your expansion and clarity on these points. I agree with your points about combining categories leading to increased competition and jealousy. If combining the genders would mean fewer nominees, it wouldn’t be fair to limit those who might be considered as nominees. I hadn’t paid attention to the Daytime Emmys guest and younger performer categories. Further, with regard to the Daytime Emmys, it seems that the awards aren’t as meaningful with just four soaps on the air. But that’s certainly not the fault of those still working in the industry.
My understanding is that all performances will be judged on simply just that…overall performance, instead of best male/best female, it’s simply who knocked it out the park period. We’re so use to the actors separated by sex at every awards show, that what makes logical sense appears mind blowing. I think it’s smart.
davlestev1, thank you for your reply and viewpoint. I certainly get what you’re saying (same as with Soaphound), but my mind is still blown. Then, again, I don’t like that the Oscars can have as many as 10 Best Picture nominees when it was traditionally five. Change comes hard for some of us, even when we appreciate and practice diversity and acceptance.
I think this is a strange idea frankly. As Steve notes above, it puts [male actor] and [female actor] against each other; and doesn’t it reduce the number of awards. Don’t like this at all.
I do enjoy voting in the Brit Awards (when I remember)
Bloody ridiculous Gender awards why, ?? Keep it best actor and best actress why change it after all these years?
There is no need for gender neutrality. There should be separate ctegories for best actor and best actress. People are getting ridiculous trying to wipe out any differences between people.
You think ??? Hey let’s strip naked go to a park get down on all fours and pretend we are a dog! Can’t wait until this stupid insanity is shown the door . Women have a vagina Men have a penis deal with it!!
LOL, Kay. But I wonder how long before even those basic distinctions are denied, relabeled, neutered, or banned altogether. I hope I’m long in the grave before that time!
Kay
I agree with you. So sick of all this crap. All these people so unsatisfied with what they were born with, so they just switch it out. As per your last sentence, they can’t deal with what they have so just get a new and improved model. Also these so called greedy, etc,etc doctors ready and willing to load up kids with hormones to help their transition.
I agree, Deborah. The worst part for me is that if I disagree about this topic, I’m labeled a bigot, a hater, or worse. When, in reality, it’s often the opposite. I’ve never labeled anyone the way I’ve seen folks who share our view label us as “haters”. Sorry but two wrongs don’t make a right. Unless I’m “wrong” about that, too.
Breaking News
2026 Daytime Emmy Awards: ‘Extra’ Partners with NATAS for Pre-Ceremony Red Carpet Stream; Week of Segments Leading to Ceremony and Post-Coverage
The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) announced on Thursday that the syndicated entertainment news series, Extra will be its partner for exclusive coverage of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards being held on Friday, October 30 at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.
The 2026 Daytime Emmys as previously reported can be seen streamed via the The Emmys,YouTube channel, via watch.theemmys.tv, as well as on the official Emmys app, available for phones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Here’s a breakdown of the pre, during and post Daytime Emmys coverage via Extra below!
Beginning Monday, October 26, Extra will feature five nights of dedicated Daytime Emmys segments leading up to the ceremony, giving fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the award show.
In addition, Mona Kosar Abdi, Weekend Host & Senior Correspondent with Extra will host the pre-show red carpet stream on the @TheEmmys Youtube channel.
Extra host and Dancing with the Stars judge, Derek Hough will present during the ceremony, and correspondent Terri Seymour will also host coverage throughout the evening.
Extra’s weekend edition (A WEEK FOLLOWING the ceremony) will features notable red carpet moments, winner reactions, and exclusive footage from the night’s festivities.
The entertainment news program is also nominated for three Daytime Emmy Awards going into the ceremony.
So, what do you think of Extra’s scheduled upcoming coverage of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards starting on Monday? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) revealed on Thursday, the lineup of presenters for 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards taking place on Friday, October 30, 2026, at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, California.
The ceremony will stream live on the NATAS YouTube channel at YouTube.com/@theemmys and watch.TheEmmys.tv.
Scheduled to present from the current soaps are: Katelyn MacMullen (Willow, General Hospital), Delon de Metz (Zende, The Bold and the Beautiful), James Preston (Nick, The Bay), Paul Telfer (Xander, Days of our Lives), Tamara Tunie (Anita, Beyond the Gates) and Susan Walters (Diane, The Young and the Restless).
Photo: NATAS
In addition soap alums, Crystal Chappell, Lesli Kay, Joe Lando, Eva LaRue, who is also a nominee this year, A Martinez, Juliet Mills, and Alicia Leigh Willis, will also be on hand to present.
The ceremony which celebrates nominated lifestyle programs and dramas will also include presenters: Eva zu Beck (Superskilled with Eva zu Beck), Danielle Chang (Lucky Chow), Sunny Hostin (The View), Derek Hough (Extra), Pati Jinich (Pati’s Mexican Table), Star Jones (Divorce Court), Michael Jr. (Stand Up and Do Something), Judge Greg Mathis (Mathis Court with Judge Mathis), Keke Palmer (Glam Through the Ages), Nischelle Turner (Entertainment Tonight), and Andrew Zimmern (Andrew Zimmern’s Wild Game Kitchen).
The 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards will bring together an exciting mix of presenters representing the full spectrum of daytime television,” said Adam Sharp, President & CEO of NATAS. “From familiar faces in daytime drama to the personalities and creative voices behind talk shows and lifestyle programming, this year’s lineup reflects the breadth of talent that makes daytime so special. We look forward to celebrating the people who continue to shape the genre.”
Matthew Hoffman (Love Island USA, Cheap A$$ Beach Houses) will serve as the ceremony’s Voice of God, bringing his signature comedic narration to the evening’s celebrations. As previously announced, Lifetime Achievement honoree Genie Francis (Laura, General Hospital) will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by her husband, Jonathan Frakes.
So, what do you think about the list of presenters for the 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards? Let us know who you are looking forward to seeing via the comment section below.
Congratulations are in order for three-time Emmy winner, Tom Pelphrey (ex-GL and ATWT) and his fiancée Big Bang Theory star, Kaley Cuoco! The couple welcomed their second baby daughter together on October 12, and revealed they named the little bundle of joy, Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey.
Tom and Kaley shared the news via their Instagram accounts on Wednesday with some adorable baby pics. Cuoco captioned the photo“🎀Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey🎀. 💖10/12/26💖. There are no words to describe this feeling once again. What a blessing.
Cuoco added, “We are so grateful for the crazy wild up and down journey that brought us to our little Philo! Family officially complete 😭Time to bring Matilda’s baby home! 😂💕”
Photo: KCuoco IG
BABY MAKES FOUR
Next, Kaley shared her love for the father of her children, exclaiming, “Tom Pelphrey, life exploded the minute we met, and the gifts keep coming. I love you forever , girl daddy! 💘.”
Philomena now joins big sister, Matilda mwho was born in 2023, as part of the Pelphrey/Cuoco family! Tom and Kaley began dating in 2022 and became engaged in 2024.
Daytime fans first saw the talented actor on Guiding Light as Jonathan Randall, the son of Reva Shayne (Kim Zimmer). Tom won two Daytime Emmys for his memorable performances during his run from 2004-2009.
He later played Mick Dante on As the World Turns from 2009-2010, before heading to work in primetime and motion pictures. Last month, Pelphrey one the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in HBO’s Task.
TOM PELPHREY CELEBRATES EMMY WIN AND NEW DAUGHTER WITHIN A MONTH OF EACH OTHER
After winning his Emmy, the expectant dad told E! News, “We’re both so excited. Our daughter’s excited. We’ll see how it goes when it actually gets there.” Tom added, “The things that are new and the things that feel like not a big deal this time. But mom and baby are healthy, so God willing, that keeps up, and we’re thrilled,” added the actor.
Pelphrey took to his own Instagram and said on the birth of his second daughter, “Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey. Another miracle. Welcome to our family youngest queen! Kaley you showed up in every way as a partner and a mom even when you weren’t feeling your best- you’re a CHAMPION. The girls and I would be lost without you. Thank God for the gift of this family and these girls.”
Jumping in to the comment thread to congratulate Tom and Kaley were Beyond the Gates star Ashley Jones (Heather), Dave Annabelle, Martha Plimpton, Alyssa Milano and many more.
Share your congrats and well-wishes to Tom, Kaley, Matilda and their new addition to the family, little Philomena via the comment section below.
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2026 Daytime Emmy Awards: ‘Extra’ Partners with NATAS for Pre-Ceremony Red Carpet Stream; Week of Segments Leading to Ceremony and Post-Coverage
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