Days Of Our Lives
DAYS Head Scribe, Ron Carlivati, Shares On Marlena’s Possession 2.0: “We Decided John Needs To Get On To This Sooner Than He Did In The Original, Because That’s What The Audience Would Expect”
As viewers of NBC’s Days of our Lives are watching the revisiting of the classic possession storyline revisited with its 2021 version 2.0, the stage is being set for plenty of devilish drama, now that good doc, Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) is once again in the grips of evil.
We have already seen her with yellow eyes, conjuring up some demonic plans, and of course, the devil trying to pull the wool over the eyes of Marlena’s husband, John Black (Drake Hogestyn).
Photo: NBC
Back in the 1994/95 version of this storyline, Father John emerged and exorcised the demon from Marlena, so he knows a thing or two about being possessed, and the horrors it caused to Marlena, and the town of Salem 25 years ago, and as we have seen John is very, very concerned about all this talk of Marlena being possessed by the devil from the script that Johnny (Carson Boatman) is set to make into a film on Sami’s life story.
Current Days of our Lives head writer, Ron Carlivati, spoke with Soap Opera Digest in their latest issue on newsstands now, about his plans and the creation of the 2021 possession storyline. Ron revealed that John is not going to be in the dark for long, sharing: “John has been through this, so the devil isn’t going to be able to pull the wool over his eyes the way he did the first time.”
Carlivati also added: “Even though all soap opera stories, I would argue, depend on some characters being a little bit dumb, in this case, we decided John needs to get on to this sooner than he did in the original because that’s what they audience would expect. Look for the story to move along at a pretty good clip. We are not rushing, anything by any means – we are having so much fun with the story, but it was important to us that John not look stupid here so he starts to suspect something is wrong with her pretty soon.”
So, are you glad that John will not be completely dumped? Will Father John return to save the day? Are you enjoying the story thus far? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
Then, check out our recent interview with Ron all about the creation of DAYS limited-series, Days of our Lives: Beyond Salem still streaming on Peacock.
Deirdre Hall looks like she seems like she’s really enjoying the re-installment of the devil possession storyline. I certainly am loving it. It’s entertainment and obviously not for every viewer. With that said, I’m having fun watching Deirdre Hall having fun playing the Devil. I like the yellow eyes, though I wish her voice was the same as the original, perhaps it’s a technical thing. This storyline gives Doug and Julie, too, storyline. My hope is that Doug isn’t killed off by MarDevil, I think fans would become even more outraged by that action. With that said, I look forward to Johnny’s movie because I sense, as Abigail playing a younger Marlena, I’m suspecting that Marci Miller’s Abigail, will likely become the Devil at some point and by the looks of it, I think Marci Miller seems very capable to become possessed, too. I’m loving this storyline, and obviously it’s not for all, and I get that. As an actor, I have a different perspective, however, I do get and understand those viewers whom don’t appreciate the Devil possession storyline currently with Marlena and Doug. I just don’t want to see Doug killed off by the Devil. I also see Ben becoming possessed, too, What if MarDevil passes the Devil off to Abigail then to Ben…etc etc, how spooky and fun for them (as actors), especially on the heels of Halloween. Chanel could be another who could get possessed, too. Though, it would be hilarious to see Aunt Paulina/Jackee Harry possessed and levitating in her posh bed, but it seems her storyline is that of her upcoming wedding to Abe, and the reveal of her being Lani’s mother… is around the corner. I’m not happy that as a result, Abe will learn he’s not Lani’s real Dad. Devil!!!!
Should I possess Abigail? Sure why not? She’s got some empty rooms in her head which have been vacant for a while now.
Hell, if you are going to do that, I think Jenn would like to go along for the ride.
There’s a major problem with things like this though: people love to look back at the old stories and long-time characters like this, but to me that only proves that nobody can come up with a NEW idea that will be just as popular. Years from now, is anyone going to care that Sonny lost his memory and thought he was Mike? I don’t even care now.
OMG, whynot—Your words are sacrosanct—Didn’t even cross my mind, but so true!! No one will remember these short stunts—-You’re right–no originality !!!! Going down memory lane is not always popular.
LOL; why not? And I’m asking, “why not?” Not repeating your “name.” All soap stories are memorable to different viewers depending on their individual take on a story. This will be memorable to me for its pure, campy, fun. A reminder of just how cheesy and fun daytime soaps can be. When the genre is gone, this kind of story/memory is gold. Millions watching these stories in an age where there are much more sophisticated choices is interesting to me. I can appreciate the difference between high art and pop; serious pieces of work and the fun of daytime. Soaps are just addictive, familiar escapist fun in an ever-changing crazy real world. I like it for what it is. And this story just has me laughing.
As for “new” ideas? There are never new ideas, just variations on a theme. For a decades old show I think Days and all the other remaining soaps are doing a great job; writing for shows that air five days a week with nary a break each year is beyond a challenge.
This show is bad; only ones happy with it are those that feed his ego on Twitter.
Not only is the show bad, Lincoln, but John and Roman look really dumb—-especially John—DUH!! GOOFY!! That’s the script they’re given….
Considering the fact that Marlena was possessed twenty-five years ago, why can’t he, as her husband, and the closest person to her, not notice her strange nuances, however small? Light bulbs should be going off in his head. The words, “been there, done that” should be swimming in his head by now.
C’mon, writers—-please end it!!
I just finished watching—-only took me a few minutes—FF-ed through most of the ep.—but not before hearing two words:”Rosemary’s Baby”—– please, do not do this.
If you don’t like the show why are you reading this post??? 🙂
I love the show—-this is an opinion page, ergo, opining does not dislike mean!!
If you don’t like posts that are unappealing to your sensibility, why do you read them? What’s good for the goose—
I am not overly fond of the possession storyline but… I am fond of seeing the stellar DOOL vets front and center. So I am grateful for that. Doug and Julie!!! Soaps are family to viewers and fans. We need to see our senior members of the clan!
lakovos,
I believe the cast is having a ball doing this and I think that Mr. Williams is having a devilishly good time, possibly using this as a way to retire.
Hi, Iakovos—so great to “see” you again.
I’m not into this possession stuff either; especially if children will be involved.
I so appreciate Bill Hayes—he’s the best. Yet, they’re “storing” him away somewhere.
Later, my friend….
It’s awful. If I wanted to watch stuff like this I would put on a horror movie. If you feel you obviously must force this onto your viewers, then make a limited series similar to Beyond Salem. You can even title it Beyond Intelligence. That way, viewers who want you to torture them can watch this idiotic concept. And your fans who continue to watch Days (in the hope of the show becoming better) can once again go back to watching. Be sure to announce when all the crap is over, there are a lot of us who quit watching until then.
While Days is going on with this possession, some of us don’t want to watch it. Can you make a limited series (like Beyond Salem) with older footage you already have. Edit out the folding clothes, having tea, and put together something like Beginning Salem with Dr. and Mrs. H right from the beginning. It will move a lot faster as the boring stuff will be edited out. Then Days loyal viewers can watch this. Thanks.
Can’t believe you decided to bring back this story line. I have been watching Days of our lives for many many years and have to say I didn’t enjoy the storyline the first time and certainly do not enjoy it now. Hope this ends very soon and doesn’t affect Ben’s character. Ben and Sierra deserve some peace.
I agree
Carlivati: “Even though all soap opera stories, I would argue, depend on some characters being a little bit dumb. . .” Oh lordy, where to start, where to START?
Ummm, no, Ron. Foolish, perhaps, or ill-advised, or immature, or similar adjectives; even smart people can do “dumb” things in the grip of emotion, sure. But dumb, as in lacking normal brain cells? There’s a phrase for that kind of storytelling: “idiot plot.” It applies to all types of fiction, including soaps, and effective soap writers know how to tell a story without resorting to it. (Or at least they used to. I would not want to be too sure of anything in the current environment, because there might be little choice, depending on interference from above.)
I sure as hell (sorry, Satan) wouldn’t say something like that out loud in an interview. What does it say about your opinion of your audience if you really believe it? Oy.
Other topics should have been considered. This one was done before and I see no reason to repeat.
I want to start out by saying THANK GOD that RC is not writing for GH. forever AMEN.
Having to endure this mess, Duke the Bear, Jake the Mechanic trying to play business, Bonnie & revisionist Ava history that is pathetic, really makes this show must pass t.v. Agree with others should have been limited Peacock series and thank you lord Carlivati isn’t writing for GH anymore.
Yup, Louie Y. It’s getting kind of painful to watch—-FF helps!!
The highlight, today, was when Chanel mentioned the sitcom, SISTER SISTER; where Jackee was sort of the star? I remember watching that show as a little girl, myself.
The most ridiculous stotyline ( second to the “possession) for me is the Bonnie travesty. There is something to be said about falling in love with your dead wife’s carbon copy—is Justin in love with a memory? I know, I know—it’s a soap….
Not looking forward to “Rosemary’s Baby”. I will not watch!!
You don’t want to see Ciara give birth to my son, the Antichrist??
Y’all need to help me name my future son. He needs three names, 6 letters in each one. “Weston” will be his last name, so we’re 1/3 of the way there.
LOL—what if it’s a girl? I would call her Venere—the planet of light—-may she always shine goodness. You do not have the power to choose a “he”.
Even you, Satan, is not more powerful than God.
As Lucifer, you were HIS favorite Angel ( of light: Luce means light in Italian, ergo, Lucifero). But, you want to be more poweful than God—–doesn’t work, does it? You fear God. Yet, God does not fear you. All Ben and Ciera have to do is chant, “I reject you, Satan”, over and over.
You are so much fun—-wish I knew you.
Love the banter!!
Seriously, do you think this debacle will be over by Halloween?
I never actually wanted to be “more powerful” than my Former Employer. That’s all just propaganda from the religious FundaMENTALists. What actually happened back in the day, was that I merely made a couple of suggestions to the Old Man, and He got all offended by it, and exiled me off to a much warmer climate. Then He lost a bet to me with that whole “Job” situation, and He’s held a grudge against me ever since.
I’m over it. Can’t speak for Him, but I haven’t been invited up to Heaven lately, so you can probably draw your own conclusions there.
You crack me up—-love it!!
I will keep you in my prayers—
Well, it’s official now!
Ciara is having my BeelzeBaby!!
How does the name Damien(6) Horton(6) Weston(6) sound??
I am already tired of this devilish storyline—-neither interesting nor palatable.
I hope it’s not going in the direction I think it is.
Please, let’s not involve babies–
After yesterday’s ep, it seems to me that we’re in store for the second coming of “Rosemary’s Baby”.
If the writers’ intentions are to have Ciara impregnated by Beelzebub—-Well, that’s as far as I will go!! I won’t watch. I can’t—I will break out in hives!!
I’m inclined to think it’s a Halloween spoof—-perhaps the storyline will be stoed in limbo, where the viewer is left wondering……
Sorry. I find myself jumping ahead. But I was there the first time and it has been a bit boring. Where are the other storylines?. Love you all. Fan for 50 years.
This just gets more stupid every day. I can’t even watch the whole show without having to turn it off. Watching Marlena today lying stretched out on the bed I just knew she would be levitated? I wanted John to come in and ask her what the hell she was doing up there.I can’t stand that little squirt Johnny and all the craziness with his movie. Why does E.J want to play opposite Abby, just to make Chad mad or jealous? All I know is I am not enjoying any of it lately, there’s so much going on that we only get to see little bits every few days.
EJ wants to piss everybody off! He’s mad at Chad, because Chad’s willing to finance Johnny’s movie. But the person EJ is REALLY trying to get to here is Sami. This hits her on two different fronts….
First, there’s the fact that the whole “John banged Marlena on the Titan conference table” scene witnessed by a teenage Sami will play a big part in this movie, and obviously Elvis knows that his wife really wouldn’t rather relive that.
Now add on top of that the idea that this scene would be acted out by EJ & Abigail – who once had an affair themselves (different Elvis & different Abigail, of course) and this should drive Sami’s rage up by 666%.
This is all driven by the fact that EJ thinks Sami is merely in hiding & avoiding him, which of course, he can’t stand. He’s a lot like his daddy Stefano in that way…. always needing to feel like he’s in control of the situation. It would actually be a good strategy to bring Sami out of the shadows….. except she’s not hiding, she was kidnapped!
Maybe when Sami DOESN’T react to any of this, that’s when EJ, her kids, Roman, John, etc. will finally get a clue that Sami’s disappearance wasn’t exactly voluntary?
Lucas should be the one to figure something is very wrong with Sammi not showing up and he said EJ is dangerous. I would love for him to publicly accuse EJ in the Spectator of murdering Samantha to see if that would force Samantha to come forward. Also shouldn’t Jack hire daughter number 1 to work at the newspaper since daughter number 2 is opting for an acting career. Days needs an obnoxious reporter and Gwen in addition to being awful and having a killer instinct would most certainly be a better reporter than Abigail. The devil storyline other than Bill Hayes has been a bust.
How could I forget Lucas?? Maybe because he seems to have disappeared the last couple of weeks. Yes, he should definitely be involved in the “hunt for Sami”.
The question is, who kidnapped her? Kristen seems the most obvious suspect, but why would she do that to her “baby brother’s” wife??
I’m sure somebody’s going to blame me for her disappearance, but I was walking around inside a 96 year old man at the time Sami disappeared, and even though I’m immortal, Doug is not, so that pretty much limited what I could have done in the physical realm at the time. Locking Julie up in the freezer didn’t take much effort.
Perfectly said. I loved James Scott—-faults and all.
But, this EJ gets on my last nerve—and, what’s up with the hair?
Is it a little hair piece? He looks like a little boy where Mommy did his hair, redying him for school.
EJ is a snake—-he has Sami stashed somewhere—knew that from the get-go. Unless you think otherwise.
Is he getting the hots for Abigail again? Spiting Chad? Or both? Kill two birds with one stone?
I am very disappointed in Giovanni ( Jo-vanni)—-what happened to turning a new leaf? As a true scion ( or should I say, spawn?) of Stefano, I guess it’s inconceivable or he, as a bad seed, is simply incapable.
I don’t think EJ was involved in Sami’s disappearance at all. I don’t even think he realizes that she HAS disappeared, but rather he thinks that she’s avoiding him on purpose. As opposed for fighting for their roller coaster of a marriage, as she would usually do. Obviously Elvis is still in love with his “dear Samantha” and going on the assumption that she’s avoiding him, he thinks he can get her attention by prompting her jealousy impulses. And what better way to do that than to be acting out the conference table hookup scene which traumatized Sami’s teenage years, with Abigail – whom Elvis actually had an affair with several years back. I think Chad is close to figuring out what the agenda is here. Poor little Johnny is probably unaware that daddy & auntie Abigail had that kind of history. Definitely not something Sami would have been likely to bring up in a conversation with her kids.
So, if not EJ, who has Sami? In reality, Ms Sweeney is busy making new movies ( Hallmark Xmas films etc.).
It never dawned on me that EJ would be trying to make Sami jealous by using Abigail. Very astute of you!! By the same token, Sami may not give a hoot—-not if she still loves Lucas. On the other hand, maybe she wants both, and Rafe too, as a snack.
However, it does make sense—that hot, shower scene, between Abigail and EJ, is still clear in my head—-LOL.
I don’t think the movie will be a thing—Johnny is feeling guilt-pangs over resurrecting Grandma’s “possession” torment.
Except for the power of “possession”, I see EJ and Philip as dastardly as Satan ( no offense?).
I’d like to see Sami and Lucas back together, albeit she unabashedly never takes the blame for her mistakes.
At first I thought Kristen was the one who snatched Sami as she had the others, then I thought EJ and now I am not so sure. I can’t stand EJ and his throwing himself at Abby and Nicole if as you say to make Sami jealous, or Chad. I think he is so unattractive and trying to I don’t know what, when kissing Nicole made me ill, yuk! I don’t think Johnny is so bad wanting to do his movie, not really knowing the whole truth. He’s just thinking money and noteriety. The poor guy can’t sing and when he was singing for Chanel it sounded like a cat being skinned alive, a real Elvis he aint. He is nothing like his father and grt.grandfather, at least treats people respectfully and kindly. Can’t wait for this nonsense to be over and we get back to our regular SLs, though I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to look at Marlena again without seeing her devil eyes.
Hey, Violet; I have a different opinion. I think the actor playing EJ is very good-looking. Not necessarily my type, but still I find him incredibly attractive objectively speaking. As for Johnny, he’s actually a country singer in real life. If you (or anyone else reading here) are curious, you can see a few of his music videos on youtube. He’s rather good in that genre. I have no idea if he has a future in it, but the boy can actually sing. His name is Carson Boatman. I don’t want to attach a link; I don’t know if Michael allows that on his site. 😉
It’s pretty sad to me that the only thing Days has going on is this dumb story and when I click Michael Fairman TV, the headline is the same. Personally, I’m not watching because all the storylines are bad. I’m disappointed in Xander’s story that he’s ending up with Ron’s personal favorite Gwen. I can’t believe she’s still on the show dressed like a rag bag. I think Xander is lonely. Isn’t there something coming up where he goes to find Sarah? I hope so.
It’s good to have Suzanne Rogers back. Maybe I should be watching to see the acting being done by Susan Seaforth Hayes? The old timers are the reason I started watching in the first place back in 1974. I can always FF through the crap.
Thanks for letting me post and vent a little.
Moto62
Had to laugh at your description of Gwen’s wardrobe. I think Xander is very lonely to want to hop in the sack with the likes of her. I did read something about Sarah being found.
That’s good news about Sarah then! Yes, Gwen dresses like she did a dumpster dive for her clothing. lol
Moto62
After Monday’s show with Victor asking Steve to find Kristen, who knows if he’ll find Sarah and possible Sami too and whoever else she spirited away.
Well, Sami was supposed to be back in November, and rumors here in Hell are that Sarah will return (in one form or another) and a Kristen sighting is supposed to happen soon…. so this all adds up to Steve finding all three of them, probably.
I love Xander and Gwen and I knew they’d be a couple from the time they met. Two people who grew up feeling unloved, wanting to be loved, to be accepted; two imperfect people who are perfect for each other. They get each other. I can’t stand Sarah with her nails-on-a-blackboard baby voice. Drove me nuts! When she wasn’t acting like an infant she was condescending; Xander had to jump through hoops to be worthy of her. Totally got on my nerves. I hope Xander sticks with Gwen if Sarah returns.
Rebecca1
I don’t like Gwen nor the way Jack gives her every benefit of the doubt, though I understand why.I can’t stand Sarah and her cockamamie, silly, boisterous acting.I always said I was glad she wasn’t MY doctor. I liked this actress when she was on B&B but she was a complete wackado here, and not Xander’s type at all.
Hi again, Violet 😉 We’ll have to do the “agree to disagree” on Gwen; as said above I like her. Although, it was a process, lol. Could not stand her when she first arrived. Her lip biting and nail biting drove me insane! Thankfully, she dropped those mannerisms. And I hated what she was did to Abigail; all I felt was anger and frustration that she kept getting away with things. I truly wanted her gone.
…But once her vulnerability surfaced and we saw her private moments of reflection (not her insincere apologies meant to manipulate ), we got to see another side of her. She literally believed her father abandoned her and CHOSE Abigail over her. She believed what she was fed as a child and it twisted her into a malicious ball of vengeful hate with no conscience. Now it seems she has one and WANTS to do the right thing, but is afraid she’ll lose her newfound fatherly love. I also believe that, like Xander, she’ll never be a really good “person,” but rather fall into the shades of gray area. Xander can be wonderful, full of heart and compassion for those he cares for, and a threat to those he doesn’t or those who have wronged him. But I no longer see Gwen or Xander as evil. More like precocious children that can go all-Chucky if you don’t keep an eye on them. LOL!
Oh; I agree about Lindsay Godfrey. I only saw her a few times on B&B; I was a recent viewer so by the time I was watching she was leaving…but I’ve seen her on another things. She’s a good actress and I love her look. But once “Sarah” got with Xander she was a vacillated between stern parent and infant.
Well, Rebecca1, longtime friend, thank you for summing up the way many viewers, myself included, feel about Gwen. I do like her, too. And I had seen this actress’ work on Y&R, which I enjoyed. But I came onboard quickly. Frankly, Abigail had become such a negative, dour person that I found myself rooting for Gwen against her. And still do. Take care, Friend.
Hi, Jamesj75! How are you? I pop in occasionally; glad to “see” you here. 😉 Ah; I give you credit for liking Gwen from the beginning, lol. She “caused” me too much stress. But, yes, I’m a Gwen convert. Conversely, I always liked Abigail until she became way too “grumpy” toward Chad, even though it was beyond well-deserved. She’s finally softened up, and I’m back to liking her. (I’m not a fan of Kate Mansi’s Abigail, but I love Marci’s version. I do prefer Kate’s style of dressing, though. She always looks cool, hip, casual…whereas Marci dresses like she’s channeling in from Little House On The Prairie. What’s up with that? Why are they dressing the same character in different styles!?)
As for the topic here, I actually like the possession story in all its stupid splendor. I find it very entertaining; smile or laugh through most of it and like how it incorporates so many into the story; and all the havoc it’ll bring. I also like the swirling flashbacks to the earlier younger Marlena and John original story.
And, who knew the dev looks like Mr. T! 😉
Thank you for your reply, Rebecca1! I am well. I hope you and your loved ones are well also. I like that you see the “good” in the possession storyline. I give YOU credit for that! Funny stuff about the devil–Mr. T. connection! And I honestly laughed at your characterization of Abigail’s wardrobe being akin to Little House on the Prairie! So true. Best to you, Rebecca! “See” you again soon…
Jamesj75…❤
Ahh–really? I love Xander with Gwen ( now that she’s no longer after Abby and is trying to walk a straight line). One lie will undoubtedly lead into another, and another…..
She should, at least, be admired for trying to be decent and for trying to help Xander—– Nonetheless, she needs to come clean with Jack et al.
I can’t stand Sarah—-She always seemed to have the upperhand with Xander. Too artificial. I wonder if she and Gwen will be competing for Xander’s affections. Between me and whomever, Sarah is too blah for him!! He’s so hot!! She’s not!!
At first I was against it.but now it makes for a good story plot.I wonder if this is for Halloween..Got to have a exciting story .Or who will watch?Marlana and John really dont have much of a story so they did this to keep them on the show.Oh goodness leave Bens baby alone.Ciara doesnt deserve this neither does Ben.Rose Mary’s Baby here we cone.
Carol
I don’t think John and Marlena have to worry about being kept on the show. They are two of the main characters and I like seeing Marlena step out of her goody two shoes character, always knowing how to solve everyone’s problems. As the Devil, she also gets the chance to avoid John’s yucky kisses and anything else he has in mind. I hope he gets to hear the Devil’s voice on her recorder. Wow, technology sure has come a long way.
I know they have been on for years.I know what you mean about her being so good all the time.She makes me sick.I use to like her a long time ago but not anymore.Marlana i think is stuck up and John he is an idiot.
I know everyone will snub me—–but, I was never a fan of Marlena . She is a fave on this soap. No one is too sweet, too good, too perfect, too much honey dripping from her lips. Now, with her devilish, fiery eyes, my fingers itch to poke them and smack her around a few times. Skap the devil out of her.
John Black? Hey, Doc……nice shades—take ’em off. Don’t like him either.
I wish we could see more of Victor—his sarcastic humor slays me. Nonetheless, I’m well aware of his age, and he can’t always be on stage. God Bless. Love John Aniston.
I certainly won’t snub you, Celia. I fully get your take on Marlena and John. I, too, have criticized them here: Marlena as being a know-it-all and John being too squinty-eyed and touch-feely. I also criticized this possession storyline, so I am simply fast-forwarding through these scenes. I don’t even like when other characters talk about Marlena being possessed as though it’s a simple fact.
As for Victor, he is a highly enjoyable character as is Maggie. Unlike Marlena, Maggie is a more realistic character, as she is indeed sweet, but she makes mistakes and faces repercussions for them.
Hey, James—-thank you for that, my friend. Sometimes I’m sort of reluctant to voice my opinion in fear of nasty rebuttals. LOL
Gee, glad to hear you see what I see—-it’s like, Oh, gawd; enough of the sweet Marlena already—-her every word is sacrosanct, or else.
As one horrible psycho as she was, I liked her twin much more. Is that a twisted remark, or what!? LOL.
I like Maggie, too—especially when she puts Victor in his place. I missed her–glad she’s back.
We shall see how far “they” plan to go with this possession. I’m speculating Halloween?
Finally John caught on—but in Church? That’s another discordant note, James. As a Roman Catholic, who’s had religious instruction ( Catechism classes) from Kindergarten through High School, I was under the impression that the devil cannot walk onto Holy Ground, or he would “disintegrate”—but, here he is, strolling into Church, making himself at home. I know—as I always say, it’s a soap—not much is real.
However, all John has to do is grab some Holy Water and throw it in Marlena’s/Satan’s face. Problem solved!!
Later, James
Thank you for your reply, Celia, and further expansion on these issues. Let’s hope the possession story is wrapped up by Halloween, as it would be a treat for the fans who have not been happy about the story. Your logic regarding the devil’s appearance in a church is lost on the writers. Take care, Friend.
Hey, James…I don’t think the devil in Church is lost on the writers. I think they decided to take poetic license. Ron Carlivati is a Catholic, I’m pretty sure he knows how “the story goes”, lol. But in THIS story, the possessed Marlena addressed why she/he/it was able to be in a Church amongst the Cross and the holy water, etc. LOL; said he took precautions (or something like that). That’s why this story really is amusing. It’s so silly that one day, when daytime soaps are just a bittersweet memory, and we and/or future generations look back or view a montage or reruns of some of these stories and clips, we’ll objectively see the sheer magnitude of how utterly ridiculous the whole genre is. Each story. And I, for one, love it all (not every story but the cray cray) for just that reason. It’s a lil microcosm of the “good” kind of crazy. 😉
Rebecca, thank you for your interesting take on this story and also for providing a nod to the “big picture” of the genre as a whole. Cheers!
Celia and Jamesj75, are you old enough to remember Flip Wilson, the comedian famous in the 1970s? Remember his tag line, “The devil made me do it!”… I think they should interject that every time this story rears its ugly head.
Just for the record…. I didn’t make him do it. But I thought Flip was kinda funny back in the day.
Soaphound, I am indeed old enough to remember Flip Wilson and this great tag line. Glad you made this reference to “the devil.” Flip also famously said: “What you see is what you get!” And if memory serves me, at one time, his hysterical, in drag character, Geraldine said, “What you seize is what you get!” Of course, this was well before the Me Too movement…
To come full circle, Geraldine had a never-seen boyfriend, Killer. I’d like to think that Killer could put the devil in his place!
LOL. I don’t remember much—–I rememer some stuff on TV from 1990 on. I was four…..
I know about Andrea Hall’s time on DOOL because my grandmother liked the character. As I grew older I became a soap-opera aficionada because of my Gran.
I looked Andrea up and watched snippets—-she really was a crazy baddie, but I, too, liked her. LOL–my Grandmother and I think alike—
However, I do know who Flip Wilson is/was? And, I am familiar with the quote. Too funny!!
“The Best Of Flip Wilson”,by Time Life, was actually on a few days ago—-as my husband was flipping channels, Flip, dressed as Geraldine, caught my eye and watched it for a long while.
I am still trying to figure out why TPTB are resurrecting this?? As I was telling James, it’s all messed up when it comes to the Church—but, it’s a soap and it has to fit their narrative.
One of our fellow-poster ( can’r remember whom) had mentioned that he/she thought Marlena and John were sort of in the background, ergo they needed a jarring storyline to bring them back to the forefront.
Hope it’ll be over soon.
Not enjoying Marlena’s possession. Getting tired of watching DOOL now due to Marlena’s possession. When will it end?
When Hell freezes over!
HaHaHaHaHa!! How apropos!!
S
I just wish everyone that feels like you do could just enjoy this as entertainment. My goodness, you must know it’s not real. It will probably end up being someone’s dream. I don’t think they will drag it on as long as the first one, with John doing an exorcism, and maybe he can scare the devil out of her. I’ve heard it’s happened to many people.Just try and enjoy the fun parts and days that the stories are about the other characters.
I agree, Violet. It’s pure entertainment. Silly, stupid crazy but fun, entertainment. I’m getting a kick out of the entire thing. Even watching John’s over-the-top soapy reaction when the devil admitted he had taken over Marlena, and then, ahahahhaha, Marlena’s trying to tell John she can hear him…LOL! so silly. Cracks me up! 🙂 (they gotta get Doug released!)
Rebecca 1,
Poor John, I thought at least Mardevil would bring him some chowder.Dont know how he has any energy to fight. I was hoping this stuff would end, come Halloween, but alas now “I see dead people” It was really good when Nicolle fell off that chair. She must have thought she saw a ghost! Thank GOD my FF works. I knew they’d find a way to get rid of Ava once they decided to get Rafe and Nicole together. Perfect time to send Eric home and Sami too I guess.
Hey, Violet. I laughed out loud when Nicole went flying off the chair; it’s so silly stupid, but, I guess I’m in the mood for silly fun. Deirdre Hall looks like she’s having a blast, and the “walking dead” must have cracked them all up while they were filming it. It’s so cheesy (I actually like horror, vampire shows, etc; but this is a silly romp by comparison) that I like it for its campy fun. I’m not in a rush for them to wrap it up. I think they’re doing a good job keeping other stories going and somehow tying it all together. I like how they’re basically creating havoc for all.
I doubt Greg Vaughn (Eric) is coming back. He moved and wanted off the show so… And, though I think Rafe and Nicole are great together, I actually like her with EJ, too. I didn’t watch back in the day when they were married so they’re new to me as a couple. But I gather she was more into him and he was more into Sami? So I assume that even if they did get together at some point he’d dump her again for Sami? (I think the actor playing EJ is incredibly good-looking, coupled with his accent). I saw pics of the other EJ and he was stunning, too…
Supposedly Greg is back on contract. Don’t know the specifics of the contract or when he’s supposed to be back on the air.
I hope it’s not so he can put the collar back on and try to evict me out of his mama!
Next week, Days of Our Lives welcomes back fan favorites Colton Little (Andrew Donovan) and Christopher Sean (Paul Narita) when they reprise their roles for an upcoming special episode which contains Deidre Hall’s 50th anniversary as Marlena Evans.
Circle Monday, June 22 when the married couple comes back to Salem. Paul is the son of Marlena’s beloved and late husband, John Black (Drake Hogestyn). Andrew is the son of iconic couple Shane Donovan (Charles Shaughnessy) and Kimberly Brady (Patsy Pease).
According to the official Days of Our Lives spoilers for the week of June 22-26, Andrew scolds Cat (AnnaLynne McCord). Let’s remember Andrew is ISA. Meanwhile while Marlena thinks back on her fifty years in Salem, Paul arrives back in town.
Photo: JPI
ANDREW AND PAUL
Christopher Sean began playing Paul Narita back in 2014. He has come and gone from the show over the last decade. He was last on-screen back in November of 2025, when Paul arrived back in Salem for the dedication of the Tom Horton Free Clinic as part of the Days of Our Lives 60th anniversary celebration.
Colton Little, first began playing the all grown-up Andrew Donovan in 2022 on the Peacock limited series, Beyond Salem: Chapter 2. Little eventually moved to the mothership and Days of Our Lives in 2023. He was last seen on the soap opera back in March of this year in scenes with Peter Porte (Dimitri Von Leuschner) and Greg Rikaart (Leo Stark).
In story, Andrew and Paul tied the knot in front of family and friends on June 24, 2025, which followed the heartbreaking funeral of Paul’s father, John Black, who had passed away several weeks earlier from injuries sustained in an explosion.
Photo: JAnchondoIG
Michael Fairman TV also confirmed the romance exclusively of Colton Little with former General Hospital actor, Adrian Anchondo (ex-Marco Rios) at the end of December of 2025.
Anchondo shared at that time, “I reached out to him (Colton) when I got the job on GH. We knew of each other through mutual friends; so I knew of him for a long time. I started asking Colton about what his experience was like on soaps and asked about SAG health insurance, etc. We met up one night and were hooked from then on.”
So, are you excited to see Andrew and Paul back on your screens? Share your thoughts and if you would like to see them stay longer in Salem in the future, with a story all of their own via the comment section. But first, check out the just released promo for the action on Days of Our Lives entitled “Conspiracy” below featuring Christopher and Colton.
Days Of Our Lives
GH and DAYS Alum Brandon Barash and Wife Isabella Welcome Son ‘Sebastian’ Into the World
Congratulations are in order for General Hospital and Days of Our Lives favorite Brandon Barash (ex-Johnny and ex-Stefan/Jake, respectively) and his wife, Isabella Devoto Barash, who welcomed their newborn son, Sebastian Antonio Barash back on June 5.
For the first time his Sebastian’s birth the couple is posting and beaming with pride at the new addition to the family. This is Brandon and Isabella’s second child and second son together following the birth of Joaquin Lee Barash back in September of 2023. Barash is also the father of Harper Rose Barash from his previous marriage to General Hospital star, Kirsten Storms (Maxie) who is now 12-years-old and big sister to do younger brothers!
In his heartfelt post on Instagram accompanied by several photos of his growing family, Brandon expressed, “The heart is indeed a muscle, and boy, can it stretch. We welcomed our newest addition Sebastian Antonio Barash (Antonio after Isa’s dad) on 6.5.26. Lil Seba, I vow to love you with undying ferocity and without condition. As for our new family of five, we have all already evolved for the better as we rise like the lotus through the muck of sleepless nights, soul-tingling baby whimpers, and yes, poopy diapers. These babies teach us a clinic on love…all we need to do is saddle up, be still, and take em in. Isabella Barash, you’re my hero. Thank you for the gift of your love. House is full, hearts fuller.”
Photo: BBarashIG
BRANDON’S BUDDIES CONGRATULATE HIM ON WELCOMING NEW SON
Several of Brandon’s former co-stars have already jumped in the commenting thread including, Rob Scott Wilson (Alex, DAYS) “Congrats my brotha!!,” Dan Feuerriegel (EJ, DAYD) and Eric Martsolf (Brady, DAYS), with whom Brandon appears with in the Day Players Band and more.
Back in April of this year, Brandon was granted an emergency restraining order against his ex-wife, Kirsten Storms claiming that the GH favorite was exhibiting concerning behavior and he feared for the well-being of their daughter, Harper. They each now live separate lives in Tennessee.
We send our well-wishes to Brandon, Isabella and their new son, Sebastian as they build their burgeoning family unit.
Take a look at Brandon and Isabella’s new little bundle of joy in the snaps below.
Now, share your congratulations to Brandon and Isabella via the comment section!
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Days Of Our Lives
‘Days of Our Lives’ Eric Martsolf Recalls Moment He Learned He Was Cast as Brady Black, and Last Scenes with Drake Hogestyn (SOAPY Exclusive Preview)
Daytime Emmy winner, Eric Martsolf talks about how he learned he was cast as Brady Black on Days of Our Lives on an all-new episode of Soapy Hosted by Rebecca Budig and Greg Rikaart dropping Tuesday, June 16. Martsolf, who is the special guest, related how he was out of a job following the end of his run as Passions’ Ethan Crane when the NBC soap was canceled in 2008.
In addition, Eric shares a heartbreaking and memorable conversation with the late Drake Hogestyn (John Black), who at the time was in the throes of chemotherapy following his pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Ahead of the premiere of this heartfelt conversation, Michael Fairman TV is giving you an exclusive preview with two clips from Martsolf’s visit to the CBS podcast.
First, Eric recounted how he and his wife Lisa had recently welcomed twin boys, bought a house, and he did not know if he would find a way quick enough to support the family. Eric had already learned the part he read for at Days of Our Lives, he didn’t get. However, little did he know, that he was about to instead become the recast Brady Black, previously played by Kyle Lowder.
Photo: JPI
THE CALL THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
“I had my kids in their double-stroller in Porter Ranch, wondering how I’m going to pay for this house? Marnie Saitta (casting director, Days of Our Lives) calls me up, ‘Eric, can you get your butt to the studio right now?’ I’m like, ‘Why? I didn’t get the job.’ She’s like, ‘Well, maybe you got a job. They want you for Brady Black. They want to bring back this character. He’s been off the canvas for about three years.’ I said, ‘Marnie, Oh, my God! That is such great news. I have my kids, and my wife’s out of town.’ She’s like, ‘Bring your kids. Drop ’em off at my office!’ I dropped the boys off at her office, went and met with Gary Tomlin (former co-executive producer, DAYS), and he said, ‘You’re Brady now. Here’s your backstory. Welcome to the show.'”
Eric continued, “I went back to Marnie’s and I knocked on the door and they’re my kids. One has the Apple remote in his hand or whatever hitting it against the desk, the other one’s playing with the keyboard. Marnie says, ‘Congratulations, get your kids out of my office now.” I was like, ‘I’m so sorry. I love you. Just send me the bill for the damage.’ Eventually, my wife Lisa came home. I said, ‘I’m on DAYS now.’ We cried and we hugged, and I’ve been with DAYS ever since.”
THE HEARTBREAKING MOMENT WITH DRAKE HOGESTYN
The Days of Our Lives family lost one of its most beloved members when Drake Hogestyn who played John Black for 38 years passed away from pancreatic cancer on September 28, 2024. It wasn’t until June of 2025, that DAYS viewers saw the story play out where John succumbed to internal injuries sustained in an explosion saving the experimental serum to bring Bo Brady back to life. It was John’s final mission.
During his visit to Soapy, Eric Martsolf was asked to share one of his greatest memories of working with Drake as his TV son. In an emotional moment, Martsolf recalled trying to tape a scene with Drake when he clearly was feeling the effects of the chemotherapy he was undergoing at the time, while he tried to soldier on as Drake was known to do.
Photo: JPI
“Not to get too sentimental, but I think it was one of the last scenes we did together. We were in the interrogation room at the Salem PD. John is talking to Brady about something and he had to stop tape because he was on chemo and he would have to excuse himself from the set, come back, gather himself, and just go right back into the scene. You could tell he was really struggling. He didn’t talk to me much about what was going on. I heard through the grapevine what was wrong with him. I just looked at him and I went, ‘How you doing?’ We had a five minute break, and he said, ‘I’m just on a journey. It’s going to be good. It’s going to be fine.’ That just broke my heart. He still wanted to keep telling the story even though his body wasn’t letting him. Drake never complained, never bitched.”
Martsolf added, “My memory of Drake is just a man of fortitude, and a man that was a storyteller until the end that just wanted to keep doing his job. He gave Ken Corday (executive producer, Days of Our Lives) his blessing to film John Black’s funeral while he was still on this planet. Ken said to him, ‘Are you sure?’ Drake was like, ‘Tell the story.’ That’s a man. That’s a guy who is dedicated to what he had been doing for the last 40, 50 years.”
Soapy Hosted by Rebecca Budig and Greg Rikaart features weekly lively and often nostalgic conversations with beloved past and present stars and creatives from across the entire soap opera community and all networks and platforms, including daytime and primetime. Whether a lifelong fan or discovering the genre for the first time, the series shares that it, “offers a fresh, fun behind-the-scenes look at the stories – and storytellers – that define daytime drama.”
Episodes from the audio/video podcast series are available for free via Audacy and the CBS brand You Tube Channel. The podcast is produced by the Paramount Multiplatform Production Group, with Mike Benson serving as executive producer.
Take a look at these exclusive previews below with Eric Martsolf.
Now let us know, were you touched by Eric’s memories of Drake struggling to work as he battled cancer? What did you think of Eric’s casting story of how he became the new Brady Black? Have you enjoyed Eric’s performance over the last 18 years in the role? Weigh-in via the comment section.
Y&R Preview: Matt Clark Asks Phyllis on a Date, Would You Be Down for the Pairing? Roger Howarth & Michelle Previously in GH’s Franco/Nina Romance
‘General Hospital’ Alum Chad Duell Announces Upcoming Release of His First Single, ‘If You Need Me’
‘General Hospital’s’ Dominic Zamprogna Reflects on Dante’s Guilt for the ‘Atrocity’ That Happened to Michael Which Kept Everyone From Telling Him the Truth About Rocco (Exclusive)
RATINGS: ‘Beyond the Gates’ Scores Third Most-Watched Week Since Its Premiere With ‘The Young and the Restless’ Crossover Event
Finola Hughes First Airdate Back to ‘General Hospital’ Revealed: But What Will Be the State of Anna Devane’s Mental Health?
‘General Hospital’s’ Controversial Luke and Laura Rape Episode: Writer Sheri Anderson Reveals Behind the Scenes Decisions and Admits ‘I Was Wrong’ to Defend It (Exclusive)
‘Days of Our Lives’ Eric Martsolf Recalls Moment He Learned He Was Cast as Brady Black, and Last Scenes with Drake Hogestyn (SOAPY Exclusive Preview)
‘General Hospital’s’ Dominic Zamprogna Weighs-In on Dante and Elizabeth Pairing and Sharing Scenes with Rebecca Herbst (Exclusive)
GENERAL HOSPITAL Promo: Rocco’s in a Panic as Britt’s Health Takes a Turn, Chase is Called to the Carpet
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Michael Puts Willow On Notice After Tracy Is Arrested
Y&R Preview: Matt Clark Asks Phyllis on a Date, Would You Be Down for the Pairing? Roger Howarth & Michelle Previously in GH’s Franco/Nina Romance
‘General Hospital’s’ Dominic Zamprogna Reflects on Dante’s Guilt for the ‘Atrocity’ That Happened to Michael Which Kept Everyone From Telling Him the Truth About Rocco (Exclusive)
Christopher Sean and Colton Little Make a Return to ‘Days of Our Lives’
Judith Light Reveals She Originally Picked ABC Show About Soap Opera Writers Called ‘Staff of Life’ Before Landing ‘Who’s the Boss?’
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sidwell Surfaces; A Twist in Britt’s Condition
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