Days Of Our Lives
DAYS Thaao Penghlis Talks Andre Being Framed For Stefano's Murder, His Machinations Of Chase, Saying Goodbye To Joseph Mascolo & What Lies Ahead!
Courtesy/NBC
Over the last few months, viewers of NBC’s Days of our Lives have witnessed several shockers! Chief among them: Hope (Kristian Alfonso) shooting the ultimate daytime soap opera villain, Stefano DiMera (Joe Mascolo), a young Chase (Jonathan McClendon) raping Hope’s teenaged daughter, Ciara (Vivian Jovanni), and Hope and Rafe (Galen Gering) pinning the murder of Stefano on his son, Andre (Thaao Penghlis)! Oh, and let’s not forget that moment where Andre brainwashed Chad (Billy Flynn).
All of these storylines cross paths with long time DAYS fan favorite Thaao Penghlis, who is currently finding his dark alter-ego going to prison for a crime he did not commit, and scheming by using a young Chase to do some of his dirty work to seek retribution and create havoc on Hope’s family. But has Andre finally gone too far … or is there even more in store for the poor citizens of Salem and in particular the Bradys?
On-Air On-Soaps caught up with Thaao to get his thoughts on life on DAYS post-Joe Mascolo, and what it was like to say goodbye to his longtime scene partner and on-screen father, who wrapped his run several months ago. As DAYS fans know, Joe was not able to continue performing at the level he was accustomed due to health reasons, and so sadly the show had to make a contingency plan. Ultimately that led to the murder of Stefano, and Andre taking over the reins as the master manipulator of the once DiMera dynasty.
Now Andre finds himself being caught in his own game and being set-up by the Salem PD. How long will they be able to keep Andre looking like the prime suspect in Stefano’s murder? What does Thaao think of the recent storylines on DAYS and their dark turns? (NOTE: This interview was conducted prior to the breaking news late last week of Ryan Quan replacing Josh Griffith as DAYS new co-head writer) Here’s what Thaao shared about what has been happening on stage, backstage, and playing the dangerous DiMera!
Stefano was murdered on Days of our Lives, and for many years you shared a very special relationship with Joe Mascolo. How was Joe’s last day on the set?
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
THAAO: I actually finished shooting in the morning and the whole goodbye situation did not happen till later in the afternoon. They brought him a cake. When I came in, he was standing and taking photographs with the crew. I think he was enjoying himself, but I don’t think the realization had hit him yet that life as it was as Stefano had expired. It was interesting being with him and being affection with him, until we got in the hall and he started to ask, “Does that mean it’s over?” I did not know what to say. It’s just how many times do you get to come into this world, and play and share a character you have spent so many years with? Sometimes people stay with us and a character for many years, and it’s not so easy to give up I think it’s ironic. I have taken over Joe’s dressing room. He’s still there, even though he’s gone, but Joe played such a powerful character and he had such great longevity, so it’s not like I felt sorry for Joe, I would never do that. But there is a sadness. My relationship with Joe was great. There was something paternal about him, but there was also the friendship. In the old days we had more time together at the studio, but we are not going to come across the likes of Joe again.
Coming back this time to DAYS, and then seeing the challenges and struggles Joe was having, was that difficult for you to witness?
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
THAAO: It was harder to see how people on social media were responding to the way Joe was performing and making insensitive comments, and not realizing what the truth of the matter was. People are so quick to judge. They don’t understand that being with Joe, and the struggle he had in remembering things, and not being able to move, and we were in a small space, it kind of limited the experiences. I used to love the moves Joe and I would be able to do in a scene. In recent months that was gone. I would have to come join him since he was sitting down. I know it’s social media, but I cannot believe the insensitivity of people who just rush to judgment. There is so little understanding out there. Occasionally there was a smart person who said, “I think there is something wrong with that actor.” But others were just ridiculing him. If they knew what this man was going through and all of us, and the crew, because everybody loved Joe. You read those comments, you just want to reach out and slap them. I just came through now from set to where the extras are sitting and you can see these young people are all looking at their phones, and so everything is outside of themselves. People are not taking the time to understand one another, because they are not being compassionate.
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
Did you know from the beginning of your return to the show in 2015 that you were being brought back to fill the void in the DiMera family that would ultimately be apparent upon Joe’s exit?
THAAO: When I came back this time they really didn’t tell me the reason, and they didn’t really tell me I was coming in to head the family, but you did just get that from the writing. So in many ways, Joe never said anything to me about usurping the situation, but how many actors in their 80’s can say they have worked their whole lives? Joe has been very blessed. You know, a lot of people retire, but with Joe he was bigger than life and he had that gusto!
When he left the DAYS set on his final tape day, do you think Joe was OK with this being the end of his run?
THAAO: Knowing Joe, no, I don’t think so. He was Stefano. I think there was a part of him that believed it too. How could he not? Joe had all those years being left in charge. He was part of the longevity of the show and now that he is gone, you have to take your own position within the show. I am discovering what that is. I’m working with actors like Billy Flynn, who was not part of my world before. The last time I was here I worked with James Scott as EJ, but things change.
Now on Days of our Lives, Andre wants to destroy Hope for murdering his father!
Courtesy/NBC
THAAO: One thing you have to say about a family as powerful as the DiMeras and the longevity they have had; is that for many years they have gotten their way. For Stefano’s body to be disposed that way is shocking – dumped in a building that is about to collapse. It was like he was going to be buried in cement. It looked like an inside mafia job.
So, do you believe that the body that Andre found was the real body of Stefano DiMera, or do you think there is a possible twist there?
THAAO: It’s the real body. Andre sees the ring and Andre discovers, off-screen, he has been shot many times in the chest and he brings that up. But what takes place is Andre finds the gun and is sent to prison. Hope and Rafe turn against Andre, and make him become the killer, which I think is interesting, and it’s not something in the story one would have expected. People are on Twitter going, “Why didn’t Andre call the police?” Well, because the police are the ones who set this all up! Then they asked, “Well, how did you get out of it?” I responded, “I hailed a cab!” (Laughs) People want to know every single detail. I think it’s just they are trying to find mistakes that the show makes, or something.
What do you think of the frame job Hope and Rafe have perpetrated on Andre … making it appear that he murdered his own father?
THAAO: Well, because he has got the gun and discovered it, and how they found it in Andre’s house is what turns them into thinking he is the killer. Of course, Chad doesn’t believe Andre at all, either! He believes Andre’s bad publicity from the Salem PCPD. (Laughs)
Do you see Andre becoming even more diabolical in his revenge plans?
Courtesy/NBC
THAAO: Part of the reason I have liked this story is our heroes are exposing their shadows. Suddenly, we are looking at them going that’s normal, and we all have those qualities in us. As far as the story is concerned, Andre has time to reflect and time to plan while he is in prison. What we are seeing now is how Andre gets out of prison and legally. I don’t think of Andre as diabolical. I just can’t think that way. I just think that these are the circumstances in my life and I have to survive. Excuse me for bringing this up, but I don’t think Donald Trump goes around thinking, “Oh, I was not good today. I was a bad boy.” I think he says, “I’m going to kick their asses!”
Chase now has raped Ciara. Andre gave him some advice that appears that Chase took literally – to go after what he wants, and to be the strong man, because women like that. Meanwhile, Andre wants to use this guy as weapon of destruction against Hope and her family, and then the teenager does the unimaginable.
Courtesy/NBC
THAAO: Andre was looking for a source. I think it happened when he was playing the music of Stefano’s operas, and then suddenly Chase is spying on Andre. He sees Chase and he now has his hook, and it’s through him he makes the different changes. I think in many ways, Andre sees in this kid as part of himself, and it’s almost like Chase becomes Andre’s protégé. I think Andre looks at this situation with Chase as an advantage for him without the others knowing about it, except he makes a mistake with what this kid ultimately does, but it’s a way of infiltrating the Brady house, plus being able to spy on them. And by the way, it’s not like the kid is that gullible. I remember our producer Albert Alaar coming to me, and here I was with all of my scars and the blood and everything. I am also wearing my best suit with the tie, and a handkerchief in the pocket. Albert goes, “I just love Andre. It does not matter if he has cuts on his face. He always makes sure he is wearing his best clothing.” I like contrast. Andre thinks, “I am not going to let them think I’m suffering.” It would be so easy to come in and look like you are downtrodden, but not Andre. So the clothes to me are parallel to his survival, and now he is using Chase for that as well.
Chase has been having difficulties since the death of his father, Aiden (Daniel Cosgrove). He clearly has a bad seed side to him, and Andre plays upon that. So, Andre sees this relationship with Chase as a good chess move for him?
Photo: Twiter Harlee Marie/NBC
THAAO: Right, but at one point the character realizes he doesn’t have anybody on his side. The reason Andre can get the kid is that in many ways he wants to create a team. Let’s face it: Andre came out of a mental institution and was so alone and nobody trusts him, or likes him. So he has to find people who think like him, even if it’s going to be a protégé that he can influence.
Hope shot and killed Stefano. What did you think of that story decision?
THAAO: They knew it was only a matter of time before Joe had to go. The way they did it was like Greek Theater. In the 80’ and the 90’s, the Hortons and the others are always lovely people. They always smelled like a rose. When (former DAYS co head writers) Josh Griffith comes along, he says, “No, let’s make these characters human.” So the way Hope shoots Stefano brings in shock value. I think the audience couldn’t believe it when it happened. Then of course, it’s about Andre discovering the body and him coming in with all of those scars and surviving. I think all and all it added to great drama for the show.
Courtesy/NBC
When you teased in a tweet late last year “You Won’t Believe What Happens In Jan-Feb. Great Scenes, But Tragedy Is Part Of The DiMera Life.” Is this the storyline and events we are now seeing playing out that you were referencing?
THAAO: Yes, I was referring to the result of Stefano being shot to death, and Andre discovering the body and the whole building collapsing and surviving, but also what is does to Andre’s spirit and faith, because it was shocking.
You are months ahead in story that has already been filmed. What can you tease for DAYS viewers to look forward to in the future in regards to Andre?
THAAO: Someone beats him at his game, for once, and we find out Andre has a heart. But I think how he manipulates the situation from prison and how he gets out, and what happens after that is powerful, and there might even be the possibility of romance.
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
That would be lovely; you have not had a romance in … I don’t know how long! (Laughs)
THAAO: Yes. I’m the “Phantom of the Opera” of Days of our Lives. (Laughs) But really, I think the DiMeras are survivors, and the DiMeras are here to stay.
If the show decided to resurrect Stefano, could you see them recasting the part, and having another actor taking over the role from Joe?
THAAO: I don’t think that would work. I think there are certain characters like Victor on Y&R, as played by Eric Braeden that you can never replace. We are the kind of actors and characters who have experienced a lot where the writers like us, because of the way we express things, and the way we have lived through these stories, and that we all project power on-screen. I always say to actors, “Always be happy with what it is you have been given, and make sure they regret when they kill you!” If they were going to bring in another actor to play Stefano there would have been no reason for my character coming back, because you have to pass on things … like passing the torch.
How do you feel DAYS is now as opposed to its 50th anniversary run back in November?
Courtesy/NBC
THAAO: I know there is darkness, but I think writers parallel what is going on in the world. This is not a happy time, and there is a struggle for people. I think in a way the show represents that in the way the characters survive those struggles. That is why people watch us where they go, “Whoa! My life is so much better than theirs!” I have enjoyed this run, because I have not found it to be cartoonish. When the late James Reilly (Ex-DAYS head writer) was writing the show I found it to be more cartoonish. I think now playing Andre is certainly challenging, especially with some of the dialog.
You have been busy promoting your latest book,Seducing Celebrities One Meal at a Time, and you recently shared on social media a few pictures from a dinner party where you cooked some recipes from the book for some of the DAYS cast. How did that go?
Courtesy/Amazon.com
THAAO: I have known Kristian Alfonso and Lauren Koslow (Kate) for a long time and I said I would cook for them. To get everybody to be available on the same evening is difficult, but I booked it two weeks ahead with them. I made some food from the book, and it was a great success. It’s a great pleasure for me. How do we give to people? That is what cooking is about to me. You are putting your own love on the table for people to share. We had a great time. It’s kind of nice in a way, because we don’t socialize with one another. When we are on set, we spend a lot of time with each other and then everybody goes home to their families. But it was kind of nice to do it this way, and we will do it again!
So, what do you think about Andre being framed for Stefano’s murder? His unholly alliance with Chase, and what has transpired with the rape and the fire at Hope’s house? What did you think of Thaao’s comments on the end of the iconic Joseph Mascolo’s run as Stefano DiMera on DAYS? Who do you think could end up being a potential love interest for Andre as teased down the line by Thaao? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
Days Of Our Lives
Days of our Lives wins WGA Award for Daytime Drama Series
Sunday night, April 14th in concurrent ceremonies in Los Angeles and New York City, the Writers Guild of America is handing out their 76th annual WGA Awards in the fields of motion picture, television, news media, and radio/audio.
In the Daytime Drama category, Peacock’s Days of our Lives was the winner, taking home its fourth WGA Award in this category in a row.
The DAYS winning writing team consisted of Head Writer Ron Carlivati Creative Consultant Ryan Quan and Writers Sonja Alar, Jazmen Darnell Brown, Joanna Cohen, Carolyn Culliton, Richard Culliton, Cheryl Davis, Kirk Doering, Christopher Dunn, Jamey Giddens, David Kreizman, Henry Newman, Dave Ryan, and Katherine D. Schock.
Photo: JPI
The team from Days of our Lives bested the only other team in the category from General Hospital, which consisted of former GH head writers: Dan O’Connor, Chris Van Etten Writers Ashley Cook, Emily Culliton, Suzanne Flynn, Charlotte Gibson, Lucky Gold, Kate Hall, Elizabeth Korte, Shannon Peace, Stacey Pulwer, Dave Rupel, Lisa Seidman, and Scott Sickles.
Courtesy/Peacock
As previously reported, a show spokesperson for Days of our Lives shared that the episodes submitted for the competition were #14663, #14678 & #14679, and mostly centered around the death, and the funeral of Victor Kiriakis played by the late John Aniston.
This week, DAYS head scribe, Ron Carlivati, confirmed that, and told Michael Fairman TV on the decision of the scripts the team submitted: “I like to have some humor, but it was also the funeral, and then there was Sarah (Linsey Godfrey) giving birth, and then Vivian’s (Louise Sorel) crashing the reading of the will.”
You can follow along with the live updated list of all the winners from tonight’s WGA ceremonies here.
Michael Fairman TV will have more on DAYS WGA Award win as it becomes available.
So, what do you think of Days of our Lives winning the WGA Award writing award for a Daytime Drama series for the fourth year in a row? Comment below.
Days Of Our Lives
Matthew Ashford and Melissa Reeves Talk Return to DAYS for Doug’s Funeral, Susan Seaforth Hayes, and Their Enduring Friendship
Last week, Days of our Lives celebrated the taping of their 15,000th episode which is tentatively scheduled to air on December 3rd. The story will feature emotional and heart-tugging scenes of Doug Williams funeral and honor his portrayer, the beloved Bill Hayes, who passed away on January 12th at the age of 98.
While the actors, producers, and crew took a lunch time break to pose for some pictures and speak with the press, they knew they would have to get back to taping the funeral, which was going to make it a tough day, but also cathartic for all who loved Bill Hayes.
Several returns have thus far been announced including; Melissa Reeves reprising her signature role of Jennifer Horton (a part she first played in 1985), and Matthew Ashford as Jack Deveraux. Reeves had last appeared on the show back in 2021, and she was replaced by Emmy-winner Cady McClain in her absence when Jennifer was in storylines. In real-life, Melissa had moved full-time to Tennessee along with her husband, Scott Reeves (ex-DAYS, GH, Y&R). Now, and as previously reported, Reeves will first appear back on DAYS for the Thanksgiving episodes with the Hortons.
Photo: JPI
Michael Fairman TV caught up with Matt and Melissa during the 15,000th episode celebration to get their take on: being back for these special episodes, how it has been working with and watching Susan Seaforth Hayes portray Julie’s grief over losing Doug, and how they have supported each other through the years. Check out what they shared below.
Melissa, you are back on the set of Days of our Lives for this very emotional and special moment in the series history. How does it feel?
MELISSA: Oh, my goodness. I am honored. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but to be here for Bill. He was like my real-life dance partner. He taught me how to ballroom dance. And to be here for Susan, of course, who’s just been our sweet hero this whole week. We’re just following her lead. She’s just been this incredibly strong example for us in the midst of this trial and season of her life. She is like just lifting us all up with her. It’s been incredible.
I was at Bill Hayes memorial service which was truly incredible and I know at the time you were in Tennessee. It was moving and celebratory of his life, all at the same time.
MELISSA: That’s all I have heard. I have to watch it on You Tube. They said it was just a real celebration of his life and I love that.
Photo: JPI
This must be difficult for Susan Seaforth Hayes depicting the death of Doug, when she is still grieving the loss of her beloved husband. (Susan pictured above with the returning Stephen Schnetzer who plays her on-screen brother, Steve Olson).
MELISSA: I’m sure Susan has those moments at home by herself, but she’s so good at being a leader and leading all of us. We’re following her, you know, and she’s like, “This is how I want to feel today.” And we’re just going along with her, you know? It’s so sweet.
Photo: JPI
How is it to see Matt Ashford again live and in-person?
MELISSA: You know, Matt and I can go years without talking, or seeing each other, and then the minute we see each other we’re chatting away.
MATT: Melissa was out on set doing a scene yesterday on the phone talking to a stage manager; as she was telling some really tough news on the phone. I’m like crying in the background, literally, I’m off-stage crying.
MELISSA: And then we get like back into normal life, and we’re like, okay, “What’s happening? What’s happening with this … or what’s happening with that?”
I had read, Melissa, that you were in touch with Matt about if there night be a possibility for you to reprise your role as Jennifer for these special episodes?
MELISSA: Yes. Well, Matt was like, “Hey! Would you want to come back? “And I was like, “Matt, you know, I would always come back. ”
MATT: Every time I come here to Days of our Lives, they ask, “Where’s Missy? How’s Missy?” Everybody backstage says, “I miss her.” All of the crew is asking about her and saying, “It would be nice to see Missy. Nothing wrong with you Matt, but …” They said, “Where is she?” I said, “She wants to come!”
Photo: JPI
There are some beautiful photos of Missy and Bill and Susan thorough the years that I found. It just reminded me of just the deep and entrenched history we all have had with the show, personally and professionally.
MATT: Missy is roughly the age where Francis Reid (ex-Alice Horton) was when she started the show, which is just crazy.
Photo: JPI
I’ve always said Missy was going to be the next generation Alice. Do you feel that Jennifer is the heir apparent matriarch of the Horton family?
MELISSA: Yes. I mean, this has been greatest blessing of my life, and that would be great. I told Ken Corday (executive producer, Days of our Lives) when I was 17 that this show would be my life. Ken always told me, “This is your home,” and I’ve always felt like that.
How have gotten through the scenes watching Susan Seaforth Hayes as Julie go through the loss of Doug?
MATT: Susan is bringing her best performance life for her and Bill. I mean, she’s a showbiz baby. She always has been one hundred percent, and she’s doing it for him, and this is who they’ve always been. So, you’re seeing this amazing performance colored by her life. She has her private life as Susan, but she has enough plugged into Julie that she’s done amazing work. The director, producers and writers are giving her room to live in these moments and it’s quite wonderful.
Photo: JPI
Have you already broken down in tears during the taping?
MELISSA: Yesterday, but today’s taping of the actual funeral I think they want us to try and be just more celebratory.
MATT: I mean, it is a beautiful long life for Bill Hayes and his character of Doug Williams, and so it will be about that. Then, you get a bunch of us together in the church pews, and there’s going to be hijinks.
MELISSA: We all have been through the waves of grief. You have that awful cry and then all of a sudden you feel okay. There are those family situations we are portraying where you’re like, “What do we do? What do we do now? You know, no one knows what to do. But, it’s so sweet. I’m looking forward to seeing how the scenes all turn out.
So, are you glad that Matt and Melissa are back for the 15K episode and Doug’s funeral? From what we can tell, it’s going to be quite an emotional journey for Days of our Lives fans, and especially the performance of Susan Seaforth Hayes,
Days Of Our Lives
Ron Carlivati Talks on Decision to Make Days of our Lives 15000th Episode About Doug’s Funeral, and Previews Chances for WGA Award
This week, Days of our Lives celebrated the taping of their 15,000th episode. In of it itself, that is an incredible accomplishment for the long-running soap opera currently streaming on Peacock.
However, this on set gathering was a bit different. Though the show is celebrating their achievement, they are also in the middle of taping scenes surrounding the death and the funeral of Doug Williams, played by the late Bill Hayes, who passed away on January 12th of this year at the age of 98.
As previously revealed many longtime favorites are back to honor Bill and the character of Doug including: Gloria Loring (Liz), Melissa Reeves (Jennifer), Matthew Ashford (Jack), Maree Cheatham (Marie), Victoria Konefal (Ciara) and Stephen Schnetzer (Steve) to name but a few.
Photo: JPI
Michael Fairman TV was in attendance and spoke with Days of our Lives head writer, Ron Carlivati to gain some insight into how the 15,000 episode was crafted and the decision to honor the character of Doug Williams and Bill Hayes as its epicenter. In addition, Ron weighed-in on this Sunday’s April 14th WGA (Writers Guild of America) Awards, where he and his writing team are facing off with General Hospital for the daytime drama prize. Here’s what Ron shared below.
Was this your idea to make the 15,000th episode centered around Doug’s funeral and passing?
RON: It was. When you’re looking at it, and laying out the calendar for the whole year and you see 15,000 is coming up, we’re like, “What are we going to do?” And then, we got the news that Bill had passed away and something kind of clicked. I was like, “We should honor Doug on that show.” So then, we started to kind of build around that … when does he pass away? How does he pass away? Who could come back? You know, it’s a lot. I’m very pleased with the returns that we got as there’s so much that you could do. We wanted everybody we could get. So, we put together a wish list and Janet Drucker (co-executive producer, Days of our Lives) made it happen.
Photo: JPI
You have Melissa Reeves back as Jennifer, when the role was last played by Cady McClain. What has it meant to have Missy back for these shows?
RON: It was so nice to see Missy Reeves. I think Cady has done such a good job, but on the 15,000th episode to see Missy as Jennifer, it’s a big deal. So having her was great, and overall, the milestone was a big undertaking, because you want to live up to it. You want the 15,000th episode to be good. Now, it has a lot of real emotion that you’re playing. because for the cast and the crew they’re honoring Bill Hayes just as much as we’re honoring Doug Williams.
Photo: JPI
Was it hard for you and the team to write this episode?
RON: Yes. I’ll tell you why it was hard to write. When I wrote, for example, Asa’s (Phillip Carey) death on One Life to Live or Victor’s (John Aniston) on DAYS, Asa is a different type of character. Like, you could have characters going, “Oh! I’m glad he is dead.” You could have different points of view, but with Doug, you’re not having that. Every person loves this man. No one had a bad relationship with him. So, you’re challenge as a writer is how do you make it that not everybody’s saying the same thing and doing the same thing. And so, we tried to find ways to make the episode about all the familial relationships and yet, how do you make it about Doug and yet broaden the scope.
Photo: JPI
I had spoken to Susan Seaforth Hayes (Julie), a week after Bill’s memorial, for an interview. She said that she felt very fortunate that you did include her on discussions of how you would tackle Doug’s passing. How did that conversation go?
RON: First, I attended Bill’s funeral, which was incredible. I said to so many people it was an emotional service, but it was hard to be sad at this. The guy had an incredible life and it was an incredible celebration. And so, you’re sitting there watching this knowing that you now have to write something similar. And how do you write something that lives up to what you just witnessed? I wanted to talk to Susan to get her thoughts about, you know, how much do you want this to be about keeping Bill separate from Doug. How comfortable are you sharing your grief. She was incredible to talk to. It was a great chat.
You’re in the middle of taping these major scenes for the 15,000 episode to air in December. How do you think it’s going? Have you seen any of the scenes?
RON: I haven’t seeing anything. I mean, we were still making changes to the script up till this morning!
Photo: JPI
The Writers Guild Awards are this Sunday, April 14th and once again this year there are two daytime drama nominees, General Hospital and Days of our Lives. How are you feeling about your chances this year?
RON: It is often just GH and us in the category. I’ve won three years in a row, so I’m kind of feeling like it’s their turn.
Photo: JPI
What episodes did you submit for contention? If I recall, they had to do with Victor’s memorial.
RON: The episodes we submitted were centered around Victor’s funeral. I think one has story with Vivian (Louise Sorel). We had some fun stuff, we had some emotional stuff at Victor’s death, and I am pretty sure that our submission was three episodes right around that time.
Did you make the decision to go with those episodes because there was a mix of humor and drama?
RON: I like to have some humor, but it was also the funeral, then there’s Sarah (Linsey Godfrey) giving birth, and then Vivian’s crashing the reading of the will. So, we had a lot of fun and it’s hard sometimes to pick three that tell a story, as opposed to submitting for the Daytime Emmys, where the writing team only submits two shows. So, we shall see how it goes on Sunday.
Courtesy/Peacock
So, are you looking forward to the emotional 15,000th episode of Days of our Lives? Do you think DAYS will take home the WGA writing award for daytime dramas for the 4th year in a row? Comment below.
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Correction Thaoo…you are’ The Phantom Of The Soap Opera’….lol
“…well said”
for all that’s not on right… going as was planned.. and or too tumultuous
Thaao Penghiss has been nothing short of riveting
( for me ) when the stories are not working… direction.. or not all their
it becomes a “FANDOM” experience
Thank you Thaao : for a making … Andre a Phantom of the Opera
very much in the same vein and context of ; ‘Father” the DiMera Phoenix IS
You are phenomenal, whether you are playing evil, or are lovable. We are so glad to have you back with us so thank you with all of my heart for coming back to play in the sandbox.
You would be a phenomenal writer for this show because you know all the history
thanks for sharing your insights and information about Mr. Mascolo..despite his physical limitations, he was still giving it his all..Stefano, as he portrayed him, was iconic..just like JR Ewing on Dallas..but the best part was watching Mr. Mascolo bring Stefano to life..you always knew that Mr. Mascolo was having the greatest time being Stefano and that was the genius of the man and a true measure of his talent..no matter what Stefano got up to, it was always a hoot watching Mr. Mascolo pull it off…even the dressing up as Elvis scene..Mr. Mascolo and Stefano will be missed tremendously but they will never be forgotten and their true fans will always be grateful and treasure the memories
Nicely said.
Interesting that they showed a picture of Leann Hunley when it was mentioned that Andre might have a romance. I would love for her to come back. She’s an excellent actress and the 2 of them working together would be wonderful!
What would “Tony” say to that, Mark?
I agree it would be wonderful if Leann Hunley were to be brought back on DOOL. Personally, I have always believed that Leann and Thaao Penghlis have been romantically involved for years. That’s why the chemistry is always so wonderful between them.
I’ve always had a feeling that Thaao Ana Leann were a couple too. Would love to confirm it.
I love watching him as Andre and love to hate him! Wasn’t thrilled with the rape but I do like his taking Chase as a protegee.
Thaao’s da`man!
And! he is a true gentleman…
I don’t care for the character of Andre and his absurdly villainous demeanor.
Right now, the show is really lacking something in the way of storylines. Please understand that I know that every storyline doesn’t satisfy EVERY viewer, so, that being said, I still think right now the show needs improvement.
I totally admit that I started first watching the show a little over two years ago to see what would happen between Will, Sonny, Paul, Paige and JJ – but with most of those characters off the current canvas, I don’t know, the show seems like it is lacking
something.
I like Gaby, but I’m not sure the chemistry between her and JJ even begins to match
the unity of JJ and Paige and what they went through because of Eve. Now even Eve is not around, at least she was interesting.
Claire arguing with her boring mom Belle doesn’t do anything for me, and Ciarra getting raped by her stepbrother was badly acted and not even interesting, though I know the subject matter is serious.
For those of you who love the show right now, that’s great – right now for me it’s not terribly compelling.
I agree with most of what you say Jim. But, I am hopeful for a relationship between Gabi and JJ. I think Casey Moss and Camila Banus are really good performers. I just hope TPTB give them something meaningful to do. I’m sure they can deliver.
Andre is wonderfully kooky. What do you expect from a man who has been declared criminally insane? Now if only Corday would bring Leann Hunley back. Thaao gives a masters class in acting every day.
I’m with you. I came on board DOOL to see how the gay theme with Will and Sonny was handled on national t.v. So the writers decided to drop that pioneering plot by killing off Will and sending Sonny to Paris, leaving the only remaining gay character, Paul, by himself with no one to interact with except John. I don’t care for a lot of the old characters they have brought back: Belle, Claire, Steve (although he is a good actor), Phillip, et al… and yet they plan to bring back Aiden and Ben. Where’s Clyde in the mix? lol. At least he was a great villainous actor. I really only stayed around for Stefano as he was my most favorite character on DOOL. And now that he is gone I’m fast forwarding through most of the shows and only watching characters I like: Maggie, Andre (please get out of jail!!), Nicole, Brady/Theresa, and Victor. I hope Thaao Penghlis as Andre is given a strong and enduring presence. We need the bad boy now that Chad has turned his back on being a Dimera by embracing his family man role. I hope DOOL hasn’t jumped the shark.
WOW, BO is gone, Adein is gone, Matrearc , Alice Horton is gone, Patrearc, Tom Horton are gone, now, “STEPHANIO”, I have watched this, Iconic show since day, ONE. AN, I am SAD, It seems too me, we hit, 50 yrs. , I feels like, ” we’re nearing the, end., to, ME., & THIS FOR, ME PERSONALLY , IS VERY. SAD & HEARTBREAKING., !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I like the way the show is going! Yes!! I miss some of the great ones like Daniel, and EJ but that’s life!! I am very happy it’s on….people should never hate a person doing their bad guy job!! It wouldn’t be worth watching if everyone on the show were all nice guys!!!
I agree that there have to be “bad guys” of course, but they shouldn’t be so superficially villainous ~ No one is “all” bad and no one is Mother Theresa (well, except Mother Theresa) either ~ I think Andre (both the character and the way he is portrayed) is just a little too over the top and smirky (is there such a word?) for me to process and absorb seriously. When a character is so cartoonishly devilish it disintegrates the integrity of the show.
I respect your post… I just wonder.. was it all done in hindsight.. to feature… that much more.. how Hope and Rafe are propped and marquee thee SHOW
at the expense of bringing back characters , beloved… from the past.. and that includes fighting with abandon… writing so… repugnant
off course.. seriously… all this to justify how beloved Hope and Rafe must be
Is Daniel gone, Elle? It seems to me he’s more present than ever. His heart is in Brady’s Chest. His past is in Brady’s dreams. Brady was actually able to track down and save the life of the woman from Daniel’s past. Nicole feels close to Daniel through Brady’s new heart. Maggie still has a part of her son to dote over. If “Summer” is another egg baby of Maggie’s, then we have Daniel to thank for uniting Maggie with her newfound daughter!
Daniel, Daniel, Daniel…I’m so sick of Daniel! It’s a sick joke to kill Daniel for all the people that wanted him gone, only to have him featured even more!!!!!
your last para; may as well slay me
it’s a sick joke right… I’m sorry Arianne Zucker… but… when Daniel was featured… in EVERY ‘THING” he was the godfather of soul… the godlike man who fixated … ugh!
gag me… he walked on water… made every thing right ?!?!
seriously Josh Griffith and Dena Higley… hard ONe to swallow
get it over with…. Daniel the effervescent, Daniel comes first… all that is… Salem… he outlasted and lorded over everyone… game set and match… lights camera action… Daniel Lord Jonas
forever
I don’t know how… the actors… Brady and Nicole.. can look each other in the eye.. while all the talent has moved on
A sick joke? No, it’s storytelling. A character shouldn’t die on a soap and then there’s no fallout and it’s like they never existed. It’s smart to show how a person’s life can have a ripple effect on others after they are gone.
Great interview with an amazing guy. Thank you for this, Michael.
Are you THE A Martinez? If so, you’re doing an amazing job on DAYS!
Thank s for that, 4ever !!! Hopefully I’ll get to do something soon with the great Mr. P !!!
the respect and value your person carries your profession is a beam of light
a trigger … of firestorm… and YES!
what it means to fans… who have watched for decades… CARE for this genre… unlike NO OTHER feature, will ever be
my heart warms .. when actors share their journey… a keen insight and intellect is yours
love A Martinez
I’m so glad to hear Thaao calling out people in social media for their rudeness and judgmental ignorance. I’m online quite a bit because of my work and have learned to not look up spoilers and read what others are saying because, like Thaao, there’s too many times I want to reach out and slap people. It was especially painful for me watching Stefano in the last several months and then getting shot as Joe and I shared a mutual friend many years ago and I have fond memories of our friend sharing stories with me. It didn’t help that he looks so much like my father did at one stage in his life before he died and that I’m watching my mother deal with many of the same things Joe is right now.
Actors are hard working people with feelings, as are most of us. I hope people will think twice before writing such mean and hateful comments about them in social media. It’s one thing to discuss a storyline and the direction in which it’s going, but it’s a whole different game when you’re trashing an actor like the young woman who plays Ciara who was tossed into some very heavy scenes with quite a lot of dialogue to learn. She’s working her tail off right now and is still in the learning stages, yet I saw people saying horrible things about her online. How would you feel if people were saying the same things about your little sister? Or your daughter? It’s sad, really, that some people just aren’t happy unless they’re complaining about something. Personally, I’d be very upset if strangers were constantly critiquing my work without knowing exactly what it is I do and how hard I work to do a good job.
Here’s to 50 more years of Days and to all the actors and the behind-the-scenes crew, I’m very appreciative of your hard work that allows me to escape reality for an hour a day. For 45 or so years, you’ve been like a favorite book of mine that I occasionally will put down for months at a time, but one I always enjoy picking up again. I can’t wait to see what you’ve got in store for us in the future!
Thank you for sharing… that the internet is it’s own media
for an actor.. to not know .. the inroads of all that encompass press
then they have no business reading in to critique
a personal sojourn .. be it in a professional capacity or a heartfelt path that one knows… is just that.. their own
my personal sensitivity is not taking on any more or less… is it? reading MORE into is your own questionable foray…
whew!
I really want to hold Ken Corday Productions; ACCOUNTABLE
he … by legacy choice… reigns… in the footsteps of ; his parents
superlatives galore
Betty and Ted Corday dreamed magnified and stood aligned that their feat pass on.. and delight with everyone… crew. cast. audience… and that monies pass to and fro as expected
I will cheer magnify the importance and delight and critique… to the betterment of this staple
Ken Corday… help us
Brilliantly put!
While I feel Thaao is doing a great job with the character, I do have one complaint. Andre is always dressed in the most bizarre costumes. The jackets they put him in don’t fit. He looks like the Pillsbury Doughboy trying to play Devil. Surely this master villain can afford better clothes.
Love you Thaao!!! You are such a great actor and you are knocking Andre out of the park!! Love watching all of your scenes. So glad you came back to DOOL!!
Thaao is always fun to watch!
I love Thao and really miss him playing Tony. I’ve always hoped Days would resurect Renee. Loved Tony and Renee back in the day.
Bravo to Joe for giving us so many years of enjoyment.
I wish they didn’t have Hope murder Stefano. There were so many other ways to go with this, I don’t understand the need of writers to have moral characters do immoral things. Yes I suppose under the right circumstances we are capable of doing terrible things, but in soaps for the long term it will be easier to have the good guys be good and the bad guys be bad. How are they going to redeem Hope now? Yes she could have shot him in a moment of madness, but covering up the crime for months, makes it appear more like first degree murder than second degree or even manslaughter if she had come clean when she did it. Honestly a part of me wishes they let Stefano live, even if Joe couldn’t play him in person, just believing Stefano was out there pulling strings etc would have been a way to keep the character alive–and causing trouble. The Phoenix should have lived as long as the show did. IMO.
I agree that Stefano should not have been killed. He should still be out there a la Sally Spectra on B&B. And with Hope killing Stefano, the character of Hope has been destroyed.
So not happy with so many stories on Days right now. I would be fine with them just saying, you know what, we made some mistakes, forget about what happened, we’re starting fresh now.
GAVEL : please tell me this isn’t SO… ( i’m only 3 eps behind)
“…DAYS fan favorite Thaao Penghlis, who is currently finding his dark alter-ego going to prison for a crime he did not commit ”
I will be livid… if this is how easy… Hope and Rafe get off…. scott free
argh! I can see this happening… how could Hope and Rafe not be let off… with their scheme…. these dirty pigs
OK : at ease… this is a serial
what with Hope and Rafe being pivotal characters… central to Salem!
argh! Andre is just that much more interesting… ( his acting since his beloved father, died; has been tantamount.. to Thaao Penglis having ALL the FUN on that DAYS studio lot… let your mind wander… take in his extraordinaire )
Rafe… is just that… Rafe’alicious… more than pulling his weight and carrying with… he certainly hasn’t faltered in the upper echelon with Eduardo…. that being A Martinez.
and Hope.. well.. she’s beginning to tire…
if the writing of Hope… is not seen caring for and supporting her daughter… I will really be seeing so much gone awry and wrong with Ken Corday Production
I hope Andre … for all that’s left of the DiMera.. and lacking… with content and characterization… that DAYS production focus on Andre and let him be… the writing for him and his stepping up to the plate… is the most revelatory time in Salem
argh! – last paragraph – should read
* and lacking… with content and characterization… meaning; most all else that’s going on in Salem
Andre and Chad DiMera… are far and away carrying DAYS
Days Production… focus on Andre; and let him be… the writing for him; and his stepping up to the plate.. is the most revelatory time in Salem
New Audience Members : I’ve posted before… and will boisterously stand
Days of OUR Lives would not be… a 51 year SHOW OF SHOW
had it not been ; for the masterful… ARTPIECE sophisticate magna cum laude Joseph Mascolo
“I just LOVE him”
Kristian Alfonso
argh
I will not relent… she’s only good in two capacity;
1. w/romance
2. bonding with family
she’s tour de force in those arena
“… When (former DAYS co head writers) Josh Griffith comes along, he says, “No, let’s make these characters human.” ”
so… this was done… to externalize.. and layer… the forever enveloped as in protected lived in a bubble… ????
seeing just what Hope is capable of … ??? without Bo or Aiden… on her OWN ?!?!
is that possible ? when it seems like Rafe and all the men in her life.. come to her rescue… let her off the hook…
is she that worth it?
I will bring in to question… just how strong… an actress is Kristian Alfonso
just as I will continue to knock down… Jenny Bear
I know their worth and history to the show… but not at the expense of good actors
When Thaao Penglis tweeted… you won’t believe what’s on the horizon… come January and February… with the DiMera ( not verbatim)
“…also what is does to Andre’s spirit and faith, because it was shocking”
all the fallout is landslide… shocking recovery… hope springs eternal, now ! that “father” is not in the lead… Chad is completely irgnorant… ( or is he) and it would seem… Andre is left to “his” own device
?? I don’t think he’s coming from … well , he was institutionalized… that’s not the DiMera creed… Andre want’s to know… what happened to his beloved father… argh! hence I’d be royally pissed ! at Chad… for not … regardless.. if he was “adopted in to the family…. ” and lived outside of the DiMera force… he knows the bond and loyalties that bind all else !
seeing.. that concurrently.. Andre is the lone DiMera royale… his mindset means everything to me… till the loyal brigade ensues… that being Peter Blake and his sister Kristen… where the effing is EJ ?
Andre spirit and faith ! i’ll be damned… if they let this go with Andre toiling without means
rolling – LOL
I will do the best celebratory happy dance… should my dazzling take note firepower woman in charge.. Leann Hunley make her debut… once again… with Thaao Penghlis
Party at the Manse… DiMera Royale
“… Andre was looking for a source ”
of course, he sought out Chase
he was a means to an end… and just filibustered and entangled Andre machinations …
for what? to make .. Hope and Rafe choices to look outside the confines of law uphold
let’s lay blame.. and place blame.. on the DiMera.. and the audience will cheer on blindly and stupidly… the catholic principles that the Horton and Brady abide… simply la la land.. let the chips fall where they may… and stink on shit the DiMera
consequences be damned… the moral compass and feature of turning ones eye on Hope.. ??? REALLY
and take Rafe with her
duh! OK i’m dimwitted.. and without a sense of humor
let me just throw away my compass and forget.. even without STefano… the DiMera will always tax .. will always fester.. will always benign.. will always wont not
just saying… it’s a cause celebre to pedestal and forefront all the characters of DiMera
Wasn’t Andre a serial killer back in the 80s. He never paid for those crimes because he sank into to quicksand and was believed dead for years. How is he able to still roam free?
i really loved this interview – it was very well done – i have seen thaao during a live interview and his presence is very commanding – i must say i so agree with him on the nasty responses from fans thru social media – i used to love to read the thoughts & opinions from fans about our beloved soaps but i just can’t take the rude & harsh criticism towards the actors/actresses any longer from the internet trolls………….jmo
I found Chase and Andre’s conversation yesterday to be disgusting and offensive. Since Chase knows he raped Ciara, let’s hope he turns himself in, but with Andre as his mentor, that’s doubtful.
I have lost all respect for Hope. As the daughter of two cops, Ciara should have called the police after the rape. Or told Jen when Jen came hope.
I am just so disappointed with this so-called reboot.
Thaaooooooo, yay!
Thaao’s great, whether he is playing as Andre or Tony. This role reversal has been interesting to watch. I like to see the human side of the Dimera ‘s and both he and Billy Flynn have been phenomenal. Flynn is one of the best new actors on the show and works very hard. I can’t wait to see what happens next! How great would it be to see Thaao working with Leeann Hunley again? That would be awesome, as we have seen the dark side of Anna in the past as well. They have amazing chemistry.
While he is a vet, and certainly a talented one, I feel he overstayed his welcome about two or three identity (Tony/Andre, Tony/Andre) swaps ago. I have never thought the character worked without it being Tony and Anna. They were a dazzling, delightful couple that soaps just do not write anymore. They had style and panache. All through Jim Reilly’s tenure, “Tony” was written as a pathetic lovelorn fool chasing after his adopted sister Kristen, and also “killed” half the town and placed them on an island. Going way back to the 80’s, Andre was the Salem Slasher. He brutally stabbed and murdered several women, including his sister/fiancee (?) Renee. Four words for soap writers (this includes Franco, the serial killing child art therapist on GH) …THIS IS NOT DEXTER!!! I know Su will disagree, but I don’t find ANY entertainment value in watching a multiple serial killer who encourages a teenager to rape a young girl. HOW far into misogynistic violence against women and girls is this show going to go?? I just don’t get the character of Andre. I’ve never understood his throughline other than he is just nuts, enjoys being evil for evil’s sake, takes delight in other people’s misery, and loves abusing women violently. With Joe’s retirement, I say it’s high time for the show to turn the page, turn the corner, and move on. Soap writers are so stuck in a rut on some things and ideas. Is there some unwritten rule that states that every DiMera has to be evil? Why not have Chad take his place as head of the family, and try to do good things? He could certainly be thwarted in those attempts by any number of villains. I long for the classic days of soaps when the good guys and couples fought the bad guys. And after a lengthy storyline arc, the good guys would triumph and the villain was banished. That’s what we all want in life, to be happy and for the good guy to emerge victorious, so why is it such a foreign concept these days in our entertainment?! Entertainment is called entertainment because it’s supposed to be entertaining…see how that works? A steady stream of Grim, dark, disturbing, violent, bleak stories is just depressing and exhausting to watch. Thaao is right when he says that these are not happy times we live in. So why does our entertainment need to reflect that?? Why not have it reflect what soaps USED to be about when they were SUCCESSFUL and HIGH RATED?? Love, romance, glamour, fantasy, etc. I am not saying cut out the drama at all. Drama doesn’t mean grim, dark, and disturbing. Like what Santa Barbara was trying to do before all the in squabbling and network interference began. Does anyone remember the first Capwell house? As a young child, I DREAMED about that house. It was fantasy and escape. That set was gargantuan, confidence in soaps was high, ratings were large, and soaps were built around romance and love as their foundations, not mobsters, misery, and murder. Nowadays most soap sets look like high school plays, funerals have 3 people plus 2 extras in attendance, weddings look like a few old friends bumped into each other at the mall. I think Joe and Thaao are class acts. I wish Joe health and comfort in his retirement. I wish Thaao had come back as charming mischievous Tony, instead of brutal serial killer Andre. That’s just how I feel.
I agree with almost everything you said, re the dark story lines. we care about the characters and want to see them happy. It seems the writers don’t care with so many of the cruel twists recently for Hope, Jen, Ciara, Chase. But they can’t bring back Tony now. He actually died in an argument with Philip on the pier. There was this big thing where Stefano blamed Philip for it. It made more sence that Andre returned, but as fabulous as Thao is I can’t see him fitting into the cast long term, the way Stefano did.
Tony is dead and there is, it seems, no bringing him back to life. Can you imagine the outcry if Ted Corday were to bring back Tony and not Will and/or Bo? I happen to enjoy the wonderfully whacky Andre; strange as it may sound. What is missing is a wonderful “foil” like Bart was. It was so much fun watching Bart and Andre play off each other. Andre needs another Bart!! And it would be nice for Andre to find a little romance along the way.
I’ve watched my mother’s old video recordings of Santa Barbara Episodes. OMG!!! What an unqualified bore. No wonder that show was cancelled. It should be been called the “loooong and continuing saga” of the most uninteresting group of people in the world. Watching those old episodes of Santa Barbara was more painful than having a root canal.
There would be a huge outcry, Mel, because Ted Corday died in 1966. You mean his son, Ken.
I think days is on the verge of self destruction! Higley is not the writer to respect history nor is Ryan quan! It will go back to being a disaster! I stopped watching for a long time because of the influx of an all new cast of dullards! I will be leaving days behind when quan does it again!
Ng
!