Days Of Our Lives
Drake Hogestyn Exits Days of Our Lives … But For How Long?
Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins
Looks like Kristen’s (Eileen Davidson) machinations has John and Marlena (Deidre Hall) right where she wants them! And next week is a critical point for Jarlena fans when after the trust, and the one thing John values most in this world, honesty, appears to have broken down between the long-suffering couple.
On the heels of that, it will pave the way for the exit of Drake Hogestyn (John Black) as previewed in this week’s Soap Opera Digest on newsstands now.
Hogestyn will last be seen on next Friday, January 18th’s episode of DAYS when John leaves the canvas for a short while. But how long will he be away? How will it affect the war between Kristen and Marlena? A DAYS spokesperson could not be reached for comment.
However in this week’s SOD on what facilitates John’s exit, Drake Hogestyn revealed, “John says he needs space and that he’s confused.”
So soapers what do you think of John exiting Salem? Do you want to see Drake return to the the soap sooner than later? Let us know!
Days Of Our Lives
DAYS and ‘Supernatural’ Alum Jensen Ackles Joins the Cast of Justin Hartley’s CBS Series ‘Tracker’
Look who’s joining Justin Hartley’s hit freshman drama, Tracker! None other than another soap alum, former Days of our Lives and Supernatural favorite Jensen Ackles.
In a reveal via Hartley’s Instagram on Thursday, Ackles is set to play Hartley’s on-screen brother on the CBS procedural drama. In Tracker, Colter Shaw is estranged from his brother, Russell, which has been a big part of the mystery of season one.
Ackles is best known for his long run as Dean Winchester in The CW’s Supernatural, a role he reprised in the prequel of the series The Winchesters. He also recently starred in ABC’s Big Sky as Sheriff Beau Arlen and in The Boys as Soldier Boy.
Photo: CBS
Jensen was the original Eric Brady on Days of our Lives, a role he played from 1997-2000, before departing for the world of primetime and film. Eric was in love with Nicole played by Arianne Zucker. The part of Eric was recast with Greg Vaughan taking over the role in 2012.
Photo: JPI
In his Instagram post, Justin thanked everyone for watching Tracker, and then revealed Ackles as the surprise casting announcement in the role of Russell, while Jensen was playing pinball in the video! No word yet on when Jensen’s first episode as Russell will air. Stay tuned.
Check out Justin’s casting post featuring Jensen Ackles below. So, what do you think of Justin and Jensen playing brothers on Tracker? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
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Days Of Our Lives
Wally Kurth Talks on His DAYS Daytime Emmy Nomination, His Emotional Scenes, and Remembering John Aniston
During our 2023 year-end honors at Michael Fairman TV, we named Wally Kurth as our pick for Best Overall Performance by an Actor for his double-turn as both Ned Quartermaine on General Hospital and as Justin Kiriakis on Days of our Lives. So, it was absolutely no surprise to us that Wally landed a Daytime Emmy nomination for his riveting work as a grieving Justin in the Supporting Actor category for the upcoming 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards.
On DAYS, Justin had been put through the emotional wringer, of first, losing his beloved Uncle Vic, played by the late John Aniston, and then finding out that Victor was the supposed biological father to Justin’s son, Alex (Rob Scott Wilson). If you didn’t reach for the hankies during some of Kurth’s work in these scenes, we don’t know what will make you do so.
Michael Fairman TV caught up with Wally to get his reaction to his fourth Daytime Emmy nomination in the last six years. Kurth was nominated in the Supporting category in 2018, 2020 and now 2024 and Lead Actor in 2021.
In addition, Wally shares what scenes were on his nominated reel, how John Aniston impacted his work, how he has changed as an actor over the years with a new outlook, and being the only actor out there with two long-running roles on two long-running soaps, and much more. Here’s what Wally had to share below.
Congratulations on your well-deserved nomination. You decided to submit yourself this year for Emmy contention in both Lead Actor for GH and Supporting Actor at DAYS, correct?
WALLY: I did. I thought the DAYS reel was a little more dramatic, much more emotional. I had thought with the way the judging goes that it might be a little bit more, winnable, if you will. I enjoyed and was proud of my work at General Hospital, so it’s all good. I’m thrilled. It’s always nice to be nominated.
Photo: JPI
What scenes did you ultimately choose for your Supporting Actor reel?
WALLY: I started chronologically, as always, trying to tell a little bit of a story. I actually started with a scene where Justin has to tell Maggie (Suzanne Rogers) that Victor’s (the late John Aniston) plane went down and it was not found. Then, the scene with Bonnie (Judi Evans) where I sort of have to let it all out, and grieve the loss of this man who was practically Justin’s father, but it was his Uncle Vic. We have a little scene talking about Victor, and then there is a short snippet at the funeral where Justin eulogizes Victor. Next, we jump to scene where Justin discovers the letter where Angelica admits that indeed Victor is Alex’s father (Rob Scott Wilson). So then, Justin has to tell Alex, and then I also sort of grieve the fact that I’m no longer his father. Justin basically lost his son. It was very dramatic and very emotional. I was guessing the judges would be like, “Hey! Enough with the crying! Stop, you big baby!” But, they didn’t. They must have thought that it was convincing enough that it felt really truthful at how Justin was upset about these two unfortunate realizations.
Photo: JPI
You bring up a really good point. I talk to actors all the time about crying on Emmy reels. Sometimes, many feel it might put voters off. But obviously, this time it worked well for you!
WALLY: What I liked about the crying scenes was that, like in real life, you’re not crying all the time when something bad is happening, right? I think crying happens and it takes you off guard. It happens without you realizing it. These were all moments when Justin was alone, really. Bonnie comes in the room where Justin is just kind of like dealing with it. And then her coming in, opens up Justin and she is there to hold him. I think that often happens in real life. I thought that was correct for the writers to do that, you know, that Justin would break down when he was alone.
Photo: JPI
Did you feel the pressure of wanting to get these scenes when Victor died and at his memorial, just right due to the enormity to it, and to do justice for John Aniston?
WALLY: I allowed myself to use my heartbreak over John Aniston. I loved him. I just sort of allowed his presence for me in the scenes. It was sweet. It was good for me. I’m just thinking about it now and I feel teary-eyed. John was such a sweet man. He led by example, and he really did teach me how to be a professional actor, and he was a mentor. He never told me anything specific, but he was just John, and in the scenes, this was the time for me tell him how I feel.
Photo: JPI
Then, you had the heartbreaking scenes with Rob Scott Wilson where Justin tells Alex he is not his father!
WALLY: I thought that was just really challenging material. As I get older, I just trust the material, and don’t get ahead of myself. I trust myself with the emotion. Just let it happen if it happens. When I first read it, I kind of imagined what it could look like and then you just let it unfold from there.
You’ve got Robert Gossett (Marshall, GH), A Martinez (Nardo, The Bay), Mike Manning (Caleb, The Bay), and Bryton James (Devon, Y&R) all in your category. Robert has won two Daytime Emmys in a row, last year for Supporting Actor and the year before for Guest Performer.
WALLY: l love Robert. I worked with the character Marshall on General Hospital, and we had so much fun. He’s a great guy and a really good actor. A Martinez is the best guy ever. I have such admiration for him. Whenever I see him, we always really connect and to be in included with him is great. Bryton James, I don’t know, but I know he beat me in this category in 2020. Mike Manning, I didn’t get the opportunity to know when he was at DAYS as he weren’t in scenes together, but I hear good things about him, too.
Photo: JPI
When you are judging Emmy reels, what do you look for when you’re voting on a performance?
WALLY: That’s a really great question. And because let’s face it, there’s just a lot of terrific talent in daytime. This year, I judged two categories. I don’t just go with, “Okay, who’s crying the most.” I really try to go with the one who’s touches me the most, who surprises me and moves me. And so, if you go with that, you’re probably going in the right direction. I also think that upfront you do need to kind of give them something in the first couple minutes that shows you know what you’re doing and don’t make it too repetitive.
Who did you first tell you were nominated?
WALLY: My manager, Michael Bruno called me. I was in Chicago with my daughters having a late breakfast and I knew the nominations were going to happen around 11 am Chicago time. I didn’t tell my daughters about what was happening, just in case, I didn’t get nominated. So, when Michael called, I went, “Oh, boy!” I told my daughters who were sitting at the table with me. So, they were the first two people that I could tell, and that was really nice. We had champagne which was really funny because I bought three little glasses of champagne, and as soon as I bought it, we toasted. They said, “We don’t really like champagne.” So, I ended up drinking all three glasses. (Laughs)
Photo: JPI
What do you think of Eric Martsolf (Brady), your Day Players Band member, and DAYS co-star getting a Lead Actor nomination?
WALLY: I remember, I was like talking to him and I was like, “Eric, are you going to submit yourself?” And he is like, “I don’t know. I don’t really have anything …” And the next thing you know, he’s nominated. I’m like, “Wow! I guess he found something!” (Laughs) I love Eric. I have such respect for him and his gift, and he works really hard. So, I was very happy for him. I’m glad we weren’t in the same category, however.
How many years now have you been playing Justin on DAYS?
WALLY: I started here 37 years ago in 1987. I was there for four years and then I left. Then, 18 years later, Ken Corday (EP, DAYS) invited me back in 2009 and I’ve been on the show now for 15 years. So, I guess a total of 20 years on and off over the last 37 years. Everyone remembers 1987-1991 … those were big, big years for Justin and Adrienne who back then were a supercouple.
Photo: JPI
Have you determined who you would thank in your acceptance speech if you win this year’s Supporting Actor Daytime Emmy?
WALLY: I feel like this year I kind of have an idea of what I would say. I think I can remember all of that without writing it down. If I had gotten nominated for both shows, I was definitely going to point out and thank the powers-that-be for giving me dual citizenship and how much I appreciate that. I do think that being on both soaps, I will go to my grave believing that it’s made me a better actor. In fact, since I’ve been doing both shows, I’ve been nominated for Daytime Emmys. I’ve become a better actor. I feel like maybe it’s just that I’ve gotten older and wiser, but I feel as though when I go in there to work, I’m really focused and I’m really prepared. I know I pretty much get one shot to get it. We’re in the business of “one takes” now in the soaps.
Photo: Peacock
People are so lucky to even have one enduring role in their careers, but you’ve been able to have two, and they’re completely separate characters on two legacy shows; one which just turned 61, General Hospital, and the other Days of our Lives which will soon celebrate 60 years, as well.
WALLY: I didn’t plan on it. I must have done something right. Back in 2009, Ken called me up and invited me back to DAYS. I really jumped in. I’d been out of work for four or five years. I went back with a whole new attitude about the work, about the genre. In 2004, when I left General Hospital, I was kind of burnt out. Looking back on it, I didn’t have a good attitude and I was just done. I was kind of tired. New writers come in and sometimes, when you have new writers that look at your character differently, it can be very difficult, because you just know that their passion is not with your character. However, in this case, I’m like, “I’m going to take whatever the writers give me and do the best I can and do my job. Let the writers do their job.” I think the writers also know that I really respect them and I’m not going to complain. I’m not going to tell them what to do and I’m going to stay out of it. They have enough to work out. They have enough to do. I’m going to be the problem solver, not the problem creator. There are enough problem creators. Believe me when I tell you that every time I leave those sets, I’m like, “Thank you. I love it. See you the next time I see you.” I know how lucky I am to do both shows and to have this opportunity to act at my age and still be sent scripts. I love the art of acting. I’d do it for free. The fact that they’re paying me and I am able to do this and work with these great, wonderful, talented actors every day, it’s kind of mind-blowing.
So, will you be rooting for Wally to take home the gold in this year’s Outstanding Supporting Actor in Daytime Drama Series at the 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards on June 7th live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+? Let us know if you remember his nominated scenes from Days of our Lives via the comment section below and how they affected you.
Days Of Our Lives
Lisa Rinna Would Be Down to Reprise Her Role of Taylor McBride in ‘Melrose Place’ Reboot
When Lisa Rinna departed her popular role of Billie Reed on Days of our Lives back in 1995, her next major role would be a jump to primetime and the soapy Melrose Place.
In 1996, Lisa was introduced as new character Taylor McBride and stayed with the Fox young adult sudser for three seasons. Now in 2024, with the recent reveal that a Melrose Place revival is the works with Heather Locklear, Daphne Zuniga and Laura Leighton all on board to reprise their signature roles, would Rinna board the project should it come to fruition?
Speaking with PEOPLE, Rinna expressed, “Well, gosh, I’ve heard about it. I haven’t been approached or anything, but I would love to see what Taylor McBride is up to 25 years later. Wouldn’t that be something?”
Photo: FOX
OG Melrose Place fans know that in story, Taylor moved to the Melrose Place apartment building with her husband Kyle played by Rob Estes. However, Taylor had her eye on Dr. Peter Burns played by former GH star Jack Wagner (ex-Frisco). But, by the time she had moved to the apartment complex, Peter had married tough as nails ad executive, Amanda Woodward, played by Heather Locklear.
Recalling her time on Melrose Place, Rinna added that it, “was one of my greatest and most fun acting experiences, playing Taylor and working with Heather and the whole crew.” Rinna also noted, “So if they need a Taylor McBride appearance, they know who to call. I’m around.”
Photo: JPI
The new Melrose Place is in development at CBS Studios. In the premise of the reboot, the Melrose Place residents reunite after the death of one of their friends, “but the pressure cooker of a reunion soon uncovers old traumas, rekindles old romances, reignites old resentments, and reveals new secrets… throwing our characters into chaotic drama that’s reminiscent of the past, but with a much more modern perspective.”
So, would you want to see Lisa Rinna reprise her Melrose Place role as Taylor McBride? Comment below.
Y&R’s Allison Lanier Lands Her First Daytime Emmy Nomination and Shares “Being a Recast Can Be Daunting”
REPORT: Nicholas Chavez Not Returning to General Hospital
DAYS and ‘Supernatural’ Alum Jensen Ackles Joins the Cast of Justin Hartley’s CBS Series ‘Tracker’
Jack Wagner Open to Making an Appearance in ‘Melrose Place’ Reboot and Shares, “You Never Really Die on a Soap”
Wally Kurth Talks on His DAYS Daytime Emmy Nomination, His Emotional Scenes, and Remembering John Aniston
‘Knots Landing’s’ Donna Mills and Joan Van Ark Reunite for Los Angeles Ballet Season 18 Gala
Ellen Travolta Makes Another Return to General Hospital
‘Tracker’s’ Justin Hartley on His ‘Passions’ Soap Start, “They’d Have Me With No Shirt Walking Around a Hospital for Three Weeks. It Was Ridiculous, but I Loved It.”
The Young and the Restless and General Hospital Actress and Writer, Meg Bennett, Passes Away at 75
REPORT: Nicholas Chavez Not Returning to General Hospital
REPORT: Nicholas Chavez Not Returning to General Hospital
Cameron Mathison Previews New Game Show ‘Beat The Bridge’ (Promo)
Y&R’s Michelle Stafford Talks on Her Lead Actress Daytime Emmy Nomination, Allison Lanier, and ‘Pacific Palisades’ with Finola Hughes
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Nina Confronts Ava for Sabotaging Her Relationship With Sonny and Signs the Divorce Papers
AEW Dynasty: Swerve Strickland Becomes AEW World Heavyweight Champion, Jack Perry Returns, Will Ospreay Retires Move After Scary Finish
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General HospitalApril 21, 2024‘Knots Landing’s’ Donna Mills and Joan Van Ark Reunite for Los Angeles Ballet Season 18 Gala
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NewsApril 20, 2024The Young and the Restless Preview: Ashley’s New Alter Emerges
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Days Of Our LivesApril 19, 2024Stephen Schnetzer Talks On His Return to Days of our Lives and Working with Susan Seaforth Hayes In Emotional Episodes
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General HospitalApril 22, 2024Ellen Travolta Makes Another Return to General Hospital
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Days Of Our LivesApril 17, 2024DAYS Alum Tanner Stine to Appear in ‘Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story’ Starring Nicholas Chavez
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Breaking NewsApril 17, 202451st Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Set to Be Announced
This sucks. Not a big fan of Drake but I love it whenever Marlena and John have pivotal stories- I LOVE Deidre Hall.
Deidre and Drake get no respect from TPTB…
Sorry, everybody, but now that John has left town, let’s have Marlena go look for him .. and let it take a LONG time for her to find him. I think these two have been on DOOL way too long .. and one of the reasons they keep them is because Days is CRAZY about flashbacks!! Their acting skills have NOT improved….Good luck in your future endeavors, Diedre and Drake…..
Linda
I really miss John Black and hope to see him back with Marlena soon.
There both great actors. Also miss Bo very much too. Hope to see them all
together again. Not really the same without them.
come to GH as Jeff Weber or a Cassadine or long lost Spencer or someone from Jessie Brewer or Audreys family…..
Always thought he would be great as Jeff Webber!
Yes, I agree, Drake would be AWESOME as Jeff Webber or a recast Ridge on The Bold and The Beautiful!
Yes, or even a whole new character on DAYS.
I’m prettty sure that this exit is story dictated only, and that it is on a temporary basis. I don’t think DAYS would ditch Drake right now when he’s involved in one of the show’s hottest and most current storylines.
I think he’ll be back soon.
I agree he will be back, but it would be fun if he bought someone else to town with him- perhaps a recast Bo?
Better yet – the real Bo [Peter Reckell] & Stefano!!
Oh Chloe- I would love PR to come back, but it sounded like he left not under the best of terms with his former bosses. Therefore, I doubt if he would come back unless there was a lot of work behind the scenes to bring him back, but I heard no such rumblings, so I would rather see Bo recast than MIA altogether.
I think Bo would return to town, but Peter Reckell I’m pretty sure has no desire to return to the series. Plus, I got tired of always seeing him with Hope, a character I do not like. Maybe they could lure back Robert Kelker-Kelly and Julie Pinson as Bo and Billie!
I follow PR on twitter – whenever he’s asked about coming back he always says things like “never say never” or “we’ll see”…sounds like he would come back with the right story line. His character was allowed to go by the wayside and be boring… this character shoule be anything but boring! Bring the 80’s Bo back!
He’ll come back if the $$$ is good. That’s the real reason he left. He wasn’t willing to take a cut in pay.
Sorry, folks, but nobody can replace Peter Reckell as Bo Brady. Just wouldn’t be right!!!
IM PRAYING THAT HE DOES COME BACK I LOVE AND THATS A FACT.ROBERT KELKER KELLY WAS A GREAT BO AND HE COULD BE AGAIN.
It’s total nonsense!! As usual the J&M fans are screwed…Hopefully he is only away for a week or 2.
Sooner rather than later! It was just starting to get good, John and Marlena were getting involved, the momentum was just picking up, not a good time to send off John. Where does that leave Marlena? Why have they been taken out of their own story? Don’t get it.
The way the article is worded it sounds more like the actor needs some time off for personal or professional reasons– been a fan of DH for a long time, so I hope there isn’t any serious problem here- would like to see John Black back in town as soon as it is possible, but more importantly I hope whatever DH is confused about gets sorted out quickly for his sake.
My bad— misread the last line of the article, he was talking about his character John being confused not himself- well that’s a relief- so this is just a story line thing, so if DOOL shoots 3 months in advance- doesn’t the media already know if he is working or how long he was gone for?
Mary it’s NOT Drake’s idea to leave at all. Also, John would NEVER act this way to Marlena; from past story lines.
Thanks Pam- realized my mistake about two seconds after I posted my comment. It just goes to show you have actors and characters become so interconnected that for a second I forgot his name was Drake not John. I think John leaving must be some plot device- perhaps the ISA has recalled him to duty for some mission that he can’t tell Marlena. Then while away he will either run into a recast Bo or perhaps this will mark the return of Stefano. It does seem strange he would leave Marlena after all they been through, so the writers must have something up their sleeves.
Not happy that the writers are having John leave town, so out of character. No atter how angry or upset, he would NOT leave Marlena and Brady with Kristen still lurking around causing havoc…….If the writers and execs need to give vets some time off, I could give them a couple of suggestions…………..Not Drake or Deidre!!!
While Drake is off screen I will not be watching at all! Drake is an exceptional actor and is the reason I tune in. Until he returns my TV will stay off!!
I agree..that story is just getting going. Why would he now leave? Kristn just cracks me up and her wreaking havoc in salem is putting some DRAMA into the town.
Do you even need to ask Michael? Of course we want him back soon! They can’t let that witch Kristen tear them apart. And Days is insane for letting that loyal, talented man go ANYWHERE!
the plot would be wasted without JB as the basis for KD revenge. Must be a vacation due DH, hopefully he and JM (stefano) will be back soon and rev up the drama
what’s the deal with Stefano? when is he back on the canvas full-time? I had thought he’d a been back when Kristen returned. I miss him and Kate… would like to see all the DiMera’s living at the manse.
TPTB needs to get it together days is going down hill fast… they need to bring more vets back if not the show will continue to lose ratings
makes one wish.. DOOL did the same thing as GH… and brought in NBC stars from Another World.
I can’t falter GH fans… and OLTL…. if DAYS had been on the bandwagon… as well.
Days has a large and loyal fan base. What those in charge fail to realize, older people have watched days longer then the younger actors have been alive. Drake is one of our favorites, We have spent years not Days of Our Lives watching and being a part of his story lines. It is not fair to the seniors that have tuned into this daytime drama to lose, the most beloved actor in our age group.
Please reconsider Drakes swift return, you owe it to your loyal older followers. We are no longer teens, we need John, Marlena, Victor, Caroline, Etc………..to remain as important characters, they are the generation of our time………..Thank you, Please bring Drake back ASAP. Debi Clarridge, Lancaster, Ohio
I didn’t see this coming.. as well….. ???? it has to be a vacation… and or personal leave… as DH has had this in the past. I hope and wish him well personally….
John and Marlena… Victor, Maggie, Caroline, Kate… LOVE YOU.
I have to agree… this storyline and/or triangle was just heating up….
Patrick, it;s NOT Drake’s idea to leave. He LOVES the show!
They shouldn’t be writing him out in the FIRST place! I think the show can only BENEFIT from bringing him back front and center SOON, rather than writing him as leaving town and “running away,” which is NOT something John Black would do! Drake is the most underrated and least appreciated actor in daytime, despite what a gracious and accommodating person Drake is with everyone in real life. I hope last week’s episodes have opened some eyes to what a terrific actor he really is – something his fans have always known. He doesn’t deserve to be benched for ANY amount of time – especially since DAYS was only renewed for one year! If they have ANY hope of getting their ratings up and staying on the air, THEY NEED DRAKE! Come on, DAYS – it’s not rocket science! The fans know more about what’s good for your show than YOU do, apparently! Bring John back to town to deal with the John/Marlena/Kristen storyline where he belongs!
Amen, Sister! John Black is one of the best if not the best actor on Days and once he’s gone, that’s it for me!
YES I want Drake/John to return!!! ASAP!!!! Get rid of Kristin for good!!!
I think it Sucks that John is leaving Days! he is embattled in a good story line with Marlena and Kristen! He would never do that to his family!
I am really hoping Drake returns very soon. It would be really stupid if the writers make him stay away from Marlena. this Brady/ Kristen storyline needs John (Drake) in it or else the whole story would not work well. Drake is a great actor and he would never leave Marlena, Please don’t keep him gone for more than a couple of days.. We need Drake!!!
Days is gong down hill fast! I like all the vets ! They should bring back Peter and Drake and Joe ! I have been watching Drake since 86. I grews up with him being roman! I don’t really want to watch the Teens and Daniel and Chloe and Jennifer. I think he needs to come back and make up with this wife and stop Kristen and brady needs to go away! I think the VETS make the show! Bring Drake ASAP!
Annie Bradshaw
Twin Cities , Minnesota
Bye Bye John. Can Marlena go too!!! Snooze!!! They don’t have the IT any more!!
Clearly my answer is later much much much later ! Wong miss those scary face expressions
Why I think Days is going down hill fast because of all the Teens ,Sami and Rafe and EJ . I think the VETS make the show . Like Peter and Kristian and Dee and Drake ! YOu should also bring back Joe Mascolo!
How about he NEVER returns!? DOOL needs to recast the role of John. Drake can’t act to save his own life.
You are very wrong Michael. Drake is a wonderful actor. He has proven that more times than i can count. I want him back ASAP.
I agree, Drake is a very powerful actor, always has been. These bashers hate his personality in real life too, say he is too active and talks with his hands too much. Ignore them, I have for years.
Michael, Drake is a wonderful actor & one of the better ones on DAYS. He’s VERY loyal to the show as well! TPTB do NOT appreciate Drake or his talents apparently or they wouldn’t push him out of his own storyline! Drake is even better in person! He appreciates his fan base. That’s a FACT! No one could play the role of John Black besides Drake. He NEEDS to be back to work tomorrow!
I argee with the ladies Micheal. We want him back ASAP!
Well, all I’ll say about this is I’m leaving WITH John. Thank you Michael very much for letting us know January 18th is when John leaves town because now I don’t have to bother watching on January 21st! Drake Hogestyn has always been a phenomenal actor, but last week he raised the bar and has been nothing short of stupendous. He can play ANY emotion – hurt, sarcastic, angry, disgusted, and compassionate and is a kick ass emotional actor as well! Drake is by far the most underrated and often unappreciated actor in DTTV, so for a week it was such a pleasure to see Drake given material that showcased the fact the man has incredible acting chops but I should’ve KNOWN it wouldn’t last and Drake would be dumped on again. I have no desire to watch a show that doesn’t include Drake so bottom line is I just WON’T watch DAYS. It isn’t like TPTB care what we think anyway because if they did, they wouldn’t BENCH Drake again after he just got off the bench in October. I also feel this “Kristen” storyline will now crash and burn without Drake in it. Once again TomSell dropped the ball, what else is new.
I couldn’t have said it better Linda! It’s as if you read my mind. Perfectly written. And yes, Thank You John for posting when Drake’s final air date will be.
ooops, I meant to say Michael for posting the final air date. My bad! : – (
I argee with Dee and Linda! We want Drake back! Ken Corday doesn’t have a clue to what he has in the Vets! Let’s go with the Teens and the characters who are good in own right but bring back Drake and Peter and Joe Mascolo ! His parents would be rolling over in there graves if he need it was destroying the greatest soap !
WONDERFUL POST, LINDA! Very well written, send this to the soap opera press.
He’llbe back. This is just like Dan’s exit last year, it was only short-term. I agree about Jarlena not getting the airtime they deserve, or any of the vets for that matter. The vets either get short-term storylines already used in the past (Kristen’s return) or random short scenes (Lucas and Billie). I’m tired of the Sami Show. Bring back DAYS!!!
WHAT A HEADLINER?!?! This just Smarts…. this is not good for the uphill grind DAYS is in… the one storyline that’s keeping FANS interested.
if this is for personal reasons… Drake… take care… and come back to your 2nd Home.
Nope, Drake is fine, he never asked for time off.
It makes no sense at all why they would take Drake out of the mix. This is not the John Black of old. He would have understood Marlena’s reasoning and stood by her side. He would be there to fight Kritter with Marlena and try to make Brady understand the evil of this woman. TPTB and writers, WAKE UP. Listen to your loyal fans and get John back in Salem pronto. D&D have been a part of our lives for so long, PLEASE bring them back together. It is my understanding they are filming three months in advance so it would seem to me sites as this one would know if Drake is back to filming.
Drake leaving has now given me a reason to leave Days. Drake is a really fabulous actor and really the only reason I continue to watch Days. This show has gone down the toilet, it isn’t the show my grandmother got me hooked on and quite frankly I’m shocked it was even renewed. My last day tuning in will be Friday until Drake is on my screen again.
Well, as a long-time fan, this is the news that broke the camel’s back. I accepted when Peter left because not only is Drake a gifted actor but he also plays a very realistic hero, but I will not accept losing Drake too. I’m on vacation from watching DAYS unless Drake comes back.
I see how this works now at DAYS, get rid of actors like Drake who are wonderful actors and continue to fill the cast up with actors that can’t act, what are TPTB thinking? This move is also my ticket out of Salem. I’d appreciate a heads-up Michael so I know when to tune back into DAYS once Drake is again on the canvas. He makes the show, he isn’t your typical cardboard actor and when he acts he does it with feeling. I have a long list of actors on DAYS that could leave and I wouldn’t blink an eye but of course Drake wasn’t on that list. I’ve been meaning to stop watching since Tomlin started killing this show with his awful writing and Drake leaving has now cemented my decision.
can we compare our lists, I bet we would match!!
James (EJ), Eric (Brady), Shawn (Danny), Chandler (Will), Freddie (Sonnie), Alison (Sammy) Galen (Rafe) that is my dream GET RID OF list yet they’re all Tomlin pets so they’ll be with DAYS until the show dies.
I agree with everybody on that list.
That is my list too, get rid of Eric especially.
I want John back sooner than later. This is what soaps do for me–I like the happily ever after fantasy. It sure beats other programs that are constant failures in relationships. John and Marlena should be able to work things out. No one is perfect and forgiveness is a necessary part of a marriage.
What is the purpose of writing Drake off? He finally gets a storyline and then, is let go. I do not like the character of Kristen. There has to be another way, to write a good story for John and Marlena. And where is Stefano? I thought he returned to the show.
These writers have a lot to be desired when it comes to story line. Drake should never have been written out in the first place. I agree, these writers get rid of the experienced actors and think we want to see people everyday that are so stuck on themselves and those who think the world evolves around them. Tired of seeing the 40+ woman act like she’s a teenager and minding everyone’s business. They really need to take a good look at the younger set of cast and realize they can’t act no matter how hard they want them in the storyline. This is another fan that will leave when Drake does. What we need folks is to let the writers go.
Sooner, of course, are they idiots at that show, or what?
HUGE idiots!
ENORMOUS idiots! TPTB of NBC and DAYS are totally clueless regarding what fans want to see.
Drake Hogestyn doesn’t get the respect he should from TPTB. Drake is very loyal to DAYS. It’s a real SHAME! The current head writers don’t seem to know how to write for a complex character like John Black. Drake has fans of ALL ages & his fans are legion. For example, Drake now has over 10,000 followers on Twitter. I don’t understand why they would keep one of their lead actors off the show. IMO Drake should NEVER have been let go in the past & shouldn’t be now! Drake is my favorite actor on DAYS since he started in 1986. I have been watching DAYS for 40 years now. Maybe they should replace the writers instead of the actors like Drake. Pretty much all the time now the romance & humor have gone out of DAYS like in the 80’s & 90’s.Where are the Super Couples for example? Drake & the rest of the VETS are under appreciated for sure! IMO Drake Hogestyn doesn’t need to be gone anytime at all!
I want Drake back ASAP. You told us this would be like it was be for a family helping each other and romance. I have not seen any of this since John was in jail. Please get this story ine with Kristen over with soon. Brady was only 5 years old when she left. This is sick to see him with some one that was going to be his stepmother i think it is gross. Please get some writer that can write like Sheir Anderson. Now she can write a good John and Marlena story with out any problem. What Happen to the Days 2.0 YOu said we would get.
SOONER for me, I love Drake and he acts circles around the men on DAYS. If anybody should leave town it is the other Black, Brady who with his barechested look every day seems to think he is God’s gift to women (he isn’t).
I’ll return to watching once Drake is back, my blood pressure needs a break from this crappy show anyway so thanks Drake for giving me this DAYS vacation.
I agree Tamera!
I don’t really love looking at a red waxed chest. I’d take Drake’s anyday 🙂
ROTF, ditto, Brady and his little boy chest makes me sick. Drake is a gorgeous man and his body is beautiful. TomSell are jealous because they can only dream of looking like Drake does.
Me too Tamara! I don’t need to see any waxed chest. I need to see Drake!
haha!!! glad I’m not the only that likes chest hair. lol..
ROF at “little boy chest” HAHA!
LOL, I love Drake’s chest hair too, finally, a real man on DAYS, not an over-waxed man wannabe.
Once again these so called writers have found a way to infuriate all of the John and Marlena fans. It makes NO sense to have John leave at this time. Days needs to find writers that are willing and able to write for all the characters, not just a chosen few and that know the rich history of these long time favorites.
Deidre and Drake are the heart and soul of Days and should be treated with the respect that they so richly deserve. They are not just the super couple of Days, but of all of daytime. There is not another couple that has been together as long as they have and been
through as much as they have!!
Drake should return ASAP to put an end to all this Kristen mess.
You said it rea. They have both been in the 1 spot in We love soaps for so long. Drake has been in the 2 spot a few time but not many. We all want our super couple back together ASAP. John would never leave Marlena in less she ask him to and she sure did not ask him to leave this time. Get new writers that can write a story that has not been done be for. This old stuff is getting boring.
Mr Evans you said in a interview on VTV News you hope to make it to 2015.I will tell you this that if Drake and Deidre do not stay on this show the rating will drop. See all of us that love John nd Marlena do not like the way these storys are going . First John would not walk out on Marlena for any reason in less she tells him to leave. You said we want romance and love. Well John and Marlena have more love for each other than you can shake a stick at. They have been tought much to be together and your writers just pull them a part over some thing dum. This Brady and Kristen story makes me sick. He was 5 years old when she left town. Please get some writer that know what happend back then and know the story.
Here we go again, didn’t Drake just go through this in 2007 and in 2009? This stupid Kristen/Brady storyline didn’t actually get good until they put Drake in it yet they’re letting him go for a few weeks? Drake has always been a very powerful actor and he becomes magnificent when he is given scripts that show off his acting talent which is what took place last week. How TIIC could even think of getting rid of somebody that knows the acting craft and is the face of DAYS I’ll never understand. My prayer to the Soap Gods is he is only gone a few weeks but knowing Salem time, it will be much longer. Like several have said already, I’m going to take this opportunity to turn off the show and wait for DAYS’ best hero to get back to Salem. Salem is a boring place without John and Drake and I don’t plan on wasting my time watching something I don’t enjoy.
I have been a Days fan for over 30 yrs. and a huge Drake fan. I think TPTB need to do their homework when it comes to John’s and Marlena’s history. John would NEVER turn his back on Marlena and leave her alone especially with Kristen around! He would’ve stood by his Doc and planned a way to get Brady away from Kristen and send her out of Salem!
Days fans are loyal and we are not afraid to voice what we want! Drake is a lead actor and is seldom given the spotlight as he deserves. He deserves to be in lead story lines, he’s earned it! He is a superb actor and he proved so last week. He was on fire! The fans want MORE Drake! We want the super couples, the romance, the crazy antics, the stuff that Days is known for!! Our beloved vets! Bottom line – Without John there is no Days! John and Marlena ARE Days!
WOW! Talk about weird – I went to the doctor yesterday and was told DAYS OF OUR LIVES is making me sick. It has greatly affected my BP and overall stress level. I was told to give it up for my health and being that I love watching Drake, I decided to break doctor’s orders and continue to watch it. With this news this extraordinary actor will be of my TV set for weeks or months, I can now obey my doctor and give up DAYS. I gave it up every time he was let go and didn’t start watching it until he returned in 2011. You bet your sweet tush I’m going to give it up again if this show even thinks about letting such talent get away.
Cindy, you dont need to stop watching Days, you need to find urself another doctor! Any dr who would tell u a tv show is bad for ur health is a quack!
Maybe her doctor is a former DAYS fan. 😛
My partner, Jason and I have been long-time DAYS fans but we’ve always gravitated toward Drake. He is a FAB actor and his character shading, mannerisms and soap nuances are brilliant. We enjoy watching how he works a scene. With that said, DAYS has become so piss poor in terms of writing and over-all production that we actually find ourselves taping the show and only watching back scenes Drake is in. This John, Kristen, Marlena, Brady storyline was just picking up steam yet they go and remove Drake from it. This decision not only has us scratching our heads but also feeling really angry because Drake deserves to be treated well and respected and this show is doing anything but. It is no longer about escaping our lives, now it only gives me a headache so this casting move has now forced our hands. We’ll tune back in once we hear Drake is airing again, but not before that.
Drake is my all time favorite actor since 1994 so I’m done with DOOL until they bring him back. It isn’t hard at all to walk away since this soap is a former shell of itself. I think NBC were on crack when they renewed it for a year. It reminds me of somebody who cheats on a test but gets an A+ yet they didn’t deserve it. DAYS is like that too. There is so much wrong with this soap but TPTB do not listen to our complaints. Getting rid of Drake for a few weeks is their first of a long list of mistakes they continue to make. He is a wonderful actor and you won’t meet a nicer man yet they continue to use him to promote DAYS yet won’t give him storyline. I’ll watch his last show and after that I’m through watching until John returns to Salem from wherever they sent him.
Yep, I agree, it is a pleasure to stop watching. Drake is an awesome actor, he doesn’t deserve the disrespect being show to him by his so called “family” at DAYS.
Patrick and Michael, please do not let your jealousy make you bias. Drake is a vetran actor and deserves what that title brings with it.
I agree, if the writers would listen to the viewers opinion, maybe the ratings wold go back up.
Unfotunately, Peter Reckall, made the decsion to retire, on his own behalf.
Drake has always played this character and to replace him wold be Days final downfall.
I will start watching again when the bring Drake back, left them the last time, will leave them again.
Sorry, spelling error. Would and they typing to fast.
ROTF at how the Drake bashers are all MEN! Like I said they couldn’t be more transparent and it is getting so old.
LOL, yep, all the Drake bashers say the same thing too, just under different names, you’d think they’d be more creative. The reason Drake has had staying power for 25+ years is because the man CAN act!
Agree, 100%. We need him back.
I want him back, It is why I watch to see the Best super couple ever do their magic!!!!
Being a long fan of Drake’s, I am once again hurt by the fact that his talent and passion for his work is being put on the back burner. When he and Deidre Hall were brought back to the show this time, a lot of the true die hard fans came back with them. The chemistry between Deidre and Drake is like fireworks. They both care deeply for each other, but more so for the show. They bring grace and royalty to the day time canvas. In a time when “Soaps” are becoming a thing of the past, I would think that the writers/producers of a well loved soap would want to do what it took to keep fans tuning in each day.
I hope that this is a short term absence for Drake and that “the powers that be” realize what an asset he is to DAYS and what a loyal fan base he has and with that fan base comes a lot of viewers that won’t be watching the show as long as he is off the air.
Having met Drake numerous times, the one thing that you take away from an encounter with him is that he truly cares for his fans. He appreciates their loyalty and does his best to make them feel as if he wouldn’t be where is he if it wasn’t for his fans. I know I will be watching on Friday the 18th, but can’t guarantee I will watch after that.
We will miss Drake immensely.
Perhaps Drake is filming something outside the show? One of the reasons I returned to Days last year (after a 9 years hiatus!) was because Drake & Dee returned so I hope this time off for him. Love John Black, always have!
No, he isn’t, that was confirmed already. Drake didn’t ask for any time off. He does have another job outside of DAYS but this other job doesn’t require leave time from DAYS. TomSell hate John and Drake suffers because of it.
I hope this is the reason he is not on, that he has another project or movie in the works or a nightimenon soap type character he is working on
We want John to never go! He’s the reason I watch the show!!!
I’ve been watching Days since it began. I was six then. I lI’ve the show but it’s becoming a teen soap with a few extras. I love Drake and John. The show isn’t the same without him. Please bring him back. We need our vets. Not many young people r as loyal or in to soaps as older viewers. If Drake is leaving I hope he goes to GH. It is awesome now.
So we’re stuck with the forced pairings of Jennifer and Daniel who are about as exciting as a wet tissue. Gabi and Nick who have NO history nor interest. Sami and who-the-____-CARES-anymore–I love LOVE Ali Sweeney, but lets face it, Sami is supposed to be in her mid 40’s and she’s still acting like a teenager when it comes to men? How hard is it to choose between a man who treats you with respect and love (Rafe) and the man who raped her (EJ)?!?! Seriously?!!. Without John & Marlena as the foundation couple – much like Tom & Alice were – the show is a complete travesty. Days back in the day had J&M, Bo & Hope, Patch & Kayla, Abe & Lexie, Kim & Shane…now it’s got people who meander about suckin down coffee and whining about complete nonsense. Nothing against the other actors & actresses but I have NO interest in watching Days without John and Marlena.
If he doesn’t come back there will be a lot of viewers gone. He and Deidre were let go once and brought back because the fans want them. We want a great storyline. We were robbed during the NuJohn storyline ending when they were let go. They have been so much of the show and that needs to continue!