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EXCLUSIVE: B&B's Brad Bell Talks On The Heartbreaking Episodes Of Stephanie's Goodbye Party & Says There is More To Come!
Courtesy/CBS
Soap fans who watched Monday’s and Tuesday’s episode of The Bold and the Beautiful were in for heart-wrenching drama at its best, times ten! That is because as Stephanie Forrester’s goodbye party played out, it just got sadder, and sadder, and sadder, with each little beat and moment played to perfection by the entire ensemble cast and caught on tape brilliantly by the production crew. Of course, the standouts that broke our hearts were Susan Flannery (Stephanie), Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke) and John McCook (Eric) who rose to the occasion and did not disappoint in what needed to be a powerful moment in the soap’s history.
On-Air On-Soaps caught up with series executive producer and head writer, Brad Bell, the mastermind behind giving daytime legend Susan Flannery, and her long running character of Stephanie Forrester, a proper exit storyline befitting her and what she has meant to the series and fans worldwide. We wanted to know if Brad felt he delivered what he promised to the audience, if he was deeply affected by the episodes, why the decision to make the party Irish-themed, if there was more to this story to come, and to get his thoughts on the on-screen moment when we saw the passing of the torch from Susan Flannery to Katherine Kelly Lang on yesterday’s episode. Here is what Brad had to say about it all!
Brad, you delivered what you said you were going to do with these very special party episodes where Stephanie says goodbye to her family and loved ones. I needed boxes of Kleenex for the past two days. Did you cry when you watched the episodes back?
BRAD: I did cry. I was just talking to my wife Colleen about this. It really choked me up in many places and I hope that it affected the audience in the same way. She said, “Look, you know these people. You work with them behind the illusions and you see through the illusions, and yet you are getting choked up. The people that are invested in the characters and that don’t have the interaction that you do will be choked up as well and maybe even more so!” But, I do feel like I shot my mouth off and said that we would deliver a great send-off for a great actress and a great matriarch, but I feel like we delivered, and I am so happy to be able to say that.
Were you present on the set during the taping of the party episodes that we saw air Monday and Tuesday? I hear, even the taping of the episodes was an extremely emotional time for the cast and crew.
Courtesy/CBS
BRAD: No, I was not on set that day. Sometimes I have to just give it over to the actors and give it over to the directors, which is what I mainly do all the time. And sometimes, it’s best for me to just look at the script three times or so, and then pass it on and let them do with it what they will, and in these episodes they did beautiful things with it.
I noticed in the episode yesterday, there was key scene outside of the Forrester mansion between Stephanie and Brooke. It really felt like the passing of the torch from Susan to Katherine Kelly Lang in the way the dialog had been written. Was that the intent?
BRAD: Yes. It was passing the baton to the most unlikely of people and the lesson in that, if there is one, is that sometimes people you think are your worst enemies can be your closest friends in the end. If you just open your heart and open your mind, and reach across the aisle, you can make wonderful things happen. So in a political year, and a year of turmoil in so many places, we are just preaching that you can find love in the most unlikely places.
During the last few days, everyone was waiting for Ridge to show up! Yesterday, before Stephanie said her goodbyes, he did not. Does this get addressed?
BRAD: Well, it does get addressed. And in this next episode, you will see how it does get addressed. Ridge’s absence continues to play a role in the evolution of the other characters on the canvas.
Courtesy/CBS
Many in the viewing audiences thought perhaps yesterday’s air show was the second to last episode of seeing Susan Flannery as Stephanie, before her just announced final airdate of November 26th. Is there more of Stephanie’s story to come before then?
BRAD: There are quite a few episodes left. She and Eric take off and she wants to do things on her terms, and she does until the end and it’s a lovely ending.
One of the moments that just had me moved to tears instantly was when John McCook as Eric took to the piano and sang to Stephanie. What did you think of that moment?
BRAD: It got me and moved me tears. I have seen it now three or four times and every time I see it, it gets me. I know John, and there was just so much genuine emotion there.
So I was speaking to your wife Colleen, and she said that the inspiration of bringing on the musical group, Celtic Woman happened when the two of you were watching the Oscar-winning film, Titanic! However, I never knew Stephanie Forrester was Irish! How come you decided to go that way as the backdrop or theme of her goodbye party?
Courtesy/CBS
BRAD: I thought, “What I am going to do that is going to strike a chord in John McCook and Susan Flannery?” I started thinking about it and I thought, “McCook, well that is Irish, and Flannery, she is Irish!” So I thought, why not go to the roots of who Susan is and it will resonate out through Stephanie. Susan has never been that in touch with her Irish roots, but I think she became closer to her roots through this storyline. I think this has been a wonderful way to see an accomplished wonderful actress finish her career on a 25 year run of a daytime television show. It is so special.
Susan’s performance over the last two days of air shows takes your breath away as does Katherine’s. They were terrific. It was almost like the most heartbreaking embarrassment of riches, if there is such a thing.
BRAD: Everybody was spot on and great … from Lesli Kay (Felicia) and Winsor Harmon (Thorne), and on and on. Everyone was so present, because Susan demands that because of who she is.
You originally had been quoted as saying; Susan told you when you write her exit story that she did not want to know what was coming. So in the end, did it end up being a written collaboration between the two of you?
Courtesy/CBS
BRAD: No. I would say to her, “Susan, I am thinking about doing…” And she would say, “Ah, ah, ah, Braddy. You’re the writer. Give it to me and I will play it.” And that was it … Susan does not want to be involved in the writing process as much as I don’t want to be involved in the acting side. I can’t do it. Over the years, Susan has earned her respect. She makes the words in the scripts her own, but she takes my ideas and plays them to the hilt.
Do you think these three party episodes were everything and more that you wanted them to be? I know it must be very difficult being the executive producer and head writer, and hoping that your vision comes to its fruition each and every time in the pace of daytime storytelling.
BRAD: Yes. Doing 250 shows a year as we all do in this genre, I am more often left thinking, “What could have been had we had more time?” And with these party episodes, I am just feeling we did what we wanted to do. I am grateful and I loved them just the way they are.
Would you submit Monday and Tuesday’s episodes for your Emmy submission this year for Outstanding Drama Series? In my opinion, you should. It is highly emotional, and it tells a complete story, even though for the viewers there are still plenty of hankie-filled moments to come!
BRAD: I don’t know. (Laughs) I have not thought about it yet! But, that might be a good idea.
So soapers, what did you think of the Stephanie’s goodbye party? Did you reach for the hankies and the Kleenex boxes? What was your favorite moment? Do you feel that Brad delivered what he promised to fans of the show? And if that was not enough, check out the new promo from CBS marking the end of the road for Stephanie Forrester!
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I definitely cried and I loved the Celtic Women and the Irish dancing. I was very moved by Eric singing to Stephanie and overall I am glad I tuned in. But… what I didn’t like was the way the party ended. It was supposed to be a celebration of her life and everyone there was enjoying the party, with no tears as she requested. I thought Stephanie said she wanted to quietly slip out the party, but instead she makes this big announcement she is leaving and they will never see her again.
To me this was quite the blindside. It was like saying ‘did everyone have a good time? Yes, well that is nice, now I am leaving and you will never see me again because I will be dead. Of course everyone broke down into tears and it was moving and touching, but didn’t it defeated the purpose of the party?
I thought she wanted everyone remembering her life and not dwelling on her dying, so I felt it would had made more sense if she quietly left the party with the image of her loved ones happy instead of crying. It was great television, it was moving to watch, but imo, story wise it made no sense to end the party that way.
why is Susan leaving the show is she sick or just tired of working…
she is retiring.
Ms. Flannery, who at the young age of 73 has been playing Stephanie Forester for 25 years and she just wants to enjoy her retirement, maybe do some traveling….She’s a licensed pilot, so she may want to get some flying time in and just enjoy her family….
Susan Flannery said she isn’t retiring in SOD, and that she is leaving the show to focus more on her directing career! Susan directs episodes of the web series “Venice”!
which tells you how she really feels about the present and proposed direction of B&B. Brad Bell is killing this show himself!
Dumb letting her goes. Susan is the show.
I thought the whole thing smacked of propping Brooke to be honest- more about Brooke and how Brooke feels than any the rest of the family- almost more so than Stephanie herself! Far too obvious and much less than it could have been IMO. Disappointed in Stephanies last story being one more thing about Brooke.
B&B has pretty much for the last 25 years surrounded itself with the storylines between Stephanie and Brooke in one way or another!!
what a classy lady. have watched from the beginning. will miss her terribly. cried throughout monday’s show. great writing. please submit this episode for emmys next year. good luck susan in whatever comes your way in the future.you will be missed. thanks for all the great years, laughs and tears.
I loved the last two shows and cried my eyes out. Yes submit this for Emmy!
Susan Flannery did an outstanding Emmy-winning performance in her Stephanie’s Goodbye as well as John McCook. However, it should have been about Stephanie and her family. It almost seemed over-shadowed by Brook’s presence. I understand that her and Stephanie had grown closer, but more personal scenes should have also revolved around Taylor (Hunter Tylo). It should have also focused on more on her children. While I understand this was short noticed, but it didn’t seemed short noticed to have KKL presence all over the screen all the time, which, in my opinion took some of the excitement out.
Mildred, I could not have agreed with you more, and I am so much saddened as to the story’s path. I’ve been, am, and will always be a “Taylor” fan, and the relationship between Stephannie and Taylor was one of the show’s pivotal relationships that Brad Bell has chosen to not honor. In daytime dramas, we seek to experience a “moment”, and I find it unfair the Brooke character had so many “moments” with Stephannie vs. Taylor; or her sister, Pam; or as you mentioned, Mildred, Stephannie’s own children.
This is, once again, the “union of Brad Bell & Katherine Kelly Lang” in their attempt to sell the “renaissance Brooke Logan Forrester Forrester Forrester Forrester Forrester Forrester (so many times married to Eric, Ridge, and Thorne), that truly, those of us, who’ve been watching since 1987, ain’t buyin’ for Brooke was, is, and always will be “the slut from the valley”, according to Stephannie.
This has been Brad Bell’s chosen approach for the past 2 years (or more), and at the end of the day, Brad is God of B&B – in his hands holds the fate of the characters. I’m however choosing to exercise my free will, i.e., once the “Brooke Logan many-times Forrester” show continues (and I’ll take my very last dollar and bet it will), I won’t be watching. There are way too many shows competing for my time – “Good Wife”, “Scandal”, “Blue Bloods”, “Mad Men” to name a few.
What a joke? How many times over the years has Stephannie cried how much Brooke was not worthy of being the matriarch of her family, and Stephannie tells Brooke on Tuesday, “she’s the matriarch”. Stephannie is going to be turning in her grave when Donna comes out to fight Brooke for that place in Eric’s bed come Valentine’s day because 1. reportedly, ain’t no “Bridge” without Ron Moss; and 2. according to Stephie, “dumping a rich husband is not in the Logan handbook”…here comes Donna to widower Eric
This was the best ever,was a great send off!
Brooke will never be worthy to step into Stephanie Forrester shoes. There should never be another Bridge, no real man on this planet would make a bimbo like Brooke his wife or Mother of his children.
Would have liked to see other grandchildren there .
REALLY? I THINK THERE A MANY, MANY MEN WHO HAVE MARRIED SOME TYPE OF BIMBO.
I thought it was awesome. I really love Stephanie’s character and it will be greatly missed when she is no longer on the show. Mr. Bell, you done a great job on her exit of the show and I don’t know how many Kleenex I went though. Susan, you have been a great inspiration to B&B and to the fans who has watched the show since the beginning. Enjoy your retirement and come and see us every now and again in someone’s dream or spirit. We would love to see you again sometime down the road.
I LOVED every moment of Stefanie’s party. I cried the whole way through it. I hope I get the pleasure of meeting the cast some day! This show has really come a long way. I do watch Y&R for over 25 years, but B&B is the one I can’t wait to see everyday. The storyline keeps turning over and over; no dragged out storylines. It was very upsetting not to see Ridge at his mothers’ party. That one I don’t understand. It depletes the speical bond Ridge and Stephanie shared through the years. Sorry, B&B…bad move.
Incredible, have only watched Monday’s episode but have Tuesdays and today on DVR. Brad Bell the cast and crew did an amazing job. Classy show!
Brooke is the new Matriarch and not Tayhoe and I love it
It was heartbreaking to watch but so well acted especially by Susan Flannery and KKL. It was nice to see how those 2 finally became so close and Stephanie chose her to take over. Susan will be missed but I wish the best for KKL to get some amazing storylines. She is an amazing actress and can show such real emotions.
I have watched since day one and I love it, but I do not think it is going to survive with Susan and Ron leaving the show…
I thought the episode was quite emotional. I was choked up from the time Brooke and Stephanie spoke outside throughout all of the goodbyes. I think all the actors and actresses did a great job. In saying that the most emotional moment was when Brooke and Stephanie had their last goodbye. It is so nice to see how far Brooke and Stephanie have come since The Bold and the Beautiful aired for the first time. I have been watching it ever since and always wanted these two to get along. It is a great way to end Stephanie’s story. Super emotional for me.
YOUR SHOW HAS BEEN A PART OF MY LIFE FOR A VERY LONG TIME YOU ARE MY FAMILY EVERYDAY YOU ARE IN MY LIVING ROOM WITH ME I WILL GREATLY MISS STEFANIE SHE WAS A BIG PART OF THE SHOW YOU CAN BET I WILL BE WATCHING THIS SHOW UNTIL THERE IS EVER A LAST EPISODE (WHICH I HOPE WILL NEVER HAPPEN) JUST KNOW THAT I LOVE THE WHOLE CAST YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB WRITING THE STORY LINES KEEP IT UP LOVE YOU ALL MARLA HECK
It is only fitting that the last scenes be with Eric/Stephanie/Brooke. I was surprised when I watch it that I ended up in tears. Of course, the baton would be passed to Brooke. It is as it should be. Our super couple Stephanie and Brooke will be greatly missed. Susan Flannery, John McCook and Katherine Kelly Lang were superb.
I have never cried so hard during an episode as I did this. It was all beutifully written and all the actors did a fantastic job. Susan will be missed in a big way and I wish her all the best in her retirement. I am looking forward to Brooke taking over as matriarche of the family.
not if Donna has anything to do with it…
I thought the episodes were very emotional and moving. I also believe the theory about finding love in unexpected places and can believe the growth of love and closeness between Stephanie and Brook, but I disliked the downplay of the love and closeness she shared for a longer time in her relationship with Taylor. I understand Brook’s tears, the moving speech, the need to spend more time and be there for Stephanie, but what would have been more real for me would have been to see Taylor there at the end, holding Stephanie in her arms saying goodbye to a woman that has been like a mother to her for years no matter their past differences. Stephanie and Taylor had been there for each other for a long time they even lived together. I felt like you downplayed Taylor’s relationship with Stephanie to build up her relationship to Brook. The same thing was done in the relationship with Ridge and Taylor. I just don’t see the need to diss an old relationship just to build a new one, so in the end I am very dissappointed.
I agre Francene. So disrespectful to the Taylor-character fans, who also experiened history – the ups and downs; the anger and the joy; the pain and the healing – between Stephannie and Taylor. Just for the sake of throwing “new Brooke” in one’s face. I disagree though on Taylor holding Stephannie in her arms at the end. I think that place belongs to her life partner, and one true love, Eric.
The story has definitely improved over the last month. I suppose these major exits brought to realization that having basically one story line for over a year is not what will keep the genre going. I am sure everyone longs for the old days when the story was much more exciting– we need a Sally Spectra like character!
Absolute tears all the way. I will miss Susan Flannery’s Stephanie so much more now..because of the bond she finally forged with Brooke. It was so fitting to have her there in Brooke’s arms in the end as they had developed a true and strong love, respect, admiration, and appreciation of one another. Although Stephanie was aligned with Taylor first ..and longer theirs was a weird..symbiotic, sycophantic relationship wherein their main bond one of was not pure love and respect ..and forged as such. Their mutual bond was borne of mutual hate and forged as a support of one another in that..and their mutually destructive agendas. It’s so much better and befitting that the matriarchal baton was passed from Stephanie to Brooke. ….Kudos Brad Bell. ..This was an excellent one.
I wonder how I might feel someday about someone in whose hands I placed a gun and asked her to kill herselt to make my life easy?
If you had any decency in you at all, and the person was like Brooke, hopefully..you’d end up feeling very, very bad that you ever did anything like that; very glad that she did not take your ill-conceived advice, and very, very grateful that she gave you ‘love’ back instead of hatred..and time to see and correct your error in judgment.
The 11/14 is the best episode of the three — Flannery just nails it and McCook is certainly showing Emmy consideration as well. Stephanie’s character is closing her life on her own terms with her husband… and also provides some insight about why Ridge missed the party. Thank you writers for some excellent dialogue today and a primary focus on Eric and Stephanie.
I lost my Father to Cancer 8 years ago and I never got to say goodbye to him. Watching Monday and Tuesday’s episode I felt like got to say goodbye to him. I never miss B&B and I look forward to seeing Stephanie’s family grow closer after she’s gone. I will miss Susan and her character Stephanie. Good luck to her.
It’s hard to say that I “loved” the episodes, when they were so emotional and sad for all of us. She is an outstanding actress and I wish her well. She will be missed! My best friend and I were very disappointed when our “president” decided to give a speech throughout the entire time. I was fortunate enough to have the internet and was able to see today’s episode. My friend won’t get to see it at all as she doesn’t have access!. I’m looking forward to the November 26, special that will be honoring Susan Flannery! Outstanding job by everyone, only wish it were an hour instead of only 30 minutes.
Thought all grandchildren should have been there not just Ridges.
I’m sad there wasn’t room in the story for Stephanie’s most formidable adversary Sheila. I always felt there was unfinished business between these two women.
I have watched the show from the beginning and yes I did cry these past few days. I have liked Susan’s character, Stephanie, from the beginning and came to love her over the years. Up until today with these parting shows, my favorites have been since she met Dayzee. I am going to miss her on the show. I was disappointed that Ridge was not there. He should have made an appearance. Keep up the good. I will be a FAN forever.
They were very touching, emotional and well done! I definitely had my Puffs ready and they were needed. Susan is so very taleneted and they were not disappointing! She will be missed. I think the next episodes will be even sadder and more emotional. John is doing a fabulous job with these and everyone is great! Excellent job B&B!!!
I have been watching the whole 25 years. Monday and Tuesday’s episodes had me crying and I will so miss “Stephanie”. “Brooke” was the correct character to “lead” the family. She and “Stephanie” had so much history. I wish Susan luck and happiness, but hate she’s retiring. I love Bold and the Beautiful!!!
those were both extremely wonderful episodes filled with emotional scenes. Wonderful job by all at B&B. Hope that Susan Flannery will enjoy the next part of her career as she is still planning to keep directing. maybe she can enjoy her hobbies more too.
Oh please, Brooke? Matriarch? LOL that is laughable at best. She is only good for one thing and that is sleeping with everyone man including her daughters, am I really suppose to believe she is prone to do things like Stephanie done? Wrong and Fail?… just prepare for this show to end I give it less than 2 years. Katherine is a nice person I’m sure, but no way can she carry a scene like Susan did, she never won any accolades in her entire career span and that is saying something in itself. We all know Brooke and Bill will sleep together, she will bond with Katie son only for Katie to get well, stake claim to her son and nag Bill until he comes back. Snooze! I tell, ya Snooze. Those that actually got skills outside of daytime television, need to leave like right now, Steffy it’s time to leave the sinking ship. Susan Gone, Ron Gone the show is done! just a matter of time. Sorry, Brooke fans will not be enough to sustain it’s life line
Brooke is not going to sleep with Bill. If this were 2002, or 1992, yes, but not in 2012. Brooke is new matriarch, according to Brad, and it’s the joke of the year for all of us who’ve been on the B&B journey since inception. With Susan leaving, I won’t be watching. I stopped watching in June, and started back last month to experience Stephannie’s end journey. Once Stephers is gone, so am I
I’ve watched B&B from day one and Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday had me in tears. I felt like Stephanie was part of my family leaving. Writing her out as a terminal Cancer patient felt like I was loosing a relative. It’s good to know she is retiring on to enjoy the rest of her life. Hopefully she will be watching episodes of B & B from home.
I could have done without Brooke being the one to speak for all the people at the party plus involved in almost every scene. Then you have Stephanie lying in her arms during her final hours. Friends or not, Stephanie’s husband, children and grandchildren should have been the focus from beginning to end. As a viewer, I cannot accept Brooke as the head of anything Forester/Douglas, you just don’t come back from how she mowed thru that family for years and she is to be rewarded as their matriarch! Thorne and Taylor should be married and move into the Forester mansion. Every time Hope walks across my TV screen, I remember how she was conceived!
P.S. While Forester is a Scottish name, Douglas can be either Scottish or Irish!
Blame it on Brad, AJ! Blame it on Brad himself for not honoring the history of the show. I appreciate Stephannie experiencing Brooke in a new way – Brooke was there for her in the initial cancer diagnosis. But all the “I love you, honey” is so false when for more than 97% of the character Stephannie’s history, she did not like, neither respect Brooke. I think it might have been more “realistic” and easier to accept if Stephannie’s love for the other characters – Thorne, Felicia, Taylor, Stephie, Pam – was presented more intimately, and there was no “passing of the baton”, i.e., let the matriarch emerge in the form of the woman who Eric chooses to marry next. What’s done is done since we all know Eric is going to marry Brooke, or Donna. The Logan sister battle royale for the role of matriarch!!
Thanks for your reply. In comparison to B&B, I just watched the tribute to John Engle who played Edward Quartermain on General Hospital. At the perennial Thanksgiving dinner, ruined once again with the family having to eat pizza, you see Edward with Lila as apparitions observing their legacy — their family. In the end, they leave the family, venture out into the hallway. Lila (who died some years back) leaves her wheelchair and together they climb the staircase in the home that they shared for years. (And yes, we know it is Monica’s house because Alan gave it to her, lol)
Great interview as usual Mr. Fairman! It was great meeting you Yesterday at the B&B book signing! Thank you for signing my book and being nice enough to take a picture with me! Looking forward for reading your next interview.
I thought that the most emotional farewell that I would have liked to have seen more of was Thorn’s–he couldn’t get near Stephanie without my starting to cry. Of everyone, he was the one whom she loved unconditionally and who was always there for her, even more so than Taylor. I totally feel his pain. So sad, I love my B&B friends so much, best wishes for a great retirement to Susan, so well earned.
I really cried my eyes out!!! I think it was great and I am glad that Susan’s hard work over the years was appreciated!!! I am very sorry to see her go and I truly wish I can celebrate with all the cast members since I am and will always be a fan of the show!!!! Great job!!!!! Love you all!!!!
I will miss Stephanie very much. She was the bold and beautiful!! It doesn’t seem like it has been 25 yrs already. This is worse then when Ridge left the show. He’s not ever coming back and neither will Stephanie. I wish her well in her future endeavors. Stephanie you really are bold and beautiful!!!!
I would like the poem she said to her children on Wednesday show ,it was beautiful as she is i hate to see her go, but understand why.She is a beautiful woman inside and out.
Listen, I have been watching this show for years. Brad Bell has never had any respect for women/children or families. He made Brooke(KKL}LowDown, character into a bed hopping tramp, and many of you jump on the band wagon and made her your hero. Stephanie was hated for not wanting her son’s married too this bed hopping tramp. Could it be because Brooke HO-HO, not only married her so called Soul MATE,Ridge’s, Father, and had a couple of kids with him, but also , she married Thorne, another son, and then Nick. She gave “Who the Daddy”, a whole new meaning, when she hiked her dress up, like a $2.00 hooker, and screwed her daughter, Hope’s, boy friend at her graduation party. Let’s not forget how Hope got here. This career bimbo, had a full blowed affair with he daughter, Bridget, husband, and got pregnant. And this is who Stephanie give the keys to Forrester Creation,(Rick/Hope) her children, never have to work for nothing, but just whine ,whine, whine! Brad Bell, thanks, but no thanks. You can take your non writing skills, and keep pumping out BS like the Katie story. A woman with a heart transplant that had a cc, get released the next day, and reject her baby, and go on the run, is just bull crap.
Susan Flannery (Stephanie) IS the Bold and the Beautiful. I watched her from the time she was on Days to B&B. I will miss my afternoon coffees with this great lady!!!
XXXOOO
Susan Flannery is the reason I started watching the show and sad to see her leave. Absolutely love Stephanie, and did watch even though it was sad. But what ruined the moment for me was Brooke constantly being shoved in our faces on screen when this is suppose to be all about Stephanie.
I’m not buying the OVER THE TOP love Stephanie has for Brooke. It’s one thing for Stephanie to come to an understanding with Brooke, but what Forrester, other than Eric, needs Brooke to take care of them since we know how she treats them all.
Very disappointed in the lack of Taylor, since she has been like a daughter to Stephanie, who took Stephanie in her home when she was kicked out by Eric (and the Logans). I will never believe that Stephanie thought of Brooke as a daughter when Stephanie’s goal was to protect her family from Brooke. Also disappointed in the lack of quality time with Felicia (who survived cancer thanks to her mother) and Kristen, and no special time or hug for Thomas, who will inherit her stock (or will he now lose that to Brooke).
Very disappointed in the ending of Stephanie’s story and will never believe that Brooke can be matriarch of the Forrester family, especially since it was her family that went after Stephanie for revenge.
No one can replace Susan Flannery, the Queen of Daytime TV, and no one can replace Stephanie Forrester.
It’s a 30 minute soap opera that films two weeks ahead of air date. In addition to crafting an exit story and laying out a foundation for the future of the show. The Bold and The Beautiful doesn’t end with Stephanie’s death however Steph’s death needs to propel story and the show.
This is a soap opera. Brad Bell is one of my favorite writers in daytime because he has an excellent grip on laying a foundation for the next generation and I find it fascinating to watch that early beginnings of this new legacy.
While Brad Bell has chosen to have Stephanie die with Brooke, I would have preferred that it was Thorne by her side. The writing decision appeared based upon KKL’s tenure with the show even though the argument is made that the two “mortal enemies” end up at death’s door.
Although three different actors have played the role, Thorne was on the show from the first day. Since the company has been charged to Ridge’s son rather than brother (again, poor writing choice…Thomas leading the company?), Stephanie’s passing was an unused opportunity to provide a catalyst for returning Thorne into greater prominence in both the family and the business (SORA Alexandra and get her in the biz too).
I believe that Katherine Kelly Lang and Susan Flannery started this show together it was more than appropriate for them to end it together.. Kathrine has had to pay her dues on this show over and over…Brad Bell needs to Bring the charachter of Brooke full cirlce and end her Slut routines. People hate on the charachter and on the actress the fans who love Brooke want to see her finally have a decent place in the show…It is time that she become matriarch…she has stayed with this show way too long not to be given the honor!! Tayor has come and gone her performances lack quality and she has not earned position as matriarch! Viewers are dropping from the show since she has moved into Erics home. It is wrong on so many levels. Writers, quit jerking Brooke around and give her deserved and honored spot in your show before even mor fans tune out!
Days Of Our Lives
Eric Martsolf Talks Brady Being Duped & His Co-Stars; Galen Gering & Camila Banus Chat Hernandez Siblings On ‘Inside Salem: Days of our Lives Podcast’
On the latest episode of the Inside Salem: Days of our Lives Podcast, Eric Martsolf (Brady Black) chats with host. Michael Fairman as Brady’s story hits a major turning point! As DAYS fans know, Brady recently hit the sheets with “Nicole” who was Kristen in disguise.
Photo: NBC
During the podcast conversation, Eric explains how he has to sometimes suspend belief to make stories work in daytime which included Brady not figuring out that “Nicole” was Kristen, although it certainly re-ignited his thoughts of her! Plus, he chimes in on the fun he has had working with his co-stars: Arianne Zucker (“Nicole”) and Stacy Haiduk (Kristen/Susan) in their many scenes
Later, Eric tries to remember all of the loves of Brady’s life that crashed and burned, and is posed the question, “What would he think if Days of our Lives SORAS’d Brady’s son, Tate, to an 18-year-old?
Courtesy/NBC
Then, the podcast goes behind the scenes for a dressing room segment where Galen Gering (Rafe) welcomes his on-screen sister, Camila Banus (Gabi). The two banter about their on-screen and off-screen relationship as brother/sister and friends, and how much they value one another as they create the Hernandez sibling dynamic.
To download the episode via iTunes click here. To listen to the podcast via NBC.com/Inside Salem click here.
So, what do you think Brady should do now after the mess he finds himself in due to Kristen’s manipulations? Comment below.
Dancing with the Stars
DWTS Host, Tom Bergeron Not Happy With “Divisive” Casting Choices Aimed At Sean Spicer
Controversy already erupted upon the announcement on Wednesday of the cast of the new season of Dancing with the Stars. Most intriguing is that a statement from the longtime ABC series, host, Tom Bergeron revealed his hopes to the producers that their celebrity casting choices would be non-political in nature, especially after the ballroom dance competition had been on a year hiatus from the small screens.
Following the celebrity contestant reveal, which included former White House Press Secretary. Sean Spicer (who worked for President Donald Trump), the host released a statement via his Twitter account. In it, Bergeron noted that he’d had lunch with the show’s new executive producer and had suggested some ideas for the show. Chief among them was that DWTS should avoid casting someone with “ANY party affiliations.” When he left that lunch, Bergeron says he was convinced that would be the case.
Bergeron expressed: “It was my hope that ‘DWTS,’ in its return from an unprecedented year-long hiatus, would be a joyful respite from our exhausting political climate and free of inevitably divisive bookings from ANY party affiliations.” Then he said, “Subsequently (and rather obviously) a decision was made to, as they often say in Hollywood, “go in a different direction”. He went on to say, “It is the prerogative of producers, in partnership with the network, to make whatever decisions they feel are in the best long term interests of the franchise. We can agree to disagree, as we do now, but ultimately it’s their call. I’ll leave it to them to answer any further questions about those decisions.”
DWTS new EP Andrew Llinares, then said in a statement. “We’ve got a great and diverse cast. We are excited about the season,”
You can see Bergeron’s tweet in full below.
Some thoughts about today pic.twitter.com/aCQ4SHrGCI
— Tom Bergeron (@Tom_Bergeron) August 21, 2019
So, what do you think of Bergeron’s hopes for the casting choices of DTWS? Would you have preferred Sean Spicer to be cut from the cast? Who would you have liked to have seen cast on the series? Would you want any celeb you like to even go on it any more? Comment below.
Breaking News
Dancing with the Stars Season 28 Cast Revealed: From The Bachelorette’s Hannah Brown to Ex-White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer
This morning on ABC’s Good Morning America the celebrity line-up was announced for the upcoming fall season and 28th edition of Dancing with the Stars. Within the list of competitors are: The Bachelorette, Hannah Brown, former Dawson’s Creek star, James Van Der Beek, and even disgraced White House Press Secretary, Sean Spicer, and the “Uptown Girl” herself, supermodel Christie Brinkley
In addition to the above celebs, showing their best ballroom dance moves will also be: Queer Eye‘s Karamo Brown, The Office‘s Kate Flannery and Kenan & Kel‘s Kel Mitchell, plus The Supremes’ Mary Wilson, Fifth Harmony’s Ally Brooke, and American Idol Season 10 runner-up and now country/pop star, Lauren Alaina.
As for the former pro athletes in the cast; those slots belong to: former NFL linebacker of the Baltimore Ravens, Ray Lewis, and former NBA player (and former hubby to Khloe Kardashian) Lamar Odom.
On the pro dancer side, this season will mark the return of Peta Murgatroyd who last competed three seasons ago, as well as newcomers Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov. In addition, the cast will include the steps of: Brandon Armstrong, Lindsay Arnold, Alan Bersten, Cheryl Burke, Witney Carson, Val Chmerkovskiy, Sasha Farber, Jenna Johnson, Keo Motsepe, Gleb Savchenko and Emma Slater.
This season viewers will not learn of the celebrity/pro pairings till the night of the premiere.
All the moves kick-off on Monday night, September 26th at 8PMEST/7PMCST on ABC.
So, what do you think of the new cast of DWTS? Who do you think on paper stands the best chance of being a top contender for the Mirror Ball Trophy? Weigh-in below.
Eric Martsolf Talks Brady Being Duped & His Co-Stars; Galen Gering & Camila Banus Chat Hernandez Siblings On ‘Inside Salem: Days of our Lives Podcast’
DWTS Host, Tom Bergeron Not Happy With “Divisive” Casting Choices Aimed At Sean Spicer
Dancing with the Stars Season 28 Cast Revealed: From The Bachelorette’s Hannah Brown to Ex-White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer
Hayley Erin Returns To GH Reprising Her Daytime Emmy-Winning Role Of Kiki Jerome
Michael E. Knight Joins General Hospital
Cassandra James Set To Appear in Second Season Of GH Alum Vinessa Antoine’s ‘Diggstown’
THIS IS US Season 4 Key Art Revealed
GH’s Roger Howarth Chats On Shifting From Franco To Drew & The Stunning Story Twist
Drew Barrymore Daytime Talk Show Pilot In The Works
DAYS Promo: What’s Going To Happen At Jarlena’s Wedding Anniversary Shindig?
GH’s Roger Howarth Chats On Shifting From Franco To Drew & The Stunning Story Twist
Kelly Monaco Addresses Billy Miller’s Departure From GH
DAYS Stacy Haiduk and Eric Martsolf Talk Kristen & Brady’s Twisted Relationship : The Mask, The Deception, The Sex
Hayley Erin Returns To GH Reprising Her Daytime Emmy-Winning Role Of Kiki Jerome
Constance Towers Returns To GH As Helena Cassadine … But Just How Does She Appear?
Michael E. Knight Joins General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Franco Looks In The Mirror … And Believing He Is Drew Kisses Kim
The Bold and the Beautiful Ratings Winner With Phoebe is Beth Reveal
Dancing with the Stars Season 28 Cast Revealed: From The Bachelorette’s Hannah Brown to Ex-White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer
DAYS Promo: What’s Going To Happen At Jarlena’s Wedding Anniversary Shindig?
DAYS Promo: What’s Going To Happen At Jarlena’s Wedding Anniversary Shindig?
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Liam Realizes Beth Is Alive As Scott Clifton Delivers Heart-Tugging Performance
David Hedison, AW and Y&R Alum and Star of ‘Voyage To The Bottom Of The Sea’ Dies At 92
THIS WEEK: Eileen Davidson Makes a Return to The Young and the Restless
DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Jack Wants His Memory Back, But Do You Want Him To Reunite With Jennifer … Or Stay With Eve?
How to Get Away With Murder To End After Its Upcoming Sixth Season
GH’s Friz Wedding Reception Set To Bring Romance, Drama & Plot Twists (Promo)
As Chelsea Makes Her On-Screen Return On Y&R; Melissa Claire Egan Looks Back At Some Of Her Most Memorable Scenes
GH’s Trans Actress Cassandra James On Her Portrayal Of Terry: “It’s Not Lost On Me The Importance Of The Work I’m Doing”
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Thomas’ Turn To The Dark Side Is Getting Creepier! What Is His Next Move?
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General HospitalAugust 18, 2019GH’s Roger Howarth Chats On Shifting From Franco To Drew & The Stunning Story Twist
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General HospitalAugust 13, 2019Kelly Monaco Addresses Billy Miller’s Departure From GH
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Days Of Our LivesAugust 13, 2019DAYS Stacy Haiduk and Eric Martsolf Talk Kristen & Brady’s Twisted Relationship : The Mask, The Deception, The Sex
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General HospitalAugust 20, 2019Hayley Erin Returns To GH Reprising Her Daytime Emmy-Winning Role Of Kiki Jerome
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Breaking NewsAugust 13, 2019Constance Towers Returns To GH As Helena Cassadine … But Just How Does She Appear?
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General HospitalAugust 20, 2019Michael E. Knight Joins General Hospital
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General HospitalAugust 15, 2019GENERAL HOSPITAL: Franco Looks In The Mirror … And Believing He Is Drew Kisses Kim
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NewsAugust 14, 2019The Bold and the Beautiful Ratings Winner With Phoebe is Beth Reveal