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Free Of The Newman Name: Y&R's Eric Braeden & Justin Hartley Play Key Turning Point To Perfection!
Courtesy/CBS
Friday’s episode of The Young and the Restless featured two powerhouse performanes betweeen CBS daytime drama stalwarts, Eric Braeden (Victor) and Justin Hartley (Adam).
In it, father and son come to a conclusion and a reconciliaton, of sorts, in a key turn in their longstanding feud and relationship that is set to have a ripple efect in Genoa City for some time to come. After being dragged away and kidnapped to a cabin in an undisclosed location, Adam realizes Victor’s is behind it, and his knee-jerk reaction to his father’s presence is wanting to go back to prison. Victor informs him that he is safe and removes Adam’s handcuffs. Finally, Victor admits he went too far with his scheme and revenge plot against his son and in the process tore his life apart. Victor quietly says, “I don’t feel good about it.” He also tells Adam that turning his father in now for the crimes perpertrated against him will not make his his prison sentence disappear.
Victor then goes on to say in a emotional moment: “And it certainly wouldn’t give you what you have always wanted … to be free of your father.” He then tells Adam what he has set in motion for him: “You can go anywhere you want, son. Start a new life. Free of the Newman name … free of the Newman mantle … just start new. I will never see you again. You don’t have to leave your son and your wife, they will go with you.”
Courtesy/CBS
Adam fires back, “You’re agreeing to never see your grandson again?” Then Victor says, “I grew up alone, without parents. So, I want you to be a father to that boy, and I’m willing to sacrifice for you, and for my grandson.” Victor hands Adam a phone and tells him when it rings, Adam should answer it and make the most important pitch of his life. Adam is emotional and stunned.
As Victor is about to exit the cabin, Adam says, “Dad, I don’t know what to say.” (Cue “Nadia’s Theme”, the theme song for Y&R!). Victor turns back to Adam with, “You know, son … you and I have hurt each other a lot. But, I have hurt you more. This is for family.” Then Victor puts his hand on Adam’s shoulder and a teary-eyed Adam grabs his father’s hand just for a split second before Victor leaves.
Eric Braeden and Justin Hartley truly played all the the complexities of this damaged father/son relationship within the framework of these two-person scenes and within the dialog. Both actors in the moment with sublety and nuance, and it doesn’t get much better than this.
Courtesy/CBS
Now viewers are waiting to see just how this story plays out next week when Chelsea (Melissa Claire Egan) and Connor are reunited with Adam. Plus, to see the fate on-screen of the Adam character since Justin Hartley is currently filming This Is Us for NBC which debuts next month.
What did you think of the scenes between Victor and Adam on Friday’s episode? Did you reach for the hankies? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
Eric is a master class for the younger actors who have scenes like the one described above with him. Justin has been quoted as saying he really enjoys “working with Eric.” It’s obvious Eric’s talents allow a younger actor like Justin to use all his talents in the dialogue to add depth to the emotional quality of the scenes where there is abject sorrow for a closeness which was never to be. Great writing and scenes worthy of an Emmy nomination. Congratulations to both actors.
It really was a powerful scene! Great stuff!!
Justin and Eric are pure gold..
They are explosive, together..
Apart they both are firecrackers, together they are TNT …
Agreed. Both are outstanding performers; otherwise I would not feel this strong antipathy for Victor. I felt no empathy, regardless.
Eric surely did his job; as did Justin. However, the crux of the scene was to evoke, awaken and stir emotion. Did not do it for me because Victor is/was at the root of all this evil. Please, pardon the cliché, SuzieQ. LOL.
Oh, Victor is a firecracker, all right…..incendiary!!!!! Every move he makes; everything he touches turns to cinders.
Gold, su? Eric,; Justin, definitely. But, Victor has the Midas Touch in reverse.
Well…. The contrivance of it due to Hartley’s break diminished it somewhat for me but it was a good scene.
I can’t remember getting more choked up in one week’s time. It was quite the beautiful scene and Emmy worthy of both actors.
LOVED Friday’s episode! Eric Braeden and Justin Hartley played the scene to perfection! ! When Victor put his hand on Adam’s shoulder and Adam squeezed it back I had chills, and I actually had a bit of sympathy for Victor. And let’s not forget the wonderful and talented Melody Thomas Scott and Melissa Claire Egan. There parts were played to perfection as well. I thought we were going to have to go through the process of watching Nikki and Victor fighting for the millionth time about secrets and lies and Nikki again fighting with a bottle. But not this time. She went riding shotgun with Victor. Priceless. And we also have little Miss Summer being held by the neck by Luca as Jack walks in. You know someone is goi going down in that scene. All this coupled with a hopeful Travis and Victoria hookup, plus the possibility of Neil’s mother, I say keep it coming and I’ll keep watching! I will definitely tune in tomorrow!!
Oh, soap Queen, how right you are. And what about the scene last Wednesday when Adam asked Nick to look after Conner…I had tears in my eyes. The acting and writing were first rate and show what our beloved Y&R is capable of.
I got misty at the scene in the prison. But I didn’t start crying until Nick sat on the floor and started playing with him and he said I’m your Uncle Nick and I am always going to be here for you if you need anything. Priceless!!!!
As I have read elsewhere, this is a planned break for Justin Hartley. Whether or not he comes back after said planned break is a whole ‘nother matter! If not, then we’ll know that the show will indeed have to recast the role of Adam as the character is such an integral part of the fabric of the show and has been ever since Chris Engen initially took over as the adult Adam just as Hope was dying. In all honesty, I’m glad Engen didn’t last long because it brought us Michael Muhney, who really took on the role of Adam Newman and made Adam much more complex that Engen would have ever been able to do. With Muhney gone, Hartley has put his own stamp on the role and made Adam much more likeable and softer, which Muhney for some reason, couldn’t do because of the way in which Adam was being written at the time.
It’s going to be strange to say the least if Hartley is gone for good and another actor takes over the role. I really hope that the show (meaning its new casting director and of course showrunner, Mal Young) take their time in looking for a really good actor who can play all the complexities that are involved in playing a character like Adam and can and are able to stand up to a powerhouse like Eric Braeden (Victor). I think we obviously know that Michael Muhney will not reprise the role. For one, he had a very rocky working relationship with Eric and for another, there’s just too much water under the bridge over the supposed sex scandal that dogged him, which in my mind, he had no part of, due in large part to the fact that he had no scenes with Hunter King and why in hell would he put his wonderful marriage and family in danger in that way. My guess is that the perp was actually the actor who was playing Kyle (Hartley Sawyer???, whom I never liked one bit and have gotten into it with him on twitter way back when) before Lachlan took over. So, that leaves us with bringing in a brand new actor all together who has never been on #YR before.
Thoughts anyone?
My thought, Michael A Finney?
Your writing is superlative….your reasoning sensible….and, your wisdom of not-judging-that-of-which-we know-not-the-true-facts, overwhelms.
Victor remains, thus I get why he is once more ‘projected’ as the ultimate father and hero. But, the disappointment is bitter for me.
I love Eric, I despise Victor….I have not one iota of respect for him or Nikki who should stop standing ‘by here traitorous, dangerous man’. She gives all women, who have ‘burned’ their bras, a bad name.
I should, rather, say, Michael, I am disappointed with the writers. If Justin/Adam is never coming back? Well, we are talking about writers here. And, as such they should have put their writers’s cap on and used their collective skills and imaginations to come up with a more original story; other than running from the law.
Send Adam and family on a much needed vacation without all these detours, such as bashing the guard’s head in. The simpler, the better, the better, the more interesting!!!!! At that point, if Justin is coming back, great!!!! If not; leave the door open for a recast. TPTB are soap gods; they can do anything!!!! LOL.
Even if this time of absenteeism is dedicated to finding a replacement for Justin, the same could apply.
I hope this is what TPTB are planning. I would not like to think that ‘door’ is completely shut and sealed.
Sadly, I know a girl who, no matter what her husband says or does, she backs him. It makes her weak and it makes me cringe!
@Timmm.
Well, Timmmy….these are insecure women where chances are, their husbands have instilled these thoughts into their heads. It’s a control thing!!!! It truly is a shame….
I think Nikki fits this category. She has convinced herself ( after years of kowtowing and submitting to Victor) that she loves him so much she cannot survive without him. Nikki, and women such as she, cannot see the faults in their mates; or even if they do see the faults, they close an eye to the situation.
It is called BATTERED WIFE SYNDROME. It’s real and it exists. Many think that said syndrome involves beatings; physical abuse….but, not necessarily. Mental and verbal abuse is just as bad and probably more demoralizing….losing self-esteem.
It’s a general term given to those women who think they have no choice and nowhere to run. There’s help out there. But, these poor women need to be ready….if ever they will be.
So, Timmmy….your friend is not weak, dear friend…..she is stuck in a situation.
But, I do understand how pathetic it makes her look; especially if you feel helpless. So, I get it.
You’re a good soul, Timmmy.
@Harry.
Harry, I have been saying we were not there since this story broke.
Rebecca is speaking generally, I believe. The rest of us, who watch Y&R are speaking specifically.
You are missing the point. Read my comment about the shifting of focus. You will see that you are, in fact, agreeing with me. LOL.
Besides …… Rebecca did not say “we were not there”, Harry. I did. Rebecca argued the fact that even happily married men are pervs. She absolutely is right. But, somewhere along the line, there was a misunderstanding in words.
So, my darling, Harry. Read everyone’s comments on the subject …..you will realize we all say the same thing….in different words.
I would like to rephrase…..please indulge me.
I must apologized to all men for this phrase, “…..even happily married men are pervs”. It was an honest poor choice of words. Sorry!! My bad!!
It should read, “…..even happily married men CAN be pervs”.
Not all men,or women are the same.
Hi CeeCee…I don’t watch Y&R regularly or B&B or Days. I do however watch them sporadically (especially if an actor from another soap has moved there…and love Justin (so gorgeous AND a fine good actor) who I watched on “Revenge.” I wanted to binge but OnDemand doesn’t go too far back with soaps. However, I do read the posts occasionally if it’s an interesting topic so yes, I read a lot (not as much as you and the regular viewers) but enough. I understand MM was a popular actor and many were beyond upset at the scandal, his termination and that there was divided opinions/sides as to whether he did it or was unjustly accused. I also read that some blamed the actress and/or others for making it up because they didn’t get along with him.
My comment to Michael A. Finley was exactly what I wrote. He did accuse another actor who he (Michael) had an argument with on Twitter. I can understand the bad taste it leaves when arguments ensue whether in real life or on social media. And, it’s disappointing to realize that we might not like an actor who we watch on a soap…or any show, film, etc for that matter. I LOVE when I see or read an interview with an actor ( or musician) I like and they seem genuinely likeable and intelligent and other times I have to block from my mind what a jerk he or she seemed in order to get into their (in the case of soaps) again.
But Michael accused another actor which seems to me kinda off. If the incident happened I sincerely doubt the actress would think…”ooh! I was groped! I epwas sexually harassed! I’m so upset…angry…I think I’ll blame…someone who didn’t do it!” My point is if she was assaulted and sh named someone…and I say IF because yes, I, you, Harry etc weren’t there…but IF it happened I don’t think it’s appropriate for fans to insinuate it was someone other than the victim said. I also think if ZmM didn’t do it he would sue for defamation of character if nothing else. To be tainted that way and not try to clear your name other than protest to one’s fans on social media is questionable. Actors are people and as viewers most of us don’t know these people..we just come to love who they play. Some fans can’t separate that.
As for my comment about even married men can harass, (stalk, cheat, etc) I was again referring to Michael’s comment. He seemed to assume that MM wouldn’t risk his happy marriage or take a chance by doing what he was accused of. My response was IF he did it…than he certainly could risk it as many happy men have done who have cheated, seated, groped, etc. who were in a happy marriage ( again, do we REALLY know it’s happy? but I digress.) Thing is, most of these people don’t think they’ll ever get caught…
Ummm…I don’t think accusing another actor of sexual harassment because you had an argument on Twitter is the way to go. And I think, (aside from the fact that no one knows what goes on behind closed doors and no one can say for sure who has a happy marriage if it’s not theirs…not to mention the fact that people who harass women can do so even if they are happy) if the incident happened, the actress would know who the “perp” was.
I understood exactly what you wrote, Rebecca. I did not realize you watched Y& R. Many have speculated that the incident with Muhney did not happen…. It was designed by another ‘powerful’ actor who did not like Muhney……that the story goes beyond the smokescreen of sexual harassment.
No one knows what the truth is. I never intended that happily married men (or women) are not pervs.
Believe me, I have had catcall thrown my way because of certain parts of the anatomy.
My point was and still is….unless we know something as fact; then we should keep our peace or piece, LOL, to ourselves.
That’s not what Michael is saying, at all, Rebecca. I don’t think he is accusing someone just because of a twitter disagreement. He is saying that it could have been Sawyer because of the conversation’s content.
This was a big story when Muhney left….accusations, rumors and gossip were flying everywhichway.
We were all stunned and very unhappy in losing Muhney, who depicted the complex character; the lost soul; the desolate son of the most powerful giant , without a real family, that was Adam, to perfection.
Muhney actually molded Adam, and played him like a fiddle.
The issue has always been that what happened, never happened.
Mould…not mold, LOL.
Again, Rebecca I don’t want to give the impression that sexual harassment, or any kind of harassment doesn’t happen in the workplace, or anywhere else….it does, and it should not be swept under the rug, by any means.
But, the argument, in this case, has always been: was it a fabrication or the truth??
But, for said argument’s sake, the point a few tried to make, is that even if events did not happen this way, some other ‘force’ made it difficult for anyone if he/she was black-listed.
Unfortunately, the focus shifted from the real issue ( sexual harassment) to arguing , “did he or didn’t he”.
My point….we were not there, sooooo……
Rebecca is right–we don’t know, we were not there and casting aspirations elsewhere is not helping matters.
Hi, Rebecca.
Believe me; I agree with every word you wrote.
As I said to Timmm, my father says there are wolves all around females, ready to pounce.
That litany was instilled in my head as soon as I turned twelve. LOL.
I believe every single one of us girls/women have had “up close and personal” encounters with this very lascivious kind of man. Old men are the worst!! But, we are talking about diseased minds here; not all men or women. Women have been known to sexually harass boy/men, as well.
I have had to use my knee….something my Gran and mother have taught me to do, LOL; on a couple of occasions. My brother has always maintained that I’m like an ant; I can lift an ‘object’ twice my weight.
I do appreciate your point. As I said, when Muhney’s story broke everyone was all over it.
Perhaps it was hard to grasp such a disgusting action by someone we admired as an actor…..are we still in denial? And, here we are, still talking about it. This will haunt him for the rest of his life; whether he did it or not. If he did; then he deserved worse.
Actually, way back when, I did say something similar to your…” No one knows what went on behind the scenes”.
The point is. No one knows. There was much speculation about another actor having had a hand in Muhney’s ” good riddance”.
Now, I completely read what Michael A F wrote differently. He said, he guessed Sawyer did it. I think his point was that anyone could have done it. I don’t know, Rebecca; as this poster’s name is new to me. I don’t think I have seen the name before. I answered him voicing my doubts…..but, he did not respond.
Such behavior should suffer the consequences. My question is: why were criminal charges not brought against him? Who knows??
Hey, Michael,
Do you really think it was Sawyer? He is very active with TV…..guest appearances ( BONES), films, producing, writing etc., whereas Muhney seems to still be ‘floating’, looking for work. What a waste of talent. No one knows what really happened. I’s like to give him the benefit of the doubt.
Perhaps NOTHING went down.
I have maintained since this story broke that none of us is privy to the facts….and, I still believe that.
As yourself, only someone who had lost all sense of reason and touch with reality, would risk so much over….well, you know!!
Yes, Celia, I concur. My mama always says, “There are two sides to every story, and then there’s the truth.” But I would also like to offer this brief list of names: Fenmore, Austin, Kyle (both Mr. Sawyer AND Mr. Monroe), Courtney, Jamie, and apparently soon-to-be history Luca. What do they have in Common? All were “involved” or friends with the Summer character and all are history (keep in mind that Matthew Atkinson had just been given a contract and a month later was unemployed). Is it just me or does that seem strange?
@Soaphound.
Yes, of course, Soaphound. Never thought about it….Now that I see it in writing, you have a point.
Everyone working side-by-side with Summer makes a BIG, silent exit.
Hmmmmm. Good observation, my friend.
My mother always says, ” Don’t judge lest you be judged”.
You did understand my comment…yes, CeeCee? That even happily married men…or men who SEEM happy to the outside world are capable of sexual harassment. Whether they’re married or not is…despicable. So to say someone is in a happy marriage therefore he couldn’t have done it is kinda not the point. Because ANY man who harasses a woman sexually, even if he’s single, is still way outta line and probably criminal.
I’m not aware of anything that causes smoke, but a fire. In any event, I wasn’t there and I don’t know the specifics or the facts of what went on. I will say that people in an industry have a way of knowing what takes place. Word of mouth. People who may not twll the public will tell one another.it’s very difficult for me to not side with someone who says they have been victimized, simply because that is my own background. That’s not to say that i am incapable of giving the benefit of the doubt. Beyond that ,though who would make a good replacement, if needed. I say give JPL a shot at it. Although, I think he would’ve made an excellent Bolly, but that point it moot now.
Celia, I am not sure to what you’re referring–I was not addressing you when I stated the restated premise that we were not there. I was addressing someone who wrote that they suspected another Y&R actor of sexual harassment based on their Twitter misbehavior.
I was simply agreeing with Rebecca’s feeling that she does not like loose allegations being hurled about on social media. I was not disagreeing with you. Moreover, I feel defensive of both Michael Muhney AND Hunter King when folks make ugly insinuations and allegations about either one of them without knowing what really went down. I believe in the presumption of innocence for both the accuser and the accused. That’s all.
Good post. There will be ONE person whose opinion matters when they cast the next Adam Newman, Eric Braeden, PERIOD!
Yeah, Timmmy….seems that way. Too bad!!
Read an interview done in 2013 with MM their were lots of issues between him and EB that’s ok if you can’t get along sometimes best to move along ! Most people have learned just go with the flow with EB he has been there a long time just let it go MM could not and so it goes. He pulled my sweet SC into it she use to have a great relationship
With EB but no more
I long for the days EB and SC use to have great chemistry as a father in law it is now gone I am sad they worked well together
Sorry!!!! What a crock!!!!! How does anyone, with God-given sense, adjudicate Victor’s last coup?
He put all of Adam’s mishaps in motion. So, are we now (the fans and his family), expected to kneel with bowed head, prostrating at his feet, kissing the the floor those feet have trodden; chanting ” mea culpa”?
Again, Victor is Sonny Corinthos and vice versa……
Needless to say, this ‘thing’ with keeping Victor a direct “descendant” of Le Marquis deSade just to unreasonably redeem him and make him the savior, is sooooo droll. Been there, done that.
Again, the acting by both protagonists was preeminent…..as the consummate talents they are. And, if Victor had been one’s ‘regular’ Dad doing his utmost to exonerate or help his child in every possible way; then, I would have felt that familiar twist in my heart, as I always do when that painful moment becomes tangible.
As it was? Nothing.
Is Pratt killing him off it sure looks like it from the Promo the whole scene between Nick and Adam did not ring true because when did they become loving brothers? Acting is fine I just am perplexed on when all this sudden love happened I assume Pratt is setting up a love match between Chelsea and Nick.
I agree I felt nothing for Victor because he has been a one note Gillian for so long this was the second time he set Adam up for murder.
Villain
Oh, my dear Kay…. Please no!!!! Poor Nick stuck with Miss WahWah. Chelsea will kill him with her constant whiny nagging.
Hey, Mister soapman: deliver Nick from another ‘flipped her lid” female.
They wouldnt kill Adam off. He will eventually run and be off screen. Nick will oversee Connor and fall for HELLsea!
Don’t recast leave it be
Oh, Kay….I know you weren’t knocking it. I agree with you. People still survived without cell phones. My grandfather refuses to own or use one. And, expresses his disapproval with very colorful Scottish brogue…LOL.
Why is Chloe still hanging around in her God awful, ugly clothes?
She gives me the creeps in a Single White Female sort of way.
If she is crushing on Chelsey and wants to be her double, then I wish she’d raid her closet. Then at least Chloe will look good as she gets on my very last nerve. Chelsey’s only saving grace is at least she looks good as she engages in that horrific caterwauling.
Well, Kay. I love your frankness and passion about Sharon and Eric’s working relationship.
Not too many fathers-in-law bed their daughters-in-law. LOL.
Hey my sis says Sharon went to Hawaii to clear Adam from murder charges Chelsa whined ! Love it ! I love my sisters sarcasm she is not in social media does not even own a cell phone! You go sis
Kay, I belong to the spoiled and helpless-without-a-cellphone-generation. I was born holding a cell phone! LOL. I am also told I came out talking…HaHa.. I lose my cell in the house more times than not. I feel lost without it. That’s technology. Yeayyyyy!!
But, good for your sister. No social media for myself, either. Just these boards.
I remember when Sharon went to Hawaii to clear Adam. I loved those days….I really do pine for a little taste of what was….sigh….
Hey I was not knocking it my sis just lives in the dark ages and that is ok we were raised in the dark ages lol you know the great thing is everything is a surprise and in a way I envy her she never hears garbage about the actors or the plots !
The scene today between Mariah and Daniel was everything could you please make him stay the chemistry was off the charts I adore Camryn Grimes I so want her to have a story
Kay–I absolutely agree. Camryn Grimes makes every scene work. Some of the best scenes as of late have been the ones which have transpired between Mariah and Sharon. When soap stories are predicated upon real moments, real connections between loved ones and are character driven, they are emotionally compelling. Moreover, you do not have to blow up sets just to propel the story along. I want Danial to stay as well–you’re right when you assert that the chemistry between Mariah and Danial is “off the charts.”
I like Kevin but do not understand while all these younger and very attractive women swirl around him like bees to honey.
@Harry.
Hi, Harry,
I did respond to you, but I do not see my post.
I misunderstood. I thought you were talking to me. I apologize.
And, yes, I agree. None of us is in a position to point fingers elsewhere. Later.
Yes, Kay. I like the vibe between Mariah and Daniel. But, I won’t get too comfortable….I will, more likely than not, be disappointed. Either Daniel will leave; or, if something should come out of this “reunion”, Mariah will leave with him.
I really am so glad to see them act together as adults. If only……
And you know I made a comment to Suooo about JC I regret that I was just dissapointed in her actions when she was ill and the tribute I am sorry I like a little bit of class every once in a while ! She was a good actress just did not care for the off screen shenanigans ! Still lived her actng
Loved her acting! Dam this I pad
Harry, I understand Kevin’s appeal.
He is pretty cute, and very quirky and funny…
a big plus!
Nanci, Kevin is all that! He just strikes me as the kind of guy you’d want to go to bed with in order to jump on it–ya know, the bed!
Lol, Harry!!
Yes, there’s that, too…
They were good scenes. Loved when Adam called out, “Dad,”, but I don’t want Adam to have to leave and go into hiding.
Sorry, but one decent scene out of a year and a half of plot-driven, convoluted and scattershot storytelling does not cut it – this show is STILL a hot mess of connect-the-dots storytelling.
Pratt is a horrible head writer and needs to be shown the door soon!!
I have loved this show for the past few weeks. Nick getting along with his brother & sitting on the floor with Conner made me cry. Victor brought this mess on himself and the sad part he didn’t do half this crap with the other siblings. He let Victoria go but nothing for Nick, Abby or even Nikki. Although I don’t care for Victor I think he played his scenes like the pro he is and Adam (Justin) was absolutely fantastic. They play so well off each other. Justin Hartley is going places. O .M .G. In one scene as they led him away in chains from the court house he actually even had the walk of someone who gave up. I don’t think there is any kind of scene this guy couldn’t do to perfection. The fact that we have Travis and Daniel back is another plus to look forward too. Is Daniel going to get involved with Mariah? Please don’t put Billy with Victoria. I think Travis & Victoria are as hot as they come.
Love your post, Nikki. Great description of characters….you depict Adam’s walk to the “guillotine” to perfection.
Alas!!! If only I could feel something for Victor, the swine…..LOL.
Yes Nikki, “The Walk!” I mentioned that, as well. He didnt have to say one word, his demeanor and glance said it all.
I’m so glad a few noticed it too. I shouldn’t be surprised I really believe that guy could play any role he’s given to perfection. He just glanced then turned and put his head down and walked away as if he stopped caring, but did you notice him looking at Victor? He really gave him eye contact before he walked away but if you could put words to it. it was like saying “you won, are you happy, you broke me” and I think it broke Victor. I have to tell you if I was Chelsea I would throw that Chloe out of the apartment as soon as she finds out who tipped off the cops & Victor will get even with Chloe as well when he finds out his well planned get away was ruined by Chloe’s big mouth.
This summer beginning on July 21, Netflix streams the return of WWE: Unreal for its third season. The behind the scenes docudrama series gives fans a glimpse of life in WWE and inside the writers room, as injuries, last-minute pivots, and career-defining decisions reshape WWE’s biggest event of the year, WrestleMania 42.
WWE Unreal is taking fans deeper than ever inside World Wrestling Entertainment’s creative process, The hit docuseries will once again pull back the curtain on some of the biggest moments, boldest decisions, and unforgettable storytelling with some of the WWE’s greatest legends who’ve shaped the industry and new stars who are emerging as prominent parts of the future.
In the new season of ‘Unreal’ which consists of 5 episodes at 50 minutes each: John Cena says goodbye, a fan favorite returns, and the next generation of Superstars rise to the occasion.
Photo: WWE
The cast and WWE superstars featured include: the aforementioned Cena, plus Cody Rhodes, Liv Morgan, CM Punk, AJ Lee, Trick Williams, Lash Legend, Stephanie Vaquer, Oba Femi, Bron Breakker, Chelsea Green, Matt Cardona, Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch.
As previously reported AJ Lee revealed on General Hospital star Maurice Benard’s (Sonny Corinthos) mental health series, State of Mind, that she was part of the cast of WWE: Unreal.
WWE: Unreal production credits include: Directors/Showrunners: Chris Weaver and Erik Powers Executive Producers: Peyton Manning, Jamie Horowitz, Ross Ketover, Keith Cossrow, Ken Rodgers, Jessica Boddy, Lee Fitting, Ben Houser, Marc Pomarico Sr. Producers: Harley Glantz, Brian Decker, Michael Flynn Producers: John Galiani, Dan Gati, Jeremy Lundblad Production Companies: Omaha Productions, NFL Films, Skydance Sports, WWE.
So, what do you think of the loglines for the new season of WWE: Unreal? Who are you most excited to see featured in the behind the scenes drama from the list of WWE superstars and the twists and turns leading into this past April’s WrestleMania 42? Let us know via the comment section below.
If you have ever tuned-in to the soap opera genre over the last 50 years, and witnessed some of the greatest romances, drama, classic and outlandish storylines of all-time, you would have seen Deidre Hall smack dab in the middle of it as longtime Salem heroine, Dr. Marlena Evans.
It was 50 years on this date, June 21, 1976 that Hall first appeared on DAYS on NBC which was its home for 57 years before it moved to its current streaming platform on Peacock in September of 2022.
In Hall’s first episode she was introduced as a psychiatrist treating Mickey Horton (John Clarke) at Bayview Sanitarium after he suffered a complete mental breakdown. Mickey learned that his brother Bill Horton (Edward Mallory) was the biological son of Mike Horton (Wesley Eure) with his wife Laura (Susan Flannery) and that he had been lied to for years and years. From that moment on, the rest is television and soap opera history. Days of Our Lives put Hall front and center.
Photo: NBC
There were so many heartbreaking and shocking story twists involving the beloved Marlena. One of the first was the historic crib death of baby DJ (Don Jr.) in 1980, Marlena’s infant son with Don Craig (Jed Allan). The story had never been told on daytime television and Hall’s performances received accolades from TV critics to fans when Deidre received thousands of letters from grieving mothers who had gone through the same thing in their own lives.
DAYS also brought Deidre’s twin sister, Andrea Hall Lovell to the show as her on-screen sister Samantha, who had a grudge and even locked Marlena up in a sanitarium and took her place! Fast-forward and in 1982, DAYS launched the Salem Strangler story where everyone believed Marlena was his next victim, only it turned out to be Samatha. Jake Kositchek (played by Jack Coleman) was revealed to be the actual serial killer.
Later, Deidre would assume the role of Marlena’s look-alike, Hattie Adams in 2004, once played by her sister, Andrea. Over the years, Hattie has come back to Salem and caused trouble giving Hall a chance to play a different type of character, then the always upstanding Marlena.
Photo: JPI
THE LOVES OF MARLENA
Deidre Hall struck gold with all her leading men: from the late Jed Allan, to Wayne Northrop as Roman Brady, and of course, her enduring love story with the late John Black played by the iconic Drake Hogestyn. In fact, Marlena’s 1986 wedding to John (who was believed to be Roman at the time) remains a favorite of fans to this day.
TOP MARLENA STORYLINES OF ALL-TIME
While the list is long, here are several that were some of the memorable during Deidre’s five decades in Salem!
The Possession (1994- 1995)
Considered one of the most ambiguous, outlandish and unforgettable story arcs in soap opera history, then Days of Our Lives head writer, James Reilly went there! Marlena was possessed by the devil! That included; the demonic eyes, hissing at father John (Black) the priest, morphing into creatures, and the classic levitating in her bed! It became a cultural phenomenon and cemented Deidre Hall’s status as a daytime television legend. Just ask Ryan Gosling!
Photo:JPI
The Affair with John Black (1993)
John and Marlena’s forbidden love could not be denied and they had passionate affair, while she was still married to the real Roman. Problem was her daughter, Sami (Alison Sweeney) caught her mother having sex with John on a desk that changed Sami forever.
The Salem Stalker Mystery (2003-2004)
In a shocker, Marlena was revealed to be a serial killer who bumped off several Salem favorites residents who were all alive on the island of Melaswen (spelled “New Salem” backward). Turns out, she was manipulated and gaslighted by Andre DiMera (Thaao Penghlis) to do the “killings” and had no memory of her actions.
The Pier Scene (1991)
This remains Michael Fairman TV’s all-time favorite Deidre Hall moment, which featured some of the best acting in the storied careers of both Hall and Drake Hogestyn.
In the story, a presumed-dead Marlena returns after four years. One foggy night on the pier, John is alone, and Marlena steps out of the fog to reveal herself, and is reunited with the love of her life. You can watch it any year, any decade, and in any moment, and it will have you reaching for the hankies again and again. (best music score fo a soap scene of all-time too!)
Photo: NBC
Kristen’s Secret Room Reveal (1997)
Marlena was caught in Kristen Blake’s (Eileen Davidson) elaborate web of lies, when she was held hostage in a secret wine cellar/room until John managed to track her down, leading to an iconic on-screen reunion. The classic catfight between Hall and Eileen Davidson was one for the ages.
It should be noted that Maison Blanche, Queen of the Night, Possession, Aremid and Lady in a Cage were all a part of classic DAYS storyline and all featured Hall at the epicenter of it from 1993-1996.
THE RECENT YEARS OF MARLENA
In recent years, DAYS brought back the possession 2.0 storyline under then head writer Ron Carlivati in 2021 where the devil leapt back in Marlena after taking advantage of a frail Doug Williams (the late Bill Hayes)
In 2025, viewers watched the end of the love story of John and Marlena, as John succumbed to injuries sustained in an explosion saving a vial of medication needed to bring Bo (Peter Reckell) back to life. Marlena has been a widow on-screen since June of 2025 as Hall as portrayed the good doctor struggling with her grief and to move on with her life since his death.
Photo: JPI
One story that never goes away is Stefano DiMera’s (the late Joe Mascolo) obsession with Marlena, his “Queen of the Night.” Even in death, Stefano is toying with her from the great beyond with the mysterious chess set and the missing “pawn,” that he had gifted John and Marlena in his will. The mystery is currently unfolding on all-new episodes of Days of Our Lives.
Tune-in to Days of our Lives on the Monday, June 22 episode as Marlena looks back at her 50 years in Salem.
Share your congratulations to Deidre Hall for this incredible 50-year milestone as Dr. Marlena Evans on Days of Our Lives in the comment section. Then let us know, what is your all-time favorite storyline or moment in the life of Marlena over the past 5 decades? And, just for kicks, and to celebrate this amazing milestone, here is Marlena levitating below circa Christmas Eve 1994.
General Hospital
Maurice Benard Gives High Praise to ‘General Hospital’ Writers; Teases Upcoming Sonny Scenes with Anna, Jason, Justine and Ric
With the highly-anticipated returns of Finola Hughes (Anna Devane) on this week’s June 24 episode of General Hospital, Steve Burton’s (Jason Morgan) upcoming return on July 13, which also serves as the ABC daytime drama’s 16,000 episode, things are about to fire on all cylinders in the story, as noted today by series star, Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos).
On Father’s Day, the three-time Daytime Emmy-winning actor and mental health activist took to his Instagram and expressed in a video that he has some unbelievable upcoming senes with the aforementioned Burton and Hughes. Add to that Nazneen Contractor (Justine Turner) and Rick Hearst (Ric Lansing), where Benard gave credit where credit is due to the GH writing team, which is led by co-head writers, Elizabeth Korte and Chris Van Etten..
In this video, Benard said, “I just want to get on here and say that I did some work with Steve Burton, Finola Hughes, Rick Hearst, Nazneen Contractor, and they’re all just fantastic. Truly fantastic. But, I want to say the writing was just exceptional. It truly was. It was exceptional. So, thankful for that kind of writing. I know writers don’t get the credit a lot, but I just want to say to the General Hospital writing team, keep rolling!”
GENERAL HOSPITAL PREVIEW
So now the question becomes, with a major tease like that, what is about to go down between Sonny, Anna, Jason, Justine and Ric? Will we finally get to the end of the line for Sidwell (Carlo Rota), as previously teased by the GH co-head writers? Will we learn what happened to Jason and Anna, fully? Will Justine and Sonny becomes closer or stop their liaisons? And what of Ric? Will he be true blue to his brother or double-cross him? There is a lot at stake as we move further into the summer and one that looks like it could be one of the more exciting ones in years!
FINOLA HUGHES CONFIRMED AMAZING SCENES WITH MAURICE BENARD
As a punctuation point to his video, Benard also shared this written message in the post: “I just did some wonderful scenes with Steve Burton, Rick Hearst, Finola Hughes and Nazneen Contractor and and unbelievable writing, freaking amazing scenes that you will see in the near future on General Hospital.” In fact, Finola Hughes jumped in the post comment thread and responded, “I loved our scenes so much xxx”
Fans will most likely see all the scenes Benard referred to later in July, since GH tapes approximately six weeks ahead of air.
So, are you excited to see what Maurice is talking about? Are you hyped for what’s to come on GH? Any clue on what you think will go down between the main characters on the soap with the returns of Anna Devane and Jason Morgan to the mix? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
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