General Hospital
GH's Dominic Zamprogna Talks Dante & Lulu's Break-Up And Future & The Support Of The Cast During Difficult Time!
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
There have certainly been some highly-charged emotional moments over the last several months for Port Charles’ Dante Falconeri, including losing his daughter in a custody battle, when the truth came out that the baby Dante and Lulu were raising wasn’t theirs, but Maxie and Spinelli’s! Next, his wife Lulu walks out on their marriage. Can Dante get the love of his life back? Is this the end of the road? Will he ever know that that Britt’s baby is actually Dante and Lulu’s bio-child? So many questions to be answered in the months ahead!
We caught up with the very popular star of General Hospital, Dominic Zamprogna (Dante), at the recent ABC TCA (Television Critics Association) Cocktail Reception. We wanted to find out what he thinks of his on-screen break-up, and the transition and challenges he has faced since Julie Marie Berman departed the series, and Emme Rylan took over the key role of Lulu. Dominic also shared with us how he got through one of the most difficult times in his life, the passing of his beloved mother, while having to play pivotal scenes in Dante’s recent storyline. Here’s what Dominic had to say about his soap life and more!
They broke up Dante and Lulu. Where do you think it will go from here? And, what about the potential pairing of Ryan Paevey (Nathan) and Emme Rylan (Lulu)? Discuss! (Laughs)
Courtesy/ABC
DOMINIC: I think Dante and Lulu will work on getting back together, and that’s not to say that they will. And yes, there is the new detective, and Emme and Ryan seem to have good chemistry. I watched them work the other day and went up to Emme afterwards and went, “What is this? You’re hanging out with this guy?” (Laughs) She goes, “Well, that is the way it was written!” (Laughs) I think Lulu and Dante have been through a lot. I think they have more story to tell. I don’t think this is the end of anything. I don’t think you have two people who love each other that much, who gets to this point, just to call it quits. I think there is too much history, love, and pain to walk away.
I have wanted to see you have a story of your own for a long time. How do you feel about the material you have been given of late, and what may lie ahead for Dante?
DOMINIC: I feel for the first time since Sonny (Maurice Benard) shot Dante, when I was initially on GH, that I have something meaty to play. Since then, this is the first time I have had an opportunity to play some real heartbreaking and heartwarming material. I am really thankful for Ron Carlivati (head writer, GH) and Frank Valentini (executive producer, GH) for writing it. I feel like since September and October of 2013, it’s been really good stuff. I have had an opportunity to tell really good story with Emme, Maurice, and Lisa LoCicero (Olivia). I loved the scenes with Maurice in the boxing gym, and the scenes with Lisa with the baby in the apartment. I also loved the scenes with Emme when Lulu breaks up with him, and she leaves Dante. So I feel, if people don’t want Dante and Lulu together that’s one thing, but as an actor, it’s been really fun to play.
How has the transition been for you going from working with Julie Marie Berman to Emme Rylan as your on-screen Lulu? There are some fans who have been very vocal about their opinion on the recast.
Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins
DOMINIC: I would just say the transition for me was not difficult, because Emme is so great. She is really talented. Does a talented actress replace four years of another talented actress and our connection to each other? No. You can’t just swoop in. I don’t care who the actor or actress is, you can’t replace someone so easily. It does take time. I think that is what fans are having a hard time with. And, what I keep saying to fans is: you’ve got to give this girl a chance. She has only been there a year, not even. It’s like a new couple. I almost wish she didn’t have blonde hair, but brown hair, because then people would stop thinking that it was anything close to what Dante and Lulu were. It can’t be. It’s a recast. It’s impossible, but I believe, and I told Frank and Ron this over the holidays, that I believe now Emme and I are forging our own path as Dante and Lulu. I don’t feel this is Dante and Lulu that everyone remembered from me and Julie. I think this is a new Dante and Lulu, and that we are exploring new realms that had not been paved out before. I am pouring my heart and soul into it, and I know Emme is. All I can say is to ask people to be patient, and to enjoy the ride that it is. I am not telling you, you have to like anyone, just to give something a chance.
Do you see Dante dating other women in Port Charles?
DOMINIC: Of course! Any couple going through this hardship, the loss of a baby, a break-up, then thinking you are having a baby again and you’re not, and then she leaves him … these are real situations about real things. We are not breaking up because they had an argument. We are not breaking up because Dante looked at a girl the wrong way, or cheated on his wife. We’re breaking up because this couple has hit a massive roadblock, where they start to question if they are truly right for each other! Because if you were right for each other … would you be having these kinds of difficulties with everything you want out of your life? So for that reason, I can see him dating again, but I do think Lulu is the love of his life. That is the one thing that is a throughline from Julie to Emme. It is still the same character. We do have that history there. But hey, this guy Dante is an Italian red-blooded man. He’s going to want to be with women.
How is Ryan Paevey to work with? It seems like Nathan may give Dante a run for his money as the best cop at the PCPD, and with Lulu!
Courtesy/ABC
DOMINIC: He is awesome! I don’t think having another cop in the cop shop was something Dante wanted. I think it’s something he didn’t want, but he is dealing with it. Dante had John McBain (Michael Easton) before, and I liked that dynamic. I think with Nathan, it will be a more competitive relationship, and also maybe with Lulu. Everyone keeps bringing it up. If it is, it is. It will be great. I think fans will like it, and it will shake things up. From a Dante working with Nathan as a partner perspective: it’s not going to be what he wanted, but it will be this competitive kind of nature type of thing that he has not had to deal with. I think it might be good for him.
Have you talked to Julie Marie Berman at all? How is she doing?
DOMINIC: I have, and she is doing great. She was at the baby shower we did for Brandon Barash (Ex-Johnny, GH) and Kirsten Storms (Maxie). And … oh, my God. Have you seen their new little girl, Harper? What a beautiful kid! They had a beautiful kid.
The scenes in the church where Brad (Parry Shen) came in and told Dante and Lulu that everything was a lie about their baby, and Dante learned that Maxie and Spinelli knew the truth … that was some of your best work. Did you watch those scenes back?
Courtesy/ABC
DOMINIC: I did, only because we have been looking at material for our Emmy reels. I did not use that scene. I used the scene with Maurice and me in the boxing gym, and me crying over Lulu’s dead body. I loved the scenes in the church, and the way it was written. You had me, Bradford Anderson (Ex-Spinelli, GH), Kirsten, and Emme, and we are all trying to play with each other, and it was a tough time in my life. My mother was very sick and it was right before she passed away, and it was tough to be there. I did not know how I was going to be able to do these kinds of scenes. But when you are working with people like that, it’s really easy, because they keep you in it and they support you. I am glad you liked that.
Speaking of Maurice Benard, I know he has been extremely supportive throughout your career at GH. What can you say about your relationship, especially during the difficult time of your mother’s passing?
Courtesy/ABC
DOMINIC: The scenes with Maurice in the boxing gym were really difficult. They were my first scenes back to work since my mom died, and it was supposed to be emotional, and he and Lisa and I went out to lunch beforehand. I said, “Listen, I have never been through anything like this in my life. They want these scenes to be emotional and I just don’t know what’s going to happen.” I felt so screwed up. Maurice is the most supportive actor I have worked with in my life, bar none. That guy has been a friend and mentor to me since day one. And those scenes were real, and when he put his hand on my arm in that scene and said, “You got me.” It was Mo telling me I had his support and love. So, we are stronger than ever. My mom got ill very quickly. She went into the hospital on September 1st and passed away on September 25th. It was devastating. You know who your friends are at a time like this. I consider Maurice one of my dearest friends for the rest of my life. He makes you a better actor. He has been doing amazing work. Since I have gotten to GH, Maurice has reached a whole other level, and his ego is completely removed. He is not concerned about Maurice anymore, he is just there. You can tell by the end of the week he is just exhausted, because of what he puts into it. I am so honored to be able to work by his side.
What do you think about Dominic’s comments about the future of Dante and Lulu? And the transition for the actor and the audience between Julie Marie Berman and Emme Rylan as Lulu? And what do you think about the poignant moments in the interview shared by Dominic on the passing of his mother and how the cast was there for him during that time in his life? Comment below!
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Watch the Replay: GH, DAYS, Y&R, B&B & OLTL Stars at Michael Fairman’s Virtual Birthday Party for SAG-AFTRA Foundation Covid-19 Relief Fund
Earlier this week on Monday night, several of the stars of General Hospital, Days of our Lives, The Young and the Restless, The Bold and the Beautiful, and One Life to Live, took part in a virtual livestream “party” for Michael Fairman’s 60th birthday.
The event was held virtually to help performers in need who have been deeply affected by the Covid-19 pandemic by letting viewers know where to make a donation to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s Covid-19 Relief Fund.
Photo: ABC, NBC, CBS
Participating throughout the 90 minute livestream were: The Young and the Restless, Jason Thompson, Sharon Case, and Christian LeBlanc, General Hospital’s Maurice Benard, Laura Wright, Wes Ramsey, and Chloe Lanier, The Bold and the Beautiful’s Katherine Kelly Lang, Days of our Lives’ Rob Scott Wilson, Eric Martsolf, Galen Gering, Arianne Zucker, Shawn Christian, Santa Barbara favorite, A Martinez, One Life to Live’s Kristen Alderson and Eddie Alderson, and Studio City’s Sean Kanan.
You can catch the replay of the birthday benefit event below or on The Michael Fairman Channel on You Tube.
Throughout the evening, the actors shared stories of how they got their SAG card, played a game of Michael’s trivia, and revealed stories about themselves and other “party” guests in a wonderful display of community and camaraderie at all went down live!
Since March of 2o2o, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation has given out more than $6.2 million in emergency aid to over 6,500 SAG-AFTRA performers and their families facing hardship and uncertainty during this pandemic. Thousands of SAG-AFTRA artists have found themselves in dire need of assistance to help pay their rent, buy groceries, cover health care premiums and other bills. You can still make a donation of any dollar amount to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation Covid-19 relief fund here. https://members.sagfoundation.org/donate
Now, check it out below, and let us know if you enjoyed the virtual birthday party livestream via the comment section.
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I do not want Dante and Lulu together..
I think they need a lot of time apart to get new stories other then them and their problems..
I would like to see Dante grow!!
I would like him to become Dante without Lulu …
I don’t care for LuLu lately.. Instead of separating from Dante she should have stayed together and work things out.. She took the easy way out…
Lulu sleeps with Nathan(they dont actually doze off…lol), Dante learns of the affair, Dante and Lulu divorce, Lulu and Nathan marry, finally Dante and Lulu learn Ben is their son during sweeps…Feb., 2015! lol
Are you sure you aren’t part of Ron’s writing team? LOL
You forgot the part where they disappear for months at a time.
LOL…im just use to his writing style!!!
I don’t like Nathan all that much.. Very pushy and full of himself..
Nathan is like that for good reason…he is somehow related to Nina, Silas’s wife…he is either her brother like i said or the son of Nina like Rebecca had son which i feel would make more sense and drama, especially if he turns out to be Silas’s son. I cant wait for them to find out Silas’s lookalike brother Stephan is responsible for Nina’s coma!!!
I like Nathan as a character…and the actor is certainly good-looking…but he’s either one of the worst actors I’ve ever watched…or he has a style all his own. Can’t decide which! And yet…I like him! Go figure…
Best interview! Loved it! Really pulled at my heartstrings. I love Dante and Lulu and always will. They belong together. Regardless of who plays them, as long as the writers write them as the loves of each other’s lives, they will be exciting to watch for me. I love Dominic and Emme as much as I loved Dominic and Julie. Each brings their own into the character. I’ve always felt Dominic and Julie showed us the beginning of their lives as a couple and now Dominic and Emme are showing us the ups and downs of being married and working… Read more »
Agree Toby! I loved Julie but I love Emme too! Dominic is right-we need to give the new people a chance! Almost everyone is a replacement at some time & we grow to love them. I was very moved by Dominic’s remarks about Maurice Benard-gosh I remember him as Nico on AMC. He has really grown up-as an actor & a man-what a wonderful generous person.
A year is more than enough time chance, tick tock times up. She needs to be recast
Sorry! Its been almost a YEAR and she still hasn’t caught fire with most of the fans! (Check out the MBs etc…) Honestly. Emme was given a HUGE break with the amnesia storyline but again she failed to make the character her own! Ppl may say that this is the “new/softer ” version of LuLu but that was NEVER what LuLus character was all about! She is the daughter of Luke & Laura. She’s meant to ne “rough around the edges” This sanitized/ mini van version of NuLante isn’t cutting it. The bottom line is that Emme Rylan was capable… Read more »
I agree with Dominic as I just lost my mother as well. It is so hard to handle
and to have to go everyday without her unless you lose your mother you just do not understand and he and Maurice did a great job with storyline.
What a great interview! I didn’t know I could like the guy more than I already did! I also love him and Lulu as a couple. I’ve liked both actresses. But I think it’s wrong to split them up when the biggest part of this story has yet to be revealed–that they have a son! After all the awful things they went through, I think they deserve a little happiness! It makes me angry enough to think about all the months they’ve already lost with their son!
I love Dante, he is otso hot
Another great interview Michael. I’m liking that he commented on Emme & the fans giving her a break. I actually love Emme & was one of the fans who thought of her right away when Julie said she was leaving. I think she has done Lulu great. I liked Julie a lot but Emme made her softer. If that makes any sense. As for Dominic you get better all the time. So sorry for your loss. It never gets easy but you do end up going on. It’s hard but I promise it gets bearable. Never better but bearable.
It is interesting how people’s reactions can differ. You think that Emme makes Lulu softer and I think she makes her hard and brittle.
Excellent description, missellie. I find Emme’s “Lulu” less likeable than before, which is quite a feat since Lulu has never been one of my favorite characters.
This was a great interview….I am encouraged by Dom’s comments about Dante and Lulu, who I hope find that their love is indeed strong enough to get them through anything, no matter how difficult…like a real marriage…without cheating by either, I might add. So glad to hear that Dom felt so much love and support from the GH cast when he lost his mother. This was a lovely, personal, serious conversation with one of my favorite actors. Thank you both.
Did he actually say you have to give the actress a chance because she’s only been here a year?
He did. How many shows are cancelled in a year? LOL.
Only a yeah huh ? Please, he and JMB had chem from the start and it didn’t take a year to determine that. JuDo Lante forever
What a sweet interview. Looks like more tough times ahead for Dante & Lulu, which is good news for the fans and opportunity for the characters. Sounds exciting.
Loved the interview with Dominic. So wonderful to share with us about his mother & the support he received from the cast. I’m sure it is still very difficult to talk about, but because he knows how much his fans care about him, it was so gracious of him to share that with us. I love any & all new aspects to the story of Dante & Lulu. They need some time apart to maybe appreciate each other again. I love that they are really meant to be together & I will enjoy watching how Dom & Emme play this… Read more »
I disagree with Mr. Zamprogna’s comments & perspective that this is a “new version of Lante”. We (the audience) saw tremendous growth and maturity w/ the couple while Julie played Lulu. And I am more than convinced that if Julie was still on canvas – she and DZ would be playing this storyline with such power and conviction it would rip our hearts out. The issue for many is the choice of the actress to replace Lulu and for many ER just isn’t “Lulu”. And it is falling flat for many. I am sorry – but one can not just… Read more »
Well I was only beginning to watch GH when Julie left show, so I don’t have any history to go on, but just based on the couple of months I was watching– you are so right about the chemistry thing. Often that has nothing to do with the talent of any actress, but certain actors just click as a couple, and others do not, and even I without knowing the history like you do I can tell ER and DZ just don’t fit as well as JB did. And that is sad part of any soap couple when one leaves,… Read more »
I’m getting a bit tired of actors saying they have “chemistry” with their costars. Just because they say it doesn’t make it true. It has to show up on my tv screen and unfortunately IMO there is no chemistry with Dante and the NuLulu. I get more of a sibling kind of vibe from them. I have enjoyed the Lante story up until JMB left. Now I feel it is time to break this couple up and pair Dominic with someone he actually DOES have chemistry with.
@Callie- Amen! I really DID try yo give NuLu a try but she really didn’t seem to have chemistry with ANYONE! ( I haven’t watched her with NuCop) The bottom line is AFTER THREE RECASTS Emme Rylan should have made that role her own! Its been almost A YEAR and she’s still swinging in the darkunfair for a talented actor lime Dom Zamprogna to have to carry her in EVERY scene! The bottom line is she may have acting experience but she is painfully over her head and treading.g water! Even a year later!! Its really unfair for a ta
What a great and touching, heartfelt interview! I DO want Dante and Lulu to get back together…
As for the gorgeous new detective, I noticed that both Maxie and Lulu were all “star-struck” when first meeting him, while He did not appear to return the flirting.
That said, I would really like to see Lucas and Nathan slowly become a couple and one that lasts, that would be great in My opinion…
Wow!
Lucas and Nathan as a possible couple?
that would smolder and catch my tv on fire
I think “Cartini” needs to bring back the “Night Shift” to accommodate all these “Nathan” and “Lucas” fantasies I keep reading about, since they are definitely tooooo hot for daytime!!!!! And Patrick, you should be in charge!!!!! ; )
Michael – I have to say this is my favorite interview of yours, ever – I’m a writer too and man you really asked DZ some great questions and you got some very candid answers. Loved reading it Michael – you rock!!
I, personally, have – never – liked recasts…. IT happens
I have to give some props to Emme Rylan…
I’m enjoying her scenes and how it’s being played out…. she has an instant chemistry thing going on with Benjamin
whew! I also, like him, for Britta and Nicholas…. so… it’s going to be heart wrenching
Nathan is, definitely, played for eye candy…. but… it’s not lost …. that Dante is thee man…. oh so fine
splitting them up… even for a temporary thing… is OK… this couple… despite the recast.. they still belong together
I would like to see Dante move on… With someone like Sam! It would be hot and unexpected. Something to shake the show up. I loved Lante with Julie but with Emme, it’s not the same.
Dante & Sam are too closely related if you ask me. It is all mixed up but remember she was pregnant by Sonny & lost the little girl & she is Kristina’s 1/2 sister & Dante is Kristina’s 1/2 brother. Too much family connection there. What about Dante & Elizabeth or . . . well there aren’t that many available girls on the show for Dante. He should just wait for Lulu!
Let’s face it, nearly every man in Port Charles could potentially be paired with Sam, theoretically speaking! KM has a natural, wonderful chemistry with each guy she plays against….it really is something to behold…witness her recent scenes with Patrick, Dante, Nathan, even Julian (Not suggesting that last one though….LOL.) Not to mention her PC vampire pal, ME!….It’s ever so obvious that the “boys” just love doing their scenes with her! While Kelly may not be the greatest actress on GH, she definitely possesses that special something and it comes through time and time again…truly enjoy her work!
Thanks for the beautiful interview with DZ. The man has a huge heart, which shines through in his portrayal of Dante, and has made me a fan for life. It was heartbreaking to read about what he went through having to deal with the pain of losing his mother while filming those scenes (which he was brilliant in) and glad that he was able to get support from fellow castmates, especially from Maurice. They really have an incredible chemistry between them. I agree with everything he said about the difficulty of having people accept that Lulu was recast. I knew… Read more »
Believe me, like you, I understand Dom’s frustration and concern about the difficulty some have had accepting Emme as a recast Lulu – and I sympathize with his situation here. I am also troubled by some of the excessive negatively comments we have all read, and I see his need to rebut those comments. However, the overall lack of acceptance happens in soaps and can last for a long time. In fact, just yesterday, I saw a preference stated for Tamara Braun’s Carly (and Laura Wright has been on GH since 2005). From time to time, such comments surface re… Read more »
I do appreciate the passion of Lulu fans as well as Dante fans and Lante fans. I count myself in that group. In a perfect world actors would never leave and couples would never change. DZ understands the fans passion too. But he also has a job to do. He’s an actor and he’s given a script. He’s told who his co-star is and he creates chemistry the with that co-star. No two actresses are the same so he must start A NEW to create THEIR chemistry. The history of the soap couple is still there, the story is still… Read more »
Oh my, I’m not quite sure you realize how much we agree on many of the points you have mentioned. One important point I shall make clear is that it is still possible to be very interested in what happens to characters and/or a couple even if one does not feel the intense investment you feel. And it’s equally possible to care very much about the actors as well. But, here, I simply meant to remind all of us that recast situations can remain issues for years and to suggest possible reasons why the reaction has been extreme this time.… Read more »
As much as I adore Mr. Zamprogna, the sparkling, effervescent chemistry and emotional connection that he shared with Miss Berman is something that, for many of us, is something that will be unmatched. Where he has experienced a resurgeance in terms of good material for his character, the same cannot be said for the recast and her portrayal of L. RC’s writing has regressed her to the point where she is unrecognizable to this viewer. Add to this, where some have their opinion that she is good in the role, I continue to hold my view that she is woefully… Read more »
I wholeheartedly agree with these comments. Due to recent press, I feel that GH is trying to promote ER in the Lulu role and trying to stop the tide of negativity surrounding her casting. It still is not working for me for all the reasons so succinctly stated by BethCP.
Thank you.
You’re not a hater, she’s terrible in the role. Some actors aren’t very good in specific roles and some are just not very good actors. Dominic refers to the actor that plays Nathan as awesome. Awesome at what? The guy is a terrible actor. He’s an underwear model that was cast because he’s handsome, like there are no handsome men who can act? This guy is beyond bad and is an offense to any actor out there with a SAG card trying to make a living.
And thank you to you also.
He really is a great actor he makes it look so easy. I really like him a lot.
He really sounds like a nice guy. Great interview. I actually like him better with Emme.
I’m sorry to read that you find this recast so distressing. It must be so painful to have endured this day after day for the last year. I would think that it be easier and much less stressful for you to take Mr. Zamprogna’s advice from another interview and take control. Turn GH off and move on to something else.
I’m sorry to read that you are unable to appreciate other’s opinions. A forum such as this comment section is designed for all viewpoints – and welcome the last I read. But most importantly the Mr. Fairman asked for feedback. Specifically in reference to the transition of Julie to Emme as Lulu.
I guess I’m the nay-sayer when it comes to Lulu. I’m okay withi either actress, I just don’t care for the Lulu character. She seems spoiled and self centred to me. Maybe it’s part of the baggage of being Luke and Laura’s daughter and all they went through. I know it would be tough to possibly lose your baby, but I thought it was really awful what she did to Maxie in court to try to keep Connie. And especially what she expected from Dante…to lie. What makes him great is his honesty and integrity. And as for Maxie, she… Read more »
Do I think it’s funny that Heather continually breaks out of an asylum…Do I find it a thrill to behold when a mentally disturbed patient runs a fully functional hospital??? People drop dead and pop up here and there for no other reason than a ratings grab??? Recently I watched crazy Cameron on Emmerdale..a British soap commit several murders and take people hostage during a storm that flooded the WoolPack..where he was holding them hostage…STELLAR.. in 2009 it was crazy Sally breaking up Laurel and Ashley..the year that also featured what we viewed as a hot hetero admitting being gay..Aaron.… Read more »
Here’s a thought. Let Morgan have inherited Sonny’s Bipolarism since he is Sonny’s only son. Take Heather back to the days of when she burned her fingerprints off in her and Jeff’s kitchen instead of this ongoing silly mess,(i.e.) give us a Heather we understand with a clear purpose not a muddied one. As an WSB informant Julian had to take up some sort of conscience at one point that would conflict with his new history in PC. Ava clearly has a conscience as Maura conveys to us despite the material. Stop recasting and bringing back with no clear clue… Read more »
MF — thanks for the interview with Dom. I wish that he didn’t have to spend time promoting ER as Lulu. I feel that it is time for Dante to move on without Lulu. I really hope that Nathan is not paired with Lulu. I want to see a solid partnership at the PCPD between Dante/Nathan. I would even like to see a friendship there because so few characters are shown having good close friendships. Finally, I loved to hear that MB is such a kind and supportive person. I think that this connection really came through in the boxing… Read more »
Another great interview… Michael!!! Thank you Dom!!! I liked all of his answers and appreciated getting his take on the Dante & Lulu relationship and on Maurice.
Great interview. I liked Dominic’s portrayal as Dante from the minute he walked onscreen. He’s both gritty and gracious, tough and tender, passionate and patient, hot and…hotter! 😉 He is a “natural” actor…just evokes the son/husband/cop effortlessly and I truly feel invested in Dante. Of course we never know the real person behind the wall…but if I were to go just on this interview he gave, I’d say he was all good things his fictional character is, and more. I also extend (should he read this) my sincere condolences for your loss Dominic. As for the “new” Lulu…I think the… Read more »
This is very well stated, Rebecca, and couldn’t agree with you more. Rylan is a capable actress (I’ve watched her work on “Guiding Light” and “The Young and the Restless”), which can’t be said for many recasts, particularly when their predecessors’ work was so indelible. However, I think she’s having a better time of it than the actress who now plays her old role on “Y&R”. In time, however, I think she will put her stamp on the role as did many great recasts through the years (ATWT’s Hunt Block, OLTL’s Judith Light, Y&R’s Jess Walton, to name a few).
Thank you Rickie.
Excellent points rebecca1. Especially about Julie’s tomboyishness & Emme’s more formal way of speaking! That is a big part of the difference between them, I could never put my finger on it. Julie was more “Luke’s girl” Emme does not seem to “go with” Luke like Julie did. I could see Emme more as a “Laura’s girl” if that makes sense. Either way I love them both & always thought Emme was adorable as Lizzie on GL & Abby on Y&R, now this. She is just precious to watch. Give her a chance everyone!
Truthfully, and with no disrespect or offense intended, how many chances must she be given? How much more time should she be allowed? In terms of character, drawing more from Luke’s persona is what made L so special, different, unique from the formulaic, “stock” soap heroines that have been typical of the genre. And right now, having watched her as both Lizzie and Abby, I’m seeing those characters as interchangeable with her portrayal, a society princess type that was never a part of L’s rough hewn history of being shunted from one unstable situation to another. It’s one thing for… Read more »
Yes Gloria, i see what you mean as Laura was a tad more “refined” than Luke…so it follows you’d think that…
I think the key is that eventually Emme will have to have her own persona so ingrained tin Lulu
hat the comparisons will stop.
If by formal way of speaking, you mean stilted, robotic and without nuance I agree. It factors into her inability to connect with the other actors and develop any chemistry. She is also not very good at all in her emotional scenes. Some actresses just can’t play them, can’t cry convincingly. In those scenes, she is just painful to watch. There are some wonderful actresses on GH who can convey a wide range of emotions, Kirsten Storms, Jane Elliot, Finola Hughes, Becky Herbst, Kelly Thieboud, all are wonderful. Maura West is great too, but I’ve really only seen her do… Read more »
I have given her a chance for many months now and it just gets worse. I wish this interview was only about Dom.
Sadly, rebecca1, with this young woman, the comparisons may continue. I’m not saying it’s right or fair. (Having been miscast in roles as a dancer myself, my own experience plays into my views here.) How she plays the role is hers to own. That is on her. It is what it is, nothing more, nothing less.
Interesting responses to your post, Rebecca. Reading some of them I get the impression there is more interest in Emme Rylan, the actress, than in Lulu Spencer Falconeri, the character. And I always wonder if some Emme fans would be quite content to see her play Lulu as an “adorable,” “precious” imitation of Lizzie and Abby. The problem is that the adult Lulu Spencer has never been played as an adorable, precious rich girl, and she has been a very different character from Lizzie and Abby. She has always had an edge (inherited from her father) that made her an… Read more »
I hope if Dominic Zamprogna reads this he realizes that this page is full of his fans! LOL…we’ve spent so much time scrutinizing, dissecting and “critiquing” Emme that I feel we’ve taken away from his excellent, very open and heartfelt interview. With that said……..LOL…….I’m going to respond. What I meant Caitie when I said Emme would have to have her own persona ingrained….is that unless an actor is playing a role which requires them to cultivate a foreign accent, ie a British actor playing an American or vice verse…they bring their own voice, literally, to the role…inflection, pronunciation, etc. The… Read more »
I have been a supporter of Dom Zamprogna since he first aired on my GH screen in June, 2009, and I continue to be his fan regardless of who his romantic screen partner is. Within the context of these interview comments, I have twice expressed my thanks for this heartfelt interview, and I do have great respect for all that Dom shared with us. However, this is also Michael Fairman’s page and, in my other posts here, I have done my best to give my answers to the three questions posed by Mr. Fairman at the end of the interview.… Read more »
Sigh…Caitie…I in no way, shape or form was implying that YOU were off topic or were the cause of any shift away from Dominic! I was just laughingly saying I hope he’s not offended if he reads these comments…and just wanted to reiterate that those of us on this page are fans of his work and enjoyed the interview! I wasn’t referring to you in particular at all… I think even after I respond that we’re not going to agree on “Lulu.” Did I like Julie Berman? Yes. Was I used to her version of Lulu? Of course. But she… Read more »
I had thought about not responding – but only because you are so right when you say “we can go round ‘n round.” This is indeed a circular discussion. However, I thought more about just one short paragraph you wrote – and I think you hit on a very key point here: “I wasn’t that attached to the Lulu character to begin with. Had it been Sam, or Alexis, Anna…I’d have a more difficult time. But for me…this interpretation works just fine.” Well and fairly said! Degree of attachment to a character – in this case Lulu – does seem… Read more »
I actually think something I believe you posted earlier might be more applicable…which is also something I touched on. People remember Julie’s face….laugh, look, just her face!!! LOL…and I think that’s part of the problem with some recasts. The replacement has to literally “replace” the former actor in the viewer’s mind.
Of course Julie left an impression; she was on the show for years. We equate actor with character in a lot of cases…
Okay. Over and out! (on this topic.) 😉
love dante he’s a real good actor hope he’s gonna stay in general for long .
I liked Julie Berman as LuLu best of all… Don’t care much for Emme Rylan as LuLu now…She whines too much..
Thank you, again, Mr. Fairman, for such a quality interview. Once again, you have shown us your genuine respect and affection for our soap actors. And thank you, Mr. Zamprogna, for sharing a very personal piece of your life with us.
I know Dom wants us to give Emme a chance as Lulu, Emme just plain souks as Lulu
I like Emme, but I hate Dante, he is very dry and boring. Nathan is interesting-but do we need Nathan, or Dante. Lulu was born on screen and is a legacy character. If anything I say ditch Kiki, Franco, Sabrina, Brit, Felix, all the teens, Sonny-without Brenda is pointless, Silas, Sam, Alexis-because she hasn’t acted since she caused Sam’s baby to die. I want more Elizabeth. Maybe Dante should hook up with Liz, that would teach Lulu when she yelled at Liz at the hospital for cheating on Lucky.
so basically you want to ditch the show…you mentioned about 3/4 of the cast!
No I don’t want to ditch it, but they could trim the cast down.
I really like Emme as Lulu better. I agree with Patrick in that I think she is softer.
I’ll start by continuing my thanks and appreciation to Mr. Fairman and Mr. Zamprogna for this interesting and moving interview – and for a thought-provoking piece as well. First thought – I’m very pleased with Dom’s choices for Emmy consideration – those were my favorite scenes of his in 2013, especially the scenes with Sonny at the boxing ring. Powerful work, made even more emotional by Dom’s personal loss and his friendship with Maurice. Next thoughts are re Dom’s comments about Dante’s current story and his relationship with Lulu. I understand why he is so pleased with his current story… Read more »
I don’t think he will get an Emmy. It will go to either MM, BM on Y&R depending on category. He hasn’t had any good storylines or stellar performances. IMO.
Mr. Fairman asked for our thoughts on the transition between Julie Marie Berman’s Lulu and Emme Rylan’s Lulu. Because this interview focuses on Lulu’s love story with Dante, I’ll talk only about her in the context of this love story and not about Lulu Spencer in general. I see Mr. Zamprogna as being in somewhat of a Catch 22 situation re the audience’s transition between Lulus – the dilemma being that the “Lante” history – so richly and intimately created with another actress – is needed as the foundation for the current relationship with a new actress. When we talk… Read more »
Both posts here are eloquent, well thought out. Excellent. Thank you.
Loved the interview! Dom and Julie were the reasons I came back to GH as a regular viewer and he has always struck me as a kind, down-to-earth person not caught up in celebrity life. He is by far my favorite actor on GH and I’m so glad he submitted the scenes with Sonny and Dante at the gym and with Dante pouring his heart out over Lulu’s “dead” body. Almost as if Dom was saying goodbye to Julie’s Lulu for himself and the viewers. I paraphrased that from someone! I know Dom is a team player full of praise… Read more »
I really like him. I saw him years ago on Stargate SG1 so it was a treat to have him arrive on GH. I really enjoy watching his acting and he has had some really tough life altering moments to deal with and those emotions he had to deal with during emotional scenes really came thru, especially touching since you know there was real pain and emotion behind the acting. That’s tough to go to work with the pain of losing a loved one. Most of us would just hunker down in our cubicles and try not to talk to… Read more »
Wow! What a series of comments to this interview. Best to Mr. Zamprogna with his continued work as Dante. As far as Emme. I make the following observations. For those viewers that have followed Julie’s Lu from inception – including her relationship with Dante, ER is a difficult recast. Because that followed the character, ER simply has not embodied any of those traits. Too much has been written, or posted, that ER is “Laura” or she represents the “family” side of Lulu.. or whatever, to justify her acting choices. As far as the “Laura vs Luke” argument .. so to… Read more »
All I can say is “Wow!” Mr. Zamprogna is a “Class Act”. Kudos to Maurice Benard for his support of Dominic. Great interview.
Love Dominic, and I know he respects Emme and her work, but she’s just not Lulu for me. I would have rather seen RC use the custody story to end them, and set him up with someone new. A consolation prize would be to see him as Ben’s dad with Britta as the natural mom, so I’ll at least get to see Dante interact with a different female. I think they would make better parents than Lante.
I just re-read this interview with Dom Z again this morning, and again I’m so impressed with how professional Dominic is, especially throughout the difficult weeks of his mom’s illness then her death! Can’t even imagine how stressful it must have been to do those heartbreaking scenes on air during that time! Makes me so happy & proud that his work is being recognized now with his 1st Daytime Emmy Nomination! He’s a wonderful actor and more importantly an exceptionally kind & caring person in real life! So glad his castmates supported him through those very difficult days & it… Read more »
I think that whoever plays Lulu has no significance of the love between Dante and Lulu. That Love would continue no matter who plays her or him. They are a couple, like others, who have their differences but are VERY STRONG WILLED. They will eventually find their way back to one another. Just like Luke and Laura in the 70’s, Dante and Lulu are the Super Couple of Today’s times. If they do get remarried, I’m sure it will be a wedding like no other and not like the other time when Olivia was the only one in attendance.