Breaking News
GLAAD’s Annual Report Shows LGBTQ Character Inclusion On TV Reaching Record-High: How Did The Soaps Fare?
As we look for more diversity and representation for minorities in broadcast television, GLAAD has put out it’s annual Where We Are on TV report. The findings show that broadcast television has a record percentage of LGBTQ characters, and featuring those of color more often than those that are white, for the first time.
While there is still much work to do, the report found that LGBTQ characters make up 8.8 percent of all regular characters this TV season, up 2.4 percent from the 2017-18 season, and last season was the record-holder. How do they find their data? They survey regular and recurring characters on original scripted TV series that have aired and are expected to air across broadcast, cable and major streaming platforms from June 1, 2018, to May 31, 2019.
As for the increase: LGBTQ regular and recurring characters on broadcast television are posting a 31 percent increase from the 2017-18 season. Meanwhile, on primetime cable shows,t LGBTQ characters have increased 20 percent, from 173 to 208 characters. Of the the streaming platforms monitored by GLAAD characters increased by 72 percent from the previous year, jumping from 65 to 112 characters.
Now as to your favorite daytime dramas, the report notes the following: “NBC’s Days of Our Lives brought fan favorite character Will Horton back from the dead this year, and news of this disrupts the wedding of his former husband Sonny and former lover Paul. Over the past year, the love triangle between the three of them was re-ignited, even though Will had no memory of his past. After multiple twists and turns, Will suddenly remembers his marriage to Sonny and the two share a kiss and become a couple once more.
Last year, on ABC’s General Hospital it appeared that the show had written off the character of Kristina Corinthos-Davis as she moved to Oregon with her former professor and girlfriend, Parker. However, Kristina has recently returned to Port Charles, and hopefully as a regular character on the show.
Photo Credit: JPI Studios
CBS’ GLAAD Media Award-recipient The Bold and the Beautiful continues to feature transgender character Maya Avant (Karla Mosely). Though Maya hasn’t been at the forefront of the show recently, she is still married with a young daughter and has storylines unfolding at her workplace, Forrester Creations. CBS’ other flagship drama The Young and the Restless is still unfolding the story of couple Tessa and Mariah, who got together last fall. Currently, Mariah is helping her girlfriend out of a scrape with some smugglers, but hopefully this couple will survive the extreme situation,”
So, are the soaps doing enough including LGBTQ characters and integrating them into their storylines? Would you like to see more diversity and inclusion on your favorite soaps. or not? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
As a gay man who loves the soaps, it means a lot to me to see gay life represented in daytime serials. I celebrated when the character of Hank came out to Iva on my forever-favorite soap AS THE WORLD TURNS, which then developed Luke Snyder’s story played forefront to the end. The four legacy soaps succeed in various degrees regarding gay characters but the effort is there. I enjoy the diversity of soaps in all ways the people are different. Seems this genre of storytelling reminds us best, despite obvious differences, we are all very much the same in our lives, loves, ups, downs, and dramas.
Thank you, lakovos, for reminding me of the greatest couple EVER…Noah and Luke. Talk about a smart, touching, sexy slow boil! These two were so special because they were patient and tender with their relationship, not just jumping into the sack because they’re both hot. That scene where Luke was fixing Noah’s tie and that first wonderfully impulsive kiss…just remembering it makes me swoon. Jake Silbermann may not be a traditional heartthrob; Noah was kind of goofy and insecure, but that’s what made him very sexy to me. Will and Paul and Sonny are all good characters and actors on DOOL, but Luke & Noah hold a special place for me.
soaphound .. that is; a mad tease
“Noah and Luke”
“I got in”
Absolutely out of your minds!! I thought queer was a dirty word to the left wack jobs
It would be nice if you could provide clarity.
Right, GramS? Her intentions seem unclear. But I’m sure it’s just that “wack jobs” (spelled incorrectly, but whatever) like us aren’t able to grasp the nuance in the message she’s trying to convey.
I love Tessa and Mariah from The Young and the Restless but this soap is trying to show them more as best friends than an actual couple. The chemistry between two girls is so amazing, it just feels natural. I want to see more personal interaction between the two of them, kisses, tender moments, Tessa’s patented hugs… Just let them be more passionate!
I love the integration specifically on y&r. It is taking a much longer time to get to a full fledged relationship, because there appears to be a very verbal backlash from homophobes and those who use their religion as a reason for hatred. People in same sex relationships are not a threat to anyone so I don’t understand that backward way of thinking. LGBTQ are everywhere in all parts of society. They are our pastors, policemen, bankers, sports player, favourite actor and on. I welcome inclusivity on daytime because just maybe, if done right, it will create even a small crack in the armour of the anti’s.
I am leaning on … Women, people of color, AND LGBTQ to lead the way
how absolute : fun and astounding are WE
how resounding of a triumph do we have
every thing !!!! TAKE FROM THE MEN.. TAKE FROM “HISTORY” TAKE OUR RIGHT BACK
that matriarch heart beat that heart pulsate that heart w/soul stood
walk the walk of onward Christian soldier.. with like minded souls reaching on our own.. TAKE BACK OUR LIVES from trump Paul Ryan.. all those men who want that stronghold and legislate OUR freedom
it stinks.. I hate it .. it hurts.. all of us
this link… “this link” this web… I will always continue to strike… decades plus watchers have a STRONG attention span.. who watch how life plays out.. who piece puzzles.. who watch how the writers play out… their pen to paper.
I cannot expect Shelly and Chris.. or Mal Young.. to GET a favorable inclusion.. of fan echo.. resounding pat on the back.. Ron Carlivati ??? perhaps
certainly , not Frank Valentini of @GH… his agenda REEKS
two pics ^^^ @DAYS : Sonny / Will / Paul . w/ Gramma Marlena.. is my storyboard.. as I’ve shared … I was raised by my grandma… and it’s with so much heart AND Tears.. to watch this play out.. that finally.. after years and decade of WAIT that LGBT is on AIR.. REEL ‘ing… this is mine to own.. this is mine to cherish.. this is mine to thank.. the audience who “share” mindset
who reach out and is happy with me… cheers and applause that @ DAYS @ Y&R (FINALLY) . the other pic.. Maura and Reese…. ??? I do not watch that show
GramS.. “reach and THANK YOU” for going on the walk the walk
I hurt on a good day.. I rally march forward
NOV 6th is a stronghold to bandage and gain support…
from my heart to yours.. Trump and his GOP – do not – have a strong hold
Why is there bring leo to cause trouble for will and sonny and when sonny and will become a couple on fool like Ron said
I think it is most shocking that “Bold and Beautiful” is set in LA and focuses on the fashion industry, yet there is not a major gay couple on the show. Maya has not been front and center in more than two years.
Except for Greg Rickart, the other three men are straight, and I know when acting, you have to do whatever it takes, but I really think they do feel uncomfortable sometimes, at least that’s how it looks to me.
I agree with you.. yet.. they vigilantly vocalize.. as a human being.. they care, that it is written with and portrayed as effective and plausible
I can only smile beam, cheer that after years of .. portraying their respective roles.. that it’s not an effort that is struggling.. LOL.. kiss make out.. MORE if you like.. wait it gets hard
it’s sex … man animal plant .. oh god.. even plants are mixed
they get a paycheck and sex
Am waiting to see what they do with the reunited Sonny & Will after Christopher Sean departs. I still remember ATWT’s Luke & Noah and that they should’ve had a happier ending. Also think AMC did mostly a great job with Bianca Montgomery
Weird that you chose to mention Kristina who was off-canvas, rather than Brad and Lucas who are in a front burner storyline and in a stable marriage although, because this is the soaps, not for long once Brad’s baby switch deception come to light… And doesn’t Felix still pop up once in awhile?
Christopher Sean : Paul : I just beam @him… he’s solid representation… giving and Personally on
He is what I wish : I, as a person of color.. being
LOL tears from here to their ; you did
Sonny and Will – “both” reeled
Freddy Smith : Sonny : I’m so attracted to you.. as a gay man… yes.. it must be uncomfortable to “play” yet you understood you came back… you give back
the three time emmy wined Chandler Massey : Will whom I beam at as he reflects shares life with Deidre Hall’ gramma Marlena
life goes on; sharing; you and me
on my bucket list ? to meet in real time : Deidre Hall… i’d cry
I truly would; this show deserves respect, accolades, deserve, win; try
Breaking News
Jacob Martinez is ‘Days of Our Lives’ New Javi Hernandez Replacing Al Calderon in the Role
Finally! The casting has been revealed as to just who would be Al Calderon’s successor in the role of Days of our Lives, Javi Hernandez. On Friday, April 30, the long-running soap opera revealed Jacob Martinez is taking on the part and he will first be seen this coming June 30th and then on all-new episodes streaming on Peacock.
As previously reported, the popular Calderon exited the soap opera last year to join the cast of the NBC primetime medical drama, Brilliant Minds as nurse Nico Silva, who in May will air the remainder of their second season. The series has been on the bubble for renewal by the network. His last episodes as Javi will also air this May on DAYS.
Since DAYS tapes ten months ahead of streaming, Martinez has been secretly ensconced in all the drama in Salem for quite some time. When viewers see the new Javi in story, we should learn what will happen in Javi’s relationship with Leo Stark played by Emmy winner, Greg Rikaart, plus his continued relationship with his relatives in the Hernandez clan. Currently, when Javi returned to Salem after taking care of his ailing father, and after the bust-up of his marriage to Leo thanks to Dimitri (Peter Porte), he claimed he had moved on with someone else while he was away from Salem.
Photo: JPI
Like Calderon before him, Martinez is a multi-talented actor and singer. Jacob’s resume is impressive having appeared in the musical In Pieces: The Musical at Joe’s Pub at The Public Theater and he was hand-picked by Joey Contreras to play the role of Grey. Other credits include: the short film, Memory Swim and the play Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage.
Martinez hails from Norfolk, Nebraska and appeared when he was very young at the Johnny Carson Theatre, and as DAYS fans know, Jacob is now working at the Days of our Lives studios, right where the “Tonight Show” is filled. In addition, Jacob Martinez is a graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA).
Taking to his Instagram on Thursday, April 30 once the news of his casting was revealed, Martinez, expressed, “Way too many people to thank in one post, so I’ll just say THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART to each and every person who continues to pour into me and encourage me to chase my dreams. I cannot even begin to express how grateful I am. I already feel beyond blessed, supported, and loved. See you all in Salem ⏳”
Jacob Martinez appeared on Friday on the Days of our Lives Instagram account announcing his casting. You can check it out below. Deadline was the first to report the casting switch.
So, excited to learn who is the new Javi Hernandez? Please welcome Jacob Martinez to the role and be on the lookout for his debut on June 30. Comment below.
View this post on Instagram
This week starts with heartbreaking news. Patrick Muldoon, best known for his roles as the original Austin Reed on Days of Our Lives and later as Richard Hart on Melrose Place, died on Sunday, April 19, at the age of 57. Reports indicate his death was sudden following a heart attack.
Muldoon’s sister, Shana Muldoon-Zappa, told TMZ on Monday more details on her brother’s death, “Patrick went to take a shower Sunday morning after drinking coffee with his girlfriend in their Beverly Hills home. His girlfriend decided to check on him after he was taking too long and found him unconscious on the bathroom floor?” Shana added that paramedics rushed over and tried to revive Patrick, but there was nothing anyone could do.
Soap fans first saw Muldoon as Kate’s (Lauren Koslow) son on DAYS back in 1992, where he quickly became a fan favorite during the on-screen love story between Austin and Carrie Brady (Christie Clarke). Patrick left the series in 1995. He later made comeback for appearances in 2011 and 2012.
Photo: JPI
On Melrose Place, he played bad buy Richard Hart from 1995-1996. Patrick launched his acting career while in college landing the role of Matt in the 1990 sitcom Who’s The Boss? alongside the likes of Judith Light (ex-Karen, OLTL) and Tony Danza. Following his graduation, Patrick nabbed a recurring role as Jeffrey Hunter in Saved By The Bell by 1991.
Throughout his decades long career, Muldoon also starred in several motion and TV series including his leading roile in Starship Troopers (1997). He also had parts in Deadlock (2021), Vanquish (2021), Dakota (2022), Marlowe (2022), and Murder At Hollow Creek (2023).
Photo: JPI
Not only was Patrick an actors, but a producer and a musician and singer. He often made appearances and put out music with his band, The Sleeping Masses. Muldoon was the band’s lead singer and guitar player. Patrick was also a producer of TV and film projects.
At the time of his death, Patrick was also an executive producer on a the movie “Kockroach,” which is currently in production.
Taking to his Instagram, just a few days before his death, Muldoon expressed,“So excited to be a part of this amazing project KOCKROACH directed by Matt Ross starring Chris Hemsworth, Taron Edgerton, Zazzie Beetz And Alec Baldwin. Filming now in Australia,” he captioned his post.
Sadly, on April 24, Muldoon can be seen in his 2025 film Dirty Hands also festuring Denise Richards (ex-B&B, RHOBH), which will be released on digital streaming platforms on VOD.
Muldoon is survived by his partner, Miriam Rothbart; parents, Deanna and Patrick Muldoon Sr.; his sister and brother-in-law, Shana and Ahmet Zappa; and their children, Muldoon’s beloved niece Halo and nephew Arrow Zappa.
Share your remembrances and condolences on the loss of Patrick Muldoon via the comment section, which is followed below by the trailer Dirty Hands due out later this week on digital platforms.
All My Children and Hallmark alum, Jonathan Bennett has been cast in the newly-created role on General Hospital as Joe Fitzpatrick.
Look for Bennett to make his debut on the ABC soap opera next month in May. Bennett is very familiar to daytime fans for his work as JR Chandler on All My Children from 2000-2001. Later, he landed the part of Aaron Samuels in the motion picture, Mean Girls in 2004 starring Lindsay Lohan, which would become his breakout role.
Jonathan would go on to star in seven Hallmark Channel movies and then hosting and producing the network’s reality competition show Finding Mr. Christmas, Bennett has also appeared as a contestant on Season 19 of Dancing with the Stars, plus Celebrity Big Brother in 2019, and he starred on Broadway in Spamalot.
Courtesy/ABC
Frank Valentini, the executive producer of General Hospital shared to Deadline who first reported the casting news, “We’re so excited to have Jonathan joining our cast. He’s a tremendous talent and will be a fantastic addition to ‘GH.’
After the news broke, Bennett took to his Instagram and shared, “There’s a new guy in town…” Meanwhile, the official General Hospital account shared a pic and expressed, “He’s already tired of us telling him his hair looks sexy pushed back. Welcome to the family, Jonathan Bennett.
Bennett is married to Jaymes Vaughan. Back in 2022, they became the first gay couple to appear on the cover of the wedding magazine, The Knot.
So, what do you think of the casting of Jonathan as Joe Fitzpatrick? Is he the new man for Lucas? Share your thoughts via the comment section.
View this post on Instagram
‘Brilliant Minds’ Officially Canceled After 2 Seasons at NBC; DAYS Alum Al Calderon, OLTL Alum Teddy Sears and Zachary Quinto Among the Cast
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Has Dylan’s Mystery Caller/Stalker Been Revealed to Be an Alive Luna Nozawa?
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Nick Confesses His Drug Problem to Victor; Joshua Morrow, Mark Grossman, Eric Braeden Bring the Newman Bond
‘General Hospital’s’ Jonathan Bennett Receives 3 ‘Critics Choice Real TV Awards’ Nominations for Hallmark Series, ‘Finding Mr. Christmas’
DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Sophia Seemingly Plans to End Her Life, But Not Before Setting Fire to Johnny’s Apartment With Him Trapped Inside
DAYS Stephen Nichols Remembers Drake Hogestyn as the ‘Most Vital, Enthusiastic, Committed Man I Ever Knew’ Ahead of the PanCan PurpleStride Walk
DAYS Stephen Nichols and Co-Stars Walk in Honor of Drake Hogestyn at PanCan PurpleStride LA, ‘I Felt Him With Us’
Brandon Barash Granted Restraining Order Against ‘General Hospital’s’ Kirsten Storms
‘Days of Our Lives’ Rob Scott Wilson Talks ‘Turning Heel’ as Necktie Killer, Ben Weston
Paige Herschell Marks One-Year as ‘General Hospital’s’ Jacinda Bracken
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Has Dylan’s Mystery Caller/Stalker Been Revealed to Be an Alive Luna Nozawa?
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Nick Confesses His Drug Problem to Victor; Joshua Morrow, Mark Grossman, Eric Braeden Bring the Newman Bond
WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus Talks Humble Beginnings, Test and Albert, WrestleMania 22 with Mickie James, Current Women’s Roster (Exclusive)
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Michael Reveals His Plan to Set Up Chase and Willow to Have an Affair
Judith Light Talks Her Role in ‘The Terror: The Devil In Silver’ Dropping on AMC+ with Co-Star ‘Downton Abbey’ Alum, Dan Stevens
-
Days Of Our Lives1 week agoDAYS Stephen Nichols Remembers Drake Hogestyn as the ‘Most Vital, Enthusiastic, Committed Man I Ever Knew’ Ahead of the PanCan PurpleStride Walk
-
Days Of Our Lives5 days agoDAYS Stephen Nichols and Co-Stars Walk in Honor of Drake Hogestyn at PanCan PurpleStride LA, ‘I Felt Him With Us’
-
General Hospital4 days agoBrandon Barash Granted Restraining Order Against ‘General Hospital’s’ Kirsten Storms
-
Days Of Our Lives3 days ago‘Days of Our Lives’ Rob Scott Wilson Talks ‘Turning Heel’ as Necktie Killer, Ben Weston
-
General Hospital1 week agoPaige Herschell Marks One-Year as ‘General Hospital’s’ Jacinda Bracken
-
General Hospital6 days agoGH’s Giovanni Mazza Performs Violin Version of Michael Jackson’s ‘Smooth Criminal’ at LA Lakers Playoff Game; Co-Stars Heap High Praise
-
General Hospital1 week agoSteve Burton’s Wife, Michelle Lundstrom, Raises Alarm on AI Scammers and Hoaxes, Pretending to be the ‘General Hospital’ Star
-
Days Of Our Lives2 days ago‘Days of Our Lives’ Conner Floyd on Chad’s Quest For Abigail’s Resurrection; But Who Should Be Cast as NuAbby?