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
2026 Daytime Emmy Awards: ‘Extra’ Partners with NATAS for Pre-Ceremony Red Carpet Stream; Week of Segments Leading to Ceremony and Post-Coverage
The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) announced on Thursday that the syndicated entertainment news series, Extra will be its partner for exclusive coverage of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards being held on Friday, October 30 at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.
The 2026 Daytime Emmys as previously reported can be seen streamed via the The Emmys,YouTube channel, via watch.theemmys.tv, as well as on the official Emmys app, available for phones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Here’s a breakdown of the pre, during and post Daytime Emmys coverage via Extra below!
Beginning Monday, October 26, Extra will feature five nights of dedicated Daytime Emmys segments leading up to the ceremony, giving fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the award show.
In addition, Mona Kosar Abdi, Weekend Host & Senior Correspondent with Extra will host the pre-show red carpet stream on the @TheEmmys Youtube channel.
Extra host and Dancing with the Stars judge, Derek Hough will present during the ceremony, and correspondent Terri Seymour will also host coverage throughout the evening.
Extra’s weekend edition (A WEEK FOLLOWING the ceremony) will features notable red carpet moments, winner reactions, and exclusive footage from the night’s festivities.
The entertainment news program is also nominated for three Daytime Emmy Awards going into the ceremony.
So, what do you think of Extra’s scheduled upcoming coverage of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards starting on Monday? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) revealed on Thursday, the lineup of presenters for 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards taking place on Friday, October 30, 2026, at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, California.
The ceremony will stream live on the NATAS YouTube channel at YouTube.com/@theemmys and watch.TheEmmys.tv.
Scheduled to present from the current soaps are: Katelyn MacMullen (Willow, General Hospital), Delon de Metz (Zende, The Bold and the Beautiful), James Preston (Nick, The Bay), Paul Telfer (Xander, Days of our Lives), Tamara Tunie (Anita, Beyond the Gates) and Susan Walters (Diane, The Young and the Restless).
Photo: NATAS
In addition soap alums, Crystal Chappell, Lesli Kay, Joe Lando, Eva LaRue, who is also a nominee this year, A Martinez, Juliet Mills, and Alicia Leigh Willis, will also be on hand to present.
The ceremony which celebrates nominated lifestyle programs and dramas will also include presenters: Eva zu Beck (Superskilled with Eva zu Beck), Danielle Chang (Lucky Chow), Sunny Hostin (The View), Derek Hough (Extra), Pati Jinich (Pati’s Mexican Table), Star Jones (Divorce Court), Michael Jr. (Stand Up and Do Something), Judge Greg Mathis (Mathis Court with Judge Mathis), Keke Palmer (Glam Through the Ages), Nischelle Turner (Entertainment Tonight), and Andrew Zimmern (Andrew Zimmern’s Wild Game Kitchen).
The 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards will bring together an exciting mix of presenters representing the full spectrum of daytime television,” said Adam Sharp, President & CEO of NATAS. “From familiar faces in daytime drama to the personalities and creative voices behind talk shows and lifestyle programming, this year’s lineup reflects the breadth of talent that makes daytime so special. We look forward to celebrating the people who continue to shape the genre.”
Matthew Hoffman (Love Island USA, Cheap A$$ Beach Houses) will serve as the ceremony’s Voice of God, bringing his signature comedic narration to the evening’s celebrations. As previously announced, Lifetime Achievement honoree Genie Francis (Laura, General Hospital) will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by her husband, Jonathan Frakes.
So, what do you think about the list of presenters for the 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards? Let us know who you are looking forward to seeing via the comment section below.
Congratulations are in order for three-time Emmy winner, Tom Pelphrey (ex-GL and ATWT) and his fiancée Big Bang Theory star, Kaley Cuoco! The couple welcomed their second baby daughter together on October 12, and revealed they named the little bundle of joy, Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey.
Tom and Kaley shared the news via their Instagram accounts on Wednesday with some adorable baby pics. Cuoco captioned the photo“🎀Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey🎀. 💖10/12/26💖. There are no words to describe this feeling once again. What a blessing.
Cuoco added, “We are so grateful for the crazy wild up and down journey that brought us to our little Philo! Family officially complete 😭Time to bring Matilda’s baby home! 😂💕”
Photo: KCuoco IG
BABY MAKES FOUR
Next, Kaley shared her love for the father of her children, exclaiming, “Tom Pelphrey, life exploded the minute we met, and the gifts keep coming. I love you forever , girl daddy! 💘.”
Philomena now joins big sister, Matilda mwho was born in 2023, as part of the Pelphrey/Cuoco family! Tom and Kaley began dating in 2022 and became engaged in 2024.
Daytime fans first saw the talented actor on Guiding Light as Jonathan Randall, the son of Reva Shayne (Kim Zimmer). Tom won two Daytime Emmys for his memorable performances during his run from 2004-2009.
He later played Mick Dante on As the World Turns from 2009-2010, before heading to work in primetime and motion pictures. Last month, Pelphrey one the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his role in HBO’s Task.
TOM PELPHREY CELEBRATES EMMY WIN AND NEW DAUGHTER WITHIN A MONTH OF EACH OTHER
After winning his Emmy, the expectant dad told E! News, “We’re both so excited. Our daughter’s excited. We’ll see how it goes when it actually gets there.” Tom added, “The things that are new and the things that feel like not a big deal this time. But mom and baby are healthy, so God willing, that keeps up, and we’re thrilled,” added the actor.
Pelphrey took to his own Instagram and said on the birth of his second daughter, “Philomena Carmine Bobby Pelphrey. Another miracle. Welcome to our family youngest queen! Kaley you showed up in every way as a partner and a mom even when you weren’t feeling your best- you’re a CHAMPION. The girls and I would be lost without you. Thank God for the gift of this family and these girls.”
Jumping in to the comment thread to congratulate Tom and Kaley were Beyond the Gates star Ashley Jones (Heather), Dave Annabelle, Martha Plimpton, Alyssa Milano and many more.
Share your congrats and well-wishes to Tom, Kaley, Matilda and their new addition to the family, little Philomena via the comment section below.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ Cast Dish on Steffy, Finn & Carter, Daphne Baby Drama! (Exclusive)
2026 Daytime Emmy Awards: ‘Extra’ Partners with NATAS for Pre-Ceremony Red Carpet Stream; Week of Segments Leading to Ceremony and Post-Coverage
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards Presenters Announced
Could Kristen Vaganos and Josh Kelly Be Exiting ‘General Hospital?’
Susan Flannery and Ian Buchanan Visit the Set of ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’; Daytime Emmy Winners Reflect on Show Then and Now
Tabitha Brown and Kandi Burruss Guest Star on ‘Beyond the Gates’ for Dani’s ‘Welcome to Your Life’ TV Special; What Could Go Wrong?
‘Beyond the Gates’ Stars Lami and RhonniRose Mantilla Cover Raye’s ‘Nightingale Lane’ in New Music Video
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Katie Stands Up to Brooke, ‘I Have Spent My Entire Life Sacrificing My Happiness for Yours. But No More!’
Days of our Lives’ Conner Floyd Talks Dominic Marino Mystery, Chad and Belle, and Susan Seaforth Hayes (Exclusive)
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS Preview: What Has Happened to Jill?
‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ Cast Dish on Steffy, Finn & Carter, Daphne Baby Drama! (Exclusive)
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Adam Delivers Sally’s Baby as Billy Reels from Jill’s Health Crisis in Tearjerker Episode
‘Days of our Lives’ Reveals Kyle Pryor Cast as Dominic Marino
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Finn Blows a Gasket After Steffy Reveals She’s Gone Ahead and Become Carter and Daphne’s Surrogate
‘Beyond the Gates’ and Daytime Emmy Nominee Mike Manning to Chat Live on the Michael Fairman Channel
-
Beyond the Gates2 days agoTabitha Brown and Kandi Burruss Guest Star on ‘Beyond the Gates’ for Dani’s ‘Welcome to Your Life’ TV Special; What Could Go Wrong?
-
Beyond the Gates7 days ago‘Beyond the Gates’ Stars Lami and RhonniRose Mantilla Cover Raye’s ‘Nightingale Lane’ in New Music Video
-
Recaps1 week agoTHE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Katie Stands Up to Brooke, ‘I Have Spent My Entire Life Sacrificing My Happiness for Yours. But No More!’
-
Days Of Our Lives5 days agoDays of our Lives’ Conner Floyd Talks Dominic Marino Mystery, Chad and Belle, and Susan Seaforth Hayes (Exclusive)
-
Previews5 days agoTHE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS Preview: What Has Happened to Jill?
-
General Hospital7 days agoWil Traval Talks His ‘General Hospital’ Debut and Being Paired with Kelly Thiebaud
-
Beyond the Gates6 days ago‘Beyond the Gates’ Star Marquita Goings to Chat Live on the Michael Fairman Channel
-
News1 week agoY&R’s Jason Thompson and Courtney Hope to Chat Live on the Michael Fairman Channel
