Days Of Our Lives
Guy Wilson Cast As The New Will Horton On Days Of Our Lives!
Courtesy/IMDB
So just who is the actor who is taking over the coveted role of Days of our Lives‘ Will Horton from two-time Daytime Emmy winner and fan favorite, Chandler Massey? That would be Guy Wilson!
In an interview tonight on the Blog Talk Radio series, Lather Up With Littany, DAYS star Jen Lilley (Teresa) revealed the casting info during a discussion of the difficulties and challenges being a recast on a daytime soap opera, especially of a popular character. Lilley was speaking of her experience replacing Kirsten Storms as Maxie Jones on General Hospital.
Lilley went on to say, “I am very worried for Guy Wilson, who is replacing Chandler (Massey), because I love Chandler. It’s really hard to be a recast, and I can understand from an audiences point of view also why it’s hard. It’s tricky. I always give the analogy of my favorite show: If anyone but Michael C. Hall played “Dexter”, I would freak out. I hope people will be nice to Guy Wilson, because there is a scary thing built into being a recast because of the audience, and the awesome fan base. You guys are so loyal!”
This evening, Guy Wilson commented very briefly on his Twitter account when fans contacted the actor asking if it was indeed him who is the same Guy Wilson, Jen Lilley was referring to, in which Wilson tweeted, “Oh man.” Wilson had also hinted that something big was happening for him career-wise on his facebook page yesterday when he cryptically posted, “Some exciting news… can’t talk about it just yet… but stay tuned…”
As far as Guy Wilson he has quite the impressive television and motion picture resume including guest stars turns on: Breaking Bad, Bones, NCIS (where he played a gay role also), Castle and Cold Case. Wilson has also had an experience on a daytime soap opera playing a teenaged Luke Spencer (Tony Geary) on General Hospital back in 2006.
Look for Days of our Lives to soon make the official casting announcement of Wilson as Will Horton! As fans know who have been following this story thus far know, the new Will Horton will not be seen on screen till at present time early 2014, since Chandler will be seen in the role till the end of the year.
So soap fans, what is your initial reaction to the casting decision of Guy Wilson as a replacement for Chandler Massey? Comment below!
” I hope people will be nice to Guy Wilson, because there is a scary thing built into being a recast because of the audience, and the awesome fan base. You Guys are so loyal!”
OH NO! I don’t even know who he is… BUT.. have to respond quickly…
Jenn Lilly… is so right on the money…
RECAST.. takes some doing….
leave well enough alone… till we see him in act
Notice his last name is ‘Wilson’…same nicname fans gave Will and Sonny!
I noticed that right away and love it! I think he looks great and I want to see him act.
But his first name is GUY…not gay. Wish I could say the same for Will.
I’m disappointed! I thought he was doing a GREAT job. I wish they would bring him back!!
JL may be in hot water for running her mouth! I hope all is
OK because I love her as Theresa!!!
I thought about when Greg Vaughan accidentally announced Jen Lilley’s casting early! It happens when shows film 4 months in advance, actors (many of whom don’t watch the show) forget that you’re not even airing yet (and may not have even been announced)!
Other than if Chandler wanted to personally leave- I am disgusted that he put so much into the role to be replaced by someone of the physical characteristics yet as the new Will- I am not saying he Guy looks “gay”- but one has to remember the previous storyline- I cannot imagine that Abigail would have dated more or less had sex with Guy! It doesn’t ring realistic to me- Plus- I like the fact that Chandler was “straight looking” at least more so- His frame larger and better suited for his partner- The fact that Chandler- unlike Guy- who has played “gay” characters- had to build the Will role from scratch (haven’t played a “gay” character” before) If DAYS could have saved Chandler through negotiations etc— AND DID NOT- I’m disgusted- Honestly- as is I am no longer interested in the Will union- Another thing- (I’m watching now) GUY does not look as if he fits physically as the SON of Lucas and Sammy- He looks like a lil child (character wise) to be their son and even in the entire mix- Will was at the peak of rocking mode in the previous months as Will- You could see however the slowing down for writing interesting copy for his role- Won’t be surprised if Abigail will be replaced next to fix the ill matched Abigail/Will history visual if nothing else-
Comments are not a personal attack on Guy or his acting abilities! Best luck at either rate to the future careers of Chandler and Guy!
Abigail never had sex with Will-Chad was her first, and EJ her second. Gabbie and Will were the ones who dated and eventually had sex.
Chandler Massey left the show because he wanted to go to college. Initially the character was going to be written off but they went with a recast instead
I agree , I do not like Guy playing the role of Will , and I also am no longer interested in that part of the show. Chandler is an outstanding actor and I will miss him, but like I said I could care less about Will and Sonny now!
Very disappointed. I really came to like Will. Thus guy isn’t attractive enough for Sonn.y. Where did old Will end up? Geez.
Switch the Will’s up and get a man for the job, not a greasy skin and bones facsimile. Please listen to your fans!
same here its thursday and havent watched all week till today ,Im like oh hell no
I agree and very much miss the other Will who was very good looking and a Great Actor. This new Will is never going to make true watchers happy. I also like Sonny who is also very good looking and he never would have chosen this new guy who is not good looking. I now do other things when they are on screen. Bring back the other Will and give this new guy another story line.
I was completely shocked today when I was watching my soap days of our lives, to see that Will Horton was not there anymore and that they had replaced him with this guy. It really really really really upset me actually but, I guess that’s how it goes. They did it once for Nicole’s sister Taylor and then again for Cameron Davis; and I never would’ve thought in a million years they’d do it to Will Horton–but I am disappointed–I mean I’ll give this guy a shot for sure… love to see him act but it just doesn’t feel the same to me. Plus, I really wonder how Samantha is going to react when she notices that her son doesn’t look like her son anymore but has the same name (jks) but that is just my point. It totally makes me feel like stopping watching the soap entirely when things like that happen. Now, what I really want to know is, what happened to Will Horton a.k.a. Chandler Massey? And why did he have to leave the show and be replaced?! I absolutely adore him.
I think he wanted to leave-he had to be replaced by someone-and Bo and Nick are already gone, but still somewhat in the storyline-and messages from Cameron also-not sure about this new guy-but time will tell.
JFKI don’t like the new Will at all just saw him today & was shocked a new one was playing the part. You were changing Will a couple of other times & finally got it right with this last Will. He even had looks like Sami to make it more realistic to pass as her son. This new Will no way for one he looks too young for the part. Massey Chandler to me was the best Will you ever had & I am going to miss him. I don’t think I could ever get used to this new guy.
I was so appalled to see a new “Will.” And this one does not fit with Sonny at all. In fact, I haven’t seen any real acting with him. Chandler at least played the role believingly. I’m not sure this guy ever acted, even though it is shown that he has, beyond a school level. It will take a lot to convince me he is Will, Lucas and Sammy’s handsome son (which this guy is not by any stretch of the imagination). I think it is wonderful that Chandler wanted to go on to college but I think the timing just stinks. I am no longer interested in this line on the show. If they never show Will again (this actor as Will), it won’t be too soon for me. Just when you get someone who fits a role and makes it work, DOOL gets rid of them. I don’t know that I can ever believe that Sonny, who is awesome so don’t get rid of him! belongs with this actor.
I just want to know why he was re-casted. What was wrong with the other one?
I think many people will no longer be interested in the Sonny & Will part of the show. Chandler was perfect for the role of Will and this Guy seems weird and strange…he just don’t fit in the role…sorry but i will be fast forwarding through any of his scenes
I am very disappointed in the “new” Will and will not be watching Days any longer.I seldom watch it now and it used to be my favorite soap.There is too much “tolerance” in the world today of those who choose to live in sin of different kinds,greed,money hunger,envy,power,ect. Seems strange Will would quit the show to go to college–surely he would make more money on Days
I think they made a great choice. He’s a strong actor. Looking forward to seeing what he brings to the role.
Will Horton will NEVER belong to anyone but Chandler Massey. Days was beyond stupid not to find a way to accommodate Chandler’s schooling schedule. I am so done with this show – they lost a fabulous couple because the chemistry was with Freddie and Chandler and not just anyone in those roles. I stopped watching Days a while ago and came back b/c of WilSon – after this I won’t be back again.
After meeting Chandler last month I can say that he wanted to leave Days, whether they were accommodating to his school schedule or not. Sorry you feel the need to stop watching WilSon because he’s gone though. I think the show will continue to good by WilSon and Guy has big shoes to fill but, I’m sure he will do just fine. I have total faith in him.
I have a friend who also met Chandler in Atlanta and that’s not what he told her. I do know that things are not the way they have been presented.. Filming on a Friday and being told OVER THE PHONE he was done and not to come back? Not allowed to even say goodbye to anyone? Not get going to school – registered for 2 on-line classes, nothing on campus yet? And some totally different information from another friend I trust implicitly. This was not what it seems.
CM may not have wanted to be accommodated. Many recasts
have been successful. You just might accept Guy Wilson in the
role because you love Will and Sonny. They live on…
Good luck Guy Wilson and long live DOOL!!!
Well we know is NOT a true DAYS fans! Been watching since 72 and still love character, whether they are recast or not!
A fickle gay person????? Who woulda thunk it??
Will Horton was Chandler’s great feat and his alone…Wilson existed because of his unique contribution to the relationship…without him Wilson ceases to be…we will be measuring scenes in the future unfortunately against what has taken place and Freddy has an enormous burden to recreate what was…can’t be done because this is a new face and new personality…it must be a different chemistry and this new relationship will reflect the bad judgment of people in power who could have managed the situation better. Fans are basically jealous and selfish…they want things to go on forever as it was…many will just drop out. Being an actor, and a good one, won’t be enough to fill the hole. Sorry.
Wilson existed because of the writing!!!
I think that’s going a bit too far. Been watching soaps since the 80s and plenty of characters seem unrecastable until they are successfully recast. Including great, influential characters. Sometimes the recast becomes as popular or more popular than the original portrayer and THEIR eventual recast becomes controversial (think 3 of the 4 Carly’s on GH).
People who initially HATED Tamara Braun replacing Sarah Brown (who voluntarily left the role) on GH came to love her (not everyone, but enough that there was a meltdown when TB left that about killed HER recast, who didn’t last six months before the current and longest running Carly, Laura Wright, was cast…and the character remained popular and front burner throughout all 4 recasts).
DAYS Judi Evans–who was heavier, older, and less delicate than the original actress–replaced a popular-enough actress in a popular-enough role on AW and proceeded to turn the role of Paulina Cory into a powerhouse fan favorite she would play until the end of the show, taking it places no one imagined the character could go. Y&R’s Jess Walton also replaced a popular actress in a popular role and redefined it to become the definitive–if not orginal–portrayer in the pivotal role of Jill for decades to follow.
Alternatively, some recasts never *quite* work as well as the original but do good work keeping the character alive until an original portrayer is willing to return, such as the two very nice actresses who played Y&R’s Ashley Abbott in between Eileen Davidson’s stints.
Truth is, we don’t know what’s going to happen. But to assume that the character, couple, and show can’t survive without a single actor and refuse to watch in advance of even giving the new actor a chance to settle in doesn’t seem that smart–and it might cost you the chance to fall in love with the character and couple all over again! Give it a shot, you never know…
Actually Breck…Cali Timmins who played the first Paulina is older than Judi Evans. However…I LOVED and laughed out loud at your so diplomatic description of Judi’s Paulina as being “less delicate”. Talk about understatement. LOL. It just goes to show that recasts can work awesomely when everything aligns. And when they don’t they just don’t and its usually no ones fault despite the best of intentions. An example is Blair from OLTL…she was first played by an Asian girl…and was recast with a blonde blue eyed Southerner from Oklahoma. That Blair has gone on to becoming one of the most popular and enduring characters on the show over 3 decades. On the other hand…there have been some “dead ringer” look alike recasts that royally tanked…think Stephanie Cameron as jennifer Horton on DAYS. There is no rhyme or reason or science to recasting…it simply either works or it doesn’t. This is why DAYS, in particular, has to be extra careful. They tape so far ahead so they can’t get the fan feedback on a recast for MONTHS…whereas other shows have the luxury much sooner.
4everDAYS – that’s your opinion about the writing. But it’s a two-way street. If you have good writing but actors that suck, there is no magic. Any other two actors may not have had so much impact as Freddie and Chandler have/had. To me, both (the actor and the storyline/writing) are important. In the case of WilSon – and this is only my opinion – I very much believe that Freddie and Chandler made this work, even when the writing didn’t. I watch tv series and films also because of the actor/s. There are films that I will never ever see, because there is an actor or actors in it that I can’t stand. Whether the film wins 10 Oscars or is a blockbuster, it doesn’t change the fact that I won’t go watch the film. So for me, WilSon is Chandler and Freddie (I’ve never watched DAYS before the coming out storyline started, so I have no idea about who the previous actor playing Will was and whether he ws any good). They both created the couple – took them 2 years. How can a recast recreate that chemistry, intensity, beauty and magic with Freddie in a matter of days/weeks?
You seem to forget Chandler was a recast …… many soaps have recast popular characters with and with out success. Be happy DAYS didn’t kill the character off.
Repeating that Chandler was a recast means nothing to me. I’ve started watching with the coming out story, which was with Chandler and have never seen his predecessor, nor do I wish to as I don’t wish to watch his successor. But I’ll probably force myself to watch, to support Freddie.
All that means is that the actors who played Will before Chandler weren’t the right casting. Chandler was because he didn’t just playh the part – he IS Will. You can applaud re-casts til the cows come home and pigs fly but even if the character is still plausible that doesn’t mean a re-cast was right – it just means that the person who left didn’t “own” the character. No one but Alison Sweeney could play Sami, no one but James Scott could play EJ, only Joe Mascolo could play Stefano, etc. And I don’t care how good they would have been, NO ONE but Frances Reid and MacDonald Carey could have played Alice and Tom Horton. The chemistry between Freddie and Chandler is what made the couple and no one can find that with anyone. People who think Chandler was the low end of that copuple need to re-watch Will’s coming out process – that was a fabulous performance. Days screwed up big time.
Very few characters are not replaceable. Days has survived after replacing many of the main or original actors and in many cases the replacements are even better. No show is one actor ever.
That’s probably true (only) for soap watchers.
Days recast Mickey Horton years back and it took time to get used to John Ingles. Even the actress who plays Adrienne played Bonnie on Days only to return 10 years later as Adrienne which she originated. In ten years Chandler will be forgotten just like all the aged kids cause they will make him 40 in another year like soaps do. Had Chandler not been attractive this wouldn’t be an issue, he was not that great of an actor, yes Emmy wins but look at who he was up against. It is because of his scene partners that he looks like a good actor. That blue ribbon panel is so outdated
Talk about recast mix-ups, who remembers the John Black/Roman Brady switch-ups?
Talking about recasts, the gal that was recast for Belle was horrible, the recast for Austin was just as bad! Wanted to stop watching when that weird charter Kristin showed up again (remember her wearing false teeth and glasses oMG). Chandler did a fabulous job with his character, very believable in some areas, like coming out. Not sure what the true story is, but good luck to his replacement. We have to remember people that these guys are actors…not real life!
the character of will has been played by a few actors over the years. when he was a child, then later as a teenager and now as an adult. will has always been an important character with good storyline no matter what age or actor had the role. the recast will work because of the character not the actor.
Where did Chandler Massey go and why? Really going to be difficult to replace Chandler’s smile and beautiful happy blue eyes. This new Will does not exude any personality or any chemistry with Sonny! He is rather bland and expressionless. Why does DOOL keep trying to fix”What ain’t broke!” I have watched DOOL since the very first episode. Have seen many an actor come and go repeatedly. Only the very talented and special can grab audience attention quickly. This new Will doesn’t have IT!
No way they can replace Chandler, he won 2 emmy’s! He and Freddy had something special that no one can replace….So sorry to see him go! The show will not be the same. I am sick thinking about January coming!!!!
I have watched DOOL since it’s inception. I love the show;will not stop enjoying it due to a change in actors. Chandler looked too young and immature for the role of Will. Guy Wilson will do great,I am sure. Good luck to him! Think Teresa’s actress is very good.
LoL Jen Lilley talks too damn much!!! But wow he definitely looks like Alison Sweeney’s son!!!
I wouldn’t be too hard on her. Even Greg Vaughan, hardly a fame seeking guy–and a multi-soap vet to boot–screwed up and announced Jen Lilley’s casting early. DAYS tapes so far in advance that people have been working with these actors on a day to day basis for weeks and forget that the actors isn’t in the public consciousness. I felt bad for GV, too, since he was relatively new to the DAYS family but he didn’t get in trouble and neither should JL. Remember, most actors don’t watch the show or read the soap mags (would you follow your job when you’re not there?) and many don’t even get the script pages for characters that aren’t their own (depending on the show). While it’s obvious to us who is airing and who is not at a given time, when you’re deep into filming January or February’s scenes on DAYS, it’s easy to forget where they are with the air show or what has or has not been announced yet.
There are only 9 years difference between Alisson and Guy. Pretty freaky to me and TPTB messed up big time! In more ways than one!
He seems good actor from what I’ve seen so far. Now I just hope that there is chemistry between him and Freddie, Allison and Bryan. Welcome aboard and good luck. His last name is Wilson. obviously, he was meant to play this role.
hes a cutie give him a chance I did with jen lilley when she played maxie and it was good she did a great job
He is a good actor. I have seen him in other programs before. I wish him all the best in the role.
Laissons- lui sa chance…
Difficult how I feel about this…and well i like him. But I really liked Drew Garrett as Will Horton. His last name is wilson. LOL wow. I’m laughing but…. Please wilson fans , Give him a chance! Hope the Newwill will be good.
I’m very curious about what will happen to Guy Wilson’s character of Will.
I really don’t miss Chandler Massey. He has made a fantastic choice. It’s his life, his future. Gone and not coming back, he’s never coming back. Too Bad!
No surprise here.
I’m very disappointed that Days did not at least try to work something out with Chandler Massey. He deserved it. We deserved it. I only started watching due to the buzz about WilSon. I do hope no one is rude to a new actor as it is out o his hands. I wish him the best. But I won’t be watching to know if he does well myself. Had Days done things differently and Chandler left at the end of his contract, I would. Not rejecting a new actor, but am rejecting Days!
How do we know they didn’t try to work things out? CM has made it clear he was ready to go and he’d already informed them. It looked for a bit that there was some reconsidering, but the show moved in the direction of a recast. While the timing kind of stunk, it made sense from a contract perspective (they only have the opportunity to release someone every 13 weeks, so it was that day or December). A soap is always bigger than one character and one actor. They have to make business decisions as well as personal ones. It’s your choice what you watch/don’t, but I doubt Chandler Massey would feel good about people stopping watching the show and he wants Wilson and what they represent to stay front and center and prove taht a gay couple can draw viewers and ratings.
If Days had tried to work something out to accommodate Massey’s schedule, it more than likely would have resulted in less episode counts, which in the long-run equates to lackluster storyline and/or stops and spurts. Not good.
In order to reject DAYS, you would have to be a fan. Your comment
screams WILSON FAN ONLY!!! Goodbye.
Absolutely a Wilson fan only. DAYS IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH WITHOUT WILSON!
Lol
Hence no jemmy in practically a lifetime until now. (With very little competition)
So proud of being only a Wilson fan.
Ha ha ha. So funny with your feathers ruffled.
I will be willing to give him a chance but no one will ever replace Chandler. Everyone has grown to love him as the original Will. And I do wish Chandler all the best in whatever he should choose to do in life. But it is really hard to be the replacement for another star. I wish they could have worked out something with Chandler. Or they could have brought in this young man as another love interest for Sonny. I hope it all works out for everyone
He sounds like an experienced actor and should do well with Freddie. Plus he’s super cute.
I am willing to give him a chance and when I say chance,I mean more then just his first scene. I can imagine people are going to be ugly and try to discredit him before they see him in action. I figured the producers must have tested him with Freddie and Alison to see if there is chemistry and they must have liked what they seen.
I’m with u on this Littlemo Chandler and Freddie r amazing tg. I won’t be watching when C goes. The producers could have done more to keep C. I love Freddie but I can’t see him with another actor.
You do not know what they were WILLing to do for CM.
They knew what they had, but the show must go on with
or without you. I hope you choose “with”!
According to Eileen Davidson (who declined special treatment) and Alison Sweeney (who has the most customized schedule accomodations for a leading woman in soaps today), DAYS is VERY willing and works hard to work with their top actors, even when it inconveniences other actors and schedules (the reason Eileen wouldn’t accept special treatment, according to multiple interviews with her). It was clear Corday didn’t want CM to go–he even considered not recasting at all–so I suspect there were overtures to keep him. But if you want to go to college full time (especially if you want to return in your sophomore/junior year where your classes get more specialized) it’s awful hard to also play a leading role on a soap opera. If you wanted to go 1/2 time, sure, but not full time, which CM made clear at multiple fan events was his plan–he wants his degree and he wants to learn Mandarin Chinese. He was okay with a recast, I think we should at least be open to it ourselves.
Amen!
Corday didn’t want CM to go? Give me a break! The dude changed his mind just coz he wanted to and to piss off people.
Why is there talk about both sides (Chandler and TPTB) blindsiding the other with their attitude? How ridiculous and unprofessional does that come across, if there is any truth to it? Something is just weird about this. And do we actually know for sure that Chandler wanted out early? He said he was glad things turned out like they did, but I’m not sure I buy all that. Just my gut feeling.
None of my doubts will bring back Chandler, so I guess I should drop this. But I can’t. 🙂
In terms of accommodation, CM’s agent also could have pulled him aside and introduced him to one of the four Berlitz Language centers in the L.A. area These places are not only very accommodating and self-paced, but they’re open 7-days a week, into the evening. And while learning Mandarin, he probably could have thrown in Cantonese and a couple of other dialects to boot… lol!
Looks like Jen let the cat out of the bag. I’m not feeling Guy right now. Chandler owned the role of Will, but I will give Guy time to win me over. Most of all, I like the character and want to see Will in Salem. But Guy has big shoes to fill!
We should all give this actor a fair chance at playing Will and see what he has to offer
Well when your last name is Wilson– it does seem like fate to be cast to play the Will half of WilSon. LOL. The success of a recast depends on a number of factors. How long did the original actor play the role? How long was the time gap between departure and recast? How popular was the original actor in the role? Guy Wilson is the unfortunate position of having a number of these factors against him for the get go. I am on the wait and see mindset. I have seen some recasts bomb, others were better in the role than the original — he just has to be prepared to accept there will be a number of fans, no matter how good he is, will never accept anyone in that role but Chandler. I just hope he doesn’t take that too personally.
I feel as if this is a do or die situation!!! Give him a chance!!!
Just as long as he knows how to go kiss like the mean it. I love gay actors if they do it right.
Doesn’t LOOK like Will. That’s my only gripe. I’m sure Guy is a talented actor, as DAYS has always been amazing in their casting department. We just need to give him time. I just worry about his chemistry with the important people in Will’s life, especially Sonny and Sami. Those are the two he needs the most chemistry with.
Hopefully Chandler can come back in the future, but I have to support his decision to go forward with his education. I would’ve preferred Kevin G. Schmidt (ex-Noah, Y&R) in the role, but I am willing to go ahead and give Guy the chance to impress us.
You mean he does not look like Chandler. I think he looks
like the character should. He has a nose like AS. He has
ears like CM.
ita – And ny first reaction was he really looks like he could be Sami’s son.
I think he looks very much like he could be Marlena’s grandchild and Sami’s son, even Eric’s nephew. He bears a stronger resemblance to the Bradys than CM. What he definitely does NOT look like, though, is CM (other than being blonde). But I find that if a recast has chemistry and can act, I tend to not notice how they look after the first few weeks. Heck on OLTL, they recast an asian character with a blonde woman from Kentucky–all legit arguments about how insulting it was to asian viewers aside–it was ultimately a very, very successful recast (Kassie DePaiva still plays Blair to this day–and they had a lot of fun when they flashed back to the original Blair, with KDP reaching for a mirror with a confused look on her face). Other characters have been recast significantly older or younger–it’s all about whether the storyline, acting talent, etc. are there.
I prefer a recast rather than have a storyline abruptly end or go off point or sully the integrity of the character and the others surrounding him. Actors come and go and while some do “own” a role, I would rather my story continue if at all possible. Chandler Massey is indelibly Will Horton,and will be remembered for that. But DAYS without Will and the powerful storyline he shares with Sonny, the relationships he has with so many Salem residents, and his use as a catalisyt for many plot points is just to valuable to lose. The new actor surely was carefully and thoughtfully chosen and deserves audience support. Chandler Massey chose to go and while I am not sure DAYS was right in lopping off the klast 13 weeks of his contract, I have to accept the decisions made. If I do not like it, I can stop watching, of course, but stories go on.
Sometimes I miss the days when we did not have advance knowledge of cast changes, story points, and spoilers, or the opportunities for fan demand. I think it must make it so difficult for those behiond the scenes to plan in advance, to surprise, and the to focus on the show.
They should gag Jenn Lilley and torture her character with
prison escapee, Vargas!!!
Wow, yeah, remember when you would just turn the TV on and it would say “The part of Smartypants Elderbeesmythe is not being played by Jill Smith.” And you’d say “WTH?” and then just go with it…
I agree with this post. I support the Will and Sonny storyline and am happy that it will continue. I hope the fans will stop being so critical and give him a chance to show us his version of Will Horton.
I have already said this: Chandler decided to leave and even if the show handled his leaving very bad, the guy was not interested in WilSon anymore. That’s why I have always been ok with the recast. Chandler won 2 Emmys and got popularity thanks to this show and frankly he left appearing a little bit whiny and ungrateful. The show treated him like crap at the very end and it was unfair but I’m not so devastated because he got what he wanted: leaving the show and the character. So, as a hardcore WilSoner, I feel disappointed he didn’t want to stay a bit longer for the character and the pairing who were just at the beginning of their amazing ride as a supercouple. Not to mention the fact Freddie was/is still in the show. That is the reason I wish Chandler all the best but still think he made a bad decision and was not fair to complain about the pace of the show or the “low acting” in soap operas. Really man? ok, best wishes for the school (not very sure that was the real reason he wanted to leave, though) and your life but WELCOME to the new actor because I want WilSon to keep enlightning my screen and if Chandler is not on board anymore, well… peace.
Good! Now recast Will and Bo, pronto!
I wish all the best to Guy I’ve nothing against him personally he’s an actor who has been given a great opportunity, but I still won’t watch. Whoever wants to continue to watch, more power to you. I just can’t watch another acting in the Will role. I’d have rather they had Wilson split and introduce a new love interest for Sonny, maybe a dimera cousin of Chad and Ej. Sorry but that’s just how I feel about it.
Fair enough, but how sad that will be for the couple, the show, and the fact that DAYS was willing to take a risk on building a gay supercouple out of core family characters. These are the reasons Chandler Massey has asked his fans to give the recast a chance and agrees with the show’s decision to keep Will on the canvas. I know we’re sorry to see CM go, but who knows what lies ahead? We can only watch and find out! And continue to reward DAYS for telling this story instead of doing what two of the rumors suggested: ride off into the sunset with Sonny, ending their story forever or falling back in love with Gabi and leaving with Ari to live offscreen. Both would have been horrible. I support the show for trying and look forward to seeing what they do.
I agree, despite my own misgivings about DOOL’s thinking…it’s too easy to paint the scenario we would like to see, but that’s not what happens to an ongoing saga…admittedly DOOL is not some movie with a happy ending…and it has been doing a great job in presenting hot button issues and cannot be a screen story out of left field…the gay storyline was refreshing and it’s what got me first interested…my regret is that I invested so much in the characters that changing gears is not going to be easy…my bad…but I’m willing to see where the recast goes…Freddie deserves support from all fans and he has the task of making it work too…spiriamo
I’m with you on that! I watched WilSon because of Freddie and Chandler. If they hadn’t been so stellar I would have stopped watching long ago coz seriously, the writing for Wilson sucked at times! I still think they should not have gone the baby-route. Will and Sonny are too young! I’m in love with Wilson because of how brilliant the actors are! No superlative is good enough! I’ve never watched DAYS before early last year, therefore Chandler being a recast of Will or not is not relevant. To me, only Chandlr is Will. Only Chandler created WilSon with Freddie. Not any other actor/recast. I don’t know what I would have done when the recast had been announced when it should have – meaning when they had let Chandler stay until the end of his contract, and I don’t know what I’ll do now – whether continue to watch or not – with the way TPTB treated Chandler and the whole situation. Sucks big time!! I feel I owe it to Freddie to keep watching coz he is an amazing human being! But it’s going to be very very very difficult! Freddie and Chandler had over 2 years to build and strengthen their chemistry working relationship and trust. As much as I think Freddie to be the total proessional I feel bad for him, coz the burden to make this work is now very much all on him. Double! Triple!
I was thinking….it could be that they were originally not going to recast Will but had to, finally, for storyline integrity. That’s my hunch…. Anyway, I agree bringing in another love interest for Sonny would be good for we fans who want to keep our Wilson memories intact, but there must have been something magical about Guy that made Corday do an about-face and decide he could let CM go early. CM wanted to go because he believes his press and thinks his acting skils are on par with his looks, that maybe he can be the next James Dean. My hunch is that he’ l finaly end up on another soap. I also suspect CM is not too crazy about playing a gay character, which he never signed up for but was finaged into doing by DOOL. He wants to get his feet wet and see how big he can get. Let’s wish him well but also give Guy a chance!
Does he have the requisite Will Horton chest? .. lol!
I laughed out loud at your chest comment. My first thought was, “I wonder if the actor will be living in the gym to try to match Chandler’s physique!”
I feel sorry for him. I’ve seen the way these ‘Wilson’ fans bully each other on twitter and message boards about any and everything. Many of these fans have an unhealthy attachment to Chandler and this pairing and have become a bunch of crazy, possessive, over-obsessive people. In their eyes no one can replace CM so Guy had better beware.
I’ve seen that soooo long now. I agree! A lot of those fans
are Wilson fans only. They do not care about DAYS in general.
Well, for me only Chandler is Will. Call me crazy, possessive and over-obsessive, I don’t mind. I am not a soap watcher. Never have and never will. I pick and choose and chose to watch only WilSon. For me a recast is impossible. It’s like changing life-partner and pretending you have the same person in front of you. Someone said DAYS was willing to take the risk of building a super couple, but it never happened. There is/was too much drama and they never really let Will & Sonny be happy, for some short time at least. It’s an episode here and an episode there, but it’s exhausting. I’m all for drama, but this is overkill. What I mean to say is that as much as DAYS *tried* to build a super couple, for me WilSon worked not so much because of the writing (which at times really sucked), but because of Chandler and Freddie and how they created, made come to life, made us like and root for them no mather what and convinced us heautifully, that Will & Sonny are truly in love. They are both amazing! I don’t want to see Freddie playing Sonny all in love with an actor that is another person – from one episode to the next. I know it won’t for me. It kills me, because I want to support Freddie. I don’t know what I’ll do in January, whether to watch or not.. I’m very much torn over this.. It’s not about Guy Wilson at all. For now I don’t care who the replacement is. I just don’t want one. I know it’s a done deal, with Chandler having left, but it’s my right not to cheer for this recast. I’m also bitter about how they handled Chandler’s departure. I obviously don’t have a clue about what exactly happened, but something was not right about how they treated Chandler. I know I know I know I knooooow TPTB fired (yeah, Chandler wasn’t fired blah blah..) cast in the past or whatever, but that is NO reason to do it again. And again. If there was a fault commited by the actor, then that’s another story. But that wasn’t the case with Chandler. Telling the press that he has plans to go back to school after his 4-year contract ends, is nothing surprising. Of COURSE he would have plans for after his contract ends. He cannot wait for TPTB to let him know if they want to keep him or not, to think ablut and plan his future.
There is very probably more to this story and I’m probably being very naive and don’t have a clue about how things in Hollywood work, but my opinion about this, is that it was horribly handled and nobody’s opinion was considered. Not the actors’, not the fans’.
Whatever.
I can tell you this much:
CM had a big mouth on emmy night. He made his impending
departure announcement public before talking to DAYS, a big
mistake considering they tape four months ahead. TPTB did
not punish him. They had to end the viewer angst. If he was
not let go early, he would have spent the rest of his DAYS talking
about his expected departure, which could cause more viewer
backlash.
And let’s not forget the fact that CM’s agent is also Charlie Sheen’s.
That tells me a lot!
The new Will had to be scooped up right away or possibly not be
available when needed.
Fans need to get over it. I also met Chandler a couple of weeks ago. He was quite clear that it was always his plan to leave as he wants to pursue other things, most especially finishing school. He even said that him staying in a limited role is not something he would have considered. Chandler wants the story to continue with Will and Sonny getting married and having a family together. Guy Wilson seems to have a substantial resume. It will be hard to tell if it’s a great casting move until he airs but I have high hopes. I just hope he has good chemistry with Freddie Smith. Chandler did some amazing things playing Will. But the story to me is more important than the actor. I think it’s great that Days decided to recast instead of doing away with the role. Though, quite honestly the story is only as good as the writing, which has been sub par for Will and Sonny ever since they moved in with Gabi. I don’t care who plays Will, if Days doesn’t start writing Will and Sonny as a real couple. I am not asking them to have sex all of the time. But not allowing them to show any type of affection beyond a smack on the lips every few weeks is so unequal. It’s as if this show took a million steps backward with how brave they were a year ago. So again, I don’t care if they hired the best actor out there. Unless Days wants to write Will and Sonny as actual human beings, Will is going to be a failed character not matter what. Here’s hoping Days changes something with this new actor taking over this role.
We knoooooooow that Chandler planned to leave, but is this a reason to tell him at the end of a working day, goodbye, get lost, you’ll be replaced effective immediately! CRUEL! I don’t care if it’s typical Hollywood stuff. Time to change!
And until about mid August, there seemed to be still the possibility that Chandler could have been convinced to stay on a little lnger. Just sayin’.. It’s NOT him who is going to say that they treated him like dirt! He’d shoot himself in the foot. So, I think fans can take over that role, as other cast colleagues will keep quiet too and that’s not surprising. I mean out of all young folk on DAYS almost all are gone. Makes you wonder about what’s going on on set and behind closed doors…
It’s all in the contract. He is a small fish in a big sea.
Are you saying he should have special treatment? Why?
Because he won two emmys? Because he’s your favorite?
TPTB make decisions based on what is best for the brass and
the fans as a whole. Let me be snobby by saying a true fan of DAYS
has more input than a fan of an couple actors/characters.
Do not get me wrong. I think CM is great. Will Horton is great!
Wilson is great! They are part of something bigger; Days of our Lives.
No, I’m not saying he should get special treatment and I don’t give a da*n about Emmys to be honest. I was overjoyed that both Freddie and Chandler got nominated because it got industry people’s attention – can’t hurt.
I don’t agree that TPTB make only the decisions that are best for the fans. Nope, far from it. And I don’t have a problem with you insinuating that I’m not a true DAYS fans, coz you are probably right. Won’t stop me from commenting here, because I am a fan of WilSon, Freddie and Chandler.
New fans (Wilson fans only) hurt themselves by putting all their eggs
in one basket, or should I say not enough eggs. They could have had
other characters hold them over until they were won over by the new
Will. The Wilson only fans are suffering from their own actions. That’s
what snobbery does.
Snobbery? Seriously?!…
I meant to say Wilson only fans.
I AM a WilSon only fan.
I agree.
It’s amazing to me that a lot of fans are practically condemning other fans because they don’t want a recast. Like I said before whoever wants to continue to watch, more power to you. But don’t do exactly what u r condemning other fans for. It’s like you want us to feel bad because we don’t share your view, yes there are some fans that take things too far but do not think we are all the same. I haven’t said anything to make those of you who want to continue your support feel bad or said anything negative. Unlike many of you so doesn’t that make you just as bad as the fans you’re talking about. Be more understanding and stop trying to make fans feel like their opinion isn’t allowed.
The point I am trying to make is some viewers were never
fans of DOOL and never wanted to be anymore than just
Wilson fans.
They down DAYS about everything they can, but love
Wilson.
Clips of Days of our Lives with Wilson does not make a
person a DAYS fan. I think that makes them a snob.
That is the most ridiculous comment. Just because I only watch Wilson that makes me a snob. I watch what I’m interested in. And fyi we don’t get days in the UK just like other international fans we get to watch Dool on youtube. I really shouldn’t have to justify my viewing habits to someone who is showing snobbery to Wilson fans. Why should it bother you whether I watch Days as a whole or just Wilson. If you like watching Days good for you knock yourself out mate. But don’t judge Wilson fans because u have a holier than thou attitude. This is my last comment on the matter.
I agree with you Sandra. Why are we snobs if we only watch bits of DOOL. I for one am not living in the US either and can watch it only with what I get on YT. WilSon is enough for me.
Did “Harry Potter” fans stop watching the movies when a new actor took over the role of Dumbledore? (Yes, I know Richard Harris died). Or do James Bond fans or Batman fans stop watching when those movie franchises get new actors in the title role? Mostly, they don’t — because they are fans of the stories and the characters. It’s understandable, if you are a fan of only Chandler Massey, to stop watching because he’s gone. But be honest about what you are. If you are truly a fan of the Sonny-Will storyline, which was created by the Days writers, you will watch regardless of the actors. And if you are a fan of “Days” as a whole, you will watch regardless of which actors come and go. If you watch programs and movies only to see a particular actor, you are going to have a lot of disappointments in life!
Spot on!!!
I really don’t care what u think of Wilson fans. I find it funny that everyone is getting so worked up over this. I have no problem with all of you continuing to watch Wilson with the recast. Why does everyone have a problem that I don’t. You are all sounding like the fans that u are complaining about. There are all types of fanatical fans that includes you. You’re just the other side of the coin.
Btw with the films you mentioned people are not as attached to the characters. In that genre it’s expected to have a change of actors just like doctor who you know at some point the actor will change. Wilson is a different kettle of fish it’s based on relatable subjects you become more invested in the character / actor. Chandler put his mark on the character of Will he was the first Will to play opposite Freddie the original Wilson people have taken them to their hearts. So yes we have a deep attachment to Chandler as Will. I will not make any apologies about it I’m entitled to feel what I feel and if ppl have a problem with it, we’ll that’s just it, it’s their problem.
I agree with you again Sandra. I don’t understand why people are so upset when someone says they won’t continue watching WilSon with the recast. To each their own. I’m terribly torn, because I want to support Freddie. But I can’t handle a recast. It’s just something I’m not used to. For long-term soap watchers this is a recurring phenomenon, I find recasts very weird. In addition I’m not over-joyed with Chandler’s replacement. But maybe that’s a good thing, coz I think Chandler made Will and WilSon what it is (to me) and I can only picture him and Freddie as WilSon. Sue me! TPTB won’t care (as they never do!) about me keeping watching or not, coz I don’t contribute to the ratings anyway (am from outside of the US). So, stuff this!
I do not have a problem with Wilson fans. I’m a Wilson fan! My
problem is with WILSON ONLY fans who try to pass themselves
off as being DOOL fans knockiñg DAYS.
Well, I am a WilSon only fan, but I’m not knocking DAYS. I just prefer not to watch it (except for WilSon).
I’m sorry to all the Wilson only fans in the UK. DAYS had a great
SL in England that culminated with the wedding of Bo and Hope!
I don’t like this outcome and I don’t think it’s going to work either. I’m a bit different here in that I wasn’t particularly hung up on Will and Sonny PERIOD! But I also don’t think this recast is going to click very with Sonny either. JMO. Sonny clicked sooooooooooo well, I thought, with that tall, dark, and handsome guy named Brian. It was smoldering chemistry. Chemistry between 2 MEN, not between a MAN and a BOY. I find myself wishing that they had just written Will out and let Sonny build something with Brian. I would’ve even accepted Brant Daugherty (Brian) coming back as a new character if they wanted to tie him to one of the show’s families.
Sonny and Brian were definitely hot but Brant wasn’t available much although I think that the show could have used him more when they had him. I would love for Brian to come back (maybe revealed as a dimera) and for BriSon to happen. We really don’t know and won’t know whether this guy (ha) will click with Freddie. Wilson chemistry has been locking but maybe Guy will have that with Freddie where Chandler didn’t so much. We just have to wait and see.
I thought Days dropped the ball with Brian when Brant was around. He and Freddie have amazing chemistry and he certainly had no problems kissing another man. Daytime soaps in this country just are too afraid to do a real triangle with gay men because they could’ve had a hot one with Brian involved in the Wilson storyline. I don’t know if Brant wants to do more Days in the future but Wilson certainly need something because they are sooo boring! Snooze-worthy.
CM as Will was everyone’s fantasy gay boy. I’ve been around quite a lot, There’s not a gay or straight guy like Will anywhere in reality….We, like Sonny, could only fantasize about giving up everything in life for an angel-like Will. Will’s boyish looks were almost unearthly. Now, with the recast, we are back in the realm of reality. Brian and Sonny, they were real men, not a Rafaello painting. And that’s exactly what we’l get with Guy Wilson, Reality. We have to accept WilSon at the new level of real men. So I agree with you.
Here’s Guy from an NCIS episode, from 2 years ago, if anyone’s interested in seeing him act.
I didn’t know you couldn’t post video links on here. Sorry… my bad.
I have watched Days of our lives since I was a little girl. I am 38 now. I’m a very loyal fan Never miss a episode.I just cannot see Chandler being replaced. He is Will Hortan. I just cannot see anyone else playing his part. I wish Wilson the best of luck. I’m sure he will do a great job. It is nothing against him, I just can’t see anyone being able to replace Chandler. Why is Chandler leaving anyway?
When it comes to recasting, i believe that everyone is entitled to their own options but personally I think that all characters either a recast or a new character should be given a chance to prove themselves. Just think when One Life to Live recast Roger Hayworth role as Todd Manning with Trevor St. John people didnt like it. But eventaully grow to love St. John as Todd. Just give him a chance is all I am saying. He could surprise everyone.
I very up set I love chanlder Massey playing the part of will Horton he is my favorite on there also sonny they make a great team and I dont want to see and another guy to take his place why on god green earth would even think about doing a recast take away one of your strong players out of the picture grant you chanlder has that face that draw young people to watch days if he goes there goes your public your rating will go down you ask your self what happen — and someone will say dud you change Will Horton from Chanlder Massey to Guy Wilson get the old guy back which is Chanlder and that s my 2 cents and really I can write days script cause when I see something oh my I will perdict what will happen and 5 to 6 weeks it happens just like I stated it and I will let u know this I know who took the raxor from raff room it was Maxise the Nurse
one more thing why is Chanlder leaving Days I know he is in too Tennis so is he making a career of want too try please give him my best and I love watching him will he plan to come back after a couple or more years down the road it would be nice if that would happen
Grow up, people, it’s a freakin’ t.v. show!
People need to realize that everyone leave a soap opera…as a matter fact…leave tv shows in general in order to further their career or education. Chandler stated in an interview that he wanted to go back to college to get his degree. I personally do not blame him. Its only a tv show. You should be watching the show for the storylines and writing not just because of one character.
Days will continue to be an awesome show regardless of who becomes Will, he isn’t a main character but a supporting one. This said it would have been nicer to have one just a tad younger so that Sammy’s son was truer to his actual age as Guy is a bit old for the part but that is show biz I guess.
I think this is a big mistake! Couldn’t they find someone as good looking as old Will…..
He looks a little young for the part, but I wish him well.
PLEASE don’t let Chandler Massey go!!! He is the perfect Will, the show will not be the same. You can not keep letting characters go if you want to win!!!!
Great young actor.. Already has the day time res for the roll … Look forward to seeing him …. I’m sure the fan base will welcome him at his new role
I am sure this new actor will be fine in the role, viewers need to just give him an
honest chance. He certainly appears to be a competent and accomplished young actor, and Chandler Massey is vacating the role, so fans over a period of time will
adjust I think to the new actor taking over the part of Will.
We need to keep Wilson as a large part of Days of Our Lives.
Chandler put his heart and soul into the role, Being a married gay man myself, I can really relate to ‘WILSON’. However, I agree with some other comment on this page that the writing and storyline as lately for these 2 as been subpar. And no 2 gay men would put up with such a stuck up girl like G-A-B-B-Y !! Come on — get real! She is a bitch and Will should through her ass out.
I LOOOOOOOOOVE Chandler Massey…..LOOOOOOOOOOOVE HIM…..Right now it makes me sad that he will be leaving, and I can’t right now accept the new guy……but if he and “Sonny” have a good conection and their story gets better than I will get use to it…..I will probably cry when Chandler is gone for good :'(
I WILLLLL cry when Chander leaves……
I know recasts are difficult but I just don’t like the choice…. he looks more like one of JJ’s friends than a 20 something dad. He looks so much younger than the actors he will play opposite of… sorry.
Breaking News
51st Annual Daytime Emmy Award Nominations: CBS Soaps Score Most, Eric Braeden, Dick Van Dyke, Guy Pearce Receive Nods
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) have officially announced on Friday, the full list of nominees for the 51st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards.
While Thursday brought with it four reveals of the nominees in the Outstanding Daytime Drama, Talk Show Host, Lead Actor and Actress categories (as presented by various entertainment news programs), today’s nominations include all the other categories not previously announced.
The Daytime Emmy Awards telecast is set to be presented live on Friday night, June 7, at 8 PM EDT /delayed PT, on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on-demand on Paramount+. This will mark the 18th time that CBS has broadcast the Daytime Emmys.
Photo: JPI
In addition, The Daytime Creative Arts & Lifestyle Emmy Awards will be presented on Saturday, June 8 at t9 PM ET/6 PM PT and streamed on The Emmys apps and at watch.TheEmmys.tv. The ceremonies will take place at the Westin Bonaventure Los Angeles.
Television icon, Dick Van Dyke has received his first-ever Daytime Emmy nomination in the Outstanding Guest Performer category for his touching portrayal of Timothy Robicheaux on Peacock’s Days of our Lives. The nomination makes Van Dyke the oldest Daytime Emmy nominee in history at 98-years-old. In addition, motion picture and TV star, Guy Pearce, is also nominated as Guest Performer for his longtime role as Mike Young in the reboot of Neighbours.
Speaking of Neighbours, the Australian soap opera also received its first ever Daytime Emmy nomination for Daytime Drama Series now that its a revival can be streamed on Amazon Freevee. In addition, The Young and the Restless iconic, Eric Braeden (Victor Newman) received his first Daytime Emmy nomination in more than 20 years in the Lead Actor in a Drama Series category.
Photo: AmazonFreevee
In the Daytime Drama series categories, CBS’ The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless each scored 12 nominations more than any other show. Leading the acting nominations was B&B, who landed 7 performers in the various categories, a first in its 37-year history.
In a statement, Adam Sharp, President & CEO, NATAS expressed, “We are happy to once again honor the creative talent both in front of and behind the camera of America’s favorite Daytime programs. We look forward to celebrating the icons who enliven the days of audiences across the country.”
Photo: JPI
Brent Stanton, Head of Daytime, NATAS added, “Producing the Daytime Emmys is a labor of love for all of us at NATAS. The huge popularity of these shows continues to be must-see viewing for their fans.” NATAS also revealed that Lifetime Achievement Honorees, Hosts, Presenters, and Silver and Gold Circle honorees will be revealed at a later date.
The Daytime Emmy Awards recognize outstanding achievement in television programming honoring work in a variety of categories, including daytime dramas, talk shows, instructional programming, hosting, culinary, and legal/courtroom programs. In 2021, NATAS and the Television Academy jointly announced plans to realign the Daytime and Primetime Emmy Awards to be organized by content genre, as opposed to program airtime.
The 51st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be produced once again by NATAS and Associated Television International (ATI). Adam Sharp and Lisa Armstrong are executive producers from NATAS, while David McKenzie executive produces from ATI.
Congratulations to all the men and women in front of the camera and behind the scenes for their recognition as we take a look at who will be going for gold come June. Here are the nominees below starting with the Daytime Drama Categories.
Photo: JPI
OUTSTANDING DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES
The Bay
The Bold and the Beautiful
Days of our Lives
General Hospital
Neighbours
The Young and the Restless
OUTSTANDING LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES: ACTRESS
Tamara Braun, Days of our Lives
Finola Hughes, General Hospital
Katherine Kelly Lang, The Bold and the Beautiful
Annika Noelle, The Bold and the Beautiful
Michelle Stafford, The Young and the Restless
Cynthia Watros, General Hospital
Photo: JPI
OUTSTANDING LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES: ACTOR
Eric Braeden, The Young and the Restless
Scott Clifton, The Bold and the Beautiful
Thorsten Kaye, The Bold and the Beautiful
Eric Martsolf, Days of our Lives
John McCook, The Bold and the Beautiful
Photo: JPI
OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE IN A DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES: ACTRESS
Jennifer Gareis, The Bold and the Beautiful
Linsey Godfrey, Days of our Lives
Courtney Hope, The Young and the Restless
Allison Lanier, The Young and the Restless
Emily O’Brien, Days of our Lives
Photo: JPI
OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE IN A DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES: ACTOR
Robert Gossett, General Hospital
Bryton James, The Young and the Restless
Wally Kurth, Days of our Lives
A Martinez, The Bay
Mike Manning, The Bay
Photo: JPI
OUTSTANDING GUEST PERFORMANCE IN A DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES
Linden Ashby, The Young and the Restless
Ashley Jones, The Bold and the Beautiful
Alley Mills, General Hospital
Guy Pearce, Neighbours
Dick Van Dyke, Days of our Lives
OUTSTANDING WRITING TEAM FOR A DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES
The Bay
The Bold and the Beautiful
Days of our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Photo: JPI
OUTSTANDING DIRECTING TEAM FOR A DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES
The Bay
The Bold and the Beautiful
Days of our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
OUTSTANDING LIGHTING DIRECTION
General Hospital
The Jennifer Hudson Show
The Kelly Clarkson Show
The View
Photo: ABC
OUTSTANDING TECHNICAL DIRECTION, CAMERAWORK, VIDEO
The Bold and the Beautiful
Days of our Lives
Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade
The Kelly Clarkson Show
OUTSTANDING CASTING
African Queens: Njinga
Days of our Lives
General Hospital
Start Up
The Young and the Restless
OUTSTANDING ART DIRECTION/SET DECORATION/SCENIC DESIGN
African Queens: Njinga
The Drew Barrymore Show
General Hospital
The Kelly Clarkson Show
The View
The Young and the Restless
OUTSTANDING COSTUME DESIGN/STYLING
African Queens: Njinga
The Bold and the Beautiful
The Jennifer Hudson Show
Sherri
Photo: WarnerBros
OUTSTANDING HAIRSTYLING AND MAKEUP
African Queens: Njinga
The Drew Barrymore Show
Sherri
The View
The Young and the Restless
OUTSTANDING ORIGINAL SONG
“Shine” General Hospital
“Unexpected Truth”Unexpected
“We’re Home” Reconnecting Roots
OUTSTANDING DAYTIME TALK SERIES
The Jennifer Hudson Show
The Kelly Clarkson Show
Tamron Hall
Turning The Tables with Robin Roberts
The View
Photo: ABC
OUTSTANDING ENTERTAINMENT NEWS SERIES
Access Hollywood
Entertainment Tonight
Extra
OUTSTANDING CULINARY SERIES
Be My Guest with Ina Garten
Family Dinner
Selena + Chef: Home for the Holidays
Valerie’s Home Cooking
What Am I Eating? with Zooey Deschanel
OUTSTANDING LEGAL/COURTROOM PROGRAM
Hot Bench
Judy Justice
Justice For The People with Judge Milian
The People’s Court
We The People with Judge Lauren Lake
Photo: Disney/ABC
DAYTIME TALK SERIES HOST
Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Alyssa Farah Griffin, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin, Ana Navarro, The View
Kelly Clarkson, The Kelly Clarkson Show
Mark Consuelos, Kelly Ripa, Live with Kelly and Mark
Akbar Gbajabiamila, Amanda Kloots, Natalie Morales, Jerry O’Connell, Sheryl Underwood, The Talk
Tamron Hall, Tamron Hall
OUTSTANDING CULINARY HOST
Lidia Bastianich, 25 Years with Lidia: A Culinary Jubilee
Valerie Bertinelli, Valerie’s Home Cooking
Eduardo Garcia, Big Sky Kitchen with Eduardo Garcia
Emeril Lagasse, Emeril Cooks
Sophia Roe, Counter Space
Buddy Valastro, Legends of the Fork
OUTSTANDING DAYTIME PERSONALITY – DAILY
Frank Caprio, Caught in Providence
Kevin Frazier, Nischelle Turner , Matt Cohen, Cassie DiLaura, Denny Directo, Will Marfuggi, Rachel Smith, Entertainment Tonight
Deborah Norville, Steven Fabian, Lisa Guerrero, Ann Mercogliano, Jim Moret, Les Trent. Inside Edition
Robert Hernandez, Star Jones, Divorce Court
Judge Judy Sheindlin, Whitney Kumar, Kevin Rasco, Sarah Rose, Judy Justice
What do you think about the nominations for the 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards? Who do you think deserved to get in that did? Who do you think got snubbed? Who are you happiest to see receive a nomination? Let us know via the comment section below.
Make sure to be with us live starting tonight Friday, April 19th at 8pm ET/5pm PT for the Michael Fairman Channel’s 10th anniversary edition of its Daytime Emmy Nomination Special 2024, featuring some of the just announced daytime drama nominees.
Days Of Our Lives
Stephen Schnetzer Talks On His Return to Days of our Lives and Working with Susan Seaforth Hayes In Emotional Episodes
Who says you can’t go home again? In the case of Another World favorite, Stephen Schnetzer (ex-Cass Winthrop), he has proven that it is true, and you can go back to your soap roots and where it all started for you.
Last week on April 11th, Schnetzer, along with several other key returns were on set at Days of our Lives taping all-new episodes of the Peacock streaming soap opera, centering on the funeral of Doug Williams (the late Bill Hayes), and as part of the iconic soap opera’s 15,000th episode.
Stephen is reprising his first daytime role as Steve Olson, the brother of Julie Williams (Susan Seaforth Hayes). The last time Schnetzer appeared on a DAYS set was during his one and only run on the show from 1978 to 1980. Clearly, viewers will be in for some very emotional scenes when Steve returns to Salem to be there for his sister, Julie in her time of need. In real-life, Susan has been going through her own grief, having just lost Bill back on January 12th at the age of 98.
Photo: NBC
Michael Fairman TV caught up with Stephen during the 15K episode celebration ceremony, and during a break from taping the gut-wrenching funeral scenes, to get his thoughts on being part of these highly-anticipated moments that will air later this year in December. Here’s what he shared with us below.
What has this been like for you to work with Susan Seaforth Hayes after all of these years?
STEPHEN: She’s a dream and she’s so bright. We ran lines yesterday and we ended up just visiting for about 45 minutes and just catching up and telling tales about each other’s career. She even dropped off the autobiography that she and Bill did. And being back here at DAYS, every time I turn a corner, there’s another familiar face. When I was on the show 40 more years ago, a bunch of the guys, played softball on a team together. This is really a trip down memory lane as I knew it would be.
Photo: JPI
Taping Doug’s funeral must be a hard day for Susan. Are you checking in with her to help hold her up through this?
STEPHEN: I am and I’m checking in with Amy Shaughnessy (Susan’s assistant), and she’s holding her up more than anybody. We’re there for each other.
There will obviously be some major hankie-inducing moments when Steve comes back to Salem to console his sister.
STEPHEN: Oh, wait till you see it in December. It’s going to be great.
Were you surprised you got this call to come back to the show decades later?
STEPHEN: It was out of the blue! I was completely surprised. They should have called me decades ago! That’s what surprised me. When Another World went down, I thought I’d land somewhere else and it never happened. That was more of a surprise.
Photo: JPI
Cass is such an identifiable character for you. As well, you and Linda Dano (ex-Felicia Gallant) are so synonymous together as best friends Cass and Felicia from Another World. When fans heard you were reprising your role as Steve Olson on DAYS, they are now hoping there will be more of you on the show to come.
STEPHEN: Steven Olson is a real “Cassian “character. I cut my teeth on Steve Olson and that’s how Cass was introduced. He was kind of a roguish charmer. And then when the character stuck for Another World, they rehabilitated me, and turned me into one of the shows heroes. And that’s what would’ve happened if I stayed as Steve Olson probably. So, Steve is the ‘pre-Cass’, Cass.
Photo: JPI
As the story goes, you originally decided to leave Days of our Lives?
STEPHEN: I was never on contract. I was doing a day and a half a week and I got a Broadway play directed by Franco Zeffirelli starring Joan Plowright and Frank Finlay. I was able to it as I didn’t have to break a contract or anything. I cut loose and went back to New York for that.
How well did you get to know Bill Hayes during your first time around on DAYS?
STEPHEN: My first episode was with Bill and Susan, as her long lost brother coming into Salem. They were so good to me. They were so kind. I had been doing eight years of classical repertory theater, never been in front of a camera. I tell everybody, it took me longer than any other actor I’ve ever seen to get comfortable in front of a camera. And they were very supportive at that time in my career. Coming back to honor Bill now in 2024, and to be see Susan, I am just so happy to be here.
Looking forward to seeing the scenes between Stephen and Susan Seaforth Hayes come December and Doug’s funeral and surrounding episodes? Do you hope that DAYS might bring the character of Steve Olson back for a longer stay? Comment below.
Breaking News
51st Daytime Emmys: Outstanding Daytime Drama Series Nominations
On Thursday, the 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards revealed nominations in several key categories via four entertainment news programs: Access Hollywood, E! News, Extra and Access Hollywood.
Three of the four announcements were major categories in the field of Daytime Dramas.
The nominees in the Outstanding Daytime Drama Series category are: The Bay, The Bold and the Beautiful, Days of our Lives, General Hospital, Neighbours and The Young and the Restless.
Photo: JPI
General Hospital won this category last year, and has the most all-time wins for a series in this category. For the first time, the beloved Australian-based soap opera, Neighbours is now eligible for competition due to its reboot which streams on Amazon Freevee.
Photo: AmazonFreevee
The 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be handed out in ceremonies in Los Angeles and broadcast live on CBS and streaming on Paramount+ on Friday night, June 7th.
Previous categories announced tonight via the entertainment news outlet included: Lead Actor and Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
So, what do you think about this year’s nominee for the Outstanding Daytime Drama Series? Who do you think should win? Comment below.
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