Breaking News
Judith Chapman Confirms She Is Back On DAYS And As Leo’s Mom
Exciting news DAYS fans, those rumblings were true! Judith Chapman will be playing the trouble-making Leo Stark’s (Greg Rikaart) mother on Days of our Lives. And that reunites Chapman with Rikaart as mother and son.
As soap fans know, they played Gloria and Kevin Fisher on The Young and the Restless for many years together. Now they will be playing a new mother/son dynamic duo in Salem. But, just what kind of twisted relationship might they have, since Leo has given clues that she was a bad mom?
Soap Opera Digest revealed that Judith will play Diana. Her first airdate will be on January 29th. DAYS fans know Judith from her time as Angelica Deveraux from 1989-1991, and most recently when she returned to the show for the 2018 Halloween episode doing a guest-turn as Angelica AKA Satan in Hattie’s (Deidre Hall) nightmare.
Chapman confirmed her arrival on the Salem scene in a tweet today, stating “And I don’t have to keep the secret either Mitch Sandusky! What a GREAT way to start 2019… More articles to come in TV Guide Magazine and Soap Opera Digest… and to be reunited with my TV son.
Diana will have a past with John Black (Drake Hogestyn), which could cause trouble for John and Marlena’s wedded bliss.
So, excited to know Judith will once again tear up the soap-screen, but this time back on DAYS? Comment below.
Love that Judith is returning to Days, doesn’t matter her role – she is outstanding!!
Same here Nicole, Judith and Kevin already have played mother and son so well on Y&R, they are going to really chew up the scenery together on DAYS!
Connection to John Black? Diana? Is this Diana Colville?
Hmmmm–WOW, Scot!! Yes, could very well be Diana!!
And then Leo is Johns other son
Yes, and maybe she is John’s Other Wife. Sorry, couldn’t resist the reference to a very old Soap, that only old timers like me will know.
Rons a idiot….recasting her….Diana was a big character for 3years. They probaly couldnt afford Genie francis back.
[Mic drop]
Yas!
I’ll begin the discussion by saying that it’s a great idea using Judith as Leo’s mother. The best choice the show could make.On another topic, Why Ron are you writing Zander as a person who can’t fight? There is no way that Eric should have been able to pen Zander against the wall without him defending himself. Don’t allow this show to become one sided. Plus, I agree with everything DA Trask said about the police in Salem; there’s too much favoritism in that town. I would love for her to become the mayor ; not for just a few months, but for a while. I’m tired of them railroading Ben , allowing Gabi and Kate to walk without consequences , and whatever other crimes that exist.
i’m hoping Xander is really trying to toe the line.. keep his cool… remain under control… at all times… ie: Celia N JimH.. that Xander is wanting to prove to Victor that his allegiance will bring down Leo… who by all accounts tongue wagging Leo has a crush on. there are so many interesting plot points that this could all play out. Xander saves Sonny case closed … argh !?!?
I am already smitten and WANT Paul Tolfer’Xander on the show. he’s zany … dastardly… OK every physical attribute ON… etc from day 1 I saw the chemistry with the best of the best Victor Kiriakis… who wants nothing more than HIS FAMILY at the helm .. first family indeed… w/Xander PUHLEASE
also the fan following of the best mother/son duo .. is back on the air… legions of following… three actors who are beguiling so much hoopla and town mayhem could should and will ensue with this twosome… so.. no one truly wants either of them to take the fall. they are beloved enough…acting class stand in line. dang it
three misfits… three fired up presence… savor all of it
Xander / Leo / Diana – the grand dame of highest order Judith Chapman….
I LOVE THEM
The whole Leo hitting on Xander thing is basically yet another ReRon rewrite, in this case it’s just like when he had Brad trying to sleep with Mikey on GH. Mikey was completely hetero and not remotely interested, so eventually Brad gave up and went after Mikey’s uncle Lucas.
Of course Xander isn’t Mikey, so of course he’s going to find a way to play this thing to his advantage. I’m guessing he won’t actually go through with sex with Leo, but he will be able to make Leo think he did. Which probably means drugs of some sort will be involved.
I agree, I am ready for Xander, Leo and Diana in the mansion!
Blake, oh, Blake!!… so happy I’m not the only one who doesn’t like Sarah!!
Not a good match for Eric, at all….she seems desperate, if you ask me. That’s the problem with these shows….as soon as one of the characters has been hurt; feels used; has a cold ( LOL), he/she has the need to ‘do’ someone else…..
Sarah is not sticking to me—-I wish she’d go away.
What will happen when Nicole comes back? Been there; done that–
Eric needs to mourn. Leave the guy alone…..
Exactly, Patrick…..Xander needs to do something drastic to prove himself and be accepted by unkie.
He’s a wily one….so, he needs to play his cards right. Leo is smitten. Xander can use this to his advantage–question is; will he go through the bed “tumbling”?
Knock, knock ….who’s there? Unkie Vic?….or, will Sonny simply walk in? Coitus interruptus? LOL.
I thought Eric pinning Xander against the wall was stupid also. Plus we’re not cheering for Eric lately, he’s wrapped up with the horrible Sarah lately and they are annoying AF.
Blake, am agreeing with all you say, especially Sarah. She’s the same twit she was on B&B. She’s like a pesty gnat, you’d like to swat away. Also, its hard to believe she’s Maggie’s daughter. I think the best one was the gal, Brady found on the beach in L.A. I don’t know the other daughter. She doesn’t seem like much of a doctor either. Probably got her license off of the internet.
Ugh….
Never liked her
And uh…. “Diana will have a past with John Black”??
Is this to imply that this character is supposed to be Diana Colville, the character played by Genie Francis in the late 1980s? Because that would be a completely ridiculous excuse for a recast (ReRon strikes again)
Diana was also pregnant when she left Salem, if a Devil remembers correctly. So that implies that Leo would be John’s kid?? John has two long lost sons, both of them turn out to be gay and both interfere with Will & Sonny’s relationship?? What are the odds of that actually happening??
To be fair (and of course, the Devil is never fair), what are the odds of just about anything that takes place on a soap happening in real life? 🙂
Love your name, SonniSolita! I’ve been watching Guiding Light clips on youtube. What a great character and actress!
LOVE THIS!
Diana’s last name wouldn’t happen to be Colville, would it? As for Leo, he is such a scum that i bet Diana will turn out to be a sweetheart and it was always Leo who treated her badly. I’m just glad Judith will be on our screens again. She is one actress who should always be employed because she is so good.
Judith Chapman really does need to stay on soaps. Y&Rs lost is Days gain.
Always like Judith glad to see her back on Days.It was just awhile ago I saw her on the Young and the Restless boring show.I usually dont watch it but Judith was on that day.She makes a great villain .I can’t wait to see what is going to happen when she comes back.Always been a fan of hers.Welcome home Judith
Awesome news! I love Miss Chapman, have for years. And always a big fan of Mr. Rikaart too. They work so well together. Y&R’s loss and DOOL’s gain. Please DOOL, keep the two vital and in the Salem mix. Don’t let DOOL turn into GH, bloated with too many characters and repetitive tropes.
Uh, you do realize who it was who bloated GH with “too many characters and repetitive tropes.”, right?
Yep, it was ReRon. And he did so, by doing exactly what he’s doing now in Salem… bringing in a bunch of new people from other soaps and making THEM the focus of the show, rather than the actual Days characters.
I do. My hope though is DOOL learned from GH and uses the excitement of new people and familiar actors to propel stories for legacy characters. It can be done. But you are very wise, Satan (!), in your assessment. We could be traveling the same wonky Port Charles highway to nowhere now in Salem. I just hope not.
Ron isn’t bloating Days, in the year and a half he’s been with the show he’s great at keeping all characters on the air and in a story. And like all soaps have done in the past when characters, especially contract players leave is when he brings on other characters. Example is Abby and Chad are leaving the show in a few weeks, and that’s when Diana and Jordan are returning to the show. Plus we know Jordan is just for a short term visit, not sure about Judith Chapman though. I’d love for her to be on contract. Plus a lot of actors are on one year contracts: Greg Rikaart, Kyle Lowder, the actor who plays Ted.
Nice to see Judith working…what a loss for Y&R though. Wish she AND Greg were back. Y&R has lost SOOOOOOO many of the greats. Hard to watch these days.
But not hard to watch these DAYS!
So excited to have Judith back on my soap!! She’ll be divine with Greg.
Ron C has a way of tying the show’s history into new characters he introduces well. He did that on GH (to varying degrees of effectiveness) and he’s already proven his ability to do that on DAYS. So Diana having a past with John, meaning she will likely be revealed as Diana Colville, jives with his writing style.
But the real goldmine here is that Judith and Greg will be playing mother and son again! Gloria and Kevin were a highlight of Y&R, and a dynamic that has been sorely missed since both characters were written out. Leo has already caused so much chaos for the Kiriakis family, and if Judith really is Diana Colville, her past with Victor is sure to continue the chaos for months to come!
But Dianna as played by Genie Francis was a heroine, not a bitchy type that Judith does so well. In the same way that Rex was a stand up guy and not a cad as he’s played now by Kyle Lowder. I don’t think I like that they are returning characters in with actors who had previously been in different roles. It sure gets confusing. I would have liked Angelica to come back from the dead and turn out to be Leo’s mother. Her initiials were on one of those doors AD…but I guess that will be Andre Dimera instead.
AD should be Alexandria DiMera(Lexie Carver)!
That actually would be an interesting twist. But Renee Jones retired from acting. And the last thing we need is yet another ridiculous ReRon recast.. Who would ReRon cast as Lexie? I’m guessing some blonde actress from OLTL??
DAYS must do everything possible to get Renee Jones to return, but if she says no a thousand times, Victoria Rowell. If that can’t happen, leave Lexie linger.
If they still did recast announcements on the show they could say “the role of Diana Colville is being recreated by Judith Chapman”, the way they did with Marj Dusay on Guiding Light when she was recast as Alexandra Spaulding.
Ive wanted to see Diana colville back since she left in 1989….rons ruined it by recasting…he might aswell just bring her in as some random new character. Total fu**ed up ron
Judith Chapman! What a treat!
Great to hear the rumors are true. I think Judith will be wonderful on Days right now, especially as Leo’s mother. Imagine her going at it with Adrienne, Maggie and Marlena. And hopefully flirting with Victor and John. Can’t wait for this!
This is fantabulous!! Mother and son re-unite!! Yeayyyy! Love both these actors….in the hope that their connection as mother and son will be as strong and entertaining as “Gloria” and “Kevin”….this I “gotta” see!
Also, I am soooo enjoying Xander and Leo–hilarious!!
We now need Doug Davidson as David Banning
Was hoping when he opens the door, she will say “hello angel”, Gloria’s name for Kevin. Never thought a character I’ve liked so much, could become one, I can’t stand watching. Guess it shows what a great actor Greg Rikaart is. Hope I spelled that right.
Hi, Violet,
If you remember, we all detested Kevin when he first came to GC…..he was truly a devious meanie–then, he ‘grew’ into a good guy….with an edge. The same may happen with Leo and Xander. I love both these actors, so I hope they stick around.
You spelled the name right…..Greg has become such a household name for Y&R watchers, the spelling comes naturally…..especially for me; I butcher every newcomer’s name ….especially the character-name. I’m still not sure about Jack’s new love ( he’s almost forty years older—-sad, sad state of affairs!!–I don’t get it). Carey? Carol? LOL.
AWESOME NEWS!!!!!!!!!!
Judith Chapman is one of the best actresses out there. Why she has not been cast in more movies and primetime is beyond me. She delivers her lines with charm, wit and trueness. But her acting is not just the words and the emotions. She uses her body as we would with hand gestures, winks, turns, sauntering in and out of a room, etc.
For me that’s a true actor/actress. Right now too many on daytime specifically are being praised for speaking their lines beautifully but there is no emotion in their body language. You see it because while they say the words they are just standing there. They show emotion but don’t move with it. Ms Chapman does. She comes in, points her finger and calls you out as Gloria on Y&R. She dismisses you with a twist of an arm. She encourages you with a wink of the eye.
All those things make the simplest of lines effective. Any actor can scream. Any can cry. Some can preach. Few can make a statement perfectly with body language.
Y&R and the just left Mal are missing out on the amazing talents of people likeChapman who aren’t on contract and move on. While the chance to come back to Y&R because days isSony as well. We saw it with Eileen Davidson.
Days, use this actress to the benefit of your show. Don’t make her caricature. Have a plan that last longer than one story. It will only benefit days and the fans. And PLEASE don’t just make her Greg’s character’s sidekick. Let ms Chapman shine bright!
Diana Colville left Salem thirty years ago. A lot can happen to a person in that time. If Diana Cooper is Diana Colville, I’m all for it. Why would anyone have a problem with John Black having two gay sons? My partner comes from a family of four boys and three of them are gay. Real life is often stranger than fiction.
Two gay sons wouldn’t be all that unusual. Both of them being used as dopey plot points to break up Will & Sonny is the ridiculous part.
Love Judith Chapman she was fantastic as Gloria on Y&R, that is their loss and Days gain, so sorry I will not be seeing her on Y&R anymore.
I read somewhere that she’ll be back eventually. Probably when Jack needs her most.
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.
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