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LISTEN TO THE REPLAY: Soap Nation Live! With Laura Wright, Jason Thompson, Michael Easton, Maurice Benard, Stacy Haiduk & Kim Zimmer
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If you missed Thursday night’s season premiere of Soap Nation Live! with Michael Fairman it was a broadcast full of surprises, fun, and intriguing intel as some of the biggest names in the soap opera genre helped kick-off the series 2018 run of episodes.
Joining Michael in-studio as guest co-host was General Hospital’s Laura Wright (Carly Corinthos). The show began with a guest call-in to surprise Laura, which was revealed to be daytime drama icon, and four-time Daytime Emmy winner, Kim Zimmer (Ex-Reva) of Guiding Light. Laura and Kim worked together on the beloved CBS soap where they played sisters. Kim expressed how much she enjoys checking out General Hospital and the actors performances she has loved watching which included: Max Gail (Mike), and the recently exited Nelle (Chloe Lanier), among others. Michael, Laura, and Kim bantered on the actresses time on GL and more.
Next, GH’s Michael Easton (Finn) joined the show where he discussed the release of his upcoming 20th anniversary edition of his book 18 Straight Whiskeys, working on GH opposite Finola Hughes (Anna) and Jessica Tuck (Cassandra). During his segment, Michael Fairman asked Easton to play a game show segment he prepared for him, which was called, “Michael, Who Said That?” In it, Michael Easton had to guess which one of his many soap characters was he portraying in the scene in the audio clip, and it made for one of the highlights of the night.
Calling in from New York City was Stacy Haiduk, who is about to make her debut this week on the August 21st of Days of our Lives as Susan Banks, replacing Eileen Davidson in the role. Susan is back on the canvas just as John and Marlena’s wedding is about to begin. The question is: Will more of Davidson’s roles be played by Haiduk during her upcoming rum on the show? We chatted with Stacy about working on DAYS, and taking over the one-of-a-kind role of Susan made soap-famous by Emmy winner, Davidson.
Then, The Young and the Restless, Jason Thompson (Billy Abbott) was our special guest in the studio. Jason talked about Billy’s latest stumble back into his gambling addiction, Phyllis’ fling with Nick, and if Billy will be able to resist the seduction attempts by Phyllis’ daughter, Summer on upcoming episodes. Jason fielded several questions from fans who called-in to chat with him during his segment. As well, throughout the broadcast, several listeners were able to get through the busy phone lines to pose a question to our guests.
Michael surprised the listeners with none other than Maurice Benard (Sonny) of General Hospital as the last guest on the show. Maurice was celebrating his 25th anniversary as Sonny on the ABC daytime drama series. With Maurice, some of the funniest moments of the night occurred when Jason and Laura recounted what happened the first time they met him. Maurice also expressed that this past week, he taped some of his most favorite scenes of all-time, and Laura said they have been very emotional. As announced, look for a special Sonny-centric episode in September in honor of Benard’s 25 years as Port Charles’ top mobster.
Finally, one lucky caller won a pair of tickets to the GH Fantasy Event in Atlanta, Georgia, during our game show trivia segment, when he had the correct answers (with an assist from Jason Thompson) to the questions.
Now, click on the play button at the top left of the player at the top of this post, and hear the replay of the Soap Nation Live! Season Premiere with Laura Wright, Kim Zimmer, Michael Easton, Stacy Haiduk, Jason Thompson, and Maurice Benard.
If you want to hear past episodes of the show, click here.
Let us know in the comment section below what was your favorite part of the season premiere.
I hope the Sonny-centric episode shows A LOT of flashbacks from the early 90’s with Brenda, Stone, “Clink-Boom,” etc. When General Hospital was “must-see” and watchable, IMO.
Me too would love watching the flashbacks
Loved the season premiere. Thanks. Michael Easton was so genuine. Loved Kim Zimmer. I used to watch Guiding Light in High School (before the show’s budget cuts). Loved Jason Thompson. I knew all of the answers to the “Sonny” questions! It was fun listening.
Yes, so great to hear Kim Zimmer “Reva” again!
So glad you had Kim Zimmer on! Especially to talk about Guiding Light. They were perfect as sisters Reva and Cassie.
Happy you had Stacy Haiduk on also. Stacy is really killing it as Susan Banks! She fit in as Susan and with the cast from the get go! She has the look, speech and mannerism of Eileen’s Susan, it’s remarkable. She’s brought much more life to Days, along with Ron C.’s great writing and storytelling.
Where can this be seen?
Breaking News
Billy Miller’s Mother Issues Statement On His Passing

Patricia Miller, the mother of the late Billy Miller, has come forward and issued a touching statement on the tragic death of her beloved son at age 43. The statement was shared by Billy’s longtime manager, Marnie Sparer, via social media.
Billy was best-known for his performances as Richie Nowack on All My Children, Billy Abbott of The Young and the Restless and Jason Morgan/Drew Cain on General Hospital, as well as countless primetime roles. Throughout his career, Miller took home three Daytime Emmys for his work.
“I would like to share the following thoughts,” Patricia began. “I want to personally thank the many fans & personal friends for the overwhelming amount of love, prayers & condolences sent to me and my family on the devastating death of my beautiful son BJ – Billy Miller.”

Photo: JPI
Patricia continued with these sentiments, as she wanted to clear up any misinterpretations on this death: “He fought a long hard valiant battle with bipolar depression for years. He did everything he could to control the disease. He loved his family, his friends and his fans but in the end the disease won the fight and he surrendered his life. The other causes of death being told are not true. I wish they were but they just aren’t. We all loved him so much and are desperately trying to deal with our loss. I will have nothing further to say. Thanks for the love and support.”
The soap world as well as Billy’s family, friends, loved ones, and colleagues are in deep mourning for this talented man, who was gone too soon.
Share your thoughts, and send your condolences to Patricia Miller and the rest of Billy’s family, via the comment section below.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org
Breaking News
‘The Talk’, Jennifer Hudson Show & Drew Barrymore Show Postpone Return to Production Due to Strikes

Following the backlash received by Drew Barrymore on her decision to return to production of her talk show amid the writers and actors strike, major behind the scenes changes have been implemented for three daytime television talk shows.
First, Barrymore changed course and announced on Sunday via Instagram, “I have listened to everyone, and I am making the decision to pause the show’s premiere until the strike is over. I have no words to express my deepest apologies to anyone I have hurt and, of course, to our incredible team who works on the show and has made it what it is today. We really tried to find our way forward. And I truly hope for a resolution for the entire industry very soon.”
Next. CBS announced that The Talk, originally scheduled to resume today on Monday, September 18th, will put another pause in production in place. The official statement read: “The Talk is pausing its season premiere scheduled for September 18, CBS said in a statement. We will continue to evaluate plans for a new launch date.” WGA picketers targeted The Talk outside their CBS Radford studios since it announced its imminent return.
The Talk, co-hosted by Akbar Gbajabiamila, Amanda Kloots, Natalie Morales, Jerry O’Connell and Sheryl Underwood, went dark in May due to the writers strike.
Third, The Jennifer Hudson Show has followed the lead of ‘Drew’ and The Talk. According to Deadline, a source close to the production confirmed that after much discussion, and at Hudson’s urging, the show is pausing production and its season two premiere, which was slated for Monday, September 18.
For the remaining daytime talkers, here is the status as of now: Monday, Sherri Shepherd’s talk show Sherri will return. It is not considered a ‘struck show’ covered by the Writers Guild of America.
Meanwhile, The Kelly Clarkson Show which moved from Los Angeles to New York City this summer has yet to announce a season premiere date yet. Finally, The View, which normally has two WGA writers on staff, has been airing during the strikes but withouts its writers.
So, what do you think about the decision of Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Hudson and The Talk to suspend production after they intended to move forward during the writers strike? Comment below.
Breaking News
Billy Miller Remembered by His GH and Y&R Co-Stars As They Share Grief on His Passing

UPDATED: On Sunday, longtime friends and co-stars of actor Billy Miller took to social media to share their remembrances and sorrow on the passing of the three-time Daytime Emmy-winning star.
Miller passed away on Friday, September 15th as first reported and confirmed by Michael Fairman TV. While the official cause of death has not been revealed, it has been related to the press by his management that Billy was suffering from manic depression.
Billy played Jason Morgan/Drew Cain on General Hospital from 2014-2019, and prior to that won 3 Daytime Emmys for his role as Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless from 2008-2014. He started his soap career on All My Children in the role of Richie Novack back in 2007-2008.
Below are just some of the tributes pouring in for Billy:
Eric Braeden: “We lost BILLY MILLER! It saddens me deeply! He was a very gifted actor! Amelia(Victoria) and I took him to dinner one evening while he was in tough negotiations, and I remember telling him to reconsider, because rarely is an actor given a part that describes him almost perfectly, and to not make the mistake I had seen some actors make over my 60’years in the business, that they are indispensable! Once an actor thinks that or is told that by some sycophants, they step onto a slippery road…usually to oblivion! “BILLY BOY” was not only a damn good actor but a nice man! May he rest in peace and meet up with KRISTOFF in the BEYOND, ‘the undiscovered country from whose bourn no Traveller returns “ and tell each other jokes! They were both loved by their colleagues!”

Photo: JPI
Melissa Claire Egan: “My beautiful friend. I love you. I’m so sad. And I’m so sorry.”
Chrishell Stause: “Still processing this. Too many feelings, but you are gone too soon and I’m so happy I got to work with you all those years, but also call you a friend. I hope you are at peace now ”
Jess Walton: “RIP to my precious Billy Miller. You were and ARE much loved by all of us who knew you”
Daniel Goddard: “The world is going to be just that little bit more dull without you in it… you had that “it” factor that lit up every room you were in. Rest In Peace Mate ”

Photo: JPI
Nancy Lee Grahn: “So very sorry to hear this very sad and unexpected news. I would like very much for my beloved General Hospital to have no more of it. #RIPBillyMiller“
Eileen Davidson: “I’m so sad to hear of Billy Miller’s passing. His infectious charm and warmth left lasting impressions on all of us who were lucky enough to have him in our lives. I’m gonna miss that mischievous smile. Love you Billy.”

PhotoL JPI
Jason Thompson” “I’m so sorry and saddened to hear about my friend, Billy Miller. Heartbreaking. He was funny, had a great laugh and very talented. Light and love to his family and friends.”
Brad Bell: “Billy Miller was a great man and a gifted actor. Billy left an indelible mark on The Young and the Restless with his brilliant portrayal of Billy Abbott. He will be sorely missed.”
Stephen Nichols: “Sure gonna miss you, man.”
Finola Hughes: “Billy … far too soon … peace be with you”
Kin Shriner: “Very sad to hear about Billy Miller I so enjoyed his time on @GeneralHospital He was a really good guy and funny and kind to all !RIP Billy”
Jon Lindstrom: “Billy was gifted. He was also good-natured, smart, funny, and always impressed me as a great friend to those close to him. He didn’t blink when I asked him to put on this shirt to help raise up the marginalized artists in our industry. He always seemed to have his heart in the right place and I always laughed when I was around him. #FlightOfAngels. #RIP #BillyMiller #bereft”
Frank Valentini: “I am devastated to hear news of the incredibly talented Billy Miller’s passing. On behalf of the entire (General Hospital) family, our hearts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Photo: JPI
Elizabeth Hendrickson: “Today I should have been sending you a Happy Birthday text BJ. Truth be told i hated calling you BJ but that’s what your closest friends /family called you. I eventually caved. The last couple years we kept in touch through birthdays and monumental moments or when we wanted to vent about “ work”. You gave me a lot of advise. When i understood it always mumbling your words. We always joked about that.
We didn’t text or talk often. But I’m glad the last couple times we did, we had a great banter like we used to. I knew that we always held a special place in each others hearts, no matter what. You were such an amazing friend to your inner circle. They were your family. You would do ANYTHING for them. That’s who really were. As loyal as they came. I’m sad and yes, mad at myself that I wasn’t being a better friend, checking in more often because I was thinking of you recently. I was. I hope you know that we are all here now texting each other, sending pictures and sharing memories of how fucking AWESOME you were. This hole in my heart will never be filled. Goodnight, sweet Billy.”
Scott Clifton: “This is not fair. We deserved so much more of him. Rest in peace, Billy. You’re immortal now.”

Photo: JPI
Coby Ryan McLaughlin (ex-Shiloh, GH): “Man… this sucks. Billy and I played on GH together for nearly a year. He was intense, focused, cool and kind. He knew the hamster wheel that I was about to start spinning on all too well, and always made himself available to help the new guy….. Rest easy, man…
Michael Muhney (ex-Adam, Y&R): “Billy, My fellow Texas brother. You lit up every room with your smile. Your quiet intensity onscreen was second only to your gentle kindness and genuine care in private. We recently shared work on an Apple series, and your encouragements during and after that process, and your kindness over the years are now but a few of the things I’ll hold on to as warm memories of you. What a big heart you had. You were bigger and braver and bolder than this life. You were legend. There is no landing to this final cliffhanger, the wings you’ve spent your lifetime earning have carried you up to that wonderful place in the sky. Happy Birthday Billy Miller.”
The Young and the Restless: “The daytime community mourns the loss of Billy Miller who graced Y&R with his talent for many years as Billy Abbott. Our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.”
Kathleen Gati: “I am beyond sad to hear this tragic news.#BillyMiller was always so kind, professional and a wonderfully talented colleague @GeneralHospital Deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans.”
TK Weaver: “Devastated. Hard to find words. You always gave me such good advice. You were always there for me. You were an amazing person. #BillyMiller I’ll never forget you. Please join me in praying for his family and loved ones.”
Greg Rikaart: Generous, passionate, fun, soulful and brilliant Billy. Can you just imagine the reunion between him and Jeanne? I can. Rest well, dear Billy
Sean Kanan: “Shocked and saddened to hear that Billy Miller is no longer with us. He was a terrific actor and always kind when we would see each other. I pray that his family and friends find comfort and peace during this unimaginably difficult time. #BillyMiller #YR”
Share your remembrances for Billy Miller and his work and performances on Y&R, GH and AMC below. But first, check out Michael Fairman TV’s interview with Billy following his Daytime Emmy win for Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2014.
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