Days Of Our Lives
Peter Reckell Chats On His Return To DAYS, The Series 50th Anniversary & What's In Store For Bo!
Photo Credit: NBC
As Days of our Lives turns 50 years young this Sunday on November 8th (and on Monday’s episode), a huge part of what has made it a success as a classic daytime drama series, has been their spot-on casting decisions, and beloved performers and characters. When you say the name “Bo Brady”, who doesn’t have a reaction, and a feeling of recognition? The anti-hero, the romantic, that heart of gold, that love of family … these qualities were brought to life by Peter Reckell (Bo) in his inspired performances for decades.
After departing the series back in 2012, Peter is back in the saddle at DAYS on-air. And in true Bo fashion, he fights his way back to Salem against all odds to try to reunite with his “Fancy Face”, who is marrying another man who wants to murder her for her money! What will happen when Bo and Hope (Kristian Alfonso) finally have a chance to talk? Will they ever have the opportunity to do so?
On-Air On-Soaps chatted with legendary series star, Peter Reckell in a candid, sincere, and emotional interview about what led him to return to DAYS after making the decision to leave, what viewers can expect when Bo is back in Salem, if fans will see some classic Bo and Hope scenes, and what being part of the history of Days of our Lives has meant to him, as well as his thoughts on the fans support throughout his daytime career. Here now is what Peter shared as we mark the golden anniversary of the long-running NBC soap opera, and as we get set to watch Bo arrive on the scene in Salem.
Everyone is glad you were able to return for the 50th anniversary of Days of our Lives. We all followed your tweets during your time away from the show. There were times you posted that things were trying to be worked out for your return, but they didn’t work out. But this time they did! Was there a time and place in your heart that you wanted to make it work and come back, no matter what? What transpired that you are here now for the big 5-0?
Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins
PETER: When you get disappointed about something you sort of push it away, and store it some place. I really didn’t think about the show much after I left, and after they made the decision to have Bo kind of just disappear with no real good explanation. The audience didn’t deserve that, and I didn’t deserve that, and there was nothing I could do about it. Then, Ken Corday (executive producer, DAYS) called me up. I was really surprised myself at the emotion that came up for me, and to really do something that would help, not only myself, but all the people who put so much passion into not only Bo, but Bo and Hope (Kristian Alfonso) over the 30 years I had been there. So it kind of opened this iron case that I put around my emotions, and they came flooding out. I was crying and laughing, and was so glad that there was a finally an opportunity for the audience to see Bo again!
You are a major part of soap history, and are an icon of Days of our Lives. How was it finally coming home? Would you say it was perhaps … weird, strange, or emotional?
Courtesy/NBC
PETER: It was rather strange, because I expected it to be different, or something. You know, those first scenes for my return the audience sees Bo is lying in the dirt. So there I was lying on the floor of the set, and the crew was working on the lighting. I thought, “Wow, this is like I never left!” A lot of the same crew were still here since the time I left. We were joking and laughing. It did feel like I was riding a bike, and that I got back on it the minute I was in the studio.
Do you feel you missed the day-to-day acting on a daytime drama while you were away?
PETER: Kelly (Moneymaker), my wife, had watched a couple of the episodes that aired recently, and said, “You know, I’m a little pissed. You went back in there and you couldn’t even tell that you left!” (Laughs)
There was a recently aired scene where Bo is locked up, and hallucinating about Hope. I thought the performance was so terrific. I was so caught up in it, and moved by it, and thinking to myself, “There’s Bo! The Bo that I loved!”
Courtesy/NBC
PETER: It was just that way! I jumped into it with both feet, and it all came back to me. All of my concerns, as soon as I walked through the studio door, and as soon as they counted down “five, four, three, two, one”, just melted away. It was like I never left. And even more than that probably, because I had all that emotion pent up all of these years that needed a place to vent. The show did a perfect job of giving me a place to vent. I like big emotions, and that was what I got paid for in the past, and that is what happened.
And that is what everyone loved over the years about your performances as Bo … that even though he was this anti-hero, he had an emotional heart to him. You saw everything in his eyes. So, how was it playing in scenes again with your partner-in -crime Stephen Nichols (Patch), again? I got a kick out of the first scenes we saw them together, where Bo is like, “Hey, what took you so long?” Of course, that exchange occurred while they are both chained to a wall! (Laughs)
PETER: Well, once again I was really surprised, because for the two of us to get thrown together, as you said it was like, “Bam!” Stephen and I just picked up where we left off, and just ran with the ball. I was really, really happy to be able to work with him again, because it has been quite sometime.
Courtesy/NBC
Will we learn what happened to Bo, exactly? He is desperately trying to get back to Salem to save the day and stop Hope from marrying Aiden, but it looks as if he is too late!
PETER: At first, the reason Bo stayed away was to find a cure for his mother, Caroline, but then he was kidnapped. So from that point he had no way to get home to Salem, which is where he has been all of this time. Bo will explain what happened, and where he has been, and the audience has been filled in for the most part. The whole circumstance with Hope is major. She has a lot to deal with, because Bo is coming back, and her wedding to Aiden (Daniel Cosgrove) is happening, and so it’s kind of an explosion for her, and a whole lot of things happen at the same time.
On his attempts to get back to Hope in typical soap fashion, there have been many roadblocks along the way including: a plane crash, finding himself in Kansas, and in iconic Bo fashion finding a motorcycle to ride it back to Salem with Patch in tow! Bo even made contact with his mother Caroline! How was it to work with your on-screen mom, Peggy McCay (Caroline) again?
Courtesy/NBC
PETER: Peggy and I have always had a great relationship, and respect for each other. It’s sort of the same thing … you immediately see the spark in both of our eyes. When Bo does get to Salem, she is one of the first people Bo sees. It’s pretty powerful stuff.
Hope is marrying Aiden … and then all hell is about to break loose! Does Bo have any idea that Aiden is about to kill her?
PETER: Steve has told Bo that Hope is getting ready to marry Aiden. Bo is running like hell to get to Salem to stop her, but both Steve and Bo are unaware that Aiden is dangerous, or anything. That’s the whole soap opera thing: where you feel in your gut something is not right and she is in danger. So there is that, and then there is the connection that Bo and Hope have, so that is not surprising he would feel that something is amiss.
How was it working again with your beloved on-screen romantic partner, Kristian Alfonso. Will fans get to see a lot of Bo and Hope scenes … finally?
Courtesy/NBC
PETER: There are some pretty powerful scenes with Kristian coming up. But they will take a little time to get to, because obviously Hope is going through the wedding and marrying a mad man. With Bo coming back, there is getting the information to her about where he has been at a time that is not the best. It is a perfect daytime story, where there are so many different emotions going on that make this so compelling.
I was looking through classic Bo and Hope footage over the years, culling through the material while I was producing the DAYS 50th anniversary tribute package for the Daytime Emmys back in April. There was just so much good stuff to choose from! It’s hard to believe how long that love story has lasted, and the amazing places and locations you and Kristian went to, and story you got to play. It’s such a part of pop culture, actually.
Photo Credit: Alice Hall/NBC
PETER: I kind of feel the same way. You were sent all of that material, and fans have been putting their favorite scenes on Twitter. I am looking at some of the stuff going, “I don’t remember that!” (Laughs). There was so much material; I couldn’t remember all of it. However, in regards to Bo and Hope, I was most proud of the producers when we first came on the show. They took a big chance putting those characters on the canvas. It was Shelly Curtis (former producer and director, DAYS) who was really behind those characters. To have the guy who didn’t look like any other daytime person come in, and turn them into another Luke (Tony Geary) and Laura (Genie Francis), they took a chance and gave us a lot of material, and it paid off for them. Actually, Al Rabin (Former executive producer and director) called me into his office once. He said to me, “You have worked more than any other daytime actor has worked in these last few years. You have done more shows.” I said, “Oh, OK.” And he goes, “And…. we’re going to work you some more!” (Laughs)
Last week you were in Atlanta, Georgia and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee on the Days of our Lives 50 Years book tour and met so many fans. What was that like being amongst them after several years away?
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
PETER: This past week appearing on the book tour, and the audience coming in and meeting us, and saying how much they appreciate you, really was emotional for me. We were at this church on the Atlanta book tour stop. It was packed with people. They are introducing a couple of the actors, including the incomparable Bill (Doug) and Susan Seaforth Hayes (Julie), and they were all so appreciative. They introduced me and everything stopped. The audience gave me this standing ovation. I was speechless, and had tears coming down my face. It’s such a powerful thing.
Clearly, you are excited and invested in this story, that viewers are about to see play out, but this must feel so different then what was happening on-screen when you decided to leave three years ago. You were not driving story at that time.
PETER: I had been a supporting actor at that time, and that is expected. When I came on to the show, Wayne Northrup (Ex-Roman) and Deidre Hall (Marlena) where the stars, and then after that they became support for the Bo and Hope storyline. That kind of became the natural way things go on daytime. Wayne became support, and then after a couple of years he thought he would leave and go off to become a rancher. I sort of did the same things after 4 or 5 years of being supporting. I thought I would go off and be a dad to my beautiful daughter.
Do you regret your decision to have left the show a few years ago?
PETER: No, not at all.
What do you think your dear friend, the late, great Frances Reid (Alice Horton) would say about the show turning 50?
Courtesy/NBC
PETER: That’s a good one! (Laughs) She would just take it in stride, and would say something goofy. Frances was such a realist, and so down to earth. Frances would probably say, “I don’t know if I have enough air in my lungs to blow out all of those candles.” (Laughs) Frances is just such a character that I love, and miss so much. I think the reason I love her so much is because we had the same work ethic. The show is a priority, and the story we are trying to tell is priority. I don’t care about lights, and I don’t care if someone had a bad night the night before. Get in here to the studio, do your work, and do it to the best of your ability, and if we can stick some humor in there, even better.
Your fans have loved your work, and wished for your on-screen return for so long. They have constantly supported your career and life’s goals, and have loved you and your character, no matter if you were on-screen, or not. What are your thoughts on their unwavering devotion?
Courtesy/PReckellTwitter
PETER: It’s overwhelming to have that kind of support. During the time I left the show I felt the passion of the audience, and not really wanting to let go of that. You don’t have a more powerful audience than a daytime audience. You don’t only see that with Days of our Lives, but the other daytime soaps, as well.
Bo also has some children back in Salem when he returns! Did you get to work with Jason Cook (Shawn-Douglas), who also came back for the 50th run?
PETER: We did work together a little bit, and we had some great scenes. I also got to work with the new Ciara (Vivian Jovanni), and she is really good.
When you saw Vivian for the first time, were you like, “WHAT? This is my daughter? What happened to the little one?” (Laughs)
PETER: Yeah, exactly! Bo is kind of blown away that his daughter is a grown up woman now! (Laughs)
Photo Credit: Paul Smith
How do you feel playing a dad to a grown up woman? That’s what I want to know! (Laughs)
PETER: My younger brother just became a grandfather, so I’m OK!
Was your wife Kelly all for you going back to DAYS?
PETER: Oh, yeah! She was all for it, and behind it. Kelly knew how upset I was when I left the show before. She was very strong in helping me get through this. It was not easy, because of all the emotions I had tied up with Days of our Lives, and Bo Brady. She has been a real rock for me.
When you look back at the material (over decades as Bo), and think of some of the work you are most proud of, or scenes that stick in your mind, what stands out for you?
PETER: I think when people see what’s coming up in the next few weeks, there is just one powerful scene after another, and that is how I felt when I did them. Hopefully, they will come across that way. In the past, I have been very disappointed in some things where you feel great when you performed them, but when you see them on-screen you’re like, “Well, that’s not what I thought it was going to be.” (Laughs) I am not one for watching my own work, but I think now I have to do it because of the Emmys, and trying to figure out what to submit for contention. I think the problem is that you can only submit four minutes for the pre-nomination round, and I think I would need like 40 minutes of material! (Laughs).
In closing, what would you say to Days of our Lives on their incredible milestone … their 50th anniversary?
Courtesy/NBC
PETER: It’s just been an honor to have been part of such an institution, and it surprises me that I have been a part of it for more than half of it … 30 years … it went by so quickly, and its been a pleasure. I have been a very, very lucky man to have an experience like this with Al Rabin and Shelly Curtis, and the whole team of Days of our Lives. If I could put my finger on what separated DAYS fans from the rest of the daytime world … and I have heard this from other actors on other shows … they would go, “Wow, your fans are so passionate.” I just want to thank the fans, for their passion, their time, their input all these years. Now that we have Twitter, it’s so amazing how quickly they respond and to be able to communicate with them. Here’s to 50 years of DAYS!
So, are you thrilled to have Peter back just in time for DAYS 50th on-air? Do you think Bo and Hope will get a chance to talk and even reconcile? Will Bo save Hope from Aiden’s clutches? What did you think of the sentiments Peter shared about his emotional return to the daytime drama series, after exiting a few years back? Share your thoughts on our chat below, and look forward to part two of our interview in the days ahead.
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47th Annual Daytime Emmys Draws Over 3 Million Viewers For CBS Telecast with Return to Network TV
Friday night was a good night for daytime! With its first foray back on to network television since 2011, the Daytime Emmy kudofest, while for the first time held this year virtually, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, scored very well in its timeslot.
The CBS broadcast averaged 3.1 million total viewers and a 0.3 demo rating. That is way up from the last time viewers saw the award show on TV when it was on cable network POP TV back in 2015 with just over 900,000 viewers for its initial broadcast.
According to TV Insider report: The first hour of the Emmys garnered 3.3 million viewers to top the hour by edging out a rerun on ABC”s Shark Tank, and then slipped to second place for the second hour with 2.8 million viewers.
These were strong numbers for Friday night, and hopefully CBS and the other major networks will now continue this, and serve up the Daytime Emmy Awards moving forward.
Courtesy/CBS
The ladies of CBS’s The Talk hosted the event; each virtually from their homes, in an event filled with at-home acceptance speeches and presenters, and clip packages. The show was produced by NATAS and Associated Television International
So, what do you think of the ratings performance of this year’s Daytime Emmys? Comment below.
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Days Of Our Lives
How The Virtual Daytime Emmys Came Together And Will Look and Feel
Friday night, daytime fans, soap fans, and all the hard working people in front of the camera and behind the scenes that make your favorite soap operas come to life; will be awaiting the announcement in 15 categories to see who is the recipients of this year’s 47th annual Daytime Emmys.
The show finally back on network TV and on CBS, and according to Variety the show is going to be pre-taped, but to keep the element of surprise, presenters appearing on the Emmys were asked to tape 5 different envelope openings — and every nominee in the major categories presented will have been asked to tape an acceptance speech.
As for keeping the winners’ identities under wraps, NATAS President and CEO Adam Sharp shared: “We’ve established an internal process so that actual knowledge of the winner is kept as a need-to-know basis on a category-by-category basis. Certainly as we get closer to final delivery of the show, on the week of the 26th, there will be those who start seeing the whole picture come together. But obviously, a big goal of that is keeping that circle small.”
Photo: CBS
Look for more clips and visuals than usual in the virtual Daytime Emmys. According to ATI’s, Al Schwartz who is executive producing the telecast: “Since it’s pre-taped, we can really present, for the viewers’ entertainment, the best possible visuals for each nominee. There’s going to be time to breathe in this show. And also, there’s time to keep the pacing up, so that it doesn’t get monotonous.”
The ladies of The Talk serve as hosts for Daytime’s biggest night, even though everyone will be shown from their homes. It all starts at 8 p. m. EST/7 p. m. CST and tape delayed on the west coast airing at 8 p. m. PST.
So, how do you think the first ever virtual Daytime Emmys will be? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.
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Jimh(leave it to beaver)
November 5, 2015 at 12:51 pm
Hope will remarry Bo…on his deathbed!!!…unless he stays but i feel that is how Bo will be written out if PR leaves for good!!!…Then Hope realizes she has feelings for Rafe just as Rafe and Lani become a couple!!!
blake
November 5, 2015 at 2:17 pm
I can tell by his answers that he will not be on much longer. He only shared some scenes with Shawn D and the new Ciara.
Mo
November 9, 2015 at 7:19 am
I noticed that, but I remembered that Jason is not back for long so hopefully that’s the reason.
blake
November 9, 2015 at 12:28 pm
Jason is not back for long? I thought Shawn D and his wife were back for good.
Mary
November 8, 2015 at 11:21 pm
Peter Reckell is delivering the message that he will not be on DOOL much longer. I just want the writers to give Hope and Bo proper closure.
Ces
November 9, 2015 at 9:46 am
I didnt get that from the interview. Does anyone know for sure how long he is sticking around?
Jimh(leave it to beaver)
November 9, 2015 at 1:42 pm
me too…
Mary
November 9, 2015 at 10:35 pm
@ Ces
Read the comment Peter’s wife made once again. Don’t forget that what we’re seeing on DOOL was actually filmed 6 months ago.
James R. Poissant
November 9, 2015 at 1:28 pm
I thought I had read through here a little while back that Peter is back for 3 months. I know there is a possibility of the show getting him to stay but right now, I am just taking Bo’s return as a short visit. Either way, if he leaves, it will be upsetting again.
Jeanne Hartman
November 11, 2015 at 1:54 am
I didn’t get that Peter was planning a quick exit at all. In fact I simply got elation to be back vibes from him. Y’all need to stop “putting words in his mouth! “
mrsnoahdrake
November 13, 2015 at 5:42 pm
Much as I love Bope, I’d prefer Hope with the original character of Aiden (not the re-write to accommodate Bo’s return), rather than seeing Bo die on screen.
And I have no interest in a Hope and Rafe pairing…you can see it coming of course.
Kill off legacy character of Will, have pregnant Abby held hostage, our beloved Hope strangled and Bo dying…yes, happy 50th anniversary fans!
cc
November 16, 2015 at 8:51 am
given the fact that I haven’t watched days since 2012 I honestly don’t know what that pair was like but I do know I did read some about that character and when i1st saw anything about him I just knew he was a devil in desquise and this was way before I knew bo was coming back so no its not a rewrite for bos return that guy a slime through and through hired by Stefano and it would have came to light anyway
cc
November 16, 2015 at 8:56 am
and yes I am a bo & hope fan one of the best couples on daytime the best couple on days of our lives hands down sorry but the rest are on the boring side imo
Deb
November 20, 2015 at 4:24 pm
I agree . I didn’t like the killing of Will and now Bo. How much stress do the writers think we can take. Stop it please. At least let us have some time to mourn. Just like with EJ. I hated it when they wrote him out.
Scoma60
November 5, 2015 at 1:40 pm
I am so happy Peter Reckell and Stephen Nichols returned. I hadn’t watched DAYS in years but they brought me back. I came back for the reunions of Bo/Hope & Steve/Kayla but have been so happy with the entire show. Out of all the remaining soaps DAYS is delivering pure classic soap. It’s giving us vets, friends,family,montages,and history. I am a happy camper.
Mary
November 8, 2015 at 11:23 pm
Even if Peter Reckell has all but said he is leaving again? I was hoping that Ken Corday could get Peter to agree to stay longer.
Ces
November 9, 2015 at 10:01 am
Me too. I gave up on the show when everyone they brought bavk were let go; patrick, christie snd Matt. It became the Sami hour. I respected Peter’s decision lo leave … Bo had no story! Glad he’s back and Days ratings should tell TBTB that fans want actors like Peter, Stephen and Thaao around!
cc
November 16, 2015 at 9:12 am
amen peter reckell an bo brady is why im even watching days
Ray
November 5, 2015 at 1:46 pm
This is a great story, Michael. It is great having Bo back on DOOL. Bo and Hope are the most iconic couple on the show. I loved reading about Peter getting emotional during his time in Atlanta for the book tour. It proves that you can go home again and the fans would welcome him back anytime.
Patrick
November 8, 2015 at 11:59 pm
“…I loved reading about Peter getting emotional during his time ”
Peter?
fan confuse?
you are loved
Bo is a treasure
how does an actor care about his acting… after so many years….
after being watched for so many years… and his character falls by the wayside
and he or she is; poof…
gone
his return… is magnanimous
his return… is welcome
Bo returns to my heart
you envelope a character ; serial; a family; a story
i’ll be damned and stand solid…
a performance is noteworthy
this feels like a closure
without Bo and Aiden
I don’t know…
that’s where it still leaves me empty
Hope and Rafe?
I don’t think so
serious gape with production in letting Daniel Cosgrove … fired
Mateo
November 5, 2015 at 1:52 pm
I like the man, Peter Reckell but the story of Bo and Hope is nauseating. I hope he reunites and then both of them get carried off by a crazy psycho Moonie….the love story is so retro ..time to move on.
BOPE Fan
November 5, 2015 at 2:18 pm
I have loved watching Peter play Bo over the years. I wish him all the success in whatever he decides to do. I don’t understand if Peter loves portraying the character of Bo, and had a positive experience with his return, why he sounds determined to put the show in the past. I could be wrong that I read the interview as if he wasn’t currently doing scenes. But if he loves the role, it would be lovely to watch Bo and Hope mature as we watched Tom and Alice Horton. If leaving makes Peter unhappy, don’t leave. The fans, at least this fan, would be happy to have Bo and Hope on Days for decades to come.
Patrick
November 9, 2015 at 12:06 am
“…it would be lovely to watch Bo and Hope mature as we watched Tom and Alice Horton ”
beautiful statement
I would welcome this
hearbeat
it took so long… and forever.. that one of grans jewels never found another love… Melissa Reeves… LOL the truth is out their… her acting
so I ached… for Kristian Alfonso… Hope
here comes Daniel Cosgrove’ Aiden
heart relax
love these two
all is at ease
Bo’ back…
I can accept that
heart sealed with closure…
but… if DAYS saw fit to keep these two on for the duration
absolutely
steal my heart
Shelley Warshaw
November 5, 2015 at 2:20 pm
I read this interview with tears in my eyes. I have loved this man for the better part of my life. I missed him everyday that he was gone! When I read that he was finally returning for the Anniversary, I was thrilled, beyond thrilled. He was finally coming home! Then the other stories began to surface. Apparently he was only coming back so they could kill Bo off!!!! I couldn’t believe it! However,. I have read it so many times I now have to believe that it is true. This is not then ending that any of us want!!!!! NO, NO, NO! I am a fan of fifty years and Days of Our Lives in ingrained in my soul. I cannot and will not watch him be killed off, just to end a story line! I am devastated!!!!! The sadness is overwhelming! Instead of being thrilled with watching everything that is happening now, I am only reminded that they are killing him off! He should not have come back, just to die!!! Now, when I see some of the beautiful pictures and collages that used to make me smile and fill my heart with great joyful memories, now, I simply cry. The saddness is ovewhelming!!!! For so many fans like me, we are horrified at what is coming! I certainly get that actors too have personal lives, but they also have a responsibility to the fans who gave them their careers. If he came back to stay then I am beyond thrilled, but I now believe that he came back for a little while just to be killed off as a hero! WE don’t need or want a dead, Hero!!!! I love you Peter, but today and for many days now I am unbelievable saddened. Please, change your mind and stay with us! Don’t let them kill off Bo! You cannot be replaced and we do think of you as family! My heart is breaking for what I believe is coming. I cannot watch you be killed off and that may very well be the end of my time with DAYS, after fifty wonderful years!
BrokenHearted
Mary
November 8, 2015 at 11:25 pm
Ahh…. since DOOL films 6 months in advance I think it’s safe to assume that Peter has left the building once again. Read what his wife said again. She all but gave it away.
Eileen Hargis
November 8, 2015 at 11:29 pm
He has been back home in Nashville for a good while. The end of Bo is coming.
Patrick
November 9, 2015 at 12:13 am
Shelley
BorkenHearted like
DAYS had to bring closure to one of the biggest supercouple in DAYS history
the choice made … OH IT HURTS… yes I want it with Aiden… knowing… what you know.. that Peter Reckell is being laid to rest… yet still giving closure
closure to the biggest deal maker DAYS ever had
Bo and Hope
get past this?
Aiden helped
Hope without love
oh it smarts that Lauren Boles isn’t present
she completed Kristian Alfonso
it’s a serious gape that DAYS is forging ahead … thinking two of the best looking female an male lead should?
Rafe and Hope?
she’s too strong for him
she’s too empowering… and leaves him by the wayside… all the romance of his good looks and her together… will not draw
“…today and for many days now I am unbelievable saddened ”
this is one of those miscalculations that DAYS behind the scenes and production did not circumvent… or read
long live Bo and Hope
Brenda
November 9, 2015 at 10:07 am
If Bo is killed off, I will not continue watching either. I have been a fan for 50 years, from the very 1st episode and Bo and Hope are almost like family to me, as all the Horton’s are. It will just not be fair to the fans to give us what we desire then take it all back again. I will be heartbroken if Bo leaves again. Bo and Hope belong together. I want to see them 20 years from now at the Horton Christmas celebration hanging ornaments on the tree with their grandchildren’s names written on them. And maybe their great grandchildren as well.
Beth
November 5, 2015 at 3:08 pm
You can tell that Stephen Nichols and Peter Reckell have a respect for each other that’s lasted over the years. The fact that they could work together in a lot of the scenes that recently aired and have that ease and brotherly relationship again after all this time is a compliment to both of them. Plus the scenes have been funny. I had the feeling that some of it was ad libbed. Watching Peter and Peggy in Bo and Caroline’s reunion today, I could see exactly what he was saying about working with her again. I’ve missed him and I’ve missed Bope. Most importantly, I’ve missed all the tradition and history that comes with all these vets returning to DOOL, for however long they’re here, and I’m so glad to see how much Peter, Stephen and all the other returnees (Thaao Penghlis, Jason Cook) care about the show. The fact that he got so emotional at a fan event says a lot about him and his fans. I’m loving the show right now and I hope the ratings continue to rise as the weeks go on.
Brian
November 5, 2015 at 3:16 pm
I love Peter and Bo. I am so happy he is back where he belongs,even if it is just to give him a proper exit. The last writing regime totally messed that up!
Kat Hilderbrand
November 5, 2015 at 3:18 pm
I watched Days in the mid ’80’s – early 90’s but quit watching because I liked the full CBS line-up better. Now that half of that was cancelled, I started watching again a few years ago. It was real tough to watch the last year until the last couple of months and now I must say that Days of Our Lives is top notch. I love the characters that are back, the writing, the sets, and the pace of the stories. I adore all the veterans that have come back, but do wish Will and Paige had not been sacrificed in the necktie killer story. However, overall, I have to say that Days is exciting to watch again!
Patrick
November 9, 2015 at 12:17 am
“…overall, I have to say that Days is exciting to watch again! ”
gavel
hear this
the best show now
Sal Corrente
November 8, 2015 at 10:34 pm
I am totally happy that both Peter Reckell and Stephen Nichols are back and honestly would be satisfied if they never left.
terri hamilton
November 8, 2015 at 10:38 pm
I just how he stays and for a very long time show needs him hasn’t been the same without him & Steve them people made this show not the newbies A good soap has to keep its long time actors the others esp 2 of them have all these new people they just don’t fit in S Peter please stay I remember when you & Hope got married I’ve missed you & what you bring to the show which is alot and awesome Welcome back & please stay we need you
Mo
November 9, 2015 at 7:21 am
Great interview.
It is nice to have Bo back, but for how long? I hope he sticks around and it’s not just for the 50th.
So far, not loving the new Ciara or any of the SORASed kids. Get some who can act!
Mbmomof3
November 9, 2015 at 7:29 am
Thanks for another great interview, Mr. Fairman. This site is my source for all things soap. I really appreciate your work.
CONGRATULATIONS TO DAYS OF OUR LIVES! Happy Anniversary!
When they talked about the anniversary today on my NBC affiliate’s morning news show the weatherman commented that he was glad that today was going to be sunny. He said there is no other show where fans get so angry when you break in for weather warnings. lol. Don’t tick off DOOL fans! And don’t interrupt our show.
Dinah
November 9, 2015 at 7:31 am
so glad Peter is back, hope he will stay for long time
Anne Marie O'Keefe
November 9, 2015 at 8:14 am
I wish Peter (Bo) would stay on the show forever get remarried to Hope and live happily together like in the good old days.
Mary
November 9, 2015 at 8:16 am
I knew they were going to kill off Bo. How else would he exit the show. You know he wouldn’t leave Hope. Brain tumor or from the toxic injection ~ right? Well this sucks! I thought having EJ killed off was a very poor decision. Paige, Will… Now Bo. Sorry, but that’s a little too much for us fans to have to deal with in a years time. I agree with Shelley, this is not what we want !!!!!!!!
Carol Smith
November 9, 2015 at 8:47 am
I was so upset when Bo left the show but ecstatic that he is back. I want him to stay, however and I heard it was going to be short term. I hope that is not true! Love my Bo Brady and “Bope” relationship!
Ces
November 9, 2015 at 9:48 am
I love Peter and i love Bo Brady!!! Hope he stays!
I totally understand why he was pissed when he left and after 30 years on the show he has every right to feel slighted for that.
Mary SF
November 9, 2015 at 1:00 pm
Well I am glad they will have another kick at the can to write the character Bo off the canvas. The last time was a joke, and both fans and PR deserved better. I suspect this show’s long term budget couldn’t afford to keep all these vets for very long, so we should enjoy them while we can.
Dee
November 9, 2015 at 1:18 pm
Peter welcome back , I do hope you get to stay as long as you wish to stay. Bo and hope. Iam Happy.
Kate A
November 9, 2015 at 1:50 pm
When did love in the afternoon turn into sick perverted violence in the afternoon?
Timmm
November 9, 2015 at 2:18 pm
Peter can come over to GH and play Dante’s older brother. They look alike!
dylan
November 10, 2015 at 8:23 am
Timmm, your post makes no sense whatsoever! In order for Peter to play Dante’s brother, either Sonny or Olivia would have to be his parent. Peter is older than Lisa LoCicero, and in the same 50ish age range as Maurice Benard. He could play Dante’s father! But not brother.
Timmm
November 10, 2015 at 9:47 am
dylan, I was only pointing out that they look alike. Yes I said come over to GH. Peter is a great actor who may not be signing on long term on DAYS. I know the age difference. Maybe he could be Date’s real father. I dont know I was just throwing it out there! Geez.
Melissa Morgan,
November 9, 2015 at 4:01 pm
I have loved Peter as my hero Bo Brady sense day one. I hope he leaves the door open to return again. I would love to see PR and KA grow old together on the show. I loved how Tom and Alice helped Bope during 1984 and beyond. #Bope Let’s bring back that old magic.
nealsis
November 9, 2015 at 4:14 pm
Bo was the only reason to be that I started watching again. wanted to see him and Hope. also loved the idea of Patch and Bo together.
Patricia. Smeraglia
November 9, 2015 at 4:40 pm
Please stick with story line with the cast all back. I will 70 years old tomorrow and have watch days since day one . I would like a couple on days .is that possible.
Jamie
November 9, 2015 at 5:15 pm
They cannot kill Bo off. They just can’t. He needs to get a good longterm storyline and I think he’s stick around.
Tammie
November 9, 2015 at 7:57 pm
I am so excited for Bo to be back on the show!!! I have to admit that when Peter left the show I stopped watching until recently when I found out he was coming back for the anniversary shows. I have watched DOOL since Bo and Hope started and they kept me watching for all of these years. I do have to say they are the reason I watched the show all these years and without them it’s just not the same. I do hope Peter will stay on the show and ride this ride until it’s over!!
Kathy
November 9, 2015 at 11:29 pm
I have really missed Bo. So glad he is back in Salem. We need him and Steve back together and see what they can get into. Peter please do not leave us again. I love Days, but you and Hope make it better. Thanks for all the joy you have given us.
emily
November 10, 2015 at 6:20 am
I’m a big/huge “Bope” fan. I got hooked by my friend in elementary school ( was 13 yrs old). It was 1983 and was like what’s the deal w/soaps, who cares? Well…I got hooked when Bo kidnapped Hope from marrying Larry Welch. They were on his motorcycle, she in a wedding dress, song “I need a hero” (think that’s the title?) was playing. I was sucked into the adventure and romance of it all:)
I just watched their scenes for Monday’s episode and hooked again. I was like awww…putty watching them. Great scenes Mr. Reckell and Ms. Alfonso (also bought every soap magazine you guys were on).
So I have a answer to my question all these years later. Soaps have been a gift of entertainment to me and hope it goes on. Happy 50th DOOL!!:)
Kaylie15
November 10, 2015 at 6:39 am
The whole return of Bo was poisoned for me because of the retcon of the Hope and Aiden romance and turning Aiden into a bad guy. It make Hope look like a foolish dupe, was disrespectful to Daniel Cosgrove and the whole storyline felt ugly and mean – as most of the show does for me now.
I love Peter Reckell and Bo, but I don’t see why Hope’s only other successful pairing hate to be retconned in such a mean way in order to facilitate a reunion. PR has already left, so it was unnecessary. Why not write a grown up love triangle?
I certainly won’t be excited for Rafe and Hope.
elm51
November 12, 2015 at 6:19 am
wow – i thought i was the only one that felt this way…………………..
Darlene
November 10, 2015 at 7:43 am
Please stay I’ve watched the show from day one, and when u left ,I have to say there wasn’t a week went 8by I didn’t think of you returning , my husband thought I was nuts when I saw you in that cell this time for real and cried like a baby same with patch when he got off the elevator his first day , day back in cried like a baby, you guys are part of our life
K. K.
November 10, 2015 at 7:50 am
I’m a relatively new viewer (as in the last six or seven years), and I like Peter Reckell and Bo but it just seems like the show up-ended itself in a way that was disrespectful to newer viewers. I liked the Hope and Aiden romance, and I was looking forward to Bo’s return as dramatic – but I just feel like I didn’t need to see Aiden thrown under the bus for Bo to return for a short time.
I also didn’t need to see the gay family obliterated in the most violent and disrespectful way possible, but that’s another matter.
Even though I’m not a long term Bo & Hope fan, I get that they are important. I just don’t know if their long time fans are going to want to see Bo die so that Hope and Rafe’s love can live.
Also, if I wanted to watch people being tortured, I’d watch Game of Thrones. That’s not what I want to see on daytime.
Faith
November 10, 2015 at 9:21 am
Bo and Hope are the greatest – they seem to feed off of each other, whether it is fun, emotional, sensual or just every day life. So glad to have them back together (I hope)!
I’m also hoping EJ will be back together with Sami – he is amazing to look at (a bit of eye candy for all us older than the 50 yr old ‘Days’. Best of luck to all the ‘Days’ people, I will still be watching and loving it!
Faith
November 10, 2015 at 9:24 am
Only thing I’m not happy with is how very old all the kids got in a weeks time. Ciara should be about what, 12 or 14 not 20 something, same for Theo. They are wayyy to old now.
Mo
November 10, 2015 at 10:17 am
Ciara was born December 29, 2006, so she would be 8 now.
4ever DAYS
November 10, 2015 at 10:26 am
The characters are now 16.
Gloria
November 10, 2015 at 9:36 am
It is an extreme pleasure to welcome “Bo” back….I continue to hope Peter will reconsider and bless us with a few more years of our beloved Bo Brady….
Brenda Roush
November 10, 2015 at 5:38 pm
I am so happy that you are back on Days and hope that the story line allows you and Hope to be back together.
Jaime
November 10, 2015 at 5:12 pm
Sorry to see the character of Bo leaving but I am grateful for the bromance of Steve and Bo. I am thrilled that Steven Earl Johnson our Patch man is finally back. His story was neglected and mangled by the last regime and we all deserved better. He is amazing to watch.
What I am deeply disappointed in was the Sami return which did a disservice to mourning Will and seemed inappropriately written and executed. There are so many characters now deserving of story its time to move past the Sami hour which ate up too much time leaving others inappropriately neglected.
Teresa Burton Strough
November 10, 2015 at 8:02 pm
So glad to see you and Steve back!!! So exciting!!!!!
Libby
November 11, 2015 at 7:07 am
DAYS needs Peter Reckell.He should be the patriarch of the show. He has a presence and a comfort that makes Days for me. This intro from August has dragged. Now, we finally get to real reasons and reunite with love -Fancy Face.
I hope these rumors of No being killed off dying a hero are red herrings. He belongs as a foundational player. We dont need just inexpensive teen s or out of work soaps from 8 yrs ago. Even those salaries and related screen time add up to what it would be to keep “Bo”
He can commute just like Steve Burton does from Nashville. That is a Sony plane making that route?
I cannot believe they are even wasting time testing Rate with Hope. In my mind, if Peter has to go then Kristian does too. I don’t prefer it but them both on the boat to sail together.
One of – -if not the weakest link coming is Sheloe with Martha Madison, Brandon Beemer and JPL as Philip. I was excited when I thought original She ole with Jason Cook, Kirsten Storm and Jay Kenneth Johnson. But this revisit/revision of MiChelle and comic actor JPL.
I anticipate nothing less than a dull train wreck. And Days thinks they can carry on with that replacement combo.
I am still supportive of Josh Griffith and Beth Milstein. (No comment on Dena H.) But even if DAYS has to restore: Bo and Hope should be the foundation of love and strong commitment on screen or at least send them off on boat together.
Hope and Bo are not tragic. We have enough tragedy flowing through Salem.I don’t know what they do with character of Rare – but salience or love affair with Rare…Will and already has fallen flatter than pancake.
DYLAN
November 19, 2015 at 3:22 am
What or who is Sheloe or She ole?
DYLAN
November 19, 2015 at 3:30 am
You spelled Bo as No, you spelled Rafe as both Rate and Rare, you rambled something about Sheloe and She Ole…a little bit of coherence and lucidity is appreciated in posts. It was NEVER announced that Kirsten Storms was returning, she has been on GH for 10 years. It was announced that John Paul Lavoisier was cast as Phillip, not Jay Kenneth Johnson. For the record, I LOVED JKJ as Phillip during his first go round, when he was nice kid Phillip. but when he came back several years ago, the writing for his character was SO bad, and SO inconsistent, and as a result, he had NO idea how to play the character. I look forward to John Paul…if the writers don’t make him a bad guy for no reason. He is a gifted, charismatic performer with impeccable comedic timing. Let’s have nice guy Phillip back!!
Jan
November 13, 2015 at 3:39 pm
I have watched Days since 1968. I have loved the last months! I realize Bo is supposed to die but I will be so sad if they can’t write in a way for Peter Reckell to come back a little later — much like they did with EJ. The story line has been so much better in the last months.
My favorite memory of Bo and Hope was when Howie was dressed in the Hope’s bride dress and Larry lifted the veil. That was hysterical and I still remember it. I wish they had replayed that scene in the 50th anniversary because I thought it was one of the highlights! Here’s to Bo “rising from the dead” if indeed they write him off soon.
Vicki Thompson
November 13, 2015 at 5:04 pm
I have been enjoying the return of so many of the couples from earlier years. Getting away from the families that made days was the downfall of losing so many devoted fans. Just when Peter Reckell is returning to his character of Bo, you give him possibly of dying. That is so wrong Let Hope and Bo have a happy ever after with their children. Hope that Chase becomes part of their family. If days is to continue mix the young couples with the older family members . So that the core such as the Horton, and Brady’s extended families and even the villains need to come up new opportunities. Don’t like Dr Dan being killed off. Nicole and Dr Dan make a great couple. Would like Nicole too finally have her own baby.
Carolyn Ross
November 14, 2015 at 4:33 pm
I’m STUNNED that you would kill off Will and now Bo. My heart is broken and I’m literally sick to my stomach. I know in reality it’s not real; but it has been for me since I was a little girl in grade school. I remember Julie and Doug being the first “Supercouple” if you will. I wanted to write and beg you NOT to kill off Bo; but I it’s probably been done already. I don’t think I can bear to watch it happen. You have been part of my daily life and I can’t let you go. PLEASE let it be a bad dream!
Carolyn Ross
November 14, 2015 at 4:34 pm
PS. this is the first time I have ever made a comment.
cindy Wyma
November 14, 2015 at 7:45 pm
Peter is the greatest actor Days has ever had. Bo Brady is Salem’s most beloved character of all time. If they have to kill him off, I truly hope they leave it to where he can return one day. I myself, stopped watching very much after he left the show. I don’t think I will continue to watch if they kill him. He’s the one character that has affected me the most. He is such a hero. I love his character and his relationship with Hope. These two are amazing. Their chemistry is off the charts! I was literally sick to my stomach watching Hope with Aiden. Please keep Peter on the show. Him and Hope need to be the next Tom and Alice. Every show needs to have that one couple that everyone loves…that couple on Days is Bo and Hope. My heart is breaking thinking of Bo dying.
Bope4life
November 16, 2015 at 4:31 pm
I have been a Bo and Hope fan from day one, really hate to see Bo go. I would have much rather Bo and hope try to find a cure, take off on the boat again, anything but kill Bo IMO for years Bo and Hope were groomed to be the new Tom and Alice type patriarch characters and should both stay on the show. Really would rather have my couple separated and both alive than to have either of them killed off
cynthia
November 16, 2015 at 11:18 pm
the show will not be quite the same when Bo leaves. I wish he would change his mind and stay.
Sandee Levine
November 17, 2015 at 1:40 pm
I have been watching Days for 46 yrs. I have grown to love some of the characters and learned to hate some of the characters….truthfully my favorites are Hope and Bo….I truly hope the recent blurbs I have read are not true…Although I know the show is taped about 6 months ahead I will be so upset if they write Bo out due to brain tumor….That will be just too heartbreaking…..Bo and Hope together are such an important part of the show.Their continuity holds Salem together…..Sincerely Sandee Levine
Tonya
November 18, 2015 at 4:04 pm
I think Peter should stay as the character Bo Brady, he has been deeply missed and so glad to have him back, really wish he would be staying
l draugelis
November 18, 2015 at 11:16 pm
Please don’t let Bo leave. I will quit looking at DOOL. He should definitely be on the show a lot more than some of the others. I really missed him he is a class act. Please try and get him to stay and not kill him off.
Mary
November 20, 2015 at 12:38 am
All the episodes we are seeing on DOOL now were filmed six months ago. I think Peter (Bo) left the building permanently several months ago. He only agreed to return to DOOL for a few weeks. We will be seeing his last air date soon given the diagnosis Bo just got. After 30 years Peter decided it was time to leave DOOL so he could spend more time with his wife and young daughter. As fans of Peter Reckell (Bo) we should respect his decision. There is good new though, Kristin Alfonso (Hope) has just renewed her contract.
Donna
November 20, 2015 at 3:56 pm
Today’s show was powerful. The water works were full on. Not only me but my husband as well. Amazing job to the cast. I can understand Peter wanting to leave the show and spend time with his family but does he have to die…we love Bo and Hope. Good luck Peter on your future endouvers. God Bless
kelly
November 21, 2015 at 6:19 am
Goodbye Bo Brady! Goodbye Peter Reckell! We will all miss you and wish that you would have agreed to stay on Days longer. I would have been a lot happier if the writers had Bo deciding to leave Salem once again this time to clear his head and get over Hope marrying Aidan. Also leaving to deal with his PTSD as a result of three years of captivity and torture. After another year or so away a recast Bo could return home to Hope and their children.
Natalie
December 19, 2015 at 4:34 pm
HE HAD US AT HELLO ! I started watching Days in 1983, with the birth of the super couple Bo and Hope. Peter Reckell brought so much to the show. Days willl not be the same without him. His character had such a strong and charismatic presence , that you don’t see with many of the other characters. His passion for his work showed in each and every story line. Having Peter back for the 50th anniversary show was bitter sweet. It was great to see him but upsetting that it was only for a very short time.
To answer your question, yes I would most definitely like to see Peter Reckell return . However, I respect his decision to be with his family. Family should always be a priority. He will be truly missed. I could only imagine how hard it was for Peter to say
goodbye to Bo. How does one say goodbye to a character he created and gave life to
for 30 + years. What a difficult feat that will be for him. But I wish him the best always.