Breaking News
Queen Of Soul, Aretha Franklin, Passes Away As Soap Stars & Fans Remember Her Love For Her Soaps: Y&R and B&B
The world continues to mourn the loss of the one and only, Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, who died this past Thursday at age 76. For some time, Aretha had been batting advanced pancreatic cancer. The voice that meant so much to so many, and inspired so many female vocalists of today can never be replaced, and her songs and performances will live on in our hearts forever.
Over the last few days, television news programs have brought to us some heartbreaking, emotional, and uplifting moments from her dear friends: the incomparable Stevie Wonder, who shed tears while speaking of Aretha on the CBS Morning News, and with whom he went to see shortly before she died, as well as Franklin’s longtime friend, Smoky Robinson, who spoke about his relationship with host Robin Roberts on Good Morning America.

Photo: Atlantic Records
This weekend, several tributes are on tap paying tribute to the mighty Franklin including those on TV One, and on OWN, with Oprah Winfrey’s Remembering Aretha Franklin: The Oprah Interview tonight at 8PMEST.
But daytime fans were clued in to the fact that Aretha had a passion for the soaps. She loved The Young and the Restless, and the character of Victor Newman (Eric Braeden). In fact, Aretha was thrilled to be asked to help introduce the Y&R Daytime Drama Series nomination clip package at the Daytime Emmys in 1997. She expressed why she was superfan of the show: “I watch it in the morning. I watch it when I’m at home. I watch it when I’m in concert. I watch it when I’m asleep … I watch it!” And one of the main reasons she loved Y&R, was Victor Newman: “Victor is one of my favorite characters in The Young and the Restless. I love the way he makes his approach to a woman. He’s the all-time player.” The ‘Queen of Soul’ even did her own impersonation of him.

Courtesy/CBS
At the 2005 Daytime Emmys, Aretha presented the Outstanding Drama Series Award alongside Eric Braeden. It was a thrill for her, and also notable for Braeden as he tweeted about his mishap where he accidentenly said, “God Bless, Eric Braeden,” when he meant to say, “God Bless, Bill Bell”.
Upon learning the news of Franklin’s passing, The Bold and the Beautiful’s Eva Basler (VP Communications for Bell-Phillip Productions and The Bold and the Beautiful) recalled on Twitter: “It was my first year at The Bold and the Beautiful & we were at rehearsals in NYC. Aretha Franklin was on stage & looked down to the floor & screamed, “RIDGE! THORNE!” excited to see them in the front row. Later, I had the honor of escorting Susan Flannery & her thru the gifting suite.”

Courtesy/CBSBoldInsider
The official show Twitter feed posted: “The cast & crew of The Bold and the Beautiful are sending prayers & good thoughts up to Aretha Franklin & her family. Some of our cast met The Queen of Soul, who is a huge fan of B&B, at Radio City Music in NYC Pictured here with Susan Flannery. We LOVE you Aretha!”
Throughout the last few days so many soap stars have posted their sadness on the loss of Franklin, and what she meant to their lives and to all of ours.
Now below, watch the two moments of Aretha’s from the Daytime Emmys were she talks her love of Y&R, and presents with Eric Braeden. Followed by the emotional interview with Stevie Wonder on the CBS This Morning and then Smokey Robinson’s remembrances.
Then let us know your thoughts on the passing of Aretha, your favorite song of hers, and how wonderful it was to know that this American treasure was actually a soap opera fan, just like so many of you via the comment section below.
I too was a lifelong fan of this wonderful artist. I have all of her 60s/70s Atlantic catalog CDs, favorites being LADY SOUL and SPIRIT IN THE DARK. Then in the 80s she started wowing us again with classics like FREEWAY OF LOVE and a stunning cover of JUMPING JACK FLASH. Certain people can be imitated but never replaced: Frank Sinatra, John Lennon, Barbra Streisand, Otis Redding, Joni Mitchell, Tony Bennett, and most certainly Aretha Franklin. She’ll be missed. But please, no more vocal tributes by talentless wannabes like Ariana Grande. It’s insulting.
I totally agree!!!
Soaphound…oh, I TOTALLY AGREE with you about that talentless Ariana Grande. I find her to be BEYOND ANNOYING!!!!!
Later.
Doesn’t it make you laugh, jaybird? It’s just another way for these oversized egos to make Aretha’s death “their moment”. Too bad they can’t imitate Aretha’s class, dignity, and originality rather than butchering her songs. Show a little genuine RESPECT. Sorry, couldn’t resist.
Soaphound…EXACTLY!!!!! As far as I’m concerned, Ariana Grande’s brother Frankie (from his season of Big Brother) is just as annoying as his sister Ariana. BEYOND BLECH!!!!!
Later.
This is why my husband and I are into the “Golden Oldies”. Not our generation, I know, Soaphound and Jay…..but today’s music, with the exception of a select few, suc*s.
The 80’s gave birth to notable music……
We do like the 90’s metal, as well.
My faves are, in order: Freddie Mercury, Paul Rodgers, George Michael, Sebastian Bach….of course, Elvis and Aretha…..so many more; Gene Pitney, Del Shannon, Bobby Vee ….do not want to bore you guys, but you get the picture? The Rolling Stones, but not the Beetles too much. Is that weird? Not liking the Beetles much?? My grandmother was crazy about Paul. LOL.
All the Motown artists!!
BYE.
Celia, Rolling Stones AND Freddie Mercury AND Billy Miller…I knew we were kindred spirits. I admire some Beatles but, for some reason, their music depresses me. Always has and I’m not sure why. But the Stones? To me, GIMME SHELTER is the greatest rock record ever made, and some others are not far behind. I also love the singer/songwriter period of the early 70s. Joni Mitchell’s songs literally saved my life after a bad breakup, and I still listen to Carly Simon, Jennifer Warnes, Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt regularly. And they produced great music for several decades. So hard to believe that 90 percent of today’s “legends” will be around in FIVE years. Love the Oldies, too, especially the AMERICAN GRAFFITI soundtrack.
Soaphound…to this day, my ALL-TIME FAVE Rolling Stones songs are Emotional Rescue, Harlem Shuffle and Waiting On A Friend. And…to me, the Stones’ music especially peaked (successfully and all) throughout the 1980’s…TOTALLY!!!!!
Later, Soaphound.
How about “Hang Fire,” Jaybird??? I remember that song oh so well from the summer of what, 1982??? Seemed to be playing at all the parties and teen hangouts I frequented during those halcyon days. And “She’s So Cold,” too, I think was from around the same time??? I was serenaded with that one by a particularly musical beau who had an impressive repertoire of sexy tunes! LOL.
Yeah, Soaphound….our Billy deserves someone who loves him as much as we do…
My Freddie died too young…..I was five when he died. Had I been old enough I would have sought him out, LOL.
Although he was bi, the love of his life was a woman….I read every piece of literature written…
The Stones….”Painted Black”…LOVE IT!!
As my husband, I love Aerosmith, as well.
My husband is from Boston and he worked his way through College, until Medical School, at a health food supermarket there, Bread And Circus— he met Steve Tyler, who frequented the store regularly ( Tyler is from Yonkers, NY, but has lived in Boston forever) and they would chit chat….guy stuff?
There is nothing today which can compare to the ‘oldies’—-I wonder if the 80’s and 90’s music now falls unto the category of “oldies”?
As Jay said, ROCK ON!!
❤️
As someone who remembers Aerosmith from their crazy, hazy days of rock and roll excess, the notion of Steven Tyler shopping in a health food store is a rather amusing one, to say the least! (I know he finally cleaned himself up, but still….Lol.) As for Freddie, bet you cannot wait to see “Bohemian Rhapsody!” Oh, and count me in as another not-so-much Beatles fan…there are a few songs of theirs I really fancy but beyond that, I can take them or leave them, although I always liked Ringo!!! (You’re Sixteen! It Don’t Come Easy….) So where have you been, CeeCeeGirl? Enjoying one last blast of the dwindling days of summer? Hope all is well….
HaHa, Shaybelle….that’s funny…Steve Tyler ( Tallarico) frequenting such a food store does throw one aback….he mainly bought organic, LOL.
As far as Freddie? You bet…can’t wait … I hope Malek does him justice.
I truly and sincerely have never loved ( imagine…postmortem) a celebrity, dead or alive this much. He was just so gripping….everything about him was raving mad ( in a good way, LOL)….I still watch his videos…mesmerizing!! I never tire….each time is brand new!! His moves, his voice, his stage presence was/is immeasurable and unparalleled.
I think Elvis, along with Michael Jackson and Prince had that “je ne sais quoi” intangible and innate quality only a few possess.
Bruno Mars and Justin Timberlake come close.
Of course so many other singers ( talking strictly males here) have the ‘gift’, yet not all have ‘everything’ in one package.
BTW….I’ve been around….here, there and everywhere…since you asked, LOL. I am in and out….so much going on…my sister is about to give birth and she and her husband just bought a new house…..these two can never do one thing at a time….drives me nuts, LOL.
Anyway…Aretha is the female version of the above male singers. Every one of her songs is a hit for me…..great to dance to.
Oh, yeah…..what is going on with GH and the repeats? I tried catching up, but I got old shows….was good to see Dom, though….never thought I’d say this, but I miss him. Take Lulu instead, Ye gods!!
Hmmmm….
Bye, bella.
Celia…myself personally??? I’ve always been a BIG fam of music from the 70’s…and an EVEN BIGGER fan of music from the 1980’s (and the music videos that came with it)…and SOME of the music from the 90’s. Music memories…lol. Celia…you and your husband ROCK ON…TOTALLY!!!!!
Later, my friend.
Right, Jay? I remember you saying how much you love Joan Jett…..I love all that music…
I grew up with both my parents and grandparents listening to the genre of the time…..
My maternal grandparents have a an extensive collection of 45’s and albums…..love listening to them over and over….music has always been alive well in my family.
My husband is the son of Italian immigrants and experienced the same rearing…MUSIC EVERYWHERE– anytime…
I mentioned some of my faves….I forgot THE ANIMALS….” House of the Rising Sun”? Oh, my….what can I say!!!!
We have cookouts almost every weekend, when home.
We set up a makeshift stage and sing our hearts out….my husband is a really good singer…some of his faves are Aerosmith, ELO and the Steve Miller Band.
What’s life without music?
❤️
Celia…quick correction: Fan and not fam. Sorry about that. My bad.
Later, my friend.
R.I.P. Aretha Franklin. Listened to her greatest hits today. ” The moment I wake up/before I put on my make-up”…
RESPECT!
Rest In Peace Queen Of Soul. You will be truly missed. Amen.
R.E.S.P.E.C.T–love dancing to this ‘bestest’ song.
You got it, my lady…all my respect and love.
May your eternal repose be peaceful.
Condolence to the family. You lost a world’s treasure!!
Hey, CeeCeeGirl! Never followed this lady’s music all that much, but I still have to say that her “viewing” featuring her attired in a different snazzy ensemble each day and arriving in a classic LeSalle are truly special touches that even those of us not that into her tunes can “respect!” Aretha is going out in style!
Breaking News
‘Santa Barbara’ Favorites A Martinez and Marcy Walker, ‘Cruz and Eden’ Reunion Chat, On Demand Replay Available for Half Price (Exclusive)
The love was felt around the world during the Sunday, June 7 livestream conversation featuring enduring Santa Barbara Daytime Emmy winners, A Martinez and Marcy Walker who played Cruz Castillo and Eden Capwell on the iconic NBC soap opera. The popular duo reunited for this special one-day only special event honoring their most memorable of daytime roles.
Santa Barbara was globally a hit, and nothing illustrated that more than having attendees from 20 countries and over four continents participate in and watch the live chat moderated by Melissa Braverman, the author of Santa Barbara: The Complete Story due out this fall.
While many were not able to purchase the initial livestream when the ticket costs were revealed to be $100, A Martinez previously clarified the event was to also raise money for Walker, who is currently facing a very serious health situation, now there is a way to catch the replay at half the price.

Courtesy: MBraverman
HOW YOU CAN STILL CATCH A AND MARCY’S LIVESTREAM
Michael Fairman TV can share exclusively that if you missed the chance to see and listen to what A and Marcy had to say, On demand access is available at the event link for a half price at $50 (guests can contribute up to $100 if they so chose). Like the livestream, 100% of On demand sales for the recording will be available for a limited time only, and also go toward Marcy’s medical expenses.
There was plenty of laughter, tears, and reminiscing through the the two and a half hour chat which included: some memorable footage and images from the love story of Cruz and Eden. At one point, Marcy reflected on the enduring impact and affection for Cruz and Eden. “You hope that whatever you do in this life, that you’ll make an impact of some kind,” expressed Walker. “It doesn’t have to necessarily be wrapped up in success or career or anything like that, but I think we all want desperately to feel like our time here blessed someone. To hear that somebody’s life was even a moment better because of what we did is a massive gift.

Photo: NBC
A AND MARCY’S DESIRE TO WORK TOGETHER AGAIN
In a moment that brought joy to those in attendance, A and Marcy both expressed a sincere hope and desire that one day they can work together again. Martinez explained, “There’s more avenues to pursue now than there have ever been. I would say just keep a good thought for it. I’ve been holding it for decades, and I fully intend to do whatever I can to make it happen. We’re engaged in trying to make it happen. And you know, we’ll see. I know we both want to do it.” Marcy simply nodded and responded “Amen.”
Melissa Braverman shared with Michael Fairman TV, her sentiments on hosting the Santa Barbara favorites. “Seeing A and Marcy together again, even virtually, was an absolute gift. It instantly reminded all of us why we fell so hard for Cruz and Eden in the first place. Their undeniable chemistry leaped off the screen and straight back into our hearts, proving that the magic they created all those years ago hasn’t faded one bit. Sharing in equal parts laughter and tears felt like catching up with old friends. It just meant the world to see them side-by-side again and to see how this incredible fandom showed up for Marcy during such an important time for her.”
So, if you attended the livestream chat with A Martinez and Marcy Walker, what did you enjoy hearing about the most? Now the tickets have dropped to watch the replay On Demand, would you want to check it out? Let us know via the comment section below.
Breaking News
‘Days of Our Lives’ Officially Confirms Ryan Quan Returning as Co-Head Writer Beginning in July

There is definitely a shake-up going down at the writing team at Peacock’s Days of Our Lives. Now, the long-running soap opera has confirmed, what has been previously reported, that current General Hospital breakdown writer, Ryan Quan is heading back to his old stomping grounds in Salem. This time as the series co-head writer.
The appointment of Quan comes with the official news that current co-head writer, Paula Cwikly, who was previously rumored to be departing the series, is not. She is staying with the soap opera and transitioning to a consultant role with the show. Now, Quan will join current co-head writer, Jeanne Marie Ford to steer the ship for the characters on the canvas.
On Wednesday, TV Insider, reported the official confirmation and that Quan will return to DAYS next month in July. In a statement to the outlet, executive producer, Ken Corday expressed, ‘We are lucky to have Ryan back in the fold. There are very few people who have such a deep knowledge and understanding of our show’s history. Stay tuned!”

Photo: JPI
THE FUTURE OF DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Since Days of our Lives unusual production schedule tapes ten-months ahead of air, the new creative team’s vision led by Quan and Jeanne Marie Ford are not expected to stream on Peacock until mid-2027.
Days of Our Lives is currently renewed through its 63rd season. The former NBC soap opera which transitioned to Peacock in September of 2022, celebrate its 60th anniversary in November of 2025.
The writing regime change comes after NBCUniversal Media Chairman Matt Strauss revealed that Peacock is expected to turn a profit for the first time in the current quarter, punctuating their investment with the enduring soap opera on its platform.
As for Quan, his knowledge of Salem is tremendous. Ryan joined Days of Our Lives as a writer’s assistant in 2007 after some time over at Passions. He then spent two decades and held every position on the writing team where he previously served as co-head writer from 2016-17 alongside Dena Higley.
Later, when Ron Carlivati took over as head writer for 7 years in 2017, Quan became his right-hand man and main story consultant for his deep knowledge of the history and the legacy of the show. After Carlivati exited the show in 2024, General Hospital hired Quan in 2025.
So, what do you think about DAYS making it official with Ryan Quan as the new co-head writer of the series alongside Jeanne Marie Ford. What do you think about the fact we won’t see the changes on-screen till 2027? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
Breaking News
ABC Announces ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Texas Spin-Off Gets Straight-to-Series Order

In a surprise move, coming a week after ABC unveiled its 2026-2027 fall television schedule, Grey’s Anatomy is getting a new spinoff co-created by the original series’ creator/executive producer Shonda Rhimes.
The new untitled medical drama will be written and executive produced by Rhimes and Grey’s Anatomy showrunner/executive producer Meg Marinis under the Shondaland and 20th Television umbrella. In addition, long-running ‘Grey’s’ star Ellen Pompeo will also serve as an EP of the spinoff.
The upcoming new series will debut midseason in 2027. This will be the first of Grey’s franchise not set in urban city or West Coast locale. According to Deadline, the new “edgy drama is about a team at a rural West Texas medical center — the last chance for care before miles of nowhere.”

Photo: ABC
In a statement, Marinis shared, “I am incredibly excited to expand the Grey’s Anatomy universe. This opportunity will bring new characters and stories to life that will embody the same heart, emotion and connection audiences have loved from Grey’s for more than two decades — all set in my home state of Texas. I am so grateful to Shonda Rhimes for creating this dynamic world and feel so fortunate that I get to be a part of it.”
A NEW GROUP OF DOCTORS IN RURAL TEXAS
The Texas spinoff will feature a a new group of doctors, but there will be some connection to the OG Grey’s Anatomy and possibly to Debbie Allen’s character of Catherine Fox. The amount of episodes in the series order has not yet been determined. Previous Grey’s Anatomy spinoffs were the defunct Station 19 and Private Practice.
Previously, Grey’s Anatomy was renewed for its upcoming 23rd season while the amount of episodes is unclear. The last two seasons the series produced 18 episodes.
It should also be noted, Grey’s Anatomy and the Texas spinoff would likely share a time period, which requires limited-run orders for both with Grey’s premiering in the fall, followed by the spinoff on the midseason programming block.
So, what do you think about a Texas spinoff of Grey’s Anatomy coming in 2027? Who would you like to see from daytime or primetime as some of the featured roles as new doctors? Put on your casting directors hat and let us know via the comment section below.
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