Days Of Our Lives
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DAYS Alison Sweeney on Working with Bryan Dattilo: “28 Years Later, Some Things Never Change. Still Laughing Between Takes and Grateful to Have Such a Talented Supportive Co-Star”
Days Of Our Lives
Kevin Spirtas Talks ‘After Forever’s’ Digital Special ‘Riley’s Unforgettable School Project’, The Loss of Michael Slade, and a Chance to Reprise DAYS Craig Wesley
The coronavirus pandemic has put to the test many content creators on just how they would keep their projects moving forward in ways they never dreamed of. However, out of that situation has come some of the most compelling, unique series, specials, and features currently streaming for viewers. One of which is Riley’s Unforgettable School Project, brought to you by the team from the six-time Daytime Emmy Award-winning series, After Forever.
Former Days of our Lives star, Kevin Spirtas (Ex-Craig Wesley) has starred in and created the first two seasons of what has become the most honored Emmy-awarded LGBTQ-themed drama series on any platform. Along with his ‘After Forever’ writing/producing partner, the late Michael Slade (DAYS, OLTL, Passions, Another World), the two also conceptualized and delivered this latest documentary-style offering now on Amazon Prime Video.
What makes Riley’s Unforgettable School Project so noteworthy is not just how they were able to execute the series based on fictional 11-year-old Riley’s virtual school project and utilize its cast, which includes: Spirtas, Cady Huffman, Jamison Stern, Lenny Wolpe, Erin Cherry, Anita Gillette, Christopher J. Hanke, and Finn Douglas, but that it was made while Slade was succumbing to his battle with cancer, and that this special marks the final script from this talented writer.
Michael Fairman TV spoke with Spirtas about making the special during Covid-19, how the death of Michael Slade has made a lasting impact on his life, what After Forever has personally meant to him, and how an official third season is still in the works, and … if he would consider a return to Salem and Days of our Lives, should they come a-calling. Here’s what Kevin had to say about it all.
Photo: AfterForever
I think the entire story of this digital special has become even more meaningful with Michael Slade’s passing. What was the genesis of the concept? You wanted to continue the telling of the story of After Forever … but we are all in the middle of a pandemic?
KEVIN: Yes and… when we filmed season 2, we had the scripts for season 3 already completed. It was our hope and desire to film them at the same time, back-to-back, so that we would have had all of our cast and crew together, and we could have gotten through it because we’ve always imagined this story being told in a trilogy so to speak – a beginning, middle, and end to Brian (Spirtas) and Jason, (Mitchell Anderson) and Brian’s healing or his steps towards healing through grief. Schedules turned out that they couldn’t really work out for us to hold all the people and hold all of the sets for that amount of time. So, we thought, “We’ve got the scripts for season 3 ready. We’ll come back to it in the following year,” and that was always the intention, and then the pandemic hit. So, it was shut down immediately that we weren’t going to do anything, but we wanted to stay current, and instead of going back in and telling the third installment of After Forever as a Covid-19 story as well, Michael and I sat down and looked at a way of staying relevant and current with a story within COVID, and there was born the idea to do this documentary style story/special about the characters of After Forever told through the lens of the character of Riley, the 11-year-old boy, who is now being homeschooled during the pandemic. He gets an assignment to do a project about the most unforgettable person he has ever met, and he, of course, chooses his best friend, the late Jason Adams, and he enlists all of Jason’s friends and family to join in. Michael actually said, “What if we tell a story about Riley being homeschooled?” And, not only is Riley a technical genius at 11-years-old in the story, but Finn Douglas, who plays Riley, is a technical genius.
And didn’t Finn perform and write the song “Forever There” contained within the special?
KEVIN. Yes. He is this incredible musician. Michael thought, “What would it be like if we asked to have the character of Finn sing a song for Jason?” I said, “Well, what kind of song would we have him sing?” Finn could play anything, I’m sure, because he’s self-taught, he plays by ear – guitar, piano, and drums. Michael said, “What if we ask him to see if he could write a song?” and when we heard this song, we all called each other and we all got on Zoom and went, “Can you believe this song? Can you believe this came out of this 11-year-old?” It’s pretty incredible. Michael did a gorgeous job of weaving the stories in and out and how they just sort of dove-tailed into each other, and then it was framed by Riley opening the project and ending the project. During the Zoom reading we wanted to hear the song out loud. We said to Finn, “Would you want to sing the song?” We all just watched everybody on that Zoom call just fall apart. It was just so beautiful. He’s an amazing talent.
Where is your character within this?
KEVIN: I still stand in the center of the story of Jason because my character, Brian, was married to Jason, and it sort of connects us all, and through Riley’s understanding of how we all connect to Jason, is how we are all sort of spread out throughout the story. Michael jokingly said, “You know, you’re not going to be the star of this special,” and I said, “I don’t think it’s about being the star. It’s really about the storytelling.” The beauty of Riley’s Unforgettable School Project is that we get to see moments of each person’s relationship with Jason, which Riley sets out to say, “Answer these three questions: What did you like most about Jason? What did you like least about Jason? And what’s your favorite memory?” Those three things, cut back and forth is where we all kind of fit in. Nobody has more of a story than the next person, and it’s all telling honest portrayals of how they’re dealing with their loss of their good friend, or their child, or partner.
It’s a very inventive idea during Covid-19 to continue it in a way where you weren’t having to go shoot a full season of episodes.
KEVIN: Well, we couldn’t. I have to say, Allison Vanore, who not only produced this special, but she also stepped up saying, “I’d love to direct this,” and I said, “Yes, please!” She knows the characters. She understands the story because she’s been a part of it for the last two seasons. Allison also has this extraordinary amount of knowledge and expertise with the camera and what was needed for a remote shoot, and to also be able to organize filming 13 people in 2 different countries and 5 different cities… that’s just the technical side of it, but having that in our back pocket, knowing that it was a remote shoot, we had to send the camera, the computer, the ring light, and the microphone to each person’s house. We had to location scout over Zoom. We had to do wardrobe over Zoom. It was all this big puzzle putting it together, and once you look at that board of storytelling and how we were going to do it, it kind of fell into place. I feel blessed that a) we still had Michael with us, at that point, and b) Allison had the know-how to do this. We all feel that at least this pandemic didn’t keep us from doing what we love.
Photo: AfterForever
In terms of the contribution of Michael Slade in this special, was it the construction of the story, and how was he able to work and write this during his illness?
KEVIN: Michael’s contribution to the special was no less than the contribution to season 1 and season 2, and the future of season 3, because the scripts are written. We did everything on Zoom, and we worked around his schedule of treatment. We scheduled 2 people per day, and we spread them out over two weeks. He was very present, and when there would be a day where he would say, “I’m going to be an hour late, let’s just push that call time,” I would ask, “Is this too much right now? We can shelve it; we can stop it.” He’d then say, “Absolutely not, otherwise cancer will win.” He was determined to stay focused and to stay active because it took his mind off of what was happening to him.
Photo: AfterForever
It would be lovely moment if you both were to win a Daytime Emmy for this project.
KEVIN: It’s our last collaboration together as a team, as I said, season 3 has been scripted, and it is on the calendar to get made. We are just waiting for the COVID restrictions to lift a little bit and everyone to get vaccinated. Michael was really hit hard with cancer – to stay healthy was so challenging for him. Sadly, he didn’t make it to see the final edit of the special, and he died four days before we launched, but he had seen the cuts before that and was very approving of it, and had made some decisions, and offered some suggestions, and if God gives him an Emmy for this, it’s not because he died. It’s because it’s great work. It just happens to be that the work that was involved in this particular special was very tricky. It brought up everything, like life itself to have to deal with. Here we are dealing with the loss of a colleague, the loss of a friend, someone’s brother, someone’s son, this is life imitating art, imitating art imitating life. I can’t tell you the darkness that I went through just experiencing the need to stay focused on getting everything edited, and everything ready, and everything aligned for a release of this project that we had put into motion. On top of it, our editor lost his mother just before Michael passed, and Allison’s mom was sick at the time, as well. It took a lot of heavy deep breaths with Michael’s death, and the pandemic, and the loss has, for me, on a personal level, sent me back to really questioning my spiritual muscle and to help remind me that we have to come out of this better than we went into this. I had many dark nights of the soul this last year, and December was probably the darkest. I feel like I’m just kind of coming out of it now with the spring revealing itself.
Photo: AfterForever
It must have been extraordinarily difficult for you to also go to New York during a pandemic and also knowing Michael did not have much time left.
KEVIN: I will say this: I am grateful that I was able to stay in touch with my heart and my instinct and go out to New York to let that be my remote location. Yes, maybe there was some risk involved. I wore my mask; I was Covid-19 negative, and I was determined to be fine. Once I got to New York, I would visit him very protectively with our masks and our gloves, and I’d sit across the room, and then I’d go back to the house I was at. It was a gift that I was able to see him at that time. We had some good talks then about how he was feeling, and I think he was still being optimistic, and then once we got the project in the can there was maybe this psychic letting go. That’s when everything really started to reveal itself as this could be the end. I did go back to see him when he was in hospice. I think I was there the last two days that he really was able to really stay coherent. He would close his eyes and be at peace and quiet for a minute, and he would finish a conversation and sort of close his eyes, not to sleep and not to go away, but I remember watching him going, “Look how peaceful he is,” and then he’d open his eyes and he’d remember that he is in this body that has been given a time limit of life, and he’s on his way out. I’d watch the fear go back in his eyes. At one point, he did say, “I’m so scared,” and I just held his hand, and I said, “I’m scared too. Let’s be scared through this together.” I don’t know how to navigate grief like that. We are all going to be in a position at some point where we are going to be on the other side of the hand holding. The wonderful thing is that we were able to have honest communication about our feelings. I thanked him for everything that he has done for me and how he believed in my talent and creativity and our partnership. I will always take that with me. I waved my finger at him, and I said, “Listen. Now, we wrote a series about a man talking to his deceased husband. You’d better talk to me!” So, we laughed about that.
Photo: AfterForever
You’ve done a lot of things in your career from Broadway to television, and of course, daytime fans know you best as Dr. Craig Wesley on DAYS. How does the entire After Forever project stack up to you within all that you have done?
KEVIN: Former DAYS casting director Fran Bascom, sought me out and offered me this 2-day role on Days of Our Lives, and those 2 days turned into 8 years, and unbeknownst to me at the time, the final 3 months of that contract of those 8 years, Michael Slade was brought in to write. We didn’t cross paths at that point, but years later, when we did cross paths in New York, and then After Forever was born, that was that universal crossing point. I am most proud of the fact that we were able create something fresh, and real, and personal to ourselves that we didn’t have to cater to any “powers that be” that had their vision and their tinkering, that they thought that it could be better in this way or that way. Then for After Forever to gain such recognition, within the film festivals, and the Emmys, and then, just after Michael died, we won the GLAAD award for Special Recognition this year. We don’t even fit into one of their categories! They found a way to acknowledge this project. If another Emmy happens again, that might be another one to put up on the shelf for After Forever that would be beautiful, and I couldn’t have done it without Michael.
For the Daytime Emmys this year, what category have you entered Riley’s Unforgettable School Project?
KEVIN: We are not a series this year, we are a daytime fiction special, and the “Daytime Fiction Special” category is a special class. It’s anything that’s digital in the construct of less than 40 minutes. NATAS (National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences) is being bombarded with so much content, they’re trying to find ways to put categories together.
Photo: JPI
So, now, when we last saw Days of Lives’ Dr. Craig Wesley, where was he? (Laughs)
KEVIN: (Laughs) He was in a flash from the past or something in the DOOL app’s Last Blast Reunion series. I had a fun time working with Patrika Darbo (Nancy) and Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe), once again.
So, if they were to want Craig to come back to DAYS, would you be all for it?
KEVIN: Hell yes!
Photo: JPI
Now, what story would you want to be told involving Craig?
KEVIN: When Craig was first on the canvas in Salem, there was a lot of mustache twirling and a lot of hand wringing. He was always plotting; most of the time with Nancy. It was kind of this high drama, evil villain storyline being told, but when the writers created an opportunity for us to be on after those first three months by bringing on Chloe without a father, there was something real about it. It may have been told under the construct of soap opera storytelling, but there was a reality-based story about, “You have a daughter, and we are just now finding out about it?” Then, finding a cure to her health was another realistic story, and finding out that Craig was her real father. Anything that’s reality based is what I’m getting to. I would welcome any job that brings me back and gives me an opportunity to dive into something real.
Photo: JPI
Would you welcome the opportunity to play a gay character on daytime; in a medium where there are very few represented in storylines?
KEVIN: I’d have no problem with that. Do you know anybody who is starting that? Let’s do it! (Laughs) First of all, there’s nothing to hide anymore. There’s nothing to pretend you’re not anymore. I would think that bringing in a storyline that deals with anything outside the norm that we are used to seeing would be interesting. How many times can you retell a story? How many times can you set the same story up with another couple? So, why not be diverse and have a stylized story being told through the lens of a gay person.
Photo: AfterForever
In closing, so many go through life without acknowledging people who had an impact them. We don’t give pats on the back, often enough, and especially in Hollywood, where people can be very self-involved. You have already paid tribute to Michael Slade in our discussion, but what gift from him is your personal takeaway?
KEVIN: The gift that Michael really gave to me is to remember to be kind to myself and to others, and to acknowledge and salute the person who is in front of us, because we don’t know when we will have, or if we will have, another moment to do that.
Now below, check out the trailer for Riley’s Unforgettable School Project. Then let us know, what do you think of its concept? Kevin’s thoughts on the passing of his collaborator on the project, Michael Slade? And, do you hope DAYS brings back Dr. Craig Wesley? Share your thoughts via the comment section.
Breaking News
REPORT: Dan Feuerriegel is DAYS New EJ DiMera
Could Days of our Lives finally found their new EJ? Rumors have been circulating on the internet for weeks that the character of EJ DiMera may finally have a new face and a new actor portraying and heading back to Salem, especially since Sami (Alison Sweeney) is back on the canvas.
The role was previously played by longtime fan favorite James Scott, who had made it very clear he would never return to Days of our Lives.
Photo: DFeuerriegelIG
Now according to Daytime Confidential and their report from setside sources, the new EJ will actually be played by former Spartacus actor Dan Feuerriegel.
The Australian-born actor has been seen in Starz’ Spartacus franchise in the role of Agron.
According to the report, look for the new EJ to make his debut sometime this summer.
DAYS fans know that in story, EJ was brought back form the dead, from the serum from Dr. Rolf, but then was injured in an explosion and had reunited with Sami and had been recovery in Europe.
So, if this reports turns out to be true, what do you think of the new EJ? Comment below.
Cailtin Reilly to Appear in General Hospital Tribute Episode to Her Father John Reilly
Former ‘Bachelor’ Colton Underwood Comes Out as Gay
Former Y&R Star Jason Canela Lands Recurring Role on ‘The Rookie’
DAYS Alison Sweeney on Working with Bryan Dattilo: “28 Years Later, Some Things Never Change. Still Laughing Between Takes and Grateful to Have Such a Talented Supportive Co-Star”
‘The Talk’ Returns as Sheryl Underwood Shares the ‘Trauma’ She Feels Over Incident That Led to Sharon Osbourne’s Exit
Kevin Spirtas Talks ‘After Forever’s’ Digital Special ‘Riley’s Unforgettable School Project’, The Loss of Michael Slade, and a Chance to Reprise DAYS Craig Wesley
Lynn Herring Celebrates 35th Anniversary of Her General Hospital Debut; and ‘We Love Lucy’
All My Children Alum Cornelius Smith Jr. Joins the Cast of Apple TV+ Limited Series, ‘Five Days At Memorial’
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Don Diamont & Scott Clifton Shine In Father/Son Scenes; As Bill Watches Liam’s Meltdown Over the Accident that Killed Vinny
GENERAL HOSPITAL: “I’m Alexis Davis, and I’m a Fighter, and an Idealist, and an Advocate”; Nancy Lee Grahn Gives Masterful Performance In Special Episode
Y&R’s Sharon Case Shares Bittersweet Goodbye to Alyvia Alyn Lind: “We Wish You Well with Your New Endeavors & Of Course We Will Love & Miss You Always”
GH’s Kin Shriner Talks on Franco’s Demise, Scott’s Budding Romance with Obrecht, and His Enduring On-Screen Partnership with Genie Francis
Cameron Mathison Joins General Hospital
‘Soap Con Live’ Event to Feature Panels from The Doctors, ATWT, OLTL, GH, Plus Virtual Meet & Greets
GENERAL HOSPITAL: “I’m Alexis Davis, and I’m a Fighter, and an Idealist, and an Advocate”; Nancy Lee Grahn Gives Masterful Performance In Special Episode
Y&R’s Melissa Claire Egan Reveals Pregnancy News; She is Expecting a Baby Boy!
Lynn Herring Celebrates 35th Anniversary of Her General Hospital Debut; and ‘We Love Lucy’
Joe LoCicero on His B&B Demise: “I Do Believe I’m Done Filming But it is a Soap Opera So Anything is Possible”
The Stars of Y&R and B&B Ask the Questions & Appear on Virtual Game Show ‘Soap Opera Know-It-All’
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Bill and Liam’s Car Ride Has Life-Altering Consequences
Former ‘Bachelor’ Colton Underwood Comes Out as Gay
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Don Diamont & Scott Clifton Shine In Father/Son Scenes; As Bill Watches Liam’s Meltdown Over the Accident that Killed Vinny
GH’s Kin Shriner Talks on Franco’s Demise, Scott’s Budding Romance with Obrecht, and His Enduring On-Screen Partnership with Genie Francis
The Stars of Y&R and B&B Ask the Questions & Appear on Virtual Game Show ‘Soap Opera Know-It-All’
Y&R’s Eileen Davidson Takes Supporting Actress Honors for ‘7 Days to Vegas’ in Garden State Film Festival Awards
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Nick and Sharon Band Together to Help Faith in Crisis Reminiscent of Cassie Tragedy
Y&R’s Newman Kids Talk 48th Anniversary, Storylines, Camaraderie, and Take the Trivia Challenge
B&B Celebrates its 34th Anniversary Today
‘Days of our Lives’ Writing Team Bests ‘General Hospital’ for Daytime Drama WGA Award
TONIGHT: Lauralee Bell in V.C. Andrews’ Lifetime Movie ‘Pearl in the Mist’
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NewsApril 7, 2021Y&R’s Sharon Case Shares Bittersweet Goodbye to Alyvia Alyn Lind: “We Wish You Well with Your New Endeavors & Of Course We Will Love & Miss You Always”
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General HospitalApril 8, 2021GH’s Kin Shriner Talks on Franco’s Demise, Scott’s Budding Romance with Obrecht, and His Enduring On-Screen Partnership with Genie Francis
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Breaking NewsApril 5, 2021Cameron Mathison Joins General Hospital
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As The World TurnsApril 8, 2021‘Soap Con Live’ Event to Feature Panels from The Doctors, ATWT, OLTL, GH, Plus Virtual Meet & Greets
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General HospitalApril 8, 2021GENERAL HOSPITAL: “I’m Alexis Davis, and I’m a Fighter, and an Idealist, and an Advocate”; Nancy Lee Grahn Gives Masterful Performance In Special Episode
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NewsApril 6, 2021Y&R’s Melissa Claire Egan Reveals Pregnancy News; She is Expecting a Baby Boy!
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General HospitalApril 11, 2021Lynn Herring Celebrates 35th Anniversary of Her General Hospital Debut; and ‘We Love Lucy’
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NewsApril 6, 2021Joe LoCicero on His B&B Demise: “I Do Believe I’m Done Filming But it is a Soap Opera So Anything is Possible”
Days is tops for me… then GH! Not a fan of the CBS shows…. My father-in-law watches them regularly… they bore me!
Days is the most improved soap…GH is a far second…Y&R is just ok…B&B i just cant get involved in it!!!!…I miss Edge Of Night…OLTL… As The World Turns the most…i miss all my soaps!!!!!!!!!!…I watch Retro’s The Doctors and i have watched Strange Paradise and Dark Shadows a zillion times…wish all soaps were never wiped!!!!!!!!!
Cheers, Jimmy!!
Just had to comment that I was in grade school when Dark Shadows was on tv! I just followed the u tube of the 50th anniversary reunion, bought the 50th anniversary DVD collector’s edition and have been reading episode summaries of nearly 1200 shows! It was supposed to be a modern gothic version of Jane Eyre and then went into vampires and such for better ratings. However, my point is: the show had incredibly clever plot lines, far better than what daytime offers today.
I have the four music albums, books-one autographed by Dan Curtis and another by Kathy Scott…had several dolls made of the characters and i also got the ring and music box!!!
Had the Pleasure of having Grayson Hall( Julia ) as Theater Teacher in later 1970s at Pace University NYC…great lady…a hoot some of my best menories from that time.
Vinee– that had to be a great opportunity! She was one of my favorite characters. As I dig into the 50th anniversary CD, I’m so enjoying her scenes.
Forgot Grayson introduced me to Elizabeth Hubbard (Althea on Doctors, And Lucinda on ATWT) Also had many wonderful conversaions with another verey nice Lady.
Ron ,She was as nice as she was talented.
I was a kid that ran home from school to see Dark Shadows too. I wish I could buy the complete DVD set, but I am buying them by individual volumes at this time. I know they have tried before with a new cast, but I wish they could bring back Dark Shadows to television again. Penny Dreadful seemed to work and was very popular.
The pilot from 2004 was kind of well done but miscast…cast changes and redoing the pilot might have got it an airing!!!!
Jim watching The Doctors on Retro TV too. And right now the episodes are 1975. Within 2-3 months-I’m thinking based on two weeks per month in a week- Margaret de Priest takes over from the Dynasty writers- the Pollocks- and shortly thereafter begins Douglas Marland’s two year headwriter run 75-77 #EXCITED!
I did like the Dancy family during Marlands stint but the show sure goes downward after 79!
I’m STILL trying to get my head around those Saturday and Sunday Doctor’s airings. Not sure why they’re running unless it’s showing how they got to current storylines?
DAYS is on fire right now! But I can’t help but worry about what the future will look like. When Ron C took over writing at GH, the show was must-see TV for basically the first year. After that, things slowly started to go downhill. There were moments with great storylines, but then there were others like the Denise DeMuccio debacle, most of the Fluke story, Tony Geary’s exit and Silas’ murder that were train wrecks. So I’m cautiously optimistic about what DAYS’ future holds, and I hope by this time next year the show hasn’t devolved into the mess… Read more »
The difference I’m guessing is that Ron has a great support system of veteran writers such as Sheri Anderson, Lorraine Broderick and Ryan Quan, to keep his writing balanced (so for every wild return, there’s a good socially relevant police story) as well as producers who are dedicated to the history of the show and the development of the younger gen legacy as well. Also, GH is so infested with politics from the higher levels, it’s ridiculous and is why every writer has had little control of the show for a long time.
whew! thank you @JMER ; @Jimmy Jean , Shelley, Frank have been “in charge” @GH in their 3rd year. OK – ease on up – this twin story is a – remarkable – feat ?!?! AT LONG LAST GH , no one can not say… has languished… throw in DAYS – it’s OK I’ve commented that GH seems to have smarted much longer than S/J/F tenure such that.. I cannot think of ONE BADj THING that truly happened during RC RUN. FLUKE – I never cared for the actor and his privileges any way. so now.. we are in to… Read more »
Ron Carlivati : Bio @Headwriting OLTL – The first episode with Carlivati as Head Writer aired September 11, 2007. GH – The first episode with Carlivati as head writer aired February 21, 2012. STAT – On July 24, 2015, ABC announced their decision to replace Carlivati as head-writer of General Hospital with Shelly Altman and Jean Passanante.[ DAYS – On January 23, 2017, Carlivati was announced as the newly-appointed head writer for Days of Our Lives, replacing former co-head writers Dena Higley and Ryan Quan. Per reports, this change is said to be “effective immediately”.[5][6] Carlivati’s first credit as head… Read more »
Plus since Carlivati himself has admitted that he didn’t know Days’s history when he became head writer he might rely on Sheri Anderson and Ryan Quan who are his story consultants to help him because they both worked at Days before.Plus some actors at Days have said Carlivati have talked to them about their characters and asked for their advice.Plus when he was at OLTL and GH Carlivati may have had to let ABC dictate some of the things he did because the network owned/owns those 2 soap.At Days Carlivati may have more freedom since NBC doesn’t own it.
Well to be fair maybe Carlivati got burnt out at GH because he went from been head writer at OLTL to head writer at GH without really taking a break.So maybe getting fired from GH and taking a year and a half so break before becoming head writer at Days was beneficial because it may have given Carlivati a chance to recharge his batteries.Also it might be interesting at OLTL in 2007 Carlivati replaced Dena Higley as head writer and now at Days he did the same thing
love days dont watch any other soap days is most improved to me
Days
Fantastic! I’ve been rooting for DOOL for years to comeback and Ron did it!
DAYS is far and away the best of the four soaps right now — varied storylines, romance, humor, and drama. Ron is really making this the show to beat right now. Y&R is quickly losing me with Mal Young’s one day equals one episode approach. It is ridiculous and makes all the characters look stupid (like Sharon would really see Scott in Paul’s office with a blood covered shirt and go home to wait for his call the next day or Jack and Ashley would travel to Florida to find Dina and then wait a day to confront her and… Read more »
Just when Y and R spent the better of a year returning to its original look and pace, this new direction is reinventing it again… sadly, I fast forward through much of it. Back are all the hissy fits and tantrums, the faux heightened suspense and another realignment of casting pairs of actors for stories. In the past month only 2 single scenes have had an impact on me: a)Mariah’s confession to Sharon about her interest in Tessa and b)Dina’s admission to Jack that one day she won’t remember him but she wanted him to know how much she loves… Read more »
Alan and Ron, I agree 100% on what you both are saying about Y&R…it’s so sad what this show has become since Mal Young has taken over as the head writer and the way he is doing the show…It’s no longer Y&R and the days are number of when I will quit watching it completely…The show no longer feels like Y&R and there is no reason to keep watching for Mal, CBS/SONY is not listening and they are wondering why the number of viewers are dwindling. I asked on many occasions to bring Y&R back to it’s glory days of… Read more »
ITA– characters on Y&R stopped having conversations and now just have arguments — forcing me to use my mute button because the dialogue is grating like nails on a chalkboard— and characters come across as selfish whining brats, no one is likable in this mode–
I agree that too many times lately I am glad I have it DVRd so I can FF the scenes. Oh Mrs.C would be so disappointed.
One of the problems with Y&R is they got two big names to replace Billy and Phyllis and it just is not working out! They also should have scratched bringing back Scott and brought back Fenn. That kid was great in “Under the Dome!”
GH: People love Genie Francis but there just is noting for her to do. Her and Kevin are great together but there is nothing exciting, soap wise, to tell a story.
Good writers can always find something for a beloved character with a rich history to do. It’s kind of their job…
I agree about G.H.; as I’ve stated before, give the other characters a backbone. These writers allow Sonny , Carly , and Jason to run rough shod over everyone. It seem as if not anyone will stand up to the big three. Even Franco is weak ; Julian and Ava were always weak mobsters to me. However, Drew , I believe is not going to allow them to bull doze him. Please writers , stop writing tough for your favorites ; do it for the other tough folks , too . Stop allowing Franco, Julian , Valentin , and Ava… Read more »
Hopefully, Drew will shore up the Quartermaines and bring them back to compare & contrast with the Corinthos clan. Imagine Drew & Ned at the center of the ELQ empire, bringing Kim Nero (shades of the young Monica Q, doctor & all) & Oscar into the Q fold. He’s a real American hero and it’s about time an actual veteran with a successful civilian life be featured on GH as a central character, don’t you think? Would be a nice change from mobsters. Drew can push Michael out as CEO for all I care. Michael’s rationalization of Sonny’s criminal activities… Read more »
Days of Our Lives is the best in my book. It has really turned around since Ron Carlivati joined the team. And the return of Will Horton I am sure is driving that resurgence. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK Cast and Crew!!!
I’m glad Days Of Our Lives is finally becoming more interesting. Lots of twists and turns. They are utilizing many of the cast members now and using the older and senior cast members too. I am enjoying the “Will” storyline and can’t wait for Louise Sorel as “Vivian” to make her appearance. The one thing that gets me is they keep using the same blue walls set as Marlena’s office, Kayla’s office and Eric’s former office and the judge’s chambers and just recently it was a visiting waiting room. It also was used as the room Abigail escaped out the… Read more »
What makes you think there is money for these sets?
well, with Matt Lauer gone and hopefully Megyn on her way out…they can take their combined $50 million a year contracts and put that money towards new Days sets and maybe tape closer to air date, even though that will never happen….but loving Days right now….wish they could keep Ben!!!!!! Love love love Eve with the Kiriaki’s men……Cassie D is so good at playing a snarky bitch character!!!!!
Days has always been the best in my opinion. Do not understand the popularity of Y&R. For a few months it was positively dreadful – it’s slightly better now but…..
CBS is 100 behind Y&R and they have a big budget and legendary status that carries them.
You go, T !!!!…….I love Days, but Y&R is my passion…( well, other than my husband, that is)….LOL.
I’m enjoying Young and the Restless more.
I watch Days when I am home. Retired, home most days. Written so catching up is easy
Don’t get GH or others. I just don’t like characters. Never,will.
I am a Days fan no matter what. But these past months have super excellent and teally focused familiar characters and issues. I’m loving it. The stories and acting is superb always but the new writers are making fantastic use of the actors/characters i love. Real complicated people to love
Looks like a game; which gets the most numbers.
Ratings mean little to me, I watch what I like and ratings have nothing to do with it.
ratings are like a rollercoaster.. they go up and down but still are relatively the same old numbers taking turns.
It has nothing to do with New viewers it’s all about the Nielsen families when they tune in and out…. and still the same people deciding when they watch or not.
Nothing new in numbers, same people of Nielsen watching on and off.
I absolutely love Days of Our Lives. It’s the only soap opera I watch. I am happy to be able to watch it on the NBC app in the evening the same day it airs.
Days!!! That’s my #1 show, keep up the good work, storyline Ron C ,I’m giving them the 10 on my list Days always #1
Honestly, being objective here, how can anyone possibly spin these numbers as good for Days? Yes, it’s up a bit week-to-week which is better than the alternative, but it’s not going to drop every single week, folks!! This merely illustrates how pitiful the ratings were in prior weeks and months, and still are. I mean, it had less than 2.2 million viewers on 3 of 5 days in a week during a sweeps month! It’s still down from last year and is still in 4th place in most key categories! Has the bar really been set this low? It’s hard… Read more »
I agree with you….I’ve watched the show since the 70’s I can’t remember a time that the writing was so one dimensional DAYS finally got off the one note bandwagon last week by adding the drama of Theo’s shooting. I can’t say that the story involving Will feels like anything of great interest which deeply engages me with the characters. Which was a big part of why DAYS was so successful in the 80’s I doubt Ron can keep this going without adding a deeper layer that ties into the vets…. By that I mean Mary Beth, Stephen, Deidre, Drake,… Read more »
I don’t think Ron destroyed G.H. There were other writers there. How do you know that the network didn’t put its two cents into the pot?
Plus Frank Valentini is the executive producer at GH and so he may have dictated how certain stories went while Carlivati was head writer there.Plus i know some people have accused Carlivati of been the reason One Life To Live was cancelled but Valentini was executive producer at OLTL when it was cancelled.Also i’m wondering that between executive producer and head writer which position has the most power in how a soap is run.
To say he destroyed GH is pure hyperbole. Did he throw up some stink bomb storylines in the final months — yes. It was time for him to move on. The network didn’t force him to switch the outcome of Luke’s alter from Bill Eckert to Luke himself. They didn’t dictate he write a ridiculous fake twin sister for Ava. Nor, did they encourage him in his petty treatment of Sean Kanan. As others have said, hopefully the time away refreshed his writing juices. The majority of his OLTL time and first years at GH were great daytime television. Here’s… Read more »
Yes, DAYS is the most improved show and Ron is doing a great job. GH is second, even though I am disappointed in the easy route they took making Steve Burton Jason. Unless, the good doctor was lying? Y&R, I have to say I enjoyed more when Sally Sussman was the head writer. Hoping for more intriguing storylines soon.
I’m enjoying Young and the Restless better, now.
Watched days for thirty years.hope it’s on anotherthirty
Days is my untimite favorite it has really had a lot of good plots to it lately so far days is the number one show that’s the only show I watch
Congrats to RC he took a lot of grief best wishes to him and I hope he saves days! I have a sister who has totally lost it to Alzheimer’s brilliant speech etc teacher. All you posters please hold your dear ones close to you best to all of you next year!!!
Absolutely love Days. Will is back and the scenes with Ben is some of the best acting on Day time. Bold and Beautiful has taken a turn for the worse starting with the return of Sheila..The constant Brooke love triangles has lost viewers interest. Then Sally is an Amazing actor and they have put her on the back burner while Steffy makes the viewers suffer through her poor.acting and Botox. Young and the Restless has also lost viewers attention. Same rotating door with Nikki and Victor. Nick will find the truth about his so called son and leave Chelsea. Then… Read more »
Ron Carlivati scripts started AIRING June 19, 2017
4. DAYS 2,019,000 (-108,000/-55,000) = June 12th – 16th, 2017
4. DAYS 2,257,000 (+53,000/-6,000) = Nov 13th – 17th, 2017
4 1/2 months , since Ron Carlivati took the reigns
I – REALLY – want to see the last two weeks of November 2017.
without too much fan fare – congrats to @DAYS for proof of a good show going on NOW
In viewership in DAYTIME that’s an awful lot of eyes in a mere five months. Smart post Patrick. Would expect nothing less from you.
I”M off by a month – Thank you @DAV. can we just dazzle the numbers and say an increase in viewership by a – listen now –
ROLL IT
Quarter of a Million – new eyes
LOL
i’m giddy excited beside myself happy cheering for the cast and production
Not only has the writing on DOOL improved, but also the directing and acting. It’s so refreshing to see”believable” human emotions and reactions. The breakup scenes between Rafe and Hope were incredible. Kate’s confession to Andre was riveting. Abby and JJ at the scene of the shooting when she went to comfort him moved me to tears. The actors must be thrilled to finally have some real situations to dig into. Kudos to the cast and writing team!
4. DAYS 1,975,000 (-110,000/-185,000) = July 17th-21st, 2017
4. DAYS 2,257,000 (+53,000/-6,000) = Nov 13th – 17th, 2017
@Dav – (sorry) this is the correct numbers… when I said I was off by a month
Numbers are even better
On bold and the beautiful leave Eric and Quinn out it dirty dealing let them become the strong pillar . Somebody on that show needs stability.
Totally agree. There needs to be a solid foundation on all of these shows. In the years gone by : Chris and Nancy Hughes – As the World Turns ; Days of Our Lives- Tom and Alice Horton . None of the shows today have the family unit with someone to serve as an example for the children and grand children. All spouses don’t commit adultery and if they do , not all of them split up or divorce. People still try to resolve their issues sensibly.
GH #2 in the women categories, B&B #2 in total viewers. Does B&B have a lot of male viewers? Of people above 54? Seems odd…
Yay! Glad to see Days’ ratings improves. The show has been much better lately. I look forward to watching it.
Love Days!!!
Y&R is good because of Marla Adams. Her story and her acting are superb! I like Victor and I like him pitting Vicki against Abby. Thats the good news. Billy, Phliss, the Winters kids, and Tessa are horrible! Off the charts horrible, SCOTT!
GH is shinning bright! Steve;s story has lit up the show like a star atop a Christmas tree! Credit also goes to the writing. The two Jasons reveal was excellent! The bad news. ANYONE attached to MAN LANDERS and Nelle! The really bad news, FRANCO!
AGREED!!! Yeah, Timmmy…love Marla/Dina….best acting of anyone on Y&R…..the Jack/Nikki ( whose nose is still perpetually up there on cloud nine) is soooo old. Sickens me. I love Melody so much, but Nikki is acting like a spoiled brat….lords over everyone…passes judment, throws stones and then hides her hand. She says she identifyes with any girl whose life denied her of ‘the good things in life”…..does that include morality? Dina is keeping this soap on its toes. I don’t like relishing anyone’s life’s travails and illnesses, but she is soooo good. The entire package…and humorous, to boot. My heart does… Read more »
Nikki forgets what side of the tracks her train use to travel! Her high and mighty attitude is especially confusing since she used to live/ eventually again will live with DICTOR!
I think Abby has grown up. She was a wild party girl and now she is a women. Snobby at times but a women. She has a terrible streak of lovers, though! That might explain her bitchiness!
Hey, Y, Yeah…Nikki is an enigma….I will never understand her persona. She can be so loving; so humble and compassionate….then, she will turn on a dime. Dictor???? Uuuuu…LOL; I love it—-perfect depiction….it fits!! Well, Abby may have grown up; but, she still does not recognize her feelings; nor the fact that she needs to tamp her impulsiveness. She has a thing for Scott, unfortunately….and, so does he. He should know better. I dislike the way he is using Sharon…..as a distraction from his real feelings for Abby? That is not a man, in my book!! He is aware, within himself,… Read more »
I despised Stitch and now I have to deal with Scotty boy!
Don’t worry I think Scott is about to hit the road the 180 on th character since Mal Young took over is upsetting but as much as the damage that has been done to the characters Nick & Sharon they are the end game for me put them back together anybody who has watched this show knows they deeply loved each other let’s put them back together!!!
Hi, Timmmy,
You know I meant ‘T’, not ‘Y’, on my last post, right?….. of course you did, LOL.
Funny thing, I had forgotten all about Stitch…..it’s like he’s never even been on—poof!!!! Gone from the recesses of my brain….
The tension is getting pretty thick between Scott and Abby….about to break!!
Now, I ask….why would TPTB put Faith, smack in the middle of this? She’s just a little girl. Hasn’t she gone through enough men and women waltzing in and out of her parents’ life? Poor kid!!
Firstly:,…So proud of Days, so far.
Secondly:….Patrick, where art thou? I, soooo, wanted to get into the Sami/Rafe ‘reunion’ with you…..LOL…
We both wished Hope out of Rafe’s life…..I lamented the fact ad nauseam, LOL.
And, as soon as Sami’s return was announced, I just knew hers and Rafe’s world would explode ….fireworks galore!! Yeeeesssss!!!!
Would be something if Ciera and Rafe have a go and she becomes pregnant by Rafe making Hope a gramma to their child while she secretly still loves him…i have an on and off feeling for Hope and Rafe…sometimes they do work well together but most times they dont…however, will Sami and Rafe last-dont know how long Sami will be around…and if EJ is alive Sami would dump poor Rafe in a New York minute and run off looking for EJ!!!!
Rafe’alicious N’ Grans Jewel I was so surprised to see “the breakup” in the DAYS promo… WITH the hotted out… tryst , of all time – “about” is RC doing this to give Rafe new wings ? seems like it to me.. after all when it lacks steam… or not on full blast… pull over Jenny Bear and Hope… ARE ALL – about – that familial bond and parental. like Jenny Bear , as reporter like Hope.. as police commissioner – this gives their character relevance. along with parental “guidance” this is about what we can expect Hope had it… Read more »
I’m hoping… that the – recast – of Ciera Alice … triggers
because that’s where Hope NEEDS to be… Like Kayla too. (hopefully, w/ Tripp)
Sami and Rafe do have a very natural vibe and connection… SMOLDER
There you are, Patrick…!!!!!! Love you!! I was never okay with Hope and Rafe as a couple. I know I’m outnumbered, but I do not like Hope….never did!! ….especially with Rafe. She is another great example of soap-hypocrisy. Too goody-two-shoes for my taste…..when we know she can be as callous as they come. I don’t know where this is going; especially, not being aware if Sami is here to stay. But, if truth be known, I like Rafe and Sami as a couple….better than with any other counterpart…..better than with EJ. I looooved when she and Rafe were married. And,… Read more »
Michael Fairman, I have a lot to say about Y&R and have been waiting for you to write and/or post a blog about the Dina’s Alzheimer’s story. I think it’s been handled as well as can be expected for a soap opera and the results have been heart breaking. I give a big thumb’s up to the writers and actors. Peter Bergman makes my heart twinge as the son trying to hold on to his mother while she is still there mentally. For me, Dina and the Abbotts have been the best things going on Y&R. Not happy with the… Read more »
I ‘m enjoying Dina, too. Poor , Jack is having a difficult time; I imagine my reaction if it happened to someone I love.
WORD ! It’s baffling that their # 1&2 in the ratings! Both r real snoozers.
That’s your opinion, rocky. Are you saying that those of us who love soaps other tha GH are snoozers, as well? LOL. That’s how I interpret it….not nice!!
Seriously people theirs GH & then all the others !
seriously not!
When AW was cancelled in 1999, I made a decision to focus on the positive things (and there are many) going on in daytime. I find Days to be in a good place. Solid performances, embracing history of the show and good storytelling. I appreciate the efforts of Ron and his writing team. They truly want the show to continue for decades. Over at Y&R, I, too, am impressed with Marla Adams’ work as Dina. Peter and Eileen have been great with this story too. Mal’s stories are just starting to be kicked off after a little transition time, so… Read more »
I am also so glad that Days if Our Lives is now On Demand (channel 1) in the NBC – Primetime category from my Spectrum cable box. It may take 2 days or more for today’s episode to appear, but it’s worth the wait. I never miss an episode of DAYS now. Even if President Trump has a speech or they have California wildfires or a hot pursuit on a Los Angles freeway, I will still get to see the episode I missed on NBC On Demand. You don’t have to pay for it like CBS All Access.
hi James..
You don’t need CBS All Access if you watch everyday.
You get 5 free episodes a week..
You need to scroll down from the signup pay page, and there you find the free episodes..
Great news and well deserved Days!
It has been gaining because Will and Sonny are back on the canvas, though I hope they bring in someone for Paul – bring back Derrick the former hotel bellhop.
Great job Days of course it doesn’t hurt that they brought back Will and Eve.To bad Susan didn’t stick around a lot longer.A little comedy never hurts anyone
And now even more gains for DAYS!
And another great ratings report again!!!
Someone needs to convince Alison Sweeney to stay on the show.Pay her whatever she wants- just keep her in Salem!