Interviews
The Doug Davidson Interview – The Young and the Restless
Courtesy/CBS
Who doesn’t love to see one of the veterans of daytime getting handed the ball and a great emotional story, and then give it such a heartfelt delivery that it leaves us reaching for the hankies? Well, in recent weeks on The Young and the Restless, long-time stalwart Doug Davidson (Paul Williams) has been chewing the scenery with some powerful performances that really took off when Paul shot his son Ricky, which sent the evil one crashing through a window to his death! What has followed has not been good for poor Paul! Eden, who was about to be sliced to death by Ricky before Paul shot his son, can’t remember what happened. And, the knife, which is a key piece of evidence, is missing! Now Paul has been arrested for the murder of his psychotic son, and his ex-wife has come back into the picture to defend him! And that is only half of the story!
On-Air On-Soaps chatted with Doug Davidson to get his thoughts on taking front and center stage again, and how it has been working with his most recent on-screen offsprings, Peter Porte (Ex-Ricky) and Jennifer Landon (Nu-Heather). Doug also reveals if he would like to see a rekindling of the Paul and Christine (Lauralee Bell) romance, what he feels about all the actresses who have embodied Heather, and how he managed to rationalize playing the distraught father to an irredeemable character, and the challenges it presented him.
In addition, find out what Doug would like to see happen in the next the arc of the story if he had the opportunity to write it. We actually loved his suggestion and hope you will too! One thing is for certain, Doug is that dependable performer who can make us smile or break us down in tears. It’s always a joy to catch up with him and hear what he has to say about it all. So with that, here’s Doug!
MICHAEL:
Doug, your performances have been amazing and so moving. Fans and critics have given you well-deserved kudos and recognition. When you saw the script that said Paul shoots his son, Ricky in the shoulder who then crashes through a window to his death, what was your initial reaction?
DOUG:
Courtesy/CBS
The first thing I thought was, “OK. I have work to do!” (Laughs) Because it has been kind of spotty story wise for Paul, for awhile. Secondly, I thought fear and worry. If it wasn’t handled properly it could backfire. So I was kind of nervous. We had an instance where Chris and Paul had a rather violent lovemaking session, and because it wasn’t explained, did kind of backfire. I was pretty nervous about it, but once I saw how well crafted it was, then it was just performance anxiety! (Laughs)
MICHAEL:
Peter Porte (Ricky) had pushback from the audience at the beginning of his time on Y&R, but by the end of his run, people loved him and his performance! How was your experience working with Peter?
DOUG:
My experience with him was outstanding. I read with him when he got the job, and to his credit, once they gave him something to run with, he certainly was loaded and ready to go. It is kind of a difficult situation when you are not exactly sure what they want from you, and by the time they figured out the direction, then Peter knew where they were going with it, and he could give it to them. And he did, in spades.
MICHAEL:
On last Friday’s episode, when you as Paul were talking to Christine and Nina at Ricky’s gravesite talking about the father’s day card, it was so sad. It was my favorite part of your speech, even more than when Paul was alone in front of Ricky’s grave. In your portrayal, did you reconcile why Paul was a MIA dad to Ricky?
Courtesy/CBS
DOUG:
They did not write it in, and they did not explain it. I made the assumption that Paul would make periodic trips to see him, and so I had to have that in my own head to play. I think Paul, as a responsible father, would have done things like that. By the same token, once I realized that was not what their past was, you validate it by you saying you own your business, and that it is never a good time to getaway. Out of sight and out of mind. You might send an email here and there. And of course, they aged him to a point to where, in reality, Ricky would be 12. Faced with that, then I try to validate the fact that I was not as attentive as I might have been. Even doing it 24/7 with my own kids, you second guess your actions. Even with my own parents and their aging, I don’t always make the best, or admirable choice, in retrospect. I would probably push my kids too hard, or not hard enough. I was angry or not angry enough, and you can second guess it. So how I validate it in real life is come hell or high water, I did the best of my capabilities. But there were plenty of areas to play the guilt of Paul with regard to Ricky, because he is not the only kid to be raised by his grandparents. You know the history of this is not good anyway! Michael set up Isabella. She got herself pregnant. Then we got married. I think it went something like that! (Laughs)
MICHAEL:
So did Paul truly reconcile he had a psycho son?
DOUG:
Right, but then there was a period of time where Paul knew before anyone else! So then that discovery is painful too. You feel it in your heart, and it’s supported by the things you discover with logic. It’s hard to ignore when people are disappearing or dropping dead. And, he is acting strangely, and tormenting me, and all these things you pointed out were true as well.
Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins
MICHAEL:
Then what is interesting is how Y&R is crafting things with Christine back in Paul’s orbit. Now, she is defending him in his murder rap. However, then there is that little ditty of Phyllis mowing down Christine years ago in a hit and run. That has come to light, which then forced Christine to admit to Paul that she kissed Danny on the night of their wedding years ago. Paul took it quite well, I thought. What did you think about the way Paul reacted to that bit of news?
DOUG:
It happened so far down the road, and she even admitted it. Why would she lie? Christine admitted it was a goodbye kiss to Danny, as I recall. If she really had any hesitation she wouldn’t have gone through with the wedding. So her actions to Paul at the time suggested that what she was saying was definitely true. It was a goodbye kiss to her that was misinterpreted by psycho Phyllis. Whether or not I think it would have made a difference to me if I was the one who was seeing it, and had the visual and been a witness to the kiss, at that period of time, it might have upset Paul more. But that too would not have derailed it. Christine had a full-blown relationship and first-love. It would be hard to imagine that there weren’t’ still residual feelings for Danny as she enters a new relationship. Certainly, now we are both adults, or I like to think so! (Laughs)
MICHAEL:
Do you remember the details of the hit and run?
DOUG:
Christine and Paul were crossing the street and the car came out of nowhere. Paul was leaving and Christine was crossing the street, and Paul saw the car coming. He raced back to Christine and was not able to push her out of the way in time, if I remember this correctly.
MICHAEL:
Paul is in heap of trouble! He has been arrested because they cannot find the knife Ricky used to attack Eden. So it looks like Christine will help Paul and save him. Eventually, would you like to see the two former lovebirds get back together?
Photo Credit: Getty Images
DOUG:
It would certainly be welcome. I don’t know if Lauralee is going to be around. She is the middle of her child and family rearing, and I don’t know if it is something that will fit into her schedule. But I do know she is coming back from her summer vacation, and we have more scenes to come. I am always open to working with her. We spent over a decade working together side by side. So when they were calling us during the weeks we were shooting those episodes, they would call our name to the set, “Doug and Lauralee!” and it was just like the old days. It felt really good, and so of course. I would be open to it, and then there would be something to play with Tricia Cast (Nina) too.
MICHAEL:
Tricia Cast is such a fantastic actress to work with. Wasn’t there a romantic relationship going on with Nina and Paul? It seems it’s not being played that way anymore! What gives?
DOUG:
They have not been really playing the romantic thing between them at all, recently. So when people say it would be nice for Nina to have a romantic relationship with Paul, I too forget that I am in one! (Laughs)
MICHAEL:
At the gravesite during Ricky’s funeral, Nina was not holding Paul’s hand, or standing next to him. It was if their relationship was being played so non-committal!
DOUG:
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Usually the scenes we have we are talking about our offspring. And way early on, we were going to the movies and stuff like that. It has not been focused on in our relationship at all as of late, and any of those things that you might find in one.
MICHAEL:
Let’s talk about the “Heathers” in your life. You had Vail Bloom, then Eden Riegel and now Jennifer Landon play your on-screen daughter Heather Stevens. I think Jennifer possesses the sexiness of Vail and the acting chops of Eden! What do you think about my assessment?
DOUG:
I agree. I did not have any issues with Vail at all. I thought she was fabulous, and her dismissal shocked and surprised me, to tell you the truth. So I can’t really comment on that because I am not on the production side. I did not have to deal with the fact that she wasn’t on set. I know she had some serious medical issues that she was dealing with at the time. Eden, by her own admission, never really attached herself to the role. I think they liked her so much they wanted to give her a role and that was the one. But I think they were casting a couple of things at that time, and they gave that role to one and this to the other. I don’t think it ever jelled there. I don’t think it’s a talent thing; it’s the wrong part for a talented actress. And, I have to agree with you, that for me I feel that Jennifer is terrific. She is funny, she is smart, and she is great to work with. She is organic and free, and that is the part I connect to. She also has one degree of separation from me, because she is really good friends with my best friend and his family. We get along really well.
MICHAEL:
What is Heather and Paul’s relationship now? Are they close?
Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins
DOUG:
The most recent thing with Ricky showed Heather that Paul is committed to being a father. He is trying to make up for the mistakes he made in the past. And the first time Paul had a huge run-in with Ricky was in the coffee house, when he found out Ricky was the one who took the pictures of Heather and took advantage of his sister’s position to raise his own. It was thoughtless and heartless. I think Heather saw how Paul supported her through it. She is beginning to understand who Paul is, besides who she thought he was. The relationship issue there with Heather was that April had decided she would rather raise her with Heather’s step-father and make her believe she was begat out of that relationship. So that was not Paul’s decision. Then when the time arose, we had a tearful scene in the coffee house when we were indeed related, and Paul was not just a family friend. So I think Heather is on board now. I am sure Heather has residual feelings and hurt, but also beginning to get it now and feel that Paul is a real father to her.
MICHAEL:
You have had some very emotional scenes during your years on Y&R. Several times you have been Emmy nominated. You are one of the best male criers on daytime and the tears just flow, and so effortlessly it seems. Are those big emotional payoff scenes tough for you to do, such as the recent big moments in the aftermath of Paul shooting his son?
DOUG:
The performance anxiety that arose out of that was the changing face of daytime, and that they are going to give me a shot at it. It was suggested by one of our producers and the network, and then our executive producer and head writer, Maria Arena Bell, jumped at the idea. Then they told me about it. So there is always a bit of doubt, when it’s three o’clock in the morning and I am alone where I will say to myself, “I hope this all works out.” There was no net. I had new performers and I must say, once it kicked in and I saw the scripts and got into it, it is about the work. Any performer, when they look at it with their left brain, will be nervous about it until they get into the material. Doug is different than Paul, and Paul did fine with it. (Laughs)
Courtesy/CBS
MICHAEL:
From the beginning of your time on Y&R till now, you have told me in past interviews you have become a better actor. When you look at your body of work now, do you ever think, “I am a very fine actor in this medium?”
DOUG:
It is really hard for me to do that. It’s funny, because when I am doing it, it’s not part of me. I am trying to connect with what they have written, and who Paul is. It really is a kind of brainwashing. You are fooling your own mechanism that this is true, and this is happening, and you are this person. My technique is so refined; it is not something I think about. When you look at a concert violinist or a pianist, they are not thinking where their fingers go. They just go because they have been doing it for so long. Acting is one of the things that I know how to do. I think it is part of my personality. So when I look back, there are so many forces involved. I just don’t have that ego. I do remember when Y&R went to number one. I had the number one TVQ rating and Entertainment Tonight came out to my house! To take credit for it is not really fair. That is why when people win awards for their work, there are these long lists of people to thank. That’s because you really don’t do it on your own, unless you are an author of a book. I do give credit to all the people in my past from Brett Hadley and Carolyn Conwell, who played my on-screen parents, and the things I learned a long the way. I hope I do the same thing for young people in this business, and let them know they are not doing this alone. I am sure not.
MICHAEL:
What can fans expect coming up in the perils of Paul?
DOUG:
Paul will be out on bail, and Eden is going through hypnosis to help her memory to trigger where the missing knife is. And being under Bill Bell (Creator, Y&R) all these years, I don’t even question where they take us. My job is to sell it!
Courtesy/CBS
MICHAEL:
What would you love to see happen to Paul?
DOUG:
I think it would be incredibly hard to come to terms with what happened, even if it is true. There are so many ‘what ifs.’ It would be a dark place for the rest of Paul’s life when he thinks of Ricky. It’s like a war veteran. It’s like a part of your life that you have to deal with and go on. So there are some interesting stories there. I thought it would be nice to have Ricky come to Paul and Paul find a kid who is orphaned or homeless who has the same name, and is 10 or 12 years old. and does not have a dad. Paul then becomes a big brother to the kid, and tries to make up for the errors of the past with someone who still does need attention and help. I think it would be fun to bring Peter Porte back and redeem his character as a ghost or a spirit, and maybe Paul does not see him. But Ricky sees so much of his spirit working, and through the young kid who comes to Paul. Paul asks the kid his name, and he says, “Ricky”! Then it’s about how his relationship with his son and what happened changed him permanently.
MICHAEL:
Do you still like being the P.I.?
DOUG:
Photo Credit: Denice Duff
Yeah, but they don’t always write it. In the old days, Paul had cases he worked on without any need for the police department. For instance, the Cassandra storyline had the duality of having a case and a mysterious woman that happened to be part of the case, unbeknownst to Paul at the beginning. Things like that. But that is when we had isolated stories per character, and it was a completely different format than what we have today!
MICHAEL:
I was glad to see Paul had a scene with Phyllis where he lets her have it for running over Christine eons ago!
DOUG:
Yes, but it’s very short. But yes, we have one scene in the hallway at the police department where he does confront her.
MICHAEL:
I really wanted Paul to have a few choice words for her! (Laughs)
DOUG:
(Laughs) There is a bit of confrontation, and working with Michelle Stafford (Phyllis) is wonderful. I have nothing but superlatives for her. She brings it. She is great and fabulous.
MICHAEL:
Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins
In closing Doug, I just want to tell you it has been wonderful to see you being given some very heavy material and you have done an amazing job with it. Have you seen or felt the feedback from the fans and the longtime viewers of Y&R?
DOUG:
I am so flattered. I loved doing this story and it was a pleasure. I have to tell you the response has been so positive and overwhelming … and even on the message boards, which is unheard of. I cannot express the thanks and the gratitude I have for the fans and the people who have watched, and who have been supportive all along, and the new folks. And, the ratings went up!
43
Just wanted to say that the Paul/Ricky showdown has easily been the best part of Y&R this year. Doug & Peter deserve some major props from making yet another psycho story actually matter to the audience.
Doug soooo brought it in this story line! I wept. I have missed you. You are still very hot btw : )
Doug Davidson was simpy amazing in this story. Emmy worthy material. I think all the players brought their A game.
Thanks for another great interview Mr. Fairman.
My man Doug Davidson is and always has been one of the reasons I watched Y&R. He is a sweetheart like I said before give us a good story and we will come back MAB. Mr Fairman thank you for this interview this guy is so overlooked. I would have liked to have seen more scenes of Doug with his son before we went down this road but I will take anything I can get of DD, now lets keep him out of mothballs and on the front burner where he has always belonged. As Jeanne Cooper said when he… Read more »
I also forgot to add his comments about the actresses who played Heather were spot on. What a true gentleman the only comment about JL I have is tone the harir down otherwise I am warming up to her portrayal it was definitely not the role for Eden Riegel.
I’ve enjoyed Doug Davidson as Paul from the very beginning when he started, hanging out with Nikki. I can’t always catch Y & R, but whenever I see that Paul is on, I know that I will enjoy DD’s performance–he is always very natural and believable, no matter what kind of storyline is going on! And I like how he can do both heavy and more fun material with equal skill. Glad Y & R is using Davidson more now, and I hope that continues! I also like him having some storyline with Tricia Cast, who always is a gem… Read more »
Doug is a wonderful actor. Those scenes proved he has what it takes and I wish TPTB hadn’t waited so long to showcase his talent again. He is doing an awesome job! He also has always, in real life, seemed like a great guy, which is nice to know too!
Doug has been amazing in this storyline and definitely deserves an Emmy next year! I started watching Y&R 25 years ago and Paul has always been one of my favorite characters so it’s wonderful to finally see Doug Davidson on the frontburner again where he belongs. He makes everything feel so real and believable. I just love him!
While I have always liked Doug Davidson as Paul, his character’s “Juicy story” rings as very hollow and phony, which is pretty much everything as crafted by Maria Arena Bell. Paul has knowingly admitted not knowing his SORAS’ed son Ricky and never ever being there for him yet, so his graveside scenes didn’t produce any emotions for this long-time viewer. The SORAS’ing of his son (and of MANY MANY “Y & R” offspring have ruined many past timelines as created by the late great William J. Bell and his staff. By SORAS’ing Ricky to a 20-something young man negates everything… Read more »
Doug Davidson has deserved story for so long that I am thrilled he has finally gotten one that proves what an asset he is to Y&R. My partner, who is not a Y&R viewer, came in while I was watching the show on DVR and commented what a powerhouse performance Doug Davidson was giving.
Beef up Doug & Nina’s story….it is nice to see older couples having a relationship. Plus, Tricia Cast is a gem.
Chaz, any relation to Cher? Seriously, I totally agree. It’s about time Y&R writers are writing OUR DOUGIE back into the scripts. He’s been the MAIN reason I’ve been a dedicated viewer for 34 years! I loved his old story-lines, back when he dated April and impregnated her with Heather, and then when he went undercover into the mafia to trip up and take down the bad guys. His parents were always a huge part of the plot and I miss them both. Also, the original Patty, the blond teenager gal, cannot recall her name, anyone know, she was an… Read more »
Doug’s portrayal of Paul Williams was the reason I started watching over 30 yrs. ago. I never stopped and think he is an incredible actor. I would love to see him front and center more often. When an actor can make me cry when they cry, laugh when they laugh, and smile just by their presence on a tv screen… they’ve got something special, that’s for sure! Now, Doug… have Paul go out there and investigate this hit and run from so long ago!
I love that you now have a good story line and wish more for you and Nena, as I like to see the older players return with a few new ones. I have watched this story since the first of Y&R when the Brooks family was on. That has been many moons ago. Love it and if they take off the two stories left, I will stop watching CBS daytime . We do not need another game show or talk show. You are a great actor, and I love the show.
Doug u r a fantastic actor…ur fans all behind u n support u in whatever story line ur given ….best of luck to u in whatever u do.God Bless u n urs. The writers should get this knife found
Agreed! Where could have a huge knife like the one missing have gone? Some homeless guy walks by and picks it up to shave off his matted hair>? LOL. Certainly, it will be the KEY to SOLVE the issue and set Paul free! Then again, I think Paul should get his PI office back and have his story-line multiplied to what it once was! Also, Jennifer Landon is a great actress, she’s the daughter of Michael Landon, correct???
Paul has always been a great actor, glad to see him doing more of it, always been a favorite of mine, keep up the great work my friend… love ya Y&R is the very Best!!!
All are such great actors on there….. from Linda Lou
Great interview!
Doug Davidson was simpy amazing in this story. Emmy worthy material. I think all the writer team is doing best wrting in a long time and hope they keep it up. I hope to see more of Chris and him month head too they are best time and Nina too all three of them .keep of the good work doug as paul williams
IT DOES MY HEART GOOD, TO KNOW THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE THAT LOVES DD & PAUL. HE HAS BEEN MY FAVORITE ACTOR FROM THE BEGINNING AND ALWAYS WANTED MORE STORY LINES FOR HIM. THIS STORY LINE IS GREAT, BUT IT SEEMS TO BE GOING TO FAST. SLOW DOWN SO DD/PAUL CAN REMAIN ON THE FRONT BURNER LONGER. I TOO LIKE HAVING CHRIS & NINA BACK. INFACT, I HOPE THEY BRING MORE OF THE OLD CAST BACK. MAKES FOR GOOD STORY LINES. THIS WAS SUCH AN ENJOYABLE INTERVIEW HOPE TO SEE MANY MORE OF THESE. WE NEED TO… Read more »
Doug,There are not enough words in Websters dictionary to tell you what a fantastic actor you are. I have followed you for years. I totally missed you when my husband and I were stationed in Germany,that I didn’t see you. It was like loosing my best friend. I did get newspaper cli[ppings of The Young And Restless. It was during the winter of 1989 up to Nov.of 1991. I used to brag to my sister’s whenever I would get a new postcard or letter from you. I always had your picture hanging on my hutch in the kitchen. Now I… Read more »
Every now and then on Y & R, we are blessed with a story that just knocks it out of the park and that’s what happened with Doug when Paul shot his son. I rarely cry at stories (even when I’m supposed to feel sad) but Doug’s performance was so real that I found myself sobbing. He rarely gets “meaty” stories so I’m grateful for this one; it reminded me what an amazing actor he is.
Awesome interview! I love that Paul finally has a storyline 🙂
Love the interview! Always enjoy seeing Doug perform on Y&R [awesome story line these days].Sure wish you the best always !
doug is a fantastic actor and i’ve watched him on y & r since day one. had the chance to meet him personally a couple of times and he’s so wonderful to talk to. his warm kindness and that smile just melts anyones heart. he has a great personality that out shines his talent. the best storyline he’s ever done and deserves an emmy for was the ricky & paul storyline. that storyline really touched my heart and yes brought tears to my eyes also. all the years he’s acted on y & r can’t ever be replaced by anyone… Read more »
I have watched Doug play Paul Williams from the very beginning. So many great story lines over the years but I honestly think this is one of his best. I was kinda losing faith a bit in Y&R lately because I was seeing less and less of Paul and some of the other veteran actors. So happy to see he has another great story line his character can really sink his teeth into! Hope this leads to another Emmy nomination. Way to go Doug! Keep up the exceptional work and we will keep watching!!
I want to laugh because I’ve loved this guy since his entrance onto Y&R in ’78, when my pal Rick Springfield told me Doug was going to star on show! These new fans who’ve started liking him because of the RS cruises, behave as if they’re his biggest fans… and then there’s those, like me, who have loved this guy since his face was youthful and rounded, and his long blond hair was thick and…made fans long to run their fingers through it… Now I’m like, “I’m an original fan” and some of these young girls didn’t even know who… Read more »
Well, of course the ratings went up! How long have people waited for a story for Paul? I do like the idea, in moving forward, of this being a “war wound” for Paul — and that is takes some time for the understanding and a measure of peace in the soul. Doug has learned so much over the years, but he has always been great — and I really do miss a great PI story because I love the adventure! So here’s hoping,
Love to Paul and Doug!
Cheryl P
hi
an excellent interview. love lori
FINALLY the recognition he deserves! Long time in the waiting .. Doug has always been the greatest actor.. Never changes in looks, still as handsome as ever. These last few months you have done an awesome job. Thank you wrighters for giving Doug more and more in the story. He does deserve another emmy. Wow fantastic father an son acting. Keep it up Doug! Armenian hugs an kisses:)
Why does Phyllis get out a jail free card and forgiven by everybody except Paul and Cricket? Phyllis is just like Daisy and Ricky(demented). She needs to pay for all of her dirt. Didn’t she kill the nurse named Sasha back in the day because the nurse knew about her dirty deeds involving the baby and Danny situation? Also, Michael and Ronan should be taken off the case. They are warning the killer and sticking up for her.
Doug,
I would like to see your performance with Ricky. I would love to see you in action now to find out that Ricky isn’t actually dead. Your are an amazing character. You need to stop hidding behind your shield and let Christine (Lauralee Bell) know that she needs to focus on your case and attempt to prosecute Phyllis later. The writers need to allow you and Ricky’s mother unite and then allow her to go off the deep end after seeing you with Christine. The storyline is great and you do well at it.
I have always loved Paul, his amazing way of turning on and off those tears are incredible.. When he cries I cry because of the realness of it. He truely makes the show. I would love to see him and Cricket back together.. but poor Nina would be distraught.. Hopefully they will find her a good man in the future she sure needs it. I never liked Ricky..Not happy about the ex- returning- definitely hoping he dos not rekindle with her.
I am so glad that Doug has such a great role to play. He is an awesome actor and it’s great that he has a meaty storyline to portray. Very excited for him & the show.
Great interview! Thank you Micheal! Doug is the unsung hero of this show. Those of us who have watched him over the years know he can completely knock it out of the park whenever the writers give him a chance. His acting in the Ricky story line was mesmerizing. I just wish he would be featured in front burner stories more often. Doug is the one who puts the heart and soul back into Y & R with his amazing ability to convey deep and totally genuine emotion. That’s the essence of soap operas for me. I really hope Paul’s… Read more »
Doug Davidson is a tremendous talent and a sweet person. He is hilarious in person. This interview was terrific and I hope to see more. I am glad the ratings went up for Y&R. Paul DESERVES it! Paul is effortlessly emotional and it does come naturally, like riding a bike. To Doug, never question yourself, you are right about just letting Paulie steer! ***I just want to see more Paul on Y & R!!! You deserve a very Special EMMY award! 🙂 Great Q & A. Thanks!!!!
Thanks for this great interview. Doug Davidson is the heart and the soul of the show. I love his suggestion about a young kid coming to Paul. How about this boy being Maggie Sullivan’s son and asking Paul to find his mother who just vanished (like Carl Williams years ago)? Paul would bond with the boy who could even be his son.
I really would like to see paul (Doug Davidson) and christina (Lauralee Bell) rekindle there romance I think they make a good c on the show. its time to see more on the show Y& R
Thank you y and r for giving Paul a great storyline. He is a great actor that doesn’t get much screen time! Outstanding performance!
I think Paul is a great guy, great acting, made me have tears. I think he should be best male actor. He is a great looking guy, great personality.
I love Paul and Chris together, their love and emotion seem so real.
Doug you do a great job just wish you were on there more often. You play a good role and I can’t miss a day without seeing this. I like you and Christine on here togather. Thanks for all the Pictures you have sent me and I am waiting for another photo of you. Your are a very handsome man. Keep the good work up. Can’t wait to the show to come on in the daytime. take care.
Doug has done a marvelous job with the Ricky storyline. Hope he is featured more in the future.
Doug Davidson has played the role of Paul Williams for an amazingly long time and he has had 2 children Heather and Ricky to come back into his life as adults and then he ends up having his daughter leave town and his son dies. He is a strong person, who endures so many unhappy periods in his life; but he is still able to go on with his life and I know that his TV father and mother would be very proud of all he has accomplished (the chief of police no less). What a GUY!!!! Paul Williams needs… Read more »
Interviews
Y&R’s Christian LeBlanc and Michelle Stafford Talk On Their Enduring Friendship, Sharing Scenes & Preview Special Episode
Coming up on the Monday, January 10th episode of The Young and the Restless, the CBS daytime drama series will mark the 30th anniversary of Christian LeBlanc as Michael Baldwin.
In it, Michael will being trying to figure out what’s next in his life, after he has been a successful legal eagle for decades, with the assistance of several characters and some memorable flashbacks that might inform him.
Photo: JPI
LeBlanc debut on Y&R back at the end of November in 1991, and has won three Daytime Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series throughout his time in Genoa City.
To celebrate Christian’s 30th anniversary, Michael Fairman welcomed Christian and his longtime co-star and dear friend, Michelle Stafford (Phyllis) for a special conversation on You Tube’s The Michael Fairman Channel along with some memorable clips.
Photo: JPI
During the chat, Michelle and Christian reveal their favorite scenes together, how they met, the key to their enduring friendship, and and how they have gone through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Later, Christian shares his reaction to the on set celebration in his honor with his co-star and previews his special episode.
Photo: JPI
In addition, during the holidays, Michelle helped organize a toy drive for the second year in a row to help children and families in need along with the NAACP and the National Action Network, which Christian participated in along with several Y&R cast members, and they discuss how the toy drive came together during these trying times for everyone.
Courtesy/CLeBlancIG
Now below, check out the full interview with Christian and Michelle, followed by the promo for LeBlanc’s special episode.
Let us know in the comment section what your favorite part of the conversation was, what are your favorite Michael and Phyllis scenes through the years on Y&R and share your congratulations to Christian on a job well-done for his 30-year milestone.
He IS the BEST of the best! @CJLeBlanc #YR #30years pic.twitter.com/XFsYTzjL4M
— Michelle Stafford (@TheRealStafford) January 7, 2022
Interviews
Y&R’s Joshua Morrow Chats On Nick’s Standalone Christmas Eve Episode
Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow) is one tired Santa! After delivering presents to the less fortunate for Christmas, he is tuckered out, and thus will begin the special episode The Young and the Restless is serving up on Friday, December 24th.
The Christmas Eve airing of this all-new standalone episode marks the fourth time in Joshua Morrow’s career that he has been featured like this on the top-rated CBS soap.
In this story, Nick will try to come to terms with where his life is headed when he is taken on a journey through his dreams. Enter plenty of your other favorites from the Newman clan and more, who will definitely make an impact on Nick. At the end of it all, will Nick come away with some revelations and reflections? Will he learn anything that will change him for the better and give him a clear direction?
As viewers recently witnessed, Nick and Phyllis (Michelle Stafford) called it quits in heartbreaking scenes, leaving Nick once again at a loss in the love live department. Will he, in turn, eventually reunite with Sharon (Sharon Case), when all is said and done?
Michael Fairman TV talked with Joshua to get insight and a preview on what to expect during this holiday episode including: if he feels Nick is adrift, how he sees each of the characters from Adam (Mark Grossman) to Victoria (Amelia Heinle) impacting his alter-ego, and of course, Nick’s relationships with the women in his life. So, with that, ‘ho, ho, ho,” here’s our yuletide chat with Mr. Morrow.
Photo: SonjaFlemming/CBS
How did you feel when you got a script for this special Christmas episode, and that it was all centered-on Nick?
JOSHUA: My first reaction was, “Do people really want to see more of Nick? (Laughs) When you see an episode like this, you instantly know that you’ve got to do a lot of work. You’re basically in every scene, and I think it’s pretty common knowledge that I learn my lines in the morning when I get to work. However, on those days, you can’t do that, so you just know that you’ve got to prepare, and everyone is counting on you. I like doing my scenes as fast as possible, but when you have that much material, you’ve got to put the time in. As an actor, you hope it’s written well, and that you perform it the way they want you to, and you just go from there.
It’s not about which women Nick should sleep with next? (Laughs)
JOSHUA: I think all of Nick’s dreams are women-based. (Laughs) He’s walking around town going, “Who’s next?” No, it’s a dream about figuring out who he is. He is going through this kind of loop in his life where he’s not entirely sure where he is, where he should be, what he should be doing, how he’s treating people … it’s just kind of a look inside himself to see if he can come up with any solutions because he knows that what is happening and what he is doing right now is not working. He doesn’t necessarily know why or how he got to this place, but with the help of some family, hopefully he will figure it out in the dream.
Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS
Sounds like Nick is very much at a crossroads here.
JOSHUA: Yes, that’s a good description of it. He’s just kind of wandering, and the biggest thing (and he’s been going through this a lot throughout his whole life) is that he just doesn’t know why he gets to this place. It’s like, is it something he’s doing? Is there something wrong with him? He’s just questioning a lot of things, so during the holidays, it seems like the perfect time to come up with solutions for oneself.
So, in his dream, should viewers expect to we see different characters coming to him, like we’ve seen in other Y&R episodes similar to this?
JOSHUA: Yes, in the dream, we’re seeing his family coming into his life, and they’re talking about who he is, the good parts about him, sometimes the bad …
… Wait, Nick has bad parts about him?
JOSHUA: Well … just maybe some things that he needs to improve on. (Laughs) Without him knowing it, I think Nick is kind of hard on people. If they don’t necessarily think like he is, without knowing it, he tends to hold that against them. Just because somebody doesn’t think like you, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re wrong. He is just struggling with where he is in life. He is wondering if he is doing things right. The dream comes up, and it helps him realize some things.
Photo: JPI
You and Michelle Stafford (Phyllis) did some wonderful scenes recently that aired when Phyllis and Nick broke up. Do you remember taping those? How did you feel about the on-screen relationship going south … again?
JOSHUA: For me, Stafford is my bro. When you start doing those types of scenes, you realize it’s the end of something for now. I realized that there was a window when I was with her every day, laughing, making fun of each other, doing the fraternity style comedy that we do with each other. I did those scenes with sadness because I knew that they were breaking us up and that I wouldn’t get to see her every day, but they were great. Michelle is such a freaking tornado of talent. I was excited to see her really do the thing I think she does best, which is just unbridled passion, whether it’s positive or negative. She obviously crushed it. I was just happy to be a part of it. I don’t have to do much heavy lifting in those scenes. I just wanted to be there for her. I think that the scenes did turn out very well. I wasn’t happy to do them, but I always want to do good work.
Photo: JPI
So, where is Nick at with Sharon (Sharon Case) at this point? How does she impact him in the holiday episode?
JOSHUA: Sharon is in the special episode offering Nick a lot of advice and guidance. Sharon is one of Nick’s biggest cheerleaders. She is constantly trying to make him feel good and better about things that he does. They’re really good friends. They are coparenting, you know. I’m no dummy, obviously the writing is on the wall as to where this will lead, but the journey of how they get there will be the question. I don’t know when it will happen, but obviously Nick and Sharon have a tremendous history, and anytime they get together it is usually beautifully told. I don’t know for certain because I don’t ask, but if that is indeed the path that they are going down, I am sure that it will be something the long-time “Shick” supporters are very happy with. Like I said, there is no romantic anything at the moment. They’re nothing about that. It’s just that around the holidays, it’s tough not to have someone, and they’re there for each other. They’ve got kids, and they’re just trying to have a good Christmas.
Photo: JPI
Nick and Adam (Mark Grossman) have a very contentious relationship that is very complex. How does that figure into the equation?
JOSHUA: It’s an interesting dynamic because Nick is forever grateful to Adam. I literally think he has saved every one of Nick’s children’s lives at some point in their past, and maybe even Noah a couple of times (Laughs) It’s a delicate relationship because whether he mentions it or not, Nick is jealous that Victor (Eric Braeden) seems to turn to Adam now. Despite all of Nick’s, “I want to do my own thing, leave me alone, etc.” it really hurts him that Victor turns to Adam when the family needs it. For all of Nick’s, “I’m my own man,” he still really believes in the strength of the Newman family. He will always have its back, and if it’s being threatened, like it was with what Nick perceives Ashland (Richard Burgi) to be doing, and Victor doesn’t come to Nick to help with that (or … he does in the beginning, but when it comes to an end, he basically casts Nick aside), that really bothers him. It’s hard not to take that out on Adam. Still, he doesn’t trust him fully, and he is always kind of on edge around him. It’s a delicate balance of trust and acceptance with Nick and Adam.
Photo: SonjaFlemming/CBS
Does Nick feel like the ‘odd man out’ with Victor, when it always seems that Adam and Victor team up?
JOSHUA: He absolutely does, and again, Nick had brought a lot of this on himself. He is constantly saying, “I’m going to do me. I’m going to make my own decisions. I don’t want you impacting any of those,” but then when Victor turns to Adam and not Nick in a very important situation that involves his sister, Nick is pretty hurt by that. Nick does feel like Adam has come into his relationship with his father. They’re working together very closely. It seems like Adam had Victor’s ear. It seems like Victor trusts Adam – at this point, maybe even more than Nick. That definitely bothers him. I don’t fault Victor in this because all Nick has done is stomp is feet and say, “I don’t like the way you handle things,” and, “Leave me alone. I’m going to handle things my own way.” It’s an interesting situation for Victor to be in because I think he wants Nick to be in the fold. He wants Nick to be there whenever he needs him, but Nick has not made that easy. He is very hardheaded when it comes to the family dynamic at times. Nick has created all these difficult relationships now in his family, except with his mother. He and Victoria (Amelia Heinle) are at odds. He and Victor are always staring each other down at opposite sides of the fence, and then Adam comes in, and threatens what he perceived to be his role in the family, and that also kind of leads to the whole dream.
Photo: SonjaFlemming/CBS
You brought up Nikki (Melody Thomas Scott). How do you see the bond between mother and son?
JOSHUA: Nick and his mother have always had an extremely close relationship. Nikki leans on Nick to bring peace in the family, and Nick leans on her to talk him off the ledge at times because he does overreact, and he acts impulsively at times, while Nikki is very cool, calm, and collected at all times. Usually, he does everything she asks of him. Nick is very clearly a Momma’s boy, and he always will be, and if his mother needs him, he is going to step up and do what she wants.
Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS
In terms of his sister, Victoria, how does Nick feel about their stormy relationship?
JOSHUA: I feel like they are not contentious now, but there is a level of sadness because they’ve always been the best of friends. They have always relied on each other for everything, and now that has been completely cast aside. They realize they are no longer each other’s person, the person they go to for anything: advice, support, comfort, whatever. That is gone for each of them now. It started with the Phyllis situation with the hotel, and now, it is certainly taken to another level with the Ashland thing. I think that’s what the overall feeling is between the two of them at this time.
Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS
What’s amazing is that you, Amelia, Eric, and Melody are all really close in real life. It’s like you truly have a second family.
JOSHUA: It’s a real family. The four of us are, for sure. Without question, my favorite scenes to do on the show are when the four of us are together because we really are so close. Those dynamics are the fabric of what the show is about. It’s not just the Newmans, but with the Abbotts and the Winters as well, and when the show highlights that, and really puts those small details at the front of the show, the fans realize that you don’t need those big, dynamic stories. You don’t need the big explosive things. When you just see those tender moments between those family members, that is everything. That is the Bill Bell (Co-Creator, Y&R) playbook. It’s easy to play because we care so much about each other, and I think it comes across on the screen.
Photo: JPI
Now, you’ve got a new Noah in Rory Gibson, and you got a new Faith in Reylynn Caster, both who came on to the show in the last several months. How are they doing, and how has it been for you to adjust to working with them as their on-screen father?
JOSHUA: It’s been awesome. I’ve always said it’s a very tough job because I fall in love with these kids who play my children, and eventually they go off and do something else, or when they are little, sometimes there is a window when they turn about four, where they go, “I don’t want to be here! (Laughs) But when they’re babies, they’re just kind of in your arms, and it’s hard not to fall in love with them, but then when they get older, I see them grow up and turn into young adults. Rory is an absolute stud. I did screen-test with the actors auditioning for the role of Noah, and he went first. I’m not exaggerating when I say two beats into our rehearsal, not even the actual screen-test in front of the network, I locked eyes with him, and I went, “This is him. What are we doing? I don’t need to do this with anyone else.” He’s got a soul to him that is really amazing to watch. He’s got depth. He’s a really tremendous actor. He’s a good kid, too. He works hard, and he really wants to do well, and he’s humble. In the special episode, Rory steals the dream. He does a scene in this show that is going to break women’s hearts around the world. I am excited for people to see what he can truly do. The sky is the limit for this kid. I love having him here. I super miss Robbie (Robert Adamson, Ex-Noah). I love him like he is a son of my own, but Rory has taken this role and done something really good with it. So has Rey-Rey. She is obviously a tremendous talent. Losing Alyvia Alyn Lind (Ex-Faith), who was one of the great loves of my life, killed me. However, I couldn’t be prouder of her. We text weekly about what’s going on with her, and she’s off crushing it, and the world is not ready for Aly, trust me! Rey-Rey has come in, a beautiful, talented, young girl, who really wants to do well, and she fits right into the Newman mold. I’ve been very, very blessed. The casting department has really knocked it out of the park with these two.
Photo: JPI
I know Hunter King (Ex-Summer) is not on the show right now, but I know you two are really close.
JOSHUA: Yeah, good grief. It’s hard for me. Probably Hunter and Amelia are the two others loves of my life along with Aly. Hunter and I will text each other constantly, making fun of each other. We have such a special relationship. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t miss her. I just know that she will be back someday. I don’t know why. Whereas I know Aly is gone forever. She is off, and she is going to be a huge star. Some fish outgrow their ponds, and I said that about her when she left. Aly is off to a much bigger world, but I have a feeling (and maybe it is more of a hope) that Hunter will come back to me, and I say “me” because nobody loves her more than me. My kids are just everything to me on this show. Honestly, it is one of the things that keeps me coming back for now almost 28 years. I love them. They’re all great people.
Photo: TMorrowTwitter
What are you and your wife, Tobe, and the family, going to do for the holidays?
JOSHUA: We always go snowboarding. We didn’t go last year obviously because of staying safe from COVID, but we tend to go Colorado every year, and we will be doing that again. My oldest is away at college this year, so it will be fun to get him home and go off and do what we do. I remember when I was in my teens learning to snowboard, I was like, “Someday, I cannot wait to lead a bunch of sons down big mountains!” and I’ve been doing that for years with them. Two years ago, my middle son, who is just this testosterone-raged-alpha-male, finally said, “Dad, I’m leading us down.” I was like, “Okay.” He is the one son who has surpassed me in speed, and now we follow him. (Laughs)
Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS
Now let’s talk College Basketball! (Laughs) Gonzaga has already had two losses and it seems every week there is a new team at #1 in the rankings. Who do you think is looking good?
JOSHUA: I only watch Oklahoma hoops. (Laughs) The days of going off to March Madness with all my friends and acting like jackasses for multiple days are gone because I have soccer and lacrosse commitments with my family, but I am still equally as passionate about Oklahoma basketball as I’ve ever been. I always say it, and it is definitely more heart than mind, but Oklahoma is going to win the national championship this year.
Okay, Joshua. We will put it out there in the press!
JOSHUA: You’ve got to put it in the universe!
So, looking forward to Nick’s Christmas journey on Y&R? Which women in Genoa City would you like to see Nick have a relationship with next? What advice would you give Nick Newman to get his life on track? Share your thoughts on this, and our conversation with Joshua, via the comment section below.
Days Of Our Lives
DAYS Chandler Massey & Zach Tinker Chat On ‘WilSon’, Being Recasts, ‘A Very Salem Christmas’ and that Drag Show
Chandler Massey (Will) and Zach Tinker (Sonny) are back for another streaming special, reprising the duo of “WilSon”. Massey and Tinker can now be seen in the holiday film, Days of our Lives: A Very Salem Christmas now on Peacock.
In a new virtual interview with Michael Fairman for You Tube’s Michael Fairman Channel, Chandler and Zach talk about their scenes and their participation in the Salem Christmas tale.
Courtesy/Peacock
As many know by now, in story, Will has to act fast to come up with a story for his script with his Christmas Eve deadline approaching. Sonny decides he will assist Will and help conjure up the story, and thus we get an altered version of Salem from the guys that plays on the history of Days of our Lives.
Photo: JPI
During the conversation, Zach weighs-in on being a recast for Sonny (previously played by Freddie Smith), and Chandler shares that it’s always challenging to step into a role played by someone else – something he also had to do when he began on DAYS.
Courtesy/Peacock
In addition, the two discuss reprising their drag roles of Amanda Bottom and Sonny Delight for the holiday number to help save Salem business owners from eviction in Days of our Lives: Beyond Salem.
The actors also banter about the importance of maintaining a presence for ‘WilSon’ as one of the only LGBTQ on-screen duos as part of a daytime soap opera. The question is: will the airshow write them back in?
Photo: JPI
Chandler also weighs-in on: if he was writing Will’s holiday script, what would he like to see befall the good citizens of Salem? You’ll hear his answer.
Check out the interview with Chandler and Zach below.
Now let us know, are you enjoying Chandler and Zach as the new version of WilSon? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
GH’s Kristina Wagner On Felicia’s Concern Over Maxie’s Emotional State
B&B’s Lawrence Saint-Victor and Thorsten Kaye to Guest on THE TALK
The Bold and the Beautiful to Dedicate Episode to Betty White On What Would Have Been Her 100th Birthday
Days of our Lives, General Hospital, and The Young and the Restless Receive WGA Award Nominations
Remembering One Life to Live on the 10th Anniversary of its Final Episode on ABC
Robert Newman On Joining the Cast of Y&R: “I Feel Pretty Blessed to Have the Opportunity”
Guiding Light Alum Murray Bartlett Scores SAG Award Nomination for His Performance in ‘White Lotus’
Richard Burgi Clarifies Why He’s OUT as Y&R’s Ashland Locke
ABC Entertainment President, Craig Erwich Offers Update on ‘Pine Valley’ and is Open to Additional ‘General Hospital’ Iterations
Guiding Light Favorite Robert Newman is Y&R’s New Ashland Locke
Richard Burgi Clarifies Why He’s OUT as Y&R’s Ashland Locke
Richard Burgi Reveals He’s ‘Moving On’ From The Young and the Restless
ABC Entertainment President, Craig Erwich Offers Update on ‘Pine Valley’ and is Open to Additional ‘General Hospital’ Iterations
Remembering One Life to Live on the 10th Anniversary of its Final Episode on ABC
Guiding Light Favorite Robert Newman is Y&R’s New Ashland Locke
The Bold and the Beautiful to Dedicate Episode to Betty White On What Would Have Been Her 100th Birthday
B&B’s Lawrence Saint-Victor and Thorsten Kaye to Guest on THE TALK
Robert Newman On Joining the Cast of Y&R: “I Feel Pretty Blessed to Have the Opportunity”
Days of our Lives, General Hospital, and The Young and the Restless Receive WGA Award Nominations
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Michael at a Crossroads; What Did You Think of Christian LeBlanc’s 30th Anniversary Episode?
Remembering One Life to Live on the 10th Anniversary of its Final Episode on ABC
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Michael at a Crossroads; What Did You Think of Christian LeBlanc’s 30th Anniversary Episode?
‘Soapdish’ Series Adaptation in the Works for Paramount +; Whoopi Goldberg to Reprise Her Role
Y&R’s Christian LeBlanc and Michelle Stafford Talk On Their Enduring Friendship, Sharing Scenes & Preview Special Episode
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: A Shocked Brooke Exclaims: “Oh, My God! I Was Drinking Last Night!”
‘The Bachelor’ Season Premiere: Will Clayton’s Season Be Intriguing or a Dud?
Betty White, Multi-Emmy Winner, Sitcom Star, and B&B Alum, Dies at 99
‘As the World Turns’ Alums Try to Stump Contestants On All-New Episode of ‘Soap Opera Know-It-All’ Game Show
‘This Is Us’ Cast Reflects on the Show as Its Final Season is About to Premiere
Erika Slezak Shares Holiday Letter & Fan Club Milestone Expressing: “I Thank All Of You For Sticking With Me All These Years”
-
NewsJanuary 11, 2022Richard Burgi Clarifies Why He’s OUT as Y&R’s Ashland Locke
-
NewsJanuary 8, 2022Richard Burgi Reveals He’s ‘Moving On’ From The Young and the Restless
-
General HospitalJanuary 11, 2022ABC Entertainment President, Craig Erwich Offers Update on ‘Pine Valley’ and is Open to Additional ‘General Hospital’ Iterations
-
NewsJanuary 13, 2022Remembering One Life to Live on the 10th Anniversary of its Final Episode on ABC
-
Breaking NewsJanuary 11, 2022Guiding Light Favorite Robert Newman is Y&R’s New Ashland Locke
-
Breaking NewsJanuary 13, 2022The Bold and the Beautiful to Dedicate Episode to Betty White On What Would Have Been Her 100th Birthday
-
NewsJanuary 14, 2022B&B’s Lawrence Saint-Victor and Thorsten Kaye to Guest on THE TALK
-
NewsJanuary 12, 2022Robert Newman On Joining the Cast of Y&R: “I Feel Pretty Blessed to Have the Opportunity”