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The Gina Tognoni Interview – The Young and the Restless

Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto

Courtesy/CBS

It was one of the most sought after roles in the history of daytime for any actress to play. After quite the search to find the successor to two-time Daytime Emmy winning dynamo, Michelle Stafford, The Young and the Restless has found their gal in Gina Tognoni  to step into the shoes of Phyllis Summers!  Soap fans know of Gina’s stellar work from her first daytime role as Kelly Cramer on One Life to Live, to her two-time Daytime Emmy winning star turn as Dinah Marler on Guiding Light.  Now the journey begins for the Y&R audience to see just how the talented Tognoni will put her own stamp and spin on firecracker Phyllis!

And as it written in the soap opera handbook 101 … when one actress is put in a coma to facilitate her exit, but then goes to another soap, only to wake up from a coma as a different character … the original soap has the character wake up from a coma as another actress!  Got it?   But with that, both Michelle Stafford now Nina Clay on GH, and Gina Tognoni now Phyllis on Y&R, both have roles befitting their acting chops!

On-Air On-Soaps had the pleasure of sitting down with Gina at the set of Y&R for one of her first interviews back to the soap fold where we gleaned: just how she landed the primo role in Genoa City, how she views the character of Phyllis, and what she thinks of her new leading men, Joshua Morrow (Nick) and Peter Bergman (Jack). And Gina gives us some subtle, yet definite clues as to what to look for when Phyllis finally awakens for her comatose state.  And let’s be real here … hell hath no fury like a Phyllis scorned!

In addition, Gina addresses the sad fate of her former soap homes, Guiding Light and One Life to Live, plus getting into the groove at the number one soap playing the kickass Phyllis, who fans are just waiting to spring back to life and into action!  The story picks up stream on the Monday, August 11th episode of Y&R when Gina makes her on-screen debut.  And now, here’s our enlightening and entertaining chat with the new Phyllis in town!

MICHAEL:

Was there ever a time you thought: “I would like to be on the number one show, Y&R?”

GINA:

Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins

Yes, yes, and yes! A few weeks ago I stayed in Melody Thomas Scott’s (Nikki) dressing room, which I have to say is epic!  It is incredible.  My whole life I have admired this show.  It is number one for a reason.  It is not only beautiful to look at, but there is just a certain type of class with this show, and I say that in the best possible way.  It was no more evident when I got the job from the phone calls I got from everybody, but especially the phone call I got from Peter Bergman (Jack).  And, can I just say, he was my first call!  Peter is truly the ambassador of The Young and the Restless.  He is truly authentic, and what a gift to be working with him.

MICHAEL:

Did Peter Bergman say to you, “Gina, you don’t know what you have gotten yourself into?” (Laughs)  And then did he say, “You have big shoes to fill!”

GINA:

(Laughs) Actually, it was a kind message congratulating me and saying how happy he was.  I kept that message on my phone for a really long time, because it meant a lot to me.  It’s people like Jimmy Freeman, our associate producer and former show publicist, who call and open their heart and tell you a little bit about the show.  And from there it was the hair and make-up team, directors, wardrobe; it has been awesome and rare.

MICHAEL:

I heard you blew everyone away with your audition tape and screen test!  So what were the scenes that you performed? Everyone kind of wants to know how this all came about that the show ended up choosing you, since this role is so identifiable to Michelle Stafford (Nina GH) who was your predecessor in the part.

GINA:

Photo Credit: DuffImages.com

So, I have loved Michelle Stafford’s work.  I think she is fabulous, and that is why this role is so amazing, because she is fearless.  I identify with that.  With that being said, I was in New York.  I put myself on tape and I sent it to the Y&R casting director, Judy Blye Wilson.  There was a casting call for the role that was open to all.  It was interesting.  I didn’t know if I was going to go back to daytime, or what I was going to do, or what was going to be in my path.  I thought, “You know what?  We are going to try and see if this is the right match.”  So the show called me back and said they wanted me to come out to L.A to screen test.  And when I came out here, I was so open to the fact that maybe this isn’t the right thing, but if it is, it will be.  Then when I arrived here and got to the studio, and being here the day of the screen test, it just felt like Kismet.  It felt right.  So I performed two scenes: one with Peter Bergman and one with Joshua Morrow (Nick).  And initially the scene I sent in from New York was between Phyllis and Sharon.  I love that relationship.  It’s a real fierce relationship.  I felt that I understood that.  I was then happy to see they were going to focus on the two guys here.  I think that was important to see what the chemistry is like.  Peter and Joshua are two different entities, and what is wonderful is that Phyllis has two important men in her life.

MICHAEL:

What was your first impression of Mr. Morrow?

GINA:

Joshua is gorgeous inside and out.  He is a bright light, and he has been here a long time, and he is still so humble.  That struck me, along with Joshua’s ability.

MICHAEL:

Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins

Joshua told me in a recent interview that he wants the fans to give you a shot and a chance to win them over as Phyllis!  What were the audition scenes with Joshua like?

GINA:

It actually was an aggressive scene between Phyllis and Nick that was a fight layered with a lot of passion.  Whereas the Peter scene was about Jack’s trust and how the hallmark of their relationship was that they always had trust.  And with Nick, there is a fire.  Now, Joshua is a beautiful man! (Laughs)  And I am a married woman in real life! (Laughs)  I am looking at him, again thinking that he is just so humble, and yet he is so funny!  I love being around anybody who can make me laugh.

MICHAEL:

So are you aware of the “Phick” fans and the “Shick” fans, and that never the two will meet? (Laughs)

GINA:

I learned about it.  I am like scared of these people! (Laughs)  Let me tell you, I am going to wear horse blinders, because I am NOT going to read what people are saying.   I will purposely not read what people are writing for awhile.  I have to focus on the work.

MICHAEL:

What happened when you found out you had nabbed the role of Phyllis?  How did you find out?  Who told you?

GINA:

Courtesy/IMDB

Let me just put like this: It was completely on facebook and quickly on the Internet. And that happened well before any of my family members knew, and it just shows you the speed of social media.  It got out there fast when it was announced.  I truly, when I left this building for the screen test, knew I was proud of my work.  I had stepped out of my comfort zone.  I pushed it, in my opinion, but I knew that’s what this particular role needs.  As Phyllis, you have to really just go for it!  And, we don’t know the way the fans are going to go with this.  I am like: “Well, I hope they like me.”  I remember after the audition seeing Y&R executive producer Jill Farren Phelps’ face.  She looked happy, but there was still another girl to read for the role.  Everyone gets a fair shot, but the cards went my way.  Now the way I found out was through a text message from a friend who said, “Oh, my God.  I just found out you got the role!”  When I found out I got the part I couldn’t believe it, and I was so thrilled.  Then, I had a moment of: “Oh, my gosh!  How am I going to do this?”  I was concerned how I was going to work out the flying back and forth from the east coast, and the logistics of it all.  As everyone knows, soaps are at an insane speed.  Every day there is new stuff for everyone to learn.  I was used to that stuff, but the travel I had not done.  But what is unbelievable is that it is all working out quite well.  Typically, I will fly in a day before I tape an episode, or if it’s for four episodes, even better.

MICHAEL:

But you had to have a “pinch yourself moment” when it sank in that you were going to be the actress to play Phyllis.

GINA:

I was speechless.   I think I thought, “Wow! Wow! Wow!”  Because in my mind, Y&R is the number one show on the planet!  This is the number one role on the planet, so this is it!  In Jill Phelps’ words: “This is as good as it gets!”  And it’s true.  I am a very lucky girl, but I am blessed.

MICHAEL:

Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto

You had worked with Y&R’s executive producer Jill Farren Phelps previously, correct?

GINA:

Yes.  I worked with Jill a million years ago when I was at One Life to Live.  She said to me, “You grew up pretty good.”  And that just meant so much.  Jill is wonderful to work for.  It had been so long since we had worked together, but to get this role was still a fair fight.

MICHAEL:

Michelle Stafford sent you a tweet congratulating you on becoming the next Phyllis. What did you think of her doing that?

GINA:

I think it was classy.  Look, I loved what she did with the role, and I think I identified with it.  Dinah and Phyllis could have been from the same family, in fact, they might be cousins! (Laughs)  I pray that the audience gives me a chance, but what I am going to do with all of my heart is express the spirit of Phyllis.

MICHAEL:

And what is the spirit of Phyllis to you?

GINA:

She loves with all of her heart fearlessly, and she is not afraid of what that looks like, and that is interesting to play.

MICHAEL:

Are you nervous that no matter what you do, you will not be accepted by the Y&R viewing audience?

GINA:

Courtesy/CBS

I think it’s human nature to fulfill people’s expectations, but if you go too far in that direction in your mind, you are toast.  I am excited, but if turns too much to nerves, I watch that and keep an eye on that.  I will say; you need all the strength you can get for this role! (Laughs)

MICHAEL:

What happened when you met Y&R legend Eric Braeden (Victor) for the first time?

GINA:

I met him the other day, and he is like an icon!  And in that voice of his, he went, “It was so nice to meet you!” (Gina screams)  I said back to him, “You are so cool!”

MICHAEL:

And what are your thoughts on your on-screen nemesis Sharon Case (Sharon)?

GINA:

I love Sharon Case.  First of all, Sharon is the most beautiful girl ever.  I have not worked with her yet, but she gave me a hug, and I gave her a hug.

MICHAEL:

Courtesy/CBS

Who have you worked with thus far from the cast?

GINA:

Peter Bergman, Hunter King (Summer) who plays my daughter.  That girl is wicked talented.  I love her energy, and I was drawn to her right away.  Matt Atkinson, who has been great as Austin, the character of Dr. Cutler, and I have worked with Eric Braeden.  Victor came to visit Phyllis.

MICHAEL:

So here you are, two-time Daytime Emmy winner Gina Tognoni, and it’s your first day on set at Y&R, and your first scenes, and you have to pretend that you are in a coma! (Laughs) 

GINA:

My first scenes were me lying in a coma.  I kept thinking, “I hope my hair color is correct and I hope my eyes are not twitching,” and they were!  I got a note that I was twitching a little. (Laughs)  Must have been too much coffee! (Laughs)  But it was fine, and it is actually the best way to get to know somebody – to be able to be there and not talk, but to listen.  So that was all O.K.

MICHAEL:

So you obviously know the story, and there are major issues and bombshells surrounding Phyllis waking from her coma.  First on the list is revealing Sharon switched the paternity test, and Summer is Nick’s bio-daughter.  Please tell me, Phyllis is not going to wake up with amnesia?

GINA:

Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto

Well, you don’t know.  You don’t know what place Phyllis has gone to, and what she has seen while she was gone, and we don’t know what she has seen.

MICHAEL:

Well, knowing Phyllis she has probably got a few tricks up her sleeve!

GINA:

Yes.  I will tell you when you talk to anybody who has been in a coma, when they come back … they know they have come back.  They could have either passed on, or come back, and Phyllis is back and there is a reason she is coming back, and that intrigues me.  I think that is fabulous.  There are quite of bit of undercurrents going on here!

MICHAEL:

I think there is a huge revenge element in there, too!  After all, everyone else has moved on with their life, while she was stuck in this coma!

GINA:

Which is interesting, because now she has to get integrated back into her life.  So physically, where is she?  There are all of types of wonderful questions that come up for an actress: is she 100% strong?  So we are going to see a journey, and the audience is going to have to watch very closely, because it’s going to be subtle.  It has to be built brick by brick.

MICHAEL:

Which is so interesting, because Michelle Stafford’s new character on GH was in a coma for 20 years!  You two are the comatose twins!

GINA:

Courtesy/ABC

I love that, and I know!  It’s going to be like Frick and Frack, right?  It’s going to be … who was the best coma patient?  It’s very weird that we both have those storylines, but that’s also what is kind of cool about it.

MICHAEL:

So, as you know, fans were very worried about who was going to take over this role. They had seen so many of their favorites depart The Young and the Restless for one reason or the other over the last year and half, that they wanted to make sure that someone truly capable of performing this role got the job, in their opinion.  What has been the pulse you are getting from fans in their reaction to the news that you the new Phyllis?   On my site, it was extremely positive … which is a rarity these days! (Laughs)

GINA:

Honestly, the manifest I got was: “Oh, we are so happy.”  I know they were happy I was coming to the show.  Now, there will be no negativity! (Laughs)  I don’t want to hear it! (Laughs)  I am a very spiritual girl, so I would not have flown all the way here!  So we are going to embrace that.  When you take on a character, you take on a character, and then you open the door and trust, and have that responsibility.

MICHAEL:

OK, let’s get down to it.  Who do you want to have love scenes with?

GINA:

Courtesy/CBS

(Laughs)  I think I am in great hands with Peter Bergman, or Joshua Morrow!  And then Cady McClain (Kelly) and everyone else is going to hate me for it! (Laughs)

MICHAEL:

Do you know where the character of Phyllis is heading, let’s say, six months out from now?

GINA:

I do not know six months out.  I have never in my career on daytime known story six months out.  Let’s just say that I know there is quite a bit of conflict coming up with Sharon, and a lot of concern over Summer, and then Phyllis fighting her way back and being integrated again.  I know there will be specific things to accomplish for her!

MICHAEL:

Do you want Phyllis to have a knock down drag out catfight with Sharon?  I think many fans really want to see it!

GINA:

I think she needs to step in the ring with Sharon, but I think there needs to be a discussion!  (Laughs) And I think the fans will get plenty of that!

MICHAEL:

You know the entire back-story of the tumble down the stairs that Phyllis took in a confrontation with Sharon?

GINA:

Courtesy/CBS

Yes.  I knew Phyllis took a tumble. There is a debate whether she was thrown down the stairs, or if she fell down the stairs, or if Sharon pushed Phyllis down the stairs.  Of course, Phyllis will probably see it as Sharon pushed her down the stairs!  And, as I said, when people come back to life from this kind of situation they come back with a sense of purpose, and fans will see that.  That will be very clear.  She is back to establish relationships, make some relationships good, to get some clarity on things with Avery (Jessica Collins) and Kelly!  The thing is Jack seems quite happy right now with Kelly, and that relationship is going quite well, and the fans certainly like it.  However, Jack and Phyllis had a connection   He is in many ways Phyllis’ soul mate.  She has two soul mates, the other being Nick.

MICHAEL:

Nick is really Summer’s father.  What do you think will happen when Phyllis realizes this?  I think this will draw her back to Nick!

GINA:

Ideally, yes, in a perfect world.  I think Phyllis has a soft spot for sex with Nick! (Laughs) But also having that soft spot for everything with him … she wants it all.

MICHAEL:

Photo Credit: Sue Coflin/Max Photos

Fans have loved you from Guiding Light, and they have loved you from One Life to Live.  Both shows have now gone, for all intent and purpose, to soap heaven.  Can you share a few thoughts on your experience on Guiding Light?  You had left GL early before the show wrapped.

GINA:

What happened there was my contract was up, and it was time to go.  It was something when I look back at it that almost felt like I left the funeral early.  I wished I had stayed through to the end.  I loved my experience on Guiding Light.  It was amazing, and I loved playing Dinah.

MICHAEL:

Do you think the role of GL’s Dinah prepared you to be able to take on a role like Y&R’s Phyllis?

GINA:

Oh, yeah!  I am sure I will use a lot of strength and fire that we saw in Dina, and yet, Phyllis has a very different core.

MICHAEL:

On One Life to Live you came back to the role you originated of Kelly Cramer, and continued on shortly before the show went off the air.  Can you touch upon your feelings for the show that gave you your first soap break being canceled?

Courtesy/ABC

GINA:

My heart broke for that show.  It felt very unfair that it was canceled.  OLTL fans were so supportive and vocal about the show being canceled; you would think in these days that it would be enough to keep it on the air.  I think for the TV version, Frank Valentini (former EP OLTL, now EP GH) and Ron Carlivati (former head writer OLTL, now head writer GH) did a good job of wrapping it up.  It broke so many people’s hearts to take something off the air that meant a lot to so many.  I feel grateful to be on The Young and the Restless as there is an appreciation here for what we do.

MICHAEL:

What did you think about your final turn playing Kelly on One Life?

GINA:

I feel like Kelly’s storyline was stuck somewhere between first gear and neutral, but here at Y&R I feel thrilled to be working with all five gears with the Phyllis storyline. Case closed! (Laughs)

MICHAEL:

And now in another twist of irony, Michael Easton, your former love interest on OLTL, is now involved with former Genoa City Phyllis, Michelle Stafford, on General Hospital!

GINA:

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Damn him! Damn her!  (Laughs)

MICHAEL:

In closing Gina, what would you like to say to the fans … those that are in your corner, and those who may be your toughest critics, as you begin a new chapter in your soap life as Phyllis?

GINA:

I have so many people rooting for me that I do not take it for granted.  I love that, and I cherish that.  I promise, to the people that I have not won over yet, that I will work very hard to do that.  I will put my heart and soul into this, because I want to, and I have to, and I will do this character justice.  And you be nice!!!! (Laughs)  I plan to go for it with this role.  It’s going to be balls to the wall!

 

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Love Gina and cannot wait!! Loving Michelle as Nina too.

I LOVE GINA SHE IS MY FAVIRETE ACTRESS EVER SHE’S GOING TO DO GREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT

I hope Gina stays on the y and r for a long time.She is foxey

AWESOME INTERVIEW!!!! I am so excited that Gina is taking over the role of Phyllis Newman; I was a HUGE fan of her work as Dinah on GL.

Me too… I loved her on GL…. I was really upset when they said Phyllis was leaving the show…. but when I saw her on the other soap one day… Made me really mad she would leave the top Soap on tv to go there…. I am so excited for Nina to play this part now….

I am so looking forward to Gina’s take on Phyllis starting next Monday! It’s going to be fun to watch!

If this story plays out in real life (not reel life) I doubt Phyllis will remember anything before falling. After a severe head injury like that most cannot immediately remember what caused the accident, if they ever remember. I have never seen Gina in anything but will give her a go. I still can’t stand nu-nu-Billy. He has no chemistry with anyone. The other one who needs to go is Stalker Stitch. What a creep.

Stitch isnt a stalker, he is the good guy u will soon see. Burgess has great chemistry with Melissa who plays Chelsea. Gina is a terrific actress. Watch and learn.

I totally agree,can’t stand Stitch either.And we all know that in the soap world,they don’t always do what is reality. Phyliss could wake up and remember everything all at once.

Susan, I just call nu-nu-Billy, Old Bill now. Much more fitting for a man of his years.

It’s funny everyone mentions the new billy as being old.truth is he is younger then Victoria.He is 40,she is 41

The one character I REALLY want to see leave town — PERMANENTLY — is IAN WARD! He is Satan personified! I can’t STAND him! He totally creeps me out! I usually don’t support Victor’s schemes, but ANYTHING he can do toward accomplishing that goal is just FINE with me! I heard a suggestion that they should kill off Ian and there’d be a “Who Killed Ian?” storyline. I know that’s SO cliched, but there’d be plenty of suspects! Sounds good to me! :^)

You’re right, Susan. New nuBilly doesn’t have chemistry with anyone — I’m still getting used to him myself — but Burgess Jenkins is a good actor, and he’s DEFINITELY easy on the eyes! ;^))

Someone other than Michelle Stafford as Phyllis? Yeah, that’s going to take a LOT of getting used to. But, as for Gina Tognoni as nuPhyllis, I didn’t watch her other soap work on a regular basis, but from what little of it I HAVE seen, I know she’s good, and if we give her even half a chance, I think Gina will make the part her own. We’ve had to get used to a nuPhyllis before, years ago. Remember Sandra Nelson, anyone? :^)

While I found her boring on OLTL I will give her a chance. My fear is that, like with many recasts, the actor attempts to make the character “their own” and suddenly the character you’ve known and loved is a virtual stranger. Presently I don’t know who this Billy is. But he’s not the Billy I’ve enjoyed for years (even with David Tom).

I haven’t seen Gina’s acting before, but unlike other recasts, Gina sounds like she “gets” what Phyllis is about. She seems to value what this character’s past brings to her future. While I’m sure the character might change a bit over time as she continues in the role, this interview goes a long way toward making me feel excited and hopeful that this is going to be a perfect recast (and I agree that it’s time to rest the role of Billy). Good luck and welcome, Gina!

I agree with recasting Billy. David Tom would have been good if they had given him time to settle back into the role. Billy Miller is going to be the new Jason on GH. Michelle Stafford and Billy Miller to GH. JFP killer of soaps, is doing her job. T he only story that interest me now is Nick, Sharon and Mariah. I love Joshua Morrow. His smile lights up the screen. Sad to see what was once a great soap decline in ratings. While they boast they are #1 this is true. But, there are only 4 soaps left.

This newnuBilly seems to me is actually oooooollllllllddddddddBilly. In that he’s been SORAS’d like 25 years! Its like having Peter Bergman playing the part of Billy, but without the good acting. Don’t like this version of Billy at all. Maybe now we should call him Old Bill. He and Victor can get together and tell Victoria how to run her life. They’ll finally have something in common.

(For the record, I really don’t blame the actor. I blame casting, writing and production for this debacle. I thought David Tom was warming back into the role and doing fine.)

I hate David Thom as Billy! So glad they recast that role. He just didn’t work. The new ( old) Billy is o.k. but they could have done a better pick. Also don’t like Gina Tognoni as Phyllis but I’ll keep an open mind and we’ll see what happens.

I disagree about Burgess Jenkins. For a former prime-time actor I’m astounded that his acting skills are so poor.

LOVE her from OLTL. I don’t watch Y&R, but will check it out now.

I love Gina, and will be delighted to see her again. GL was my favorite soap for years.

There’s no doubt she has the acting chops to portray Phyllis.

Lovely Lady! I really wondered about her age but with the new hair cut and PB looks dam good for 60 she will probably make it work. She has a couple of things working for her that Maura West did not playing the Dianne character she is not having to play a love interest for Victor/EB because he is 30 years her senior and they will not be showing Daniel so she does not have to deal with that issue. Wish her the best I just hope they do not waste her talent and throw her with Dylan. Let’s be honest JFP loves to have SB in every storyline.

Gina Tognoni is not 60! Who are you talking about?

@Kathleen PB stands for Peter Bergman/Jack he just turned 61 I think. Sorry I confused you Gina is only 40 and I was concerned she was going to look to young next to Peter Bergman/Jack.

I loved her on G&L. Looking forward to supporting her . I am a Phick fan and can’t wait to see what happens! go Gina.

she is amaaaazing! thrilled about this and pumped to see her on Y&R. Phyllis can’t wake up soon enough!

I loved Gina when she played Dinah on GL…..and will enjoy seeing her as Phyliss,never really liked Michele Stafford that much anyway…so I am glad for the change.

ME TOO!!!!

Me THREE! Never liked MS; loved Gina as Dinah. She’s gonna kill it!!!

I remember Robin Stasser so annoying as Christina Karas on All My Children but she was totally transformed and hit the ground running as One Life’s Dorian. My instincts tell me that although Gina’s Kelly Kramer was ehh (sorry) she has “grown up good,” indeed and is gonna kick a… and take names on Y & R…this is her time!

Her stint on Dinah on Guiding Light worked so well, I hope she channels Dinah during her portrayal.

I can’t wait for her to debut as Phyllis. She is an amazing actress. I loved her as Dinah on GL.

Did not care for MS, did not like her acting. Welcome Gina, nice to see the change.. That being said U better take it easy on Sharon or she will kick your ass!! LOL

as if…

I was a fan of MS as Phyllis. That said, she was really phoning it in for a long time and I welcome the change. I think Gina will be great. (I’m a Sharon fan too)

I love this interview, and absolutely adore Gina. Her being cast as Phyllis on The Young and the Restless is going to be good; while she wasn’t my top choice of actress (Sarah Joy Brown was), I have a strong feeling she’s going to really connect with the audiences and her fellow cast mates. I hope the drive of Phyllis returns; during Michelle’s final years the fire of Phyllis kind of disappeared. I’m excited about her joining, from the video of her and Joshua and Hunter, there seems to be a great familiar connection there. Gina and Hunter even look like mother and daughter, so this casting could work out so well. I miss Dinah, though! She was great!

Another great interview. Loved her as Kelly on OLTL. She can really generate great chemistry with both male and female cast members, so I don’t think fans will be disappointed. It’s always hard when you are in placed in the role as a recast of a classic soap role, such as Phyllis. I am really looking forward to having Phyllis back in G.C. and I think Gina T will be awesome.

Break a leg, Gina!

I think Gina is a perfect fit to replace Michelle. I loved her on Guiding Light and she played a great role in Guiding LIght. Congats Gina wake up soon as we have missed you. You will be accepted as the Y&R fans don’t worry about that. I only watch CBS Soaps so get out of that coma and start some trouble Y&R needs it. Good Luck!

I feel like Gina will fit in well. As for the Billy character…David Tom was much too young for the mature “Billy.” The current actor is better, but certainly hasn’t successfully “replaced” Billy Miller. Maybe “resting” the role is called for while they search for a more acceptable actor and at the same time perhaps have something happen to “Billy” that changes his personae before he comes back to Genoa City. If Josua Morrow ever leaves we are in deep trouble….same sort of charismatic actor as Billy Miller but more so.

So happy that she will be playing the new Phyllis. I remember when she was Dinah on GL. Ooh yes, they have the right one. It’s on now!!!! Welcome Gina!

Glad you are back have watched O.L.T.L. for over 20 years and Young and Restless longer. My mom and dad had watched it before me. Good Luck you will be put in the line of fire.

Being a 20 year fan of Y&R it’s always hard when someone leaves or is replaced . It’s takes time to think of them as That Person they’ve replaced. I’ve seen 3 Billy’s in this time and you just go along with the story line. It took me awhile for me to get to like the Phillis character but when I finally loved her, she went into a coma . Now another persons coming in. It’s like trying to replace Edith Bonker. That person was the character ….. And that’s how I feel about the people on Y&R. You could never replace Victor or Nicki, it just wouldn’t work. I’m sure we’ll adapt to this new woman replacing Michelle and appreciate her acting talents as much as we appreciated Michelle’s talents. Good luck Y&R.

Gina really did do a great job on GL as Dinah. I totally feel she will ROCK this character on Y&R.
On another note, I had heard a rumor that Stitch and Kelly’s mom actually set their dad on fire and Stitch took the blame and confessed to protect their mom. And nobody not even Kelly knows, and that is why she is so mad that their mother took Stitch’s side and supported him, just a rumor though.

ITS DEFINITELY GOING TO GET STEAMY QUICKLY IM GUESSING WITH THE SUMMER PATERNITY COMING OUT….GOOD LUCK GINA

I loved Guiding Light and loved watching Gina on that show! She is one of my absolute favorite soap actresses! I am a die hard fan of Y & R too and have always love Michelle Stafford. I was sad that she left the show, but when I found out who they case new in the role, I was so happy! I knew Phyllis would be back, better than ever, and I was ecstatic that I would get to see Gina’s work again! Y & R hit a home run here and I call it early: Gina will win another daytime emmy!

i am willing to give you a chance but RED left some mighty big shoes to fill. And Please make your hair the same shade of red. Thanks. and good luck.

Yes her hair needs to be redder!

Teri

This new Billy is a horrible choice! He’s waaaay too old looking and he is a terrible actor. Nobody can sufficiently replace sunnyboy Billy Miller!

Blech!

What happened when you met Y&R legend Eric Braeden (Victor) for the first time?

GINA:

I met him the other day, and he is like an icon! And in that voice of his, he went, “It was so nice to meet you!” (Gina screams) I said back to him, “You are so cool!”

honestly

seriously

???

hold on… this is the truth

Victor needs to go

if so much at Y&R is new…. to hold on to Victor has no resonance…. no reason… dull

MTS’ Nikki…needs to celebrate and MOVE

if it’s with Meredith Baxter Burney… then so be it… a one upsmanship… womanhood… would hold

that last picture… in the red dress

is fire : comeuppance : fearful… : lasting

go their

Patrick so glad to see a post from you I was beginning to think something had happen to you. Concerning Eric Braeden maybe he will remember her name in 10 years. I believe he said that is how long it takes for him to recall your name.

Great recast. Gina you’re perfect for this role. I loved Dinah! Good luck to you. As far as the new/ old Billy is concerned, people need to lighten up. Billy Miller moved on. So should Y&R. Yes he was special, but give this one a chance. So he’s stoic and not at all silly, but what’s going on in the story doesn’t call for comedy either. I wish you both Blessed long lived success.

Welcome Gina! I have watched Y&R since the beginning and I think you will fill MS’s shoe’s nicely. I can’t wait to see where the story goes! I just heard that Michael Muhney wrapped up the movie he was filming a couple of days ago, so I have a feeling Phyllis coming out of the coma is going to affect Adam’s storyline as well. I think once Phyllis reveals that Sharon changed the paternity test results, Summer is not going to be able to handle the stress of her life being turned upside down yet again and will take off. Once Heather King is gone from the show, I think they can bring Michael Muhney back as Adam (even though MM’s mother denies this is so). I predict that Chelsea will haved moved on with Billy, Nick and Sharon will break up because of what Sharon did, and Adam will get back together with Sharon when Chelsea rebuffs him for faking his death and spying on her. Whatever happens, it’s going to be good. I know many fans will disagree with me, but I am actually enjoying the storylines on this show for the first time in years. I think JFP has a lot of surprises in store for us over the next year or so.

I am so so excited to see Gina take on this role. I have never even seen her work before. But this interview was like looking at cookies and cakes through the window of a bakery. I can hardly wait for her to bring Phyllis’s character back to us.

Gina has big shoes to fill, but I think she’s up for it. I’m just glad Phyllis is finally waking up, I miss her. My only thought is, maybe her hair could be a bit more on the red side. Good luck!

Phyllis’ hair wasn’t exactly red when she slipped into a coma, though. So they probably are keeping it a darker hue right now to keep something the same.

NO ONE can take Michelle Staffords place, just like no one can take Billy Millers place!!!!!! I’ve been watching for 40 years, I saw the first show! Some people you can’t replace and they are the ORIGINALS, Victor, Nicky, Catherine ( deceased), Paul, Lauren, Jill, Michael, Nicholas, and BILLY AND PHYLLIS.
You are making a big mistake!
If the cast doesn’t get better than this Billy, get Adam back, get the real Phyllis back and Billy Miller I’m afraid your #1 spot will fall!

I don’t think “Y&R” has to worry about losing its #1 status. I’m gradually warming up to Burgess Jenkins’s Billy, although I don’t think he’ll ever completely replace Billy Miller.

Another actress playing Phyllis? Yeah, I know it’s going to take some getting used to, but if any actress can do it, I think it’s G.T.

BTW, Jess Walton is NOT the original Jill, she’s a recast, but she IS the best. I remember when she first came into the role I took to her immediately, and I don’t think I’d ever done that with a recast before.

This Jack is not the original Jack either but he’s been there so long now he cannot be replaced. ☺️
It will be very hard to replace Phyllis but I guess we’ll see.
This Billy just doesn’t fit the bill, no pun intended. Billy Miller had it all, looks, personality, charisma. This guy does not ,nor did David Tom even tho he use to be Billy! Billy Miller is just awesome.
MM wasn’t the original Adam either but did fit the part sooooo well! Hard to see someone else being Adam. Good looks was not what Adam was about, it’s his mannerisms that made him Adam. The jury is still out on this guy. We’ll see. ☺️
I love Y&R, just not happy with all these changes! Love Shemar coming back, the other Malcolm just was no Shemar!!!.,!

Shemar Moore is coming back? Nice thought, but I doubt it. He’s still on “Criminal Minds.” Besides, why would he ever go back to daytime when he’s been in primetime for so long, now. That’d be like going back to dial-up when you’ve had broadband! :^)

I’ve watched GL’s Gina Tognoni as “Dinah,” and she truly made the show! The 2 Daytime Emmies she has won are a small example of Gina’s depth of character! I watched GL from 1979-the very end, and Gina was def one of the most exciting actresses I’ve ever seen,& she was a recast back then as “Dinah,” and she cleaned the floor (so to speak) of the former actress who played Dina,so well that whenever “Dinah Marler,” is spoken of -it’s with Gina’s name! She will rock this role! To those that don’t know her yet-give her a chance, cuz she will make heads role! I’ve never been into the Y&R, but I will start watching 8/11, just to see Gina’s acting once again! Truly amazing! Go Gina T!

I hated to see Michelle go but if anyone can do great as a recast its Gina. She is

an awesome actress and certainly seems to know Phyllis. Hope everyone gives her a shot.As for new billy. David toms was better than him tooo old looking for part. They will never sucessfully replace billy or micheal(adam)…….

She could be a good fit as phyllis time will tell but for the billy recast they should have write him off since billy miller left the series. I am willing to give her a chance in playing phyllis as she can.

I was also devastated when Michelle left, and I was disappointed that she signed on with a show that isn’t on Y&R’s level of excellence, for an invented role that was pushed on the GH audience. However, just like with Billy Miller, leaving was Michelle’s choice. Longtime viewers like me will remember that there was chaos in the late 80’s when Brenda Dickson was fired and Terry Lester left. Both Jess Walton and Peter Bergman took over the respective roles and they were quick hits with the audience and critics. Even on GH, Laura Wright was able to make lightning strike 3 times with Carly. SO recasts can be successful, even with the most iconic of roles. This happens when the decision makers understand the importance of the role when making casting decisions and when the new actor truly understands the core and motivations of the character. That said, Gina was the obvious choice under everyone’s nose, and Y&R did this one right. How can I say this without seeing the first airing of Gina as Phyllis? Because Gina is a proven professional actress with a track record of excellence. That is why I believe most of the audience is going to give her a chance (why they couldn’t do that for David Tom, I will never understand or forgive). Phyllis is arguably the most important character on daytime in the new century, and Michelle was the most recent reigning star of Y&R, even adorning every day’s opening credits as the lady in black. Y&R got this one right.

I agree with everything you said. David Tom may look to young, but he was familiar and I enjoyed seeing him on screen. This guy is too old to be Billy. No question about that. People who are long time viewers know that Billy is supposed to be younger than Victoria. He was a mid-life birth to Jill and John. I have to use my FF button everytime this NuBilly is on screen. I cannot stand to look at him. He does not look the part. He may have some chemistry with MCE, but he has none with the Abbotts who are supposed to be his family. No offense to the actor, but he is not right fo the part period! This guy looks almost older than PB. I loved Gina T. on GL. She is the perfect choice for this role. She is beautiful talented and will bring the rain when it comes to Phyllis Newman!!! JMHO!

I am so glad Phyllis is coming back she put the fire in the show an i think they need to offer the old Billy more money an let him come back he was amazing .

Am looking forward to Gina T as Phyllis; I think she has what it takes to make the role her own… and the latest Billy is more enjoyable than David Tom (and I’m surprised that I feel that way, but David T was ‘colorless’ as Billy after Billy Miller ‘made’ Billy Abbott ‘his’ character); just sayin’!! Looking forward to lots of Phyllis intrigue… and what are they doing to make Neil a ‘wimp’ and marrying the chick who is HOT for Devon (Brytan)?? I’m sorry to see Devon falling in lust with her, she is so memorable that I can’t remember her characters name. I’m surprised that Cane cut off Lily at the knees regarding the chick… oh well, guess Neil’s comments shook him up!!! Lily is ticked of at his letting her down; better look out Cane!!

I know Gina is going to kill it as Phyllis. If you saw how she played Dinah on Guiding Light then you know she has the look and the chops to play Phyllis. Amazing casting choice there Y&R!

Have been a fan of Ms. Tognoni’s since she first played Kelly on OLTL. Thought she was good in that role but outstanding as Dinah on GL. I have no doubt she will portray Phyllis with the same intensity and talent she has brought to her previous roles. She might, just maybe, convince me to tune in to Y&R again. I only hope they write for her and not make a mess out of Phyllis like they have for everyone else.

I watched a few minutes of the show last week and was as unimpressed with it as I had been 9 months ago when I tuned out. The Neil/Devon/Hillary story is nothing special, Dylan throwing furniture around a snore, and Summer and her criminal husband…please.

Chaz…VERY EXCELLENT POST!!!!! While I agree with everything you said, I would like to throw in my 2 cents and all. Like…

1. I (also) have been a fan of Gina Tognoni ever since her OLTL days. Furthermore, I am already ROOTING FOR GT to make the role of Phyllis her own. Y-A-Y GINA!!!!!
2. Chaz…RIGHT ON about that Devon/Hilary/Neil SNOOZE-FEST!!!!! Furthermore, that LOOSE CANNON Lily WORKS MY NERVES THE MOST!!!!! S-H-U-D-D-E-R!!!!!
3. Character-wise, The Incredible Hulk (to me) was WAY MORE BELIEVABLE AND DIMENSIONAL than that WALKING STIFF Dylan…LOL!!!!! Yep.
4. If Y&R is actually trying to redeem that Austin dude, then they should hook Austin up with someone else. And…preferably with a chick who is WAY MORE MATURE than that stupid and sniveling Summer. Summer=ANOTHER ONE THAT WORKS MY NERVES W-A-Y TOO MUCH!!!!! Stupid-ass chick.

Chaz…thanks for listening.

A-C-E-S!!!!!

With Y&R stumbling on Billy and Adam, I think they got this right. She and Michelle could be sisters and it sounds like Gina will incorporate the character and put her on mark on it.

I love that you all chose Gina. I have missed her acting since her days with Guiding Light. I met her at King Dominion in Virginia quite a few years ago… I think she is the perfect pick for Phyllis. Can’t wait to have her wake up and act.

Gina will do a very good job on young and reckless, I have watched her on guiding light and one life to live, she is wonderful.

I miss Guiding Light (before all of the cost-savings measures took place). I used to watch the show when on school vacation, when it was on at 10:00 a.m. EST. I was sad when the show ended. I watched the last week of the show and thought the writers did a good job at wrapping up the family arcs, storylines, and bringing back veteran actors. I’ve always liked Gina. I remember when she began on OLTL. The best of luck to her.

Gina will do a great job and put her own magic on portraying Phyllis.

Gina is great as Phyllis. Whose coat was she wearing on today’s episode. I want it. Oct 22 2014 please respond. Thankyou

Love the new Phyllis…I mean like, Michelle who????…For me its Gina all the way for Phyllis…Personally I would like to see a Phyllis/Sharon hookup…the animosity they have towards one another..lets just say that if one of them was a man…they woulda slpet together a long time ago….LOL!…Like Gina said Sharon Case is a beautiful woman and so is Gina!!..So really lets get that ball rolling…Nick and Jack can go sulk in a corner…who cares…

I had to watch for a few weeks to see how Gina is as the new Phyllis and she is great. Really connected with her . Keep up the good work. What took you so long Y&R to put her in that character?

Gina is perfect for this role, do not get rid of her.

Gina Tognoni YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Interviews

The Young and the Restless’ Michael Damian On Christine/Danny/Phyllis: “It’s a Fun Triangle Story That They’re Having Us Do, Because It’s Very Retro”

This week on The Young and the Restless, while Danny (Michael Damian) and Christine (Lauralee Bell) hit the sheets, and Phyllis (Michele Stafford) sets off an alarm as payback (literally!), the top-rated CBS soap opera continues to weave the tale of these three characters decades later, finding themselves in very familiar territory with each other.

We know that Christine and Phyllis are basically, mortal enemies, while Danny, who has been the man in the middle, has had a past with both women. However, it is Christine who has been, for all intent and purposes the love of his life.  But, will Phyllis’ machinations make it near to impossible for Danny and Christine to be together? Stay tuned.

Last week, Michael and his real-life wife, Janeen Damian visited the Michael Fairman Channel promoting their #1 streaming film on Netflix, Irish Wish starring Lindsay Lohan. The film was produced by the Damians, while Janeen directed it and co-wrote the romantic story. Michael is featured on the Irish Wish soundtrack performing his track, Wild Irish Heart.

Photo: Netflix

During the conversation, Michael shared what it has been like revisiting the Christine/Danny/Phyllis triangle years later. Damian addressed the fans on the livestream, who inquired. “It’s a fun triangle story that they’re having us do, because it’s very retro. And I think it’s fun to bring that nostalgia, retro thing back.”

Photo: JPI

Recalling a tender moment between Danny on the piano alone with Christine (during the standalone episode which honored Lauralee Bell’s 40th anniversary with Y&R), Michael expressed, “I think what they’re doing is so smart, and they’re reconnecting a lot of the fans to a lot of the story. I mean, we’re talking years and years of story.”

Photo: JPI

The longtime Y&R fan favorite, added, “I’m really glad they did the thing on the piano because people have been asking, ‘Why are you not doing any music? Why are you not singing? Where’s your band?’ You know what I mean? Janeen is asking the same thing, ‘Why aren’t you singing something on the show?’ The last time I sang on the show was when we thought Phyllis was dead. So, you know, that didn’t count. (Laughs)

One of the funniest moment in the revisiting of the triangle occurred when Phyllis and Christine were arguing over Danny, and he was right there in the room with them. The two women got so engrossed in their fight, they forgot he was there, and thus he walked out of the room.

Photo: JPI

Michael revealed, he liked that scene too! “They’re fighting. They’re arguing and Danny’s like, ‘Listen, I’m over here. Please stop it.” And then they don’t stop,” Damian recalled. “And so Danny just grabs his coat, picks up his sheet music, because he was working on a song. He goes to the door. In the scene, I even look back to see if they are even noticing me leave, and then I just left. That one was pretty funny. I’ll be honest. I was laughing out in the hallway when I left. I was thinking, ‘Should I slam the door? But then if I slam the door, they still have dialogue.’ They’re still talking and they would’ve turned, and then it would’ve ruined it. So, I just gently closed the door and left.

Photo: JPI

During the livestream, Damian teased he has some upcoming scenes with longtime Y&R co-star Beth Maitland (Traci), “I just worked with Beth Maitland actually the other day, and that was really fun. I can’t wait for people to see that show.”

Check out the the Michael Fairman Channel chat with Michael and Janeen Damian below.

Now, let us know, are you rooting for Danny and Christine? Do you think Phyllis will continue to be a disruptor in this relationship and somehow worm her way back into Dannys good graces? Share your thoughts in the comment section. But first check out this sneak peek for this week’s Y&R featuring the trio.

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Days Of Our Lives

Days of our Lives Star Blake Berris Chats On the Everett Lynch/Bobby Stein Mystery, Working with His New Co-Stars, and the Last Christmas Episode with Bill Hayes

On Days of our Lives, the return of Blake Berris is making for some very intriguing drama, with the audience guessing just which way the story will go.

When Berris arrived back on Days of our Lives, after previously playing Nick Fallon, he was taking on the new role of Everett Lynch, who has a past with Stephanie Johnson (Abigail Klein) and Jada Hunter (Elia Cantu). Only, as it has been revealed, the past he had with Jada was under the name “Bobby Stein,” who from what we can tell was far from a nice guy.

Blake visited the Michael Fairman Channel for a livestream interview this week, where fans in the live chat were weighing-on what could be the truth about the guy – is he a split personality suffering from Dissociative Identity Disorder? Did the accident that cost him a year of his life in a coma, never happen? Recently, someone set fire to the beloved Horton house. Fans are suspecting it would have been “Bobby” who is working for Clyde Weston (James Read). Others believe that Everett/Bobby could actually be Clyde’s son. With upcoming therapy sessions with Dr. Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) about to start, things are about to get more juicy in Salem.

Photo: JPI

Here are just a few excerpts from our conversation with Blake on a myriad of Everett/Bobby subjects. Make sure to check out the full interview for more.

Did you know that they were going to make Everett Lynch a Jewish character? This is only the second time in the history of the show that they have even had a Jewish character on the canvas. Didn’t they reveal this at the Horton family Christmas episode?

BLAKE: No, they never asked me. I am half-Jewish on my dad’s side. There was never like, ‘You’re Jewish, right? We can call you Jewish on the show?’ At the Horton Christmas, “They made a real point of it, yeah.”

And now the new ‘character’ is “Bobby Stein” …

BLAKE: “Right, and that suggests more Jewish, and then Lynch must be coming from somewhere else, maybe the mother. I was so curious because I think the show has been historically, I’m gonna say, Catholic more than like Wasps. With the Bradys there’s this sort of Irish influence, and then the DiMeras, that’s Italian. So, we’ve got Catholics sort of on both sides that are dominant. Now I, “represent”.

Photo: JPI

What has it been like working with Abigail Klein?

BLAKE: I think she is extraordinary. We start off sort of frosty, or she’s frosty with me, like she doesn’t want to let me in. And then, for a while things are going really well. I just could not adore Abigail more. She’s such a good actor. I could always rely on her to bring me back into a scene and be there in this emotionally, supportive way.

Photo: JPI

Everett and Chad seemed to be becoming friend-ish, when all went awry when at the PCPD interrogation room, Everett let him know about Elia and Bobby Stein, and Chad let him have it for worming his way back in to Stephanie’s life.

BLAKE: Billy would call us the ‘disgusting brothers’ and that’s a reference from Succession, because all of a sudden they’re just so chummy with each other. It’s like all of a sudden we just had this like ‘Bernstein and Woodward’, sort of dynamic duo. I think that Everett really started to think of Chad as a friend and feels sort of disappointed, and he feels, “Oh, it’s that easy? I just needed to have some other identity and now you’re a fair-weather friend?”‘

Photo: JPI

In recent scenes, Jada sees Bobby Stein for the first time, and we see you and Elia Cantu share scenes with each other for the first time. What is it like working with Elia?

BLAKE: She’s fire, man. She comes in hot and she tells you the way it’s going to be. I think early on, we were trying to suss each other out and the more we worked together, the more comfortable you get with somebody. I think actors do this sometimes with each other; if there’s spice on screen, you like to keep some of what you have on-screen in your (real-life) interactions because it helps … it helps the work.  Eventually, we just sort of wore each other down and we’re like, ‘I actually totally get you, and you’re great.'”

Did you know that they were going to make Everett Lynch a Jewish character? This is only the second time in the history of the show that they have even had a Jewish character and didn’t they reveal this at the Horton family Christmas episode?

BLAKE: No, they never asked me. I am half-Jewish on my dad’s side. There was never like, ‘You’re Jewish, right? We can call you Jewish on the show?’ At the Horton Christmas, “They made a real point of it, yeah.”

And now the new ‘character’ is “Bobby Stein” …

BLAKE: “Right, and that suggests more Jewish, and then Lynch must be coming from somewhere else, maybe the mother. I was so curious because I think the show has been historically, I’m gonna say, Catholic more than like Wasps. With the Bradys there’s this sort of Irish influence, and then the DiMeras, that’s Italian. So we’ve got Catholics sort of on both sides that are dominant. Now I, “represent”.

Photo: JPI

You were on set and in the annual Horton Christmas episode which sadly marked the last for Days of our Lives legendary Bill Hayes, who passed away in January of this year.  What do you recall of that tape day?

BLAKE: It was the Christmas episode when we were watching Susan (Julie) and Bill, say ‘Merry Christmas.’  And there was something about it that just felt like it could be the last time. I mean, it wrecked us all on set. Bill gets so choked up and there was something really profound about the moment. They kiss each other as they have so many times before on the show. It was just beautiful. It felt beautiful to be there for that last Christmas. He’s just such an icon. Every time I’d see him, he was so with it … he knew my name, he knew his lines. What an incredible, incredible man.

Photo: JPI

Fans will get to see Everett in therapy sessions with Dr. Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall)? Would you say she is helping the guy?

BLAKE: Deidre’s always making jokes about Marlena, ‘She’s the worst therapist in the world’ (Laughs) I remember in the first therapy session, we almost couldn’t get through the scenes because it’s just so clear that Everett has a litany of very profound psychological issues that he is going to have to work through. He’ll keep coming back. This guy’s gonna pay the bills!

Photo: JPI

Viewers are waiting to see how they mystery of Everett Lynch/Bobby Stein plays out. What can you say as a tease for what’s to come?

BLAKE: As far as a tease, I would say, you have all these characters sort of, trying to wake up the ‘sleeping giant’ in a way. I think it’s safe to say that like if you poke a bear, the bear might wake up.

Watch the livestream chat with Blake in full below.

Now let us know, what do you think is going with Everett/Bobby? What has happened to him in his past? Share your theories in the comment section below, and make sure to catch Days of our Lives next week on Peacock for more to his story.

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Interviews

Y&R’s Melody Thomas Scott Talks on 45 Years as Nikki Newman, the Keys to Playing Drunk, And Those Genoa City Relationships

February is ‘Nikki Newman Month’ in soapland as the The Young and the Restless iconic Melody Thomas Scott celebrates her 45th anniversary in her leading role.

My how time flies! Nikki has had numerous marriages, and some to the same man, battled her addiction to alcohol too many times to count (and we loved it all), and faced so much heartache in the process.

Currently, on all-new episodes of the top-rated CBS daytime drama series, Nikki can’t quite get a grip as Jordan (Colleen Zenk) is out there and in the middle of her next master plot to make Nikki suffer, all the while Nikki is drinking again. Thanks to the heinous plot concocted by Jordan and Claire (Hayley Erin) that revealed itself last November.

Photo: JPI

In a special conversation for You Tube’s Michael Fairman Channel, Melody shared her thoughts on a myriad of subjects including: her current story, those long tape days at Victor and Nikki’s weddings, why she plays drunk better than anyone on television, plus we take a mini-deep dive into Nikki’s past.

Y&R fans were stunned when the powers-that-be had Nikki kidnapped and then hooked her up to an IV of booze. Just how much did Melody know of the story going in? She elaborated, “I knew Nikki would be terrorized. That’s all that I knew. I thought that sounded like great fun. I didn’t know for a little bit that she was going to fall off the wagon in the process of it. And then when I heard how it would happen, I was thrilled to bits. I did kind of want to have a little leader (or crawl) down at the bottom of the screen saying, ‘Hey, people don’t put an IV with vodka in your arm because that will kill you.’ But, poetic license, I suppose.”

Photo: JPI

Melody also weighed-in on if she thinks Nikki will stop drinking anytime soon, expressing, “She just can’t get out of this. Then of course, Jordan’s not letting her out very easily. Just when Nikki thinks she is mentally strong enough to never take another drink, well, of course she does, because something else happens. I think it’s also a learning point for people who are watching the show who may have an addiction problem. Now, I could be wrong, but I think it’d be highly unusual for somebody to be just mentally strong to be able to stop.”

If you wondered if Melody enjoys playing a drunk Nikki, look no more, “I do. That’s simply for selfish reasons,” she shared. “That’s for my enjoyment. I take great pleasure in it. It’s fun for me, and just the process of pretending to be drunk. I love the end result. I try not to do too much because there’s nothing worse when an actor is overplaying drunk. So you have to kind of keep it a little bit underneath (the surface). However, sometimes because of Jordan, Nikki does get much sloppier than I normally would play it.”

Photo: JPI

In recent episodes, it seems that Jack (Peter Bergman) and Nikki are gravitating more to each other, as both are drawn together through their shared experiences with addiction. Victor (Eric Braeden) is not happy that his arch-nemesis is helping Nikki try to stay sober. Could Melody see Jack and Nikki becoming romantic again? “I love Peter. I mean, Peter was my second favorite husband on Y&R. It would be wonderful, but I don’t know if the fans would go for that,” she explained. “They’re so invested in Niktor that I think they would really be upset about that unless Victor did something really crummy, then I could buy that.”

Photo: JPI

One of the more ‘out there’ stories during Melody’s 45-year run, was when Nikki was paired with Crazy Edward, and he took her home to meet his mother … who was in an urn! You would think maybe Melody didn’t like the story .. but think again! “Bill Bell (co-creator, Y&R) was writing the show in those days, and Bill kept that information pretty tight. I don’t remember us knowing even a week in advance. Maybe, we would get our scripts, three or four days in advance and that was it. You knew nothing about future story, but I loved the story,” she raved. “It was almost Hitchcockian, shall we say. The actor who played Crazy Edward, Paul Tulley was so magnificent and such a sweetheart. We loved working with each other so much, but man, when that red light came on the camera, he scared the you-know-what out of me. He was absolutely terrifying. But then, the minute the scene was over, we’re fooling around and laughing and everything. He was so good. So good!”

Photo: JPI

According to Melody, the pairing of Victor and Nikki was not something she, nor Eric Braeden, initially thought would made sense: “I was a little terrified when I heard that he and I would be doing scenes. I thought, ‘What, what?’ He also wondered, ‘What am I going to be doing working with that young kid, that snotty kid?’ We had no idea what Bill Bell saw. He had a vision with us and somehow knew that we would have chemistry. It didn’t take Bill long to show us in the scripts why he put us together. Then, we started to see it. Although, it was hard to imagine at first, certainly we knew it worked by the time Nikki had baby number one during the ‘Who’s the father?’ storyline. Nikki and Victor weren’t even married yet. So, we did figure it out pretty early on.”

Photo: JPI

From her early years as Nikki Reed, Melody reflected back on some major story points in her character’s history, relating, “I actually did like her in the very beginning when she was just a little brat living with her sister and her father, who of course ended up trying to rape her…  and she had hit him over the head with a lamp … and he died. I did not care for the stripping storyline at all. Only because I knew that I didn’t have the natural dancing ability. I wasn’t fluid enough to really look good up there stripping. I know they hired wonderful choreographers and everything for me, but I just didn’t feel worthy of being up there … I guess is what it was. Of course, now I look back on it and I think, ‘Oh, I guess it wasn’t too bad.’ Later, there was a strip she did in the Colonnade Room. At the time, she was married to Jack. Victor’s sitting there with some other woman and she’s drunk. I saw that scene recently, and I thought it was great. I didn’t at the time, but looking back, I thought, ‘Wow, that was good.'”

Photo: CBS

Watch the full 45th anniversary conversation with Melody below.

Now let us know, are you enjoying Nikki being back on the bottle? Would you want to see Jack and Nikki try their relationship one more time? What has been your favorite storyline of Melody’s over the last 45 years on Y&R.  Let us know in the comment section.

 

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