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Y&R’s 50th Anniversary Party (Photos)
It was a night to remember and quite the spectacular event, when CBS, Sony Pictures Televisions, and The Young and the Restless, celebrated in style the iconic soap opera’s 50th anniversary.
Over the weekend on Friday, March 17th, cast, crew, colleagues, families, and the press gathered to salute the series at the The Vibiana, a beautiful venue in downtown Los Angeles that used to be a cathedral now turned event space.
Photo: CBS
After many of the stars in attendance walked the red carpet and conducted interviews with the press, the crowd gathered inside for a very special presentation featuring several speakers, and emceed by Peter Bergman (Jack Abbott).
During the speeches, none was more touching than when Lauralee Bell (Christine, Y&R) was joined by her brother Bradley P. Bell (executive producer and head writer of B&B) and in remarks, honored their late parents William J. Bell and Lee Phillip Bell, the creators of The Young and the Restless.
Photo: CBS
CBS Entertainment President, Amy Reisenbach, Sony’s Steve Kent, and Y&R’s legendary stars, Eric Braeden (Victor) and Melody Thomas Scott (Nikki) also spoke and shared their thoughts on this milestone and more.
Attending were nearly 60 current and former cast members to commemorate Y&R’s golden anniversary, including: Linden Ashby, Catherine Bach, Peter Barton, Jaime Lyn Bauer, Lauralee Bell, Peter Bergman, Eric Braeden, Tracey Bregman, Lily Brooks O’Briant, Kimberlin Brown, Sean Carrigan, Sharon Case, Tricia Cast, Judith Chapman, Tamara Clatterbuck, Angell Conwell, Michael Corbett, Barbara Crampton, Michael Damian, Sean Dominic, Melissa Claire Egan, Cait Fairbanks, Conner Floyd, Adrienne Frantz, Jacob Aaron Gaines, Jennifer Gareis, Rory Gibson, Michael Graziadei, Camryn Grimes, Mark Grossman, Tom Hallick, Elizabeth Hendrickson, Courtney Hope, James Hyde, Bryton James, Sean Kanan, Kelly Kruger, Ashley Jones, Christel Khalil, Katherine Kelly Lang, Christian Le Blanc, Roberta Leighton, Kate Linder, Loren Lott, Janice Lynde, Judah Mackey, Beth Maitland, John McCook, Phil Morris, John O’Hurley, Melissa Ordway, Robert Parucha, J. Eddie Peck, Scott Reeves, Veronica Redd, Victoria Rowell, Brytni Sarpy, Melody Thomas Scott, Trevor St. John, Zach Tinker, Jason Thompson, Heather Tom, Jordi Vilasuso, Susan Walters, Jess Walton, Patty Weaver, Lauren Woodland and more.
Photo: CBS
Check out our photo gallery below featuring many of the red carpet arrivals and some of the moments with the cast from inside the party, and be on the lookout for our extended coverage with our video interviews from the red carpet in the days ahead.
Now after checking out the photo gallery, who were you happy to see attending? Who dressed for success? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
Photos: CBS
Interesting to me how awful some lol. Nicki, Heather, looked beautiful. Too many seem to think showing boobs and really short looks good. Not many can pull that off.
Dear Mrs White aka “ Church Lady.” You forgot to say their “dirty pillows are showing.” Say hello to your daughter Carrie for me.
I pull it off all the time—if you got it; show it, baby…. Ha!!
Was hoping to see Gina Tognoni at this, but after how they treated her, I should not be surprised she’s not there. She is missed badly in daytime!
Not really
You don’t acting then!
She’s selling shoes now
I miss her! Such a charismatic and talented actress.
Loved Gina as Phyllis. Classy lady
She was ok as Kelly on oltl terrible as Dinah on GL and I don’t know what they were thinking casting her as Phyllis there is only one Big Red.
Lita—ABSOLUTELY, YEAH!!
Gina Tognoni and Maura West were both treated horribly by the show.
Very true. Maura West turned her version of Diane Jenkins into a fabulous vixen & eventual villainess. She stole the show. Maura was hosed by Maria Arena Bell. Gina was tossed out like trash and won an Emmy. Then the show brought back the insufferable Michelle Stafford, who eats the scenery for breakfast. Josh Griffith hosed Gina. Maura went on to win two more Emmys for her portrayal as the divine Ava Jerome on General Hospital. ABC knows how to treat one of daytime’s greatest stars.
Michelle Staffoed IS Phyllis, as insufferable and unclassy as so many may think—any diversion from that, would not be an authentic representation of Phyllis.
I am also very partial to Maura West—she is able to turn the viewer’s head in her direction whether he or she wants to or not. She is my Bostonian phenomenal actress, above all others!!
Yes, both were treated badly, in our point of view—however, we never know what goes on behind closed doors. Gina Tognoni was not such a classy lady as Phyllis. She was a s£ut. She wasn’t that great as Phyllis either—my opinion—albeit, I am biased.
Michelle is beautiful but sometimes she looks over the top with that sort of goofy smile. She just gets that part perfectly.
Hey Celia, I have a thought on Gina Tognoni. I think she’s a good actress, no question. But on GL and YR, she had the unenviable job of following two great performers: terrific Wendy Moniz (now on YELLOWSTONE) as the often sociopathic Dinah Marler and our own, original Michelle as Phyllis. Both were FANTASTIC (Stafford still is) in these roles and Gina put a good spin on her versions but, in my mind, I kept seeing the former, indelible actresses. Not Tognoni’s fault… can you imagine trying to recast Ava Jerome? Why bother?! Off subject, how about Spencer’s new haircut? Really shows off that incredible face. The guy makes me weak in the knees even when I’m lying down. Whew!
True, Soaphound—-Stafford and West are two of a kind thespians whose characters cannot be replaced or altered in any way. Both play their role to the hilt.
— it would be futile trying to find even the best of the best in her/his profession to parrot an actress/actor who has made the character hers/his own. It’s hard for us, the viewers, who have found that unique connection with said character representation to adjust to someone else. Rarely does that happen—
Oh, Yeah—Spencer—” Be still my heart”!!
He’s so young, Soaphound—Imagine him at 30 or 40–yum!!
I just wish he would get rid of both Trina and Victor—who has no umph–a deflated ham, especially now—wimpy limpy. LOL.
Trina? I am trying so hard to find a redeeming quality about her. Niente!! Just not for Specer.
I know I sound crazy, but if Esme is not Esme of old any longer, why not match them up again? At least, I felt a little current there—Trina is a bust for moi–
Albeit, knowing Esme slept with Nik–his Dad? Yuck—by the same token, it’s a soap where everyone sleeps with everyone slse anyway.
Michelle is the GOAT Phyliss!
Totally.
Gina had this shoe business long before Y&R she was miscast but she is a sweetheart and a team player! She had dynamite chemistry with Jason Thompson ! So everybody please lighten up ok
Stafford was a great Phyllis in the day but somewhere along the years she decided to play it over the top and I’m just not into it! She is better then that
Over the top is what made y & r great. Brenda Dickson was over the top. Kay was over the top. Sheila. Victor. I mean, what show are you watching? Michelle is fabulous.
Missy,
This whole show actually is over the top! Isn’t that why we’ve loved it most of the time for 50 years? My God, why are we all biting at each other for who we like or don’t like? Even the posters. I’m sure I’m not the the only one who prefers some to others, with likes and dislikes of our own. Even the men fans surprise the hell out of me sometimes with some of their views, especially when they seem to agree with mine. I wonder what we did for all the many years we had nothing like these fan sites to share and spill our guts on. Oh, we had the Fan Mags, but not really the same. Fortunately, we don’t have too many crazies, but Harry set this one right today. Happy 50th everyone, to all of us putting up and enjoying the show, actors and each other, right?
Well, Kay—that’s your opinion and some may find your lofty tone insolent and demeaning. We are not children and you have no right telling anyone to lighten up. You have your opinions, yes? No one “admonishes” you for your point of view. It would be very civil of you to give the rest of us the same right, whether you like it or not—-disagree, if you must, but do-not-talk-down-to-me. I bite back!!
Jason Thompson, in my opinion, is not what I consider a sexy, hot guy—he has chemistry with no one and inasmuch as I like Gina, neither does she—she does not have that ” je ne sais quoi” flair, nor that “come hither” quality as both Maura and Michelle. My opinion. Please do not scold me, ok? Bye!!
Love you celia I was tired of her lofty tone myself! You’re fabulous!!
Well, Lita, my friend—it’s been years—then “she” disappeared from these sites and is now back–only to preach—a bear, even the most well-tempered one can only be poked so many times–right?!?!?!
Thank you for that—I try convincing my husband how fabulous I really am. LOL.
Later, Lita.
I’m watching old clips of y&r on YouTube I didn’t start watching until 1987 but love Brenda Dickson! Love Jess to bits but Brenda was so slightly trashy!
Celia, whenever the subject of Jason Thompson’s “sex appeal” arises, I’m reminded of Billy Miller.. again. How I miss that man! Comparing his Billy Abbott to the latest is like comparing a block of ice to a bonfire. I prefer Miller’s “heat”.
Oh, Soaphound–Billy, oh, Billy–wherefore art thou Billy–❤️
Michelle is currently playing a woman who’s come undone while she watches her nemesis take her rightful place. And she’s beautifully riveting.
Harry,
She’s faking her own death as she’s blamed Diane for doing all these years.Hope it’s worth hurting her kids to prove a point, because what else can she possibly get out of it?
Oh I agree, Violet. I was just lauding MS for her brilliant performance. Is it over the top? Sure it is, but it’s good campy fun. We need that.
Violet, I was somewhat ambushed by today’s fracas, concerning Phyllis’ ostentatious display of love and pain. By the same token? DOUBLE WOW!! You go girl!! Amazing!!
Do you think she staged the whole thing? —That it may have been the plan?— but her weak pulse and faint breathing cannot be a “mise en scene”…..unless, there’s some kind of prestidigitation going on. Never knew Phyllis was a magician.
Did she and Stark stage the ring to be found in Phyllis’ hand? Is Phyllis really on her deathbed? Are they really married? All to get corrosive Diane— I guess all’s fair in love and war?
Aside—the misuse of Italian ( or any language) truly sticks to the craw—Bravo ( bravi-masculine plural)–Brava ( brave-feminine plural) means, “good”. It is not used just after a “show”……specifically used to describe a person—eg. È (is) bravo or brava. ” He/she is a good person. In Italian, nouns and pronouns are not necessarily used—It is ‘understood’ by the adjective….-Just sayin’.
Celia,
Hon, looks like you missed a whole episode. The whole thing was cooked up by Phyllis and Stark. After Phylliss did her “sad Mamma” bit with both her kids, she got a room and lured Diane up to it, pretending Kyle was asking for her because he was ill. Meanwhile, Stark swiped the engagement ring from Jack’s pocket before they had the chance to announce their engagement. When Diane got to the suite, Philliss started this big fight, forcing her to try chocking Phylliss, which of course she provoked herself to set up Diane and Jack, Kyle, etc all to burst into the room as was intended to make Diane look guilty.A couple of days ago Stark and Phylliss planned to fake her death, but didn’t say how. I guess Stark gave Phyllis the ring to hold when they planned the dying scene. Today’s scenes were new so don’t really know how or what they did to provoke her dying scene but it wasn’t fake as how Nate and Elena examined her. Hope you understand most of this. Excuse , soelling, grammar, punctuation, etc. Didn’t edit. P.S the marriage bit was not spoken of between them previously.
LOL Violet—-we all make typos—myself much more than anyone else on these sites—-and your grammar is above par-
Thank you—-I actually did miss the part where Phyllis and Stark had concocted her death.—-I haven’t caught up—-But, I was home all day. today and watched it. I guess that’s why I sounded so confused——it was staged.
But, whatever is ailing Phyllis is real. ——weirdly enough, Stark did not seem shocked. That’s baffling!! I also think that the necklace in her hand was also purposely done.
Wouldn’t it be ironic if Diane’s strangling hands damaged the carotid arteries in Phyllis’ neck? —-very feasible for her to lose consciousness where her breathing is affected. Finally, Violet, my favorite soap is showing a little spark—-thanks to Stark?
Hey’ Violet–I finally watched today’s episode.—Stark is sort of giving himself away—not showing concern when Daniel and Summer walked in, announcing the ambulance’s disappearance—or checking his watch, as if expecting something bombastic to happen–Hmmmm.
I have a stupid theory. What if Stark had one of his own guys kidnap Phyllis and then blame Diane? The presumed kidnapper could say Diane hired him? Too far-fetched? LOL.
What would be the point of this stunt unless Diane ultimately walks the proverbial plank?
Aside–Abby and Devon –can they get more boring??
Celia,
Is this one of their craziest stories yet? Yes, it had to be Stark’s people that took the ambulance with Phyllis in it, now it’s in a crash and I sure can’t figure how they will fake her death. I know she’s Misugagana as my Jewesh friend would say but going through all this to make Diane look guilty is too much, huh? I think you neant ring in her hand, which is Diane’s ring that Stark stole from Jack. Did you see Diane snatch it back out of Phyllis’s hand when she fell, the phony Paramedic sure didn’t miss it.
Aside, is Danny’s black hair as bad as I think it is, or am I too critical?
Who was talking down to you ! Lordy
I returned my shoes of hers they were hella ugly
Good nite no one was talking down to you get over it lofty do you even know what you are saying? We have a different opinion about ms that’s it nobody is attacking her.
We can’t assert our opinions because you will refute each one with your “backstage expertise” and then give us a little pat on the head like “nice try but I know better”. So good nite to you too!
Attacking you, Kay?? Since when have I attacked you—don’t use reverse psychology on me—it will not work. You told everyone here, in general, to “lighten up”, as if you were judge and jury. I defended myself—since you do not specify, it is understood that you were talking to anyone who disagrees with you. Do not turn the tables on me norbuses my own “estimatiom” of opining.
I accept anyone’s opinion and do not berate him/her for having a different point of view. I relish a hearty and hardy argument/debate. But, you chose to take it to a different level. And here you go again, talking down to me—you dare tell me to “get over myself”— Methinks the reverse is true. You need to get over yourself. You lord-it-over everyone. It’s one thing to talk about a character, but we respect each other and each other’s comments. I remembers a few years ago, a couple of other commenters got out of line—hasn’t happened since their “departure”— Now, here we go again.
For some reason , and it’s very transparent, you think you know better and ARE better. Pardon me, I do respect my elders, but I was also taught to defend myself —always. Good night to you to. Ma’am.
Hi Kay; I haven’t been on this site in a few years other than maybe 3-4 times; I occasionally pop in for GH talk. I wandered over here to the Y&R chat and see you’re being attacked by the same one I used to get into it with all the time. And I mean ALL THE TIME! Her and Shay; not sure if the other snob is still on. She thought she was Wilhemina Shakepeare, LOL. Liked to throw around her preference for British shows. Anyway, don’t mind her. She went cray cray on you just for saying, “lighten up.” You got her full-on “better than thou” my husband’s a doctor, I’m a teacher (I think that’s what she used to say she was; does she still talk about how young she is compared to everyone else so we have to excuse her innocence and be in awe of her?; I digress.) Don’t let her get to you. She just gave you a three page lecture and went ballistic. I think she’s actually insecure; she always thinks someone’s talking down to her or insulting her intelligence. Anyway, don’t lose any sleep over it! Just another keyboard warrior blasting her attitude across the screen.
Wow J Eddie Peck great looking in his jeans and cowboy hat.
I know! I always liked him.
Geeze he aged well !
Wonderful coverage. Thank you!
Why was Katherine Kelly Lang there? She was never on Y&R.
Anything to get attention.
I think she was on briefly in the early 80s. No on pays attention to these soap things anymore sadly so its not like she was expecting to be mobbed by fans.
Sister soaps probably there for support KKL is really not like that truly I admire her very smart business woman an always wonderful at fan events really you are truly wrong about her! And trust me I don’t trust or respect very few in the industry ! The soap is not what it was but I’m supporting them for being on for fifty years I hope they come around have a wake up call maybe listen to people who have watched the show forever and grow on those ideas ! Good luck
I’m happy for the 50 years but this show is not what it used to be and it used to be must see tv and I don’t watch anymore.
Where is the Big Star Mishael Morgan?
Perhaps she had other obligations?
It’s great to see Janice Lynde and the wonderful Jamie Lyn Bauer. I have such fond memories of the early days with the Brooks family and the Fosters. Too bad dreamy James Houghton (the original Greg Foster) isn’t there; he was gorgeous. I started watching at age 14. My school had split scheduling and freshmen attended in the afternoons only. So.. what better way to kill time before class? And I’m a sucker for nostalgia.
I read once the show had an orchestra playing in the background is that true? What was Kay like back then? I loved her but didn’t start watching until 1987 during the Nina/Phillip/Cricket triangle and Jill and Kay were flipping out!
Oh Shanice, Katherine Chancellor was the reason I stuck with the show! To be honest, she was pretty unlikable at first, all that drinking and messing around with stable boys in the daytime. But by the 80s, she was a real force, so entertaining and colorful. You felt like you were watching live T.V., never knowing what she might say next! If you want a fun read, Jeanne Cooper’s memoir, “NOT YOUNG, STILL RESTLESS” is a terrific glimpse back into those early days and the magic that is fading away from soaps these days. Just like most modern movies, it’s becoming style and ego over substance and storytelling.
Where is Doug Davidson? Paul Williams is and will be sorely missed on this Y and R milestone!
He did not have a manager that told him stay off Twitter do not try to attack this on social media !! You always lose who knows what happened but you never do your bitching on social media it’s the death trap! Look at Michael Muhney etc never discuss you grievances on social media ! I was in shock that VR showed up kudos to her! Any manager that is worth his salt will tell you keep your lip zippex
I didn’t think Doug was like that he’s one of my favorites and I didn’t realize he wasn’t there. He was such a part of the shows history. Too bad.
Michael Muhney is an oddball I never understood his appeal.
Of course the one I miss the most is Miss Jeanne Cooper I stopped watching when she died. The show wasn’t the same.
I always loved Michael Muhney’s version of Adam Newman. In fact, he actually made the character what it is today. The fans went nuts when he & Billy Miller were let go on the same episode by the soap killer, Jill Farren Phelps. Y&R has never been able to recapture the ratings after those two left in January 2014. Phelps wanted her little pet from General Hospital, Steve Burton, to take over as the top male lead from Miller & Muhney. Y&R fans never took to Burton, so he went back to GH.
JFP ruined so many soaps guiding light and another world in particular. She wanted Another world to be ER so badly.
Daria Evans,
I’m also a fan of Muhney and Miller. I’ve always felt that Michael was black-balled by the Black Knight, among others I suppose. He got a lousy deal. I think each Adam had their own personality with each actor playing the part. It seemed a little more than each one putting their spin on it.
I saw Billy Miller on episodes of “Suits”. He was good on there.
Lance,
I miss Doug—one day he was on, the next he wasn’t—-one of the good guys, if not the best!!
I know and he was on since like 1979!
I liked him better than overblown peter bergman
Hi, Tina,
I do not like Peter/Jack one iota—he really is full of himself—I know all about Jack’s misdeeds from my grandmother—-suddenly he has become this sanctimonious prig, whose morals even made Satan blush.
My grandmother said that she liked the original Jack ( Terry?)—different personality, I guess. He wasn’t this dumb. If Jack could just wake up from hiis perennial somnambulant stupor and stop sniffing at the silver lady’s skirts, he’d see right through that blinding shimmer. Ugh!!
Yeah terry Lester was great as jack.
Hi Celia,
Grandma’s right again. Terry Lester was very good as Jack but very young and played the rich, playboy to the hilt.
He died way too young at 53 and played a very good part on Santa Barbara and then ATWT. Does your grandmother remember watching either of these? They were both very good.
Hey, Violet—my nanna has a very sharp memory–better than mine. LOL.
I asked her, but she didn’t watch either of those–
Her first soap was “Secret Storm”–followed by
“Search for Tomorrow”, “Another World”, “OLTL”, “Somerset”, the short-lived, “How to Survive a Marriage”, AMC”, “Loving”, “Y&R”, ” Dark Shaows” and “Passions”— I don’t know which followed first. She never watched “GH” until I started watching, after OLTL and AMC went off air.
Celia, I nearly died when Jack gave Ashley a hard time for bringing Tucker to the masquerade ball. I mean, he’s engaged to a sociopath who faked her own death causing her young son lasting heartbreak! Who does that? I recovered quickly from my outrage at Jack’s hypocrisy when Tucker told Jack,”Don’t worry. I’ve had my shots, and I’m pretty sure I’m housebroken.” TSJ is the best thing that has happened to Y&R in a long time. His droll persona and witty ad libbing brings much needed levity to this show. Last Friday’s show Tucker only uttered four seemingly unremarkable words,”This is so fun.” His deadpan voice and mannerisms merged with the sight of him in a black mask slumped over the bar producing hilarious results. And with one short line, Tucker stole the show.
Well, dear Harry—-Jack is the epitome of the definition of hypocrisy—-more fool he—–while Tucker is Mr. Entertainment itself!! Never a boring word—always to the point—he’s a literary genius. No word that comes out of his mouth is wasted—-he gives off a devil-may-care attitude, but deep down he cares very much—-his wit fascinated me—-I am a lover of anything literary—I love wordplay, literary idioms and a combination of the satirical and sarcastic implications. —-he embodies and embraces metaphors with an easy sit and simply one word—and that’s what attracts us—-it’s left to the imagination—-Yes, he is perfect for this role because he does, indeed, steal the show!!
Compared to Jack, Tucker is a hundred times a man. I doubt very much he’s the type of guy to get bamboozled by a less than-honorable and used-up, conniving B.
I hope Phyllis knows into what she’s gotten herself. I am hoping for a “Stark-turned-going-guy” development—just for Phyllis’ sake. The way her kids are treating her is abominable—It’s no wonder she’s hurt out of her head. Imagine she and Stark as one—maybe?—only if he does a turnabout!! I like him—-since he played a cop in “Passions”.
Wit, not sit, Harry—-and .turned good guy, not going–LOL
He apparently was not invited to the special Sun. night on CBS and Cricket said he was in Portugal visiting his daughter. I think it will be over soon and he’ll be gone officially, she looked unhappy. I counted four quick shots of him in the two hrs.
Kay, I couldn’t agree with you more. While Doug Davidson has valid reasons for feeling disgruntled, you don’t burn your bridges on social media. This guy has been whining and crying on Twitter for months. I mean, grow up!
Doug Davidson has attacked Y&R on Twitter. I’ve never seen a guy go off the deep end as he has. Sony and CBS must have gotten tired of his act and let him go. Now, they’ll keep him on ice for the rest of his career. Y&R is known for treating some of their top stars terribly after they’ve left the show. Davidson is really mad at the network and Sony.
These chats are my only “social media” ( if we can call it that), and Instagram. But, only family and friends.
So, I cannot pass judgment. However, and I do believe what you say, Doug was most likely ‘mismanaged’ or mis-treated, considering he was there from its inception. I do not know—can’t say. Nonetheless, I do agree that one’s grievances should be conducted “faccia a faccia” and “mano a mano”— yet, I still love and admire him for his 100% dedication to the show. That’s what/who I saw.
Yeah, Doug didn’t do himself any favors by bashing the show that employed him for 40 years. IMO, it’s time to recast Paul.
I’m sure after how badly things ended between him and the show, it’s no wonder he wouldn’t be there. I can’t say that I blame him. It can be a very cruel, cutthroat business. As an actor you better be ready to put up with all the bad that comes along with the good or it won’t end well. For some, getting out was the only way to save their sanity.
We are holding out hope for DOUG DAVIDSON’S surprise return!…LORD KNOWS his fans(ME included);have DEFINITELY been rallying for his return ON-SET to Y&R,with some NEW & EXCITING STORYLINES for his character-PAUL WILLIAMS!!….
why is Victoria Rowell there, she wasn’t a fan of the Bell’s. SMH!
Waiting on tables
Shanice, that is a crappy remark and many could see it as being blatantly racist.
Many meaning you
Shanice, meaning YOU! I am not a person who readily plays the race card- not at all. But for you to joke that an African- American actress was there as member of “ the help” and not as a rightful member of a legacy character of Y&R, signifies your own racial bias. Maybe you were trying to be funny but you horrifically failed in that endeavor.
They’re is nothing wrong waiting on tables lots of actors do it. You’re just trying to start shit. Shut up and go to work at McDees your shift is starting. I will have a large sweet tea and a biscuit samich.
Shanice, go back to your original post. Of course there is nothing wrong with waiting on tables. I was in the service industry thorough both my undergraduate and graduate years in college. But you said the reason Victoria Rowell was in attendance was because she was a waitress- in other words, she was part of “The Help.” That was a crappy and hateful remark and frankly, I am surprised it made it through the censors.
I thought it was hilarious and will repeat many actors end up waiting on tables. Larry Lau of All My Children Another World and OLTL waited on tables after being out of work for many years and then he got his OLTL gig. So I don’t see your point but I am sure you will shout it out shortly.
Harry,
I think this ignorant person is just goading you and every time you criticize her, she rationalizes her meaning and remark. I’m pretty sure we all know what she’s referring to.
Oh, Harry–Violet is right—you are so much better than “that”– everyone agrees with you; ergo, everything else said to excuse herself/himself is futile, my friend. Some people feel so entitled that they can insult at will without expecting criticism.
Agreed. That comment was low.
No
Excuse me?? She was an important part of Y&R back in the day and I guess they recognized that.
She showed class by showing up. She was invited like Doug Davidson was, and she graciously showed up. Why be mad at her for being gracious?
How do you know for CERTAIN that ‘DD’was INVITED,Mr. Harry?!?….
Are you implying that she crashed the party? Of course she was invited. You’re being ridiculous. She was an integral part of the show and Dru was a legacy character. She was also asked to come back for a special memorial for Kristoff St.John. I’m not sure why they’re are people on here acting all aghast that she attended.
I know, I thought she actually brought a lawsuit against either tptb or CBS? Maybe she kissed and made up with them.
Julie,
According to the Wash. Post, she sued Sony and CBS for racial discrimination. No matter how hard she tried, they would not bring her back. I rather think she was not amicably invited to the Gala. It would make them appear to be two-faced. Just my two cents worth and some known facts from Google.
Her problem was with Cbs and Sony not the Bells. Oh and Stafford and MTS apparently. She mentioned somewhere that her and Bill Bell were very open together about storyline s like her real life ballerina experience and the Devon foster story.
Amanda,
I was never a fan of hers. She really didn’t need any others than herself.
Violet, I was not a big fan of hers either. But still, she had her moments. I fondly recall how she tried to improve herself in order to attract the more upscale Neil Winters. She took ballet lessons and looked beautiful dancing in her pink leotard and skirt. Dru later asked Mammy to teach her how to make crab cakes for Neil due to her old fashioned belief that the way through a man’s heart is through his stomach.
Harry,
Yes I remember all that and I’m still old enough to believe that as they say these days” the heart wants what the heart wants” and sometimes it’s just some delicious crab cakes!
She rode in on Kristoff St John’s coattails and he made her look good. Other than that I wasn’t interested.
CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE!!!! THANKS FOR ALL THE YEARS OF ENTERTAINMENT AND FABULOUS ACTING!! (And the many more years to look forward to!) YOU ALL LOOK FABULOUS!
No David Tom, Brenda Dickson, Doug Davidson, Billy Miller, Justin Hartley, Josh Morrow, Michael Muhney, Amelia Heinle, Gina Tognoni, Steve Burton, Maura West, or Robert Newman just to name a few big players missing. Lots of bad blood behind the scenes at Y&R, which is well-known for its backstage backstabbing cast. Jeanne Cooper wrote about it in her book.
Omgosh why wasn’t Josh Morrow there! He is a legacy character. I’m shocked.
And don’t you DARE forget…NO Shemar Moore!…
K.C,
He’s got a lot going on in his life with his show, a new baby, etc.
Justin is starting to work on his new show coming to CBS. Joshua probably wanted to stay home with his family and the same could be said for Amelia.
Congratulations. Great to see so many past and present at the party.
Y&R has always had backstage drama. So many feuds and bad blood. Its reputation in the industry for nastiness is legendary. With Doug Davidson & Brenda Dickson missing, it just proves how terrible it is. The final days of Billy Miller & Michael Muhney delivered massive ratings for the show, yet nowhere to be seen. Josh Morrow & Amelia Heinle are long time leads, but are MIA. Y&R’s BTS drama continues on full display.
Congratulations and thank you to cast and crew past and present for achieving 50 years! I was 11 years old and wanted to watch a soap from the very beginning, so high fives and fist pumps to everyone involved in reaching this milestone. Carry on……….please.
60 current and former cast mates and you can only manage 4 photos?
Where was Brenda Dickson? She was great as original Jill
Sorry that Michael or whomever runs the show here has no interest in the ongoing ” who killed Phyllis” SL because a lot of us would like to share or contribute our thoughts. Thanks a lot.
This summer beginning on July 21, Netflix streams the return of WWE: Unreal for its third season. The behind the scenes docudrama series gives fans a glimpse of life in WWE and inside the writers room, as injuries, last-minute pivots, and career-defining decisions reshape WWE’s biggest event of the year, WrestleMania 42.
WWE Unreal is taking fans deeper than ever inside World Wrestling Entertainment’s creative process, The hit docuseries will once again pull back the curtain on some of the biggest moments, boldest decisions, and unforgettable storytelling with some of the WWE’s greatest legends who’ve shaped the industry and new stars who are emerging as prominent parts of the future.
In the new season of ‘Unreal’ which consists of 5 episodes at 50 minutes each: John Cena says goodbye, a fan favorite returns, and the next generation of Superstars rise to the occasion.
Photo: WWE
The cast and WWE superstars featured include: the aforementioned Cena, plus Cody Rhodes, Liv Morgan, CM Punk, AJ Lee, Trick Williams, Lash Legend, Stephanie Vaquer, Oba Femi, Bron Breakker, Chelsea Green, Matt Cardona, Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch.
As previously reported AJ Lee revealed on General Hospital star Maurice Benard’s (Sonny Corinthos) mental health series, State of Mind, that she was part of the cast of WWE: Unreal.
WWE: Unreal production credits include: Directors/Showrunners: Chris Weaver and Erik Powers Executive Producers: Peyton Manning, Jamie Horowitz, Ross Ketover, Keith Cossrow, Ken Rodgers, Jessica Boddy, Lee Fitting, Ben Houser, Marc Pomarico Sr. Producers: Harley Glantz, Brian Decker, Michael Flynn Producers: John Galiani, Dan Gati, Jeremy Lundblad Production Companies: Omaha Productions, NFL Films, Skydance Sports, WWE.
So, what do you think of the loglines for the new season of WWE: Unreal? Who are you most excited to see featured in the behind the scenes drama from the list of WWE superstars and the twists and turns leading into this past April’s WrestleMania 42? Let us know via the comment section below.
If you have ever tuned-in to the soap opera genre over the last 50 years, and witnessed some of the greatest romances, drama, classic and outlandish storylines of all-time, you would have seen Deidre Hall smack dab in the middle of it as longtime Salem heroine, Dr. Marlena Evans.
It was 50 years on this date, June 21, 1976 that Hall first appeared on DAYS on NBC which was its home for 57 years before it moved to its current streaming platform on Peacock in September of 2022.
In Hall’s first episode she was introduced as a psychiatrist treating Mickey Horton (John Clarke) at Bayview Sanitarium after he suffered a complete mental breakdown. Mickey learned that his brother Bill Horton (Edward Mallory) was the biological son of Mike Horton (Wesley Eure) with his wife Laura (Susan Flannery) and that he had been lied to for years and years. From that moment on, the rest is television and soap opera history. Days of Our Lives put Hall front and center.
Photo: NBC
There were so many heartbreaking and shocking story twists involving the beloved Marlena. One of the first was the historic crib death of baby DJ (Don Jr.) in 1980, Marlena’s infant son with Don Craig (Jed Allan). The story had never been told on daytime television and Hall’s performances received accolades from TV critics to fans when Deidre received thousands of letters from grieving mothers who had gone through the same thing in their own lives.
DAYS also brought Deidre’s twin sister, Andrea Hall Lovell to the show as her on-screen sister Samantha, who had a grudge and even locked Marlena up in a sanitarium and took her place! Fast-forward and in 1982, DAYS launched the Salem Strangler story where everyone believed Marlena was his next victim, only it turned out to be Samatha. Jake Kositchek (played by Jack Coleman) was revealed to be the actual serial killer.
Later, Deidre would assume the role of Marlena’s look-alike, Hattie Adams in 2004, once played by her sister, Andrea. Over the years, Hattie has come back to Salem and caused trouble giving Hall a chance to play a different type of character, then the always upstanding Marlena.
Photo: JPI
THE LOVES OF MARLENA
Deidre Hall struck gold with all her leading men: from the late Jed Allan, to Wayne Northrop as Roman Brady, and of course, her enduring love story with the late John Black played by the iconic Drake Hogestyn. In fact, Marlena’s 1986 wedding to John (who was believed to be Roman at the time) remains a favorite of fans to this day.
TOP MARLENA STORYLINES OF ALL-TIME
While the list is long, here are several that were some of the memorable during Deidre’s five decades in Salem!
The Possession (1994- 1995)
Considered one of the most ambiguous, outlandish and unforgettable story arcs in soap opera history, then Days of Our Lives head writer, James Reilly went there! Marlena was possessed by the devil! That included; the demonic eyes, hissing at father John (Black) the priest, morphing into creatures, and the classic levitating in her bed! It became a cultural phenomenon and cemented Deidre Hall’s status as a daytime television legend. Just ask Ryan Gosling!
Photo:JPI
The Affair with John Black (1993)
John and Marlena’s forbidden love could not be denied and they had passionate affair, while she was still married to the real Roman. Problem was her daughter, Sami (Alison Sweeney) caught her mother having sex with John on a desk that changed Sami forever.
The Salem Stalker Mystery (2003-2004)
In a shocker, Marlena was revealed to be a serial killer who bumped off several Salem favorites residents who were all alive on the island of Melaswen (spelled “New Salem” backward). Turns out, she was manipulated and gaslighted by Andre DiMera (Thaao Penghlis) to do the “killings” and had no memory of her actions.
The Pier Scene (1991)
This remains Michael Fairman TV’s all-time favorite Deidre Hall moment, which featured some of the best acting in the storied careers of both Hall and Drake Hogestyn.
In the story, a presumed-dead Marlena returns after four years. One foggy night on the pier, John is alone, and Marlena steps out of the fog to reveal herself, and is reunited with the love of her life. You can watch it any year, any decade, and in any moment, and it will have you reaching for the hankies again and again. (best music score fo a soap scene of all-time too!)
Photo: NBC
Kristen’s Secret Room Reveal (1997)
Marlena was caught in Kristen Blake’s (Eileen Davidson) elaborate web of lies, when she was held hostage in a secret wine cellar/room until John managed to track her down, leading to an iconic on-screen reunion. The classic catfight between Hall and Eileen Davidson was one for the ages.
It should be noted that Maison Blanche, Queen of the Night, Possession, Aremid and Lady in a Cage were all a part of classic DAYS storyline and all featured Hall at the epicenter of it from 1993-1996.
THE RECENT YEARS OF MARLENA
In recent years, DAYS brought back the possession 2.0 storyline under then head writer Ron Carlivati in 2021 where the devil leapt back in Marlena after taking advantage of a frail Doug Williams (the late Bill Hayes)
In 2025, viewers watched the end of the love story of John and Marlena, as John succumbed to injuries sustained in an explosion saving a vial of medication needed to bring Bo (Peter Reckell) back to life. Marlena has been a widow on-screen since June of 2025 as Hall as portrayed the good doctor struggling with her grief and to move on with her life since his death.
Photo: JPI
One story that never goes away is Stefano DiMera’s (the late Joe Mascolo) obsession with Marlena, his “Queen of the Night.” Even in death, Stefano is toying with her from the great beyond with the mysterious chess set and the missing “pawn,” that he had gifted John and Marlena in his will. The mystery is currently unfolding on all-new episodes of Days of Our Lives.
Tune-in to Days of our Lives on the Monday, June 22 episode as Marlena looks back at her 50 years in Salem.
Share your congratulations to Deidre Hall for this incredible 50-year milestone as Dr. Marlena Evans on Days of Our Lives in the comment section. Then let us know, what is your all-time favorite storyline or moment in the life of Marlena over the past 5 decades? And, just for kicks, and to celebrate this amazing milestone, here is Marlena levitating below circa Christmas Eve 1994.
General Hospital
Maurice Benard Gives High Praise to ‘General Hospital’ Writers; Teases Upcoming Sonny Scenes with Anna, Jason, Justine and Ric
With the highly-anticipated returns of Finola Hughes (Anna Devane) on this week’s June 24 episode of General Hospital, Steve Burton’s (Jason Morgan) upcoming return on July 13, which also serves as the ABC daytime drama’s 16,000 episode, things are about to fire on all cylinders in the story, as noted today by series star, Maurice Benard (Sonny Corinthos).
On Father’s Day, the three-time Daytime Emmy-winning actor and mental health activist took to his Instagram and expressed in a video that he has some unbelievable upcoming senes with the aforementioned Burton and Hughes. Add to that Nazneen Contractor (Justine Turner) and Rick Hearst (Ric Lansing), where Benard gave credit where credit is due to the GH writing team, which is led by co-head writers, Elizabeth Korte and Chris Van Etten..
In this video, Benard said, “I just want to get on here and say that I did some work with Steve Burton, Finola Hughes, Rick Hearst, Nazneen Contractor, and they’re all just fantastic. Truly fantastic. But, I want to say the writing was just exceptional. It truly was. It was exceptional. So, thankful for that kind of writing. I know writers don’t get the credit a lot, but I just want to say to the General Hospital writing team, keep rolling!”
GENERAL HOSPITAL PREVIEW
So now the question becomes, with a major tease like that, what is about to go down between Sonny, Anna, Jason, Justine and Ric? Will we finally get to the end of the line for Sidwell (Carlo Rota), as previously teased by the GH co-head writers? Will we learn what happened to Jason and Anna, fully? Will Justine and Sonny becomes closer or stop their liaisons? And what of Ric? Will he be true blue to his brother or double-cross him? There is a lot at stake as we move further into the summer and one that looks like it could be one of the more exciting ones in years!
FINOLA HUGHES CONFIRMED AMAZING SCENES WITH MAURICE BENARD
As a punctuation point to his video, Benard also shared this written message in the post: “I just did some wonderful scenes with Steve Burton, Rick Hearst, Finola Hughes and Nazneen Contractor and and unbelievable writing, freaking amazing scenes that you will see in the near future on General Hospital.” In fact, Finola Hughes jumped in the post comment thread and responded, “I loved our scenes so much xxx”
Fans will most likely see all the scenes Benard referred to later in July, since GH tapes approximately six weeks ahead of air.
So, are you excited to see what Maurice is talking about? Are you hyped for what’s to come on GH? Any clue on what you think will go down between the main characters on the soap with the returns of Anna Devane and Jason Morgan to the mix? Weigh-in via the comment section below.
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‘WWE: Unreal’ Season 3 Premiere Date, Cast of Superstars, Announced by Netflix
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Carly and Lulu Make Plans to Rescue Their Children; Anna Looks Determined to Secure Her Freedom
Deidre Hall Marks 50 Years as ‘Days of Our Lives’ Dr. Marlena Evans
Maurice Benard Gives High Praise to ‘General Hospital’ Writers; Teases Upcoming Sonny Scenes with Anna, Jason, Justine and Ric
Al Calderon Reflects on ‘Major Chapters’ Coming to an End on ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘Brilliant Minds’
Maurice Benard Gives High Praise to ‘General Hospital’ Writers; Teases Upcoming Sonny Scenes with Anna, Jason, Justine and Ric
‘General Hospital’s’ Controversial Luke and Laura Rape Episode: Writer Sheri Anderson Reveals Behind the Scenes Decisions and Admits ‘I Was Wrong’ to Defend It (Exclusive)
‘Days of Our Lives’ Eric Martsolf Recalls Moment He Learned He Was Cast as Brady Black, and Last Scenes with Drake Hogestyn (SOAPY Exclusive Preview)
‘General Hospital’s’ Dominic Zamprogna Weighs-In on Dante and Elizabeth Pairing and Sharing Scenes with Rebecca Herbst (Exclusive)
GENERAL HOSPITAL Promo: Rocco’s in a Panic as Britt’s Health Takes a Turn, Chase is Called to the Carpet
‘WWE: Unreal’ Season 3 Premiere Date, Cast of Superstars, Announced by Netflix
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Carly and Lulu Make Plans to Rescue Their Children; Anna Looks Determined to Secure Her Freedom
Deidre Hall Marks 50 Years as ‘Days of Our Lives’ Dr. Marlena Evans
Y&R Preview: Matt Clark Asks Phyllis on a Date, Would You Be Down for the Pairing? Roger Howarth & Michelle Previously in GH’s Franco/Nina Romance
‘General Hospital’s’ Dominic Zamprogna Reflects on Dante’s Guilt for the ‘Atrocity’ That Happened to Michael Which Kept Everyone From Telling Him the Truth About Rocco (Exclusive)
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