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Y&R’s Jason Thompson Delivers The ‘Power Performance of the Week’

By Michael Fairman

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Courtesy/CBS

It was Jason Thompson’s (Billy) time to have a standalone episode on The Young and the Restless and this past Tuesday, Thompson shined in a performance that took an emotional toll on his character of Billy Abbott and for many in the viewing audience.  The last time we saw Thompson given anything near this; was actually his first episode on The Young and the Restless when Billy was hovering between life and death and as he confronted his family, they did not hear what he was saying to them.

Now in September of 2019, Billy has been overcome with grief over the death of his daughter Delia and getting revenge against Adam (Mark Grossman) that he developed an alternate personality who is the tough guy who would do things Billy in his right mind could never set out to do.

Photo: JPI

In the episode, Billy (who is still in a cabin) admits to Victoria that what Chloe said about him is true . He lured Adam to the route where Delia died and tried to kill him.  Billy reveals that there is a whole other Billy who takes over, who wants to punish people, and does some very bad things.  Victoria urges Billy to confront that part of himself.  Since he has not eaten in several days, she leaves him behind at the cabin to go bring him back some food.  And thus ,the standalone episode begins to really kick-off.

Alone, Billy closes his eyes and in tears, sees a more grown up version and vision of Delia.  But she is not happy with him.  While she says she understands why he went after Adam the first time after her death, she does not understand why years later he is still trying to kill him.  Delia explains that going to heaven is beautiful; but he will never be reunited with her if he continues to have malice in his heart and soul.  Billy is devastated that his beloved daughter, who he grieves so much for, is disappointed in him. But then, so too is Jack!

Next, Billy envisions Jack (Peter Bergman) in the cabin with him, and Jack really hits Billy below the belt and tells him what a miserable failure he is and calls him “weak”.  We then see the character switch and the gum-chewing alter ego pushed to the brink and so that Billy fights back.  Jack continues to barrage Billy and then Billy shouts, “Screw you, Jack!”  Billy thinks Jack’s jealous of him. Jack hollers, “Who are you!? Pick one and be done with it.”  It was a difficult to scene to watch, because Billy while battling his demons, he is hearing such terrible things inside himself from those he loved; like his older brother.

Photo: JPI

Then, comes his mother, Jill (Jess Walton)! All of a sudden she appears and is also extremely hard on Billy, and she tells her son that Victoria can do better than him, and that as a partner for Victoria he is an absolute dismal failure.  Jill really kicks him by saying that he always ends up back in the gutter with a mountain to climb.

All of a sudden, an evil Phyllis (Michelle Stafford) emerges in front of Billy.  She really plays up his addiction to gambling, entices him to a poker game and he loses, which further sends Billy spiraling.  He becomes more agitated as she laughs in his face.  Next, Adam appears shouting at Billy, “What is going on in your skull?”  Billy replies, “I’m not a monster.” Adam says, “Neither am I.”  Then, viewers see Adam strangling Billy, but then it is revealed that Billy is being strangled by the alternate version of himself in a fight for power and control.

Photo: JPI

Just then, Victoria (Amelia Heinle) returns as Billy battles with himself and remembers those who just ‘visited’ him.  Billy comes up with the inner strength to throw off the alter and not give in.  Finally, Billy punches him and the alternate Billy sort of melts away. Billy confesses to Victoria he doesn’t want that part of himself to ever return, and if there is anything good left in him it is because of her.

Throughout the hour, Jason Thompson illustrated once again why he is one of the finest actors in the genre, delivering an extremely complex performance and taking the gut-punches thrown at him by the other actors through their characters while taking the audience along with him and Billy’s inner struggle.  Whether you like the storyline, or not, you cannot take away from what Thompson did through his work in a performance that could have easily been just as powerful in a stage play in a theatre, as it was on TV.

What did you think of Jason’s ‘Power Performance of the Week”? Share your thoughts via the comment section below.

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Jason did an absolutely stunning job. I loved the whole thing. His scenes with Victoria were amazing too.

I have been very vociferous about my intolerance of Thompson in the role of Billy Abbott…hardly ever held back.
WOW!! If I could only eat my words about his acting prowess, I would—- He gave me the goosies with that performance—not only was his acting, as the lost, confused desperate and helpless father, man, brother, friend and ‘husband’, superlative; but, by Jove( LOL), Thompson looked as pained as his heartfelt performance. His delivery was top-notch, his expression was unmistakably en pointe …..his eyes hungry and hopeless !!
Fantastic show of talent, Jason….Encore, s’il vous plait!!

Nothing that has went down is his fault he plays what Is given to him !!! We really need including myself to stop blaming and attacking actors for what comes on screen they are doing their job

I will always support him he got a raw deal at GH because nobody could accept the character of Robin leaving they took that out on Jason he did not deserve that abuse so let’s support him now he has poured his soul into making Billy his own

@Kay…I agree Thompson was treated oh so shabbily by GH, and not just at the very end of his contact. His character’s downfall began a rapid descent when Patrick was paired with that ludicrous babysitter in a plucked-from the Disney Channel storyline that was force-fed on the audience throughout one of the worst couplings ever to materialize in Port Charles. Not only was the actress in question absolutely horrible, but the entire scenario made Patrick look utterly ridiculous…..especially when he was far more logically suited to Robin’s BFF, the Lovely Liz, or later, presumed widow, Sam…both of these ladies were age-appropriate and actually had chemistry with Patrick. To this day, Drake Jr.’s time with Sabs remains one of the sorriest chapters in GH history, and quite frankly, it has nothing to do with Robin’s absence, at least, not from my perspective. Personally speaking, I can take or leave KMcC’s character, as she lost all appeal for me once she matured beyond that adorably precocious moppet we knew way back when. Hence whether she was part of Patrick’s life, or not, mattered none to me….I just desired for him to move on from Robin’s so-called “death” with a palatable partner who actually knew his late wife and honored her memory because they had actually shared her life in Port Charles. Instead, we had a wannabee Cinderella tale that usurped the tragedy of Robin’s untimely passing as an excuse to prop the princess-style fantasies of a bubble-headed student nurse with a magical stethoscope. Just the thought of it still makes me want to hurl….

I totally agree Celia. I hated the idea of the DID storyline at first, but end result was great! Billy met his demon and battled it! Now, the next storyline with Victoria being arrested for Victor’s supposed death – we know he ain’t dead, got a not again response. She just went through this with J.T.! Give the girl a break! As always, good post Celia!

Thank you, Lew…..your posts are none too shabby, my friend!! LOL.
It has nothing to do “taking direction” as Kay suggests, but rather my antipathy for Jason; which is never fair. I simply am not a fan of the actor. I won’t hide that fact—-
However I will give one his/her due when deserved. I have never seen so much emotion emanate from Jason’s pores, as it were.
Harry described Billy’s inner turmoil succintly and with heart. His dueling “selves” had to make an appearance in order to save Billy—-or who was truly locked inside—-the climactic emergence was painful to witness—that’s how ‘fantabulous’ Jason was.❤️

Jason Thompson was nothing short of brilliant in playing the internal conflict which exists between his dueling selves. Not only was his acting spot on, the writing and direction was as well. At one point Billy was battling (wrestling) with Adam and the camera pans from behind Adam’s head, and suddenly it is evident that Billy was mirroring Adam’s every move. In fact, it looks like Adam is a mirrored reflection of Billy. Then Adam dissolves into Billy and it becomes clear to the viewer that Billy is really wrestling with himself.
This is a case where great acting merges with great writing and direction.
Bravo to all of those who created this soap opera masterpiece–we so see little of this these days.

Well said agree I think he is dealing with his own guilt

Jason’s performance was riveting. Best daytime performance in years. Writing was much better than usual for all the characters involved. Peter Bergman also stood out.

Jason’s acting was extraordinary – that was so Emmy worthy!!!!

Total awesome and believable. He owned his character.

Absolutely amazing , 1st class acting.,

I was against Thompson taking the role of Billy. BUT, seeing how bad Miller was on GH, bad writing or not, Jason Thompson now fits the role as a more mature William Abbott. Great job on your standalone episode my friend!

Great performance..I hope he is recognized at Emmys…he is the best Billy..hope he stays..

Thompson is a good actor, but still would like to see Billy Miller return to the role. Hopefully this story line is finally OVER. Enough already!!!

Jason Thompson is incredible as Billy Abbott! Please do not bring back Billy Miller even though I love him.

Jason did an extremely wonderful job….I like his performance and how he acts!!! His character is very emotional and lovely! His scenes with Victoria and the kids are very real..he acts like they are a happy family and that is acting with your real feeling!! Jason Thompson’s character of Billy Abbott is done with extreme love, passion, and finesse!!

Yes Tracey,
As much as I love Billy Miller, no one played Billy Abbott as well as Jason. I liked him from the very beginning in this role, and thought his talents were so wasted on GH. He and Victoria look so right together, and it just doesn’t fit anymore when Victor calls him Billy Boy, although I do think he is getting a little more respect for Billy.

That was a very powerful episode. Jason/Billy did battle with his demons and the “evil Billy”. I loved the part where he strangled “himself” and the alter sort of melted away. Great job Jason!!

Behind in viewing as always. Violet is so correct when saying that “Billy Boy” doesn’t work any longer. The first preview I saw of Jason portrayed great gentleness. It was such an opposing character from the previous Billy. Is this the time writer’s are going to allow great shifts in character personas?

So much has changed.

I am somewhat appreciating “new Adam’s” acting, not his character. Did Victor learn something with his illness? In past times he often became the example of pure evil.

There have been too many changes for me too quickly. Where is the rock that holds the program together. Hope the writer’s decide.

Grown up Billy works for me. Find an unexpected real criminal in Genoa City so that Paul doesn’t have to keep arresting his friends. Glad Paul is back! Thanks!

General Hospital

GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sidwell Surfaces; A Twist in Britt’s Condition

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On the Thursday, June 18 episode of General Hospital, Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota) makes his shocking return right in Port Charles, after fleeing (thanks to Cassius) to supposedly parts unknown to escape capture for trying to kill Dr. Lucas Jones (Van Hansis).

How does he show up in town? First, Ezra (Daniel Cosgrove) gets a text from Jacinda (Paige Herschell) to meet in his hotel room. Ezra thinks the two are going to have a sexcapade so he puts champagne on ice for his favorite escort.

Suddenly, there is a knock at the door. Ezra’s excitement turns towards fear as instead of Jacinda, Sidwell is standing in front of him. Next, Sidwell blackmails Boyle telling him he has plenty of leverage he can use against him. Sidwell wants to use Ezra to help him takedown, Sonny (Maurice Benard), Lucas, Laura (Genie Francis) and Cullum.

Courtesy/ABC

ARE SIDWELL’S DAYS NUMBERED?

Meanwhile, Sonny confides in his brother, Ric (Rick Hearst). He says he knows who killed Marco an he is going to use that intel to lure Sidwell out of hiding.  Sonny also shares he is going to kill Sidwell, and handle this by himself. He gave the PCPD a chance, but they failed to nab Sidwell for good and lock him up.

Sonny also has been tracking the whereabouts of Britt (Kelly Thiebaud) and Rocco (Finn Carr) through Brick, and learned they took a flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and then boarded a fairy to take them somewhere off the island.

Courtesy/ABC

BRITT’S ‘SYMPTOMS’ RETURN

Turns out, Britt and Rocco are hiding out in the British Virgin Islands. Britt set up Rocco with a burner phone and a VPN on her tablet, that is not traceable. Rocco reads on the tablet about Lucas’ shooting. Britt starts to have the shakes and passes out. When she comes to, Britt won’t let Rocco call a doctor, but he uses his phone to step on the balcony and call Charlotte (Bluesy Burke) and ask for help. Charlotte looks shocked to hear from her brother as Danny (Asher Antonyzyn) looks on!

Courtesy/ABC

However, Joe (Jonathan Bennett) could be the one to put two and two together! While at General Hospital and after questioning Lucas about a syringe he found that was in someone’s possession. the toxicology report showed traces of saline solution, not actual medication. He asks Dr. Jones, why someone would inject themselves with saline? Lucas responds saline is harmless and would have no effect on someone.

So, does this mean that this entire time, Britt has been led to believe that the medication she was taking to treat her Huntington’s disease was placebo? Has Britt been lied to into believing she is dying? Is something else wrong with her instead?

Share your thoughts and theories via the comment section below, and if you are ready for Sidwell to finally get his comeuppance from Sonny! But first, watch the scenes where Sidwell comes out of hiding and blackmails Ezra Boyle.

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General Hospital

GENERAL HOSPITAL: Dante and ‘Nathan’ Have It Out, Valentin and Carly Share Passionate Moments Which May Be Their Last

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On the June 16 episode of General Hospital, the PCPD under acting police commissioner Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) is in a bit of mess and does not go unnoticed by ADA Turner (Nazneen Contractor).

First, there is the whole Chase (Josh Swickard) defending Willow Cain (Katelyn MacMullen) over Tracy Quartermaine (Jane Elliot), who he arrested for allegedly tossing Willow in the waters next to the Quartermaine boathouse. Turner has had it with Chase’s good guy act and how he tampered with evidence in her case against Willow for shooting Drew.

Later, Dante and Justine question “Nathan” (Ryan Paevey) about Sidwell’s escape while in his custody. Turner is not buying his cover story that he was ambushed by Sidwell and his men. Once “Nathan” left the interrogation room, Turner went in on Dante about having “Nathan” on the force after seven years away, and Chase she views as a “dirty cop.”

However, Dante defends both of his officers, but Justine warned that “Nathan” and Chase’s behavior would reflect poorly on Dante as commissioner and she should really think about that. Later, Dante has a terse confrontation with “Nathan” on how he botched a prison transport and that he better watch his back as Justine is one step away from turning this over to Internal Affairs.

COP MADNESS

Next, “Nathan” apologizes for the way he handled the situation with Rocco and says he feels badly. But then in the twist, Dante said that he was grateful that “Nathan” had been there for his son in his time of need (referencing after Rocco shot Cullum and covered it up).

Then, there’s the newest police officer in the precinct, Joe Fitzpatrick (Jonathan Bennett). He may actually be on to “Nathan’s” double life when he questions him about a syringe found in Britt’s room at Bobbie’s. “Nathan” made up a story to counter Joe’s, that he was not aware that his sister was taking anything for her Huntington’s disease diagnosis. Joe called the forensic department lab wanting to know what drug was exactly in the syringe.

Courtesy/ABC

BEFORE YOU GO

At Carly’s (Laura Wright), Valentin (James Patrick Stuart) tells her that he must travel to Geneva to speak to the head of the WSB, named Z. Valentin feels it’s the only way to save Josslyn if he informs Z about Cullum (Andrew Hawkes) being a double agent. Valentin shares with Carly that he has to stop Cullum from bringing his dangerous cold fusion device online. Carly is beside herself. She doesn’t want Valentin to sacrifice himself by turning himself into the organization who has made him a fugitive in the first place. Valentin stands firm that he must meet Z in person.

Knowing that revealing himself to the WSB meant he was likely going back to prison, Valentin asked Carly if she’d get in touch with his daughter, Charlotte so he could say good-bye to her. Next, Carly and Valentin make their way to the bedroom to make love, which may be for the very last time, if Valentin is caught and put back in Steinmauer Maximum Security Prison.

Courtesy/ABC

CAUGHT BY CULLUM

At the same time while at Wydemere, Cullum is talking with one of his WSB operatives. Now, he is pondering if Valentin and Sidwell were working together all along.  Next, Cullum entertains the idea of involving the FBI to locate Britt and Rocco. He says he plans to kill them both once he knows of their whereabouts. Cullum sees the only other threat to the completion of the cold fusion project to be Anna Devane.

Cullum wants to track the location of the unidentified person who called the private clinic in France trying to get in touch with Anna, while pretending to be Kevin Collins. When the agent came back with a report, he says it emanated from a cell tower near Shoreline Road. It’s in the that moment that a light bulb goes on for Cullum! Valentin is in Port Charles and hiding at Carly’s!

So, what do you think of the PCPD cops, Chase, Joe and “Nathan?” Who should Dante fire? Do you think Valentin will go the run?Are you digging Carly and Valentin’s relationship and want it to continue, especially with Finola Hughes on her way back as Anna next month on-screen? Weigh-in via the comment section, and in case you missed it, you can check out our latest interview with Dominic Zamprogna below from his appearance on the Michael Fairman Channel, where he talks the PCPD cops, Rocco on the run, and more.

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Beyond the Gates

BEYOND THE GATES: A Tornado Hits Fairmont Crest Part 1: Eva and Martin on Seriously Injured List

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On the Thursday, June 11 episode of Beyond the Gates the highly-anticipated tornado struck the Fairmont Crest Country Club while Martin Richardson was holding a fundraiser with the most prominent citizens of Genoa City and the D.C./Maryland area attending.

Martin tells the guest that weather reports indicate a tornado warning, and as he tells them to exit the ballroom to safety, the twister strikes sending everyone into peril,. Richardson and Dupree and Abbott family members are calling out for each other as chaos ensues.

Here is who got stuck with who: Dani and Bill are stuck in an elevator and begin to get hot and bothered after trying to escape. Hayley is stuck in a closet with Kyle Abbott and they makeout, and then to pass the time she puts on some tunes and they dance.

Courtesy/CBS

THOSE IN NEED OF MEDICAL ATTENTION

Things are much more serious for Kat and Eva who winds up in a closet but a mental wall comes crashing down upon them. As Kat rails at her sister, Eva says she doesn’t feel well and begins to spit up blood. Kat is a wreck and is trying to deal with her sister’s plight, but they are trapped.

Leslie is helping Anita with her injured ankle, while Vernon goes to try to restore some power, get walkie-talkies and do what he can for everyone inside Fairmont Crest. Nicole and Smitty hear a noise and realize Andre is buried under the rubble in the ballroom. As it turns Andre’s leg was injured when a piece of metal got stuck in it. Ted gets Andre stitched up and tells him to stay put.

The Genoa City contingent can’t locate Victor Newman or Kyle Abbott, as Jack and Diane try to help others. Meanwhile, suddenly yells out that someone is under the tree. Smitty and Nicole gasps as its Martin! He is not moving in and needs medical attention. Smitty fighting back tears asks Martin to squeeze his hand if he can hear him. But there is no response.

Abby Newman worried for the whereabouts of her father, walks away just as chandelier begins to fall from the ceiling, Diane screams out to Abby to watch out. We fade to black.

Beyond the Gates delivered as they had promised, a riveting episode and one of the best soap opera tornadoes harkening back to the days of All My Children. But what did you think of part one? Martin and Eva as the two characters currently most in trouble? What about Dani and Bill getting hot and heavy and Hayley kissin on Kyle? What was your favorite part of part 1? Let us know via the comment section below.

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Video Du Jour

Jonathan Bennett joins the cast of GH as Joe Fitzpatrick. Catch the latest promo! Leave a comment.Leave A Comment

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