News
Y&R's Jess Walton Issues Statement On Beloved Scene Partner & Dear Friend, Jeanne Cooper!

Photo Credit: Kathy Hutchins
What is Genoa City going to be like without its true supercouple? For decades fans have watched with delight as two of the best actresses on daytime television would battle it out, throw cake at each other, love each other, be there for each other, and steal each other’s men!
With the passing of soap icon Jeanne Cooper today, Jess Walton, (who was Cooper’s long time scene partner and one of her dearest friends) issued the following beautiful statement that best exemplifies the kind of grand dame that Jeanne Cooper was.
Jess Walton: “Jeanne Cooper was one of a kind. No one who has ever known her would disagree with that statement. Her life force and energy were legendary. Many a time I marveled as she outlasted the rest of us on late night shoots. She was a moving, inventive, and powerful actress. She was a loving mother and grandmother. She was part warrior, part rabble rouser, part truck driver and part Diva, all wrapped up in one Great Lady. Most of all, to me, she was my friend and I loved her. For the last 26 years, hers was the face I most wanted to see when I came to work. Hers was the energy I most wanted to bounce off of on stage. Hers was the voice that kept me in stitches . And because of all that, hers is the presence I will never in my life forget.”
Soap fans, we know you will miss the scenes between Jess and Jeanne. Share your thoughts on the passing of Jeanne Cooper today, and what you thought of Walton’s statement on the kind of actress and lady that Jeanne was!
Days Of Our Lives
‘Brilliant Minds’ Officially Canceled After 2 Seasons at NBC; DAYS Alum Al Calderon, OLTL Alum Teddy Sears and Zachary Quinto Among the Cast
After languishing on the bubble for months, on Friday, NBC handed down the decision and canceled the medical drama Brilliant Minds after two seasons.
Brilliant Minds stars Zachary Quinto as neurology physician Oliver Wolf, who’s character and the series is inspired by the life and books of neurologist. Oliver Sacks. The series focuses on the medical mysteries of the mind, as Wolf a larger-than-life neurologist and his team of interns explore the last great frontier, the human mind, while grappling with their own relationships and mental health.
The final six episodes of what will now be the end of its second and final season were already set to air beginning on May 27, after being pulled off the network schedule in February as viewership saw a steep decline. Brilliant Minds second season became the lowest-rated drama on linear TV viewing, which didn’t bode well fo a network renewal, although it had its hard core fan base.

Photo: NBC
There are some exceptional notables in the cast along with the talented Quinto that includes Days of Our Lives alum, Al Calderon (ex-Javi Hernandez) who joined the series in its second season as Nurse Nico Silva, and One Life to Live alum, Teddy Sears (ex-Chad Bennett) who plays Wolf’s love interest and fellow physician, Dr. Josh Nichols.
The rest of the talented cast includes: Tamberla Perry, Ashleigh LaThrop, Alex MacNicoll, Aury Krebs, Spence Moore II, Donna Murphy, John Clarence Stewart, and Brian Altemus.
In an ironic twist of fate on Thursday, April 30, Days of Our Lives finally revealed the actor who was Al Calderon’s successor in the role of Javi, when they announced that actor Jacob Martinez had now stepped into the role. Since DAYS tapes ten months ahead of streaming new episode, Calderon left in the spring of 2025, but will be seen in the part for the final part this month, and then on June 20, Martinez debuts as Salem’s new Javi.
Taking to his Instagram with a sorrowful and heartfelt post on the Brilliant Minds cancellation was Teddy Sears who wrote, “Thank you, Brilliant Minds. I got the call today and I didn’t want to hear, but I knew that it would come, You have to be a particular vintage to quote Don Henley from memory, but that’s the line that came to mind earlier today after I got off the phone with our inimitable showrunner Michael Grassi who delivered the news that NBC has cancelled the series”.

Photo: NBC
Sears continued, “To say that I feel sad to be moving on from these stories, this character, and this cast and crew just doesn’t paint the entire picture. I’m sad, sure. But I’m also deeply grateful that I got hired to play this part, so proud of the stories we told, and the other actors I got to play alongside. I’m excited to see what comes next, what adventures await, and terrified to be without a professional home. A quick and heartfelt thank you to everyone, all over the globe, who found us and found themselves in us, in our characters and in our stories. We wouldn’t have been able to tell them without you. And we still have 6 fresh episodes yet to air, and I do hope you tune in enjoy the remainder of the series. They’re the best we’ve done.”
As he wrapped up his sentiments, Sears signed off with, “The more I know, the less I understand. All the things I figured out I have to learn again. I’ve been trying to get down to the heart of the matter. But everything changes…Thank you, Brilliant Minds.”
The medical drama was created and executive produced by Michael Grassi alongside Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, Leigh London Redman, Lee Toland Krieger, DeMane Davis, Jasmine Russ, Henrik Bastin, Jonathan Cavendish, Andy Serkis and Shefali Malhoutra.
So, what do you think of NBC’s decision to cancel Brilliant Minds after two seasons? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
General Hospital
‘General Hospital’s’ Jonathan Bennett Receives 3 ‘Critics Choice Real TV Awards’ Nominations for Hallmark Series, ‘Finding Mr. Christmas’
Many things are coming up roses for Jonathan Bennett! On the heels of the news that he is set to debut this month in the role of Joe Fitzpatrick on General Hospital, who is rumored to be a new love interest for Lucas Jones (Van Hansis), comes the news that Bennett’s reality series, Finding Mr. Christmas has received 3 nomination for the Critics Choice Real TV Awards.
Bennett’s Hallmark Channel series finds itself in tough competition alongside fellow nominees: RuPaul’s Drag Race (MTV), Squid Game: The Challenge (Netflix), Survivor 50 (CBS), Top Chef (Bravo) and The Traitors (Peacock). In addition, Jonathan himself is nominated for Best Show Host and the series participants as the Best Ensemble Cast in an Unscripted Series.
The Critics Choice Association (CCA) revealed the nominees for the eighth annual Critics Choice Real TV Awards on Thursday, which recognize excellence in nonfiction, unscripted and reality programming across broadcast, cable and streaming platforms. Winners will be announced online at CriticsChoice.com on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 9:00am PT/12:00pm ET.

Photo: Hallmark
Taking to his Instagram to celebrate the nominations, GH’s Bennett, enthused, “3 Critic Choice Nominations! I’m so proud of the FINDING MR CHRISTMAS and to be in the company of all the legends in all these categories is so surreal! Congrats to Hallmark Channel and to our nominated cast and nominated show and everyone who made this magical show possible. This is crazy! This gives FMC 6 Critics Choice nominations in 2 years. Not bad for a little show on Hallmark Channel. What are your thoughts on our show?” Jumping first into the comment thread was one of his new GH co-stars, Dominic Zamprogna (Dante) who expressed, “Yeah buddy!!!🔥🔥”
In the series, Bennett, the host and co-creator spends eight weeks guiding 10 aspiring actors through a series of “festive face-offs” and acting challenges alongside actors like soap opera notables, Hunter King (ex-Summer, Y&R) and Alison Sweeney (Sami, DAYS). Along the way, they develop their skills and a bond with one another. The show, which is available on Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Plus, highlights LGBTQ+ representation with openly gay contestants vying to be the next Hallmark star.
It should be noted that Traitors received the most Critics Choice Real TV Award nominations with 6 nods, followed by Dancing with the Stars with 4.
Bennett is very familiar to daytime fans having started his career as JR Chandler on All My Children in 2000-2001, before landing the part of Aaron Samuels in the motion picture, Mean Girls in 2004 starring Lindsay Lohan, which would become his breakout performance.
You can check out the full list of Critics Choice Real TV Award nominations here.
So, excited for Jonathan Bennett’s General Hospital debut this month? Have you ever watched Finding Mr. Christmas on Hallmark? Let us know via the comment section below.
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General Hospital
‘General Hospital’s’ Kelly Thiebaud on Britt and Cassius Sibling Drama, But Who Will Ultimately Blow His Cover?
On the April 30 episode of General Hospital, Britt (Kelly Thiebaud) had some choice words and warning for her brother Cassius Faison (Ryan Paevey) who has been masquerading as his twin, the very dead, Nathan West.
As the story has unfolded, viewers learned that Britt knew all along that when “Nathan” showed up in Port Charles seemingly resurrected with a missing 7 years of his life unexplained, that Cassius was taking his place.
Now in developments on today’s GH, Josslyn Jacks (Eden McCoy) is figuring out that this guy pretending to be Nathan is someone else, and Cassius learns from Britt, that Joss is not just a ditzy sorority girl as he claimed, but a WSB agent! The moment stuns Cassius. Are the walls about to close in on him and his charade?

Courtesy/ABC
Daytime Emmy winner, Kelly Thiebaud spoke to Soap Opera Digest, about the story point and getting the opportunity this time back at GH to work with Ryan Paevey, when she hadn’t had the chance to before.
BROTHERLY LOVE?
Thiebaud expressed on sharing scenes with Ryan Paevey, “It’s just been so wonderful to have him back and to actually work with him! When he first came onto the show (as Nathan at the end of 2013) I was kind of heading out — it was right towards the end of my contract, so we didn’t actually work together a ton. It’s been really refreshing and so much fun to really spend time together and get to know each other and work together. I think we have really great on-camera chemistry and banter with each other. I really enjoy working with him.”
With the stakes at an all-time, Thiebaud explained how she views her on-screen alter-ego’s involvement with her more hot-to-temper sibling and why Britt revealed the truth about Josslyn to him. “People finding out about Cassius would expose what she’s involved in and what she agreed to do,” explains Kelly “And now Josslyn is digging around, and she’s connected to Carly (Laura Wright) to Jason (Steve Burton) and that whole dynamic! It’s messy!”
BRITT’S MURKY FUTURE
Britt has currently also reached her breaking point with Jason being carted away by the WSB, Rocco (Finn Carr), the child she gave birth to, shooting Cullum (Andrew Hawkes) to protect her and Jason, Marco (Adrian Anchondo) being killed after trying to help her, and Cullum holding over her head getting her Huntington’s disease medication to control her symptoms, while blackmailing her into finishing the research on her father, Cesar Faison’s, final project. Thiebaud summed it up best for Britt right now, sharing, “It’s been a really tough time for her.”
So, who do you think will be the person to blow Cassius’ cover? Will it be Britt herself? Josslyn? Liesl? Brennan? Nina? Lulu? Rocco, Maxie, Cullum or someone else? Let us know your pick in the comment section.
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Such beautiful words from Jess. May Jeanne dancing amongst the angels for eternity.
Such sad news. Jeanne will be truly missed. Rest in peace dear Jeanne
That was beautifully said… she is a true friend. I will miss the two of them and their crazy relationship. Y&R will not be the same without Jeanne. She will be missed. My thoughts are with her family and her friends.
What beautiful words that Jess said about her friend. Jeanne (ms c) was one in a million. I have watched y n r since I was 5. I’m 39 now. She will be missed. <3
To the cast and crew of Y&R
I haved watched your show for a long time
My condolences. To you all
Jeanie cooper will be missed
She was an icon
The show will never be the same. Without her.
She was a legend
Kim Cheung 🙂
I remember reading in her memoir about co-stars that were let go suddenly for whatever reason would walk up a staircase in whatever scene they were last seen in. They never
came back downstairs. It was a running joke. How appropriate for Mrs. C to
do the same thing. I’m sad at her passing but I know she is just beginning
her second act. We were blessed and honored to have known such a great woman.
Goodnight Duchess, sleep well.
Oh wow, did not know that– it really does give that scene between her and Jess by the stairs so much more meaning. Looking back I think both of knew it might be their last scene and you could just feel this sadness in the vibe the two were giving off. And it also explains why GH did the same thing when saying goodbye to Edward and Lila- when they had their look a likes going up a staircase, never to come down. It is making me tear up just thinking about it. Thanks for the insight.
Yes, that scene on the stairs was amazingly touching. Now, realizing it was their last one together, I feel weak in the knees. The same applies to the coming home from the hospital scene where she & Murphy were on the sofa & Cane, Lily, Chloe & Esther welcomed her with a toast.
Jess, your statement is a beautiful tribute to a beloved friend & colleague. I’ve watched Y&R for 36 years & feel as if I’ve lost a close family member. She was an amazing woman who led a full & rich life. Thank you, Jeanne for all the years of entertainment ! Much love and may you rest in peace.
Valerie Sawyer
what a second act this should be.
she imparted so much knowledge with her being.
she knew her children would know… just as we fans have garnered her profession.. and likened her personal life just as much.
she imbues the best of us.
I have watched and loved Jeanne Cooper on YR since the first day she appeared on screen. I will miss her there every day from now on. My loving prayers are now for her family.
A beautiful statement by Jess Walton about the beautiful Jeanne Cooper. She will be missed on my TV screen for a long long time Thanks for the memories Mrs C.
I’m a very sorry for everyone in the cast & crew for their loss. Jess’ words were beautifully written & heartfelt. I will miss seeing Jeanne on the screen, she has been a part of my life for over 30 years. Maybe it’s silly but I feel the loss in my heart.
The fabulos Mrs.C will be missed. She has been part of my life since the show began. She was the light of the show. Jess hit the nail on the head about her. All soap fans will miss seeing the two of them battle it out to only love one another in the end. Jeanne’s time in this world has come to an end but her memories will live forever in our hearts. All of us who watched her and loved her will never forget the wonderful, lovable Mrs. C.
The last scene with Jess and jeanne says it all. You could hear in Jess’s voice, it was so much more than acting.
Oh Jess.
You have my deepest sympathy. I know you and Jeanne were the closest of friends in real life.
Beautifully stated Jess.
Such beautiful words from Jess, I knew that scene at the stairs was her last scene because I could see the pain in Jess’s eyes. I said that is not acting that is both of them saying good bye to their working relationship and preparing for a good bye for now in the coming months. I watched it several times and teared up every time. I cant imagine how hard it will be for Jess to come to work each day with her friend and co-worker not there. We the fans support you and will never forget Jeanne, Mrs C the Dutchess and when we see Jill on our screens we will also think of her and of Jess. Thank you for sharing your words with us during this difficult time. HUGS
I also want to point out that it was the perfect scene for it to be her last because it was just her and Jess and that is so very fitting and I couldn’t think of a better ending.
With a very heavy heart, I say R.I.P. As a very long-time viewer of Y&R, I’m so sad . May the family know just what a gem you shared with us over the years
Jess Walton –
“Good Lord” – “her’s was the face I wanted to see.” Tears… emotionally choked up here.
Respect for her tour de force… it was her nature… in her being… to stand with.
What a presence to share and know.
Your time with family in Oregon…. is yours.
you’re a part of ours and we’re with you. Thank You Jess.