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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!
Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady, Days of our Lives) is jumping head first into the celebrity podcast rage with the launch of hers entitled, Between Takes with Alison Sweeney.
In between her busy schedule of Hallmark Channel movies, features, TV appearances and returns to Days of our Lives, Sweeney will now feature special guests each episode as previewed in her Instagram video clip announcing the new podcast series.
Accompanying her video, Sweeney expressed, “Trying something new! Check out my new podcast. Just fun casual chats with my friends. Links are in my bio.”
Photo: Hallmark
The first episode features former DAYS star and Hallmark Channel mainstay, Victor Webster (ex-Nicholas Alamain). It was back from 1999-2000 that Victor first appeared on the then NBC soap opera.
As previously reported, Sweeney will be reprising her role of Sami on Days of our Lives, next summer in June when she returns along with several fan favorites for a story arc.
During Alison’s premiere of “Between Takes,” Webster shares stories of his time on DAYS, being a proud dog dad, and globetrotter, plus working on action scenes and for Victor, taking over from The Rock in the the Scorpion King franchise appearing in Scorpion King 3: Battle For Redemption. Alison and Victor also chat about their time on sets.
You can listen to Between Takes with Alison Sweeney on all major podcast streaming platforms; including Apple Podcasts here.
So, will you be checking out Alison’s podcast as it continues to grow? Intrigued who from Days of our Lives and the soaps might chat it up with her in future episodes? Let us know in the comment section.
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The 53rd annual Daytime Emmys red carpet was filled with the leading ladies of soap opera, with an array of styles, looks and fashion trends: from bright vibrant colored gowns, plenty of sequins, pantsuits, retro looks, to fashion-forward and more.
From many an Emmy newcomer to the carpet with the stars of Beyond the Gates making their first-ever appearances on daytime’s biggest night, to veteran fan favorites, to the nominees and the guest stars, these women walked the carpet showing off their 2026 fashion sensibilities to the paparazzi.
Let’s take a look at some of the noteworthy looks starting with pictured above: Beyond the Gates star and now Emmy winner, Ambyr Michelle (Eva Thomas), Days of our Lives’ Abigail Klein (Stephanie Johnson), and Sal Stowers (Lani Price Grant), General Hospital’s Katelyn MacMullen (Willow Tait) and alum and nominee Eva LaRue (ex-Natalia Rogers Ramirez).
DRESSED TO IMPRESS
Now below, check out some of the other red carpet looks from the actresses of Beyond the Gates, Days of our Lives, General Hospital, The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless, and then you can let us know in the comment section the answer to our question, “Who’s got the look?”
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
General Hospital’s Amanda Setton, a first-time Emmy nominee for her work as Brook Lynn Quartermaine, looked beautiful in burgundy.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
The Belle of the Ball: Beyond the Gates star Tamara Tunie wowed the red carpet, and later took home her first Lead Actress Daytime Emmy for her role as Anita Dupree.
Photo: NATAS
Y&R star, Hayley Erin (Claire) look stylish and in the popular burgundy dress color trend on the carpet.
Photo: NATAS
General Hospital’s Kelly Kruger (Serena Baldwin) dressed in black and brought elegance to the carpet.
Photo: NATAS
Y&R star, Christel Khalil (Lily Winters) looked stunning in this olive green dress and matching handbag and earrings.
Photo: NATAS
General Hospital’s Alexa Havins (Lulu Spencer) also dressed in sophisticated black with embroidered top and sarong dress.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Days of our Lives’ Cherie Jimenez (Gabi Hernandez), who always wows on the carpet, did so again this year in a pearl white gown.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Beyond the Gates’ Rhonni Rose Mantilla’s (Chelsea Hamilton) in a cobalt blue dress making her first appearance on a Daytime Emmys red carpet.
Photo: NATAS
General Hospital’s Kristen Vaganos (Molly Lansing-Davis) in a pale peach dress took to the Emmys red carpet.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
General Hospital’s Braedyn Bruner (Emma Drake), a first-time Daytime Emmy nominee, showed youth with elegance.
Photo: NATAS
General Hospital’s Maura West (Ava Jerome) and Cynthia Watros (Nina Reeves), both past Lead Actress Daytime Emmy winners, were on-hand to root on this year’s nominee in the category and for their show, which ultimately won Outstanding Drama Series.
Photo: JPI
Three-time Daytime Emmy winner, Michelle Stafford (Phyllis Summers) of The Young and the Restless definitely had people turning heads during the red carpet arrivals.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Y&R’s Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea Lawson) took to the red carpet also in a black dress with her latest hairstyle!
Photo: Hutchins Photo
The one and only Finola Hughes (Anna Devane, General Hospital) opted for a sleek, yet comfortable style for the 2026 Daytime Emmys.
So, who do you think wore it best from the women on this year’s Daytime Emmys Red Carpet? Let us know your thoughts and picks via the comment section below.
General Hospital
‘General Hospital’ Alum Jeff Kober Accepts His Daytime Emmy Award After Being Unable to Attend the Ceremony
Last night at the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards, Jeff Kober’s name was called as the winner of the Outstanding Guest Performer in a Daytime Drama Series for his role as murderer and all around misunderstood bad guy, Cyrus Renault on General Hospital.
Kober added a second Daytime Emmy to his collection for playing Laura Collins’ Genie Francis) half-brother. He previously won in the Best Supporting Actor category in 2022. He was also nominated the year prior.
Due to appearing in a “theater gig,” the actor revealed in a videotaped acceptance speech why he couldn’t be at the Hollywood Palladium on October 30 for the livestreamed ceremony.
Photo: ABC
In his acceptance speech, Kober shared, “I want to say thank you to all of the actors who made this happen, and thank you especially to GH and my GH family. What a treat it has been to be with them. Sorry I wasn’t there last night. I had a prior commitment with a theater gig.”
He added, “I’m really sorry I didn’t get to see Genie (Francis) and the recognition by the Emmys she so richly deserves. Love you guys. Oh, also, congratulations to my pal, Roger Howarth (Matt, Y&R, and ex-Franco, GH). Maybe now GH will bring our characters back from the dead. Who knows? I see a storyline. Love to all. Thanks.”‘
Photo: JPI
Last night, Genie Francis received the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Academy of Television of Arts and Sciences for her body of work since she joined GH initially in 1977 as a young teenaged Laura Vining.
Meanwhile, Howarth made history for the longest gap between Emmy wins for actors. It had been 32 years since he won Outstanding Younger Actor for his performance as Todd Manning in One Life to Live back in 1994.
You can check out Jeff Kober’s video acceptance speech below. Then let us know, what you think about the idea of Cyrus Renault returning from the dead, via the comment section.
Roger Howarth Reflects on Daytime Emmy Win, 32-Year Record Gap, and Embracing Matt Clark on ‘The Young and the Restless’ (Exclusive)
Y&R’s Bryton James and Christel Khalil Crossover to ‘Beyond the Gates’ (Sneak Peek)
DAYS Favorite Alison Sweeney Launches New Podcast ‘Between Takes’
‘Days of our Lives’ Fall Preview Reveals Sofia Mattsson as Chloe Lane and New Storyline Twists!
2026 Daytime Emmys Red Carpet: Dashing Duos – Who’s Got the Look? (Photos)
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards Winners: ‘General Hospital’ Takes Drama Series, Tamara Tunie and Scott Clifton Top Acting Honors
Who Should Win Outstanding Lead Actor at the 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards? (Poll)
Could Justin Bruening Join ‘General Hospital’? Set Visit with Wife Alexa Havins Stirs Fan Hopes
Y&R’s Jason Thompson and Mark Grossman Deliver the ‘Power Performances of the Week’
Who Should Win Outstanding Daytime Drama at the 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards? (Poll)
Y&R’s Bryton James and Christel Khalil Crossover to ‘Beyond the Gates’ (Sneak Peek)
‘Days of our Lives’ Fall Preview Reveals Sofia Mattsson as Chloe Lane and New Storyline Twists!
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Brennan’s Body is Found, Heather Makes Her Reentry into Port Charles
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Heartfelt Speech He Had Planned If He Had Won Lead Actor at the Daytime Emmys
‘General Hospital’ Alum Jeff Kober Accepts His Daytime Emmy Award After Being Unable to Attend the Ceremony
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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.