Number 4!

Barbra's newest album, What Matters Most: Barbra Streisand Sings The Lyrics Of Alan And Marilyn Bergman, has debuted at number 4 on the charts. While some fans are disappointed it failed to take top position, I think it's still wonderful! Congratulations, Barbra!

Flawless Florencia!

It's been a while, but here we go.  Florencia Lozano  was impeccable as Tea in the scenes where she discovers Victor clinging to life after being shot.  Everything from her pleading for him not to die, to the explosion of grief when he did, was flawless.  In stark contrast to similar scenarios I've seen played out lately, Florencia's performance was measured, calculated, and captivating.  Every guttural scream and bitter tear meant something.  Honestly, there shouldn't even be competition in the Lead Actress category at the Daytime Emmys next year.  Just give her the statue, and call it a day.  Those scenes are going to stay with me for a long time.

Coming Together...

The futures of One Life To Live and All My Children are becoming more clear. According to Soap Opera Network, both soaps are set to begin their online journeys on January 16, 2012. Yet another source is claiming that Prospect Park is trying to entice current cast members to stay by promising them roles on other shows they've created and oversee. If you ask me, I think that's a smart move. At least in the beginning, it's important to keep casts and structure as familiar as possible. Don't know if it'll work, but have to give them kudos for trying. From what I read, an official announcement about all of this could come as soon as Wednesday. We'll see.

There's something I have to get off my chest. From the moment the cancellation of these shows was announced, people have vowed to do whatever necessary to keep them going. Like an answer to a prayer, Prospect Park saves the day. With all the noise about saving the shows by any means, you should think people would be dancing in the streets, right? No. First it was, "It's good that they're continuing, but how can a small production company afford everything needed?" Then it was, "If it doesn't have most of the actors and actresses I'm used to seeing, I'm not wasting my time!" More recently, I've heard, "I don't feel like sitting at my computer everyday, and can't afford one of those expensive internet TVs, so I'm out."

To all the naysayers, I say stop complaining, and wait to see what we're given. As far as the inner workings and behind the scenes stuff is concerned, that's not for us to worry about. Just be grateful these iconic shows, which most of us have spent the majority of our lives watching, have been given a second chance at life. If you love them as much as you claim, you're going to find a way to tune in. If you don't, those of us in it for the long haul don't need to be subjected to all your hot air and negativity. If you don't want a ride, get off before it starts. Please, don't ruin it for the rest of us.

I Called It!

Congratulations to Melanie Moore for winning season 8 of So You Think You Can Dance. From the very start, she was my favorite girl. Once Jess was eliminated, I knew she would take the crown. Like Benji before her, I truly feel it a privilege to watch Melanie dance. Couldn't be happier for her, and hope she returns as an all-star in the coming seasons. Can't wait for season 9!

New Details!

Michael Cerveris has been cast as Juan Peron in the upcoming revival. While I'm not all that familiar with his work, he does have a great voice, and was very enjoyable as Sweeney Todd. Physically, I don't see a resemblance, but I guess the magic of theatre makeup will take care of that. Very excited about this!

In other news, Evita will play Marquis Theatre.

Today!!!

It's finally here! The day I've waited nine long years for! Leo and Greenlee reunite! So many emotions going through me right now. As excited as I am, I know we're only going to get a glimpse of him today. Tomorrow, the real celebration starts. From the little sneaky-peak I've seen, Leo does indeed appear to be alive. Mixed feelings. Josh only returning for a few episodes, I wonder how everything is going to be explained. If he is breathing, why would Leo have stayed away for so long? Does he know where he is? Has David filled his head with lies about the people he loves? One good thing, he recognizes Greenlee in the little clip I saw. Could write speculations about this all day. Can't believe it's actually happening! A dream come true! I'm going to be a blubbering mess!

Incredible!

Soap Opera Digest is reporting that Esta TerBlanche is returning to All My Children! No specifics have been given. I loved Gillian! More importantly, I loved Ryan and Gillian as a couple. Wait! If she and Leo are both alive somehow, does that mean Ryan and Greenlee get to live happily ever after with the loves of their lives?! Doubt it, but it would be incredible!

Reconnecting!

How amazing is this? In the last two weeks, I've reconnected with three old friends! I'm on a bit of a role! I've always been told not to open closed doors and wounds, but in some cases I think it can be good. Helps to exercise demons. Lives change, and it's nice to see if a connection still exists. Don't have any expectations, but cautiously excited.

Noooooooo!!!

Can't believe it! Really thought he was going to be in the finale with Melanie. It was disappointing to see my Jess go, but I'm positive we'll see him again.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Your intention rules your life, and determines the outcome."
-Oprah Winfrey

January...

I don't have the best feeling about this. From what I read in a report this morning, Prospect Park is pushing back All My Children's internet debut to January. This seems to confirm the rumblings, from actors and media alike, that details are far from set in stone. Apparently, PP isn't even sure who's staying or who's going.

In dealing with the uncertainty of the situation, Prospect Park has asked Agnes Nixon and Lorraine Broderick to craft a life or death, Dynasty style cliffhanger, where the life of every Pine Valley resident is on the line. All involved are hopeful that this will be enough to entice viewers to return after the hiatus.

I'm worried. I understand the reasons for the cliffhanger, and think it makes sense at first thought. However, I think that, in the time between air and internet, there's a good chance that people will realize they can function without their shows. Also, I think it was very unprofessional of Prospect Park to give the initial September 26th date. If there were still questions, they had no business putting the cart before the horse. I'm also concerned that they're taking way too long to approach actors and actresses. While I'm anticipating a noticeable difference in feel and presentation, it would be nice to see a few familiar faces. People need to put food on the table, and are not going to wait around forever. Let's get the ball rolling!

You Can Go Home Again!

They just keep coming! ABC is confirming reports that Alexa Havins and Justin Bruening are returning to All My Children in September! It'll be nice to see Jamie take a break from his doctor duties, and come home. Babe? I'm ecstatic! Loved the character when Alexa played her! Don't even want to begin to question how she's going to reappear. Cannot wait!

A Little Trim...

With All My Children moving online, ABC has scrapped plans for a two-hour series finale. I imagine scripts and storylines are being feverishly rewritten and tweaked to make the transition as smooth as possible. In my opinion, this isn't the worst thing in the world. Of course, if AMC were going away for good, I would want a huge sendoff. With it sticking around, I understand the snip to an hour. Time is short. Money is tight. Accommodate.

In related news, Adam and Brooke are only going to be seen a handful of times. Apparently, the original return story was going to last three weeks. However, due to budget constraints, cuts had to be made. Booooo!

Professional?

Jill took these with her new camera last night. Don't they look professionally done? Love the expressions!

August 4th!

Get your various recording devices ready! Josh Duhamel and Leo return August 4th! I know I sound like a broken record, but I'm counting the days! Recent on-screen happenings have my hope of Leo returning alive at an all-time high. Could be wrong, but I think David has his brother hidden somewhere. For those wondering, I've stocked up on tissues. This is going to be unforgettable!

True Love!

Best couple in the history of daytime drama! Leo and Greenlee forever!!!

Quote Of The Moment...

"It's easy to shit on people from a great height, but it's another thing to pull them aside and try to impart knowledge."

-CM Punk

November 11th!

I can't believe it's coming back so soon! Ordered tickets for Tim and I! Front row! Incredible!

4!

Adam, Brooke, Ruth, Joe! All four iconic characters return to Pine Valley one more time! Cannot wait to see Julia Barr and David Canary! This may be blasphemy, but I don't really care about Joe and Ruth. No airdates, or details yet. As a side note, if Prospect Park were smart, they'd do whatever necessary to secure Barr and Canary to deals.

My Two....

I haven't written much about So You Think You Can Dance this season, because I wanted to make sure I was solidly behind some performers first. I am now. As far as the girls go, no one compares to Magnificent Melanie. Everytime she's on the stage, even if I'm not feeling the choreography of a routine, she makes me invest. Absolute perfection!

As far as guys, Jess is the only that matters. Wasn't sure in the beginning, but now I can't get enough. Although styles are different, I get a similar feeling with Jess as I did with Benji. Awe-inspiringly captivating!

They're both so amazing! Can't choose a favorite just yet. Would love to see these two battle it out in the finale.

Aurora

Came across these, and thought I would share. She was definitely beautiful, but could raise hell beyond belief. Would like to get another Siamese someday. Too high maintenance to live in an apartment.

Cameo?

Rumor has original Kendall, Sarah Michelle Gellar, making a cameo appearance on AMC before it says goodbye to television. I think this would be kind of neat. Always makes me feel good when famous alumni acknowledge and embrace their soapy past!

411...

TV Guide Magazine is reporting the latest happenings with the Prospect Park deal. Apparently, they're opting to retain Lorraine Broderick as head writer. This makes me very happy. With someone who knows and respects the history of the show at the helm, the reimagined AMC may just have a chance. Unfortunately, though, the same article goes on to say that PP is also planning on keeping Julie Carruthers as executive producer. I'm trying not to be negative, so all I'll say is that I hope she is kept under close watch, and firmly in check.

While no specific detail regarding actors and actresses is available yet, several sources have reported that Susan Lucci will remain with the show in some capacity. After all, what is All My Children without Erica Kane? Even if her role is drastically reduced, I can't imagine Pine Valley without her.

Oh, I almost forgot the best part. According to the article, All My Children will make its online debut on September 26th! I think this is a very smart move. The quicker all ducks are in a row, the more likely you are to maintain momentum. If that date is for real, I'd think some confirmation about who will continue with the show should come shortly.

It all sounds good, but I won't get too excited until Daytime Confidential confirms.

Labeling And Editing... Editing And Labeling...

Last week, I decided to go through my blog, and add labels to the posts without any. Didn't realize it was going to be such a long process! Along the way, while reading some of them to decide what category they belonged in, I noticed some inexcusable spelling and grammar errors. The ones I caught are fixed, and all labeling is done. Oy!

Morgan Moves On...

As many suspected, daytime Emmy winner Debbi Morgan won't continue with All My Children as it ventures online. Turns out, she's joining the cast of The Young And The Restless. Talented as Ms. Morgan undoubtedly is, I won't cry when Angie bids farewell to Pine Valley. With the exception of the storyline(s) surrounding her return, Angie has done nothing but stick her nose where it doesn't belong. No meat.

Assuming Darnell Williams stays, what exactly does this mean for Jesse? Does AMC cast a new female role? Revive one from the past? Is Jesse paired with someone already on canvas? Total honesty, I wouldn't mind if Angie and Jesse left together.

Hallelujah! It's A Miracle!

The reports from earlier today are all true! All My Children and One Life To Live will continue airing online! I feel like I'm dreaming! I can hardly breathe! The official press release is below!

BURBANK, CA – July 7, 2011 – ABC has licensed its iconic soaps, “All My Children” and “One Life to Live” to Prospect Park, it was announced today by Brian Frons, President, Daytime, Disney/ABC Television Group & Janice Marinelli, President, Disney/ABC Domestic Television and Rich Frank & Jeff Kwatinetz of Prospect Park.

The exclusive multi-year, multi-platform deal enables the soaps’ stories to continue beyond their finale dates on ABC. ABC will broadcast its final episode of “All My Children” on Friday, September 23rd and will air the final episode of “One Life to Live” in January, 2012.

The licensing agreement, brokered by Disney/ABC Domestic Television Group, enables Prospect Park to continue production of “All My Children” and “One Life to Live” beyond their life on ABC. Prospect Park will produce and deliver the two long-running programs to consumers via online formats and additional emerging platforms including internet enabled television sets. Under the terms of the arrangement, the programs will continue to be delivered with the same quality and in the same format and length. Additional details of the new productions and tune-in will be forthcoming from Prospect Park.

“We are privileged to continue the legacy of two of the greatest programs to air on daytime television, and are committed to delivering the storylines, characters and quality that audiences have come to love for over 40 years. ‘All My Children’ and ‘One Life to Live’ are television icons, and we are looking forward to providing anytime, anywhere viewing to their loyal community of millions,” said Frank and Kwatinetz. “Technology changes the way the public can and will view television shows. Now that there are so many devices available in addition to television sets, viewers are taking advantage of watching shows wherever they are and on any number of devices. The driving force in making the switch and attracting new audiences is to have outstanding programs that people want to watch. We believe that by continuing to produce the shows in their current hour format and with the same quality, viewers will follow the show to our new, online network.”

“’All My Children’ and ‘One Life to Live’ are iconic pieces of television history that captivated millions of fans since their beginning over 40 years ago,” said Frons. “Each of the shows have made an indelible mark on our culture’s history and informed our consciousness in their own way. We are so glad Prospect Park has assumed the mantel for these shows and that they will continue for the fans.”

Marinelli continued, “From the time the shift in the daytime strategy was announced, our hope was to find a new home for these treasured shows. We are thrilled to license them to Prospect Park so the stories of life in Pine Valley and Llanview can continue to be told for the passionate and loyal fans that enjoy watching each day.”

“I’m just so happy that ABC found a home where the legacies of ‘All My Children’ and ‘One Life to Live’ can continue. I’m excited for their future with Prospect Park,” added Agnes Nixon, creator of both “All My Children” and “One Life to Live.” “It takes a lot of living to make a soap opera a serial, and the wonderful teams on both shows have done just that. Together, we are a big family that keeps going, and I’m looking forward to working alongside these wonderful people as we ensure that the shows will continue with all the love and excitement we’ve always had. I also am so happy for our loyal fans, whom we love so much, and who have been so supportive over the last 40 plus years.”

Prospect Park is a media and production company founded in 2009 by entertainment industry veterans Jeffrey Kwatinetz and former Disney Studios head Rich Frank. Along with successful film and music divisions, the company’s television group has numerous shows in development and breakout network hits airing, including “Royal Pains” and “Wilfred.”

In April, ABC announced that it was expanding the focus of its daytime lineup to include more programming that is informative and authentic and centers on transformation, food and lifestyle. “The Chew,” an innovative and groundbreaking daily talk show that celebrates and explores life through food, will premiere on September 26th. “The Revolution,” a daily show about health and lifestyle transformations, will replace “One Life to Live” in January 2012."

Developments...

More details are coming to light. Soaps In Depth is reporting, via Twitter, that Prospect Park has acquired the rights to all archival footage from both shows. Apparently, old episodes will be shown online. Soaps In Depth ends the tweet with the hopeful promise that "good news is coming!" More as it becomes available.

Saved?!

Have my prayers been answered?! The New York Post is reporting that online company Prospect Park has acquired the rights to All My Children and One Life To Live. According to the article, each show will maintain casts and crews, and stories will continue exactly where they left off. Doing a little digging, I'm seeing that people are very skeptical. Honestly, I kind of am, too. Why would a reputable source like the New York Post report something so monumental if it weren't true? My head is spinning, and I don't know what to think. If this is indeed true, there's no one happier than me. If for some reason it's not, I'm going to be absolutely destroyed. Don't know about you, but I'm going to be sitting on the edge of my seat for the next couple of days until word comes down either way.

Eight Years In Another World

If this were fifteen years ago, when daytime dramas were still widely expected to continue on forever, I would use this book as a guide in creating my own. While an easy read, Eight Years In Another World is intelligent, and captivating from the start. This book is one of the few I've read where I feel I've been granted an all-access pass to explore behind the scenes. Continuing good points, I absolutely love how Harding Lemay willingly puts his work on display against others, and openly admits when mistakes were made. It's always refreshing to hear both sides of a story told honestly.

One complaint. It's depressing, as a diehard fan of the genre, to constantly have Mr. Lemay referring to it as a lower form of entertainment. While I understand that's how he feels, and respect it, constant reiteration makes one wonder if he realizes who his audience is. If you can overlook that minor flaw, this book is a must-read.

A+

Quote Of The Moment...

"I don't know where any of us would be if everything stayed unforgiven."
-Nick Garrett

October Road!

Love this show so much! Can't believe it only lasted two seasons! So glad I have the DVDs!

Birthday Additions!

You can't tell by the picture, but these two adorable kitties are salt and pepper shakers. Mom got them for me for my birthday!

July 4th!

Such fun yesterday! Early 4th of July celebration!

Lorenzo Llama!

One year ago...

Can't believe it's been a year! I smile when I think about how much my little buddy has enriched my life. It's been awesome! I'm hoping we get at least twenty more!

Casting!

Trai Byers debuts as Mookie this week. Putting the pieces together, you'll likely deduce that he is Maya's abusive boyfriend. This is the kind of thing I've been complaining about of late. Why waste time on peripheral characters, when we have so little left? Here's hoping resolution is swift, and both characters disappear.

In happier news, Verla Grubbs will visit Pine Valley in September. Superfan Carol Burnett will reprise the role, and reportedly share scenes with Susan Lucci, and Jill Larson.

Two Hours?

Numerous sources are reporting that All My Children will get a two-hour series finale on September 23rd. If this is true, I begrudgingly applaud ABC. Very classy! Let's face it, Erica Kane alone deserves a finale! No confirmation yet, but I'll be sure to post the latest.

Love It!

Someone's In The Kitchen...

In honor of Zack Ryder, I decided to put my own twist on a traditional dessert. Ladies and gentleman... BROnies! They're extra delicious if eaten right after spiking your hair, and/or while fistpumping!

Official Track Listing!

The official track listing for Barbra's forthcoming album, What Matters Most: Barbra Streisand Sings The Lyrics Of Alan And Marilyn Bergman, has been released, and is as follows:

1. The Windmills Of Your Mind
2. Something New In My Life
3. Solitary Moon
4. Nice n Easy
5. Alone In The World
6. So Many Stars
7. The Same Hello, The Same Goodbye
8. That Face
9. I'll Never Say Goodbye
10. What Matters Most

The Home Stretch...

Well, my friends, it's the beginning of the end. Lorraine Broderick's writing debuted yesterday. It's amazing how immediate the change was. Character-driven scenes, obvious respect to the past, interweaving stories, it's all there. As if I weren't sad enough about the show ending, yesterday's episode proved how brilliant it can be. Well it may be short, I'll be holding on for dear life, and enjoying every second of the ride.

Revenge!

Cover Art, Release Date!

What Matters Most: Barbra Streisand Sings The Lyrics Of Alan And Marilyn Bergman will be released on August 23rd! Must say, though, I'm not thrilled with the cover art. Maybe, if I hadn't seen this particular photograph a million times, I wouldn't mind. Seriously, how hard is it to take a new picture. So use to Streisand album covers being stunning. Anyway, that's a tiny quibble, and doesn't detract from my excitement in any way. Full, official track list should be released shortly. Cannot wait!

Who To Believe?

Remember that report I posted earlier about Tamara Braun returning to GH? ABC is dismissing it as "false rumor." Who to believe? Soaps In Depth, who is usually pretty on point about news? ABC, who are pathological liars, and say whatever suits them at the time? You decide. Personally, I wouldn't count out a return just yet. I think this is the alphabet network slapping the hand of SID for reporting something before they made an official announcement. No one really cares who broke the news. All this political bullshit is exhausting! There's more to come, I'm sure...

Lily!

Levin Rambin is returning to All My Children. Looks like Lily will pay a visit before Pine Valley goes dark forever. I'm happy for Jack. It'll be nice for him to get to spend time with a daughter who actually cares that he exists. No word yet on airdate, or length of stay.

Better Results...

Soaps In Depth is reporting that daytime favorite Tamara Braun will return to General Hospital this fall. Before everyone falls out, she is not taking over the role of Carly. Apparently, an entirely new role has been created for her. No specifics at this time.

Question. Does anyone in charge at GH remember the epic failure that was Claudia? Fans don't take kindly to actors or actresses returning to their old stomping grounds as a new character. That being said, I absolutely love Tamara, and am sure she will OWN whatever she is given. Who knows, with a new regime in place, maybe this'll be good. One can hope...

So Funny!

Chrishell Stause tweeted the other day.

AMC props guy before a scene at Krystal's:

"Do you have a preference between an omelette or pancakes?"

Chrishell:

"I NEVER want pancakes on this show!"

She is just beyond adorable. Nice to see that someone respects Pine Valley history!

Quote Of The Moment...

"Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor."
-Last Midnight-Into The Woods

New Album In August!

A new studio album, entitled What Matters Most: Barbra Streisand Sings The Lyrics Of Alan And Marilyn Bergman, will be released in August. As of this writing, the album is said to have ten tracks. They include:

Solitary Moon
The Windmills Of Your Mind
The Promise (I'll Never Say Goodbye)
Alone In The World
The Same Hello, The Same Goodbye
What Matters Most

Cover art is confirmed to be a shot from Barbra's book. More specifics as they come. So excited!

Three More!

That's right! Three more beloved Pine Valleyites are set to return!

First, and most important to me, Melissa Claire Egan steps into Crazy Annie's shoes one more time. Just seeing her again is fabulous, but I sincerely hope Annie has gotten her shit together. Honestly, I wouldn't even mind her taking Emma and leaving to start a new life. If she does, I hope it's with Ryan's blessing, and isn't a cliche kidnapping. Annie deserves a happy ending.

Next on the parade of psychos, Kate Collins as Janet. Total honesty, I don't see the point in this one. Why exactly would she return? We don't need to see her trying to convince Amanda to leave Jake again. Been there, done that. I suppose it would be nice to have Janet finally come to the realization that Amanda is happy with her life, surrender her obsession, and wish her daughter happiness. If I were writing, Amanda would go batshit, and join her mother in Oakhaven. The seeds are already being planted.

Lastly, Jennifer Bassey, and Marian. I love Miss Bassey. She definitely gets the Kim Zimmer award for spinning gold out of crap. Will be very interesting to see how Marian impacts the canvas. Would be nice if she took Liza with her when she leaves again.

All three returns are set for the week of July 24th.

Fearless 2011!

I don't even know what to say about this event. Let me start from the beginning. Tim and I fought our way through ridiculous Boston traffic, and still managed to make it to the building early. A gentleman was kind enough to let us in ahead of everyone, and we even got to see some of the last minute rush. Jon Davis took a minute out of the craziness to pose for a picture. So cool! As Tim and I made our way to our seats, we were lucky enough to run into booker Gabe Sapolsky. Saying it was an honor to meet him doesn't even begin to describe how I felt as he signed my t-shirt. Mindblowing!

As for the in-ring action, absolutely awe-inspiring. The privilege of seeing that artistry live is the reason I get up in the morning. No joke! Johnny Gargano, and CIMA, chatted and signed autographs after the show. Sharing the experience with my best friend made it absolutely perfect! I felt like the luckiest cripple alive that night! I'll say it forever! Dragon Gate USA is in a class all its own! Nothing will ever compare!

Early Favorites...

So, the top twenty have been chosen. As has happened with every previous season, I have my favorites.

Iveta Lukosiute
Chris Koehl
Jess LeProtto
Wadi Jones
Sasha Mallory
and...
Melanie Moore

Honestly, this is the strongest top twenty I've seen. Season 8 is going to be amazing!