THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS Will Air Jeanne Cooper Tribute On Tuesday, May 28!
The Young & the Restless will air a special tribute episode to the late Jeanne Cooper on Tuesday, May 28, (12:30-1:30 p.m. ET; 11:00 a.m.-12:00 Noon PT) on CBS. Cast members, friends and family of the beloved actress will gather on set next week to shoot a celebration of the life of their late friend who passed away this week at the age of 84. Cooper, the Emmy Award-winning actress who portrayed Katherine Chancellor for more than 39 years, is the show’s longest-running cast member.
As part of the tribute episode, the cast of The Young & the Restless will share their favorite memories of working with Cooper, along with personal recollections of their friendships with her. Additionally, interviews with Cooper from the show’s recent 40th anniversary and classic clips of her years on the daytime drama will be included.
“Jeanne Cooper was a legend and we want to give her the tribute she deserves,” said Angelica McDaniel, Senior Vice President, Daytime CBS. “The cast will honor their longtime friend, family member and co-worker in the greatest way possible, as we celebrate her life and vibrant spirit and share it with the audience who loved her as much as we did.”
The Young & the Restless, recently nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Daytime Drama, has been the #1-rated daytime drama for more than 24 years
Brenda Dickson — who originated the role of Jill Foster Abbott on The Young and the Restless during the Golden Age of soaps — says she ended up broke and homeless after being blacklisted from Hollywood by legendary daytime producer William J. Bell.
In her new book, My True Hidden Hollywood Story, Dickson, now 64, also claims Bell enlisted “Mafia cartel judges and attorneys” to ruin her.
Now, nearly 30 years later, “I am fighting back,” she tells The Post.
Dickson became one of the biggest stars in daytime when Y&R debuted in 1973.
The former Miss California claims she began an affair with Bell — who was more than twice her age — soon after, when she was just 21.
Dickson was fired 15 years later and says she has been blocked from working ever since.
Bell — who later created The Bold and the Beautiful — died from complications of Alzheimer’s in 2005 at age 78.
A rep from his production company declined to comment.
Jeanne Cooper's death prompted an outpouring of love and support from the soap opera industry and beyond on Wednesday. Check out a roundup of reaction including official statements and on social networking sites.
Official Statements:
Corbin Bernsen (ex-Todd, Y&R; ex-Durant, GH) & Family: "A beacon of light guiding us all toward humanity, humility, and equality has been extinguished but a shimmer of it will always remain as reminder from her to us all of a kinder world that is here for us each to embrace feed and make flourish in a way her truest work has just begun for us to honor her vision and make that her legacy. One of the last great Broads in our business - Jeanne Cooper (84 years old) - Mom - is now stirring up trouble in great beyond."
Jess Walton (Jill, Y&R): "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."
Lee Phillip Bell (Y&R co-creator): "JEANNE COOPER: respected colleague, industry icon, woman of passion and grandeur; most important, beloved friend. She was a shining beacon. Her love was unexpendable, and was given freely to all, from fans to great celebrities. She was not jaded by success, nor impressed by wealth and fame. Her crowning glory was her family: her children Corbin, Collin and Caren and her grandchildren, whom she adored, and all of whom adored her in return. Her presence resonated in the lives of all those around her. Through her personal and professional journey, she saved hundreds, possibly thousands, from the depths of alcoholism. She embodied compassion and forgiveness. No daytime icon has ever been more influential in the lives of millions. She will be terribly missed, but her light will shine on forever. May angels guide you on your journey, dear Jeanne. I will love you forever."
Eric Braeden (Victor, Y&R) Statement: "She was an absolute joy to work with. We never did a scene without having laughs. After a painful struggle she has finally found peace. I will miss working with her a lot."
Lauralee Bell (Christine, Y&R): "Jeanne was the matriarch of the show in every sense of the word. When you did work you were proud of, you'd hope for approval or a "good job" from Jeanne as a child would from a parent. When things got too tense, she'd break the tension with her amazing wit. She would teach the younger actors without ever talking down to them. In fact, she would raise them up. She always had my back and my parents (and our whole family) always had hers. I am so grateful that Jeanne and I were on "Marie" together last month with my mom -- what a gift to sit next to her and hold hands. When she saw me breaking down watching a clip of my late dad, she rescued me on camera by speaking of her gratitude towards him and the ways he had helped her. She squeezed my hand harder and had my back yet again. Like everything else Jeanne did, she was very brave. I know she was the light of her family. I will miss her so much!"
Kate Linder (Esther, Y&R): "My heart is breaking for Jeanne Cooper's wonderful family and for all of us who truly loved Jeanne through the years. Jeanne was my mentor and an amazing actress and friend. We've been through so much together and I loved her like family. She and Bill Bell were the two people most responsible for my career on "Y & R." and the world is a darker place without them. When Jeanne welcomed you into her life, you knew it and it was a fantastic feeling. This is truly the end of an era, not just for fans of "The Young and the Restless" but for all of the people she touched throughout her long and distinguished career and life. She's always been larger than life and an inspiration to me and so many others. I can't imagine a world without Jeanne Cooper -- it won't be the same without her fighting spirit and lust for life and to say she will be missed is an understatement for what we are all feeling today."
Doug Davidson (Paul, Y&R) Statement: "She was one of a kind and she held my hand for 35 years. She helped me be a better actor, husband, parent, and friend. My life was so enriched having known her. She was such a loving, kind soul. With Jeanne, there was no judgment, no rules. She loved you for you. She always had time for you and was so gracious with her love. For me, she was a personal giant, an sublime example of how to behave on planet Earth. I will miss her more than I can describe. I will say with certainty, that Heaven just got a hell of a lot more interesting! ....God's speed, my dear friend. I love you."
Bradley Bell (B&B executive producer/head writer): "Jeanne Cooper - A genuine person, gifted performer, good friend to all. Never before and never again. A true artist and legend. She will be missed. My thoughts and my love are with her family."
Reaction from Twitter and Facebook:
Tracey E. Bregman (Lauren, Y&R): "@corbinbernsen I am beyond sad and so grateful for every minute I had with her. Love to you all. Oxox"
Joshua Morrow (Nick, Y&R): "These hallowed halls will never be the same :("
Michael Muhney (Adam, Y&R): "She lived a long life. She kicked her fair share of asses. The world just got a little less feisty today. You'll be missed, Jeanne Cooper."
Bobbie Eakes (ex-Macy, B&B et al): "My condolences to the family of the wonderful Jeanne Cooper. This is a sad day for me. Jeanne, you will be greatly missed."
Martha Madison (ex-Belle, DAYS): "Prayers up for Ms. Cooper! A legend!"
Eric Braeden (Victor, Y&R): "I am deeply saddened by Jeanne’s passing! She had struggled enormously to the very end! She loved her fans, & we all loved working with her! It feels like the end of an era! Everyone here is just deeply saddened! I loved working with her! We always had some laughs! She had a very loving family around her! Corbin and Collin and Caren and their loved ones were always at Jeanne’s side!"
Lauralee Bell (Christine, Y&R): "Jeanne took me under her wing from the moment I started Y&R. A friend, teacher, mother figure, a true joy. I will miss her so! #YR40."
Thom Bierdz (ex-Phillip, Y&R): "my friend, the great Jeanne Cooper has finished her earth existence at this time. The last time I saw her was in 2011, when this photo was taken. I told her that night how great she was so many times that her sister told me to stop kissing her ass. But I thought it may be the last time I see her and wanted to let Jeanne know, as an intelligent man who could see a big picture, just how much she had accomplished, and how many people thought about her in such reverence. Few people accomplish what she did, and as a driven man, I respect that most about Jeanne. But I also knew her personally, and we spent so many hours in her dressing room over the decades, just the two of us, talking about very personal stuff. She loved and touched so many people across the globe. I am just one. And eternally grateful to have shared this time, space, existence, dream, with her... Jeanne, may you see how bright you are/were..."
Barbara Crampton (ex-Leanna, Y&R): "RIP Jeanne Cooper. Amazing talent. Beautiful person. Intuitive. Kind. No one did classy and ballsy as well as she...xo Jeanne Cooper was gracious & welcoming to new players on the set. Extras, day players, to me. She made me feel like family on the first day."
Heather Tom (Katie, B&B; ex-Victoria, Y&R): "Just heard abt Jeanne cooper-my heart goes out to her family-she was an amazing lady-a true class act-I learned so much from her. Her grace and commitment to the work was an inspiration to us all-I will never forget her advice, support and encouragement."
Daniel Goddard (Cane, Y&R): "I am just crushed to hear that #JeanneCooper has passed away. We have lost an icon. She was the grand dame, a beautiful soul who touched the lives of millions. I am honored and so privileged to have been part of her miraculous life... and she will always be in my heart."
Marco Dapper (Carmine, Y&R): "Jeanne Cooper, you will be missed. Love you so much, you were such an inspiration to life! Godspeed Jeanne. Fare the well beautiful lady! Godspeed Jeanne Cooper."
Robin Strasser (Dorian, OLTL): "Sadly learned the GREAT Jeanne Cooper has passed. An enormous talent-energizing rooms by walking in. She lived a life to be celebrated."
Scott Reeves (ex-Steve, GH; ex-Ryan, Y&R): "Rest peacefully @Jeannecooper1. We love you and look forward to singing a new song. Psalm 23."
Jeff Branson (ex-Ronan, Y&R): "The world lost one of its original Dames today. To say Jeanne will be missed is a vast understatement. Love you Jeanne."
Tammin Sursok (ex-Colleen, Y&R; Jenna, PLL): "Rest in peace #JeanneCooper. You were always so kind to me. You are now the brightest angel in heaven."
Lindsay Bushman (ex-Summer, Y&R): "Can’t express how blessed I am to have worked with such a firecracker and icon. She willbe missed!@Jeannecooper1 #YR"
Ronn Moss (ex-Ridge, B&B): "Jeanne Cooper, your inspiration and generosity of positive spirit will live on in our hearts always. Thank you, my friend, for all you are. Love and Light… R"
Melissa Ordway (Abby, Y&R): "My thoughts and prayers are with Jeanne Cooper and her family. The world lost wonderful lady and talent. Thank you for being an inspiration."
Colleen Zenk (ex-Barbara, ATWT): "Just heard about Jeanne Cooper’s death. Never forget having lunch with her in ‘11. What a fab dame. And a helluva actress. Rest now, Jeanne." She later added: "Have been reading all the Jeanne Cooper accolades. Wish I had know her better. What a deep loss for the Daytime community. #whatanoriginal
Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea, Y&R): "Heaven just gained one feisty angel. RIP the beautiful Jeanne Cooper."
Steve Burton (Dylan, Y&R): "A legend may pass but their light never goes out. #RIPJeanne My prayers are with her family."
Michelle Stafford (Phyllis, Y&R): "No Words..."
Galen Gering (Rafe, DAYS): "My deepest condolences go out to @corbinbernsen and all of your family and everyone at @YandR_CBS. Jeanne was an amazing woman."
Ian Buchanan (Duke, GH): "Good night #JeanneCooper. You will be missed. Xoxox"
Frank Valentini (EP, GH): " Daytime has lost a legend. Our thoughts are with Jeanne Cooper’s family. Love and sympathy from everyone at GH."
Angelica McDaniel (Head of CBS Daytime): "Jeanne Cooper was a TV icon who touched millions and will live on in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with her family."
Emme Rylan (Lulu, GH; ex-Abby, Y&R): "This is truly a sad day for daytime. Rest in peace beautiful Jeanne Cooper. Sending love and prayers to her loved ones. #YR"
Jill Farren Phelps (Y&R EP): "It is with immeasurable sadness and our deepest condolences to her family, that The Young and the Restless mourns the loss of our beloved Jeanne Cooper."
Michelle Stafford (Phyllis, Y&R): "There are some people in the world who are just magical...Jeanne Cooper was one of those people #Legend #ripjeanne #originalbadass #beauty"
Hayley Erin (ex-Abby, Y&R): "Wow, rest in peace Jeanne Cooper"
Sean Kanan (A.J., GH): "Dearest Jeanne Cooper has passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family. Sleep with the angels."
Crystal Chappell (Danielle, B&B): "My condolences to Jeanne's family. What a divine lady she was..."
Drew Cheetwood (Max, GH): "Very sad to hear Jeanne Cooper has passed away..my thoughts and prayers go out to her family..daytime has lost a titan.."
Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke, B&B): "So sorry to hear about Jeanne Cooper. She was an amazing person, mother, and actress! She is an inspiration to all! Love u Jeanne! Miss u!"
Sonya Eddy (Epiphany, GH): "Sending my prayers to Jeanne Cooper's family and loved ones today. She was a class act & a truly great lady..."
Andy Cohen (WATCH WHAT HAPPENS LIVE): "RIP Jeanne Cooper - a daytime LEGEND! And one of the most fun broads you could ever hope to meet!"
Adrienne Frantz (ex-Amber, B&B/Y&R): "My beautiful friend Jeanne Cooper passed away this morning. I am heartbroken! I love you so much Jeanne! Now coolest strongest angel ever!!!"
Adrianna Léon (ex-Brook Lynn, GH; ex-Colleen, Y&R): "@corbinbernsen Corbin, my heart, thoughts, love & prayers r with u & ur family. I adored ur mother & will forever cherish the memories that I have of her. Not only was she full of life, absolutely hilarious, an inspiration & one hell of a feisty/bold. presence but she took me under her wing & offered so much love, care, realism, support and amazing advice. She was a great woman and I consider myself very lucky to have shared that time with her. My sympathies for your loss. Huge hugs to you and yours. Xxoxo- Adrianna Leon"
Shenell Edmonds (ex-Destiny, OLTL): "RIP Jeanne Cooper. Soap Legend. Grew up watching Mrs. Chancellor with my gramma. @Official_YandR"
Samantha Bailey (ex-Summer, Y&R): "I am so saddened to hear that Jeanne Cooper passed away today. She is a legend! I loved seeing her and she gave the greatest hugs! Y&R won't be the same without her. Love you Jeanne!!! This isn't goodbye.... it is simply see you later."
Max Ehrich (Fenmore, Y&R): "The amazing Jeanne Cooper will be missed immensely.
Daniel Polo (ex-Jamie, Y&R): Hollywood has lost a legend.Very sad to hear about Jeanne Cooper's passing. Thoughts/Prayers with her family/friends & everyone at Y&R #YR40"
Gina Tognoni (ex-Kelly, OLTL; ex-Dinah, GL): "A dear sweet soul has passed today. I admired your strength and style- rest in peace- J. Cooper. You were always kind and bigger than life- you will be missed. God Bless your entire family, at home and in TV land-"
Steve Mosko (President, Sony Pictures Television): "Jeanne Cooper was a legend in daytime and a beloved member of our Y&R family," said Steve Mosko, president of Sony Pictures Television. "She touched the lives of millions, who watched her every day over the past 40 years. We send our sincerest condolences to her family as we also celebrate her wonderful life."
Jon Lindstrom (ex-Kevin, GH): "This was a good woman. Very sorry to see her go. But, what a life!"
Lisa Rinna (ex-Billie, DAYS): "RIP dear Jeanne Cooper. She was a mentor to me and I will be forever Grateful for her kindness. She was a Broad and she taught me a lot!"
Eileen Davidson (Kristen, DAYS; ex-Ashley, Y&R): "@YandR_CBS So sad 2 hear our Jean has gone.I'm happy & proud 2 have not only known this amazing woman but 2 have worked with her. #1ofakind"
Hunter King (Summer, Y&R): "We will miss you Jeanne Cooper. You are such an inspiration for all of us."
Don Diamont (Bill, B&B; ex-Brad, Y&R): "I just love Jeanne and have so much respect for her. She was such a supporter of mine when I started at Y&R as a young, green actor. That always meant so much to me. She was truly one-of-a-kind. This next saying is used far too often but is truly applicable in her case: when they made Jeanne Cooper they broke the mold."
Robert Newman (ex-Josh, GL) on FB: "Just got off the plane at JFK and heard about Jeanne Cooper from Y&R passing away. 84 years young and a true professional. A great loss. Love and prayers to her family." And later on Twitter: "Thoughts and prayers out to the family of Jeanne Cooper. And to her @Official_YandR family as well. A true pro."
Jen Lilley (ex-Maxie, GH): "Sad to hear about #JeanneCooper's passing. She was dearly loved by millions and a great asset to soaps!"
Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis, GH): "Today Heaven welcomed one fiesty, spirited, brilliant Diva. Jeanne Cooper's light will never go out. Thank God."
Eric Martsolf (Brady, DAYS): "Rest in peace #JeanneCooper . A true Veteran of what we do."
Shemar Moore (ex-Malcolm, Y&R): "Today. JEANNE COOPER passed away.. She played "MRS CHANCELOR" on The Young and The Restless.. She is a Legend. She made me laugh! All Love!!"
Marlee Matlin (Melody, SWITCHED AT BIRTH): "Dear @corbinbernsen so sorry to read about the passing of your dear mother. #JeanneCooper was pure class and she WAS Y&R. xoxo Marlee"
Kate Linder (Esther, Y&R): "Thank u all for ur love & support. I'm crushed to lose my mentor, friend & co-worker. Sweet dream, Jeanne. My love to ur family!"
Ashley Jones (Bridget, B&B): "My heart goes out to Jeanne Cooper's family, friends and all her fans. What a legend! Blessed to have had the opportunity to work with her."
Eden Riegel (Bianca, AMC): "I am terribly sad to hear of #JeanneCooper's passing. What a fine lady she was. Talented, huge heart, funny as hell, and sexy to the end."
Victoria Rowell (ex-Dru, Y&R): "Jeanne Cooper & I had many conversations on & off set about a lot of topics. She even joined me in Boston w/Shemar Moore. We had a ball! Jeanne Cooper: a woman of substance."
Kristoff St. John (Neil, Y&R): "And, through the darkness of the clouds, I swore that I saw my friend. Holy rays of sunshine. #JeanneCooper"
Melina Kanakaredes (ex-Eleni, GL): "Dear @corbinbernsen wishing you & ur family love & light. I adored Ur mom & loved spending time with her when I was on GL! Xo Melina"
Sarah Brown (ex-Madison, DAYS; ex-Carly, GH, ex-Claudia, GH): "Jeanne Cooper, lighting up my TV since I was 12 years old. She'll be missed by so many. Flirting with the angels now, rest in peace Jeanne"
Rebecca Budig (ex-Greenlee, AMC): "RIP @Jeannecooper1 Incredible actress"
Diana DeGarmo (ex-Angelina, Y&R): "Just heard the devastating news about the 1 & only Jeanne Cooper's passing. My love goes out to all of her family and friends-heart breaking"
Lauren Koslow (Kate, DAYS): "#JeanneCooper Rest in Peace gallant lady, I still remember your kind & encouraging words …on my first very first job #YR"
Jacklyn Zeman (ex-Bobbie, GH): "RIP @jeannecooper1 @corbinbernsen God Bless. May the love and the light within you continue to shine, always."
Christel Khalil (Lily, Y&R): "Lost a legend today. Jeanne Cooper who was an incredible woman, mom, grandmother, and actress. She was a firecracker and always spoke her...Mind which I admire more than anything. With Jeanne, what you saw is what you got. You will be missed, Katherine Chancellor will be missed.. I'm glad she lived a long full life. If only we all can be so lucky."
Ricky Paull Goldin (ex-Jake, AMC): "Wondering how WE will manage. Goodnight to the beautiful Jeanne Cooper."
Linda Dano (ex-Felicia, AW; ex-Rae, OLTL): "My early birthday celebration with good friends. I am so lucky. We toasted Jeanne Cooper pic.twitter.com/cJ4wIBDVYg"
Jacqueline MacInnes (Steffy, B&B): "So sad to hear about Jeanne Cooper's passing this morning. What a kind & talented woman. My thoughts & prayers are with her family & friends"
Melissa Reeves (Jennifer, DAYS): "so blessed to have had some sweet moments with jeanne cooper;) she is unforgettable. prayers for her family"
David Hasselhoff (ex-Snapper, Y&R): "SAD DAY Jeanne Cooper of THE Y&R passing away She was my mentor & loyal friend and Ill never forget her. Love to her family @corbinbernsen"
Darin Brooks (ex-Max, DAYS): "RIP Jeanne...you will be missed... @YandR_CBS @Official_YandR"
Lawrence St.Victor (Carter, B&B; ex-Remy, GL): "My sincerest condolences and heartfelt prayers go out to Jeanne Cooper's family and friends."
CBS Daytime: "The CBSDaytime family mourns the loss of our matriarch and beloved Jeanne Cooper. Her legacy will live on in our hearts forever."
Leslie Charleson (Monica, GH): "Daytime has lost one of it's brightest stars today. My heart goes out to the Cooper/Bernsen family."
Ron Carlivati (HW, GH): "My sincerest condolences to the colleagues, family & friends of @Jeannecooper1 AKA the one and only Katherine Chancellor from #YR. #GH"
Angell Conwell (Leslie, Y&R): "Her warm spirit, sincere hugs, bright smile, great sense of humor & timeless talent will never be forgotten ❤ #JeanneCooper"
Laura Wright (Carly, GH): "Sad sad day. RIP Jeanne Cooper. Love and prayers to your family. Hugs to all Y&R fans xo"
Jessica Collins (Avery, Y&R): "A very sad day for all of us. You will be deeply missed Jeanne Cooper"
One Life to Live (@onelifetolive): "We’re sad to hear that the soap world has lost a true legend today. Our hearts go out to the family of Jeanne Cooper."
All My Children (@allmychildren): "The Soap world has lost a true legend. Our hearts are heavy. Jeanne Cooper, you will be missed!"
When the Daytime Emmy nominations were announced, THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS' Michael Muhney (Adam) was actually on his way to the set when he found out he'd been nominated for Lead Actor. "I got a text from an old friend in high school," he reveals. "He was watching GOOD MORNING AMERICA and he cursed me for making him drop his coffee when he heard my name!"
Muhney submitted an episode where Adam had dramatic interaction with Chelsea, Victor, Phyllis and Sharon so there would be a nice blend, but doesn't expect he has much of a chance to take home the trophy on Emmy night. "I'd have to say that Jason Thompson (Patrick, GENERAL HOSPITAL) has an 80% chance of winning," he declares. "Then, it's almost a toss up between Peter Bergman (Jack) and Doug Davidson (Paul) because they delivered some fantastic stuff. I shouldn't win — and I won't — but the most humbling thing for me is to be nominated and to be mentioned with three guys who gave such stellar performances."
Hunter King (Summer) was blown away to find herself up for Younger Actress. "It's so amazing to be nominated," she says, "especially a first nomination for when I've been on the show for only nine months, it's incredible. I'm so grateful for this opportunity and to be a part of something like this."
The episode she submitted was a heart-to-heart between Summer and Phyllis where the troubled teen opened up to her mother about why she had turned into a bully. "I picked that one not only because it was a good scene that I felt showed range, but it's something I felt that so many people experience — kids going through divorce, kids taking their anger out on others... so I just felt it was something a lot of people could relate to."
This will be the final time that Bryton James (Devon) will be able to compete in Younger Actor, since he's growing out of it, but he still knows the competition is strong. "From the first time I was nominated 'til now, the field has shrank," he admits. "But the competition is great as ever. I'm so happy for Max [Ehrich, Fenmore] and everyone else." But he's hoping his performance in the episode where Devon's hearing was restored brings home another Emmy for a matched set. "Absolutely," James says. "It's an honor to be recognized, but of course you want to win. I'm a very competitive person!"
Miller submitted an episode where Jack found out that Billy had double-crossed him, and hopes that his scenes opposite Bergman help him pull of a win in the Supporting Actor category. "Peter and I work together well," Miller says. "I've known him for a long time. We look like brothers."
Stafford knew her selection had to be just right, since there's no second round anymore — the episode that gets you the nomination is the same one used to judge whether or not you win the Emmy. "It was an episode where Phyllis confronted Christine after she was let off," the actress reveals. "I really liked it. I loved how it was written and I liked what I did with it. This is my tenth nomination and is special for many, many reasons."
Man, do we miss her! Susan Flannery, who last year walked away from her 25-year role as Stephanie Forrester on The Bold and the Beautiful, is once again back in the Daytime Emmy race after four wins and three zillion nominations. TV Guide Magazine spoke with the Outstanding Lead Actress contender about her latest shot at the gold and how she's faring outside the showbiz spotlight.
TV Guide Magazine: Congrats, my dear, though I damn well bet you're more excited about Katherine Kelly Lang's nomination than your own, right?
Flannery: Thank you. I very much appreciate the congratulations. [Laughs] But you know me! I think it's much more wonderful that they finally nominated Katherine. I'm always the first to gripe about it when it doesn't happen.
TV Guide Magazine: How did you get the news?
Flannery: I was in bed [on nomination morning] listening to BBC World on my iPhone and I kept hearing that little buzz that says people are sending you emails. [Laughs] I figured it was Johns Hopkins telling me I've got dementia! So I just ignored it. Then a while later [exec producer] Brad Bell called and said, "I've tried desperately to wait until 7 a.m. to call you. You've been nominated!" The first thing out of my mouth was: "What about Katherine?" It's so funny. I was so excited about Katherine, I forgot to ask who else had been nominated in my category. About an hour later I saw the list and went, "Oh, my God! Peggy McCay!" I called her right away and congratulated her. What a capper for a career. She's been acting since the 1950s. It's just fabulous! Only in daytime can women really find a place after a certain age, and even then it's tricky. Last year when Erika Slezak was nominated again after many years, I called her and said "Congratulations. So they know you're not dead!"
TV Guide Magazine: You and Katherine both submitted the same episode — Stephanie dying with Brooke by her side. You never gave interviews at the end of your run on B&B so finally here's my chance to ask: How did you feel about the way your exit was written?
Flannery: I loved it. Toward the end, someone at the show told me Stephanie was going to die in, like, three weeks and I went up to Brad's office and said, "You're gonna have Brooke there with her at the end, right?" He looked up and gave me this great big grin and said, "Yes, that's who it is." I said, "Fabulous!" I think it worked out really well.
TV Guide Magazine: Didn't you think it was awfully heartless of Stephanie to tell her children she was going off to die in private and that they'd never see her again? It was so friggin' mean.
Flannery: I know it was. Everyone was so stunned but I thought it was a very interesting and original way to handle a character's departure, and I really admired Brad so much for that. He did it all beautifully and stayed true to Stephanie. It was so her! He didn't take the easy way out. When Brad told me she would make the rounds and tell all the important people in her life that she was going to be dead soon, I was very happy. [Laughs] I didn't want to have to lay there in some hospital bed while everyone else on the show, one by one, pulls up and chair and says, "Okay, I'm doing my Emmy reel now."
TV Guide Magazine: Do you ever miss the show?
Flannery: Nope.
TV Guide Magazine: Not ever?
Flannery: Nope.
TV Guide Magazine: How about acting itself?
Flannery: [Laughs] Nope. I really only think about that part of my life when somebody calls me. I don't mean to be unkind or anything. I had a great run and a wonderful time, but there's a time to go. And when you go it's over. You don't look back. My friend Joanna Johnson [B&B's Karen] was so worried that I was going to lose my mind if I stopped working. [Laughs] But I lost that a long, long time ago, so what the hell? She said, "You have too much energy! What will you do with it?" But it's all been fine.
TV Guide Magazine: What the hell do you do all day?
Flannery: Don't ask me. I mean, you can ask me. But I can't account for it! I remember, when I was a kid, how people who'd gone into retirement would say, "I've never been busier. I don't know how I used to find time to have a job!" And I thought that was crazy. [Laughs] But it's true! Somehow your days just fill up. I kind of credit my [decision to quit] to the way the B&B production schedule changed three or four years ago. Suddenly, instead of just having a couple of weeks off at Christmas we had these long stretches of dark weeks and I really loved it. I was always thinking, "Gee, I could get used to this." But, as I said, it was also time to go. I had a great career and you can't ask for more.
TV Guide Magazine: Well, actually we can. You will show up at the Emmys so we can see you again, right?
Flannery: Yes I will be there — just to watch Katherine win!
Our long national nightmare is over. The Bold and the Beautiful's Katherine Kelly Lang — aka eternal sexpot Brooke Logan — has scored her first Daytime Emmy nomination after 26 years on the job. The much-adored actress shared her excitement with TV Guide Magazine soon after she got the news.
TV Guide Magazine: Are you as shocked as we are?
Lang: [Laughs] Isn't it amazing? I remember years and years ago when Susan Flannery [Stephanie] was nominated for B&B for the first time and she said, "I never thought it would happen!" And somehow that always gave me hope, because if someone as amazing as Susan had to wait, then why wouldn't I?
TV Guide Magazine: So the year-in, year-out snub never bummed you out?
Lang: Not at all. I'm the kind of person who tries not to let things get me down. I love persevering. I love acting every day. I'm so lucky to have this job and to have it for so long.
TV Guide Magazine: Did you hear Robin Roberts give you a shout out on Good Morning America this morning after your name was read?
Lang: No, I don't know anything about that! Really? Wow, I hope I can find it online. I was at a dinner with some Italian friends having way too good a time last night and was out until 1a.m.. [B&B exec producer] Brad Bell called me at 6 a.m. to tell me the news. I'm like, "Who's calling me at this hour?" [Laughs] Hey, it's not the worst way to wake up!
TV Guide Magazine: What do you think made the difference this year? Was it your switch from leading actress to supporting?
Lang: I'm not the type to analyze or speculate. It was my choice to switch to the supporting category because [in 2012] that's what I was. Brooke didn't really have a story of her own. She was busy supporting her daughter, doing a lot of mom stuff, and of course supporting Stephanie as she was dying. We'll see how it all turns out. I'm just so satisfied being nominated.
TV Guide Magazine: Did you submit Stephanie's death to the Emmy judges?
Lang: Yes, the episode where Brooke takes Stephanie out into the woods, they sit down and talk and then she passes away. I only submitted one episode instead of two [as Emmy rules allow]. I didn't want too much pain or for it to get laborious. [Laughs] I didn't want people speeding ahead through my reel to get to the next actress.
TV Guide Magazine: Were you surprised Stephanie only wanted Brooke with her at the end?
Lang: I was happy! I thought it was perfect. [Laughs] Of course, the fans were going, "How come Brooke gets to be the one with Stephanie when she dies? This is sooo wrong!" Brooke was a huge thing in Stephanie's life for many years, a problem mostly, but in the end they were best friends. In a way, it was the love story of the show. They'd been through so much history, so much fighting. They were the supercouple of B&B.
TV Guide Magazine: Have you had a chance to congratulate Susan on her nomination this morning?
Lang: Yes! And she is so excited but she's even more excited about me. That's Susan. I love and admire her so much and have learned so much from her. She's so strong, so feisty. I'm in awe of her at every moment. I wish I could do what she does.
TV Guide Magazine: Will you celebrate tonight?
Lang: [Laughs] I don't think so, especially after being out with my Italians last night. I love Italians. I love Italy. We just couldn't stop! So I'm considering that my pre-celebration. I'm heading to the studio right now to shoot two shows today and then I'm really tempted to go home and collapse...in utter happiness!
DAYS’s Chandler Massey (Will) woke up to learn from his publicist, Jeff Ballard, that he received his third straight Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Younger Actor (he won the award last year).
But Massey was most excited about DAYS’s multiple nominations, including Outstanding Drama Series. “I’m thrilled about DAYS getting 17 nominations,” he grins. “Ari [Zucker, Nicole], Peggy [McCay, Caroline], and of course, Freddie [Smith, Sonny] got nominated. I’m thrilled for all three of them. The show made out well this year and I think DAYS deserves it. Everyone connected to the show works extremely hard and is very talented. I’m glad they’re getting recognized for it.”
As for Massey’s own reaction to being nominated for the third year in a row he shares, “I have the same feeling of gratitude and excitement I felt last year and the year before. Just being nominated is an honor and I appreciate it very much.”
Jason Thompson (Patrick, GENERAL HOSPITAL) actually kind of forgot that the nominations for the Daytime Emmys were going to be announced this morning! "I wasn't feeling well last night, so I didn't get the best sleep," he confesses. "But then I heard my phone buzz this morning. My dad called and congratulated me. For a second, when I picked up the phone, I didn't know if he was going to say, 'Oh well, maybe next year,' or 'Congratulations!' Thankfully it was 'Congratulations!'"
While the actor had plenty of juicy material to choose from, he struggled to choose an episode to submit. "It wasn't an easy decision," Thompson admits. "I looked for a while. I had a feeling on a couple of things and then some people gave me some good advice. I put it in the hands of some people that I respected and trusted. I tried to not judge it myself as much."
"I ended up putting in the episode with the tie scene," he adds. "Where he wakes up and sees the ghost of Robin a couple ties when he's in bed, when he's in the shower and when he's tying his tie. Then he comes downstairs and sees Emma for a quick second and says 'I don't know how I'm going to do this.' I was happy with a lot of the stuff that happened last year as a team."
And it's that team mentality at GH that has him noticing some glaring omissions on the ballots this year. "I'm shocked that Finola Hughes (Anna) wasn't nominated," Thompson declares, "because I know what we went through as a team and I know what she went through was real. As an actor, that's what you want."
"Kelly Sullivan (Kate/Connie), too," he continues. "She had a fantastic year. I know how hard she worked. But I also know the way these things go. I'm happy to be on this side of it, but it's a crap shoot. I'm proud of the year I had. Whatever happens from here on out as of this morning, I'm happy and it's a cherry on a good year."
Bradford Anderson (Spinelli, GENERAL HOSPITAL) woke up this morning to news that he had been nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor. Well, technically, baby daughter Juna woke him and wife Kiera a little after seven, at which point he discovered text messages on his phone from former castmate Steve Burton (ex-Jason, now Dylan, THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS) and Emmy winner Christian LeBlanc (Michael, Y&R)!
"We looked at the monitor to see if maybe Juna would go back to sleep," Anderson laughs. "I put the phone in front of [Kiera's] face and showed her the texts. So my first congratulations in person was from my wife because we were still in bed!"
Anderson reveals that the episode he submitted that earned him the nod was one from last summer when he had a confrontation with Jen Lilley's Maxie at Kelly's. "He gives her a speech about friendship," he says. "Sometimes it's hard when picking Emmy shows because my character isn't the kind of character that gets the knock down, drag out material. I'm not Lucky Spencer."
"I don't get that stuff very often," he continues, "so sometimes in picking a show, I have to look outside the box a little bit. Sometimes you have to look for an episode that has a beginning, middle and end. This episode did. And I guess it worked out!"
And whether he wins or loses on Emmy night, there's one thing the actor is definitely looking forward to that evening. "One of the things I'm very excited about this year is that it's a sure-fire way of seeing Julie Berman (ex-Lulu) again," Anderson confides. "I don't see her as much. I'm excited that she's nominated and I'm excited that I will for sure see my friend again!"
Actress Erin Chambers, who played Siobhan McKenna on GENERAL HOSPITAL, has joined the cast of THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, according to Daytime Confidential. Chambers will be playing the recurring role of Melanie Daniels.
Chambers will debut on June 5. Look for Melanie to mix it up with the Newman clan.
Since former GENERAL HOSPITAL executive producer Jill Farren Phelps took the reins at THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, a few former GH actors have appeared on the show including Bruce Weitz, Ignacio Serricchio and Steve Burton.
It didn't take Lindsey Morgan long to score a couple of bookings after being let go as GENERAL HOSPITAL's Kristina! "I booked a pilot for Fox Digital [Studios] and a guest star role on [TNT's] FRANKLIN & BASH," she tells In Depth. "Maybe GH was a good luck charm. I miss it already but am grateful to have found work so quickly!"
Fox's new media pilot, EXTR, is about an electronic dance music DJ intrigued and eventually obsessed with a machine that channels energy and turns it into sound. Is this contraption actually tapped into the universe? That's the big question. Morgan plays a street-smart young woman who's always got an angle... and is always up for a little partying! "My role is very vixen-like and, let's just say, I'll be stretching myself as an actress," Morgan hints.
The former DAYS OF OUR LIVES actress and her husband AJ Gilbert are expecting a baby girl. The actress posted on her Twitter account, "My wise husband once said, "Life isn't a fairy tale. It's a series of complex chapters." This should be fun! #ItsAGirl #HalloweenBaby."
Does Bill have a relative coming to town? B&B is looking for a Caucasian female in her mid-to-late 40s to play Julie Spencer, a beautiful, smart and sophisticated businesswoman. The role is recurring, with a possibility of it becoming contract.
The show wants recognizable names only.
While there won't be any ONE LIFE TO LIVE actors nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award when the contenders are named next Wednesday -- even though the show did have three weeks of eligibility from the 2012 calendar year before their final ABC broadcast last January, none of their stars made the pre-nomination list -- castmembers from the soap, as well as ALL MY CHILDREN, will be able to compete next year!
David Michaels, senior executive director of the Daytime Entertainment Emmy Awards, tells Soaps In Depth that the beloved soaps (set to relaunch on Monday from The OnLine Network), will be eligible for consideration in 2014... it's just a matter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences deciding in which category to place them! "In May, we have an awards committee meeting. We're going to start discussing that now," Michaels reveals. "There are a bunch of different ways to go. They are obviously going to be eligible for the contest; we're just trying to decide how they should be eligible."
Congratulations are in order for AS THE WORLD TURNS alum Billy Magnussen, who today earned a Tony nomination for Best Performance By An Actor In A Featured Role In A Play for his performances as Spike Vanya And Sonia And Masha And Spike! The Broadway play by Christopher Durang nabbed a grand total of six nominations, including Best Play.
On hiatus since last September, Emmy-winning Web soap opera THE BAY is at long last returning to production. What secrets and lies will be revealed? Will they pick up from where last summer's foray into Bay City's seedy scene left off in the "Darkside Of The Bay" special?
Soaps In Depth was the first to know about the series' brand-new promo for the third season, featuring Mary Beth Evans (Sara), Matthew Ashford (Steve), Nicolas Coster (Mayor Madison), Jacklyn Zeman (Sofia), Kristos Andrews (Peter) and more. The spot was shot just last weekend in beautiful Marina Del Ray, CA, on Coster's personal boat. The show's creator, Gregori J. Martin, says that THE BAY is "expected to return by late summer or early fall."
To catch up on what you might have missed, visit http://www.thebaytheseries.com/videos2012.html.
Per the Sami/Lucas message board, Second Chances, Bryan Dattilo (Lucas) was taken off contract at the end of his 13-week cycle in February 2013. The change should take effect in the credits sometime in late May/early June. He will remain with the show on a recurring basis.
The news comes just as Dattilo celebrated the 20th anniversary of his "Days" debut earlier this month and with him just 50 episodes shy of reaching the 2,000 episode appearance mark, something only 14 "Days" actors have done in the show's 47-year history.
Greenlee ran from Ryan before responding to his proposal. JR urged Kendall to trust Ryan. Greenlee and Kendall ran into each other on Ryan's doorstep. Greenlee decided to accept Ryan's proposal but urged Kendall to make peace with him. Liza was almost caught in the tunnel. Ryan and Greenlee agreed on the ground rules for their marriage. Kendall was hurt by Ryan's absence from Fusion's daily operations. Bianca began her job at Fusion. Krystal and Mary argued over Babe and JR's wedding. Babe wanted Bianca to be part of the wedding. Greenlee kept her marriage plans secret from Kendall. Ryan told Bianca why he and Kendall couldn't be together. Tad confronted Liza. Livia drafted Ryan's prenuptial agreement. Kendall couldn't find Ryan to make peace with him. Ryan and Greenlee decided to elope. Tad convinced Krystal he really wanted a relationship with her.
Carly defended Barbara when Paul and Jennifer found out about Barbara's brain tumor. Katie ended up in a mental institution. Alison continued to lie. Jordan and Rosanna were married. Doc got in a lot of trouble with Kim. The IRS investigated the Rose Foundation for money laundering.
In Hawaii, Brooke pulled away from Nick, saying that she was having a hard time getting over Ridge. Samantha discussed her one true love with Caitlin. Hector revealed Priscilla's deception to Stephanie. Hector told Sam that her child was still alive - and that she was Caitlin. Brooke told Ridge that she wants to try to keep their dream alive.
John, emotionally shaken and discouraged, advised Marlena that she confessed to all the serial killings while under the influence of sodium pentothal. Marlena signed a confession and was returned to lockup where another fight erupted fueled by Nicole's friend to "shut up" Marlena before she could incriminate her and Jan in Victor's death. Bo was determined to insure Marlena's execution for her heinous crimes against Salem's loved ones. Kate pushed Philip and Belle together while Shawn dealt with his feelings and considered leaving Salem. Lucas stood by Sami in her time of need despite Kate's objection. The Horton family gathered to pay final tribute to all their loved ones following Marlena's confession and arrest. Jennifer's bearer bonds, and inheritance from Alice, were missing, and Patrick, who left town without a goodbye, appeared to be the likely suspect until Julie found Bonnie's purse bulging with cash.
Luke, Skye, Tracy and Coleman wonder who moved Ross' body. Lucky informs Luke and Skye that Laura has vanished from her room in the institution as a blonde woman seems to be stalking an unaware Skye around Port Charles. Emily tells Jason that Sam is pregnant and he confronts Sam and tells her if she doesn't tell Sonny, he will. Sonny and Carly decide that their marriage is not based on sex or even friendship, but just for co-parenting and they inform others of this so that there are no confusions as Sonny continues to see Sam. At Tracy and Jax's engagement party Mary admits to Alcazar that she knows that "Connor" is Nikolas and that she is knowingly deceiving Emily and Nikolas. When Emily knocks over her purse and Jax finds the prenatal vitamins that Emily is supposed to deliver to Sam, Jax asks if Sam has had a paternity test and then goes to confront Sam and ask her if he could be the father. Later, Emily falls asleep on a pew at the church and "Connor" sees her as he is picking up his payment for working at the church. Mac and Felicia walk in to find Georgie and Dillon together.
Lizzie convinced a reluctant Cassie, Reva and Edmund to try to help Tammy see the light. Lizzie's plan to separate Tammy and Joey backfired, but the rift between Tammy and Cassie seemed to worsen. Olivia asked Cassie to buy out her share of the Beacon so that she could insure a future for her and Emma in the Spaulding Empire. Joey tried to convince Tammy to reconcile with Cassie; meanwhile Lizzie was overjoyed at Phillip's homecoming, while Olivia seemed more frightened than relieved at her husband's return. Ed seriously considered his return to Africa. A frightened Eden pressured Bill to elope once she realized that Vinnie would never let her escape him or her past. Danny and Michelle were about to face their own problems with their new mob boss and neighbor, Vinnie Salerno.
A man named Laser kidnapped Starr from Central Park by pretending to be one of Travis' friends. Natalie accepted Paul's proposal, but John whisked Paul away before he could run off with her. Nigel offered to help Roxy deal with the bookie. Kevin's suspicions of Kelly and Todd grew. Antonio accepted a dangerous undercover assignment from Evangeline. Marcie decided to poke around to find out what Paul and Dr. Long were up to. Viki suffered serious chest pains upon learning from Dorian that Starr had been kidnapped. After several near misses, Todd and Blair spotted Starr and Laser at the train station, but Laser managed to escape with Starr.
Whitney worried about her father's reaction when she learned Luis was going to expose all the Crane secrets at the dance. TC anticipated the Cranes' downfall. Ivy coped with feelings of inadequacy while Sam worked to make something happen between them. Tabitha feared love would win if the Cranes were brought down. Alistair forced Beth to help him stop Luis from showing the entire town the CD-ROMs. Sheridan worried about Luis' information being true, while Antonio prepared to take his wife away. Pilar struggled with her illness. Theresa lost the baby, and opted to get pregnant by Ethan in order to get Little Ethan back.
Brad, Ashley, Victor, and Nikki faced off about Abby. The police found clues that could lead to proving Kevin's innocence. Michael received an emergency call from the prison about Kevin's grave condition following a beating. Grace again accused Sharon of killing Cameron, while Sharon secretly had hallucinations of Cameron being present in her home and even kissing her. Katherine and Arthur spent a romantic afternoon together. Neil was named acting CEO of Newman Enterprises. Kevin flatlined, but he awakened to Michael's words of love for his brother.
Monday ("Attacked")
Kate is devastated to find Rafe's body in the alley; Abigail demands answers from JJ.
Tuesday ("Rafe's Condition Worsens")
Gabi learns that Rafe's health is deteriorating; Chad asks Abigail if they have a future together.
Wednesday ("Fallout")
Kristen and Brady argue about her family; Marlena asks John if he wants a divorce; Jennifer learns that JJ has been lying to her.
Thursday ("Cold Feet")
Kristen has second thoughts about her scheme; Hope suspects EJ may have been involved with Rafe's attack.
Friday ("Secret Agendas")
Sami has questions for EJ regarding Rafe's assault; Nick and Gabi encounter a dangerous situation.
Monday ("Morgan's Injured")
Michael rushes Morgan to the hospital; Sonny attempts to get more information on Morgan.
Tuesday ("The Blame")
AJ and Tracy blame one another; Rafe comes clean to Molly about his feelings for her.
Wednesday ("Blackmail")
Tracy threatens to expose AJ if he doesn't take responsibility for the relish debacle; Olivia and Connie give Sonny some useful information.
Thursday (Britt's Pregnancy')
Emma is upset to learn that Britt is pregnant; Sabrina can't believe that Britt approached Patrick about moving in with him.
Friday ("Drinking")
Mac is hesitant about giving Luke a drink; Liz asks AJ to be her date for Laura's wedding.
Monday ("Relationship Woes")
Brooke and Hope discuss their relationship problems; Liam prepares a romantic evening for Steffy.
Tuesday ("Rick Attempts to Dump Caroline")
Bill has a plan to shock Maya; Caroline refuses to let Rick end things between them.
Wednesday ("Bill's Plan")
Bill instructs his staff to ensure that Maya will return to jail; Hope tells Thomas her reasoning behind making amends with Steffy.
Thursday ("Jesse's Offer")
Jesse has an intriguing proposal for Maya; Taylor, Bill and Thomas offer their support for Steffy and Liam.
Friday ("Brooke's Request")
Brooke's request surprises Eric; Taylor stands by her daughter.
5/13, Nick confronts Kyle about Summer; Chloe must pay for Kevin's antics.
5/14, Dylan prepares for the future; Billy cannot resist temptation.
5/15, Jack tries to plead Phyllis' case to Traci; Cane and Lily have a romantic evening.
5/16, Adam rethinks his involvement with Sharon; Nick's concern for Summer is questioned.
5/17, A shocking secret is revealed as Michael and Carmine have a confrontation.