'General Hospital' Knows How to Grab Attention

General Hospital Knows How to Grab Attention
By Carolyn LeVine Topol

Every soap opera goes through periods where some stories explode on the screen and others fizzle out long before reaching their climax. During recent weeks, on General Hospital, this theory has been taken to extremes. Two prominent stories on the GH landscape have elicited polar opposite reactions — one kept me on the edge of my seat and the other nearly replicated the impact of a tranquilizer.

This past week was the perfect example of all this soap does best… as well as some of their choices that make me want to reach for the remote and hit fast-forward.

Having enjoyed GH for nearly 45 years, I’ve been thrilled to watch many of their dynamic storylines. General Hospital’s characteristic engagement of many citizens of Port Charles weaving together in story arcs and then culminating with a nail-biting climax of all at once brings out all the best in this soap. I still remember the Ice Princess storyline of decades past—it was that exciting for its time.

Nancy Lee Grahn and William deVry

This past week the excitement revolved around two events due to culminate simultaneously—the wedding of Alexis Davis & Julian Jerome (Nancy Lee Grahn & William deVry) and the arms smuggling sting on the pier. Utilizing nearly all the featured characters in Port Charles, Paul Hornsby’s (Richard Burgi) ill-conceived sting operation, culminating with a wedding hostage crisis, kept me on the edge of my seat. From gunshots fired at an innocent bystander to Sonny Corinthos’s (Maurice Benard) dramatic leap from his wheelchair to save the day, General Hospital demonstrated what it does best—especially during a sweep month.

The only strange downside to this story arc was the evident abandonment of the entire crime scene, including the military grade weapons. Although it enabled Carly (Laura Wright) and Sonny to have their moment to bond, it was awkward and glaringly inappropriate. However, I can be very forgiving for a few minutes of foolish story-telling when the rest of the story was so engaging.

While the wedding excitement and arms smuggling sting was the stuff that GH has always been known for, their writers are clearly not immune to the occasional sleeper.

Rebecca Budig and Tyler Christopher

Despite the portrayal by two outstanding actors, the Hayden/Nikolas (Rebecca Budig/Tyler Christopher) saga has reached a stage where I can only describe the plot as boring. For a show that lends itself to tempestuous stories, revelations by either Hayden or Nikolas could take place tomorrow and it wouldn’t faze me, having lost my interest. This arc, reminiscent of the interminable “Fluke” storyline, has reached a point where I just don’t care. For a soap with an award-winning writing team, it’s surprising when they do not sense when a story needs to be tied up as it is beginning to disinterest viewers.

I look forward to more exciting performances, coupled with creative and explosive story arcs. In addition, I must praise General Hospital for not only giving viewers an ongoing torrent of turbulent plots, but for continuing to thread romance throughout. Energetic arcs, coupled with tender moments between Julian & Alexis, Sonny & Carly, and Brad & Lucas (Parry Shen & Ryan Carnes), to name a few, illustrate why I continue to watch General Hospital after more than four decades, and will undoubtedly continue to do so for many years to come.

Carolyn LeVine Topol regularly contributes television and web series features to Serial Scoop. Having always dreamed of writing her own version of The Great American Novel, it took her many years to discover her most heartfelt stories took their form in the creation of LGBT romances. Carolyn had one lesser-known passion, her dedication to all things "soap opera". Starting as a child with "Dark Shadows" and "Secret Storm", Carolyn has found a way to keep up with nearly every soap, on every network over the past 45 years!

Daytime Ratings: Tough Week For 'Days of our Lives' and 'The Young and the Restless'

The Live + Same Day daytime ratings are in for February 15-19, 2016. The Bold and the Beautiful (+57,000) was the only daytime soap opera to increase its total audience over the previous week. All soaps were down versus the same week last year.

Below is a breakdown of the daytime soap opera Nielsen ratings by category:

Total Viewers (versus previous week/versus same week last year)
1. The Young and the Restless 4,988,000 (-21,000/-593,000)
2. The Bold and the Beautiful 3,795,000 (+57,000/-388,000)
3. General Hospital 2,942,000 (-82,000/-244,000)
4. Days of our Lives 2,434,000 (-77,000/-157,000)

Women 18-49 Viewers
1. The Young and the Restless 700,000 (-23,000/-234,000)
2. The Bold and the Beautiful 568,000 (-4,000/-97,000)
3. General Hospital 522,000 (+2,000/-143,000)
4. Days of our Lives 459,000 (-16,000/-6,000)

Women 18-34 Viewers
1. The Young and the Restless 208,000 (-15,000/-34,000)
2. The Bold and the Beautiful 182,000 (-16,000/-3,000)
3. General Hospital 175,000 (+10,000/-14,000)
4. Days of our Lives 115,000 (-7,000/+7,000)

Women 25-54 Viewers
1. The Young and the Restless 1,003,000 (-51,000/-350,000)
2. The Bold and the Beautiful 830,000 (-26,000/-181,000)
3. General Hospital 698,000 (+21,000/-191,000)
4. Days of our Lives 554,000 (-34,000/-117,000)

Via SON

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers For the Week of March 7, 2016

Check out the day-to-day spoilers to find out what's happening on NBC soap opera Days of our Lives during the week of March 7.

Monday, March 7, 2016

Abigail demands to know what Chad and JJ are keeping from her.

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Desperate to find Marlena, John questions Deimos.

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Shawn and Belle clash over her purchase of the club.

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Ciara has an intense confrontation with Chase.

Friday, March 11, 2016

The threat of Ben looms as Abigail and Chad’s wedding begins.

Indie Series Awards Spotlight: Best Original Song

The new Best Original Song category features music from Hart of America, Life of Matt, New Mayor of New York, Or So the Story Goes, Redheads Anonymous and The Under 5ers.

The 7th Annual Indie Series Awards ceremony is only 38 days away. As the countdown to ISA7 continues, Serial Scoop is shining a spotlight on the nominees in each category. Today we look at a brand new category this year, Best Original Song, which had many, many wonderful submissions. Check out the final six nominees below.

Devon Martinez Joins 'The Young and the Restless'

Devon Martinez

Actress Devon Martinez, daughter of current Days of our Lives star A Martinez (Eduardo), has been cast as Shawn Taylor on The Young and the Restless.

According to Michael Logan from TV Insider, Martinez debuts in the role on March 1, and will be interacting with Nick (Joshua Morrow) and Sage (Kelly Sullivan). Shawn is a young pregnant woman looking for the perfect parents to adopt her child.

When the casting call for Shawn first went out, she was described as being pretty, yet extremely practical. I hope she uses good judgement if she is considering letting Nick and Sage adopt her child!

You can read Michael Logan's full interview with Martinez here.

Exclusive 'Hit The Floor' February 29 Sneak Peek (Video)

Kimberly Elise/photo credit VH1

On next week's new Hit The Floor, airing Monday, February 29 at 10/9c, Sloane (Kimberly Elise) and Pete (Dean Cain) get questioned by the police about Olivia's (Charlotte Ross) death and their history with the victim.

Watch an exclusive sneak peek below:

'Guiding Light' Stars Beth Chamberlin and Tina Sloan Reunite for Michael O'Leary Play, Directed by Grant Aleksander

Michael O'Leary

Longtime Guiding Light actor Michael O'Leary (Dr. Rick Bauer) will be reuniting with a a few beloved former co-stars in his new one act play, "Breathing Under Dirt," next month. "Breathing Under Dirt" will premiere at the Manhattan Repertory Theater in mid-March.

The One Act festival production will feature O'Leary, along with Beth Chamberlin (Beth Raines) and Tina Sloan (Lillian Raines) in lead roles. Sloan and Chamberlin play mother and daughter once again in the period piece, set in the 1950s, with a relationship full of resentment.

The play will be directed by another veteran Guiding Light star, Grant Aleksander (Phillip Spaulding).

"Breathing Under Dirt" is about reaching forgiveness and reconciliation while we still have life. A heart can be healed when we accept the limitations of ourselves and others

Location:
Manhattan Repertory Theater
303 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036

Performance Schedule:
March 16, 17, 18 and 19. 6-9 p.m. Finals for the competition will be March 31 and April 1 at 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Tickets:
Tickets can be reserved at mrtreserve@gmail.com and are $20.00 dollars. You pay at the door. The house is small (around 48 seats) so tickets are limited.

Lifetime Movie 'Suicide Note' Premieres February 27, Stars Kirby Bliss Blanton, Brant Daugherty, Lexi Giovagnoli, Stephen Colletti

Lifetime movie Suicide Note premieres Saturday, February 27 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. The film stars Kirby Bliss Blanton, Brant Daugherty, Lexi Giovagnoli, and Stephen Colletti.

Ambitious psych major Molly White (Blanton) is on top of the world as she preps for her grad program entry exams. After celebrating with boyfriend Brady (Daugherty) Molly finds her roommate Emma crying after an incident she had with her boyfriend Adam (Colletti).

The next morning, Molly is shocked to learn that Emma jumped from the roof late that night, leaving a suicide note behind. Refusing to believe that Emma would do such a thing, Molly starts having haunting dreams over Emma’s death. Driven to uncover the truth about what happened to Emma, Molly begins to search for answers positioning herself in harm’s way

Watch a sneak peek below:

Romance Needs to Return to 'Days of our Lives'—For All!

Romance Needs to Return to 'Days of our Lives'- For All!
By Carolyn LeVine Topol

Marlena (Deidre Hall)  presides over Will (Guy Wilson) and Sonny's (Freddie Smith) Wedding on Days of our Lives

It was just shy of two years ago when one of the loveliest romances, in recent Days of our Lives history, culminated in a beautiful wedding at the Kiriakis mansion. I’m sure I’m not alone in fondly remembering the wedding of Sonny Kiriakis and William Horton (played by Freddie Smith and Guy Wilson). Not only was their wedding a pivotal moment in daytime TV, but it contributed to Days being recognized by the GLAAD Media Awards.

As a Days viewer for nearly four decades, I still remember Marlena (played by Deidre Hall) ending the wedding ceremony with, “May the love you share be the bond that brings you strength, and comfort, and joy all of the days of your lives.” Incorporating those particular words, I expected Will and Sonny to become one of the enduring love stories in this beloved soap opera’s history.

Instead of a long-lasting bond, which should have endured many soap-style ups and downs, the love story of Sonny and Will, so full of promise, ended tragically. In a sad mess of betrayal, followed by the slow, but evident, maturity of the characters, and expected renewal of their love, all was destroyed with the senseless murder of legacy character, William Horton. Will’s brutal death not only killed the chance for Will and Sonny to have their well-deserved happy ending, but also appears to have killed the entire gay storyline.

Currently, as I watch Days every afternoon, I await the time when the show will renew my faith in groundbreaking storytelling and continue to crush antiquated barriers to all love stories.

Christopher Sean as Paul Norita

There is still one prominent gay character left in Salem, although he’s been conspicuously off the radar of late. It’s time for Paul Narita (played by Christopher Sean) to get the chance to find love in Salem. Having hoped to reconnect, unsuccessfully, with his former love, Sonny Kiriakis, Paul has been left adrift in a town with a preponderance of characters pairing up on an ongoing basis.

Learning John Black (Drake Hogestyn) is Paul’s father, led me to believe Paul would play an integral part in all aspects of life in Salem, as do his siblings Brady and Belle (Eric Martsolf and Martha Madison). Upon his entry into Salem, viewers fell in love with Paul, as he bravely came out to his mother and grandfather, and then cheered him on or sneered at him as he attempted to find a place back in Sonny’s life.

However, with Sonny currently working in Europe, managing a portion of his uncle’s ventures abroad, it’s time for Paul to get the same opportunity as the rest of the Salem community. As fans learned during the past few years, there is a gay population in Salem—enough to warrant having The Spot nightclub. Certainly there must be room for another gay character on the scene.

With all the love we have been promised, it would be gratifying and satisfying to see Paul reap some of the same benefits, beyond the clichéd date with the fashion photographer.

Christopher Sean as Paul in a scene with Guy Wilson as Will on Days of our Lives

Having talented, strong actor, Christopher Sean, at the helm, Paul Narita can go in a number of directions. Paul can have both a powerful front-burner storyline AND a romance—especially one riddled with lots of dramatic complications.

It’s critical for Days of our Lives to return to that place of recognition they so deservedly achieved with their previous gay storyline. In 2016, this story should not be left off the grid. In the past DOOL has been praised for its “Love Wins” portrayal of the LGBT community. I hope this soap, formerly lauded by GLAAD, will not avoid the challenges of creating a new gay romance for all the viewers to enjoy.

If it’s all about the romance, let’s get ALL the romance that ALL the fans so richly want and deserve.

Carolyn LeVine Topol regularly contributes television and web series features to Serial Scoop. Having always dreamed of writing her own version of The Great American Novel, it took her many years to discover her most heartfelt stories took their form in the creation of LGBT romances. Carolyn had one lesser-known passion, her dedication to all things "soap opera". Starting as a child with "Dark Shadows" and "Secret Storm", Carolyn has found a way to keep up with nearly every soap, on every network over the past 45 years!

'Hit The Floor' February 29 Sneak Peek

Adam Senn as Zero 

On next week's new Hit The Floor, airing Monday, February 29 at 10/9c, Zero (Adam Senn) hosts an unforgettable party, and Kyle (Katherine Bailess) films her movie, with a nasty guest star.

Meanwhile, Tensions between Ahsha (Taylour Paige), Derek (McKinley Freeman), and German (Jonathan McDaniel) reach a breaking point. Jelena (Logan Browning) faces her worst nightmare and Sloane (Kimberley Elise) begs Pete (Dean Cain) for a shocking favor.

Watch a sneak peek below:

Hit The Floor

'Days of our Lives' Favorite Greg Vaughan Joins OWN Drama 'Queen Sugar'

Greg Vaughan

Greg Vaughan (Eric, Days of our Lives), Bianca Lawson (ex-Eva, Witches of East End), Henry G. Sanders (ex-Walter, The Young and the Restless) have joined the cast of the new original drama series "Queen Sugar," from award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay (Selma) for OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network and produced by Warner Horizon Television.

The series, which will begin production in Louisiana and Los Angeles this month, chronicles the lives and loves of the estranged Bordelon siblings - Nova (Rutina Wesley, True Blood), Charley (Dawn-Lyen Gardner, Unforgettable) and Ralph Angel (Kofi Siriboe, Awkward) - who come together after a family tragedy to run an ailing sugarcane farm in the Deep South.

Lawson portrays Darla, the ex-girlfriend of Ralph Angel (Kofi Siriboe) and mother of their son, 6-year-old Blue, who she has been prevented from seeing as she battles drug addiction. Vaughan portrays Calvin, a cop and longtime lover of Nova (Rutina Wesley), who shares a deep connection with her despite being married. Sanders, in a recurring role, portrays Prosper Denton, a farmer and old friend of Ernest (guest star Glynn Turman).

The series is executive produced by Oprah Winfrey, Ava DuVernay and Melissa Carter. DuVernay developed Queen Sugar for television, wrote its pilot episode and will direct multiple episodes of the show's first season.

RELATED:
EXCLUSIVE: Greg Vaughan on His 'Days of our Lives' Exit - "It's Going To Really Rip Your Heart Out"

Julie Berman Upped To Regular On Hulu’s ‘Casual’

Julie Berman: Getty Images

Actress Julie Berman, who played Lulu Spencer on General Hospital from (2005-2013) has become a series regular on Hulu's Casual, Variety reports.

Berman recurred as Leia in Season 1 of the comedy series.

'The Young and the Restless' Got the Brass Ring with Jason Thompson

The Young and the Restless Got the Brass Ring with Jason Thompson
By Carolyn LeVine Topol

Jason Thompson

Having watched Jason Thompson in the role of Dr. Patrick Drake on ABC’s General Hospital for several years, it was satisfying to see Patrick, Robin, and Emma (played by Kimberly McCullough and Brooklyn Rae Silzer) ride off to a happily-ever-after together to complete their story arc.

Although the departure was bittersweet, knowing these three would no longer be in Port Charles, the farewell was tempered with good news for all the Jason Thompson fans. I, for one, was thrilled to learn he was about to take a giant step into a front-burner storyline on CBS’s The Young and the Restless.

Bravo to The Young and the Restless team for having the foresight to cast Jason Thompson as Billy Abbott. From the moment he appeared as hospitalized, comatose Billy, JT owned the character. In a series of scenes where Billy observes each member of his family preparing to mourn his imminent death, Jason seamlessly made us forget he had not played Billy from the character’s inception.

Jason Thompson and Amelia Heinle as Billy and Victoria on The Young and the Restless

The familial chemistry between Jason and the Abbott family, including Billy’s young children, was instant — the recast was seamless. Even more apparent was the instant chemistry between Jason Thompson and Amelia Heinle, who plays Victoria Newman, Billy Abbott’s fiancée. Jason’s entry into the role of Billy, appears to have brought about a renewed energy and brightness in all the scenes between these two on-screen lovers.

Recasts are an ongoing, accepted practice on all soap operas. They are a natural part of the genre. Some recasts work and some do not. In this case, the recast of Billy Abbott, with actor Jason Thompson, was the perfect match of actor and role. Without missing a beat, Jason took ownership of the character as if he had been portraying Billy for years — let’s hope he does!

Blind Item: Which Daytime Star is Telling Tall Tales?

In the world of daytime soap operas, the drama isn't always in front of the camera. And sometimes it's so juicy the names can't be revealed. Below is a recent item that insiders are talking about, when they think no one is listening.

* Which star whitewashed his/her coworkers departure when he/she really wanted to end the storyline?

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers for the week of February 29

Check out the day-to-day spoilers to find out what's happening on NBC soap opera Days of our Lives during the week of February 29.

Monday, February 29, 2016

JJ and Gabi take their relationship to the next level.

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Steve lies to Roman in order to protect a loved one.

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Brady asks Fynn to check into Summer’s DNA

Friday, March 4, 2016

Philip presses Belle for more of a commitment regarding their relationship.

INTERVIEW: Roark Critchlow Previews 'Pregnant at 17,' His New Lifetime Movie

Roark Critchlow

Roark Critchlow is known to Days of Our Lives fans as Dr. Mike Horton, a role he played from 1994-1999. On DAYS, Roark’s character had a legendary romance with Carrie Brady played by Christie Clark.

Critchlow’s latest project is the Lifetime Movie, Pregnant at 17, which premieres Saturday, February 20 at 8pm ET/PT. After witnessing a brutal crime, things are finally starting to look up for seventeen-year-old Chelsea (Zoe De Grand Maison). Madly in love with Jeff (Critchlow), an older and accomplished married man, who promises her the world, Chelsea’s life takes a turn when she discovers she is pregnant with his baby.

Serial Scoop recently spoke with Roark Critchlow who previewed tonight's Pregnant at 17 premiere. Read our interview below.

SERIAL SCOOP: Dr. Mike Horton is still missed after all of these years. Would you ever come back if the opportunity presented itself?
When Jeff’s wife (Josie Bissett) discovers his affair and meets Chelsea, she decides to help her out with the baby, but when a dark figure from Chelsea's past returns, it puts all three of them in danger.

Kim Matula Joins the Cast of 'UnREAL'

Kim Matula

Variety is reporting that Kim Matula (Ex-Hope B&B) is joining the cast of lifetime's upcoming second season of UnREAL.

Matula will play one of the ladies vying for the heart of Darius Hill (BJ Britt), the new suitor of UnREAL’s fictional dating show, Everlasting.

'General Hospital' Spoilers (February 22-26, 2016)

Check out the weekly spoilers below to find out what's happening on ABC soap opera General Hospital during the week of February 22 2016.

* Morgan (Bryan Craig) intentionally puts himself in the wrong place at the wrong time.

* Olivia (Lisa LoCicer) gets scared.

* Nina's (Michelle Stafford) persistence elicits a reaction from Franco (Roger Howarth).

* Pandemonium breaks out in Port Charles

* A shocking discovery freaks out Carly (Laura Wright).

* Lulu (Emme Rylan) finds herself in peril.

* Several people tackle a bad situation.

* Carly must deliver unfortunate news.

* Two people are brought together by a near-death experience.

* Morgan reaches the bottom.

* Ava (Maura West) worries about a worst-case scenario.

* Hayden (Rebecca Budig) decides to make a confession.

* Carly's patience comes to an end.

* Someone is watching Anna (Finola Hughes).

* Maxie (Kirsten Storms) is flummoxed by Nathan's (Ryan Paevey) words.

'The Young and the Restless' Spoilers (February 22-26, 2016)

Check out the weekly spoilers below to find out what's happening on CBS soap opera The Young and the Restless during the week of February 22 2016.

* Marissa (Sofia Pernas) tells Dylan (Steve Burton) that she's the one who hit Billy (Jason Thompson).

* Nikki (Melody Thomas Scott) is outraged when she learns Victor (Eric Braeden) turned Noah (Robert Adamson) in.

* Kevin (Greg Rikaart) and Mariah (Camryn Grimes) wonder about Natalie's (Mara McCaffray) loyalty.

* Victor pulls a gun on Luca (Miles Gaston Villanueva) and orders him out of town.

* Nikki tries to contact Elise Moxley.

* Hilary (Mishael Morgan) needles Ashley (Eileen Davidson).

* Nikki hears Jack (Peter Bergman) telling Neil (Kristoff St. John) about Victor replacing him with a lookalike.

* Phyllis (Gina Tognoni) and Billy bond.

* Chelsea opens up to Dylan.

* Sage (Kelly Sullivan) asks Adam (Justin Hartley) for help.

* Dylan asks Sharon (Sharon Case) about Nick (Joshua Morrow).

* Luca and Summer (Hunter King) get close.

* Victor feels the walls closing in.

* Chelsea (Melissa Claire Egan) makes a shocking discovery about Adam.

* Phyllis and Jack clash.

* Nick and Sage make a major decision.

Web Series of the Week Poll Results (February 6-12, 2016)

Family Problems was voted favorite web series of the week.

The results are in from the Indie Series Network and Serial Scoop "Web Series of the Week" (#WSOTW) poll for February 6-12, 2016.

Family Problems was voted favorite web series for the week. The season finale of A job, A wife, A life came in second, followed by new episodes of The Benefits of Gusbandry, Shades of Bad and Out With Dad.

The acting favorites were A job, A wife, A life's Brett Golov and Family Problems' Wendy Hartman, and the favorite couple/duo was Blake & Amy from A job, A wife, A life.

Check out the complete results from this week's below:

RANK	SHOW	LAST WEEK	TOP 3
1	Family Problems	1	41
2	A job, A wife, A life	-	1
3	The Benefits of Gusbandry	-	1
4	Shades of Bad	5	5
5	Out With Dad	-	14
6	Jezebel	-	0
7	Bro-Dum	13	0
8	Let's Pretend	-	0
9	Becoming Mrs. Ellison	11	0
10	Nightlife	-	0
11	Mind Diaries	-	0
12	Kuntergrau	-	0
13	Northood	-	0
14	How I Seize It	14	0
15	Kaleidoscope	-	0
16	Jill & Jack	-	0

Watch the Top 3 series and see the rest of the poll results below:

Daytime Ratings: Good Week for 'The Young and the Restless' and 'The Bold and the Beautiful'

The Live + Same Day daytime ratings are in for February 8-12, 2015. It was a great week for The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful who were both up in total viewers and in the women 18-49 demo.

Below is a breakdown of the daytime soap opera Nielsen ratings by category:

Total Viewers (versus previous week/versus same week last year)

1. Y&R 5,009,000 (+142,000/+118,000)
2. B&B 3,738,000 (+95,000/+22,000)
3. GH 3,024,000 (+39,000/-10,000)
4. DAYS 2,511,000 (-56,000/+213,000)

Paige Searcy Joins the Cast of 'Days of our Lives' as Jade

Photo by Dana Patrick 

Actress Paige Searcy has joined the cast of Days of Our Lives as Jade. Jade is slated to become involved with Joey Johnson (James Lastovic). A DAYS rep has confirmed the casting. The role is recurring. She will first air later this month.

Indie Series Awards Spotlight: Best Lead Actress — Comedy

(Clockwise from top left) Melissa Archer, Laura Campbell, Claire Downs, Crista Flanagan, Jill Knox and Amber Nash

The 7th Annual Indie Series Awards ceremony is only 48 days away. As the countdown to ISA7 continues, Serial Scoop is shining a spotlight on the nominees in each category. Today we look at Best Lead Actress — Comedy. It will be impossible not to laugh when you watch the hilarious nominated performances below.

Josh Griffith Out As Co-Head Writer At 'Days of our Lives'

Soap Opera Digest is reporting that Co-Head Writer Josh Griffith has left Days of our Lives, and is being replaced by Staff Writer Ryan Quan. Josh Griffith joined DAYS in 2015 as part of a co-head writing team with Dena Higley. Higley remains in her current position.

Vivian Jovanni Opens Up About Ciara's Rape On 'Days of our Lives'

Vivian Jovanni

Today on Days of our Lives, Ciara Brady (Vivian Jovanni) was raped by Chase Jennings (Jonathon McClendon). Now, Jovanni is speaking out about the shocking plot twist.

Spoiler For Today's 'Days of our lives' Episode

Chase and Ciara 

On Wednesday's episode of Days of our Lives, Chase Jennings (Jonathon McClendon) raped Ciara Brady (Vivian Jovanni) in a shocking plot twist that came out of left field.

'General Hospital' Sneak Peek: Anna Continues Plotting Against Paul

Anna continues continues plotting against Paul

Today on the February 17 episode of General Hospital, Anna (Finola Hughes) continues plotting against Paul (Richard Burgi), but he begins to catch on to her machinations.

Meanwhile, Sonny (Maurice Benard) brings the truth to Morgan (Bryan Craig), while Dante (Dominic Zamprogna) worries about Lulu's (Emme Rylan) plans.

'The Young and the Restless' Sneak Peek: Nick and Sharon Grow Closer

Today on the February 17 episode of The Young and the Restless, Nick (Joshua Morrow) tells Sharon (Sharon Case) he will owe her forever for solving the mystery about Dr. Anderson.

Meanwhile, Hilary (Mishael Morgan) pulls the spotlight away from Neil (Kristoff St. John), while nightmares about Christian haunt Sage (Kelly Sullivan).

You can watch a sneak peek below

'The Bold and the Beautiful' Sneak Peek: Is Katie Out Of Control?

Is Katie out of control? 

Today on the February 17 episode of The Bold and Beautiful, Bill (Don Diamont) finds Katie (Heather Tom) in a compromising position, as her drinking hits a new low.

Meanwhile, Brooke (Katherine Kelly Lang) tells Bridget (Ashley Jones) she will never interfere with Katie's family. However, she remains concerned about Katie's growing insecurities.

You can watch a sneak peek below:

'Days of our Lives' Sneak Peek: Chad Suspects Andre May Have Killed Stefano

Chad suspects Andre may have killed Stefano

Today on the February 17 episode of Days of our Lives, Chad (Billy Flynn) suspects Andre may have killed Stefano, while Claire (Olivia Rose Keegan) learns a shocking secret about Belle (Martha Madison)

Meanwhile, Ava (Tamara Braun) returns to Salem just as Steve (Stephen Nichols) struggles to keep the truth from Kayla (Mary Beth Evans).

Angell Conwell Returns to 'The Young and the Restless'

Angell Conwell

Soap Opera Digest is reporting that Angell Conwell is reprising her role of Leslie Michaelson on The Young and the Restless. Conwell is slated to return for the March 14 episode of YR.

It appears as though someone in town is going to need a fantastic lawyer, and this individual turns to Leslie. Who could it be?

Stay Tuned!

'Hit The Floor' February 22 Sneak Peek

Asha (Taylour Paige) and Derek (McKinley Freeman) Photo Credit VH1

On next week's new Hit The Floor, airing Monday, February 22 at 10/9c, Ahsha (Taylour Paige), Derek (McKinley Freeman), German (Jonathan McDaniel), Zero (Adam Senn), Jude (Brent Antonello) and Pete (Dean Cain) face the fallout from their actions.

Meanwhile, Sloane (Kimberley Elise) is forced to revisit her past and Jelena (Logan Browning) and Terrence (Robert Christopher Riley) are blindsided by an unwelcome discovery, putting their plan to buy the team in jeopardy.

Watch a couple of sneak peeks below:

Former 'General Hospital' Head Writer Ron Carlivati Presented With Writers Guild Award (Video)

Ron Carlivati

General Hospital won in the Daytime Drama category at the 68th annual Writers Guild Awards on Saturday night. The ABC soap opera won for the second year in a row, this year beating one other nominee, The Bold and the Beautiful.

GH was nominated for the episode celebrating the soap's 52nd anniversary that aired on April 1, 2015. Current cast members took on past roles to recreate scenes from the show's very first episode that aired on that day in 1963.

Ron Carlivati accepted the award on behalf of his writing team, and had very interesting comments to make about former General Hospital actor Tony Geary.

You can watch the video below.

Jordi Vilasuso Finally Arrives as Dario Hernandez on 'Days of our Lives'

Jordi Vilasuso

It's hard to believe, but it was on August 28 when Serial Scoop broke the news that Jordi Vilasuso was joining the cast of Days of our Lives. Vilasuso is now talking about his role of Dario Hernandez, the character previously played by Francisco San Martin.

The actor tells Soap Opera Digest the role came about last summer when he was thinking about returning to daytime. According to Vilasuso, "Ken [Corday, executive producer] reached out and said they were [expanding]the Hernandez family."

Vilasuso then met with Corday, Co-Executive Producer Albert Alarr and Co-Head Writer Josh Griffith. He responded to the intelligence of the character and says, "Dario is also very passionate and outspoken. He has a short fuse. I was so ready and wanting to play this guy."

Vilasuso first worked with Eric Martsolf (Brady) and Marie Wilson (Summer), and Brady will encounter Dario working as a bartender in California.

The actor is slated to first appear on the Friday February 19 episode of Days of our Lives.

Welcome to Days Jordi!

'General Hospital' Sneak Peek: Anna is Pulled Into Dillon's World

Photo Credit: ABC/Rick Rowell

Today on the February 16 episode of General Hospital, Anna (Finola Hughes) gets pulled into Dillon's (Robert Palmer Watkins) world.

Meanwhile, Morgan's (Bryan Craig) mania leads to an impulsive decision, and there is a dynamic shift in one of Sonny's (Maurice Benard) relationships.

You can watch the February 15 episode of General Hospital here.

'Days of our Lives' Sneak Peek: JJ Doesn't Approve of Chad and Abby

Today on the February 16 episode of Days of our Lives, JJ (Casey Moss) is upset when he learns of Abigail's (Kate Mansi) plans, and Jennifer's (Melissa Reeves) addiction affects her work.

Meanwhile, Hope (Kristian Alfonso) and Rafe (Galen Gering) carry out a plan to neutralize Andre (Thaao Penghlis), while Andre takes advantage of Chase's (Jonathon McClendon) distress.

You can watch the February 15 episode of Days of our Lives here.

'The Young and The Restless' Sneak Peek: Adam and Luca Face Off

Today on the February 16 episode of The Young and the Restless, Adam (Justin Hartley) offers Luca (Miles Gaston Villanueva) a challenge, and Ashley (Eileen Davidson) encounters a setback.

Meanwhile, Phyllis (Gina Tognoni) fights to keep her secret from Jack (Peter Bergman).

Watch a sneak peek below.

'The Bold and The Beautiful' Sneak Peek: Ashley Jones Returns as Bridget Forrester

Today on the February 16 episode of The Bold and The Beautiful, Thomas (Pierson Fode) shows Caroline (Linsey Godfrey) a kinder side of himself, and Katie (Heather Tom) insists Brooke (Katherine Kelly Lang) agree to her terms.

Meanwhile, Ashley Jones returns as Bridget and offers Brooke a shoulder to cry on.

Watch a sneak peek below.

Jason Thompson Visits 'The Talk' (Video)

Popular actor Jason Thompson visited 'The Talk' today to discuss his new role of Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless

Thompson discusses how welcoming the cast has been over at The Young and the Restless, and how great it feels to be part of the family over at CBS.

You can watch the short video clip below.

'The Bold and the Beautiful' Puts the 'Beautiful' In their Montages (Video)

The Bold and the Beautiful have become experts at producing fabulous montages. I couldn't include every montage I have enjoyed over the years- that would take days- But below are some of my favorites. Keep them coming B&B!

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers For February 15 2016: Brady Discovers New Information About the Mystery Woman

Brady learns new information about Summer on Days of our Lives

Check out the spoilers for the February 15, 2016 episode of Days of our Lives below; it looks like it will be a good one.

Monday, February 15

* Brady (Eric Martsolf) gets answers from Fynn (Alexander Bruszt) about Summer (Marie Wilson)

* Eduardo (A Martinez) witnesses Deimos (Vincent Irizarry) moving in on Kate (Lauren Koslow).

* John (Drake Hogestyn) gives Philip (John-Paul Lavoisier) surprising information about Deimos.

* Belle (Martha Madison) comes to a decision about Philip.

RELATED:
'Days of our Lives' Spoilers for the week of February 22

'Days of our Lives' Officially Renewed!
'Days of our Lives' Spoilers for the week of February 15

Why We Should Celebrate The Renewal of 'Days of our Lives'
Daniel Cosgrove Returning To 'Days of our Lives'

Is Freddie Smith Returning to 'Days of our Lives'?

February Sweeps Spoilers For 'Days of Our Lives'

Kate Mansi Leaving 'Days of our Lives'

EXCLUSIVE: Greg Vaughan on His 'Days of our Lives' Exit - "It's Going To Really Rip Your Heart Out"

Matthew Ashford Returning to 'Days of our Lives'

EXCLUSIVE: Emmy Winner Jordi Vilasuso Joins 'Days of our Lives'

Great Story Coming for 'Days of our Lives' Star Christopher Sean

'General Hospital' Spoilers For February 15 2016: Elizabeth Learns the Truth about Hayden and Nikolas

Today on the February 15 episode of General Hospital, Elizabeth (Rebecca Herbst) discovers that Hayden (Rebecca Budig) is now Mrs. Nikolas Cassadine. How will Elizabeth react to this unsettling news? At this same time, Nikolas (Tyler Christopher) is taking steps to uncover Hayden's secret past.

'Days of our Lives' Spoilers for the week of February 22

Check out the day-to-day spoilers to find out what's happening on NBC soap opera Days of our Lives during the week of February 22.

Monday, February 22, 2016

Ava goads Kayla into physically attacking her.

Hope is concerned when she catches Ciara acting out with Theo.

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Andre helps Chase disappear.

Web Series of the Week Poll (February 6-12, 2016)

The Indie Series Network - Serial Scoop "Web Series of the Week" (#WSOTW) poll is back from hiatus! It's now time to catch up on latest episodes and vote for your favorite shows in this week's poll.

You can also cast a vote for your favorite actor, actress and web series couple/duo. Voting ends Wednesday, February 17 at 4 p.m. ET (one vote per person per day).

Web series that aired one or more new episodes from February 6-12, 2016 are eligible. If a web series aired this week and is not on the list, cast your vote as "Other" and write in the name of the show.

Watch this week's indie series below:
- Becoming Mrs. Ellison Episode 6 "From YouTube to Television"
- The Benefits of Gusbandry Episode 4 "Gateway Gays"
- Bro-Dum Episode 5 "The Pillars Of Skank - A bro's guide to picking up the ladies"
- Family Problems Episode 69 "Family"
- How I Seize It Episode 206 "Masturbation"
- Jezebel Episode 5
- Jill & Jack Season 2 Episode 1 "Sex Present on Valentine's Day" (season premiere)
- A job, A wife, A life Episode 6 "religion or is there anything out there" (season finale)
- Kaleidoscope Episode 4
- Kuntergrau Episode 4
- Let's Pretend Episode 1 (series premiere)
- Mind Diaries Episode 2
- Nightlife Episode 3 "The Hustle & Struggle"
- Northood Episode 5 "Can You Dig It?"
- Out With Dad Season 4 Episode 12 "Counselling Vanessa – Session Forty-Seven"
- Shades of Bad Episode 38

'Days of our Lives' Classic Montages

Do you miss the love and romance that Days of our Lives used to be known for? DAYS was THE show that viewers expected would set a scene to a beautiful love song, and I miss those days.

In honor of Valentine's Day, I present some of my favorite montages that have aired on Days of our Lives

Clips include scenes with Justin and Adrienne, Roman and Diana, Shane and Kim, Steve and Kayla, John and Marlena, Jack and Jennifer, Sami and Lucas, Mike and Robin, and Bo and Hope.

I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. You can watch the scenes below.