Interview: Greg Vaughan's New Role on Days

Eric Brady, Sami’s twin brother, hasn’t been on the Salem scene for more than a decade — until now, that is. Daytime veteran Greg Vaughan stepped into the role, and into a clerical collar, a few months ago, with a story line that was unexpected to Greg and his fans. I spoke with “Father” Greg a few weeks back about taking on this new role and how he’s adjusting to the “Days of our Lives” set.

Daytime Dial: In order to prepare for the role of Eric Brady, did you read the backstory, watch some old episodes, etc., or did you decide to do none of this to come in with a fresh take on the character?

Greg Vaughan: I did want a fresh take, but I have history with the show from the outside looking in because I dated a young lady who was once on the show. And then I knew a lot of the cast, and one of them being Jensen (Ackles, who played Eric from 1997 to 2000). And so in portraying the role and the character itself, I was familiar with everything up and to that point. But it’s been more than 10 years, and so much has changed, and I just felt like he had definitely come into his own as a man. I wanted to use my own pallet of colors on the character, if you will. I wanted to create my own vision, and what better way to do that — especially when I was informed that he was going to be a priest?

DD: I think a lot of us were surprised by that turn of events!

GV: For me, it was more of a deer-in-the-headlights kind of shock, like: “Wow! Now THAT is going to be a challenge!” I was thinking he’d be more of a Jason Bourne type of guy. But then when I heard he’d be a priest, I explored into that and my personal life journeys, and then I’m like, “You know, this could be kind of interesting.” And it will be challenging, because I’ll be out of my element. What better way as an actor to challenge yourself than getting out of your comfort zone?

DD: How much have you filmed? I know Christmastime always plays a big part in Salem.

GV: We film very far in advance, and that’s very much out of my box. We’re shooting like three months ahead of time, so half of the stuff I’ve already done I don’t even recall. I think our Christmas scenes were filmed before Halloween. But as I recall, there’s going to be a lot of good quality and a nice, really spiritual family time, and I think everybody is going to be taken by it.

DD: How were your first few days on the set? Were you excited, nervous?

GV: There was a lot of excitement, like Christmas Day or something, because I knew a lot of the cast previously. There was just an overall feeling of “this is going to be fun.” Everybody has graciously welcomed me. I was a little bit overwhelmed because the pace is so fast. It was not something I was used to. Alison Sweeney and I were doing a movie a little while back, and she said: “Things have changed quite a bit. Not just with the genre, but each show.”

DD: How has that changed you as an actor?

GV: It definitely made me step up my game. It’s like, you’re being given a great opportunity, so take the bull by the horns, do your work and come in here and perform. You get a lot of people who are used to the stage and a lot of people who are used to prime time, and they can’t keep up with the pace. It’s so fast — you have to digest it, regurgitate it, spit it out, and then start over and move on to the next scene. Out of the gate, I didn’t eat for like the first two weeks. Not by choice; it was just I was being pulled in so many different directions because I was in so many different scenes. I was interacting with so many new faces, and I was trying to get some sense of rapport and history and education about where and who I was. But now I finally feel like it’s a nice, steady flow. I’ve gotten into a good rhythm.

DD: Can you tell me anything about Eric’s future in Salem?

GV: In Eric’s journey, he’s definitely had his own issues and battles to deal with. There are a lot of layers that are going to be revealed along the way, and we’re going to communicate that. Where he’s going, what his temptations are and reuniting with past relationships — whether it’s with Nicole and the temptation of that, and the struggle against the family and his sister, and the butting of heads with the DiMeras.

Eric is coming from a whole new perspective that’s nonjudgmental. And that’s hard. Especially when you want to stand up and fight for somebody. It’s definitely been an exciting journey so far, and I’m always looking forward to what kind of ride I’ll be taken on. I’m just glad to be working with a great cast and to be a part of such a historically great show. From the younger cast members to the veterans, there’s not one person I haven’t been taken in by or drawn in by what they’re doing.

Interview (Days): Lucas Comes to Sami's Rescue, Again

Bryan Dattilo, who has played Lucas Roberts on “Days of Our Lives” off and on since 1993, is back again. Lucas returns to town at the request of ex-wife Sami Brady, who is undergoing personal turmoil (as usual) and needs Lucas’ support to help her through. However, when Lucas returns from Hong Kong, it appears he’s moved on from Sami and her games: He comes back to Salem with a fiancee in tow. I spoke with Bryan recently about his return, and he is excited to see what’s in store for Lucas this go-round.

Daytime Dial: What’s it like being back on “Days,” now that you are here for a longer stay?

Bryan Dattilo: It was the kind of thing where it’s so challenging, and I did the show for so long, and to be away from it this last time, I really appreciate what I have. I think I got burnt out a little the last time, but being back now is so rejuvenating — it’s new and it’s fresh, and there also are a lot of people I used to work with. Everyone has the sense of just how valuable the job and the show is. It’s high-paced because we have so much to shoot in a short time, and the work is quicker. You really have to be on your game. It’s kind of been hard getting used to the pace again, but it’s been great.

DD: How has Lucas changed and grown since he’s been off working in Hong Kong?

BD: Before I got back, I didn’t know exactly how they were going to play it, so I didn’t know if I was going to have to speak Mandarin or if I was going to have to come in bilingual or more capable in karate or something. But Lucas comes back with a fiancee, whom he met in Hong Kong, so that has a lot of weight to it, and a lot of people react to it. He comes back a lot more business smart from being over there — a little more mature and stronger, and kind of appreciates his home and his country more. Then that spilled over into appreciating people who used to be in his life, and being there for Sami and Will and Allie.

DD: Lucas has always been a good barometer for Sami when she goes through her different crises, because he does tell it like it is with her.

BD: He does tend to hold the mirror up in front of her and shows her how it is. Of course, she is going through so many things. Some of it’s her fault and some of it’s not, and Lucas is always quick to point out when it is her fault. So, it’s made for some really good scenes. Obviously he wants to be there for his son and his daughter. And Kate can always use a hand.

DD: Can you give us any teasers about upcoming episode?

BD: Lucas is definitely going to be there for Kate, and have a lot to do with the business and the things that she’s going through. She might be a little too comfortable now — she’s due for some hardship that he’s got to help her through. Will’s got a lot of things coming up that he’ll need his dad for, and then there’s always the stuff with Sami that you never know which way that’s going to go. The great thing about the character is that you can tie him into the Austin/Carrie story line because he’s got such history there, and he’s got history with the DiMeras, and he’s got history with the Hortons and the Bradys. There are lots of avenues and story lines that could guide the character. They’ve done a really good job spreading him out.

Days Actors' Appearance in Atlanta

“Days of our Lives” actors to appear at charity events to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association in Atlanta.

“Days of our Lives” actors James Scott (EJ, pictured), Galen Gering (Rafe), Eric Martsolf (Brady), Shawn Christian (Daniel), Wally Kurth (Justin), Matt Ashford (Jack) and Patsy Pease (ex-Kim) will be in attendance.

The Days Charity Events will take place on Friday, April 27 and Saturday, April 28, 2012 at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel Atlanta. The weekend will start with a “Kick Off Party” on Friday at 7 pm, where some of the actors may attend. Then on Saturday, the Questions and; Answers Session will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the Meet and Greet will be held from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM and the Cocktail Reception will be held from 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM

“I have the great privilege of being invited to many different charity events, but I’ve always considered the events coordinated by “Days Charity Events” to be the most worthwhile and the most fun.” James Scott (EJ, “Days of our Lives”)

“I love being with the fans and the best part is when it’s something you believe in and you know that the events are run by good people.” Brandon Beemer (Owen, “Bold and the Beautiful”)

Tickets prices start as low as $20 per person and the events will have novelties, raffles, and auctions available. For more information please go to www.dayscharityevents.com.

The events are coordinated and organized by Days Charity Events Inc.

All celebrity guests have agreed to and confirmed their appearance on the date listed above but if unforeseen circumstances do arise and the celebrity cancels or is replaced this is beyond our control and beyond the control of the actor. We will do everything we can so this does not happen but we thank you for your understanding if it does. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Interview Outtakes

Most of the time when I am conducting an interview with a soap star, I have more interview material than space for printing the interview. Here are some blurbs from stars that did not make it to the print version of the interview, but were too good not to publish.

Dominic Zamprogna, pictured (Dante Falconeri, “General Hospital”), on working with James Franco: He’s great. He’s just a really nice guy and he’s a really passionate guy, interesting guy. He’s able to do a lot right now cause he’s been blessed with some great things happening in his career, and he’s taking advantage of it. There are a lot of people in his situation who don’t want as much as he wants or to accomplish what he wants to accomplish. He’s grabbing life and fulfilling whatever he wants to fulfill, which is amazing. There should be more people out there doing what he is doing. I think James just realized that [being on a soap opera] was something he wanted to try, and why not? He doesn’t care what people think, otherwise he wouldn’t do half the stuff he’s doing. I think that’s the problem with a lot of actors these days. They do it for the wrong reasons, and they’re losing sight of what matters. You’re not supposed to be doing this so you can get famous; you’re supposed to be doing this because it’s a fire burning inside of you and you have a passion to do this. I can say that’s why almost everybody on this show is doing it, and that’s definitely why James wanted to be a part of it.

Jennie Garth (ex-Kelly Taylor, “90210”), on husband/actor Peter Facinelli: “My husband is such a serious guy most of the time, but he's funny. Makes me laugh, I know that. I love that part of us when we're having fun together. Whenever we come to a crossroads and we are like, “Marriage sucks and it's hard,” I can always come back to, “But you make me laugh so much.” I don't want to end that.

Luke Perry (ex-Dylan McKay, “90210”), on his aversion to Twitter: “We live in a world where people are obsessed with the cult of Twitter, where they have to jump on and tweet every damn thing that happens. And they all have followers. Think about it: This is a media-generated thing where everybody can have followers. I question people who want to have a bunch of followers, and that presumes that they themselves are, what, the leader? I’m not buying into any of that. It’s so weird that everybody wants to tweet and everything, and I’m like, why don’t you just go and do it? I can’t do that – I like to do.

James Reynolds (Abe Carver, “Days of Our Lives”), on working with armed-forces veterans: “I started working with the active duty military about 12 years ago, working with the U.S.O. and with armed forces entertainment. It kind of took me back to those years ago when I was a young Marine serving overseas, and I began to recognize that in this country we ask a very, very small percentage — we don’t even draft anymore —and so we are asking a very, very small number of people to not only protect us in those places that we need protection, but to be the leading edge of whatever our foreign policy may be at the time. I got a letter a few years ago from a young woman whose husband was serving in Afghanistan at the time — this was about seven or eight years ago — she was losing their family home while he was in Afghanistan. It made me realize that we need to draw more attention to what is going on with these young men and women that we’re asking to put their lives and bodies on line for us, and we cheer them and do all of this here, but then we forget about them when they’re not there. So it seemed like a natural fit, and I wanted to make a point to them that all Americans care about them, regardless of political point of view.

Interview (Days): James Reynolds, "Abe Is a Man of Integrity"

James Reynolds has portrayed Abe Carver on “Days of Our Lives” since 1981 (taking leave from 1990 to 1991 to portray tycoon Henry Marshall on “Generations”), and in that time, his character has ascended the ranks of the Salem Police Department from police captain to commissioner to Salem’s mayor. Now, honest Abe is in the fight of his political career as he battles the not-so-upstanding EJ DiMera to retain his position of mayor. I spoke with James about his tenure as Salem’s stalwart public servant, as well as the fireworks that this impending election definitely will set off.

Daytime Dial: You’ve been quoted as saying: “Abe was a minority character of tremendous integrity who was not working for somebody else. He was in charge — and that meant a lot to the African-American audience.” Tell me more about Abe’s impact on “Days” and the “Days” audience.

James Reynolds: Well, Abe’s kind of an iconic character in a lot of ways, because he’s been there for so long. He has been the guy in charge for most of the time that he has been in the public eye. He is so strongly woven into the tapestry of what Salem is. You can’t have a picture of Salem or the people of Salem without Lexie and Abe, and that can’t be said for many of the other shows that are on the air, whether they are daytime or nighttime shows.

DD: Abe has always been a man of integrity, but now he is running against EJ for mayor, and we all know EJ will stoop to just about anything to be elected. How can Abe hope to prevail?

JR: He hopes to prevail by actually giving answers, actually presenting solutions to problems. That’s Abe’s plan. The issue is that EJ plans to win through chicanery. The city’s important to Abe. This is the city he grew up in. This is the city he loves. There was a point where Stefano offered Abe the governorship if he would drop out, and Abe refused that. While that’s something he thinks about for the future, the city of Salem is where the people he loves and his family are, and that’s something he wants to leave a stamp on. He wants to see this town succeed and grow and progress. With Abe, he really does want to serve.

DD: I love the strong, protective relationship that Lexie and Abe display for one another. She is standing by him and sticking up for him through all of this, even though EJ is her brother.

JR: Yeah, well, everything in Salem is a little bit incestuous, as we know. It would be difficult to run for office in Salem without someone being related to someone else. There is a conflict there with Lexie, but her husband always comes first. She loves Abe deeply and dearly, and has always been conflicted about her brother and about being a DiMera.

DD: The big debate is coming up — can you give me any teasers as to what viewers can expect?

JR: Very much like the recent debates in the real world, our debate is going to make a huge difference going forward in this campaign. Both of us are going to perform fairly well, but there are going to be some things that happen during this debate that will affect the election deeply.

DD: As you look back on your career with “Days,” what have been some of your favorite story lines for Abe?

JR: I’ve been fortunate; there have been so many. My first one absolutely was the Salem Strangler, where Abe came on the show just a few weeks ahead of Roman. Abe and Roman were designed to come on the show together. So, the Salem Strangler will always be a fond story for me.


Abe finding out that he had fathered a son with Fay was a story that I think really resonates even today. And when Abe and Lexie wanted to have a son together and adopted Isaac, which transformed in a baby-switching story. There have been so many over time, and I’ve learned to appreciate all of them.

Interview (Days): Renee Jones Takes a Look Back

As the old year draws to a close and a new one begins, I start to feel nostalgic, eager for a trip down Memory Lane. On this particular trip, I decided to take Renee Jones, who plays Lexie Carver on “Days of Our Lives,” down the lane with me. In part one of my interview with the gorgeous and talented actress, I asked her to reminisce with me about days past, and she was only too happy to oblige.

Daytime Dial: As you think back on the almost 20 years you’ve been on “Days of Our Lives,” what have been some of your favorite story lines to play?

Renee Jones: My favorite story line was Lexie finding out that Celeste was her mom and then trying to figure out who was her father — and then finding out it’s Stefano. That was a wonderful story line, and it went on for quite a few years — there were all these clues that lead to one thing to another, between the Parrot Man and all these different characters.

And then there was the whole baby-switch story line, finding out that the baby I was raising was Bo and Hope’s baby, thanks to my father. And then becoming attached to the baby and turning evil because I wanted to hold on to this child. The whole thing was maybe like a three-year arc, and it was the most exciting time for me as an actor because I got to play on so many different levels. It was the best story line that Lexie ever had, I feel, and the longest-running story line that she’s ever had.

DD: You mentioned Celeste, played by Tanya Boyd, and it makes me realize I miss her presence in Salem so much!

RJ: I know! I do, too. She brought such mystery to the show, and she was so exotic. I miss her so much. Recently I was switching my tapes from VHS to DVD, and I saw some takes between us and I thought: “Aww, I miss her. We were so good together, too.” Even though she was just five years older than I am, we were believable as mother and daughter.

DD: Speaking of mothers, now that Lexie is a mother to an autistic child, Theo, we’ve really seen her grow up and become a strong and caring woman, wife and mother.

RJ: An interesting thing that someone had asked me recently was, Isn’t it about time for Lexie to have another affair because that’s what she seems to do every couple of years? And I said that the thing that would stop her from doing that is Theo. She didn’t have a child when she did that in the past. Now her responsibility is to her child and making sure her child feels safe at all times, and her having an affair would not help the situation whatsoever. Another way that having Theo has changed Lexie is this whole situation with the mayoral race. If it were just a situation of me being pissed off at (her brother) E.J. because of how he’s being so underhanded against Abe, I would just wash my hands of him. But because Theo adores his uncle and his grandfather, I just can’t rip them out of his life, because it would affect him even stronger than a child who isn’t autistic. He’s so sensitive about things, and he likes to know that certain things are regular in his life. He’s definitely made Lexie more responsible.

DD: What can you tell me about the upcoming tensions between all involved in the mayoral race?

RJ: You’re going to see me having lots of talks with E.J., and it will seem like maybe my talks with him are getting through to him, that this is the kind of person he wants to be. Each time Lexie has a talk with him, it seems like it chips away a little bit at him and who he is, and it kind of softens the edges a little bit — although 10 minutes later he might go and do it again, but Lexie knows she softened him a little bit. I would love to keep their relationship intact, but I have to defend my husband.

DD: Lexie’s relationship with Abe is definitely getting stronger as a result of all of this. It’ll be nice to see a good, strong relationship survive all this election drama.

RJ: It’s so interesting, because I’ve had so many people, especially in their 20s, who say to me: “I want to see Lexie back with Tek or Brandon. The two of you were hot together.” And then you see people maybe mid-30s and older saying: “I’m happy to see you and Abe sticking together. I’m happy to see that somebody is sticking together.” They don’t know that as an actress, that can get boring.

DD: That’s true — it is a daytime drama, so we need some drama! Maybe just not the cheating-wife kind of drama.

RJ: Yes, if you can’t have me fool around on my husband, at least have me do something that’s fun and that I can get my teeth into. This election story line is something else that will get those acting juices flowing.

DD: On a personal note, I was astounded to learn that you recently turned 53! How do you stay looking so young, healthy and fit? Is there a secret pill, or do I need to start eating better, drinking lots of water and exercising?

RJ: That’s it. It’s the simplest thing — it’s what you put in your body. Big-time! If you put junk in your body — the chips and the sweets and the sodas — your outside is going to reflect what your inside is. I go through my time when I’m stressed and I want bad food, and so when I do indulge, I can literally see myself aging before my eyes. And I feel awful and sluggish, but then I get back on my routine — which is basically a lot of vegetables, fruit, chicken, fish and lean beef. I eat a gigantic salad every day for lunch. All the vegetables you can think of, I put together. I make sure I take my omega-3 fish oils, GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) and primrose oils. I just recently found out about omega-3 oils that you can put on your face, and it’s amazing. I put it on my face at night just a little bit before going to bed, and I just have this glow the next morning.

You’ve also got to rest. For me, I need eight or nine hours of sleep a night. If I don’t get it, it shows. Caffeine ages you fast. It’s amazing how it just dries your skin up. I allow myself a cup of black tea every day. I love it with Silk (soy milk) and honey. And, like you said, drink lots of water.

Interview (Days): Deidre Hall Knows Beauty

We all know Deidre Hall as the brilliant and gorgeous Dr. Marlena Evans on “Days of Our Lives,” who she’s played for the better part of 35 years (with a few years off here and there to work on different projects). And in those 35 years, plus the time she spent as a model before that, you can bet she’s learned a trick or two about beauty. So she and longtime friend Lynne Parmiter Bowman have written all their beauty nuggets down for the masses in the book “How Does She Do It? A Beauty Book.” (Available at amazon.com. Or you can go to deidrehall.com for details on how you can order an autographed and/or personalized copy.)

Daytime Dial: What made you decide that now was the time to write a beauty book?

Deidre Hall: Lynne and I wrote “Kitchen Closeup,” and that was fun. But what I know is beauty. It seemed a little bit daunting at the time, writing up a beauty book, but then it just all really came together, and that was it. I figured, I’ve done 35 years in front of a camera, so, if I haven’t learned a thing or two about beauty, then I should just pack up my tent.

DD: You collaborated with Lynne to write this book — how did your partnership in writing come about?

DH: It doesn’t feel like working with her, and that’s the truth. We talked earlier about having spent so much time together [while working on “Kitchen Closeup”] sitting around the kitchen table and her stirring and me writing, or her writing and me stirring. We’ve shared these kinds of health issues and food issues for so long that it was natural to write that book.


And then it was natural to write the beauty book, because we also spent that amount of time in front of a mirror. “Oh, what’s that color? Where did you get that? I want one of those!” It’s what women do. Women share the wealth. And we’ve spent a lifetime doing that. And finally we thought, “You know what, we seem to know a lot about things that people don’t seem to really know about.” And so that’s what it was. It was fun, fun to put it down on paper, and it was a labor of love.

DD: One of the things I like about the book is that the advice and tips you give are good for twentysomethings, thirtysomethings, fortysomethings and beyond. Was that a goal of yours, to reach out to many age groups, or did you have a specific group in mind when you set out to write this book?

DH: Part of our conversation in writing the book was saying there’s nothing for women over 50 out there! They care! We all care! Why are there not beauty secrets for women who have sagging skin and lined skin and dry skin and that sort of thing? We wanted to make sure that that was also included in what we wrote.

DD: I know some people, myself not included, are critical of plastic surgery, saying that it’s “cheating” in some way. What are your thoughts on plastic surgery?

DH: I love it! I love that we have an option of changing the way we look if it makes us feel better. And it’s just as simple as that. There’s no judgment on it. There is no criticism of it. It’s a wonderful option for people who want to take it. The No. 1 surgery in this country is breast augmentation. Women spend more on that than any other surgery combined.

DD: While this is a beauty book, it’s also a good self-esteem booster for women, kind of empowering. Was that one of your intentions when you were writing it?

DH: We didn’t set out to change women. We just set out to sit down with them and say: “Honey, come here. I want to share something with you.” Wow, that’s a complicated question. We know that women at their very core like to share the neat stuff. So, that’s what we meant to do. Just share with women everywhere the things we’ve learned over many years.

Interview ( Days): Christie Clark Is Counting Her Lucky Stars

As viewers of “Days of Our Lives” have been noticing, old faces are new again. With the influx of veteran actors reclaiming their space in Salem in recent months, one can’t walk through Horton Square without tripping over Jack, Marlena, John, Austin or Carrie. Christie Clark, who returned in September to her role of Carrie Brady-Reed, is thrilled to be back home on the set — a little older, a little wiser and ready to have some fun.

Daytime Dial: What made you decide that this was the right time to come back to “Days”? I know you came back earlier for Alice, but what convinced you that now was the time to return with more permanence?

Christie Clark: Well, (executive producers) Greg (Meng) and Noel (Maxam) are manning the ship, and they have a ton of heart, and they really want to make the show succeed. You can tell there is something different in the air this time around. It’s really inspiring to work with, when the writing is good and the character development is great. It inspires all the actors and trickles down, and it’s just positive energy galore at “Days” right now. All the actors are inspiring me to do good work.


And now we have 15 weeks off a year, and it used to be that we would work crazy hours, like 70 to 80 hours a week. We would get to work at 6 in the morning and sometimes leave at midnight. Now they are kind enough to bulk my shows into three days, so I get to spend time with my family in San Francisco on my days off.

DD: I know you have young children, so it’s great that they are able to accommodate you to be able to see them a lot.

CC: Oh, yeah. It’s a dream job. I’m eating humble pie now, because I have two or three days of being a little soap star and cruising in my two-seat convertible, and then I fly home and I’m back on diaper duty and dishes. Right now I’m living what all the people who watch “Days of Our Lives” are living, and I’m just counting my lucky stars.

DD: You and I are the same age, and I started watching “Days” around ’90 or ’91 — right after high school — and to me, those were the glory days. And looking back, you can see that was a really great time for the show, so I was really excited when I found out all these people were coming back to recapture the magic of that time. What were your thoughts when you heard about that idea?

CC: I am right there with you. I feel like it was the glory days too, but that’s because I was working a lot, and I was enjoying those story lines. But so many people come up to me and say that “I started watching it in early ’91-’92 and my whole sorority or my whole sewing class watched it.” People would get together as a group and watch it and talk about it. And it seemed popular then, so when they approached us about getting all that back — the romance and the light and the airiness and the beauty — of course I was all for it! I love working, so if they are going to try to touch on when I thought it was the best, then great! Sign me up!

DD: What were those first few days back like for you — stepping on the set and seeing everybody again?

CC: It was a trip. It's like a funny dream being back in the same place and with the actors that you worked with 16 years ago. Like with Patrick (Muldoon, who plays Austin). We feel the same age, we feel that it's been no time at all, but that was a long time ago! It's weird, but hopefully we've grown up a little bit and matured a bit. It's like riding a bike. I was nervous the first day, thinking, "Can I memorize these lines again?" And that muscle memory is still there for memorizing lines, and it's still the same faces in the crew. Like, Jackie is still on the boom; Mike and Johnny are still behind the camera. People never leave "Days," because it's such a good job. And I'd say 85 percent of the people who work there now, I know them and have worked with them for 20 years.

DD: Now we have the story line of Carrie defending John, which has her at odds with Austin, who isn't so sure of his innocence — because we need some drama. What can you divulge about how it will take its toll on their relationship?

CC: It's something that Carrie's never seen with Austin before, because he had a terrible upbringing, and family has always been a big thing for him. And for him to suddenly not see that and not react the "right" way is irking Carrie, and it breaks her heart. I just want to shake him to wake him up and say, "What are you doing?" So that definitely creates friction, but it doesn't break us up — at the moment.

DD: And it doesn't help now that Austin is living with Sami.

CC: That doesn't help at all! I don't like that one bit!

DD: They have always had this rivalry, Sami and Carrie. When you first came back and everybody is all grown up and mature — I was afraid that you weren't going to have that rivalry again. So, I'm really glad that we're starting to see that emerge. The path is being set.

CC: There's just been too much bad blood. You can't just forget it, and the writers are doing a wonderful job of acknowledging that. I think in the past I've come back, and I have completely forgiven Sami. To me as an actor it's like, "I can't do that!" And now these writers are really doing a fabulous job of expressing that rivalry. I tell Austin: "I don't like you staying with her. I don't trust her." I want to trust my sister, but I don't yet.

DD: You have two daughters in real life, and you on the show do not have any children. I think you are the only female of childbearing age who doesn't. Last we heard, you guys were going to try to start a family. Has there been any discussion of your trying to do that, or is that something that is way in the future?

CC: I think they will definitely do something with that in the future — there's been a good amount of practicing.

DD: And you've got to catch up with Sami. She's got like what, 12 kids by now?

CC: I know — she's got four! It's crazy! I've got some catching up to do. Maybe I'll bust out some twins to kick-start the whole thing.

Interview (Days): Sarah Brown Returns to Daytime

Sarah Brown is no stranger to daytime soap operas. The 36-year-old award-winning actress has been a part of many of daytime’s casts, including “General Hospital” (as two different characters at two different times), “The Bold and the Beautiful” and “As the World Turns.” Since she’s made her mark at ABC and CBS, it’s only natural that the time has come for her to conquer NBC and join “Days of Our Lives.” Sarah made her debut a few weeks back as Sami’s new boss, Madison James. I spoke with Sarah recently, and she told me all about her new role.

Daytime Dial: I was very excited to hear you’d be coming back to daytime, especially in a role like that of Madison James. What can you tell me about your character?

Sarah Brown: Madison is a tough cookie. She’s got a very strong sense of who she is and what she’s in town to do, which is take over the world, basically. She’s come to Salem, and she wants all of Kate Roberts’ business (Countess Wilhemina Cosmetics). She’s a tough CEO in the sense that she’s a businesswoman. She knows, she researches, she does her homework, and she speaks all the languages that she possibly can to help develop strong relationships between herself and her distributors. She works all the time. She doesn’t really have much of a personal life. She’s there to work and to succeed and to build and grow her business bigger and bigger. She’s smart enough to know how to deal with both women and men in the business world.

DD: How did the “Days” cast welcome you to the fold?

SB: They just made me feel so at home. I came into the make-up room, and every person in there that was working or not working took the time to say, “Hey, we’re really excited you’re here,” “Welcome to ‘Days of our Lives,’” and “You’re going to have fun here.” Everyone here is wonderful. It’s a great place to come to work.

DD: In your daytime career, you’ve played lots of different types of characters. So far, what do you like best about playing Madison?

SB: I love that she’s a fashionista. I like wearing pretty clothes when I go to work, because I run around in my jeans and T-shirt all the time, so I like having that time in my day where I get to get all made up, put on pretty jewelry and be super girly that way. It’s fun because when you are running around in your day-to-day life, sometimes you forget to do that or you don’t have time.

I also really like the idea of playing a businesswoman who is conducting legal business and sort of getting to shine a light on how the world is changing around us, and how women are more and more in a position of power — how they handle it, how they are treated and how they have to work twice as hard all the time and be twice as good at everything they do in order to be taken seriously.

DD: Now, what about these sparks we are seeing between Madison and Brady?

SB: She can’t be all business. Nope, there’s got to be drama and romance, romance, romance. Yeah, there’s a big spark between her and Brady. It’s there immediately and it stays, and it’s underneath everything while they’re trying to run this company. Right now she’s more interested in building her business and building her company, but she’s super attracted to this person she works with. I think it bothers her a little bit. And it causes some problems for her, both personally and professionally.

Interview (Days): Jack Is Back — And He Wants Jennifer!

As part of the rejuvenation and regeneration of “Days of Our Lives,” yet another familiar face has returned to Salem, and “Days” enthusiasts couldn’t be more excited. Matthew Ashford has returned to town, after being held prisoner in Afghanistan while working on a story, and plans to reclaim his life — ex-wife Jennifer and daughter Abigail included. Of course, it won’t be easy, as nothing is on soaps, but I’ve got my money on Jack Deveraux’s ability to charm his way back into his family’s life. I spoke with Matt recently about his return to Salem.

Daytime Dial: I know you’ve kept busy doing other projects and televisions series, so how did it come about that “Days” producers were able to lure you back to the show?

Matthew Ashford: I had gone in some years back and had a good conversation with the producers at that time, and they were very upfront. They told me, “We really like you, love your work,” and all that good stuff, but they didn’t have anything available for me at the time. They were actually trying to clear the deck a little bit anyway. I appreciated the honesty, because it’s better than them saying things they think you want to hear, but then nothing comes of it. I understood that, so I kind of moved on.

It started up not too long ago, Jack’s name had been coming up in dialogue — Jack’s doing this; Jack’s doing that — but still no call on my end. Then kind of out of the blue, I get a phone call and they ask: “Are you around? What’s your schedule? What’s your level of interest?” And I was interested. They said: “We have a story that we are interested in writing. We think there’s some really exciting things we can do with the character of Jack.”

DD: As an actor, that’s always good to know.

MA: Exactly! That’s what I’m looking to hear. They have written some really fun stuff, some very challenging things, and that’s what brought me back. There’s a lot of great stuff coming — they have definitely been true to their word. They are interested in the character of Jack. It’s a far more complicated playing field now with Jennifer and this Dr. Dan, and Abigail is now a grown young woman who has her own wants and needs. So coming to terms with that, and then there’s other people in town that I’m just starting to get to play with, which is all very, very cool.

DD: I never did buy the story that Jack was “on a walkabout” to find himself. I knew he had another, better reason for leaving his family. I’d say being held hostage is a good reason. Now that Jack is back, what does he hope to accomplish?

MA: He’s come back to regain his life. That’s the reason everybody comes back to Salem, to regain their life. He has always wanted Jennifer, and I think he’s honest and sincere when he says that. Melissa (Reeves, who plays Jennifer) just returned to the show with the passing of Alice, and I think the audience was like: “Yeah, we like this. We like seeing her again. She’s got roots here, and we like those roots.” I just think those characters are important. They are important to the story. They’re important as characters.

DD: Jack has a way of coming back into Jennifer’s life just when she has decided to start over and commit to another man …

MA: That’s kind of funny, isn’t it? How’d that work out? I would think that would be highly annoying to any girl. At least Jennifer has never used the word “stalker,” but I guess you could say in some way he’s a wife stalker.

But he’s back to find his life in Salem again. The writers want to dig into the who, what, when, why and where of everybody, and they’re not afraid to look at old story lines and go from there. But they also are bringing to it a new look, a fresh perspective and excitement and energy, and they are willing to look at things a little differently. I’m excited to say that there are things that will be brought up and you will say, “Oh wow, I didn’t think we’d get into that.” And we are, and it’s good.

DD: With this return to its roots, “Days” fans old and new are very excited to see what’s in store for them, and for their favorite characters.

MA: It’s very good because a longtime viewer will say: “Yes! I remember that!” And a younger viewer might say: “Well, that’s kind of weird. What’s that all about?” But hopefully it will be told in such a way that the younger viewer and the longtime viewer will be able to come together. And that is what I think is the smart thing to do: Let people enjoy their passion for the show together. When Ken Corday talks about how this is a family show, it’s every generation of people sitting down together saying, “Yeah! I like that,” or “That was really important when I was your age too.” It’s all very exciting.

DD: It also must be exciting, and complimentary to you as an actor, that “Days” wanted you to return to help roll out the new/old “Days of Our Lives.” Looking back, you’ve been involved in most of the more-fun and fan-favorite story lines.

MA: I just think we found a level of communication and trust, and that, for us, was paramount. Some of the other stuff was window dressing. Oh they (Jack and Jennifer) were on a cruise, or stuck in a cabin in a snowstorm, or in a train, or in a Wild West show, or wherever the heck we were. I think the important thing is the connection between these characters with all the roadblocks they threw up in between. So, yes, I’m eager to do that. I think we have had some wonderful scenes already. It doesn’t mean that they are happy. It doesn’t mean that the scenes are easy, but there is definitely a connection. I’ve had to rely on Missy very much as we’re jumping back into this, and she’s been wonderful in supporting me. Just jumping in, it takes two to tango, and fortunately she’s been very supportive and very helpful.

DD: Jack always seems to be getting himself into something — please tell me that won’t change.

MA: Oh yes, I hope he continues to get into something. I hope he never gives that up. He’s always trying something. Some people say you can’t be goofy and bumbling and also be taken seriously, but I hope we don’t have to make it a strong distinction between the two, because he’s overcoming obstacles. Like I said, I just hope that he gets into things seriously, really gets in the middle of it.

Heather Lindell Stars in PBS's "H.M.S. Pinafore"

(PRESS RELEASE)

PBS ARTS FALL FESTIVAL KICKS OFF OCTOBER 14 WITH CLASSIC GILBERT AND SULLIVAN ROMP

Broadcast date:
Friday, October 14, 2011, 9:00 p.m. ET/NEW YORK
Friday, October 14 -- 9:00pm PCT 50.1 - PBS SoCal - HD on KOCE in Southern California

For other areas, please check your Local Listings

Guthrie Theater’s “H.M.S. Pinafore” leads nine-part series that includes Pearl Jam, Bill T. Jones and six more dance, music and opera performances

Starring: Heather Lindell (ex-Jan Spears, "Days of Our Lives") as Josephine

Introduced by: Rainn Wilson

Directed by Joe Dowling, choreography and musical staging by David Bolger


One import, Heather Lindell (last seen on Broadway in "La Cage aux Folles") is fetching as Josephine, the captain's daughter, and she has ample opportunity to show off her impressive pipes.

MSPMag.com 06/27/2011
Heather Lindell, in the role of Josephine, had breathtaking vocals - several of her song finales seemed to ring out through the theater long after the song had finished.

The Examiner.com 6/25/2011
The acting is terrific, of course (this is the Guthrie). Ditto the singing; the wonderful G&S music comes through with resounding intensity. As the lovers Heather Lindell and Robb McKindles sing gorgeously and their scenes together are very funny.

HowWasThatShow.com 06/25/2011

Interview (Days): Doc and John Bring Back Family Values

Unless you’ve been living under a rock recently, you’ve heard about all the recent changes over at “Days of Our Lives.” In a valiant attempt to return to its glory days of family, romance and just plain good storytelling, “Days” is pulling out all the stops, including luring back fan favorites such as Deidre Hall. Deidre has played Dr. Marlena Evans off and on for almost three decades, and she returns to much fanfare today, Sept. 26. I spoke with the “Days” star recently, and she told me all about her return to the show.

Daytime Dial: What made you decide to return to “Days”; how were they able to coax you back?

Deidre Hall: It was a combination of things. But mostly, it was two words: Greg Meng. Greg and I went on a book tour with both of our books. He wrote “Days of Our Lives 45 Years: A Celebration in Photos.” It’s a fabulous tabletop book. So, we traveled together for several months, and we would sit at a table autographing hundreds of books at a time. And people would come up to me and say, “When are you coming back to ‘Days’?” I would say, “I have no plans to come back to ‘Days.’” And Greg would say, “Oh, but we would love to have her back.” And we would both smile, and that would be the showbiz rap that we would do.

At one point, a woman came up to me and asked, “What would it take to get you back?” And I looked at Greg and I said, “Well, I would have to be invited.” And Greg looked at me and said: “Well, none of us had ever thought of that. You’re invited!” He set about a plan that didn’t just include bringing me back, but to bring “Days of Our Lives” back to its heyday — to the family core values we all loved many years ago and the audience has resonated to. And he’s done it!

DD: What are you allowed to tell me about the circumstances of Marlena’s return?

DH: John has almost completely recovered from this illness that had befallen him (and why we went off to Switzerland). And we return back to Salem to dedicate the Horton Square. Also, there has been a terrible crisis in Salem that is revealed in those first five or six episodes. And it affects every single person in Salem. And we are back because of it and we are integral to it, and it kicks into motion an incredible series of dramatic turns.

DD: I started watching “Days” back in about ’90-91, and I always thought it was the best soap on because of all the reasons: romance, family, drama. How excited are you to be able to explore these cornerstones? Because Marlena really embodies all of those as a character, as well.

DH: Exactly everything you just said — that is what the show is. You hit it right on the head. It’s so empowering and enriching to be able to play it now. Marlena is stronger, is more devoted to John than ever before, and has a fierceness that we haven’t seen in her before. She’s taking no prisoners. And when this drama starts to unfold, you will see her tested and tested and tested, and she steps up every time. It is so thrilling to play this sort of woman who is utterly empowered. And there is no room for doubt. No room for hesitation. She is solid, and she is there.

DD: Since we saw Marlena last in January 2009, what has Deidre been up to? Have you been doing other projects? Traveling? Charity work?

DH: I have done, oddly enough, all those things. During the break, I took my son David to Brazil on an Operation Smile mission, which is dealing with children with serious disfigurements. And that was life-altering for both of us. I took him to Washington, D.C., where we campaigned for the Child Nutrition Act, which passed! I wrote a book called “Deidre Hall’s Kitchen Closeup.” It’s a lifestyle book that answers the dreaded three words, “What’s for supper?” As a mom, I know that’s a continual struggle. But it’s a lifestyle book, too, so it’s got great helpful hints, and even if you don’t cook, it’s really funny. It’s a funny book. It’s available on Amazon.com.

DD: What has it been like for you these past few weeks being back on “Days”?

DH: It is like coming back to your family, and stepping onto the stage or even stepping into the studio, and a sea of smiling faces coming toward us — arms flung open and “Oh my gosh!” I came back a few days early, and having the time to sit with your friends and catch up and: “How are the kids? Oh my gosh, they are in college now? And how is your mom?” Just friendships that have taken a little bit of a vacation, and they are right back in place.

DD: Of course we’re excited that you, Drake Hogestyn and Christie Clark are coming back. But I’m also excited to have Marlena interacting with Sami again, because she’s always been the problem child, but now she’s an adult, and she’s been through so much. Are you excited to explore that dynamic again?

DH: We haven’t seen that much play out yet, as that hasn’t been in the script. I know that a big crisis arises in Salem that puts her marriage with Rafe into play. I can’t say more than that, but Sami and EJ are deeply involved. Both for different reasons, and it affects their relationship.

DD: When you left back in 2009, “As the World Turns” and “Guiding Light” were still on the air, and now they are gone. Soon “One Life to Live” and “All My Children” are going to Internet platforms. That leaves what I call the Big Four. What are your thoughts on this turn that the daytime soaps have taken, and how do you think this return to the show’s roots will help?

DH: It will survive because it’s what we’re longing for right now, and the show will give the audience, old and new, what it’s always wanted now, when it means the most. Which is a return to core values, a place to find comfort and replenishment, and we are as good as our word. We are your family, and we are there for you. And they’ve figured out a way to produce the show on the budget required to do it without sacrificing what is on the screen. We’re in very healthy shape, so look for us to be around for a long time!

I am also hoping to extend that relationship with the fans through Facebook (search “Deidre Hall”) and Twitter (twitter.com/DeidreHall). I’m tweeting all about the show. I’m pretty good at it, and I’m finding a new relationship with the fans, which is closer and more intimate, and that’s nice for me.

Interview: Days' John and Marlena Return!

Drake Hogestyn and Deidre Hall

When we last saw John Black and Marlena Evans in Salem, they had just married and were immediately whisked away to Switzerland, which was the only place in the world where John could get the proper care he needed in order to recover from the toxic syringe that had left him paralyzed. That was in January 2009. And, as you know, in the soap world, a lot can happen in the meantime. Starting Sept. 26, John and Marlena are back — in a big way. They are helping to usher in what is being called “Days 2.0”: a return to family, romance and good old-fashioned storytelling. I spoke with Drake Hogestyn recently, and he is thrilled to be a part of this new “Days.”

Daytime Dial: Without getting yourself into trouble, you must tell me everything you can about John and Marlena’s return.

Drake Hogestyn: In the time they’ve been gone, John has been working on his recovery. There is an event in Salem, the opening of the Horton Town Square, in honor of Tom and Alice Horton, and John and Marlena make an appearance. John is just starting to get the full capacity of his extremities back. Another event unfolds, and that is that certain authorities have been waiting for John Black to land on American soil, because there are some issues that will create an umbrella story line that defines all the characters.

On Sept. 26, we’re turning a page of “Days of our Lives.” We’re bringing back a lot of fan favorites — when I walked on that show, it took me three hours to get from the parking spot to the dressing room, because I saw cameramen that I haven’t seen in forever; we’re laughing and scratching in the hallway. I walked down the hallway between Studio 2 and 4, and they are breaking for lunch, and out walks Matt Ashford and Christy Clark and Patrick Muldoon, and it’s just this warm, fuzzy feeling of throwback in the history of “Days.” We’re laughing and crying, and the energy that’s going through NBC right now, and “Days” in particular, is just amazing.

What we’re going to do is, we’re going to take the audience back to that period of time when our show was at the apex. When everybody was on board in the late ’80s and early ’90s, when we had engaging stories and compelling actors and very well-defined, character-driven stories. And that’s what we’re doing now.

DD: That’s exactly when I started watching, around 1989 or 1990, and it was, without a doubt, the best soap on television. So I am thrilled you are going back to those roots.

DH: This is exactly what I’m talking about, Cindy. That’s when everybody was on board with the show. We had all that romance; we had action, adventure, intrigue and mystery that “Days” was famous for, and that’s what we’re going back to. With Marlene McPherson and Darrell Ray Thomas, they know the history of the show. They’ve been there. They came aboard with Jim Riley, even though Jim had some crazy story lines that came out of left field.

As long as the actors played the thread, played the grain of truth in there, the audience would always be on board. The stories are contemporary, and by that I mean they are torn right out of the headlines of the front page of every paper in the nation of what is going on with the economic times, and John is right in the center of all of that right now. These are topics people are going to relate to because it is affecting their lives, and how are we going to play that out on “Days of our Lives”? That is the interesting, organic part of it.

DD: With John Black back in town, I know one person who could really use his guidance: his son, Brady.

DH: We had one scene and almost everyone was there, and Marlena says, “Everybody’s here,” and I said, “Not everybody.” And she knew that I was looking for Brady. After the highlight of the night is over, I do approach him. It goes as John expected. There have been conversations between the two of them while John was away, and John has been disapproving of choices Brady has made in his life. But it looks as though Brady is starting to try to change his life around on his own. We’ll see, but I do think there are some great dynamics there.

DD: Are you looking forward to working with the newer actors, many of whom came aboard while you were gone?

DH: Definitely. I’m looking forward to working with Eric (Martsolf, who plays Brady). Our ships were passing in the night back then. He came on board at the very end of 2008 — I was anchoring my ship somewhere else, and he was setting sail. That’s a very interesting transformation too, and the same thing with Galen Gering. These actors came over from another show (“Passions”), and they were finding their shoes of the characters on “Days of Our Lives,” and it was very established at that time. Now, it’s like I’m entering their show, and you can see how comfortable they are with their characters and the relationship their characters have formed with other characters on the show. Now John and Marlena are entering that orbit. Now we’re finding how to work with these other actors who are now established on the show. This is a really nice dance that is going on. I’m enjoying it a lot.

DD: Are there some quintessential John Black-type scenes you are looking forward to playing?

DH: That’s a really good question. As you get older, you have to change also. You’re not going to be the swashbuckler. Every once in a while, they might throw me a bone like that. But what I wanted to do, what I think is cut out for Deidre (Hall) and myself, is to take that audience back and put them emotionally in that warm and fuzzy, safe place, especially in these troubling economic times where marriages are dissolving left and right over financial ruin. If you stay strong as a couple, and you are holding hands, and you love each other, and you believe that the power of two can get through anything. That is going to be our goal: to keep the audience on board, the ones who got us there for all those years.

And I don’t take anything for granted. You’re only as good as your last show. When I played professional baseball with the Yankees, you were only as good as your last game. So, every day you roll up your sleeves, and you can’t wait to show America what’s on the next page. And right now, with the engaging story we have, everybody is just bringing it with both barrels right now. I think the audience is really going to respond to this in the most favorable way. And when they turn the show back on, and they see some of these old fan favorites engaging again, it’s going to put that audience in that great place.

Bill & Susan Hayes Appearance

(Click on Flyer to Enlarge)

Although they spelled Susan's name wrong in the flyer. Oops!

Drake and Deidre Are Back on Days!

Day's supercouple is finally reuniting! Days of Our Lives made it official today by announcing that Drake Hogestyn will reprise his role as John Black on Sept. 26. He joins Deidre Hall, who will also return to the NBC sudser to resume her role as Marlena Evans. The two are expected to begin production this week.

“We are thrilled that Deidre and Drake are rejoining the show, said Executive Producer Ken Corday in a statement. “I know their return will excite loyal fans and intrigue new viewers. We are gearing up for some amazing cast surprises and guest stars visiting Salem in the fall, launching a grand event airing on September 26.”

Patrick Muldoon and Christie Clark (Austin and Carrie) are heading back in September as well. Yay!

Read the rest here.

New Head-Writing Team at Days

Ken Corday, executive producer of Days of our Lives, announced today that Marlene McPherson and Darrell Ray Thomas have been named the head-writing team on NBC's longest-running scripted program, effective immediately.

Mr. Corday released this statement: "McPherson and Thomas will bring Days of our Lives back to its core values by telling exciting stories with a fresh and contemporary approach including beloved characters."

Days: Such a Tease!

THIS WEEK:

Stefano believes that Rafe (Galen Gering, pictured) has outlived his usefulness.

Philip discovers that Kate and Melanie have been conspiring against Chloe.

Abigail learns that Daniel is the doctor who saved Jennifer’s life.

Nicole asks EJ and Taylor about what’s going on between them.

Victor is determined to find a way to destroy Brady.

Thursday – Abby walks in on Daniel and Jennifer.

Friday – Philip reunites Chloe with Parker.

Days Contest!

Now until February 16, you can enter to win a breakfast with Camila Banus, Casey Deidrick, Natalia Livingston, Eric Martsolf, Chandler Massey and Arianne Zucker (pictured)! If you are in the Coconut Grove, Florida, encourage them to enter now for a chance for you and a guest to enjoy breakfast with them on Sunday, February 20, 2011! In order to enter, you have to be participating in NBC’s Fan It Rewards program, which is easy to enroll in if you aren’t signed up yet. You can get all the details here: http://my.nbc.com/fan-it/rewards/sweepstakes/3021

Days: Such a Tease!

NEXT WEEK:

Nicole suspects that Taylor has an ulterior motive.

Maggie encourages Melanie to give Nathan another chance.

Carly (Crystal Chappell, pictured) tells Bo that she can’t stand in the way of him and Hope.

Kate is euphoric over an opportunity to get Parker away from Chloe.

EJ tells Stefano to go ahead tonight with their plans for Rafe.

Thursday – Daniel holds Jennifer’s life in his hands.

Friday – Rafe and Johnny return from the hospital.

Days: Such a Tease!

THIS WEEK:

Nicole questions EJ about the noises coming from the basement.

Kate tells Melanie that she must put her child first.

Hope is concerned that so many of her loved ones are danger.

Chloe (Nadia Bjorlin, pictured) makes a desperate attempt to get Daniel back.

Vivian tells Maggie that she can’t hide behind Victor’s marriage any longer.

Thursday – Sami and Rafe have an argument that leads to disaster.

Friday – Carly reveals to Jennifer that the prison is selling body parts!