Casting News: Julie Pinson to Join ATWT

Julie Pinson is set to join her "brother," Austin Peck on the set of As the World Turns. Julie -- who previously played Billie Reed on Days of Our Lives, sister to Austin's former character, Austin Reed -- joins Austin and the rest of the gang in Oakdale starting May 8th. She will play the recurring character of Janet Ciccone.

HUGE Shake-ups at Days!

In a move that producers hope will help with sagging ratings, Days of Our Lives is cleaning house, and many fan favorites have been given the boot.

Among those delivered the infamous pink slip are Julie Pinson (Billie Reed), Martha Madison (Belle Brady) and Brandon Beemer (Shawn Brady). At least for Shawn and Belle, this might mean that they finally will get their happily ever after, far away from Salem. And Billie hasn't really had all that much to do lately, and I was pretty much creeped out by her Mrs. Robinson turn with her one night stand with Nick a while back.

Also feeling the weight of the almighty ax is the ENTIRE writing team, including head writer Hogan Sheffer. Former Days writer Dena Higley will take over as interim head writer.

Former GH actress, Tamara Braun, has been added to the cast as Ava, a mysterious woman from Steve's past. She makes her on-screen debut tomorrow, Feb. 8.

Only time will tell if these shake-ups are able to shake the ratings up!