The Young and the Restless Summer 2007 Preview

After Victor returns from Sri Lanka, Jack's political career -- and their friendship -- might be over.

Kevin and Colleen grow closer in an attempt to set up Jana. Will these former enemies fall in lust?

Jack's dirty political tricks could mean the end of Nikki and Victor's marriage. Also, a moment of indiscretion might not only cost one of the candidates his/her marriage but possibly his/her life.

Michael and Lauren's happiness could be destroyed after a deep, dark secret surfaces.

Gloria might finally pay for her crimes. Will her marriage to William prove to be her undoing?

Principal Cast Members of Passions to Make the Switch to DirecTV

Great news for Passions fans. Many of the principal cast members will be following the soaps move over to DirecTV. It has been a concern for many fans that with the switch, and resulting budget cuts, that the show would not be able to afford to keep on many of the regulars. However, in the press release below, you can see that many of the actors will be back:

'PASSIONS' ACTORS MAKE THE SWITCH TO DIRECTV

BURBANK - MAY 23, 2007 -NBC Universal Television Studio has signed principal cast members of the hit daytime drama "Passions" to new contracts, ensuring that they will continue with the soap when it makes the move from NBC to The 101 on DIRECTV on September 17.

Those continuing with the series include: Eric Martsolf (Ethan), Ben Masters (Julian), Kim Johnston Ulrich (Ivy), Dylan Fergus (Noah), Galen Gering (Luis), Emily Harper (Fancy), Lindsay Hartley (Theresa), Liza Huber (Gwen), James Hyde (Sam), Juliet Mills (Tabitha), Heidi Mueller (Kay), Tracey Ross (Eve), Eva Tamargo (Pilar), McKenzie Westmore (Sheridan) and Erin Cardillo (Esme).

"We are thrilled that the principal cast members will continue on the show," said Annamarie Kostura, VP Daytime, NBC Universal. "It is important that the fans know that the show will still be the same after the move."

"This is great news for fans of the show who will be able to seamlessly join their favorite characters for new adventures on The 101," said Patty Ishimoto, General Manager, DIRECTV Entertainment. "We are excited about the news and are busy getting ready to welcome 'Passions' to its new home on DIRECTV.

Based on the rich history and mystery of the harbor community of Harmony, "Passions" explores the lives, loves and losses of four core families: the Cranes, the Lopez-Fitzgeralds, the Bennetts and the Russells, each of whom have their own distinct and diverse challenges and desires.

"Passions" is produced by NBC Universal Television Studio and is taped in Studio City, California.

SPOILERS! Week of May 28th

AMC: Colby discovers Sean's cheatin' ways.
ATWT: Maggie's private message to Casey takes a detour through Noah.
B&B: Felicia confronts Constantine about what he's really after.
Days: An old letter may provide answers to the origin of the DiMera-Brady feud.
GH: Determined to carry Jason's baby, Sam explores her fertility options.
GL: Cassie asks her sister to spend the night with her fiance.
OLTL: Jessica says goodbye to her family after all hope is lost.
Passions: Grace's diary could expose the blackmailer's identity.
Y&R: Amber's ex makes an unwelcome appearance in Genoa City.

Cleo Parodied on "SNL?"

I'm about a week behind catching up on my DVR for my primetime shows, so I just watched the "Saturday Night Live" episode from last Saturday hosted by "Scrubs" star Zach Braff. If anyone watched the sketch with the hilarious Fred Armisen playing a receptionist named Melissa who has a crush on Zach, did you wonder if Fred is an "ATWT" fan? Melissa reminded me so much of Cleo Babbitt, Gwen's lookalike who has a crush on Gwen's husband, Will, it was uncanny. Same wig, similar voice and mannerisms - the only thing missing were the huge teeth.

Here is a You Tube link to the sketch in case you missed it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeDtC4yl6xg

MORE Familiar Faces Return to Days!

In another bold move to generate higher ratings (and, presumably, to avoid the fate of Passions), Days of Our Lives has re-signed Renee Jones to return to her role of Lexie Carver on June 14.

Also, Anna Fredricks Brady DiMera will be returning, in the form of original portrayer, Leann Hunley. Leann played Anna from 1982-86, winning a Best Supporting Actress Daytime Emmy Award in 1986 for the role. A little off-topic, I really liked her character, Tamara Jacobs, on Dawson's Creek. You know, the teacher who had an affair with her young student, Pacey Witter. I know it was wrong, but who cares -- it's fiction, right?

Also, check out the pic below of Leann and Thaoo Penghlis back in the day. Love it!

New All My Children Head Writers Announced

All My Children has filled the shoes of former head writer Megan McTavish with two well-known writers: Barbara J. Esensten and James Harmon Brown. The two previously have written for Dynasty, Guiding Light, Days of Ours Lives and One Life to Live, to name a few.

According to a statement by ABC's Brian Scott Frons: "We're thrilled to welcome this talented team back to ABC. They're known for telling compelling stories that take characters and viewers on a great emotional ride, and their creative vision promises to continue the show's tradition of cutting-edge storylines. Fans can expect an exciting summer in Pine Valley and can look forward to even more of the romance and intrigue they have come to love and look for on All My Children."

"Combined with their ability to take creative and emotional risks, Barbara and Jim write with commitment to character integrity and honesty," added AMC executive producer Julie Hanan Carruthers. "I look forward to working with them again and welcome them to All My Children."

Farah Fath Coming to OLTL

Farah Fath (ex-Mimi, Days) will be arriving in Llanview in September. According to the actress's Web site: "I was considered for [Sarah Roberts, who will be played by newcomer Justis Bolding] but the execs have decided to write a role just for me, which is why I won't start taping for a few months. I am SO honored and excited."

I am expecially excited for the actress because when I spoke with her last year (after she had announced she was leaving Days), she was eager to try on a new role other than Mimi, which was her first major role in "the biz." And now, only a few months later, Farah has inked a multiyear deal with an awesome show.

Congrats, Farah. We can't wait to see you this Fall!

Days Casting News

On Thursday, May 31, Steve Blackwood returns to the role of Bart, the DiMera's (and my fave) henchman. I love the comic relief he brings to his scenes, especially his interaction with Thaao Penghlis. The exasperated looks Tony gives poor Bart could melt the ice off and Eskimo's igloo!

Trevor Donovan will be coming to Salem on Friday, June 1 as Stephanie's bad-boy boyfriend, Jeremy Horton (son of Mike Horton and Robin Jacobs, cousin to Abby Horton).

Arriving with Jeremy will be Jett Carver, played by Marcus Patrick, who is the son of Abe's dead brother, Theo.

Need More Spoilers?!?! Look Below!

The Bold and the Beautiful
Tomorrow, Stephanie fiercely protects Ridge from Brooke and the two ladies do battle.

Days of Our Lives
Thaao Penghlis returns as Tony DiMera on Thursday, as EJ drugs Sami and brings her right to Tony! Also, on Friday, Belle asks comatose John for a sign of Claire's safety and he gives her one -- he wakes up! Next week, Shawn, Belle and Philip realize that Claire was taken. Sami challenges EJ to propose a truce between the DiMeras and the Bradys.

Passions
Next week, Whitney tells Chad that she hates him, as he begs her for forgiveness. Julian tells Theresa he knows that Ethan is Little Ethan's father. The Half-Man/Half-Woman pulls a gun on Father Lonigan.

SPOILERS! Week of May 21st

Sorry these are a bit late - I completely forgot! Have a good week and enjoy your stories :)

AMC: Zach keeps Hannah's special request a secret from Kendall.
ATWT: Gwen invites Cleo to live with her and Will, a decision she most likely will come to regret.
B&B: Ridge wrestles with his conscience. Will he turn himself in before Nick is sentenced?
Days: A comatose John shows signs of life during Belle's visit.
GH: Carly finds herself a new female rival in Kate, Sonny's new neighbor.
GL: Natalia's son Rafe, the latest juvi inmate, comes to Daisy's rescue.
OLTL: Marty seeks help from a fellow counselor after having a disturbing memory.
Passions: This is the week Whitney learns the truth about Chad!
Y&R: Gloria's dreams -- and nightmares -- come true when Will makes a move.