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Good food, good drink, good company, good atmosphere and good conversation... what else could a bunch of soapcentric girls want? Well, honestly, we want those things and wish we all lived close enough for that to happen (more than once a year, anyway). In lieu of that, we settle for emails flying all across the country and ultimately landing here at the EOS Round Table conference where we will slice, dice and pick apart specific subjects pertaining to ABC soaps or soaps in general. We welcome you to get a drink, place a food order, put up your fuzzy bunny slippers and join us. This time, our Round Table will focus on the ABC Daytime Dramas in 2008; the bests, the worsts and what we thought of each. All EOS staff writers who participated in this did so on their own, so similar responses are a coincidence. Writers were given the choice of adding their own categories or skipping questions that did not inspire them. They also were allowed to choose whether to divide their responses into separate shows or to make choices based on all ABC soaps. Below is the compilation of their responses for your entertainment. Many thanks to the staff members who participated in this project!
Best Story Daytime Diva: I hate so say it, but The Manning Mess on OLTL has got to take the cake. From Todd's massive over reaction to Starr and Cole's getting physical we knew that he was hopelessly twisted by his rape of Marty. He was incapable of grasping that young people in love will sooner or later have sex. He was fundamentally unable to fathom romantic love and sex. To him, Cole was a rapist because his understanding of sex had nothing to do with romance or love. Everything from then on; beating Cole after the kids ran away, keeping Marty clueless about the real world and feeding her altered history, allowing her to seduce him, plotting to kidnap his own grandchild was all a set up to teach Todd that romantic love can change a man's heart. Too bad it was nasty. Media Ho: AMC - In spite of the improbability of it all, Angie and Jesse’s return made my heart go pitter-pat and my eyes go all weepy, at the appropriate times. Their reunion at the train station was beautiful, as was the ensuing wedding, one of the loveliest I’ve seen on daytime. I just love them, even when they misbehave on occasion. And what a coup to get Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams back on the show. Fabulous. GH - Though I hate it when children are injured or killed, I do admit that the shooting of Michael Corinthos and his subsequent coma drove many good stories. All the actors brought their “A” game to the table. Therefore, I (grudgingly) call it the best story of the year in Port Charles. The Gourmez: The Launch of Crimson. This storyline wins for me for several reasons. 1. We got to see a smart businesswoman apprenticing Maxie and giving her a career. 2. Maxie and Lulu were able to bury the hatchet through mutually trying to avoid the wrath of Kate. 3. It was not related to the mob. Trish Fodor: All My Children’s Brot and Taylor. With a less talented actor, this may not have worked, but AMC managed to take a real life veteran and his story and bring it to the screen without exploitation. It’s been fun to see JR Martinez grow as an actor. After seeing him and Beth Ehlers on The View recently, it’s no wonder that he’s a natural. To me, the scars faded away a long time ago and now I’d like to see Brot and Taylor rekindle their relationship. (Sorry, Jake!) Kate Brown: So few to choose from but I’ll go with Jesse’s and Angie’s reunion on All My Children. Finally, characters return with a story that makes soap sense and has heart.
I mean, really, can they say anything other than the SSDD their actors have been spewing for months now? I’m over it. The only show I feel brought any depth to their characters this year was One Life to Live. Nash dying was heartbreaking but to watch Tess come back and wreak havoc on those she wanted to punish was fun. Was it quality story-writing deserving of a “best story” award? Probably not but for sheer pleasure, it was utterly enjoyable. Okay, okay, the whole Natalie and Jared locked in a safe room did get a bit old, I admit but aside from that, I have enjoyed the Jess/Tess/Bess story even though we had to lose a wonderfully hot piece of eye candy to get it.
Dianna - OLTL - Marty and Todd. This should surprise no one as the intricacies of this storyline are just what a soap opera is about. When you can't decide whose right or wrong, when you can feel some form of compassion for the villain in all this, well that is just fine storytelling. Katrina: Although I was VERY squeamish about the underage sex (with Kirsten Alderson and Brandon Buddy's actual actor ages running through my head the whole time - sheesh!), I thought the story of their unplanned pregnancy brought many positives to the screen. All actors involved, and there were many who were drawn into this story, gave their all and delivered stunning performances and the story was extremely defining in terms of character development and placement. The writing was sharp and in tune with character identity and motivation. Many of the characters involved, from Marcie & Michael to Markko and Langston to Blair and John, ended up in different places by the time the story was culminating - and it still has miles to go with the reveal of Chloe as the real Hope being the shoe that is waiting to drop. For its pure impact, I have to rate it as the best of the year. Best Couple Daytime Diva: Rex and Gigi; Come ON! She went back IN TIME to save him. I mean, shoot? What beats that kind of love? Nothing. They are both sexy, they sizzle with hot sexual energy and the baby daddy drama is not over yet as we are tempted by the question of who is Rex's daddy and why would Roxy have hid the identity for all these years? (Asa, you dog, It had better not be you!) Media Ho: AMC - Angie and Jesse Hubbard, without a doubt. I also like the budding romance between Frankie and Randi. GH - It comes down to three of the most unconventional pairings in my book: Luke and Tracy, Spinelli and Maxie, and Alexis and Diane. Granted, Alexis and Diane aren’t a “couple,” per se, but when they face off, there’s nothing better. The Gourmez: Robin and Patrick win again. Though the couple is often saddled with ridiculous fights (Robin won't say yes, Patrick starts his own blog) they always come through more in love than they were before. Both characters have grown a LOT this year and gosh darn it, I do believe they can weather anything. Trish Fodor: Tracy Quartermaine and Luke Spencer. They actually survived the “Laura” test and that’s no small feat. There is something very real about these two. Sure, they are from very different worlds but they are also very much alike. Both have a bit of a selfish streak, both love the finer things in life and both are survivors. Tracy’s one tough broad who has managed to thrive in both the corporate and political worlds. Luke? Well, he’s Luke, always quick to pour a drink and light up a stogie. Keeping these two together is one of the things that General Hospital has done right. Kate Brown: Viki and Charlie (OLTL). It is refreshing to see a couple over the age of 40 having a front burner romance. Carolyn Aspenson: Wow, I can really feel the fact that “I’m just not that into the soaps” this year because I have had to think too much on this one. Jason and Elizabeth? Nope. The whole whining-and-fighting-about-being-together-in-every-flipping-scene gets on my nerves. Way to ruin a great couple. There are however, some characters that are just fun to watch and unfortunately, there are some that require a barf bag on hand. I can name a lot of barf inducing couples...Ryan and Greenlee, Babe and JR, Jared and Natalie, Lulu and Johnny... Sometimes we get lucky and the combination of the two makes for a good fit. This year, my best couple goes to Nadine and Nikolas.
Nadine and Nikolas weren’t my only choice for best couple. I also considered Maxie and Spinelli because separately each character annoys the heck out of me but together they’re quirky and fun. I chose Nikolas and Nadine however because as much as I do like Spinelli and Maxie together, I have found myself forwarding through them when he starts talking and I can’t understand what he’s saying. In my book, if you forward though something then it shouldn’t be able to get an award. Dianna: GH - Maxie and Spinelli. These two are the only couple with any sort of real foundation on which to build upon. OLTL - Jess and Nash. I loved this story and I loved these two as a couple. Sure at times the relationship was a little stalkerish, but on the whole I felt these two belonged together. Katrina: Through thick and thin, the couple who understands one another best and loves one another deeply despite their acute awareness of the inherent, glaring faults of their partner is Luke and Tracy. Their love is honest and true and rooted in mutual respect and understanding coupled up nicely with a no-frills understanding of the reality of their circumstances. They are a staunch representation of the challenges couples face when they find love after a lifetime of years of baggage has attached itself to them. They have come together and broken up several times, always out of fear of losing the other one. Max and Dianne are a close second, just because they are so much fun together. Luke and Tracy, however, seem to have staying power. Hottest Guy Daytime Diva: Newcomer Daniel Kennedy who plays Petey Cortlandt on AMC. OMG, Incredibly HOTT! Media Ho: AMC - Oh, without a doubt, it is that devilishly sexy yet defiantly deviant Dr. David Hayward! (Did you think I'd say Petey or Jake?) GH - If the criteria were who would you most like to see nekkid on a bear rug, it would be a toss-up between Nikolas, Johnny and Jason. However, the thinking gal's choice would have to be Spinelli. Not sizzling in the conventional sense, but his sense of loyalty, incredible cyber skills, incredible vocabulary, and his quirky charm all meld together to make him one hot dude. Plus, he can dance! The Gourmez: Greg Vaughn. He has a perfectly smooth face, a sparkle in his eye, and can find his way into anyone's dreams. Feeling Lucky? Maxine Bennett: Maurice Benard. Trish Fodor: Gotta give this one to Rick Hearst. Like fine wine, he just keeps getting better every year. Your age looks good on you, my friend! Kate Brown: David Fumero (OLTL). Carolyn Aspenson: Hottest Guy is Rex . Dianna: GH - Jason Morgan hands down. OLTL - I'm going to have to go with John McBain. He isn't the classic good looking guy but he just exudes pure sex appeal. I wouldn't kick him out of bed. Katrina: I like older men. It's David Canary all the way for me. Hottest Gal Daytime Diva: Kirsten Storms, Maxie Jones is beautiful, gorgeous, perfect! Media Ho: AMC - Amanda Dillion is one hot little chickadee. Runner up? Randi. Both of these gals can really smolder with the best of them. GH - Anna Devane. Remember how Patrick salivated over his future mom-in-law? He's not alone. This MILF-turned GILF is still one hot momma, AND she's a martial arts expert still working in the field with many spies who most likely love her.Sam McCall is the runner-up here, but I think even she would have to give props to the still-sexy-at-any-age Devane. The Gourmez: Kelly Monaco. She has an ideal body and when she's not forced to make parts of it pop out of teeny tank tops, she looks fantastic. That mane of dark hair is awfully temptuous as well. Maxine Bennett: Kirsten Storms (Maxie from GH). Trish Fodor: Laura Wright remains one of the most beautiful women in daytime. Her eyes are simply amazing and that golden mane of curls makes me envious. I’ve watched her since she was on Loving and thought she was beautiful then. Again, time has been very good to Laura. Kate Brown: Finola Hughes (GH). Carolyn Aspenson: Hottest Gal is me. Okay, I’m not actually ON the soap so I don’t count. Hottest gal to me is Laura Wright. I just think she’s cute as can be. Dianna: GH - She doesn't do much for me but no one does gun toting, cleavage baring wet (hot tub scenes) and sexy quite like Sam McCall. OLTL - Always strikes me as the soap with more normal looking people. They look like people you would see at the mall or having drinks in a bar and that is one of my favorite things about this show. I'm going to have to go with Talia. Plus she by far as the best hair. Katrina: In terms of who is the absolute purtiest, I have to go with the gal who plays Randi on AMC. Also, I never thought I'd say it, but Genie Francis was workin that bath robe. Best Kiss Daytime Diva: I got nothing. The closest I can come would be Ric and Claudia on GH. Hott stuff. Double TT intentional. LOL. Oh now, wait a minute... Frankie and Randi's kissing did start my TV to sweat. There was smoke. Media Ho: AMC - Call me predictable, I don’t care: when Angie and Jesse kissed at the train station after 20 years apart. GH - I think Jax and Carly’s “farewell to our marriage” kiss was pretty sizzling, though Luke and Tracy had a couple of hot spit-swapping moments of their own. The Gourmez: Ric and Claudia. This was followed by the Steamiest Love Scene of the year. I had no idea daytime was allowed to show that much skin! Trish Fodor: Bianca and Reese shared my favorite kiss this year. I have to give these talented actresses due respect; the love and affection between them radiates on screen. I especially give kudos to Tamara Braun. As I witnessed their first kiss (on screen), I could see the same tenderness in her eyes that she used to look at Maurice Bernard (Sonny Corinthos) with. Now, that’s great acting! Kate Brown: Adam and Erica (AMC). It wasn’t romantic but it sure was fun. Carolyn Aspenson: Did anyone actually have a real kiss on a soap this year? I don’t mean just a standard kiss but a real, make your eyes pop out of your head, heart stopping kiss? If you can remember one, let me know because I got nothing.
Nope, too contrived and Jax looks like he’s got spit in his mouth. Kate looks like she’s forcing it.
Too many ‘ews’ there for me. Katrina: It barely made the cut by airing on December 30th, but when Luke nuzzled Tracy and she finally gave in and planted a passionate soul kiss right on his grizzled muzzle, I melted. Best Surprise Twist Daytime Diva: Surprise twist, are you serious? On what planet? With spoilers prevalent and the fans knowing every single thing that's going to happen before it's even filmed? Snort. Not likely but if one were possible I'd say Todd romancing Marty with lies of omission. Scandalous! Media Ho: AMC - There were a few this year. Brot’s alive, Binks is knocked up with Zach’s sperm (though no one bothered to ask Kendall’s opinion/permission), Greenlee wasn’t real for a while until Rebecca Budig came back, Babe’s dead, and a certain devilishly sexy doc returned to town just as his aforementioned daughter bit the big one. GH Let’s see: Laura woke up again, Jason made Sonny give up custody of his sons as a condition of relieving Sonny of his mob family, Spinelli schtupped Maxie, and Max and Milo’s dad came to town, thinking his boys were the town kingpins. The Gourmez: Jason telling Carly to shut the hell up about Elizabeth on multiple occasions. He actually stood up to her! Repeatedly! And she took it! Repeatedly! Trish Fodor: Zach Slater is baby Gabrielle’s biological father. There have been few things that have really taken me by surprise this year but that one did. The funny thing is that it doesn’t seem as much like a complication to me where Kendall and Zach are concerned as it is an interesting plot twist in the Bianca/Reese/Zach triangle that AMC is toying with. Somehow, they’ve managed to form a non-traditional family of seven (including the Slater boys). Very interesting… Kate Brown: Charles Pratt hasn’t brought the mob to PV (yet). Carolyn Aspenson: This isn’t really a surprise twist but it’s an ‘added dimension’ and that’s the best I can get from recaps and my much over-used, under-appreciated brain. Jess/Tess and now, Bess.
Mostly, I like the story because Bess is one of my middle names. I have several, my parents are indecisive. Okay, that’s not the real reason I liked this added dimension. I like this because it gives more meat to the story, helps to carry other stories and creates an opportunity for good soapy drama. Twists are supposed to be great set ups for additional stories, character building opportunities and total drama to watch but so many times we get another “back from the dead” twist and those leave me feeling cheated. Really, how many people can fall off a cliff into a rocky river and manage to stay alive, have reconstructive surgery and then come back to seek revenge on the person who pushed them? Been there, done that. Okay, watched it, not actually participated in it. Just making sure you got that. Seriously, there’s only so much a writer can do to twist and surprise an audience and even though most of the elements of this story have been done before, the way they’re put together is fresh and fun. Dianna: OLTL - Although it may not last too long, I was shocked when John chose Blair over Marty. Katrina: Even with spoilers, I was genuinely wondering whether or not Laura had actually come out of her catatonia. I vote for that one. Best Friendship Daytime Diva: Maxie and Spinelli, GH. The friendship that was forged when they lost Georgie is just the beginning (if TPTB have the NADS to go with them and not abort them to force their preconceived agenda). It's a beauty to behold. Media Ho: AMC - Zach and Myrtle, hands down. GH - A tie between Spinelli and Stone Cold and Spinelli and Maxie. Either pair would kill for each other. The Gourmez: Diane, Kate, and Alexis. These three women were in dire need of a good girlfriend by the end of the winter. Luckily, their shared senses of style and and “take no prisoners” professional lives bonded them together throughout the crises each had. Now, if they could just have a girls' night at Jake's, I'd be in heaven. Trish Fodor: Maxie and Spinelli! Even though it sorrows me to see Spinelli suffering from unrequited love, I can’t help but adore Maxie for being honest about her feelings. Sometimes friends are closer than romantic couples and they tend to last a lot longer too, especially in daytime! Kate Brown: Bo and Rex (OLTL). Carolyn Aspenson: Gee, are there any friends on the ABC soaps anymore? Aside from the drinking women of GH, which does nothing for me, I don’t really think there’s been any friendships showcased this year. Sure, there’s Patrick and Coleman on GH but I can’t really count them because talking to a bartender in a bar and having no other social contact with him doesn’t really count for a friendship. It’s a reach at best. What friendship do I THINK would be a great friendship? Anne and Greenlee. How fun would that be? They could sit around and bash on Ryan, talk trash about Kendall and bask in Zach’s hotness. The only problem with it is that I would want Sabine Singh to be Greenlee, not Rebecca Budig. Yeah, I know, realistically that will never happen, so let’s see who else has potential... Oddly, I like Elizabeth and Sam as potential friends. They are so incredibly opposite that they might actually make each other more interesting. Probably not going to happen though since they have that whole man-sharing problem going on. Carly and Olivia have potential. I’d enjoy seeing them work a few guys at Jake's and then leave them hanging. Might remind me of the good ole’ days when my friends and I would do the same. Well, we liked to THINK we were doing the same but probably we weren’t. Dianna: GH - Spinelli and Jason. Although it may seem slightly reminiscent of the original friendship between Sonny and Stone, both Bradford Anderson and Steve Morgan bring something new and refreshing to the story and if they can keep him the PTB should keep Spinelli around for a long time to come. OLTL - Tess and Todd. Tess and Todd make great allies especially when they are keeping the other one's secrets. This is a friendship made next to the gates of hell. Katrina: Although I dislike intensely 2 of the characters involved, my favorite friendship was Dianne, Alexis and Kate. They did make me laugh. Best Actor Daytime Diva: Trevor St. John, I hate Todd so much but I love TSJ. He is mired in the filth of decades of horrible, hack writing and still bringing his A game every day. You would think that he could "phone in" this portrayal. I mean it hasn't been original in light years but instead of just showing up and laying down the lines he manages to try to bring something else into this, preventing Todd from becoming the one note character he could be. Media Ho: AMC - Evil is as evil does: a tie between David “Adam/Stuart” Canary and Vincent “David” Irizarry. Special props to Darnell “Jesse” Williams. GH - Bradford “Spinelli” Anderson. Oh, sure, there are several fine actors on the show, but Tony Geary can’t win ALL the time. Anderson’s wide range is impressive. The Gourmez: Jason Thompson has blown me away this year. The man wasn't bad when he started three years ago but my how his acting skills have grown! I think he may have perfected the art of keeping tears welling in his eyes and making women swoon when he holds a baby, even those of us who don't like babies! I am continually impressed by the strength of love he can project towards his acting partner on a daily basis. Please keep him on contract. Trish Fodor: I’m biased as hell, but I’ll pick two, Rick Hearst and Stephen Macht. They hit it out of the park in every scene together or separately! I re-watched the scene where Trevor blackmailed Ric for Alcazar’s piers again recently and their work just blew me away. Hint: It’s well worth taking a second look on You Tube. Kate Brown: Always and forever David Canary. No matter how ridiculous the story, he makes it work. Carolyn Aspenson: For me it’s an easy pick. Tristan Rogers.
If that man can come back to GH purely as comic relief without the ‘umph’ the character once had and do it without wanting to kick the collective asses of the show’s writers, then he deserves an Emmy. Hands down. And I will personally deliver it to him in the privacy of my hotel room if he so desires. Kathy, you’ll have to be gone then because I’ve got plans, baby. Dianna: GH - Steve Burton as Jason. Time and time again, Steve brings forth a multitude of emotions and is stellar with any material he is given. He plays wounded without being over done, vulnerable without pity and deadly with a stare that could stop a herd of charging bulls. OLTL - Trevor St. John as Todd Manning. The reason are simple as this man truly rivets me. I never fast forward a Todd scene and I have never before seen a character so evil yet so sad and vulnerable at the same time. Trevor St. John makes Todd human. Katrina: David Canary (AMC). Best Actress Daytime Diva: Kristen Alderson. Starr's coming of age one night stand left her pregnant and she handled it much better than I ever thought she would. This little actress can really act! Media Ho: AMC - My favorites? Chrishell “Amanda” Stause, Debbi “Angie” Morgan, and the one and only La Lucci. GH - Gotta send some love to Sonya “Epiphany” Eddy, along with Jane “Tracy” Elliot, Laura “Carly” Wright, and Nancy Lee “Alexis” Grahn. Hard to pick just one, especially when that last one gets hardly any screen time. The Gourmez: Megan Ward continues to impress me with her portrayal of Kate Howard. She's very good when acting as head of Crimson and quite convincing when she slips into the behavior and speech pattern of Connie Falconeri. I can see the switch but also how both her past and present personas make the whole woman and that is thanks to Ms. Ward's performance. Trish Fodor: Tamara Braun. Admittedly, her work is something that has taken me time to truly appreciate, but appreciate it I do. There are subtleties to her performances that I find intriguing. So much is said with those huge eyes of hers. I think that she’s grown tremendously as an actress since she was on General Hospital. Such a joy to watch! Kate Brown:
It was close but Melissa Claire
Egan beat Bobbie Eakes by a Carolyn Aspenson: I checked out the recent addition of SOD at the grocery store today and noticed that it’s the same characters in the favorite spots all the time. Why can’t we fans mix it up a bit? Greenlee. Carly. Natalie. Etc. etc. etc.
My vote for best
actress is Carolyn Hennessy. Not only is the woman great at comedy, she has an incredible ability to make other actors on the show (whom I personally think lack talent) shine. I won’t mention the name of the actor or her character but I bet there are a few of you out there who know exactly who I’m talking about. Carolyn Hennessy can do drama. She can do comedy. She can do bitchy. She can do sex with a younger, less intelligent man, which is clearly a skill I admire. Plus, she’s got class and she can write. Bundle all of that up and I just really like her so if for no other reason, that’s why I give her the best actress award but really, she acts extremely well. A true professional and a very nice person too. Dianna: OLTL - Susan Haskel as Marty Saybrook. I know she has just returned but I truly believe they could not have pulled this storyline off without her. The recast of Marty last year (IMO) was an empty shell, a caricature. Having Susan Haskel back makes this story real. She has played her part of the accidental willing victim to a T. I feel her at odds with her feeling for Todd every time she is onscreen. Katrina: Carolyn Hennessy (GH) and Robin Strasser (OLTL). Best Recast Daytime Diva: That's an oxymoron, isn't it? Media Ho: AMC - Let’s give this one to Amanda (ex-Babe) Baker. I much preferred her version of Babe (but let’s remember, she didn’t do any babynapping, cheatin’ or other nasty stuff). GH - This is a different kind of recast. They took the original Carly, Sarah Brown, and created a new character for her. (Rumor has it that’s being done next month with a certain “heart of the Quartermaine family.”) Personally, I like it. Trish Fodor: Jake Martin. Ricky Paull Goldin has redefined the character and made it his own. Even though his romance with Taylor has been hijacked for the moment, I enjoy him in every scene. Applause! Applause! Kate Brown: Daniel Kennedy as Peter Pete Petey Cortlandt. His take on the character is exactly how I imagined the semi-adult Petey would be (AMC). Carolyn Aspenson: Does Susan Haskell count as a recast? There seems to be slim pickings for this year. I would have said Sabine Singh but she started in 2007 so she’s out. I guess I’m going to have to go with Susan Haskell. I don’t know if Christina Chambers could have pulled off the stuff that’s coming up for Marty because I never really felt she grabbed hold of the character like other recasts have done with their roles. If they could recast Kendall I might like the character better. No, probably not. Dianna: I can't recall a single recast this year which to me tells me there wasn't a best one on GH or OLTL or they would be more memorable. Katrina: Ricky Paull Goldin, only because he continued the tradition so well of Jake being a totally mindless dick. Best Return of a Vet Daytime Diva: Robert Scorpio on Night Shift and then on the wedding episodes of GH. The Scorpio-Devane-Drake story was the best thing I saw on GH all year!! Media Ho: AMC - Three definites: Debbi Morgan, Darnell Williams, and Vincent Irizarry. Rebecca Budig would make that four if only the writing for Greenlee had been better, but that’s hardly her fault. A pat on the back for Larry “ex-Greg” Lau for showing up at the Hubbard nuptials and getting shot for his trouble. GH - Tristan “Robert” Rogers and Genie “Laura” Francis. Much too short, but they make me smile. The Gourmez: Finola Hughes. Anna Devane reacquainted us with her maternal and emotional sides this year. She was fabulous when giving her daughter pep talks at bedside, reconnecting with Robert on Night Shift, and being a woman of strength for her family whenever needed. Plus, she's a spy! Trish Fodor: Tristan Rogers as Robert Scorpio. I always loved him and he did not disappoint in his recent return. I only wish he stayed longer and was given better material. (Thank you, GH Nightshift, for picking up the slack on that one!) Kate Brown: A true tie - Debbi Morgan and Darnell Williams. Carolyn Aspenson: Let’s see, we have Susan Haskell, Tamara Braun, Andrea Evans, Sarah Brown, Genie Francis, Tristan Rogers and Phil Carey, to name a few. As I write this, the ‘80’s teenage girl in me is shouting, “Pick Tristan! Pick Tristan!” but I really have to stop paying attention to her. Yesterday she made me put on blue eye shadow. Thankfully I stopped her from putting on the leg warmers and Forenza sweater. It was truly frightening.
Hormones aside, I’m going to go with Phil Carey.
I so loved Asa. He was never the character I loved to hate, I simply loved him. The way he was written off was heartbreaking but I commend the actor for handling his situation the way he did and being loyal enough to his fans to come back, albeit it dead, and allow us to enjoy him more. If I were in his shoes, I would have stuck up my middle finger (probably on each hand) and told them where they could stick it but he’s a gentleman and let bygones be bygones. I wish they’d keep him around to haunt his family. How much fun he could have! Dianna: OLTL - Tina Lord Roberts. They may have brought her back a little spacier than before but no one plays the accidental accomplice better than Tina. Katrina: Nathan Fillion, only because I didn't think in a million years they'd get him. Having Janet come back as the same actress playing Lee Halpern playing another character was great. The Hubbards have done wonders for AMC in terms of making it more watchable and redirecting so much air time from the Kendall-Ryan crew. Best Character Daytime Diva: Angie Hubbard. She is most like real women I know. When she lost the love of her life 20 years ago she went on, lived her life and raised her son. She is a strong woman character, smart and resilient she has charm and looks and compassion. When she found the love of her life again she embraced it and accepted the terms with which he returned; cancerous ex-lover baby mamma and daughter included. I love the idea of this character. She may have allowed her man to rescue her a few times but we get the idea that if he hadn't she would have found a way to do it herself. She is a friend to kwak, a little over protective over her son (which I totally understand even as I grimace at her actions). Angie is what I want my soap heroine to be; imperfect and flawed but not criminal. Able to love and be loved and be hurt and still opening her arms to life. Media Ho: AMC - Why, that would be Dr. David Hayward, the villain you love to hate but don’t hate to love. GH - Spinelli, Spinelli, Spinelli! The Gourmez: Maxie Jones has been a light in the darkness this year. She brings a certain level of naivety, bitchiness, and self-centered truth to the show and I am glad to watch it. Her journey of growth through losing her sister and Coop and her bonding with Spinelli has been must watch TV. Also, she's actually good at her job and multi-tasks like a pro. Trish Fodor: Maxie Jones. She’s come a loooong way from the days of “Maximum Maxie.” It’s a rare treat to see a character grow so much on camera. Georgie’s death left a lasting impression on Maxie and you see her striving everyday to be a better person only to fall back to her flawed, selfish self. The difference is that Maxie owns her flaws and that makes me love her all the more. Kate Brown: Blair Cramer. She finally grew up by choosing her children over her S&M relationship with Todd. Carolyn Aspenson: I got nothing. Maybe Lucky’s dog Foster but I haven’t seen him in years.
Dianna: GH - Maxie Jones. This is a character that has truly grown. She is spunky and smart and funny and is completely aware of all her faults. She sees humor in her shortcomings yet doesn't apologize for who and what she is. There are many adults on this show that could learn from her. Kristen Storms had a rocky start (IMO) but now she owns this character. Katrina: Definitely David Vickers. Best Villain Daytime Diva: Anthony Zacharra as played by Bruce Weitz is over the top, ooey gooey good time villain. This is soap acting like it used to be! He throws himself into the part as if it is Shakespeare on the stage. He isn't trying to show us the complex layers of the tortured soul (thank God); he is just shithouse crazy and doing anything he wants to do. It's so much better than expecting us to embrace him as our next hero while he continues to be a murderer. He is a villain and a damned good one. Media Ho: AMC He’s delicious and he’s dastardly…he’s Dr. David Hayward! Special mention to those crazy kids, Melissa Claire “Annie” Egan and evil bro Billy “ex-Richie” Miller. GH - I’d like to say Cesar Faison, but since no one’s seen fit to resurrect him, how about Sebastian “Jerry Jacks” Roche? He’s the evilest of evildoers! The Gourmez: I want to hate Zombie Diego for killing Georgie Jones (I'm not too torn up about Emily) but I can't really hold it against him. At least his being found out as the Text Message Killer (ooh, thumbs of terror!) allowed me to put the blame for those murders squarely where they belonged—on the mob. Diego was focused almost completely on revenge against Jason for the wrongs done to the Alcazars and for that I loved him. His other focus? Brains. Mmm...brains. Trish Fodor: Definitely Stephen Macht’s Trevor Lansing. Unfortunately, we rarely see him these days, but his cruel manipulation of his son to get the Alcazar waterfront property was beneath contempt. This cunning man is evil personified but heavenly to watch as he plays puppet master to the “little” people of Port Charles. Kate Brown: Brian Frons is too easy so I’ll pass on this one. Carolyn Aspenson: Jerry Jacks. He’s hot. ‘Nuff said.
Dianna: OLTL - Carlo Hesser. There's a cold blooded, diabolical man if I've ever seen once. The man would kill his own daughter if it vetted him what he wanted. Katrina: David Hayward! The only one who even comes close to a villain on ABC Daytime! Best Dressed Daytime Diva: Maxie Jones has got it going on. From her hair to her well heeled toes she is chic, gorgeous, and more fashionable than the woman who runs the fashion mag! Kirsten Storms is beautiful and Maxie Jones is a unique being, a gorgeous clothes horse who doesn't immediately make women hate her for her looks! Media Ho: AMC - La Kane would have her minions hunt me down and dress me in last season’s couture if I didn’t give this one to her. GH - And the same would happen to me if I didn’t give this to Megan “Kate/Connie” Ward, so here ya go, Megs. The Gourmez: Once again, Maxie gets the win! When most of the rest of the cast was attacked by the wardrobe monster, Maxie always managed to find a dress of great taste and fun cuts. Strut it, sister! Trish Fodor: Maxie Jones. Wardrobe gives her stunning clothes to wear and Kirsten Storms has the hot little body to show off each and every new look. Kate Brown: Erica Kane - sometimes her style is over the top but her clothes always fit flawlessly. Carolyn Aspenson: Blair Cramer/Cassie DePaiva. She always looks nice, never really appears slutty, doesn’t have tacky clothing and wears clothes really, really well. I hate her. Katrina: Ric Lansing.
Best Special Guest Daytime Diva: Genie Francis, hand's down. Whenever GF is called to come back it beats out everything else automatically! She looks amazing and although I felt that she rather slept walk through some of the trite drivel that was given to her to work with this last time (seriously the chase scenes in the car with one psycho and being chased by another and she was not even mildly distressed? Uhm, ok.) It still beat out every thing else by a mile. Media Ho: AMC - My vote still goes to Larry Lau, though special props to Ne-Yo, Agnes Nixon and Francesca (ex-Kitty/Kelly) James (the latter two at Myrtle’s memorial, plus a special appearance by Nixon for the show’s 10,000th episode). GH - Vincent “Massimus Giambetti” Pastore was a hoot and a half. Bring him back! He was the only thing that made the mob scene tolerable! Trish Fodor: Agnes Nixon, based on pure sentiment. It was moving to see the show’s creator return to Pine Valley recently. It was as if there really was an angel on the set. Kate Brown: Agnes Nixon (AMC & OLTL). Most surprising return of a vet- Nathan Fillion (OLTL). Carolyn Aspenson: I have never really given a rat's a** about special appearances and I can’t stand most of the musical guests they’ve had on the shows this year so really, again, I got nothing. Katrina: Definitely Vincent Pastore as Maximus Giambetti. Best Stunt Casting Kate Brown: AMC hired an Iraqi vet for publicity and ratings. This is one of the few times stunt casting has worked. JR Martinez has screen charisma/talent making his character, Brot, one of the more interesting in Pine Valley. Best ABC Soap of the Year Daytime Diva: One Life to Live. They showed that there may be only one life to live, but with good writing and strong performances that the old girl may still have some life left to live after all. Media Ho: For me, of the two shows I watch, my hands-down favorite this year was All My Children. They gave us back the Hubbards and David Hayward, and for that alone, I’m very grateful. I also liked the lack of mobsters on the show, though there were some well-developed evil characters. Yes, there were some missteps along the way (and no, I’m not listing them all), but overall, this was my show for 2008. Trish Fodor: All My Children. Critics and ratings be damned! This show has been more entertaining to me day after day than the other two have. Kate Brown: One Life To Live. It wasn’t all good but it was an impressive improvement over the past several years. If One Life To Live can turn it around, why can’t All My Children and General Hospital? Most Memorable Episode: The tribute episode for Myrtle and Eileen Herlie. They don’t write characters like Myrtle any more. I am not sure there are actresses like Ms. Herlie any more, either. Best Scene: Kathy pushing over the ladder while Krystal was standing on the top rung! Carolyn Aspenson: I’m going to have to go with One Life To Live, which surprises me. Usually GH would just fly off my lips because of my attachment to the show in junior high and high school but that was so damn long ago I can’t use that excuse anymore. Besides, the show is much different than it was then, lacking so much of the fun, romance and heart it once had. So yeah, I’m going with One Life To Live. The writers write well for the characters, they connect stories so we can see several of our picks throughout the week and they don’t entirely focus on newbies. Most importantly, then work hard at staying true to the past, which for us long time viewers, means a lot. Dianna: I have to pick One Life to Live. This show is consistent, was full of surprises and brought back a whole bunch of wonderful people this year. OLTL is the one show that never fails to honor its history and is never afraid to take chances. Katrina: I definitely enjoyed One Life to Live more than the other two this year. Entertainer of the Year Daytime Diva: Mark Lawson. As Brody Lovett he did terrible things but at the end of the year he had the love of his almost son, the support of the woman he loves and the man he almost killed and managed to be someone we could root for. Plus, his shower scene was one of the hottest things I've ever seen in my life. Media Ho: This year, I'd say it's AMC's Susan "Erica" Lucci. She made it through to the last half of Dancing With The Stars, giving it her best shot and, for the most part, succeeding. This on top of a rigorous shooting schedule on AMC, which forced her to commute between the East and West coasts. (Yes, Cameron Mathison did it last year, but he's about 30 years younger, so no contest.) She was a good sport when she lost, making an amusing visit to Jimmy Kimmel Live that same evening, managed to make it to the last Super Soap Weekend in Orlando, and continued filming the show. She also had a few good stories this year, most notably a interracial romance (that almost happened), her stint in jail and subsequent breakout, lots of head butting with Adam, one daughter in a coma and another giving birth to a child with the assistance of coma daughter's husband's sperm, fighting with Greenlee over Fusion, losing dear friend Myrtle, and planning her daughter's commitment ceremony. Damn! La Lucci rocks! Maxine Bennett: Bradford Anderson aka Spinelli. Trish Fodor: For some, his character is annoying, but you have to give props to Bradford Anderson. He’s made “Spinelli” a household word for soap fans and even managed to get the attention of USA Today. He is a staple at public appearances and a fan favorite wherever he goes. I haven’t seen such frenzy over a character in a long while. Lest you forget his many talents, all you have to do is refer back to his daydream of dancing with Maxie. Not only was he light on his feet but the velvet voice crooning “You Can’t Take That Away from Me” was pure Bradford. I had the pleasure of complimenting him on his vocal talent at an event in Chicago this year. Anderson modestly blushed at the praise and then told me about his love for musical theater. He is versatile and talented beyond simply playing Damian Spinelli and a genuinely nice guy. That’s why Bradford Anderson gets my vote for ABC Daytime Entertainer of the Year. Kate Brown: David Canary. He makes every Adam scene worth watching. He never phones it in, he has chemistry with everyone, and he has that silver hair. Oh, and who can forget the nude boardroom scene? Maybe I should reconsider my vote for “Hottest Actor.” Carolyn Aspenson:
Dianna: OLTL - David Vickers. David is a character that never fails to bring humor to every situation. David's newfound feeling for Viki (as a friend) were poignant and touching. His marriage to Addie offered much needed comic relief and a tenderness to the character that you don't get to see very often. Watching David struggle with a thing called a conscience was priceless. Katrina: Tuc Watkins.
Worst Story Daytime Diva: Diego as the text message Killer. Lame. As it turned out it could have been Coop or Logan and been SO MUCH BETTER since both were savagely wasted on GH by the end of the year. It was crap. Media Ho: AMC - I truly dislike this odd triangle of Zach/Binks/Reese and the fact that Zach’s sperm donation was kept from his now-comatose wife. I also felt the show chickened out on Erica having an interracial romance. Much of Annie’s crazy story was annoying, too. But they more than made up for it with some of the good/great stories. GH - Where to begin? The whole idea that evil Jerry Jacks could be spreading terror with glee throughout the town and never bump into Bobbie, his one-time fiancée. The continuing mob saga (LIGHTEN UP!). Bringing Diego back as the text message killer and then rapidly disposing of him. And, sorry, but I’ve never been a fan of Robin Scorpio, so anything involving her makes this list. The Gourmez: Lulu and Johnny go on the run. It only narrowly beat out Joe the mechanic who held General Hospital hostage so his sick wife could possibly be blown up while getting treated. But as this one involved covering up a death by self-defense, running from the law all the way to Manhattan, and spending weeks with an obnoxious teenager and a ghost who couldn't afford proper backlighting, it wins the stinker of the year. Trish Fodor: Sonny and Kate’s love story. No amount of Bensonhurst flashbacks could weave together that grand romance for me. Kate is too self-absorbed and status conscious to ever care about anyone and Sonny would never fall for someone so pretentious. It fell flat on so many levels. One scene between Sonny and Cousin Olivia had more heat than “Skate’s” entire attempt at romance. Kate Brown: So many to choose from but I will go with the Ryan/Greens/Annie story from hell. Something is wrong when you find yourself hoping the crazy person takes everyone else out. Carolyn Aspenson:
Dianna: OLTL - Bo and Rex go back in time. This story annoyed me to no end. I'm all for time travel but this one just grated on my nerves. Perhaps it was seeing current character masked as old characters. Perhaps it was Delphina and her male alter ego. Either way, this was a storyline worth fast forwarding. Although Cristian marrying Vanessa is right up there. That one will continue to unfold throughout the New Year. GH - Jake gets kidnapped. Come on. This was a driving plot device to place Sam squarely back in Jason's life and nothing more. The kidnappers didn't even know it was Jason's son. Katrina: This story of Annie's reaction to Ryan's memory loss, degenerating into killing Richie and going nuts is just the worst. I'd rather watch Eternia. Worst Couple Daytime Diva: Lulu Spencer and Johnny Zacharra. I hate them. There is zero chemistry. Media Ho: AMC - Jake and anyone. Taylor and anyone. ESPECIALLY Jake and Taylor! GH - Three way tie: Sonny and Kate, Sonny and Carly, Sonny and his ego. The Gourmez: Nikolas and The Tumor were really, really difficult to watch. I mean, who wants to watch someone exchange sloppy kisses with a figment of his imagination? At least we were able to cheer Nadine on when she threw toys at The Tumor. Trish Fodor: Sonny and Kate. Did I mention that these two had no spark? Kate Brown: Ryan and Greenlee. Carolyn Aspenson:
Dianna: OLTL - Jarred and Natalie. Are they really the worst of the worst...I'm not sure but they are by far the most boring whose relationship from the beginning was kind of icky. Natalie did after all fall in love with her supposed Uncle. GH - Sonny and Kate. This was a match made in Bensonhurst that was better left for dead. The two had no common ground, no common wants or needs and Kate wanted a changed Sonny that she was never going to get. Their relationship was tedious and a struggle for me to watch. Katrina: Natalie and Jared, although Nikolas and Tumor Emily are a really close second. Most Miserably Failed Plotline "Twist" Daytime Diva: Diego as the text message Killer. Lame. As it turned out it could have been Coop or Logan and been SO MUCH BETTER since both were savagely wasted on GH by the end of the year. It was crap. Media Ho: AMC - How about Josh embezzling from vindictive bro-in-law Zach? Right up there with Jesse’s second family. GH - Ghost Emily, for reasons that will become even clearer real soon. The Gourmez: So, so many to chose from. I'm going to generalize and say that it was any time Jerry Jacks was revealed to be behind a shooting, drug scheme, kidnapping, stabbing, or shoe-throwing at the president. Trish Fodor: The Russian Mob hits Port Charles. Spare me, please! I’d rather watch old reruns of Boris and Natasha. Bring back Helena Cassadine! Kate Brown: Surprise! Jesse has another family! Carolyn Aspenson: Am I missing something? I really just can’t think of any real ‘twists’ this year. Wow, I have to do memory exercises. Katrina: Hands down, it was Clint using Langston to blackmail Dorian. That was just bizarrely wrong. Bringing an (no pun intended) A List actor like A Martinez on board to play some 5 minute bumbling oaf was a huge mistake that I trust will be rectified with his upcoming return. The other worst twist also involves Clint, which was making Dorian out to be the bad guy when HE cheated on her with NORA first. Those two are dead to me now. Dead to me, I tell you. Worst Wardrobe Daytime Diva: Kate/GH. Kate is suppose to be a fashion mogul and her JC Penney collection clothes are laughable as haute couture. Media Ho: AMC - Doesn’t Opal own this category? OK, maybe she’s passing the torch to KWAK, but she hasn’t let it go completely. GH -Jason owns a few t-shirts, jeans, a few leather jackets, and one or two suits. Even though his wardrobe is tiny, he still manages to look pretty good, so I guess I’ll pass this award over to Lucky, who could use some help in this department. He is capable of looking SO much better. The Gourmez: Not only was Claudia's obsession with red dropped faster than Sonny on a mattress but everything she wears is either black and boring or black and slutty. Trish Fodor: Kate Howard. In going for high fashion, I saw more misses than hits on this character, Kate Brown: AMC. They have no idea how to dress a curvaceous woman. Evidence: they recently put the beautiful Eden Riegel in a brocade dress that had her looking like an upholstered wingback chair. Carolyn Aspenson:
Dianna: GH - Kate Howard. For a woman who is supposed to be the biggest thing in Couture, her wardrobe always leaves me slightly confused. OLTL - Roxy Balsom. Although her outfits always fit her personality this woman wears some really BAD clothes. Katrina: Laura Wright and those "what in the hell is THAT" outfits they dress her in...a true Daytime tragedy. Worst Recast Daytime Diva: Sebastian Roche as Jerry Jacks. He was fine as terrorist James Craig but HE WAS NOT JERRY JACKS. Media Ho: AMC - No more picking on Sabine Singh (ex, false, Greenlee). I’ll go with Ricky Paull Goldin as the not-missed (at least not by me) Jake Martin. Did we really need this guy back on the canvas? A resounding NO from the Media Ho! And what’s with the two “l”s in “Paull?” That bothered me when he was on other soaps. No need to bring him or Jake to Pine Valley. GH - It certainly wasn’t Kiko (ex-Stanford) Ellsworth, and I’m at a loss to think of another recast of any significance. If there was one, I must have missed it. Didn’t get the memo. The Gourmez: Yeniffer Ehrens as Marianna Erosa. Not that the first actress, America Olivio, was making any waves but Ms. Ehrens' version of this insipid character had no layers nor chemistry with Rick Hearst. Last I checked, Mr. Hearst could have chemistry with a piece of wood. Trish Fodor: Jerry Jacks. I happen to love Sebastian Roche. I just didn’t like him as the second rendition of Jerry Jacks. I wish they’d given him his own unique character to play. Kate Brown: It was close, but Ricky Paull Goldin beat out Amanda Baker by a smug smirk (AMC). Carolyn Aspenson: From this
back to this
I’m still not happy about it or the way it was handled. Katrina: Ricky Paull Goldin, only because he continued the tradition so well of Jake being a totally mindless dick. (Yes, I can say it in both places.) Biggest Waste of a Vet Return Daytime Diva: Genie Francis as Laura Spencer on GH comes immediately to mind but since I prefer her staring at the wall over half the useless wastes of space they write stories for these days I'll go with Andrea Evans as Tina on OLTL. What a wasted effort. Tina returning without Viki being on air was idiotic. Why did they bother? She was shackled to the too long incarceration of Natalie and then Nat/Jared, she could have filmed 3/4 of her scenes in a long weekend on the sound stage because they were all in Landfair and made poor use of other sets, characters and storylines. It was one of those awful "isolated vignettes" I bitch about SO MUCH. When I want characters to come back I want to see growth in them. I want to see they have learned from their mistakes and changed just enough not to be a cartoon caricature of the character. That's NOT what Tina's return was. She was stagnate in her quirks and although the things we loved about Tina were evident they were also the only thing brought to the table unmarred by growth or maturity or DEPTH. Media Ho: AMC - That would be Rebecca (the real Greenlee) Budig. Not only did she come back while the cast and crew were all upset over Sabine Singh’s callous treatment at the hands of TPTB, but any interesting writing for Greenlee disappeared within a few weeks. This is a character I grew to love, after her beginnings as a slightly slutty, definitely spoiled little rich girl. Budig is a good actress. She should be able to sue for defamation of character. GH - Another no-brainer: Genie “Laura” Francis. They did a bit more with her this time around, but it was far too brief for my taste. They can do better – and should. The Gourmez: Genie Francis, whose Laura Spencer spent weeks alone with Lulu and then a few short days kidnapped by Scotty, throwing eye daggers at Luke in an abandoned cottage, and receiving her children's significant others like a visiting dignitary. Trying to cram a years' worth of story into a couple days did not work well. Trish Fodor: Genie Frances. GH should be ashamed for trotting one of its best vets out for sweeps and then whisking her off again. I would have loved to see Laura move on without Luke IN Port Charles. I would even have entertained a reunion with Scotty or a new romantic interest. Sadly, that was not to be. It’s just one of many bones I have to pick with GH. Kate Brown: Rebecca Budig. I could go on and on about this but why put out more effort than ABC did in making her return worthwhile? Carolyn Aspenson:
Katrina: Bringing James DePaiva back as Max and doing almost nothing with him. (Not to be confused with...) Most Wasted Character/Actor Daytime Diva: Leslie Charleson as Monica Quartermaine; Ron Hale as MIke Corbin, John Ingle as Edward, Jackie Zeman as Bobbie, Denise Alexander as Lesley, Blake Gibbons as Coleman and a surprise newcomer to my list is Graham Shiels as Cody for GH. Bring them on and write for them and watch this dead old cow come back to life. OLTL: Roxy! When you have great talent like Ilene who could actually bring the quirky character to life instead of it becoming a running joke you have to be stoned or STUPID to continue to relegate them to the side lines. Opal on AMC, we saw it this year as they trotted her out to make some plot points but she really is a universal character who can be used everywhere on canvas with her history and ties. She can be campy and colorful but can also pull off much more. The show needs a family to rally around again and they have them in the remaining Martins; in Opal. They make okay use of the Chandlers but it could be better, the glaring waste here has got to be Opal. Media Ho: AMC - I think Tad Martin gets this award, though Zach Slater isn’t far behind. Wherefore art thou, Tad the Cad? Now that you’ve given up the P.I. biz for child rearing, you’re a bit…dull. Michael Knight, his portrayer, is capable of much more, and there have been hints that head writer Charles Pratt will reward him in 2009 with a meaty story. Let’s hope Chuck keeps this New Year’s resolution. GH - Another no-brainer: Alexis Davis. Rumors have been rampant that she has pissed off TPTB and rewarded with little screen time. Nancy Lee Grahn might have been cool with that prior to the Presidential election, as she was working tirelessly for the man who will be our next Commander-in-Chief, but now we need to see her on our screens. No one with such talent should be treated this way. The Gourmez: I nominate the entire Quartermaine family, all three of them still in Port Charles. They really should have been trying to sue for control of Michael's care, finding out about Jake, and teaming up with the police to kick the mob out of town. There's so much for the Quartermaines to do and so much humor and drama the show would gain from using them more! Trish Fodor: Rick Hearst and Stephen Macht. Again, GH had a gem of a story going here and, as usual, they chose to return the focus to the same four characters: Sonny, Jason, Carly and Sam. I fall asleep watching these four go back and forth about the same things over and over again. Kate Brown: Richie Novak/Billy Miller. In my perfect world, he and Annie would be living in Wildwind, manipulating PV residents for years and years. Worst stunt casting: Ricky Paull Goldin and Beth Ehlers. It is a fallacy that thousands or even hundreds of fans will follow actors from one show to another. AMC’s ratings prove that. ABC should have learned this lesson when GH heavily promoted Denise Alexander’s move from AW to GH. She was a valuable addition to the cast but her presence had little or no effect on the ratings. Carolyn Aspenson:
Katrina: Zach Slater. He's a Mr. Mom and spends all this time cleaning up after Kendall. He deserves much better. Character Whose Death Would Most Greatly Benefit a Show Daytime Diva: After the death of Asa spawned so much great drama, it is easy to see that with good writing losing a core character can go a long way toward reenergizing a soap. AMC has done away with anyone who has that kind of reach except Adam or Erica and they still have too much mileage alive to sacrifice, and OLTL just pulled it off so I say Sonny on GH. Imagine if you will a show where Princess Mermaid Carly didn't save the gummi mobster? It would open up so many opportunities for drama that it would be like watching a new show. Oh yeah, it would be a new show, actually since its been Sonny centric since 2002! Media Ho: AMC - I envision Ryan on his motorcycle, Annie hugging him tight, as he takes his final cliff jump. But that’s just me. GH - If I said Sonny, I’d get more hate mail than I can handle, but it would make for good soap, no? Okay, okay, how about Robin? That would set Patrick up as a single dad and cause massive mourning in the Chuckles. It could also serve to remind the audience that AIDS is a horrible, evil disease. Plus, I’ve made it quite clear that I can’t stand the character. The Gourmez: As much as I was his groupie in the mid-90s, Sonny Corinthos needs to die. His loved ones should stop having to pay the price for his own selfishness and a whole town awaits the moment that they can be liberated from the chains of his organization and ambition. Trish Fodor: I would say Sonny Corinthos but why waste a vote? I think I’d have to vote for Kendall Hart Slater. I’ve rather enjoyed her time in a coma because it’s opened doors for other stories. I’m being honest in saying that I have not missed her on the canvas at all. Besides, her death would be high drama, indeed. Kate Brown: Sonny Corinthos (GH) Carolyn Aspenson: Really? How much space do I have? Let’s see, AMC first...
For OLTL...
And for GH...
Dianna: Usually I have a laundry list of characters whose demise would bring me great pleasure, but today I am hard pressed to think of who. Over on GH they can take Trevor. The man does nothing for me and just gives me the willies whenever he is on screen. On OLTL I wouldn't lose any sleep over the demise of Jared, but if they are going to do that, I wish they would give me Nash back.
Katrina: AMC - Annie Lavery, OLTL -
Adrianna Cramer -- just so I can be sure she'll never come back again,
GH - Sonny Corinthos. Lamest Villain Daytime Diva: The Russian Mob is a joke and I'm afraid the joke is on us, the viewer. What's next? The Colombian mob? The Irish Mafia? Gumby and Pokey, mob boss and hit man? I'm not laughing. Media Ho: AMC - I would have liked Tad’s uncle Rob a lot better had they developed his story more and kept him around. I mean, come on! This dude kept Jesse away from Angie for 20 years and practically FORCED him to have another family. There were layers there that needed to be pulled back and exposed. Plus, David Rasche was great, as Rob/Papel, so why not keep him around and build a more intricate story around him? It would have been a great way for Michael “Tad” Knight to use those acting chops we all know he has. GH - Gotta be Karpov, the Russian with the bad rug. Or maybe not-so-dead Diego. The Gourmez: Andre Karpov. I'm still not sure why he came to Port Charles but I'm quite certain that I don't care. Trish Fodor: Jerry Jacks. Come, on! Jerry was always mischievous but never the syringe totin’ version that GH recently tortured viewers with. Kate Brown: Carlo Hesser. Carolyn Aspenson:
Dianna: GH - Anthony Zacchara. The man is more insane than villainous and he borders on more amusing than fearful. When Anthony is being a villain it makes me laugh. Any man whose favorite terms of endearment for his daughter sre "slut" and "bitch" doesn't strike much fear in me, just appears pathetic. Katrina: Basically, we have no villains any more. There are no Helena Cassadines or Faith Roscoes or Cesar Faisons or Ivan Kiplings or Marco Danes or Carlo Hessers or Ray Gardners. These are all just fluffy bunny wannabe villains. I about snorted my Diet Dr. Pepper when I read someone describing Sonya as "The next Faith Roscoe." Definitely the lamest was Karpov, who drew about 7,000 lines in the sand and watched Sonny step over every one. ABC Soap Failure of the Year Daytime Diva: GH for continuous lack of originality, refusal to look to the history except for sweeps, sub-standard writing that is too dependant on stunts, special effects and disasters, for trying to kill the vets, "replacing" them with their murderers and expecting us to accept it, for attempting to force romances between subjects that are arguably even of the same species (Alexis and Craig), for blatant refusal to use the hospital as anything but a mob related necessity, for teasing and promising substantial stories for the vets then having 96% of it take place OFF SCREEN, for NEVER allowing a romance to progress past the "longing" stage unless it ends with comedy or bullets, for force feeding us a steady diet of musical beds; changed partners and most of all... most glaring failure to me... the continued regurgitation of the same story, the same lines, the same sets, the same characters doing and saying the same shit/different day. Media Ho: Okay, since I’ve established I only watch two of the three, and I chose AMC as best soap, I guess that makes GH the failure of the year. Lots of dropped balls (Laura, the hunt for Michael’s shooter, unresolved things about Kate’s shooter, Sonny’s unknown and still uncast son, and more) and wasted opportunities (see prior list and add the excellent but underused veterans in the cast to it). Great potential, often poor execution. They can and must do better in 2009. One only has to look at the bloodbath at Days of our Lives to realize that the business of soaps is very serious, and in very serious trouble. Advertisers are becoming few and far between, and necessary economies are being ordered across the board in daytime. My suggestion? Work with what you’ve got (a mostly excellent cast) and do more with less. That’s the only solution these days, in virtually every business. Soaps are no different. Trish Fodor: General Hospital. It makes me sad to say that because I’ve loved the show for so many years. Twice this year I have literally fallen asleep watching (You thought I was kidding, didn’t you?) The only way that I can successfully tolerate the show on most days is to let my imagination fill in the blanks. The most interesting stories are not even seen on screen. Their anti-hero, Sonny, has become anti climactic and Jason Morgan is about as convincing as a mob boss as Max was when his Daddy blew into town. And who held up Alexis and robbed her of her brain? I miss the days when she was a razor sharp defense attorney. These days all she does is run around threatening to prosecute people “to the fullest extent of the law.” Ahem, why didn’t she start with Jerry Jacks? (You know, the guy who drugged her nephew and held her daughter hostage? Got a nasty habit of starting every sentence with “Dahling”.) Guess it’s because they’d frown upon booty calls with the DA in prison. I can give the show credit for spectacle. No one literally blows up things on daytime quite like GH and they do hold grand weddings and special affairs. I only wish that they’d focus more on telling good stories utilizing more of the spectacular talent they have at their disposal. A stronger investment in that would lead to a stronger investment from viewers. Come on, GH! I dare ya! Kate Brown: It breaks my heart but it is AMC. Changing headwriters does not help if their stories do not change a show’s reliance on plot driven vs. character driven stories. Each soap should have an internal logic but AMC has not made sense for awhile. Greenlee’s recent crimes were white-washed making everyone in her world look like idiots. Annie, one of the few mature PV residents, went nuts solely to make viewers root for Ryan and Greenlee. I suspect Jesse went from returning hero to lying SOB because the writers could not think of anything else t o do with him. The characters lack nuance. Few are colored in shades of grey. AMC is no longer a show about characters we love. Instead it is a show comprised of plots we must endure so we can see the characters/actors we love. AMC needs to take a lesson from OLTL; look to what made your show unique in the first place, pay attention to characters’ histories, and most importantly, do not underestimate your viewers’ intelligence. Carolyn Aspenson:
Dianna: I can't answer this one because I feel that even with the worst both GH and OLTL manage to have a successful year. It may not have always been pretty or riveting but it was consistent. Katrina: As much as I hate to say it and for all of the positives they did have, AMC was the one that made me cringe the least if I missed it in a day. |
