CONGRATULATIONS TO EILEEN DAVIDSON, ERIC MARTSOLF & CHANDLER MASSEY ON THEIR DAYTIME EMMY WINS!

Lead Actress winner Eileen Davidson (Kristen)

Acceptance Speech
"I snagged it! First of all, I have to thank Heather [Tom] for sharing this year. I have so much affection and gratitude towards everybody at Days of Our Lives. Ken Corday and Greg, Lisa [de Cazotte] and Albert [Alarr], all the directors and the writers, of course, Gary Tomlin, Chris Whitesell. Thank you for letting me bring it, and then bring it again. To the crew, who has our hearts. My cast, Dee [Hall] and Drake [Hogestyn], [Eric] Martsolf, you're so much fun. I love you so much. For my sons, Duke, Vinny and Jesse, I adore you. And my husband, Vincent Van Patten, thank you for supporting me my love, in whatever I want to do and whatever I don't want to do and whatever I'm not sure I'm going to do. And thank you for being my partner in creating a life I've always dreamed about. Thank you."


Supporting Actor winner Eric Martsolf (Brady)

Acceptance Speech
"My wife said, write a speech, write a speech. I'm like, baby I don't need to write a speech. She's like, write a speech. I don't need to...It's got to be hard being right all the time, baby, you are right all the time. Days of Our Lives...it's been tremendously good to me. This past year, it's been like Christmas for me. I was given this beautiful, tragic storyline to portray...My co-star at the time was some girl named Eileen, you might know her, Davidson...She's really tall. She's very pretty and she's a veteran that doesn't act like a veteran. I love you for that, where are you? She brought out the best in me, thank you, you really did. You really helped me step my game up and I'm holding this trophy and I want to attribute some of that to you. I really do. That table right there, you stud muffins you...Ken Corday, Bruce [Evans], Joseph [Mascolo]...you're legends. You've created a legendary show and my affiliation with it. I'm very humbled by it every day, I don't take it for granted at all. Thank you for taking a boy from Passions and bringing him on to your show. That was brave and I appreciate it. Thank you to my agent, Ellis Talent Group, Marshak & Zachary for your guidance, you folks are beautiful. My Mom and my Dad, they had the guts, and I understand this as a father now, it's now easy to tell your kid to go out and pursue your dream. It would have been much easier for me to be a lawyer, but, screw that! I'm having a pretty good time. And lastly, my little circle at home: Chase and Mason, I hope you are watching me on you're Ipads, but I know you're not. I know you're playing Minecraft and that's cool, but we're going to watch this when I come home, because this is important. And there's a little vision of white sitting right there, that's my rock, that's my girl, thank you. I love you more than I can say. You've been with me from the beginning and you taught me that the grass is not greenest over there. It's greenest where you water it and I'm going to water it for you as long as I can. I love you. Soap community, thank you, the resurgence of soap operas. Here's to it. Thank you."



Younger Actor winner Chandler Massey (Will)


Acceptance Speech
"Wow, you see my reel? That was awesome. First of all I want to thank everyone at Days and NBC for this amazing, amazing ride. Four years, it was such an incredible experience. I'm so grateful for the opportunity. Also, I'd like to thank my Mom and my Dad, and my Mimi and Poppa, and Brian. My awesome manager, Scottie Beets...When I moved out here to go to college, I never thought...a soap opera was the last thing on my mind, but because of everyone on the show, the cast and the crew, I have absolutely no regrets at all. I love you guys so much. Thank you very much."


"DAYS OF OUR LIVES" RENEWED FOR TWO YEARS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2016...SHOW WILL CELEBRATE ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY ON THE AIR IN NOVEMBER 2015!

NBC RENEWS ACCLAIMED DAYTIME DRAMA "DAYS OF OUR LIVES" THROUGH 2015-16 SEASON
Days of our Lives Will Celebrate its 50th Anniversary in November 2015
 
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif.  Jan. 22, 2014  NBC has extended its long-running daytime drama "Days of our Lives" for an additional two years, taking the show through September 2016.  "Days" will celebrate its 50th year on television in November 2015, continuing its tradition of passion, intrigue and adventure and cementing its place in television history. The extension was announced today by Jennifer Salke, President, NBC Entertainment.

"Days of our Lives" continues to be a fan favorite for the daytime audience and we are thrilled to keep it going through its 50th season", said Salke. "Days" has shown year-to-year increases in key female demographics and remains both relevant and fresh creatively due to the hard work of the producers, writers, cast and crew who have worked tirelessly to make "Days" the ratings success it is today.

"Having won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Daytime Drama, "Days of our Lives" continues to deliver on its legacy of quality storytelling," said Steve Kent, Senior EVP, Programming, Sony Pictures Television. "We appreciate NBC's continued support and are excited to celebrate the show's 50th anniversary with our generations of dedicated fans."

"We are thrilled to continue being a part of the NBC family and to have the support of our incredible network and studio executives who work tirelessly to allow us to continue telling our stories and share the "Days" legacy with our devoted family of fans," said Ken Corday, executive producer "Days of our Lives."

"Days of our Lives" currently is delivering its best season in women 18-49 viewers in three years and biggest season in total viewers in four years. Executive producer Ken Corday follows in the tradition of his parents, Betty and Ted Corday, who co-created "Days of our Lives" and helmed the series for many years. "Days" (Monday-Friday, 1-2 p.m. ET) first premiered as a half-hour drama in 1965 and expanded to an hour 10 years later.

In its 48-plus years, "Days of our Lives" has garnered 232 Daytime Emmy nominations and 36 wins, including a recent Emmy win for Outstanding Daytime Drama.  The show's success derives from its consistent commitment to excellence in writing and storytelling -- supported by a diverse ensemble of performers -- and an uncanny knack for anticipating viewer interests.   "Days" is set in the fictitious Midwestern town of Salem. The core families are the Bradys, the Hortons and the DiMeras. The multi-layered storylines involve elements of romance, adventure, mystery, comedy and drama.

“Days of our Lives" is produced by Corday Productions Inc. in association with Sony Pictures Television.  Corday is executive producer with co-executive producers Greg Meng and Lisa De Cazotte. Gary Tomlin and Christopher Whitesell are the head writers.

ALISON SWEENEY ANNOUNCES SHE IS LEAVING "DAYS" LATER THIS YEAR, FINISHING A 22-YEAR RUN ON THE SHOW



JUSTIN GASTON SET TO DEBUT ON "DAYS" IN FEBRUARY

Justin Gaston joins the cast of "Days of Our Lives" in late-February as Ben, the brother of Jordan. With Gaston's background as a singer and guitar player, this is how the casting notice from June 2013 described the character: "Ben is in his early-to-mid 20s, a midwestern or southern (very slight southern accent) country boy. He is utterly charming in his honest sincere approach to life and love.  Ben can also sing and/or play the guitar, though it is not necessary. The role is a contract role."
 
Gaston started his career as a model and first came into the spotlight in 2008, when he appeared as a contestant on the reality show "Nashville Star." You can watch his performances on that show of "Hey There Delilah" and "Drops of Jupiter" here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzqTWukuxMs and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LS51vdYU08  Also in 2008, Gaston appeared as a guitar player on "Hannah Montana", where he met and briefly dated the star of that show, Miley Cyrus. In 2009, he appeared as a football player on the pilot episode of "Glee." In 2010, he appeared on the Hulu web-series "If I Can Dream", which focused on round-the-clock coverage of the daily lives of Gaston and other aspiring stars. He also was the opening act for "American Idol" winner Kris Allen. More recently, he has appeared in the film "Game Change" and made appearances on the TV series "Single Ladies" and "The Client List." On September 22, 2012, Gaston married "The Young and the Restless" actress Melissa Ordway. Justin Michael Gaston, 25, was born on August 12, 1988 in Pineville, Louisiana.


EIGHT NATIONAL PREEMPTIONS SCHEDULED FOR 2014

Here's a list of the 8 national preemptions for "Days of Our Lives" in 2014.

Wed. 1/1/14 NHL WINTER CLASSIC
Thu. 2/20/14 WINTER OLYMPICS: WOMEN'S HOCKEY GOLD MEDAL MATCH
Mon. 5/26/14 FRENCH OPEN TENNIS
Thu. 6/5/14 FRENCH OPEN TENNIS SEMIFINALS
Fri. 6/6/14 FRENCH OPEN TENNIS SEMIFINALS
Mon. 9/1/14 PGA GOLF: DEUTSCHE BANK CHAMPIONSHIP...
Thu. 11/27/14 NATIONAL DOG SHOW
Fri. 11/28/14 NHL HOCKEY


BRYAN BACK FOR A LONGER STAY

Good news, Bryan Dattilo fans! Expect LOTS more of Lucas when the new year begins!! In the past 7 months, Dattilo has appeared in just 15 episodes of "Days", but word is fans will be seeing lots more of Lucas when the winter months arrive.
Dattilo needs 40 more appearances to become just the 16th actor in "Days" history to appear in 2,000 episodes. 


 
AFTER 13-YEAR ABSENCE, JERRY PENACOLI TO REPRISE HIS ROLE AS MILES MALLOY

Jerry Penacoli, longtime correspondent on "Extra", reprises his role of Miles Malloy on "Days of Our Lives" beginning September 27. Penacoli, who played himself on "Days" in 2011, this time returns to his original role of Miles Malloy, who he played for 9 episodes in 2000.
Back in 2000, Miles hired Marlena as a radio talk show therapist. With Penacoli tweeting earlier this month that he just taped more "Days" episodes, look for Miles to be sticking around into 2014.

GUY WILSON IS THE NEW WILL HORTON

Guy Wilson has been cast as the new Will Horton. Look for him to debut right around the first week of January, 2014. Jen Lilley (Theresa) spilled the beans on his casting earlier today. Wilson, who turns 28 in November, was born on November 21, 1985 in San Francisco, California and was raised in Sebastopol, California. Although he began his acting career in theater, Wilson made the transition to the film industry at the age of 15. Wilson has made numerous guest stints on such shows as "Cold Case", "Castle", "NCIS", "Bones", "Major Crimes", "Hawaii Five-0" and "Breaking Bad." His daytime debut came in 2006, when he appeared as a teenage version of Luke Spencer (Anthony Geary).

In an interview from 2011 at http://suite101.com/a/getting-to-know-actor-guy-wilson-a337514, Wilson stated how he got into acting:  "My mother is a musical composer and a musician, and when I was nine years old she was the musical director of a local performance of A Christmas Carol in Santa Rosa, California, which is where I grew up, about 50 miles north of San Francisco in a small town called Sebastopol. My mom asked me if I wanted to be in it, and I said sure, and so they gave me the part of Tiny Tim, which was a perfect part for me given my stature at the time. I did that, and I loved it. I sort of kept doing theater as a child, and then when I was 15, I realized and decided that I wanted to be a movie star. I wanted to be on film and television.I got an agent in San Francisco with an agency called Look Talent, and was with them for a couple of years while I was still in high school in northern California. Shortly thereafter, I got a manager in Los Angeles who worked with young talent. She was able to start getting me some auditions down here.And I didn't really have a lot of success early on, but it gave me some experience in the Los Angeles industry, and not just in San Francisco, such that by the time I graduated high school in 2004, I knew that I'd be able to come down here and have some idea of what I needed to do to have success in the film and television industry here in L.A...I never really did any theater in my high school. I studied at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco when I was 17, but I just focused more on auditioning for projects that were casting in San Francisco, like Monk, for example. A lot of Volkswagen commercials at the time were being cast in San Francisco. So there was this small niche there."

Wilson discussed his thoughts on playing a gay teen on "NCIS" in 2011 and had this to say about the episode: "Honestly, I think the first thing that comes to mind is confidence as an actor. That role on NCIS for so many reasons was the most important work I've done to date. And not just because of the size of the role or the amount of time I had on screen. But just because of the important nature of the debate. When you can do what you love in a forum that also addresses social issues, that is truly what it's all about. To have an opportunity to play I believe one of the first openly gay characters on the show, and to do it with such a strong surrounding cast, it was truly a blessing. It's not that I was nervous going into it, but I also knew that I had made it. When I was driving to set each morning, I was able to step back and recognize that I was no longer on the outside looking in. I belong here. I have what it takes to tell this kind of a story. And I can just let go and have fun doing it and just trust my instincts.The fact that it turned out so wonderful, the kind of positive reaction the episode has gotten—and I've gotten a lot of very positive feedback from people at CBS and viewers—sort of validates the belief I've had in myself, and that every actor tries to cultivate. That we as individuals belong in this town and that pursuing your dream as an actor is worthwhile." For more of the interview, please visit: http://suite101.com/a/actor-guy-wilson-recalls-his-guest-roles-on-castle-and-ncis-a337521

CHARLES SHAUGHNESSY JOINS PATSY PEASE IN NOVEMBER RETURN!

Exciting news for "Days" fans: Charles Shaughnessy is returning to "Days of Our Lives" as Shane Donovan! Shaughnessy, who debuted as the ISA agent in 1984, returns to "Days" along with long-time leading lady Patsy Pease (Kimberly) for a limited run during November sweeps. Shane and Kimberly were one of the many supercouples "Days" made famous in the 1980s. Shane and Kimberly's daughter, Theresa, recently returned to Salem after not being seen since 1997. This will be the first time Shane or Kimberly ever share a scene with one of their children as an adult (their other son, Andrew, also was last seen as a child in 1997). Shortly after leaving "Days", Shaughnessy went on to star on the hit sitcom "The Nanny", where he played Maxwell Sheffield, the love of series star Fran Drescher's character. This will be Shaughnessy's fourth visit since he left "Days" in 1992. His previous returns were in 2002, 2010 and 2012.

WINTER OLYMPICS SCHEDULE RELEASED..."DAYS" HAS JUST ONE PREEMPTION
 
The Winter Olympics schedule has just been released. "Days of Our Lives" will be preempted just once, on Thursday, February 20, 2014. The Winter Olympics will be airing from 3PM-5PM ET/PT and 2PM-4PM CT/MT for the rest of the two weeks, so there may be some time slot shifting if "Days" airs during those time frames in your local market. Unlike last year's 2-week hiatus for the Summer Olympics, this time around "Days" will only be off for one day. 

CHANDLER MASSEY WRAPPED UP TAPING AUGUST 23...HIS LAST EPISODES AS WILL ARE GOING TO AIR IN LATE DECEMBER/EARLY JANUARY...IMMEDIATE RECAST IS PLANNED

In surprising news, Chandler Massey (Will) wrapped up taping "Days" today. His last episodes will air in either late December or early January. "Days" agreed to let him out of his contract 4 months early so that he could focus on college. All t...he best to Chandler on his future endea...vors. The role of Will will be recast immediately and the new actor will make his debut in early January 2014. Massey tweeted this earlier today: "As I move forward from Days, I will never forget the laughs we shared, the tears we shed, & the love we spread...Thank you, thank you, and thank you. It has been such an amazing journey, and I am so grateful to have shared these four years with you all." "Days" released this statement: "While Days of Our Lives is disappointed to lose such a talent, the show understands and supports him in his future endeavors. Due to current storyline and the timely discovery of new talent that the show feels is the right recast for Will Horton, a mutual decision has been made for the changes to taken place immediately. Chandler will always be a part of the Days family and we wish him nothing but continued success."

PATSY PEASE CONFIRMS RETURN IN NOVEMBER

Patsy Pease (Kimberly Brady) has confirmed her return to "Days of Our Lives." She will be taping 3 days next week, so look for her return to Salem in mid-late November! Kimberly is the mother of Theresa,
so she will be having some scenes with Jen
Lilley, her first interaction with an adult Theresa on-screen. No word yet if it's just three days of taping, or if she will remain with the show on a recurring basis.




Richard Bloore

"DAYS" WELCOMES HOME LONG-TIME COSTUME DESIGNER & HIRES LAUREN KOSLOW'S HUSBAND TOO!
 
Costume designer Richard Bloore has returned to his post at "Days" after a five-year absence. He replaces Jayne Marie Kehoe, who had been the costumer designer for "Days" since August 2008. Bloore started his career working for a rock-and-roll designer in the late 1970s. He started his soap career as the costume designer for "Santa Barbara" from 1984-1990. Bloore then joined "Days" as its costume designer in April 1990 and stayed with the show until August 2008. He was Daytime-Emmy nominated for his work at "Days" in 1997, 1999 and 2006. In an interview Bloore did in 2011, he stated that "I just hope I will get another chance at being a part of that family feeling (at work) again."  Well, that chance has now come. Welcome back, Richard, to the "Days" family! Bloore reported back to work earlier this month, so look for his first costume designs on screen beginning around October 1...In other news, Nick Schillace, the husband of Lauren Koslow (Kate) took over as head of the makeup and hair departments earlier this month. His work also will debut on-screen around October 1.
 


HELP JIM REYNOLDS' THEATRE WITH A DONATION TO KICKSTARTER

Jim Reynolds (Abe) runs the Fremont Centre Theatre and is asking for donations on Kickstarter. Here's all the info:

Help the Fremont Centre Theatre get to the 2013 National Black Theatre Festival!
Our critically acclaimed production of Holding On~ Letting Go has been chosen to be a Main Stage show at the prestigious National Black Theatre Festival, and we need your help to get there!

That's why we have launched a fundraising campaign at Kickstarter asking for your support.
Your donations through Kickstarter will enable us to transport actors, crew, props and wardrobe, build sets, and rent technical equipment. Donations start at $1.00. Any amount that you care to donate will be greatly appreciated!
Different donation levels come with different rewards, including tickets to our Bon Voyage show of Holding On~Letting Go at the Fremont Centre Theatre in July, signed scripts and posters by the cast and crew, free tickets to the FCT through 2014...
and of course, all donors will have their name listed as an "Angel" on our website!

We are excited for the opportunity to bring the excellence of the Fremont Centre stage to a larger audience. Our campaign with Kickstarter is thoughtful, energetic, very necessary and cannot succeed without you!

-Sincerely, Lissa & James Reynolds


NICK SCHILLACE NAMED HEAD OF MAKEUP & HAIR DEPARTMENTS

Lauren Koslow's (Kate) husband, Nick Schillace, has been named the overall head of the makeup and hair departments for "Days of Our Lives."

Schillace posted the news on his Facebook page:

"O.K.... So here's the news you've been waiting for. It has been in the works for over a year, but it has finally a reality. I have been tapped by the great leadership at Days of Our Lives to help guide the look of the show into the 21st century. That's right... you heard me... I have been given the opportunity to oversee the makeup and hair department at Days. I am honored and excited to work... alongside the wonderful cast and crew of Days, and to try to make a difference in the look of the show. I want to share the experience on a day to day basis with all of you, and the millions of Days fans out there, so I will be open to suggestions as to the best ways to achieve that. Maybe we can go "Into the Makeup Dept.". Any way, I wanted to share that with all of you. I will be keeping you posted, but until then, "keep your powder dry".

 
"DAYS" BRINGS BACK ICONIC SET THIS SUMMER!

The Horton Kitchen set was seen for the first time on November 12, 1965, in just the 5th episode of "Days." It continued to be seen throughout the decades, and began to be used less and less in the 2000's, eventually being phased out altogether. The kitchen was seen one last time, when Salemites returned to say goodbye to Alice Horton, for 6 episodes which aired from June 17-June 28, 2010. Three years have since passed, and now "Days" is bringing back this iconic set, which joins the Horton Living Room set as two of the longest-running sets in television history!

HORTON KITCHEN, 1965:
The Horton Kitchen is seen in this clip from the first "Days" Christmas episode from December 27, 1965:
HORTON KITCHEN, 2010:
45 years later, Bill Hayes (Doug) and James Reynolds (Abe) pose on the iconic set the last time it was seen, in June 2010:


 

FIRST EPISODE TAPED IN 2013 AIRS...BURBANK LAYOFFS TAKE PLACE

With April 18 being the first episode taped in 2013, the credits have noted the changes due to the layoffs in Burbank that happened at the end of 2012. Four main areas were affected. "Days" now has new technical directors, boom operators and senior video. Technical directors/cameramen Mike Caruso and J.C. O'Neill, who both joined the ...
show in the early 1980's have left "Days" after over 30 years of service. Caruso and O'Neill both were six-time Daytime Emmy nominees during their time at "Days." Boom operators Jackie Frazier (four-time Emmy nominee), who joined the show in 1993, and Harry Young (two-time Emmy nominee), who joined the show in 2000 have also been replaced. Frazier, an aspiring writer, also got the chance to write a few episodes for "Days" from 2001-2003. The Senior Video, Alexis Dellar Hanson (three-time Emmy nominee), who first worked at "Days" in 2000, has also been replaced. Also, the trio of Digital Systems Maintenance crew, Michael Vick, Chris Robertson and Byron Stultz are no longer listed in the credits. Thanks to all of their service at "Days" and the best of luck to all of them in the future.

The new technical director is Chuck Abate (a second new technical director will probably be listed in the credits tomorrow). The new boom operators are Anthony Inglese and Stu Rudolf. The new senior video is Michelle Montgomery. Finally, "Days" has added this new credit at the end of the credits: "Produced at The Burbank Studios, A Worthe Real Estate Group Property."

WRITING STAFF CHANGE

David A. Levinson, who has been a staff writer with "Days" since September 6, 2011 has been replaced by two-time Daytime Emmy winner David Cherrill, who was previously with "Days" from 2008-2011. With how far in advance "Days" tapes, look for the switch to happen on air around June, 2013. David Cherrill (born Christopher David Colson) begins his second stint with "Days" as a staff writer. He started his career in the 1970s as an actor, most notably as Tom Hughes on "As the World Turns." He has been a writer since 1981, working on "As The World Turns" (1981, 1998-1999), "Search For Tomorrow" (1982-1983), "Another World" (1984-1989) and "One Life to Live" (1995-1997, 2001-2004). Cherrill has been nominated for 7 Daytime Emmys (1985, 1989, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2002 and 2012), winning in 1994 and in 2012. He uses his wife's first name, Cherrill, as his last name. They have two daughters, Katherine and Emily. Cherrill was born on December 23, 1941 in Detroit, Michigan. Tenure: December 26, 2008-June 29, 2011; June 2013-Present.

MECARTEA'S FINAL EPISODE AIRS

Mike Mecartea, one of the two regular "Days" cameramen for the past 20 years, retired after 35 years with NBC in October 2012. His final episodes behind the camera aired this week. Mecartea, who joined NBC in 1978, was a substitute cameraman for "Days" in the 1980's and joined "Days" full-time at the end of 1992 when "Santa Barbara" was cancelled. He was nominated for 6 Daytime Emmy Awards during his time at "Days." Thanks, Mike, for 20 great years at "Days!" Here's Mike saying goodbye to his camera for the last time on the "Days" set:
http://www.jason47.com/jason47b/images/mecarteamikeretire.jpg

WILL/GABI BABY BEING CAST THIS WEEK....THIRD GREAT-GREAT-GRANDCHILD OF TOM & ALICE HORTON SET TO MAKE DEBUT IN MAY!

The baby of Will Horton and Gabi Hernandez is being cast the week of January 28 and will tape its first episode on February 5, 2013, with a first airdate in May, 2013. The baby will be just the third great-great-grandchild of Tom & Alice Horton, joining Scotty Banning (born 1977) and Claire Brady (born 2006).

"DAYS OF OUR LIVES" RENEWED THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2014!

     UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – January 09, 2013 – On the heels of celebrating its 12,000th episode, NBC has extended its long-running daytime drama "Days of our Lives" for an additional year, taking the show through September 2014 and past its 48th year anniversary in November 2013. The extension was announced today by Jennifer Salke, President, NBC Entertainment. The 12,000th episode will air this Friday, January 11. “We are thrilled to announce that “Days of our Lives” is not going anywhere. It is NBC's longest-running drama series by far and is one of the most historic brands in television,” said Salke. “We commend Ken Corday and the entire creative team on continuing to keep the stories and characters fresh, exciting and relevant year after year.” “‘Days of our Lives’ has maintained a loyal and dedicated fan base for more than four decades and continues to reach a new generation of viewers,” said Steve Mosko, President, Sony Pictures Television. “We appreciate NBC’s support over the years and, as the show celebrates this significant milestone, we are thrilled that the show will continue to be a part of the NBC family.”
    
Executive producer Ken Corday follows in the tradition of his parents, Betty and Ted Corday, who co-created "Days of our Lives" and helmed the series for many years. “After so many years in the homes and hearts of our loyal fans, I’m both humbled and elated to say it’s 2013 and we’re still going strong,” said Corday. “I am equally proud that the sense of family which my mom and dad established in our show 48 years ago, is still what drives it today. As we celebrate our 12,000th episode with an amazing cast and great support from our network, we look forward to what’s yet to come!” In the 12,000th episode, Sami (played by Alison Sweeney, who coincidentally celebrates her 20-year anniversary on “Days” this week) and Rafe (Galen Gering) start getting close again. Chloe (Nadia Bjorlin) finds an ally in her quest to win Daniel (Shawn Christian) away from Jennifer (Melissa Reeves). Meanwhile, Gabi (Camila Banus) prepares to marry Nick (Blake Berris) while carrying the baby of Will (Daytime Emmy winner Chandler Massey). All three continue to struggle with what role Will should play in the baby’s life. Before the episode’s end, someone throws a huge wrench into the wedding proceedings.
    
"Days of our Lives” (Monday-Friday, 1-2 p.m. ET) first premiered as a half-hour drama in 1965 and expanded to an hour 10 years later. In its 47-plus years, “Days of our Lives” has garnered 215 Daytime Emmy nominations and 32 wins, including a recent Emmy win for Outstanding Writing as well as a GLAAD Award win for Outstanding Daily Drama. The show's success derives from its consistent commitment to excellence in writing and storytelling -- supported by a diverse ensemble of performers -- and an uncanny knack for anticipating viewer interests. "Days” is set in the fictitious midwestern town of Salem. The core families are the Bradys, the Hortons and the DiMeras. The multi-layered storylines involve elements of romance, adventure, mystery, comedy and drama. “Days of our Lives” is produced by Corday Productions Inc. in association with Sony Pictures Television. Ken Corday is executive producer with co-executive producers Greg Meng and Lisa De Cazotte. Gary Tomlin and Christopher Whitesell are the head writers.


FORMER WRITER BARBARA ESENSTEN PASSES AWAY

Barbara Esensten, who was a script editor for "Days of Our Lives" in 2007 has passed away. She died on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at the age of 75.

Barbara Jean Sills was born in Los Angeles, California on March 7, 1937. She started her writing career as a reporter for her college's newspaper, UCLA's Daily Bruin. After college, she married Jack Esensten and had three daughters, Teri, Randi and Deena. After her divorce, Esensten went on to a career in radio news.

In 1987, she began her TV career and a long association with her writing partner, James Harmon Brown, as they were hired to write some scripts for "Dynasty." The writing duo would later write for "Loving" and co-create its spinoff "The City." They also wrote for "Guiding Light", "Port Charles", "One Life to Live", "All My Children" and spent six months at "Days of Our Lives" in 2007. She won a Daytime Emmy as a member of the "Guiding Light" writing team in 1993.

Esensten is survived by her second husband, Michael Chambers; three daughters, Teri, Randi and Deena; and several grandchildren. A funeral will be held on Sunday, November 18, 2012.

"DAYS" TO AIR FIRST-EVER "CLASSIC" EPISODE ON NBC ON FRIDAY 11/23!

Set your DVRs and skip Black Friday! We will be flashing back to June 24, 1997, and an episode in which Susan was revealed to be impersonating Kristen
(think flying false teeth courtesy of Laura Horton!) and John desperately searched to find the real Kristen - and Marlena - in the secret room. Don't miss it!


TWO 1980's "DAYS" ACTRESSES HAVE PASSED AWAY

     Kathryn Virginia Fuller of La Cañada Flintridge, actress and member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAGAFTRA) - and Actors' Equity Association (AEA)-who was affectionately known to her family as "America's Favorite Actress"-passed away peacefully at home on May 24, 2012, due to natural causes. She was 89. Ms. Fuller appeared on "Days of Our Lives" as Mabel Cummings, Lee Dumonde's nurse/assistant, from 1980-1981, and again from 1985-1986 as a different Mabel, Roman and Marlena's housekeeper. 
     Services and interment were conducted May 31, 2012, at Mountain View Chapel in Altadena. Kathryn was born on June 5, 1922, in Delaware, Ohio to Gilbert and Ruth Eagon. She earned a degree in Theatre Arts from Ohio Wesleyan University. There, during the Second World War, she met her future husband, Mark H. Fuller, who was then enrolled in the U.S. Navy V-12 Unit at Ohio Wesleyan. They were married in July, 1945, at Christ Church in New York City. Following the War, Kathryn and Mark resided in California; they lived in Altadena, Arcadia, South Pasadena, and then for 52 years in La Cañada Flintridge.
     Kathryn began a professional acting career with performances at the Pasadena Playhouse, Theatre Americana (Altadena), and Glendale Centre Theatre. Eventually she would make many appearances on television, in films and on stage. She was a gifted actress, director and writer-but Kathryn will also be remembered as a loving wife and mother, with four sons and two daughters. She managed a busy household that often included extended family members. For over 40 years, Kathryn and her family were active members of Holliston United Methodist Church; she taught pre-school at Holliston's Merryland Nursery School. She volunteered in her community, reading books at local schools and directing theater for non-profits-such as Foothill Service Club for The Blind, where she directed a play cast entirely with blind actors.
     In over 50 years of work, Kathryn influenced the careers of fellow actors and touched the hearts of many. In 1962, she was a co-founder of Studio Theatre Playhouse in Los Angeles, which today remains a venue for new theatrical talent. As a playwright, she authored: "Lightning in the South" (from the life of Mary Todd Lincoln) and co-authored "Lutie" (a comedic romp set in New Orleans). Both premiered at Glendale Centre Theatre. Her many performances with The Colony at Studio Theatre Playhouse included: Terrence Shank's adaptation of John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath", Eugene O'Neill's "Long Day's Journey into Night," and the world stage premier of Ray Bradbury's "The Martian Chronicles." When "The Grapes of Wrath" was picked up by the Louisville Regional Equity Theatre, Kathryn was cast in the featured role of "Mama" for an extended run. 
    On television, Kathryn's recurring roles included Mabel Cummings in "Days of Our Lives," Mrs. Shellenback on "Happy Days," and Mrs. McGregor on "Valerie's Family." Numerous other appearances included "Laverne & Shirley," "Little House on the Prairie," "Highway to Heaven," "Remington Steele," and "Newhart". Her favorite motion picture role was that of Faye Kennedy in "Yes, Georgio" co-starring with Luciano Pavarotti. 
    Kathryn is preceded in death by her parents and her sister Sue Jacobs. She is survived by her husband Mark; sister Meredith Rode and brother Richard Eagon; children, Mike (Tina), Elin Alto (John), Scott (Susanne), Tim (Gail), Babette Coverdale (John) and Matt (Shyrlee), eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She is loved and missed by all. (Obituary courtesy of Pasadena Star-News, 6/30/12).

     Sandra Silvana Gallardo, an actress, acting coach and writer whose face and career were known throughout the world, died Monday, January 2, 2012 at Jewish Hospital in Louisville, Missouri. Gallardo, a New York native who had been living in Paris, Kentucky, was 64. In 1988, Ms. Gallardo appeared on "Days of Our Lives" as Rosa Ramirez, the mother of April, Emilio and Julio and wife of Monty Dolan. In the storyline, Rosa ended up comatose after being hit by a car and Monty decided to pull her life support plug. 
     She appeared on many television shows including Babylon 5, Hill Street Blues, Falcon Crest, NYPD Blue, The Golden Girls and Days of Our Lives . Her film credits include Calendar Girl Murders, Silence of the Heart, Copacabana, The Windwalker, Death Wish II, Out of the Dark and Solar Crisis. Ms. Gallardo taught and coached some of Hollywood's biggest stars, including Angelina Jolie, Keanu Reeves, Billy Drago and Peta Wilson.
     She moved to Paris, Kentucky after having directed Fading to Zero, a feature docudrama based on the life and work of the late Brooklyn poet laureate Ken Siegelman. Funeral services will be private. Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home in Paris is handling arrangements. (Obituary courtesy of Lexington-Herald Leader, 1/5/12).

"DAYS" STARS APPEAR ON "JEOPARDY!" ON FRIDAY, JUNE 29

     On Friday, June 29, watch as some of your favorite Salemites deliver clues in a special category on "Jeopardy!" Cast members participating are Joe Mascolo (Stefano), Bryan Dattilo (Lucas), Galen Gering (Rafe), Kristian Alfonso (Hope), James Scott (EJ), Chandler Massey (Will), Christie Clark (Carrie) and James Reynolds (Abe). For more information on the show and where to watch, please visit http://www.jeopardy.com/

DORIS SINGLETON PASSES AWAY

     Actress and comedienne Doris Singleton Isaacs, who recurred on "I Love Lucy" as Lucy's near-sighted neighbor and sometimes nemesis Carolyn Appleby, died Tuesday, June 26, 2012. She was 92. In 1976, she appeared in 4 episodes of "Days of Our Lives" as Kay Stanhope, the wife of James Stanhope and mother of Ginny Stanhope.
     Singleton guested in a large number of both comedies and dramas during her 30-plus career in television. After performing as a featured dancer with the American Ballet Theater in her teens, the Brooklyn-born Dorthea Singleton began in showbiz as a vocalist with Art Jarrett's orchestra in the late 1930s. Her distinctive voice led to a career in radio, where she was an actress on "The Whistler" and other shows during WWII, performing at times with the likes of George Burns & Gracie Allens, Bob Hope and Jack Benny. Singleton met Lucille Ball in the late 1940s during a performance of the radio show "My Favorite Husband"; a few years later, Ball invited Singleton to join the cast of TV's "I Love Lucy" as Carolyn Appleby. Singleton appeared on 10 episodes of the show from 1953 to 1957. By the mid-1950s the actress was busy with TV guest appearances on programs including "Adventures of Superman," "The Loretta Young Show," "The Great Gildersleeve," "The Bob Hope Show" and "Alfred Hitchcock Presents." Singleton also appeared in a few feature films during the 1950s: "Terror at Midnight," "Affair in Reno" and "Voice in the Mirror."
    She was a series regular on the brief 1960 series "Angel," recurred on "My Three Sons" as Margaret Williams and guested on "The Munsters," "The Dick Van Dyke Show" and "Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C." during the decade; she also returned to work with Ball on episodes of "The Lucy Show" and "Here's Lucy" as well as the 1980 telepic "Lucy Moves to NBC," and she made appearances on dramas including "Gunsmoke," "Twilight Zone," "The Fugitive" and "The F.B.I." Her credits during the 1970s included "All in the Family," "Marcus Welby, M.D.," "Phyllis" and the daytime soap "Days of Our Lives." Singleton made one of her last appearances in a 1982 episode of "Dynasty." Singleton also appeared as an interviewee in the "American Masters" documentary "Finding Lucy" in 2000 and in an "E! True Hollywood Story" episode devoted to "I Love Lucy" in 2005.
     Singleton's husband Charles Isaacs, a comedy writer, director and producer to whom she was married for 61 years, died in 2002.

(Obituary courtesy of Variety.com)

LISA CONNOR JOINS WRITING STAFF...BRIEFLY

     Lisa Connor has joined the "Days" writing staff, briefly, as a breakdown writer. Her exit has already been announced by the new writing team, so look for her to be leaving sometime this summer. Connor started her career as the Assistant Publicist for Universal Pictures from 1985-1986. She then began her daytime career as a Production Coordinator for "Guiding Light" in 1987-1990. She then became one of GL's Associate Directors from 1990-1994. GL then gave Connor her first shot at writing in 1994. From there, she was a writer for "One Life to Live" (1995-1996) and "As the World Turns" (1997-1999). From 1999-2002, she was a Supervising Producer for "All My Children." In 2002, she returned to writing and did stints at "All My Children" (2002-2005), "As The World Turns" (2005-2009), "The Young and the Restless" (2009-2010), "All My Children" (2010-2011) and "General Hospital" (2011). Connor has received 9 Daytime Emmy nominations, winning once in 1994 (as part of the directing team for "Guiding Light" in 1994). Lisa Kim Connor, 48, was born December 2, 1963. Tenure: May 22, 2012-Present.

 

GEORGE MURDOCK PASSES AWAY

     Character actor George Murdock, best known as Lt. Scanlon on "Barney Miller," Dr. Salik on "Battlestar Galactica" and "God" in "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier," died April 30 in Los Angeles. He was 81. Murdock portrayed Judge Andrew Walker, who presided over John Black's trial in Aremid, for 14 episodes on "Days of Our Lives" from January-February 1996.
     Murdock racked up more than 200 credits in TV and film over the course of a career that spanned more than five decades. In another connection to "Star Trek," Murdock played Admiral J.P. Hanson in two episodes of "The Next Generation."
     The actor also appeared onstage, originating the role of Judge Julius Hoffman in the Odyssey Theater's 1979 production of "The Chicago Conspiracy Trial" (and reprising the role 25 years later). As one of the original members of the Melrose Theater, Murdock performed in many plays with the troupe, most notably, "Lester Sims Retires Tomorrow," which later moved to Off Broadway.
     The actor began a steady stream of smallscreen roles in the early 1960s with credits in "Twilight Zone," "The Untouchables, "77 Sunset Strip." Later came roles in "Hawaii Five-O," "Mod Squad," "Ironside," "Gunsmoke," "McCloud," "Lou Grant" and "The Rockford Files." He played generals in miniseries "The Winds of War" and "War and Remembrance," and he was a regular on the brief Yakov Smirnoff vehicle "What a Country" in 1986. Later credits included "L.A. Law," "ER," the "X Files" series and movie and "CSI."
     With his characteristic gravitas, Murdock was a natural to play judges, and he did so repeatedly not only onstage but also on television ("Law and Order," "Judging Amy") and in film ("Timescape," "Final Analysis").
     Born in Salina, Kans., Murdock is survived by his wife, Cathy, and a stepdaughter. A remembrance of Murdock will be held Sunday, May 20, at 2 p.m. at the Odyssey Theater, 2055 South Sepulveda Blvd., L.A. (Obituary courtesy of Variety.com)

"DAYS" SUNDAY EVENING MARATHONS RETURN TO SOAPNET

     Beginning this week (Sunday, May 6), "Days of Our Lives" will now air on Sunday evening marathons on SoapNet from 7PM-Midnight. "Days" continues to air each weeknight on SoapNet at 8PM and 11PM. The Sunday evening marathon replaces the 7AM weekday airings. This is the first time SoapNet has aired "Days" in a weekend marathon format since October 2008.

"DAYS" GETS NEW HEAD WRITING TEAM

     SoapOperaNetwork.com has announced that "Days of Our Lives" Head Writers Marlene McPherson and Darrell Ray Thomas Jr. have been relieved of their duties. Former Co-Executive Producer Gary Tomlin and former Co-Head Writer Christopher Whitesell have been named the new Head Writers, effective immediately. Look for their material to debut around July, 2012, just before "Days" goes on hiatus for two weeks of Summer Olympics preemptions.

     Gary Tomlin began his career as an actor on such shows as "Search For Tomorrow", "The Waltons" and "Another World". He switched to writing and was a dialogue writer at "Days" from February-October 1980. He was then the head writer (along with Michelle Poteet Lisanti) at "Days" from October 20, 1980-October 20, 1981. He later wrote for "Texas", "Search For Tomorrow", "Another World" and "Santa Barbara" (where he won an Emmy in 1989). Tomlin switched to producing in 1995 and had stints at "All My Children", "Sunset Beach" and "One Life to Live" (where he won an Emmy in 2002). From 2003-2008, Tomlin began the next phase of his career, as a director on "Passions." From September 2008-September 2011, Tomlin was the Co-Executive Producer of "Days." Gary D. Tomlin, 62, was born March 6, 1950 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
    
Christopher Whitesell has a long history in daytime, beginning in 1984 with "Guiding Light." He was on the writing staffs of "Guiding Light", "As the World Turns", "Another World" and "One Life to Live" before being named to his first co-head writing position, on "General Hospital", in 1997. From 1998-1999, he was the co-head writer on "Sunset Beach." Whitesell then was a breakdown and dialogue writer at "Days" from March 2000-March 2001. He later was co-head writer on "One Life to Live" from 2001-2003 and "As the World Turns" from 2003-2008. From October 2008-June 2011, Whitesell was the co-head writer at "Days." He wrote for "The Young and the Restless" from 2011-2012. Whitesell has been nominated for ten Daytime Emmy Awards, winning four times (in 1986 for "Guiding Light"; 1994 for "One Life to Live"; and 2004 and 2005 for "As the World Turns"). Christopher Joseph Whitesell, 55, was born on January 17, 1957 in Iowa Falls, Iowa.

STEVEN WILLFORD JOINS DIRECTING STAFF


     Steven Williford has joined the directing staff of "Days of Our Lives." His first episode aired on March 2, 2012. Williford began his directing career in regional theater, and has directed over 40 regional plays. His daytime career began at "Guiding Light" from 2001-2002. He later went on to direct "As the World Turns" (2002-2004) and "All My Children" (2004-2011). He has been nominated for 3 Daytime Emmy Awards for his work on "All My Children." Jerry Steven Williford, 55, was born on September 22, 1956 in North Carolina.

EPISODE # 12000 SET TO AIR IN JANUARY, 2013

     Barring any unscheduled news preemptions, "Days of Our Lives" is set to air its milestone 12,000th episode on Friday, January 11, 2013.

ROBERT HEGYES PASSES AWAY

     Robert Hegyes, who played Juan Epstein on the 1970's sitcom "Welcome Back, Kotter," died Thursday, January 26, 2012. Hegyes, who died of an apparent heart attack after suffering chest pains at his Metuchen, New Jersey home, was 60. Hegyes had not been in good health for the past two years, his brother Mark Hegyes said. The actor had suffered a previous heart attack in recent years. Police responded to an emergency call from Hegyes' home at approximately 9 a.m. He was transported to JFK Medical Center in Edison, New Jersey, but at that point he had gone into full cardiac arrest.

     On "Days of Our Lives", Hegyes appeared in four episodes in 1985 as Bernardo, a Viper gangmember and friend to Pete Jannings. In the storyline, Bernardo was originally hired to burn down the restaurant Shenanigans but later turned good. He ended up being killed trying to protect Pete.

     Though Hegyes also starred on the detective series "Cagney & Lacey" (as Det. Manny Esposito) and, in later years, guest-starred on shows such as "NewsRadio" and "Diagnosis Murder," Hegyes was best-known for his role as Juan Epstein -- full name: Juan Luis Pedro Phillipo de Huevos Epstein -- on the 1970s sitcom "Welcome Back, Kotter" from 1975 to 1979. Perpetually scheming and always ready with a self-written note signed "Epstein's Mother" to explain his school absences, Epstein stood out among a group of characters that included the super-cocky womanizer Vinnie Barabarino (played by a young John Travolta) and hip but beleaguered high-school teacher Gabe Kotter (played by Gabe Kaplan).

     Hegyes' last acting role was in the film "Hip, Edgy, Sexy, Cool" in 2002. He also appeared with most of the original "Kotter" cast members for a reunion at the TV Land Awards in 2011, as a commemoration for the series' 35th anniversary. The actor, born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, leaves behind a two children, Cassie and Mack, and two step-children, Sophia and Alex.

KAYE STEVENS, "DAYS" STAR OF 1970's, HAS PASSED AWAY

     Singer and actress Kaye Stevens, who appeared as Jeri Clayton on "Days of Our Lives" from 1974-1979, has died. She had been battling breast cancer and blood clots, according to Gerry Schweitzer, a close friend. Ms. Stevens died on Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at the Villages Hospital, north of Orlando, Florida. She was 79.
     Stevens is credited with helping to put the town of Margate, Florida on the map. The community's developer, Jack Marquesee, hired her to do the first commercials for Margate in the mid-1950's. She went above and beyond, often mentioning the town during her TV appearances. She once quipped on "The Tonight Show" that the entrance and exit signs for Margate are back to back. As a token of appreciation, the city named a park for her at the corner of Copans Road and State Road 7. Stevens lived in the west Broward community until 2004, when she moved to Summerfield, north of Orlando.
     Stevens was born Catherine Louise Stephens in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on July 21, 1932. Her family eventually moved to Cleveland, Ohio where a teenage Stevens got her start as a drummer and singer. She later married bandleader/trumpet player Tommy Amato, and the couple performed throughout the eastern United States (they would divorce after a seven-year marriage). During a gig in New Jersey, Stevens was discovered by Ed McMahon, Johnny Carson's longtime "Tonight Show" sidekick, which led to new bookings. Her big break came when she was playing a lounge at The Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas. Debbie Reynolds became ill and was unable to perform in the main room. Stevens filled in and was an instant hit. Stevens would later perform with Rat Pack members Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Joey Bishop. During the Vietnam War era, Stevens performed for American soldiers in the war zone with Bob Hope's USO tour. She also sang solo at venues such as Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas and the Plaza Hotel's Persian Room in New York City.
      She played Jeri Clayton on "Days" from May 1974 to April 1975 and again from April 1976 to June 1979. In the storyline, she was the mother of Trish Clayton and a singer at Doug's Place. Towards the end of her "Days" run, Marlena Evans stopped Jeri from killing herself and, soon after, Jeri left town. Stevens never signed a contract with "Days", preferring to recur while she persued other opportunities. While appearing on "Days", she was a TV game show staple, appearing on such shows as "The Match Game", "To Tell the Truth", "Hollywood Squares" and "Password." She also acted on such shows as "Chips" and "Police Woman" and appeared in six movies, earning a Golden Globe nomination in 1964 for "The New Interns."
      In a 1976 article, Stevens stated that she decided to leave "Days" the first time in 1975 because she was making $14,000 a year on the show, instead of the $25,000 she would usually get for just one singing performance. But her love for "Days" brought her back to the show a year later. Stevens felt she "had acquired a family" when she was on "Days" and noted that "when I opened my act here in Los Angeles earlier this year...co-stars Susan Seaforth Hayes and Wesley Eure wept during my entire act. [Executive producer] Betty Corday even got out of a sick bed to come see me sing and dance." 
      During the past two decades, Stevens left her acting career behind, started her own ministry, and began performing Christian and patriotic music. She staged benefits to help build St. Vincent Catholic Church in her longtime home of Margate, Florida. She leaves no immediate survivors.


GRAHAM BROWN, FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN MALE IN MAJOR ROLE ON "DAYS", PASSES AWAY


Graham Brown, the only African American male to have a major role on "Days of Our Lives" in its first decade on the air, has died.  Brown died of pulmonary failure on Tuesday, December 13, 2011 at the Lillian Booth Actors' Fund Nursing Home in Englewood, New Jersey. He was 87 and had been a resident of the Booth since 2009. On "Days", Brown appeared as Jeff Jones, a fellow prison inmate of Bill Horton & Doug Williams, for 24 episodes in 1970. There were no other African American males featured in a major role on "Days" from the show's debut in 1965 until 1975, when the Grant family moved to Salem.
 
Onstage, one of Brown's most memorable roles was Jared Philibert, the patriarch of a Caribbean family encased entirely in an iron lung, with only his head visible, in Steve Carter's play "Nevis Mountain Dew." He originated the role at the NEC and reprised it in the West Coast premiere, receiving a Los Angeles Critics' Circle Award for best actor. On television he played a judge and a minister on "Law and Order," recurred on "Days of Our Lives" and played a school principal on "Sanford and Son." He also guested on "Ironside," "Lou Grant" and "Cagney and Lacey." Brown's bigscreen credits included Spike Lee's "Malcolm X" and "Clockers" as well as "The Muppets Take Manhattan," in which he played Mr. Wrightson, the irritable department store manager. His distinctive voice could be heard in many voiceovers and commercials.

Born Robert E. Brown in New York City on October 24, 1924, he was a boxer before becoming an actor. Mr. Brown is survived by a daughter, a grandson and a sister. (Portions of the obituary are courtesy of Variety.com)

FOR THE RECORD..."DAYS" ONCE AIRED OUT OF ORDER    

     The first (and so far, only) instance of a "Days" episode being aired out of order has been found! Episode # 1797, which was set to air on Friday, December 22, 1972, had this mandate listed on the script: If there is a preemption on December 19, this episode will be held and aired on Tuesday, December 26. As it turns out, the preemption did occur (it was the Apollo 17 Final Flight Splashdown space coverage). "Days" didn't want to risk airing the Christmas episode (# 1798) set for Christmas Day 1972 a day late, so instead, they held the December 22 episode (# 1797) and aired it on December 26. So, in the official airdate order, the record now shows that "Days" aired episodes 1798, 1797, 1799 and 1800 during Christmas week of 1972.
     Ten years ago, "Days" also put this plan into action, in case there were any preemptions in the weeks leading up to Christmas 2001 (episode # 9207, the special Christmas retrospective in which the actors appeared as themselves). No preemptions ended up happening that year, so # 9207 aired as planned on Christmas Day, 2001. 


JAMES SCOTT SETS NEW "DAYS" RECORD IN NOVEMBER 2011....QUICKEST TO APPEAR IN 1,000 EPISODES IN "DAYS" HISTORY


On November 15, 2011, James Scott (EJ) appeared in his 1,000th "Days" episode. Only 1,392 episodes will have aired since Scott's debut. This is the quickest any actor has ever appeared in 1,000 episodes, with Scott breaking the all-time record of 1,422 episodes set by Alison Sweeney (Sami) in 1998, and the all-time male record of 1,433 episodes held by Macdonald Carey (Tom) since 1971. Scott becomes just the 39th actor to reach the 1,000 episode mark in "Days" history. The ranking below shows the 39 actors in order of how quickly after their debuts they made it to 1,000 episodes.

Of the current cast, the next in line to reach 1,000 episodes could be one of this trio: Molly Burnett (Melanie), Shawn Christian (Daniel) or Galen Gering (Rafe). All three will be just above the 500-episode mark at the end of 2011. None of them will reach the 1,000-episode mark until late 2014 at the earliest.

Quickest To Appear in 1,000 Episodes:

1. James Scott (E.J. DiMera)...1,392 episodes
Debut: 5/30/06 (# 10325)...1000th Episode: 11/15/11 (# 11716)

2. Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady)...1,422 episodes
Debut: 1/22/93 (# 6945)...1000th Episode: 8/26/98 (# 8366)

3. Macdonald Carey (Tom Horton)....1,432 episodes
Debut: 11/8/65 (# 1)...1000th Episode: 7/7/71 (# 1432)           

4. Jason Cook (Shawn-Douglas Brady)...1,467 episodes
Debut: 10/15/99 (# 8652)...1000th Episode: 8/9/05 (# 10118)

5. Drake Hogestyn (John Black)...1,647 episodes
Debut: 1/24/86 (# 5148)...1000th Episode: 6/18/92 (# 6794)

6. Edward Mallory (Bill Horton)...1,777 episodes
Debut: 6/21/66 (# 158)...1000th Episode: 7/31/73 (# 1934)

7. Charles Shaughnessy (Shane Donovan)...1,836 episodes
Debut: 7/31/84 (# 4765)...1000th Episode: 9/18/91 (# 6600)

8. Susan Flannery (Laura Horton)...1,845 episodes
Debut: 11/22/66 (# 265)...1000th Episode: 4/12/74 (# 2109)

9. Deidre Hall (Marlena Evans)...1,870 episodes
Debut: 6/21/76 (# 2667)...1000th Episode: 9/12/83 (# 4536)

10. Susan Seaforth Hayes (Julie Williams)...1,881 episodes
Debut: 12/11/68 (# 780)...1000th Episode: 6/10/76 (# 2660)

11. John Aniston (Victor Kiriakis)...2,012 episodes
Debut: 7/19/85 (# 5015)...1000th Episode: 5/18/93 (# 7026)

12. Melissa Reeves (Jennifer Horton)...2,097 episodes
Debut: 10/9/85 (# 5073)...1000th Episode: 12/8/93 (# 7169)

13. Bill Hayes (Doug Williams)...2,116 episodes
Debut: 2/18/70 (# 1079)...1000th Episode: 7/4/78 (# 3194)

14. John Clarke (Mickey Horton)...2,119 episodes
Debut: 11/8/65 (# 1)...1000th Episode: 4/26/74 (# 2119)

15. Patsy Pease (Kimberly Brady)...2,160 episodes
Debut: 7/24/84 (# 4760)...1000th Episode: 12/15/92 (# 6919)

16. Lauren Koslow (Kate Roberts)...2,194 episodes
Debut: 1/25/96 (# 7704)...1000th Episode: 9/27/04 (# 9897)

17. Frances Reid (Alice Horton)...2,371 episodes
Debut: 11/8/65 (# 1)...1000th Episode: 4/25/75 (# 2371)

18. Josh Taylor (Roman Brady)...2,389 episodes
Debut: 7/18/97 (# 8083)...1000th Episode: 12/27/06 (# 10471)

19. Suzanne Rogers (Maggie Horton)...2,436 episodes
Debut: 8/20/73 (# 1946)...1000th Episode: 2/7/83 (# 4381)

20. Josh Taylor (Chris Kositchek)...2,474 episodes
Debut: 8/5/77 (# 2958)...1000th Episode: 3/3/87 (# 5431)

21. Joseph Gallison (Neil Curtis)...2,516 episodes
Debut: 2/13/74 (# 2068)...1000th Episode: 11/16/83 (# 4583)

22. Bryan Dattilo (Lucas Horton)...2,608 episodes
Debut: 4/15/93 (# 7004)...1000th Episode: 7/31/03 (# 9611)

23. Arianne Zucker (Nicole Walker)...2,668 episodes
Debut: 2/27/98 (# 8240)...1000th Episode: 9/9/08 (# 10907)

24. Austin Peck (Austin Reed)...2,680 episodes
Debut: 4/13/95 (# 7507)...1000th Episode: 11/11/05 (# 10186)

25. Jed Allan (Don Craig)...2,775 episodes
Debut: 6/21/71 (# 1420)...1000th Episode: 5/20/82 (# 4194)

26. Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe Lane)...2,808 episodes
Debut: 11/24/99 (# 8680)......1000th Episode: 12/23/10 (# 11487)

27. Renee Jones (Lexie Carver)...2,888 episodes
Debut: 2/2/93 (# 6952)...1000th Episode: 6/21/04 (# 9839)

28. Christie Clark (Carrie Brady)...2,957 episodes
Debut: 4/14/86 (# 5203)...1000th Episode: 11/3/97 (# 8159)

29. Peter Reckell (Bo Brady)...3,230 episodes
Debut: 5/3/83 (# 4442)...1000th Episode: 12/8/95 (# 7671)

30. James Reynolds (Abe Carver)...3,290 episodes
Debut: 10/29/81 (# 4051)...1000th Episode: 8/11/94 (# 7340)

31. Kristian Alfonso (Hope Brady)...3,318 episodes
Debut: 4/14/83 (# 4429)...1000th Episode: 3/25/96 (# 7746)

32. Matthew Ashford (Jack Deveraux)...3,803 episodes
Debut: 10/30/87 (# 5603)...1000th Episode: 10/4/02 (# 9405)

33. Don Frabotta (Dave)...4,077 episodes
Debut: 8/27/74 (# 2206)...1000th Episode: 6/19/90 (# 6282)

34. Peggy McCay (Caroline Brady)...4,309 episodes
Debut: 2/7/83 (# 4381)...1000th Episode: 12/8/99 (# 8689)

35. Joseph Mascolo (Stefano DiMera)...4,604 episodes
Debut: 1/18/82 (# 4106)...1000th Episode: 1/6/00 (# 8709)

36. Louise Sorel (Vivian Alamain)...4,960 episodes
Debut: 3/2/92 (# 6716)...1000th Episode: 9/19/11 (# 11675)

37. Mary Beth Evans (Kayla Johnson)...5,332 episodes
Debut: 5/23/86 (# 5232)...1000th Episode: 5/4/07 (# 10563)

38. Thaao Penghlis (Tony DiMera/Andre DiMera)...5,676 episodes
Debut: 11/6/81 (# 4057)...1000th Episode: 1/20/04 (# 9732)

39. Stephen Nichols (Steve Johnson)...5,767 episodes
Debut: 6/13/85 (# 4989)...1000th Episode: 2/5/08 (# 10755)


RECKELL SETS ALL-TIME MONTHLY EPISODE LEADER RECORD!

     Congratulations to Peter Reckell (Bo), who is now the all-time "Days of Our Lives" leader in monthly episode appearances! Reckell's September 2011 lead marks the 45th time he has led the monthly rankings. He passes Macdonald Carey (Tom Horton), who led the rankings for 44 months during his tenure with the show from November 1965 to February 1994. It is the first time Reckell has led the monthly rankings since August 2009.
     Tying Reckell for the lead in September 2011 is, fittingly, Kristian Alfonso (Hope). This is Alfonso's 37th time to lead the monthly rankings. She last led the rankings in April 2008.
     This is the 16th time that Alfonso and Reckell have led the monthly rankings together, and the first time since June 2006. They have led the monthly rankings together in November 1984, January 1986, May 1990, August 1995, September 1995, November 1996, October 1998, September 1999, April 2000, December 2001, April 2002, May 2002, April 2004, April 2006, June 2006 and September 2011.

CONGRATULATIONS, MARY!

     Congratulations to Mary Garripoli (Mary, the DiMera maid) who has been named Teacher of the Year in her school district! When not in Salem, Mary is a special education teacher in Glendale, California.


CATCH THE "DAYS" MINI-PLOTS IN AUGUST & SEPTEMBER

     Co-Executive Greg Meng explained the "Days" mini-plots to Soap Opera Digest: "We are incorporating what we're calling 'mini-plots,' and the first one aired August 1. It is a little surprise element, and there is going to be one integrated into each show. There's more in store: The mini-plots will develop over time. You'll have to watch us now to see how they and we change leading up to September."  The mini-plots (flashbacks of "Days" scenes) air at the half-way point of the show, and are replacing the "hourglass insert" for the next two months, so make sure not to fast-forward through that commercial break! The last mini-plot aired on Friday, September 23.

ALI DIRECTS


     Alison Sweeney (Sami) made her directing debut on the Monday, August 1 episode of "Days of Our Lives." Sweeney becomes just the second "Days" actor to direct the show. The late Edward Mallory (Bill Horton) directed some episodes in 1991 and 1992.

HORTON TOWN SQUARE

     The "transition" episodes written by the new writing team of Marlene McPherson and Darrell Ray Thomas (episodes # 11679 and # 11680) were taped on Tuesday, July 12 and Wednesday, July 13 and will air on Friday, September 23 and Monday, September 26. Along with the returns of fan favorites Matthew Ashford (Jack), Christie Clark (Carrie), Deidre Hall (Marlena), Drake Hogestyn (John) and Patrick Muldoon (Austin), as well as appearances by Bill Hayes (Doug) and Susan Seaforth Hayes (Julie), these special episodes will also feature a brand new set: Horton Town Square. Reports from the set seem to indicate that the new set will be dedicated to the memory of Dr. Tom Horton and Alice Horton (original cast members Macdonald Carey and Frances Reid), and that there will be many mentions of Tom and Alice in the episodes. Also, for the first time since the new budget took effect at the beginning of 2009, the studio is taping past 6PM. Up until 2009, it was common for "Days" to tape well into the late night hours, but due to budget constraints, the show has not taped past 6PM in the past two-and-a-half years. More information will be posted as soon as it is available.

THE "NEW" DAYS IS SET FOR SEPTEMBER 26, 2011!

     Executive Producer Ken Corday is resetting "Days of our Lives" with the simple yet successful formula of centering the show around romance and the characters fans know and love. "It's time to make a more positive, romantic, and intriguing show driven by the power of heroic love. I'm very excited about the new adventure we are about to take which is based on the show that my parents created 45 years ago."
     "Days of our Lives" initiated a strong direction of change by appointing a new head writing team consisting of Marlene McPherson and Darrell Ray Thomas. The successful writing duo plan to change the direction of the show as they tell contemporary stories based on the solid foundation of the "Days" history of family, romance, and intrigue. McPherson and Thomas commented, "New fans will find many reasons to stay, and longtime fans will find many reasons to return." Launching with a grand event in the fall, big surprises will be coming to Salem.
     Co-Executive Producer Noel Maxam, who has been a producer on the show for four years, and Co-Executive Producer Greg Meng, who has been Executive in Charge of Production for over ten years, will work together as a team. "The new writing team has already generated much excitement with the compelling stories they have written, and we plan to translate those stories to the screen with a refreshed look," commented Greg Meng.
     Ken Corday commented, "I am confident these changes will bring back excitement and anticipation to our family of fans as they tune in each day to see what happens. You won't want to miss a single episode of the new 'Days' ahead!"

BO ON TOP

     On February 11, 2011, Bo Brady became the leader in "Days" episode appearances! Along with Robert Kelker-Kelly's 595 episodes, Peter Reckell appeared in his 3,287th episode on February 11. This was Bo's 3,882nd appearance on "Days", passing Marlena Evans' former record of 3,881 episodes. No other character has yet to appear in 3,400 episodes besides Bo or Marlena.

11111...

The 1/11/11 episode of "Days of Our Lives" is the fifth time in "Days" history when the date has been comprised of the same numbers. Here's a look back at each episode:

6/6/66: Episode # 148
Cast: Tom, Marie, Craig, Julie, David.

7/7/77: Episode # 2937
Cast: Greg, Bob, Phyllis, Amanda, Neil, Robert, Rebecca, Brooke, Trish, Mary, Dougie, Dave, Gus, Mrs. Hanover.

8/8/88: Episode # 5801
Cast: Kimberly, Shane, Caroline, Steve, Roman, Kayla, Frankie, Diana, Eve, Calliope, Benjy, Street Vendor.

9/9/99: Episode # 8626
Cast: John, Hope/Gina, Bo, Kate, Billie, Stefano, Eric, Greta, Nicholas, Kurt, Julie, Doug, Victor, Rolf, Young Greta, Paul (Physical Therapist), French Waiter, Clerk # 1, Clerk # 2, Official, Gravedigger # 1, Gravedigger # 2.

1/11/11: Episode # 11500
Cast: Caroline, Sami, EJ, Stephanie, Lexie, Chloe, Daniel, Nicole, Melanie, Stefano, Rafe, Nathan, Chad, Carly, Kayla, Johnny, Parker, Moving Man, Nurse.

"DAYS" RENEWED THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2013!

     UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. November 8, 2010 NBC has picked up its daytime drama "Days of our Lives" which is celebrating its 45th season today on NBC -- for two more years through the 2012-13 season. The announcement was made today by Jeff Gaspin, Chairman, NBC Universal Television Entertainment. "Days of our Lives" remains vitally creative through the years as it continues to draw new generations of viewers, especially among its loyal female audience" said Gaspin.
"NBC salutes the series on its 45th anniversary and we look forward with great anticipation to working with the production team for the years to come. This important and enduring series is an iconic part of NBC's history as well as that of daytime drama, said Bruce Evans, Senior Vice President, Current Programming, NBC Entertainment. "The creative team, cast and crew work hard each day to ensure that "Days" continues to remain fresh and relevant to its legions of devoted fans across the country. 
     "With great joy, I am pleased to announce the best news any soap opera could receive. "Days of our Lives" has been picked up through September of 2013, said Ken Corday, executive producer of "Days." "We extend our greatest gratitude to NBC for blessing us with the gift of such an amazing commitment. We continue to be big believers in the serialized daytime drama and we're thrilled that our great partners at NBC have renewed "Days of our Lives," said Steve Mosko, president, Sony Pictures Television. An iconic global brand, "Days" entertains millions of loyal, engaged viewers, on television and online, in the US and around the world.
     "Days of our Lives" (Monday-Friday, 1-2 p.m. in most markets; check local listings) first premiered as a half-hour drama in 1965 and expanded to an hour 10 years later. Today, it remains a consistent favorite among viewers of daytime television serials and is currently tied for #4 for the season among all daytime dramas in women 18-49, tied for #2 in women 18-34 and tied for #1 among girls 12-17, according to Nielsen Media Research. Through six weeks of the 2010-11 season, "Days" is averaging 2.6 million viewers. In its 45 years, "Days of our Lives" has garnered numerous Emmy Awards and nominations, as well as multiple Soap Opera Digest and People's Choice Awards. "Days of our Lives" is set in the fictitious Midwestern town of Salem. The core families are the Bradys, the Hortons and the DiMeras, and the multi-layered storylines involve elements of romance, adventure, mystery, comedy and drama.

"DAYS" IN HIGH DEFINITION

"Days of Our Lives" began broadcasting in High Definition on November 9, 2010, the day after the series' 45th anniversary.