The Soap Goddess..lathering it Up

2009-07-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

How many of you heard that phrase from headwriters'...'The character is going in a new direction' or, "we are taking the show in a new direction...' or howabout this one...."Its time to move on... do any of those sound abundantly familiar?

They should because its the code word for Soap writers when they are doing something completely OPPOSITE than before...well guess what...
Goddess is going in a "new direction....":))))

I stated this in my last blog, that I have no trouble praising good quality writing nor do I have any trouble whatsoever recognizing an effort made forth in this industry to save it. I feel I have finally found my answer and its a very, nice surprise.

Days of Our Lives dominated the demos; the mags and of course viewers' hearts and souls during the glorious eighities and early nineties with their sweeping sagas of love stories and romance...ah yes I recall it well. I used to race home; tape whenever I could of the Saga of Bo and Hope and I will never ever forget that glorious sweeps location scene with Bo racing on his motor cycle to the tunes of "I need a hero" by Bonnie Tyler and barrelling inside the church to rescue his Fancy face from the evil Larry Welch.....Stunning, romantic gorgeous and it captured me as a true blue Bo and Hope lover but most of all, I feel for the writing.

Stunning Margaret De Priest.

You know her, don't you? well let's see. You may not know the name but you do know her storylines...Bo and Hope;, Shane and Kimberly; Justin and Adrienne; Roman and Marlena; Calliope and Eugene; Steve and kayla...Melissa and Pete; Frankie and Jennifer...ah yes recall those pairings? Neil and Liz?
Now let's talk about her writing partners...Thoma Racina and Sheri Anderson under the compelling production of the one and only, Shelley Curtis. Days was on the map and featured in every Soap Opera magazine the publishers could get their hands on and they dominated the key demographics. Sigh....The late eighties nineties under Anne Howard Bailey after her stint with Santa Barbara...can I just say...what happened to those glorious romances?

Ah yes...Well the late James E. Reilly took Days so into the abyss of far-fetched plot driven storytelling it became a universal trend along with other daytime writers just chimping at the bit to SHOCK YOU to watch...
Good quality storytelling took a backseat and days began to sink.....sigh....

The Best comeback stories are the ones you never see happening at all. When Ed Scott joined the fold last year with Corday and company, an impressive 13 emmy nominations was delivered to NBC and Corday's writing andproduction team...how on earth could this happen?

Simple.

Somebody listened and somebody woke up.

Now alas, Ed scott is gone once again and Dena Higley is still at the helm of Days...but with a surprising twist. Christopher Whitesell a Doug Marland apprentice from years back at ATWT who just so happened, to bring some of the most compelling work to General Hospital in the nineties....Sunset Beach he worked with none other than...Maggie De Periest...The man's credentials are truly well respected.....But who pre tell to produce such sweeping sagas of Days past Corday was on the hunt....
Gary Tomlin who rose OLTL to the top with critics and with demos at record speed. Sigh, Goddess adores Gary for oh so many reasons.....
He worked with Anne Howard Bailey at Santa Barbara along with Charles Pratt Jr; Frank Salisbury..Bob Guza and wife Meg Bennett, ...oh gee his writing bud Richard Culliton who is penning scripts for Days now, and ah yes, none other than my favorite scribe, Patrick Mulcahey.
So why does this formula work?
Proof is in the demos and ratings. Days has been climbing non stop with a bullet in the numbers by showcasing once more, the sweeping love stories; character driven format; young couples who are core characters from the rich history of the show....but with a twist....
It has the feel of Doug Marland written all over it and that pleases me ever so because.....

His RULEBOOK is present in the writing.

So let's talk about what Days is doing right...and what the other shows are doing wrong.

At GH.....Very convoluted. Guza has lost his way and cannot seem to stop interference from Brian Frons and he cannot seem to find the right blend...no matter how hard he tries...

Guza MUST FACE REALITY:

Sonny/Jason/MOB is PLAYED OUT.

Should he decide to end it once and for all, then Guza must rediscover his roots as a writer and recall what made him so incredibly famous in the first place: His ability to find the right character writer to connect with the viewer. In this case, that does not seem to be happening because the show has been on a rollercoaster ride of plot innuendo to make the mob story WORK.
Let it go Bob.....Let it GO.

Bold.

My goodness how to wreck a soap in just thirty days..would you like to see? Just disagree with key demographics and longtime viewers who understand the quality and the genre and wow.........you are on a roll. That 2.3 is going down down down..I have been hearing the proverbial call Bradley from your longtime viewership since 1987...

*Crickets chirping* .............they are moving...but where to?

Salem, perhaps?

With the compelling love Story of Daniel and Chloe, Days seems to have found its energy once again. The 'New Bo and Hope" of the Show are intriguing viewers all over with the intensity of SEXATION.....Yes you heard it right.....sexation...a word you simply do not see on soaps anymore and why is that?

Because majority of cast members on Soaps are well past their prime acting in youth storylines while the audience recalls watching them when they lived it previously. You cannot go back so....showcase new pairings with the heat intensity and INVEST.
Days heard the call and wow, in an impressive notion, there is a pairing for each and every single demographic. Daniel and Chloe; Rafe and Sami; Nicole and Ej; Stephanie and Phillip; Mia and Chad; Brady and Arianna; Bo and Hope and ah yes....must say it the new "jack and Jennifer of Days...Melanie and Nathan....

So that about covers the 12-17 18-34 18-49 and it shows because Days of Our Lives is once again #1 in the 18-34 demosa nd now climbing in 18-49 and only .2 of a point away from reaching the number two spot in households. How in the hell did this happen?

Simple....

Corday LISTENED and brought back the character driven romances of the 80's and 90's back with an impressive line up of writers; driven producers and a message to inform the Daytime genre....

"WE'RE BACK".

So am I.

Congratulations Corday. After my bow out in the mid nineties, I have returned because of three things:
The writing the writing the writing....
Keep it going.:)))

2009-06-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

One needs to count their blessings especially when it means ‘someone is watching over you’ whether spiritually or physically; either way, count your blessings. I do it every day. So, I just wanted to thank every one for their kind wishes and prayers; from my clientele; My Family, Friends and of course the cyber soap world. It means a great deal. So, I am sure many have questions as to what happened…a little info. I have Multiple Sclerosis http://www.nationalmssociety.org/get-involved/programs-and-services/scholarship/criteria-and-information/index.aspx and sometimes, your brain doesn’t want to cooperate with nerves sending messages to your brain; so unlike a person who is intoxicated, we have no control over what happens next. In My case, I couldn’t swallow, see or comprehend fast enough-which sucks because if someone is asking you a question like, ‘Tracy, can you spell your name?’ Um, no ‘I’ can’t. A great medication called, Solu-Medrol enters my system for about five days through an I.V. and POOF! Goddess is feeling better; tired and fatigued but better. So I am getting stronger, resting and adjusting to a new, ‘gulp’ diet. I can’t swallow like I used to so there goes my love for Snickers! Argh! Rats I’d have a snickers and a V8 for lunch and I would be happy. Now I opt for the V8 with a splash of Grey Goose and I’m oh so, feeling much better.:)

So, now that we have skimmed over that, let’s discuss…’the show’. My goodness after all of the praising I was doing for Bell’s serial and the amazing storytelling…just not meant to last I guess we are back to my favorite phrase surmising Bell’s penchant for the ridiculous, ‘Out of the Blue Storytelling’ is BACK! SO beware…what to do viewers? Well I certainly wouldn’t ride the ‘Perfect Storm’ out we all saw what happened when the boat capsized, right? Instead of sticking it out, GO. No Seriously I said GO….find a nice new hobby or a show that will give you what you want. No sense on depriving GOOD writers the opportunity to ‘wow’ you with what they can give. Days must be doing something because they are in third place behind Bold and ahead of Bold in the key Demos. So Um While Dena Higley is not my favorite writer at all, Gary Tomlin deserves praise because well, after all, he is part of my ‘Brain Trust’ from Santa Barbara Days. So, Ken ahem, Bob, and Gary, feel free to steal those young viewers who cannot seem to find a ‘home’ at CBS. It is a ‘dog eat dog’ business, ya know.

I asked for an interview with this head writer, and this is the response I get; a double whammy of the plot driven stories plaguing the half hour show…as if the ‘bird’ flew in the face of kindness…Goddess doesn’t like her time being wasted, so guess what Moi did? LOL! If you simply cannot find a ‘Soap’ with enough luscious, rich, and vibrant suds decorating the lovely sunken, clawed bathtub you ‘create your own’….as in a novel, which is what I’ve done and to my surprise, three agencies are reviewing the manuscript. Needless to say I am over the moon. There’s something truly satisfying when someone admires your work no matter what profession it may be, it’s just an honor, period. I will keep you all posted on this.

In the meantime, pay attention to the ratings. 2.4? Muahahahahaha, Goddess says rubbing her hands vigorously with a sigh whispering, ‘I told……..you….’ Audience always has the last laugh no matter what. It doesn’t matter what is going on the boards{except dead silence of course lol} never betray their trust because they will, reward this industry with a swift kick of REALITY TV. It does not matter what’s written, if you have no ‘HOOK’ and any writer (Except Bell himself) will tell you, nobody is going to invest in what you sell. So audience, once again the victory goes to you…How does it feel knowing you have so much power without realizing it? Industry never wants you to figure it out….their jobs depend on you being clueless. Writers, it sucks, I know having to pen garbage especially {and I said this last night} when its like having sex with someone you simply are not ‘in love or lust with’ and the end result is always the same thing:…No coming to a sensational climax means…..a ‘pitiful’…performance…until Next time.:))))

Bell....Book....&...Candle...

2009-05-06T01:20:00.000-07:00

I have a meaning for that title....

Brad Bell, I still would like an interview with you and some from the writing team at fan event August 29th, after perusing the message boards including my own home turf, The House of Bridge...very curious how you plan to provide thought provoking stories without burning the audience to the point they refuse to come back....Is the rule book being followed, here? Or are we living on the wild side yet again to see if we can shock the female?

Writers, what's going on inside your mindset here? Is there at least ONE male character on Bold rootworthy towards a female viewing audience? Or are the days of waiting for a romantic male hero coming to an end?

According to one who is quite familiar with the history of this show and has been watching the writers very closely, I find her commentary fascinating...

"That is the problem with Brad and Patrick right now.... stop looking at the SL on paper and watch the screen! As for "getting past the sexual stuff".... that sounds like a lame Nick Marone line.... and how many times has Bridget been asked to get past the sexual thing by her beaus?Sex does have meaning. It is not a casual nothing..... it is the centerpiece of the Ridge-Rick war. It is the lingering hurt in Bridget's heart. The problem with Bold and Beautiful is the lack of a romantic story.... why paint a character as a MILF chaser if you have intended to sell him as a romantic lead later?"

Because from what I have received in pm's, emails and such, {and to those I thank you for responding}, you are not winning over the women with "hearts and flowers..." many want to engage in a game of chicken and see who ducks first- I can honestly say right now, if I were to wager, ...Its never good to upset or alienate a very wary viewing audience....such as this one.from the HOB from L239x...

"Right now, I treat this show like it has a contagious disease, so I stay away. I check-in here from time to time to see how it’s doing. I wish it (the show) will get better so I can start visiting it again. I even hold out hope that it (the show) will even make a full recovery so I can start hanging out with it, like I use to do.However, if Ridge stupidly falls into Stephanie and Taylor’s manipulations and leaves Brooke, even if it's just for 1 second, I will officially acknowledge its death, move on, and never look back."

..Just a thought here...

....but first....

As promised my interview with Chief Technologist Daniel Mance, of the Harris Corporation, Broadcast Communications. As many of you in the industry know Harris is one of the leading technology companies... We had a delightful discussion during the NAB, {National Association of Broadcasting} on the future of television, and what it means to you.

1. About the New plan Broadcasting has to keep on the airwaves........

Television broadcasting is still very relevant. It’s very much a part of our cultural media heritage, our home social viewing experience and the primary means for delivering news and entertainment to the home. That being said, traditional television is undergoing radical change in the way content is delivered and accessed. Scheduled programming that canters to the habitual routine of prime-time TV is on the wane – giving way to on-demand and open access content. You will still watch the same programs, on the same flat panel – but the way you received and navigated your content will change. And that’s only looking 5-7 years out. Beyond that, I’m not sure if the television experience will be recognizable. The internet will continue to redefine our relationship to visual media and we’ll look back at the 50years of TV and consider it to be quaint.

2. the Decline of Media and Journalism........

So, the transition of TV to the web puts us all on ‘internet time’ as it’s called – where information is free flowing, our attention span is limited and so the sound and visual bites are smaller. This is particularly true for news and journalism. As we search out the nuggets of information we want, our tolerance for broadcast pandering or unwanted deviation is practically zero. So, first is that we are reluctant to spend time on analysis and review and secondly, we don’t want to pay for the content. Nobody has the patience or time to devote an hour to a news program – and certainly not do so if we are subject to advertising or superfluous production. So, the story is cut short due to our shorten’d attention span – and our unwillingness to sit through a ‘show’ or commit to a regime of viewing reduces its value . Without a value proposition, the news or commentary program is suffering.-

3. and just HOW Much it costs to sell ad blocks to advertisers on TV and CABLE compared to what it would cost On the internet.........

The costs of television based advertising vary based on time, program content association and market penetration(ratings) – as well as total packaging of the advertising bundle. Normally, advertisers runs large blocks of ad, called ‘campaigns’ across various media: TV and On-Line. Actual price variations depend on many things – I cant suggest the ratio of costs because although each prime time TV spot (say $5,000 per showing for a $100,000 campaign over a week) in a major market has more focus than banner or pop-up ads that are similarly priced in total but have a much more dispersed base in time and placement.

4. why Networks are showcasing their TV shows on the internet

Because, finally, there are vehicles that allow them to present their content, in a protected setting, and derive adversting dollars in much the same way as traditional television. Look to HULU as a leader in this area.

5. And the future impact of Youtube , Twitter, and the Main websites...

YouTube is, in fact, loosing lots of money. Content like that is fun to dabble in, good for viral video and fortunately Google has lots of money to throw at the servers and networking to make it work. But without premium content, it does not have a business model.

Thank you so much for your time, Dan. Looking forward to seeing you Next year...

Ah yes, back to our discussion in regards to the male lead on Soaps. In the eighties, it was Cruz Castillo, {super cop and beloved hero rescuing the lovely heroine Eden Capwell} Bo Brady of DOOL, {Super bad boy from the merchant marines who loved Hope Williams to the point he chased her down at the church to prevent her marrying larry Welch...ahh one of the reasons I fell for soaps....} to none other than Lucas Lorenzo Spencer of GH, reformed mob man on the run with Laura Baldwin....{still love that summer of GH from 1980....The dance at the department store....to being stuck on Cassadine Island}.

Yes THOSE types of romantic heroes. Most of them were never just a good guy to start with but a rogue or a bad boy with a heart of gold....... Bold has never had one of these....and this is what women search for: The romantic male lead who loves and desires the woman of his dreams and fights for their happiness and her love.....How can any soap opera stand on its own without the draw of romance to its female viewer if the show continues to write male leads unsvory to women?

"Tacky, unimaginative writing, darling...... Ridge was never a MILF chaser.... that is still my point. Chasing sex for political purposes is Rick's M.O. right now..... not a favorable comparision for Owen."

Currently, we have Ridge giving ultimatums to his "Wife" Brooke, in regards to her son Rick; while allowing his former wife to manipulate the situation time and time again....the dialogue now has Ridge becoming silent when it comes to sticking up for his wife-

Viewers are not happy.

We have Rick Forrester, Brooke and Eric's son who is playing the dark knight of this show who battles with his unwavering hatred for the father of his love Steffy.....to the point that Rick crossed such a line that it disgusted many women tenfold....

Viewers again not Happy.

"that would be the predictable, tacky retread soap thing to do......the writers, however, have not established Rick and Steffy as another Ridge and Brooke.... I do not watch the show to see Reffy........."

We have Eric Forrester who is married to trophy wife Donna Logan....who delights in honey bathing moments at the office and making poor decisions and engaging in bad judgement when it comes to his children....

Viewers again Not HAPPY.

We have Nick Marone a character that came on in 2003 to be this salty sea captain who now is entrepeneur wanna be and has slept with every female on this show except Stephanie, Donna, and his Mother.....Has a child with Brooke and a seedy past; had a child with Bridget that died but then left to be with her Mother; was engaged to bridget her daughter again but slept with Katie her aunt....Moved on with Taylor, but then couldn't get past his love for Brooke....Now Nick is caught between his ex wife, bridget {his ex wife's daughter; one of his exes..}..and her aunt his current fiancee...

Viewers again Not Happy.

Nick is a pig and he will never change. The only time he's sorry is when he's caught with his zipper down and then his sorry only lasts 2 seconds.

And finally, we have Owen who came on with such promise is now fooling around with the boss {Nick's Mother} while making ga ga eyes at bridget.....

Viewers are Not Happy.

And i get soaps are about angst, i just wish they would create another angle then these boring triangle's. Also alot of Bridget fans will be turned off by this, thats the thing i dont get about this sl.

And finally, Don Diamont joins May 12, his character is a womanzier...doesn't care who he insults.....and women are supposed to fall for this man? because he has money?

'It is funny that when our show debuted in 1987 much was made about Caroline being Bill Spencer' only child.....Now Bill has potentially 4 children.... and by how many women..... hmmm.... uncharacteristic of the upright, principled, media magnate who prized loyalty.I am not sold on the idea of Bill Jr.... we will see ho Brad Bell spins this one.... I dont like the idea of Joanna Johnson returning to sell us Don Diamont.I prefer the return of Karen Spencer as a reveal of Owen's paternity."

So if, the true formula is to have female viewers come back to watching soaps, why is it that this show is more about the male audience instead? I simply do not understand the deliberate attempt by the writing team to alienate their viewing audience. If its about giving "something for everyone", then writers, you wind up pleasing no one...?

Let's just call it like it is..... the pairing of older gen-younger gen couples is a Brad Bell fetish..... tainting Owen thru a MILF does not make him a stud.... it raises a red flag to women who have suffered men with libidos they chose not to control.How many times must Brad and Patrick create scenes where Owen ignores Bridget and pursues Jackie? I can count at least two ..... my gfs have all abandoned B&B for OLTL.... I have joined them in their admiration for the Brody-Jessica storlyline.Havent abandoned our show.............. yet.Browen no longer compels me to watch, btw. I am a huge Susan Flannery fan.As far as writing a romance...... where is Bridget Dobson now? I would LOVE for the Dobsons to create a new soap."

I think she may be on to something here....Patrick, Brad, Michael, Betsy Snyder, and others... take notes from this...you never know who may be grading you...she makes a valid point...

Writers......you have lots of work to do.....

Until next time...

And the Future of Broadcasting is.........

2009-04-22T23:25:00.000-07:00

The Internet?

According to many who would know who are attending the National Association of Broadcasting Convention here in Las Vegas. I mean my goodness, who says a nail tech can't be in the thick of things, riiiiiiiiight?

Yes yes yes It seems it is much more affordable for showrunners to PAY for ad spots on the internet than on Television, apparently "quality programming" is becoming so out of reach for the networks, they are using a better alternative. To run an ad on Network TV is three times Higher than it costs to run an ad spot on their website....let me say this again, three times the amount and the costs keep increasing annually.

Broadcasting cannot afford it.

I was fortunate to speak to an executive from Harris Corp and I will have that interview in the next blog. Spoke with many other Technology companies who preferred to stay anonymous but for the most part, gave me this the writing is on the wall,..and I quote this,

"We're entering a new age of Broadcasting because its the only way to prevent the networks from collapsing."

Okay let me explain here on what this means to you who is reading this blog:

1) Networks have a priority....to keep Media going on the airwaves. To pay for those ad spots, is becoming increasingly difficult....and its making media the number one focus even though 90% of viewership is Entertainment. Journalism has been tainted over the past eight years because of these ad spots that used to follow the news programming. Many have gone bankrupt because of the bail out. Their companies would pay for ad spots for the news. Media has a tainted reputation because the very same ads perhaps was influencing their opinions on how to conduct their programming? remember Edward R Murrow refusing to negotiate with the advertisers? And then there is the fall of Kingpin Newpapers including the New York Times, La Times and even the Washington Tribune are just a few to name that are being echoed around here are getting the bailout from the government.Control over the press? Well Government argues networks have damaged the institution..... its truly a sad reality.

2) What about the Networks? Ah yes. That's next. According to those in the know it seems the networks are negotiating with........guess who to help during this overall economy?..Hey if the newspapers can get it why can't networks who broadcast Media? ..I guess the reality shows are not enough to make it cheaper for NBC ABC and CBS and FOX to continue? Apparently not.

3) I asked this question three times. What about the overall ratings system Neilsen?

The hints of Big Brother were asked, answered and it may just be the world's reality in how they know what we watch; how many are watching and how often...A few ways this is being done, is by going to the websites such as YouTube, Twitter; {yes I asked on this}official network websites, Podcasts; your blackberry; your cell phone? Every time you click on a show let's say you haven't watched or you want to watch again and again and again, Its being recorded and its making it easier to give a portfolio of what is gaining interest and how many times often...So yes they are watching you....I found this stuff to be pretty cool here. If Neilsen is on the way out so Networks can monitor your habits by satellite, or a click of a mouse, this will spark quite a bit of controversy on some level because of privacy.act?..I mean does this have anything to do with...cookies on your hardrive?

Enter the switch from Analog {bye bye Boob Tube}to Mobile Digital TV????..The wave of the future is here...Technology has set the stage for our information systems to be a camera..No longer do we need a box to keep track of what we are watching here technology has made it possible to monitor everything. So what happens when the whole, is counted and not a piece or an average of people are being sampled? AD spots become cheaper. The more people watching the more cost effective it is for networks to pay licensing fees...but the rumors are swirling here that the plan is to go directly to internet. More or less this could be within reach and possibly negotiable, so there's that one upside to this. Sounds expensive, doesn't it?

You bet it is.

Not even Primetime television is the top priority with Network moguls now. Can the networks survive or are they going the way of analog?. Its all about media right now so reality TV makes it cheaper for Fox, NBC and CBS.......and what is that doing to the writers; showrunners; directors, Producers?

Slim pickens here people.

I even asked how would this affect Daytime TV and one insider actually said to me, "I thought daytime was Dr Phil and Ellen?" No mention of the soaps at all from any of them because Network has plans {And NBC is definitely doing this} to phase out certain formats and embrace new ideas that are much more "affordable"? Many are dismayed over this.

So lets go back to the Internet here, its much more than just the information highway, its a roadmap for broadcasting to navigate where consumers like yourself go on a regular basis. With everything moving to satellite, you just may see your television line up on the computer screen for good.

So to Brad Bell and his PR and sales department, hats off to you for creating B&B youtube page...now viewers can see old episodes, new episodes.....would this mean residuals for others? If so great job.:) the more repeats shown, is a good thing...On Twitter now; Facebook....What Bell is doing is probably a very ingenius move because he has the advantage the rest of the shows do not. Bold is shown in over 100 countries. Thats a lot in reserves.

As for Bold, one of my client's came in this week and she has been watching since 1987 and she is hilarious! The Campbell Roofing Ladies watch faithfully every day at lunch.in Memphis Tennesee..they prefer it to be an hour show because thirty minutes is a cheap tease....well Linda honey, now you can watch the cheap tease thirty forty times just by clicking on your cell phone...as she does to read this blog....

So hopefully this installment helps people to understand why its important for Daytime to reach out over the internet to gain viewership. Its not just about the show anymore, its the future of quality programming. Even Primetime and ah yes Cable shows are doing this. Hey if we all could get rid of the ads, right? So many edit them out to watch the shows. But unfortunately it pays for what you see...so help your shows just by clicking your mouse or keypad ...In truth you are saving jobs here.

Because if quality programming goes.....so does the imagination...keep it alive.

The Soap Writer is Damned if you Do and Damned if you Don't...

2009-04-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

Just reminding the Headwriter/EP again of the challenge I proposed to him in the last blog feature...Ah yes The Goddess wants a no-holds-barred interview with the Soap Scribe at this August Fan Event in LA. I feel it would be a good thing to help re-establish trust with the writing team and its very leery audience{yes brad this truly does need to be done} I mean not everyone can see the forrest through the trees here, especially when the trust factor has been so damaged in Daytime..I mean you even have the mags back to trying to gain the audience's trust so, ...in my honest opinion, I feel this would be a way to help it. Again, you can let me know in your own special way as you ponder on that thought.

I Had an interesting conversation this week with a showrunner who does documentaries with the History Channel now but used to be a producer for Childrens' programming. Shows such as Mortal Kombat , Dogfights, and even Clifford The Big Red Dog..But as our conversation turned to the Guild, and of course network anxiet, ...Oh yes the echoes are getting longer about how writers are being pushed out in favor for in-expensive reality shows.... Its not just soaps that are in trouble. Primetime is and the jobs are becoming scarce for good solid writers in Hollywood. The Obsession with reality shows such as American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, The Apprentice and so on is finally making a dent. We are entering a new realm of cheap gimmicks at a very costly price to Hollywood.

I feel its extremely important to keep this advertised loud enough so viewers are fully aware of the impact Daytime/Primetime writers, actors, directors and yes even producers are feeling here. The cutbacks are getting wider, and the unemployment line is getting long..Its important to support your writers because without them your entertainment goes fully out the window...

The Loss of Guiding Light, and the rumblings of As The World Turns living on borrowed time, is just another reason for us to change the way we have been thinking about Soaps I can still recall someone in the industry informing me that Soaps are dying and will be gone in five years-That was back in 2001 It is now 2009 and they are still holding on-but barely....as we all have been led to believe...We would like them to keep thriving and enjoy our guilty pleasures here, but how do we accomplish that if we are ranting and raving over and over how terrible the soap storylines are? We are killing our overall message here.

If showrunners are visiting the cyberworld along with their writing teams and listening to the overall demands, and they comply, yet nobody is happy, then the Soap Writer is damned if they do, and damned if they don't. I usually like to use this phrasing for a character that can't win, but this time, it seems the writers can't....If they give the viewer juicy story, its met with skepticism and overall DOOM. I witnessed several meltdowns this past weekend all because of plotlines coming to fruition...A kiss....A sexual romp....and an overall fear, that what people have invested in is about to be blown to bits....

The Drama is always on....as CBS says but to me, its on the message boards. Viewers have asked for thought provoking storylines; long term committments; slow burns not rushed romances even comedy....and when its presented to them, its met with such anxiety

People, but forgive me for saying this but follow the storyline here. Drama must occur to make stories interesting otherwise the characters run out of avenues to travel....the long road home. It doesn't mean the stories end, it means there's been layers added to a beautiful feast...but its not done yet. When the time comes to partake in that indulgence, you'll be grateful you waited. Trying to recall what Doug Marland Said, oh yes, "Never give the audience what you have led them to want; instead give them something they didn't expect that they'll like even better." A direct quote from Patrick Mulcahey when referring to the learnings of Marland philosophy....and its so true....if you give it too soon, it never lasts....thus longterm story arcs, which I am finding refreshing these days! Writers are not in the business of giving the merchandise away, they are in the busines off keeping you glued to your seats with underlying currents bubbling to the surface. Its called Build up....and its the traditional Marland/Phillips/Bell Formula and its making a comeback...Do many not see this?

A few hints here. Who did not love Jack Wagner, Susan Flannery and Hunter Tylo last week? Susan and Jack are just bringing a whole new dimension to this show and I love it! How much fun are you having writers? To be able to take risks; stir the pot and make them character driven? You know, I just simply knew my little biast Ticky loving heart would go pitter patter seeing the two of them in the room again. It was such a delight to watch. Again, why did this pairing end? I feel, it deserves another closer look here, especially with Nick suggesting he and Stephanie and Taylor make such a formidable team, don't you? The dynamics of Nick/Taylor breathes life into this show while supports several sub plots waiting to be unveiled here. Continue to bond, over coffee, I say. Its better than pistachioes.

The Build up with Rick and Ridge is reaching the boiling point but there's a foreshadowing event about to ripple through as Thomas is making a return...is he truly cured? Point Dume Malibu is the sacred spot for the dedicated Bridge fan as we all know Point Dume was 1994 when Tracey Ann Kelley wrote such beatiful vows for this pairing..ah yes and the scar tissue that led up to its destruction over the years.....and now its coming full circle....but for whom...Rick.............or Ridge?

Bridget& Owen, well my goodness, what a lovely way to postpone the inevitable. I truly am enjoying the writing for these two. The dialogue from April 7th about Bridget afraid to move forward still stuck in the mire not able to get over Nick just yet while Owen being forced to let go and move forward ah yes and the beautiful embrace at the end..To quote my friend Distraction, "Simply gorgeous" writers! While Jackie plays with Owen pushing Nicket; Bridget lingers for Owen and for Nick as Katie wants a wedding date set...how will Bridget react to the news that Owen is seeing Jackie? How will Owen react to seeing Bridget with Nick? and how will the Cougar react to Bridget and Owen's feelings for each other, especially Nick? Gee katie, I feel you should find out about Bridget and Owen first..It gives you more weight in the wars with your soon to be Mother in law. Classic Soap. Great job writers. A nit pick here, when I said "push the envelope".......this isn't the love scene I was referring to but its true i did not specify....tsk tsk....

Its Eric vs Stephanie As the new battles wage on to see which design house will win out in the end......Eric is definitely going to need that martini...

And finally, Martha Byrne. I watched Martha's show and did a breakdown of her dialogue....not bad at all, I am looking forward to seeing more of what she comes up with especially the writing for Susan Flannery....that right there is the gem of everything. You nail that, and you can nail it all....Keep the characters true to themselves, and you can never go wrong with the storyline.Good writers feel the characters and let them make the decisions. Thats the way it was in the beginning so shall it be true always.

To the Brooke/Ridge brigade here......Your supercouple is being challenged with some of the most amazing dialogue I have seen in years. No matter how many want your pairing to fail, I feel the writers want to see it succeed because of the effort to put out such incredible dialogue..ups and down occur...the message stays the same....Savor it.

So I am seeing great storytelling here...not what this show has seen in decades in my honest opinion. the feel of it is maturing for the greater good, and the story arcs have a bonafide direction....I see bountiful fruit being spread all throughout....where one story looks like its about to end...another one takes its place....Damned if you do and Damned if you don't writers?

I say Do.....Continue to Build it and they will come.

I Propose a Challenge....

2009-04-08T10:45:00.000-07:00

I didn't know how to start this entry because of the positive feedback I received over the first. I had no idea this would catch on so quickly! But I am thrilled! Its great It means many viewers are tired of the same angry, backbiting commentray that only rile up bases to pick arguemnts over one another and then take it out on the Actors; writers; the show in general..........So let's try to fix this approach after years of seeing its negative impact?

Trying, to here.....

So, I just wanted to answer a few comments I received which I found to be funny.

1) "Do you have any stylish tips for Spring when it comes to nail care and color?"

A: Yes! Nudes and neutrals are in for this spring.....Going back to beiges, shell pinks.....the shape of nails is ROUND and of course...Soft pinks, high lip gloss and soft eye shadows...We just did a photo Shoot for the Travel Channel this past week and this is what we used......As for my French manicure look...ladies THIS WORKS I kid you not.....

Two coats of protien base first, followed by a sheer tone of pink I prefer Madamoiselle or Picket fences by Essie followed by Blanc or Marshamallow for the wihite. Now, this is the trick. Do the white LAST not first. I have seen so many places paint the white on first without even base WTH is that? Thats the first way to dehydrate the nailplate and cause more damage in the process. If you polish the white line last, it seals down your polish for at least six to ten days. And Use Seche Vite for the top coat and seal the edges... I have one client who lives in San Diego {her Father in law owns the San Diego Chargers yes I had to put that in there because I promised her I would mention her....now that I have....} and she comes up all the time just so I can do this.

2) How long have you been watching Bold, and how did you become interested in Soaps?

A: I have been watching The Bold And The Beautiful since 1987...I would watch it when Bo and Hope left Days.....Santa Barbara was one of my favorite soaps of all time all because of what I called them The "Brain Trust..." This writing team was so solid back then they won emmy after emmy and created some of the most wonderful characters Daytime had to offer. But what I was attracted to the most, was how they unfolded the longterm storylines and how they pinpointed on everything from beginning to end......Those writers were, Charles Pratt Jr, {AMC HW} Robert H Guza Jr, {GH} Patrick Mulcahey, {B&B} Meg Bennett, {ex GH and B&B Married to Bob Guza} Courtney Simon, {ex Dr. Michaels ATWT} Gary Tomlin {ex OLTL Days} Paul Rauch {Y&R} Frank Salisbury{Where the heck is he yall?LOL} Michael Minnis {B&BI am guessing but I believe Michael was there too.....i will check back on this] and the Wonderful, Late Anne Howard Bailey...She will be truly missed. She could churn out stories with ease.

The common thread is that all of these writers have worked together over the years and have moved on to become HW's of other shows. The thing is, many I think, got caught up in the egoes......which is truly depressing because you NEED ALL of your writing team to work it together and One vision which means, everyone including your audience agrees on......I fail to see where Guza has learned this...but the one thing I do give him credit for is how he is able to get the demos up....he goes for the dark side of things and cut the knife deeply......but you also need light hearted banter to even out the heavy overload which brings the viewership down and well makes them bored..GH needs to have some happiness .Carly and Jax pregnancy is a start. so hopefully that answers it.....

There's a reason why many start watching Daytime soaps, not just because out of habit or because they have nothing better to do. Many fall in love with the creative imagination that keeps our real daily lives light hearted and seperated from the problems that plague us. Such as, the Economy "The Economy The Economy", which is taking its toll on Television as I mentioned in the last column, and everywhere even here in Las vegas our tourism is down, but not out..we are still maintaining but many people I have been friends with over the years have lost their jobs on the strip because we are over staffed....Ceasar's thinking about Chapter 11? its a reality folks. California is sending out IOU's instead of tax returns......sounds like Great Depression days....I can recall living in the Bay Area back in the eighties thats the first time I saw a homelss family living out of a shopping cart....and when I came to Vegas, I saw a small population where crime was never an issue. It was culture shock....

People need outlets to feel good instead of angry all the time- especially when it has to do with trvial entertainment......I simply cannot understand why Network Know It All's fail to realize your writers are WHAT keep viewers at home? and thats going to happen a whole lot more now because with less jobs; downsizing, people are going to want to watch things that make them HAPPY......Reality shows over gossip and trash media isn't going to do it eventually burn out hits.....but creative writing? Always thrives.

But there's a way...... there's always a way.... You just have to want it badly enough to make it happen.....Thus is why I got involved in this to begin with....I became tired of Daytime Big Wigs using their audience as a play thing and writing whatever they could to shock the viewer.....IMO this was done for years out of fear of the cyberworld finding out about storylines in advance- and that could be true to say because, I would know. I used to be an insider and let me tell ya, its a thankless job- no glorification in it what-so ever......One minute you are someone's best friend because you make them feel better but then you have pissed off the establishment.. next you are on their hit list to be proven wrong......and thats the trap I think many fall into. I know I fell into it repeatedly....FYI there are no leaks anymore!!!!!!!!! The leaks are done by the shows itself! this is no joke here people! If you want to know whats going to happen, you just have to watch.LOL! Because there are spoilers out there to trip you up and I think thats a good thing now. I know many including Guza and Co and even Bell himself does not take kindly to others leaking storyline info in fact I have heard he detests it and theres a bonafide reason for that....They want to surprise the audience for many many reasons...for sweeps for the element of watching things unfold and to have CREATIVE CONTROL over the shows...so I think in the past we had a bit of a war going on with the insiders vs the showrunners.....Wasn't personal, yall....we all have the same goal here:)))) To fix Daytime and keep it going for the next several decades....

Truth is, those insiders would leak info to prevent the culmination of BAD storytelling. The trust factor that was established years ago between Audience and EP/HW was tarnished because of always being let down; No payoffs were shown...heck not even a true reason to follow the story because it was about SHOCK first. But I cannot give that to Brad bell here, because that lies with Jill Phelps just as much.....

And it killed many GOOD stories. IMO GL being cancelled now, shoot it was on death's door after the storylines of 1995.......Lucy's rape, the Death Of Maureen; Murder of Nadine; the destruction of Frank and Eleni, and oh yes the one GOOD thing that came out of that GL debacle was the late Michael Zaslow.....he was spared even though CBS didn't give him the respect he deserved..Blake/Ross/Holly story.and the Casting of Ron Raines with Kim Zimmer those were good steps, but the overall message was dark darker darkest pain...bloody, anguish, self destruction and plot driven format.....so yes, there are a lot of mitigating factors to why Daytime plummeted.....and writing was part of it; power plays with writing characters into heavy corners to get them off the show was another....So that is why I got involved in this I wanted to change Daytime and bring the power back to the viewing audience and REPAIR the marriage between Writers and the fans.

So let's see if we can try to accomplish this....because I think, this opportunity had tremendous promise here....once TRUST is being established again, its up to the viewers to suck it up and admit, "okay this was good...Okay this was pretty awesome...Ok but I don't know if I can take that step i have been so disappointed so many times.....what if they make it like it used to be? I can't trust....Can't can't cant'.....its better to be angry and on guard...."

No actually viewers its not and let me tell you why...Everything you have been asking for, you have been receiving you just simply are not USED to the GOOD SHOCK......its grand it really and truly is. I means this HW/EP has been listening to your opinions, your rants and your discussions. I would even have to go out on a limb here to say he has visited many message boards.....Does Guza do that? IMO I think he better start instead of not caring what viewers think....its a HUGE mistake...... Viewers think about it.....

YOU HAVE NOTHING LEFT TO HATE..............

There isn't self destructive dialogue being put in place to manipulate your way of thinking instead they are giving the history lesson for you to accept the direction and the characters how they have always been written......What we perceive is not always what is....and when you finally see it and the beauty that transforms, its pretty much an acknowledgement they care about your favorite characters. The HW's job {Bell and Alden} is to protect their Alter egoes. every single one of them. This never used to be the case in the past.....but its a reality now, and its a gorgeous one. I will start with the Amazing, breakdown of Mr Adam Dusevoir from April 'st show.....

Adam Adam Adam....And you produce too? Amazing I feel brad bell had a hand in this one with story placement. Bradley, you are impressing me, this is amazing and what you are doing for Susan Flannery here, is restoring my true belief that Characters that have made an impact on Daytime CAN be ushered out with grace and success.......Another gold Star I give to you because Guza simply does not treat his vets and icons in the same manner. How depressing. But let's get back to the fabulous words of wisdom and how we usher out..........

And into a whole new Generation.......with using Stephanie as the catalyst to launch it....

Donna: Well, guess what, Stephanie? He is not your problem anymore. So why don't you be a good little ex-wife and go? I'll take care of him.

Stephanie: You know, your family has just about destroyed everything that I ever held dear to me. (Sighs) I built this company-- (Laughs) and created an image that was well thought of all over the world. But that's gone. The class, the style, the elegance--it's all gone. And you are so foolish, Eric, if you don't understand that the clientele is going to go, too. You know what? I'm too old and too tired for this. I can't take this anymore. (Sighs)

Eric: You know, you talk about this as if you were the sole owner of this company, the sole member of this family, as if I were some kind of accessory that just came along with everything.

Ah yes lets have another History lesson and learn how all of this came about. I truly am impressed with how Adam Dusevoir wrote these scenes and the stellar , solid performances from John and Susan... Stephanie and Eric are tired......

That is key here....

And this here at the very end was just remarkable.

Eric: This is my company, Stephanie. You've never been satisfied being a partner in this company any more than you were satisfied being a partner in our marriage. The only thing you really know how to do is control. What, you say you're too old and too tired for all of this? Well, so am I. I had a heart attack last year. It's not clear to me exactly how much time I have left in my life, but you can be damn sure I'm not gonna spend it fighting with you.

Stephanie: Well, if I--

Eric: You're fired!

Oh yes, he is. The final hurrah of generation ONE has began and its to usher in Generation 3 of this show. Bell you are on the right track here....LOL!!!!! fabulous!

And finally this.....

Stephanie: Eric, um, let's just make this a clean break. It'd be a lot easier for me, okay? I really don't want to compromise my self respect any more than I already have, but I also want you to understand I don't wish you ill. I truly--I truly hope you'll be happy. I think you're also going to regret this day, because I think Forrester has lost something important. And I don't think the company's ever going to be the same again, but that's your problem now. I have my own. My-- (Sighs) work here has come to an end. But I'm not at the end of the road yet.

No our lovely Susan is still on for a bit as Stephanie and she is kicking it and taking names her latest scenes have just been perfection! From this Episode, April 1, to April 2nd where Miss Tracey Ann Kelley brought the "end of an era" theme into the fractured halls of FC while Stephanie stood forlorn on the rocks at Marina Del Rey looking back at how young she and Eric were and the start of Forrester Creations...Susuan didn't have to say anything her facial expressions just had you glued to your seat feeling the emotional pain and desperation in Stephanie's eyes....After fifty years....

What is she supposed to do now? It was beautiful to watch She is truly one of the best stage actresses I have ever seen and that "stage four" performance is what I love to see! Take it to the edge and just keep looking down and see how far the audience reacts...THAT's how you do drama.. thats how the Gotcha moment is provided! In fact, I miss these exceptional monologues its long over due here in soaps to see the characters mired in their own deep thoughts and reflection of themselves......its what brings the marriage between writer.....and audience culminated with the bride/groom IE: actors to your screen.. and why you fall in love in the first place!

Susan is eventually going....until she does..RELISH IN IT.

I am thinking about attending Fan event In August. I went to the GH one years back at the Sportsman's lodge, in the hopes of getting to chat with the actors to find out story direction {thats why us insiders got involved here} but now, I don't need to find out info about story direction, I am happy with the way it is going. All I have ever asked for years is for character driven stroytelling to return to Daytime....With Bell and Writing team making this a reality, I am shooting up here for something bigger........

I have been informed by some that what I am doing is helping the industry, not hurting it. soooooooo This "Glorified Maniscurist" {very cute Patrick you need to come down from the mountain here!} wants an INTERVIEW.......

With you Brad. You see, I think its time we meet, and if you are going to be at Fan event in August, well, I think this could be a good thing again for the show.....it would continue to establish trust with the viewers and demonstrate that yes you do CARE about your viewing audience....So if I come to LA......its to interview You and prove to the Bold Viewership and others, you're going to set an even high standard with daytime.....So how bout it? You can always drop a note in the dialogue someplace as you know, I like to pay attention to detail......here...

And with the writers. I think its a mistake to just showcase the actors for Fan Event {although dual events with couples or pairings IMO brings a whole load of viewers to the show even cross over viewers from other soaps sampling because the internet viewers are very savvy people. They make it a point to know who writes what because then it gives an incentive to tune in? Such as for me, I love Patrick Mulcahey and have followed his writing for decades.....but I also love Jack Smith because of what he represents for this show......HISTORY......then you have Tracey Ann Kelley who has been writing Brooke and Ridge for years...some of her dialogue has been bunred in the brains of many viewers.....Elizabeth Snyder, Rex Best, Michael Minnis, Shannon Bradley who wrote compelling dialogue with Stephanie and Rick..."you little pissant!" I mean its just the fact that the writing team gets no PROPS........Its time they did....and I would like the trend to continue....So, how bout it? I'll let you think about this one for a bit then I will be looking for an answer....Don't worry I don't bite....not anymoreLOL!!!!

Recognition for the writing team is what helps keep everything going.....Without your writing team, your show and characters are nothing but a blank page. I would like to bring that MYTH to an end here....let me know what you think, I am inclined to say this is up to you.:)))

The Goddess Speaks!

2009-04-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

Well this is new territory here!

Usually I just break down the dialogue in the transcripts...but I've decided to go a little further here....You know, I never even knew we had this feature.. here on the House of Bridge. I'm usually the "copy and paste" kinda gal due to having absolutely no intelligence when it comes to electronics or even knowing how to plug in a cord...I just want it all working so when I push send, it works...So much for my fantasy...perhaps one day I can have an assistant besides my fourteen year old teach me the mechanics of this. Now that I have that out of the way, let's get on with it, shall we?

Thanks a bunch to Norrth, Marone Macaroni and others for helping me get started with this...So......Over the years I've noticed this "trend" of soap columnists continuing to speak out on what is wrong with the shows.....instead of what is being done to fix them. I've decided to take this approach with this blog because I feel the writing team at The B&B are doing their very best to keep viewers entertained...and providing a history lesson...Let's take it back to basics I always say when you want to introduce new viewers and old, to how its written.....

..Is it possible Daytime could save Primetime? I was having this discussion with a client of mine this week who has worked at NBC for over 22 years....and she had nothing nice to say about the Golden Peacock...seems because of this "economy" and the need for reality shows, the demand for creative writing is shrinking. Network "know it alls" seem to think placing Jay Leno on five days a week will susatain the ratings....instead of letting GOOD quality programming be given the opportunity...No wonder the good shows are flocking to cable.....such as we are seeing with NBC barely giving life to Days of Our Lives.. A show that just may be ending its final run this year.

What happens to Daytime when the Networks are no longer supporting the beautiful imaginations of the writers just because it COSTS TOO MUCH?? Do Showrunners have to find new outlets to keep Networks "interested?" Such as selling the entire product yet again? Are Daytime soaps a re-marketable business? One could say, its the reason why many like myself wanted to write and create something a viewer can laugh, cry, become furious and ah yes and get passionate over about direction.....not to tease the viewer in a malicious way as the past has shown us, but to keep the viewer on the edge of their seats....Can it be done again?

Extremely possible...Our conversation was a good and healthy one, I do hope for her sake that she gets what she wants because to work for a company for so many years and see one too many employees get the boot all because the Network believes they can cut back because "Realism is cheaper", well I guess that leaves it up to Daytime, doesn't it?

Brad Bell, this is for you. Now that CBS has pulled the plug on Guiding Light, its up to you and Mother show Y&R to restore the creative aspect in Daytime..because Guza and Company over at ABC do not seem to be listening to their overall audience....especially Frons himself. Ay yi yi yi some things never change, do they? Can egoes be checked at the door because when it comes to the survival of Daytime, it seems too many have their own ideas on how to fix this problem..If Primetime is slowly being etched out for sensationalism, then its back to basics for Daytime to woo the viewers of new and old with Romance, high end dramatics, cliff hangers, and of course suspense....Will The Bold be going to an hour instead of a half format? with this economy and the cutting back of costs with the licensing fees, one has to wonder if even that is a probability....

I have to say I am impressed with how Bell and his writing team are taking the initiative to woo back its viewers..of today and old..and the formula, In my honest and humble opinion is grand....The new focus on Generation 3,[Rick/Steffy/Bridget/Owen/Thomas] and the placement of the senior characters..[Stephanie/Eric/Ridge/Brooke/Taylor/Nick]..you can honestly say the man does have a plannnn.With the re-introduction of the Spencer Dynasty coming at the end of this Month and Joanna Johnson's return, the rich history is being revisited and explored for the entire cast....

I wasn't sure about Don Diamont joining Bold at first, but after reading up in the articles and using my own brain here, I can see how this could work out for the show.....Bill Spencer Sr played by the Amazing Jim Storm, is surely going to be missed but as things demonstrate for us, time marches on....and a new generation of Spencers is born....

I am intrigued to see where this goes, especially if History tells us anything, Bill Sr, despised Donna Logan for embarrassing him with sending nude photographs of the Wealthy Spencer to Stud magazine....has this been forgotten? keep in mid Rocco is back and he was in the very mix of this... Now Donna is married to Eric Forrester; Bill Spencer's best friend Stephanie has been humiliated one too many times to count and is moving over to the competitive uprising jackie M fashion house.....is a wake up call coming?

Delish.

Let's chit chat about Rick and Steffy. I've seen even on the House of Bridge, many furious, upset, angry, confused as to why Brad bell would think pairing up Rick Forrester, Brooke Logan's son with Eric Forrester Ridge's Forrester's {Marone} daughter could ever be considered such a marvelous idea? I do. And I will tell you why......This pairing, gives the writing team an opportunity to divulge into the past.....and understand why Rick Forrester despises Ridge so much....one clear answer: he left him and his Sister Bridget and their beloved Mother one too many times......in a way, this is Ridge getting a taste of his own medicine...and a history lesson to boot..Not even to mention the overall dyanamic of having Brooke's child and Ridge's child being head over heels in love with the saga looming over their heads on how dark and treacherous this love story can come about. Its twisted but not that twisted for this Headwriter......in fact its classic soap....My only gripe is as much as I adore Kyle Lowder as Rick Forrester, carrying this show for three months consecutively is begining to wear out; new traction needs to be shown and the secondary story needs to be placed in.....How much pain did Ridge cause when he chose Thomas over Brooke and her children?......Now with Thomas being discovered as one having serious "mental issues", just how far will the writing team go into proving Rick's choices and Ridge's, may come back to haunt them?

I am loving the intrigue.:)))

The Rock Solid Brooke and Ridge.......After twenty two years, many marriages and babies to other people; after many ups and downs; triangles.....controversial storylines....Brooke and Ridge are being written to have issues, but have learned to deal with them in the adult manner. How refreshing is this? I for one, never in my wildest dreams believed Brad Bell would finally demonstrate the courage and inspiration to write for a married couple.......especially one who never gets to experience marriage for more than five minutes! A refreshing change to see....and this change has been present since back In November sweeps........

I feel the writing has kicked up several notches to the point where viewers are left scrambling...

"What am I supposed to hate now? You've mixed the whole thing up....."

Which is a good thing. Keep it going Bell.

And finally I have to comment on the main reason why I came back to watching soaps after sadly giving them up back in 2005........The "Light and Clarity" moment on Nick's Boat with Brooke and Nick declaring their feelings for one another while daughter Bridget was carrying Nick's child, was just the incentive I needed to let go of ever believing Daytime was going to stop attacking its viewership...In 2007, the reversal of the Sydney Bridge Location....the destruction of Nick and Taylor's romance..and just losing interest period....Stephanie being inadvertently responsible for Brooke's rape was just one more reason to let go of a show that I knew had such promise....

Until Owen came along.........

Ah Yes. The charismatic Brandon Beemer hired on to become the NEW kid on the block, Owen Knight, a man who was brought on to reunite Donna with her lost lost son, Marcus.....now who pre tell is responsible for that, I ask? After being treated to a such a cute peekaboo scene in July where Owen meets Eric Forester at Bridget and Nick's Pool Engagement Party last July, we see the camera flash to the Adorable Ashley Jones where she looks for a moment into the camera in the scene with Eric thanking Owen and then back to Beemer..

Ingenius.

I was intrigued again....I finally had a reason to go to the message boards and shout from the rooftops......."Owen is Bridget's" and why?Because the Bridget character deserves to be HAPPY and have a male lead who loves and desires her above all....

Bridget has been treated with such disdain by the many male characters on this show....its no wonder the character has serious insecurity issues with being abanonded many times over in her lifetime including a reversal of Daddies.......Bridget is still searching for that hero to be in her life who loves and supports only her......

Beautiful Patrick!...I carefully waited to see if something would come about with this.....Owen being tested after so many situations...one with Felicia who offers him 200K to break up Donna and Eric only to then become infatuated with Mr. Forrester's wife....you began to think hmmmmm well let him get it out of his system of course but he should be with Bridget....and then the most amazing thing happened.......Eric in a coma; Bridget discussing how she was not really happy, very insecure in who she is and ah yes in need of a hero......Eric being the man who could fix everything for her......but what has Eric ever fixed? I couldn't understand what the masterful Mulcahey was going for her here....until he wrote this.........

Bridget: Let's see. What else? Um... oh, yeah, that big jacaranda tree that you love so much is blooming. It's amazing. It's stopping traffic. People get out of their cars and take pictures. I remember when I was... (sniffles) when I was little, I used to ask you why that tree would bloom at such an odd time, so late. You said 'cause you-- you planted it at the wrong time. I said, "Like me, huh?" 'Cause I came at the wrong time, a little late in your life. I wasn't blossoming naturally, not naturally beautiful or naturally brilliant like your other kids. But you said when I grow up...

Bridget: I would be just like that tree. (Sniffles) and when I did blossom, there would be nothing like me for miles around.

Almost two months later, things were being set in motion and a chem test came on Sept 24th.....I was thrilled beyond measure...many believed this paring was not happening. many believed I was nuts to even thinking it could work....Ah but a pairing that has strong story background; organic chemistry that cannot be manufactured....wonderful acting rapport and beautiful timing...... it seems we now are in the middle of what could be considered, Bold's New Couple and one that can rival the networks and steal the demos.........something I know Bob Guza detests...and one thing Bell would love nothing more than to rub his nose in it?

Go for it Bell!

Which he seems to be doing. While Miss Jones has signed on for double duty with Doing a guest stint for six episodes on HBO's True Blood, the show has been carefully accomodating her and weaving story in and out for her return.....masterfully done...but I hear she's almost finished and once she's done, she will be back on the set in no time......Have to say I am thoroughly enjoying the unfolding romance of Bridget and Owen and with Mulcahey writing dialogue, its a WIN WIN. If only we could touch on the mysterious Owen Knight's background? Well moi here would like to believe that Owen is the long lost Spencer heir and hidden son of Margo Lynley and Bill Spencer Sr....who were married and estranged years ago.....this would make Owen the half brother of Karen Spencer and the beloved Caroline... We did see Jake Maclaine Margo's brother eyeing Owen a few weeks back....if this were to be the case, history would indeed be repeating itself with Owen taking up as the heir to the Spencer lineage....along with being groomed up in a position of power.........and with ruthless, manipulating Bill Jr coming onto the scene, the balance once again is met....

A hero who lives by his principles is born..

Using your past to tell the future of your show is exactly how soaps have been suriving for decades....Its wonderful to see Bell going forward and repositioning characters and touching on that "historical background" to remind the beaten and bruised viewer.....With new romance, a controversial romance, high stakes and power plays, Bold is getting back to basics and restoring its true direction.........

and its beautifullllllll.....