ACTORS' DIALOGUE: John McCook & Bobbie Eakes Daytime drama The Bold and the
Beautiful co-stars Bobbie Eakes and John McCook have managed to strike a balance pursuing two
passions-singing and acting. Bobbie Eakes made her way to the stage by first appearing in beauty
pageants, being crowned Miss Georgia and eventually named a Top-10 finalist in the Miss America
pageant. With her talent-singing-she moved to Los Angeles to pursue a music career, though acting
soon steered her onto a different course. A small role on Laverne and Shirley began her "legitimate"
performing career. Appearing for the last 10 years on the CBS soap, Eakes will soon release her first
country pop solo album this spring. With a background in theatre, John McCook appeared on The
Young and the Restless for five years prior to moving to The Bold and the Beautiful, of which he is an
original cast member. His numerous television credits include Our House, Moonlighting, L.A. Law,
Amazing Stories, and Murder, She Wrote. His most recent theatre work includes Putting It Together
with Carol Burnett at the Mark Taper Forum. Eakes and McCook have also collaborated on
several songs released in conjunction with the daytime serial. Back Stage West recently sat down
with these two singing soap stars to discuss the gritty side of acting in daytime television and why they
always return to the music. John McCook: I started singing in musical theatre. I studied piano for
many years, as well as singing. I did a lot of choir work, a lot of musical theatre in high school and
beyond that. The musical theatre is where I started. There was a lot of summer stock. I got out of high
school in 1962, and at that time in California there were quite a few summer stock theatres. That was
my "college." I realized theatre is really where I wanted to go. That's where I went, and it's where I go
back to. Bobbie Eakes: Me too. Music came first for me, musical theatre. I started doing high
school productions, and then started singing in my first band when I was 16. Then I moved down here
to pursue a record deal, and the acting came later. I don't know how you did Putting it Together.
That's strenuous. John: But that's joy. That's like a necessary shot in the arm. After a few years, it
has to happen or I lose my patience. I forget I'm an actor. Do you ever forget you're an
actor? Bobbie: All the time. John: We sit here and do this stuff; some of it's not inspired, even
though it's demanding every day. I forget that I'm as creative and as full of juice as I am in the
theatre. If I don't do that every two years, then I really lose touch. Bobbie: I feel like I come in
happier, with fresh ideas, when I'm doing something else creative. One feeds the other when I'm
doing my music. People always ask me if I'm tired after doing the show after 10 years, and I'm really
not. Am I supposed to be? John: I think you would be tired if you didn't have the music. That's the
bottom line with any of these jobs. If you don't have anything outside that job-relationship, kids,
church, friends, another part-if your job is your life, then you don't have a life, because your job is not
your life. Bobbie: And the little things that come along with doing a daytime serial probably will
bother you more if that is your entire focus. John: You have to remember that show business is
not your family. You have a family; show business is your job. I remember how, when I was 18 or 19,
I fell in love with everyone I met, and I wanted them to love me, and I depended on them for my
well-being. I see college-age kids do that in many situations. They apply some of the affection that
they had at home to other people, whether it's earned or not. I constantly say, Don't put all of yourself
into it, because show business is going to treat you like shit sometimes. If your whole life is in there,
it's going to hurt you so badly that you won't be able to recover from it. But if you retain some of
yourself and the people you love outside of it, then when show business hurts you it won't kill
you. Bobbie: That's what's so nice about doing a soap, too. Because you can have a regular
normal life, relatively speaking, as an actor. You're not going off three months at a time doing a
movie. I feel fortunate because of that. This was the first soap I read for. I really wasn't pursuing a
career as a soap actress. But I was acting, and I was looking for work. My agent said, "You wanna
read for a soap?" I said, "Why not?" I was very lucky, and I got the part. John: Why not, indeed?
There are these actors in town who say, I will not read for a soap, or I will never do a
soap. Bobbie: A lot of people, when they first come to town, say that too. Then talk to them three,
five, 10 years later, and it'll probably be a different story-or they've moved back home
even. John: It's work. If you're going to be an actor, and if you sing or if you used to be a dancer
or whatever, you have to be willing to do commercials, a stupid voice-over, a radio commercial that
doesn't make any sense. You have to be willing to do all of this, because that's who you are. So when
a soap comes up, some young actors have managers and agents who say, "No, we don't want you on
a soap, because then you're not available during pilot season." And you wanna go, "Yeah, but while
I'm waiting around I could be learning something." To get on a soap is not the end of the
world. When I was first on a soap, I learned more. Because I would see the show two weeks later
on the air and I would see myself doing the most inappropriate stuff. You learn so much more from
seeing your mistakes, from seeing yourself performing badly, than you do when you do a good
scene. Bobbie: You really have to trust and rely on the directors and the producers. John:
When you walk on that set, whether it's a film or television, whatever, if you're not ready, ain't nobody
gonna help you. You have to go out there, believe in the choices you've made, believe in the actor
with whom you're working. We don't get tons of input at rehearsal. If you and your scene partner don't
create some excitement in this stuff today, it isn't gonna happen, because [the directors] are busy.
They're shooting the show. It's not their fault, it's just the way things are. And if you have an inspired
producer or an inspired director, that's gravy. Nobody's going to give it to you. Bobbie: They're not
going to try to pull it out of you John: When an actor comes on who has some intelligence and
innate talent, you can see them get it. You can see them be bad the first day, and still bad the next
day, and within two or three weeks they go, Oh, I get it. You can see it happen to them. By
Behnoosh Khalili
Bold And The Beautiful 3000th Episode: Chat Transcript
SoapCity_Rose: Hello to all early chatters! We're here at the set of "The Bold and the
Beautiful" for the celebration of their 3000th episode! I'm here with SoapCity Joseph,
SoapCity Betsy, SoapCity Leslie, and SoapCity Michael, and of course all of you! Did you
know that B&B airs in over 100 countries around the world? Any international B&B fans with
us here tonight? Let's make some noise! While you're waiting, you can go to
www.soapcity.com and check out our special B&B mini-site. I'm looking at the guest list right
now, and there are tv crews here from Finland, the Netherlands, Israel, Italy... and that's just
for starters. And, of course, the stars are here, too. We'll be chatting with John McCook (Eric)
first, followed by Bobbie Eakes (Macy) Looks like Winsor Harmon (Thorne) will be up after
that. Hey, they're playing the theme music... I think I hear people!
SoapCity_Leslie: Hey soap city fans, we're live at the Bold and Beautiful 3000 party!
SoapCity_Rose: The cast is starting to filter in.... John McCook's headed this way!
SoapCity_Leslie: Tonight we have chats scheduled with your favs and mine, John McCook,
Bobbie Eakes, Winsor Harmon, Tracey Bregman and the list continues... A star-filled event
filled with Bold And Beautiful people!
SoapCity_Rose: John McCook is admiring the SoapCity setup. I've gotta say, it's impressive.
Corbin's whipped up a great setup tonight. Okay, let's chat with JohnMcCook!
John: Welcome to you all. We're on Stage 31 at Television City in Hollywood celebrating
3000 episodes of "The Bold and the Beautiful". We've been here all afternoon doing
international press, soap opera press. Pretty cool deal. 12 years. I was here the first day so I
have a really nice dressing room
Marty2634 asks: Hello John, Did you always want to become an actor?
John: Yes, since I was 11 years old, when I first saw Peter Pan. I saw the musical Peter Pan,
with Mary Martin and Cyril Richard, and I decided I would be one of them when I grew up.
I've almost decided. Because I played piano and could sing -- I saw those people singing and
acting on stage and it was magic and pretend and I was lost to being an actor and I still am
Sunbeam198 asks: HI John, what is the difference in working on B/B and Y/R?
John: There are a bunch of differences. Some of them are technical. When I was on Y&R it
was a long time ago and the show was shot live on tape, so there was no postproduction. None
are live any more. Everything has the benefit of editing, music, sweeting, etc. So that's
differrent. Also the thing that feels the same is this is still a half hour show as Y&R was.
There's only 14 actors here at any given time
MINDYNN asks: Will Eric & Lauren ever get married
John: I don't know. I think that would be wonderful. I like what she does for Eric. On the
other hand, quite seriously, Brad said 6 months ago when coming into this storyline with Rick
and Amber that they were going to back up on Eric and Lauren for a while, because how can
Eric be giving Rick such responsible advice about premarital sex and be romping off with
Lauren. Their relationship is still really strong and may lead to that one of these days
Marty2634 asks: Hello John, Why should someone watch "The Bold and The Beautiful"
if they've never seen this soap before?
John: If you've never seen the show before, don't start watching, because you won't be able to
resist. It's fast, it's painted in broad strokes, it's very enteratining, full of beautiful and talented
people, with great storytelling and wonderful production values
Sunbeam198 asks: John, what was it like when you did the shows in Milan?
John: We had a wonderful time there. The Villa DÉste, the huge estate which is now a hotel,
was open to us and those are the hgrounds we used and we were staying there, at this 5 star
hotel at the foot of the Alps on a beautiful lake. 20 minutes from Switzerland, surrounded by
Italian and Swiss and German fans who were so thrilled to see us. It was qutie remarkable. It
required a lot of security, because those people wanted to be in the show with us! As a
professional shoot, it was like making a movie - we had production personnel from Venice
who had just been working in Sardinia with George Lucas. They'd been on the "Star Wars"
prequel, and then they worked with us. We were well taken care of
Sunbeam198 asks: Hi John, What are you hobbies out side of work?
John: I hesitate to use the word hobbies... I have 3 kids at home, 17, 15 and 8, so my time I'm
not on the show I'm being a dad and a husband. These kids are in high school, basketball, a lot
of homework and social angst, and the 8 year old wants eveyrone's attention. I don't have
spare time -- I spend more time at home than here
Sunbeam198 asks: John, how does your wife and kids handle your fame?
John: My kids don't care about it, they're busy. My wife handles the success and fame very
well because she's an actress. She was on Battlestar Galactica in the 70s. She understands what
this is about, all the press and all of the hoopla that surrounds it. She takes it with a grain of
salt
mancob asks: to John McCook, which of the leading ladies have you enjoyed working
with most?
John: Isn't any of your damn business! :) I love working with Susan Flannery, who plays
Stephanie. She's my partner in the emotional investment we make in our children. I loved
working with Katherine Kelly Lang. I fell in love with her every day. I love Tracey Bregman,
she's full of energy and with and humor. Kimberlin Brown made it so interesting for Eric to try
to justify being involved with her. They're all good
karina_17aout1996 asks: Hi John!I just wanted to know what was your best scene that
you had to play with Brooke?
John: I love the scene when she gave birth to Eric Jr. in Paris and ran away from Eric Sr to do
that, and Eric found out and went there. I thought it was sweet. My favorite was when they
got married in Palm Springs and lifted off in a balloon and rode horses across to an oasis...
Pretty cool. She rides a horse much better than I do. We had to run along the road on the
horses. Katherine knows how to do that. She was running along, and I was behind screaming
like a woman. Fortunately we didn't put that on the air.
janeeb8965 asks: John, would you like to see Eric involved with Sally again?
John: Oh, I think that's wonderful, great fun. I've loved working with Darlene evey time. I
think what's going to happen now that Sally's old love is back, Sally and her old husband will
be allied together against the Forresters, and I think Sally will be a much more dangerous
adversary. There's a great cake here!
I_Love_New_Orleans asks: Who will Amber's baby's father turn out to be?
John: We're all speculating here. We're fans here like eveyone else -- who's the father, how
many babies, what's it going to be like... that's when we're fans, picking up the scripts and
reading them. That's when we're fans of the story. I'm going to go get some of that cake. My
family is coming soon. Thanks for coming online to talk to us and you can come any day and
talk to each other. We appreciate that! Bye.
SoapCity_Rose: Bye John! Thanks! Hey, folks, Winsor Harmon is here, with his kid. His
daughter is SUCH a cutie!
SoapCity_Leslie: Winsor is around the corner with his adorable child!
Winsor: Hi and welcome.
SoapCity_Leslie: Winsor's child says "Da Da"
Winsor: Join us on the hallmoark of or 3000th episode. Glad you could be a part of it
Countrybumpkin69 asks: Winsor, were you disappointed when your relationship with
taylor didn't evolve to anything more?
Winsor: Yes, I would say so. I would have liked to have seen a more heated battle
because now he's a different character and battles Ridge, they have this thing between them
that would have been nice to explore even further.
sept_dawn asks: Was it tough coming in to replace the old Thorne?
Winsor: Yes, very tough. It's always difficult to replace another actor, to fill their shoes,
especially one that's been playing the role for 7 years
Countrybumpkin69 asks: What has been your best experience since joining the
B&B?
Winsor: I think being a part of something as monumental as this show. There's been so many
experiences. Different scenes, being able to travel to Italy, represent the #1 show in the
world
robliz99 asks: Hi Winsor! How long have you been acting?
Winsor: Only about 5 years
bdlyman asks: Will there be a new love interest for Thorne soon? I hope so they are
wasting his talen now!
Winsor: That's what we hear, but I don't know. There's talk about several different people
already on the show, or maybe bringing someone else on
fort_louise asks: do you think they should pair brooke with thorne
Winsor: That has come up. I would love to work with Katherine. It would be real fun and
drive a nail through Ridge's heart, which would be exciting
SoapCity_Leslie: I think Winsor's child wants her daddy all to herself!
Countrybumpkin69 asks: What would you like to have thorne's next big storyline
involve?
Winsor: I think I'd like to deal wiht Macy's father, maybe move on to Brooke then.
jkolbinger asks: were you scared when you started B&B?
Winsor: No. Absolutely not.
QTCron asks: Windsor, Do you enjoy singing on the show?
Winsor: I don't sing on the show. It's something I talked about and decided Thorne wouldn't
do that. We're going to take that aspect away form the character as we've added new sides and
aspects.
PetitePenny98 asks: What character do you enjoy working with the most?
Winsor: That's hard to say. I love working with everyone. I'd like to see me and Stephanie get
into it a little more, I love working with Susan Flannery.
robliz99 asks: What was your first acting job?
Winsor: I think my first show was All My Children. Thank you very much. It's been an absulte
pleasure. Stay tuned because the ride is only going to get wilder.
SoapCity_Leslie: Bobbie Eakes is here and Darlene Conly has joined her
SoapCity_Rose: take a look at your RealPlayer screen -- it's Macy and Sally! Darlene has a
lovely magazine with her.
Bobbie: Welcome to the fans! It's great to be here. 3000 episodes.
Darlene: Indeed, welcome from Sally and Macy for the 3000th episode of B & B
Bobbie: I've never done anything 3000 times.
Darlene: well i'm a bit older than you are, lol
Bobbie: Well, LOL on that.
WeLoveBOBBIE asks: To Bobbie Eakes: Did you ever pull any practical jokes on one of
your castmates??
Bobbie: This must be someone who knows me. Somebody that knows me well... I like to joke
around with Schae Harrison, we do little things. One of us will come into work with no
makeup, nothing rehearsed, the other will say they've changed the schedule, you're on in 10
minutes. We have fun, every day
DanemarkB asks: sally will you ever become friendly with stephanie again
Darlene: Basically,think about it, Sally and Stephanie are friendly, because let's face it, who
else would really go nose to nose with either one of them? These are a couple of very tough
dames and I know Sally enjoys knocking on her door when Stephanie opens the door and goes
aaaaahhhh. And I think this is there friendship and this is the basis of it, Sally makes Stephanie
silly
WeLoveEakes asks: To Bobbie: Is it just rumours or are you already working on a new
CD?
Bobbie: I finished it. I recorded the CD in Nashville last year, finished it in the fall. It's been
released in the Netherlands and will be out in the US in 6-8 weeks. We've also got plans for
Scandinavia
Sunbeam198 asks: Darlene, do you have any pets?
Darlene: I'm always on the lookout. No darling, I raised three boys, had dogs, cats, animals of
every description all over my house most of my life. I have no pets now for obvious resasons. I
enjoy everybody else's pets
misha98_07940 asks: Do Macy and Taylor share the same stylist? ( they look alike
suddenly)
Bobbie: Thank you very much! I like to be compared to someone as beautiful as her
Darlene: She is so beautiful!
Bobbie: Thank you Mommy.
Darlene: It's true it's true!
Bobbie: I looked at your poster and thought it was me, in the eyes
Darlene: It was me
Bobbie: No, we dont have the same stylist. I hardly see her in the studio because we're usually
not in at the same time. Must be a coincidence
Macy_4ever asks: Bobbie, is it true that you will give concerts in Scandinavia this
summer?
Bobbie: Yes, that is true. The show may be going over as well, but nonetheless whether the
show goes over or not I'm going to be touring in July
WeLoveBOBBIE asks: Bobbie and Darlene, which of the 3,000 episodes was most
memorable to you?
Bobbie: I mentioned this earlier, I'll never forget Macy lying drunk in an alley with sand crabs
all over her body. Very glamorous. That was the highlight for me
Darlene: I think my little girl is going for an Academey Award. I've said many many times, the
first great Spectra fashion show on the Queen Mary was one of the most funny shows ever and
it will always be
Bobbie: That one was special for me because you locked me and Thorne in the stateroom
Darlene: I locked my daughter in the stateroom
deniseh4 asks: Do you still perform with Jeff Trachta?
Bobbie: When there are offers I do. There's an offer in South Africa we're trying to negotiate.
I haven't for about a year now, but I'm sure something will come up
QTCron asks: Darlene, any chance your character from Y and R will return as your
EVIL TWIN?
Darlene: No, I don't want to do that. Sally has enough sides to her character, if they want me
to have an evil twin let sally have one
LUVJESUSSC asks: Darlene, have you considered changing your appearence as other
soap stars have?
Darlene: No, when you've got it flaunt it! I enjoyed this very very much
Bobbie: I'd like to say thank you to everyone for watching the show that's made us an
international success. I'd like to take the opportunity to thank the rest of the cast, including the
wonderful Darlene Conley. It's been an honor and a privilege
Darlene: Thank you sweetheart
Bobbie: Thank you!
SoapCity_Rose: Darlene Conley and Bobbie Eakes, ladies and gentlemen
SoapCity_Leslie: Darlene is a mega diva. she does know how to flaunt it! the actors are being
summoned to the stage!
SoapCity_Rose: After the presentation, Tracey Bregman (Lauren) will be chatting with us
SoapCity_Leslie: On stage right now, John McCook is addressing the audience. John
introduced Charles Koppelman, president of CBS. Now Bradly Bell is on the stage, he's
written something. The 3,000th episode of B & B is in the can!!! Bradley is thanking the entire
cast, the crew for their dedication. He acknowledges and congratulates them as being some of
the best in the business. The members of the international press are here in addition to the cast
and crew. Bradley is thanking his entire family as well as the cast and crew of B & B. The
applause is overwhelming, can you hear it?. The RealAudio presentation is following the party
and not the numerous chats that will be going on throughout the evening. The cake here is
humongous, its a four piece cake and can you guess what the four pieces consist of? In
celebration of the 3000th episode of B & B.
SoapCity_Rose: So, I get a 0, you get a three... I wonder what Tracey Bregman wants? Let's
find out! Here she is, ladies and gentlemen... Lauren!
PerrylinF asks: When will things heat up for Lauren and Eric again?
Tracey: I wish I knew. If you really like the storyline the best thing you can do is write to Brad
Bell and tell him
Iris555_1998 asks: Tracey, do you like working on B&B better than Y&R? Who are
your favorite actors to work with?
Tracey: I love working on B & B because of the actors. I'd say my favoirtes are John McCook
and Susan Flannery.
Sunbeam198 asks: Tracy, will you do some more singing on the show?
Tracey: I'd like to. It was fun
bdlyman asks: Tracy, what is the biggest difference in Y&R and B&B?
Tracey: Well, strangely enough, when I did the one hour show, I worked less hours. And now
that I'm on the half hour show, I work much longer
DonnaLeeV asks: Tracey, Doug Davidson said he missed you but that Paul didn't miss
Lauren, what do you think?
Tracey: That's very very sweet. I miss working with him, no doubt about it. We had a very
deep connection that made our storylines so much richer, I thought. And he was a hell of a
good time as an actor, so much fun to work with
BBINSEATTLEWA asks: Tracey, this is Patrick in Seattle, how did you like working
with Kimberlin Brown?
Tracey: She was extremely professional and very much into her character. She was a
powerhouse.
DewGirl_96 asks: Tracey: was it nice to have a scene w/ Eric Braeden again?
Tracey: It was so much fun!! So much fun to work with him and someone from y & r. We
really got a chance, although it was a few lines, to just go and do whatever we wanted to
do
radioguy1999 asks: Tracey...What is it like to kiss John McCook?
Tracey: Well he's mister delicious...it's delicious!
select42 asks: Tracey which character do you hate the most?
Tracey: LOL...do I hate? You mean on what show? I don't hate any character....yet!
Crocus32 asks: Hello Tracey, do you think that Brad form Y&R will come over to see
Brooke. That woul be very interesting to see the old flame between the 2 of you?
Tracey: Why would he come see brooke... Why doens't he come see me!
LovesBB asks: Lauren hasn't been on much lately. Is she going to get a better
storyline?
Tracey: I hope so! I don't mean to repeat myself, but write Brad Bell!
latika_2 asks: Tracy, what was the best advice anyone gave you about acting or life in
general?
Tracey: To obviously know your words, that anything can happen and it's never what you
think it is. And that's from Jean Bua. Thank you so much for sending me your questions, I look
forward to playing Lauren for a long time and I hope you enjoy her as much as I have
SoapCity_Rose: Thanks, Tracey! Joseph thinks Tracey's pretty.
SoapCity_Leslie: now i want to rent the concrete jungle! Paul Satterfield is next, you know
him as Pierce! Start sending your questions
SoapCity_Rose: Wow, this is an incredible event. People are schmoozing in about ten
different languages
SoapCity_Leslie: this is pretty amazing, rose! the international press is here! some pretty bold
and beautiful press people if you ask me
SoapCity_Rose: SoapCity Michael's on the RealPlayer now, in the spott4ed shirt, interviewing
mIchael Swan... Now he's going back out into the party. Thanks to everyone who's taking time
out of their evenings to chat with the cast of "The Bold and the Beautiful" Paul Satterfield, aka
Pierce, is here. He's miking up now... okay, let's go!
Paul: Well hello fans and welcome and I'm one of the wonderful cast that we have here at our
3,000th episode of B & B I've been here for about 70 of those episodes I'm fairly new and
would be happy to answer questions
Shazzeam asks: Will Peirce continue his Brooke like behavior or will he pull himself out
of this muck and mire he's fallen into
Paul: How long has Brooke been doing this? This show is about muck and mire -- then you
have no place to pull yourself out from I'd like to think that Pierce pulls himself out of it sooner
or later. How long has Brooke been doing it? That's what makes the triangle, I'd like to think
that possibly Pierce and Brooke could find comfort in each other radioguy1999 asks:
Paul....you were great on Savannah.... What's it like working with all those beautiful
women on B&B?
Paul: Thanks, Savannah was a great show. I don't know if it's airing right now. It boils down
to who you're working with, I've worked with beautiful women I couldn't stand, I won't
mention names but it's all a matter of having trust between actors and trying to achieve a
common goal... it doesn't stink, look at it that way, working with someone who's nice to look
at as opposed to working with a Rottweiler
bajasing asks: Paul, you have a great voice! Have you done a lot of singing?
Paul: I enjoy it, I've been doing it for a while, my wife is even used to it, if she can deal with it,
I'll keep doing it for a while. Not professionally, in fact, working on the show, for Brad Bell to
give me that opportunity is a real blessing. I had resigned to leaving the singing to the
professionals but it's nice to be challenged and try something new and to sing a song that I
wrote myself and it was really me singing, it made it a nice experience, we'll see if we can do
some more in the future
n7reed asks: Do you think your character should be paired with Taylor or Brooke?
What was it like to work with Katherine Kelly Lang and Hunter Tylo?
Paul: Well, I would't want to resign myself to either one, it's nice to have them both, that's
what makes for an interesting story. I couldn't have done the first six months, had they not
been such extraordinary people and overflowing with generosity. You don't find that too much
with actors, when I had my first meeting with Brad Bell, he had his monitors on and he said
you'll beworking with those two.... Taylor and Brooke who just happened to be on screen
together. I said "I'm in" latika_2 asks: Paul, what has been the best part about playing
Pierce
Paul: I've had a lot of good roles in my life and I'm sure they'll be quite a few more, you don't
ever think that this is the last job. Pierce, for me, was a motivational character for me, he sends
his tapes and videos and cds around the world and is possibly doing some good for someone,
that's what you want to hold onto, the favorable character traits and I certainly got good things
out of it
MashNC asks: Paul: Who would you like to see some hot steamy scenes with?
Paul: Hopefully, it's not up to us to decide... who I would like to perform scenes with...who's
willing? I suppose people who are in your storyline are the ones you work with. I look forward
to Katherine Lang's character, she's the only one available
dleonjrleon99 asks: Paul - have you ever done any modeling
Paul: Years ago, not for about ten years. In the 80s, which is sort of how I got started doing
Calvin and Polo and some Versace. I did it for a few years
DewGirl_96 asks: Paul: would you like to do something besides soaps (primetime or
daytime) someday?
Paul: I love television, daytime, primetime. I just finished a movie, called "Duty Dating". It's a
romantic comedy. I didn't have to shave, I had longer hair and got to wear my glasses. I'd like
to do independent films Thanks to everyone, great questions, thanks for making our night
special and we look forward to bringing you new shows of B & B in the future. God bless
you!
SoapCity_Rose: Thanks Paul!! Joseph says he DOES look like Superman. And here's Michael
Swan!
Michael: Hi, I'm Mike Swann, I came dressed for the occasion
SoapCity_Rose: Take a look. Lovely jeans he's wearing. He's Myles Fairchiled/Adam
Alexander
Michael: Hi fans, welcome to the chat, I'm really happy to be here
bajasing asks: Myles, how is it working with Darlene? Does she joke around alot!
Michael: We have the best time, she is a true Irish prankster
dleonjrleon99 asks: Myles - you have great muscles - how often do you work out
Michael: Every day when I can and when I can't every other day
latika_2 asks: Micheal, what has been the best part about playing Myles?
Michael: The Cast that I work with, particularly Bobbie and Sally, and the scenes I've done
with other players, particularly John, have been marvelous and I look forward to all of it
playing out.
Artist2b4u asks: Michael...Is there any love interests in your future on the show?
Michael: Not right now at the moment, but there might be to complicate things, after all it's a
soap, but Myles is dedicated to this family
Sherri_29353 asks: Michael which show do you like working on better B&B or
ATWT
Michael: Once again, I can't draw comparisons. The character on "As the World Turns" is so
different. I loved playing Duncan but this character is really a challenge
Sarupe_99 asks: Is your character going to turn out a little "bad"?
Michael: I think you'll find that Myles/Adam is sincere and going to be a real force in this
Forrester-Spectra banter. I want to thank all the fans for coming tonight. And stay tuned and
look forward to great and moving stories related the Spectra/Forrester clan
SoapCity_Rose: I hear there's a choice of chocolate, marble and vanilla cake out there. Hey,
look, it's Bradley Bell, the executive producer of B&B
Brad: Hi, this is Brad Bell. I'm the head writer and executive produer of B&B. This is the first
itme I've been online in this kind of forum and it's exciting to be here. Any questions you have,
I'd be happy to answer them
Jonas_J asks: Brad, Will your sister ever be on the B&B?
Brad: That is a question I've never heard before! Why not? I don't think we've ever thought of
it, but I think a Cricket crossover is long overdue
WNNZelda asks: Brad, can you tell us what's ahead on B&B?
Brad: Yes. The Brooke-Ridge-Taylor triangle that's been a major part of the show will be
ending in the next couple of months
Iris555_1998 asks: Hi Brad, is Bridget DEFINITELY Eric's child? Or could she still be
Ridge's?
Brad: I think we've proven genetically that Bridget is Eric's child
DewGirl_96 asks: Brad: any plans to extend the show to an hour?
Brad: Not right now. We'd need an opening in the CBS daytime lineup. Whether that would
be "The Price is Right" or "Guiding Light" I don't know. I think it's a matter of time before that
happens
BrookeLogan23 asks: Brad- When are you planning to put Ridge and Brooke back
together?
Brad: Ridge and Brooke... they will have their time, I have a feeling in the future Ridge and
Brooke will find one another, but you'll have to be very patient for that one
dleonjrleon99 asks: Mr. Bell - you are a great writer - how do you get your ideas?
Brad: I learned to write from my father. I studied with him for about 15 years, and he really
taught me how to write drama. I'd have to say that my father's influence has been just about
everything. Also my love for the form
DanemarkB asks: brad what new story lines are coming up
Brad: The storyline that I'm really into right now is Amber's pregnancy. There's a question of
who is the father, either Raymond or Rick, and it seems that story is generating a lot of heat.
Just seconds ago, Jacob Young and Ashley and Adrienne Franz were asking me who the father
is. I'm the only one who knows, and I'm not telling anyone! It will be airing in the U.S. in May
or April.
Sunbeam198 asks: Brad, are you ever going to bring the old thorne back?
Brad: No, I'm very happy with Winsor Harmon in the role. I think we've just begun to explore
Thorne as Winsor is bringing him to us
BBINSEATTLEWA asks: Can you tell me what the hours are on the B&B set Brad?
Brad: We begin taping usually at noon and we're done by 6pm
cozynwarm asks: Brad, where do you get your inspirations for storylines?
Brad: From friends, from news articles I read, but mostly it's just something that comes from
my imagination, applying the techniques my father taught me. I think he's the best in the
business and I'm trying to following his footsteps and develop my own style
Artist2b4u asks: Brad... is Nick on Y & R going to guest star on B & B for the joint
venture?
Brad: We have no plans for Nick to come over. We're thinking of a crossover maybe with
Jack or Victor, but Nick we haven't discussed yet
corbinbell98 asks: How does it make you feel knowing that your Dad is probably the
single most influential person in the History of Daytime Television?
Brad: More than anything I feel fortunate that I've had the opporutnity and the time with him
to study his technique, to learn from him in a way no one else has been able to except maybe
Kay Alden of Y&R and Jack Smith who works on B&B and Y&R. I've been able to have extra
time with my father and really learn his technique
corbinbell98 asks: How big is your writing staff?
Brad: I have 4 writers I work with: Jack Smith in Honolulu, Tracey Kelley in Arizona, Teresa
in Arizona, and Michael in Texas. I'm the only one in California MzBeeHavN asks: Mr.
Bell....why was the incident with James and Taylor NEVER brought up again?
Brad: It may be brought up at some point in the future. As of now, I felt this is something
James would keep secret and Taylor would keep secret. The two of them being the characters
involved would feel this is something that shouldn't have happened but did and it will be their
secret forever WNNZelda asks: Did you ever write for Y&R?
Brad: I wrote on Y&R in 1986 for a year. I was writing an occastional script, and then when
B&B started I moved over to B&B QTCron asks: Brad, why don't you bring Hunter
Tyol's real life husband on the show? I loved him in GL
Brad: We've thought about doing that, and I had a conversation with Michael Tylo last week,
and he said if you need a villain I'ld love to do the job, and I think he'd be great
Iris555_1998 asks: Does your father ever give you any input about storylines on
B&B?
Brad: My dad watches the air shows and he tells me what he does and doesn't like. Often after
the show airs, the phone rings and it'll be my dad with comments and criticism and ideas. The
lines are open. We never plot together formally, but I certanly welcome any comments he may
have. This has been a fun experience for me. Thank you all for the great questions. I hope you
enjoy the next 3000
SoapCity_Rose: hey, Rick and Amber (Adrienne Franz and Jacob Young) are coming in a sec.
Adreinne is in a very interesting coat.
Adrienne: Hi fans!
Adrienne: Welcome to the chat. Adrienne Franz here
Jacob: And Jacob Young, welcome janet_moeslein asks: adrienne frantz-do you see
any similarities between your character and the character of brooke?
Adrienne: Actually yes, there are a lot of similarities because Brooke used to be like Amber is
now. She used to be very from the wrong side of the tracks
Jacob: Of course
SUNFLOWER3_29527 asks: Amber how long have you been acting and what else have
you played in?
Adrienne: I've been acting since I was a little girl. I was kind of hyperactive and my parents
put me in classes instead of Ritalin. Whene I was 16 I moved to New York, started acting, got
Sunset Beach when I was 18, then B&B. I did the movies Speedway Junkie and Jimmy Zip this
summer.
avonmommy asks: Jacob: How old are you, and when did you start acting?
Jacob: I'm 19, I started out at 17
bajasing asks: Adrienne, are you hoping to go back to the singing you were doing in the
show?
Adrienne: I'm doing singing in my personal life still, looking at some different labels. I'm doing
the business aspect of it, but I'll be playing around soon
MzBeeHavN asks: Any new CDs coming out Adrienne?
Adrienne: I'm working on it right now, talking to the record labels
Patticake98_ga asks: Adrienne you wear some very strange clothes. Is that your
idea?
Adrienne: Yes, it's my idea and I don't think they're strange... actually some of the stuff is
wacked out. I don't like the fishnets, personally. That's the only thing that really bugs me. I like
funky crazy things, but fishnets bug me
shefischer asks: Jacob, Would you rather your character end up with Amber or
Kimberly?
Jacob: I don't have a preference at all who I want my character to be with. I guess whatever
happens inthe storyline but we all know that in daytime they can go from woman to
woman
Adrienne: Anything can happen on daytime!
spelridge asks: hey jacob how do you feel portraying a young soon to be father?
Jacob: I feel honeored to portray a father or a father to be, hopefully young kids watching can
learn a valuable lesson from our storyline
Adrienne: Bye fans! thank you for chatting! love you
Jacob: Peace out from CBS in California
Adrienne: Peace! 3000th episode! Woo!
SoapCity_Rose: Thanks, you two!
ADRIANNE FRANTZ (AMBER), ASHLEY CAFAGNA (KIMBERLY) & JUSTIN TORKILDSEN
(RICK) SoapCity-Chat 19 oktober '99
Ashley: Hi everyone! How are you? This is Kimberly.
Justin: Hey this is Justin Torkildsen. How is everybody tonight?
Adrienne: Hey everybody, it's Adrienne!
misha98_07940 asks: Justin-Do you like playing this role or would you have liked an original
one?
Justin: Actually I really like playing this role. The character's been established and its great role to
make my TV debut. He has a lot of substance to him. There's a lot I can grab onto and put my best
foot forward.
manolis_varnassinger asks: Adrienne do you watch the other show of Bell, Young and the
Restless, and what do you think?
Adrienne: Well, I watch it occasionally because I have friends on it and I think that Bill Bell is
absolutely amazing...he's created two wonderful shows...I like y & R but I love B & B.
dreamy_sandman asks: At what age did you receive your first kiss?
Justin: Wow I don't remember! Probably, like... 14 or something like that.
Ashley: I was 14.
Adrienne: Is this when you initiated a kiss or did somebody else kisses you? I got in trouble in
kindergarten for going around kissing the boys. I was five.
roxygrl_1986_13 asks: Hey Ashley, aren't you in Saved by the Bell?
Ashley: Yes. Every Saturday morning.
Tkeelas asks: What is everyone's all time favorite song?
Adrienne: Oh Wow! That's a hard one because I love so many amazing artists and to pick one song
out of them all...Led Zeppelin's The Rain Song, that's one of my favorites!
Justin: I like techno and punk.
Ashley: My mind is completely blank! I like R&B and pop.
Kristi_Scott asks: Who were your first influences when you were beginning acting?
Adrienne: I am a big...it depends..Meg Ryan, I love Meg Ryan! There are so many amazing
actresses....glen Close, Meryll Streep, I saw Sophie's Choice and said "I am going to be an actress"...I
wanted to act when I was two...I wanted to be Barbara Streisand for a short time!
Justin: I really like comedy. I like Robin Williams a lot. He does comedy and drama. Nicholas Cage.
They're the actors I really appreciate. It's fun to watch them all because you learn from them.
Ashley: Michelle Pfeiffer stands out in my mind.
Justin: She's good looking.
Ashley: She's gorgeous!
barb0771 asks: Justin - Did you watch Jacob's acting before you took over the role.
Justin: I watched a little bit. To catch up on the story line. I wanted to bring a style of my own to the
show and the character.
Mel18_99 asks: I think Amber is a lot like Brooke. Is this part of the reason why Brooke doesn't
like Amber? In the future could Brook and Amber be like the current Stefanie and Brooke
situation?
Adrienne: I think that's what's happening now. I think Brooke's becoming Stephanie in her own sense
and Amber's becoming Brooke. She's such a versatile character and Brooker know what's going to
happen next. I think that's basically what's going on. That's why it bothers Kimberly so much.
SuzefromSyd asks: Onscreen there's quite a bit of jealousy, rivalry etc. between you 3. Do you
guys get along off screen?
Ashley: Yes.
Adrienne: Yes.
Justin: Of course. We have a really good time.
Ashley: Boring, but that's how it is!
Justin: There's no drama!
Ashley: Sorry to disappoint you. :)
Yael_Israeli_fan asks: Do you have a special trick to memorize your lines?
Adrienne: We'd try to start the scene and we'd start laughing and I'd calm down and then she'd laugh
and then she'd calm down and I'd laugh.
Justin: Well, no, actually, it's not really a special trick. I sit down every night, for like an hour or so,
and I run it, and rerun it, in front of the mirror. By then it's memorized.
Adrienne: I have a photographic memory. I look at something and I know it. It's so simple for me. I
literally read my lines three times and I know it and that's it.
Ashley: I memorize lines pretty quickly. I just go over it a couple of times. I run with the person I'm
doing with three times.
Justin: Yeah, three is really the key.
Adrienne: Bigger speeches I have, it's easy for me because I see it in my head. It's so hard to
describe what a photographic memory is
Adrienne: like when I have three or four page monologues I'm like "Yes Brad thank you!"
manolis_varnassinger asks: Justin how did u get the role in the show?
Justin: I had to audition and I went to the talent test. And then I got the job. Pretty simple.
sdn001 asks: Justin: Both Adrienne and Ashley have sung on the show before. Do you sing
too?
Justin: I do sing. But I haven't really talked to anyone about it. Lately I've just been getting adjusted
to work and everything. But I do enjoy singing. I got a big start in musical theater.
manolis_varnassinger asks: Adrienne how would u describe your character amber.
Adrienne: I'd say she's the most talented role I've ever played. She's completely versatile. She is
basically, she's very misunderstood, she's not necessarily evil. She does things without thinking
first.
misha98_07940 asks: Ashley do you still attend bible study with Hunter Tylo (Taylor)?
Adrienne: Which causes trouble. I think at one point in time she was a nasty person but she's trying
as hard as she can not to be.
Ashley: The one that I went to, Tim Story isn't doing it any more, but he'll be starting it again soon. So
yes.
lovelytigerlily asks: Adrienne, did you like working with Usher?
Adrienne: Yeah he's really sweet. He really is. He's a character in himself. He had great presence
and a lot of energy. He was a good actor, I could see things. He didn't feed. He fed me lines. When
you're acting in a scene and people give you energy to the scene and things like that, you feed off
things like that as an actor and he did that very well.
bessie_lou asks: I lost my first born so I can relate to losing a baby but so many soaps are
having the babies die now.
Adrienne: I know that and I know they're all stealing the story line from B & B I just think that all the
other soaps just wish they could be as good as B & B and that's why they're doing it! Because B & B
is the best show on daytime!
Scarlett_Monroe asks: If you could change something about your alter egos, what wold it
be?
Adrienne: I don't know. I love my alter ego, I don't want to change anything! I can't think of
anything.
Ashley: I wouldn't change anything. I think she's developing beautifully as we go along more and
more. She gets stronger and stronger, and develops her modeling. I think everything is coming along
nicely.
Justin: I think it would be cool if Rick got involved in racing cars. Honest to God, I think it would be
really neat. I love cars and I could relate. It would be cool to do.
manolis_varnassinger asks: Justin what is like working with Ron Moss, John McCook and
Susan Flannery (Ridge, ERic and Stephany)?
Justin: It's an absolute pleasure. They're all excellent actors. I haven't gotten to work much with Ron
Moss. He's an incredibly interesting person though. It keeps work fun!
Yael_Israeli_fan asks: Do you answer your fan mail?
Adrienne: Yes I do but I'm really, really far behind because there are a lot of you out there. So if I
haven't answered anything just keep looking in the mail because it's coming!
Ashley: Yes. My mom reads every single letter, and I have cards that I'll sign, so I take two days to sit
there a couple of hours and sign fan mail.
Justin: I've just started answering it. For awhile I couldn't because they didn't want people to see what
I looked like.
Kristi_Scott asks: Do you guys think this show will last for a long time, or dwindle out?
Ashley: It will last forever!
Adrienne: Mmm hmm.
Justin: I'd say it's been around for a long time and it's here to stay.
Adrienne: The number one show in the world.
ambermoore14 asks: Adrienne, who do you think that Amber belongs with, Rick or CJ?(CJ!!!!)
Adrienne: That's a good question! I think that CJ will always be in love with Amber, but Amber
thinks she's in love with Rick. Personally I think Amber and CJ are more---i think they'd be a perfect
match if they ever realized that they're a perfect match.
Justin: No, I hear ya! I agree. I think they're more of kindred spirits than Rick and Amber.
Ashley: I think that Kimberly and Rick belong together, and I think CJ and Amber belong together.
But Amber and Rick can be run together too.
Justin: I think Rick brings some sense to Amber. It balances out. Exactly.
Ashley: (Fun)
shy_dol asks: Justin, have you and Jacob Young ever met face to face?
Justin: You know what? We haven't. I've always wanted to meet him. He went his way and I'm just
coming in.
michofek asks: Do you ever get lines that you do not want to say? Can you change them?
Adrienne: I change my lines all the time. I'm constantly changing them. I know the character and
sometimes they write lines that people don't say. Like teenagers don't say--"ooh that's really hip" and
I'll change lines like that. Ashley: You guys, my dad just now saw Justin, and he was like, "Wow,
that's the new Rick? He looks like a Rick!" Justin: I look like a Rick? Ashley: He keeps
rewinding it and freeze-framing it on your face! Justin: That's good. I like that. Ashley: There
are lines that I get that I don't want to say. We ask if we can change them and most of the time they
let us. Justin: It's a little different for me. I'm new, and I feel uncomfortable, but it's nice to have
the freedom to suggest. Sometimes it works for the better. The lines come out smoother. The acting
is more believable.
SuzefromSyd asks: Who is your FAVORITE CHARACTER on B&B and why?
Ashley: I would have to say Sally Spectra. I love her as a person, and as a character. She's so
dramatic and funny I love doing scenes with her. Her hair... it's everything! She's so fun to watch.
Adrienne: My favorite character would probably have to be Stephanie because she's such a powerful
character and she's such a great actress.
Justin: I agree... Stephanie. She's really the powerhouse of the Forrester family. She holds it all
together. I really love her. I love Sally Spectra too.
ttoo_much_4_you asks: Which soap opera did you actually grow up watching, and what soap
actor or actress do you model yourself after?
Ashley: I watched Y&R and B&B with my grandmother. We use to live right next door. I was named
after the original Ashley from Y&R because that was my grandmother's favorite character. I can
remember watching when I was 5. The character that I really loved was Nick and Sharon, the story
line from Y&R.
Adrienne: Actually, I watched B & B went it first came in. My mom's secretary used to watch it so I'd
sneak in and watch it with her and Guiding Light.
Justin: I was heavily involved in hockey and ski racing. I watched no TV at all. I lived in the
mountains.
Ashley: Goodbye! Thanks for chatting everyone and watching the show! God bless you!
Justin: Good night everybody! Thanks for coming. Keep watching. I feel like I get better every day. I
hope you like what you see. Adrienne: Bye everybody. Thanks for watching. Keep watching
because exciting things are coming up! Justin: Oh yeah!
The Ex - Files Bold and Beautiful The Estranged Bedfellows: Eric and Stephanie
Forrester
Oh, Happy Days: Back in college, Stephanie set her cap for handsome Eric Forrester. The
fact that he already had a sweetheart didn’t stop her from plying him with liquor at a party and
seducing him. The pregnancy that followed led to a quickie wedding. Not that things turned
out so badly for Eric – Stephanie provided the seed money for Eric’s fashion empire, and their
shared goals and commitment to family led to love.
Breaking Up Was Hard To Do… Or Was It? Eric grew increasingly frustrated with the way
Stephanie meddled in their children’s lives. He finally became so disgusted he asked for a
divorce. Stephanie was devastated by the breakup, but never gave up hope that they’d one day
reconcile. They did make it to the altar, but Steph called off the wedding mid-ceremony when
she saw a picture of Eric in bed with Lauren (thanks, Sally) tucked into the minister’s
bible.
(Re-)united Way: When Eric tires of hot-to-trot Lauren, she can seek solace from disgraced
shrink James. You don’t need a medical license for what Lauren will have in mind.
Chance Of A Reunion: 3 to 1. Eric and Stephanie have a profound connection. No matter
what happens, they remain close friends and confidants. And isn’t that what the best marriages
are made of? - Soap Opera Digest, January 5, 1999
Romance Report
Digest Tracks The Landmarks On The Road To Love
Eric and Stephanie, Bold and Beautiful
Relationship Milestone: Stephanie’s stroke.
The Scene: Although Stephanie’s love for ex-husband Eric has never wavered, he’s been
frustratingly fickle. Brooke, Sheila, Lauren… Eric’s had his head turned more than once. Still,
he and Stephanie have always shared an important bond, which intensified after her stroke. Not
surprisingly, Eric kept an around-the-clock vigil at the hospital. When Stephanie emerged from
her come, Eric declared their divorce a big mistake and proposed marriage.
Stumbling Blocks: Stephanie faces a rough road to recovery. A very independent woman,
Steph may actually push Eric away rather than be a burden.
Current Status: On hold. Right now, Stephanie’s rehabilitation is top priority. If a remarriage
is going to happen, Steph’s gonna want to walk down that aisle – unassisted.
The Odds: Good. Eric’s feelings are genuine, and Stephanie never stopped wanting him
back.
One on One with Jennifer Finnigan (Bridget) and Latin Singing Sensation, Innis
SC Sherrie: Tell us about your character?
Jennifer: Bridget Forrester started off as a young innocent girl who [went] through a number
of situations with her family that [were] somewhat traumatizing to her… At this point she's a
married woman. I really do love her because she's very sweet and very innocent, but at the
same time she's becoming more and more savvy.
SC Sherrie: Can you tell us more? Innis: My character is very interesting and very
different. I'll be playing myself, Innis. I'll be [doing] a couple of cameo appearances like the
fashion show. There will be an introduction of the Latin family. As part of that introduction,
they will be using my music because I'm a singer. My new album, as you can hear in the
background. This is the music that I'll be singing at the fashion show. It's an honor to be part of
it all. Not having any Hispanic roots, but now with a lot of time [spent] living in Mexico City, I
feel real Mexican now. My heart has changed and it feels great to come to the United States
and share my passion [for] the [Latin American] music and the culture…with the people here
in the United States. Jennifer: I think our characters are destined to have a passionate
romance. SC Sherrie: Who welcomed you on the set with open arms? Jennifer: I think
everybody would have the same answer for that. It would be John McCook. He is the
warmest, kindest, most amazing man that I know. I mean he is just very much a father figure to
every young person on the show. He's witty and funny and extremely supportive and
everybody loves him so much and we're all so grateful to have him there. SC Sherrie: Innis,
is this your first time appearing on a soap? Innis: I had a little experience in Mexico on a
telenovela (soap opera). I was on it for about 30 episodes and that was called DKDA. But I
was playing myself, as well. It was interesting. SC Sherrie: Do you feel that the new story
line is going to bring in a whole new audience?
Jennifer: Definitely, this is probably one of the smartest moves. This just proves that daytime
is a lot more cutting-edge than people give it credit for. We are the first daytime show that's
going to be simultaneously broadcast in Spanish and I think already we have a good percentage
of a Latino fan base and I think it can only do wonderful things for the show. I'm really
excited. Innis: I agree. There are so many cultures that are coming together and I think
that this is such a great moment in time for the Bold and Beautiful to do something like
this. Jennifer: I love the fact that we're adding a different culture to it. It's always been a
traditional soap, but Bradley Bell has always been willing to do whatever it takes to get to that
next level. And this is a really smart move.
SC Sherrie: Innis, did CBS approach you for this part?
Innis: My experience is a little different. With the growth of my career throughout Mexico and
Latin America they had heard about me. They were looking for a new talent maybe out of
Mexico or a Latin American country. It just so happened that I am the kid born and raised in
L.A. The surfer kid, I lived in San Diego, went to college there then I went to Mexico City.
For me it has added to the story and the whole thing. [Producer] Ron Weaver was kind of
excited about it and it's his idea. And here I am.
SC Sherrie: Jennifer, I know you're from Montreal, Canada. Were you familiar with the
show?
Jennifer: I had actually never seen the show in its entirety. I had heard of it. I actually
auditioned right from the airport. I came to visit a potential manager. And she said when you
get off the plane do you mind driving to CBS? And I said no I don't mind at all just for fun.
And I went just for fun and I wound up getting the part and it has changed my whole life.
Within two months my life went through a huge transformation, I moved here.
STARS OF THE WEEK: B&B’s John McCook & Susann Flannery
“When Susan falls into that unprotected place, it becomes involving for people to see and involving for
me to play off” – John McCook The re-marriage of Eric Forrester and his first wife, Stephanie, was
something fans desired almost as much as Stephanie herself. Although the union didn’t come off –
Thanks to Sally Spectra planting a sexy snapshot of Eric making love to Lauren inside the minister’s
Bible – viewers were treated to the intense emotional drama they’ve come to expect from original
cast members John McCook (Eric) and Susan Flannery (Stephanie). For their portrayals of two
friends who lost a second chance at a life together, SOAP OPERA MAGAZINE names these talented
veterans Stars of the Week. “Whenever there’s a scene between John and Susan, you always
end up with something interesting, because they’re so committed to what they’re doing,” praises B&B
supervising producer-director John C. Zak. “However, with these wedding scenes and the aftermath,
John and Susan did some of their most powerful work ever.” What made Flannery’s performance
particularly appealing in her confrontational scenes with Eric was that she showed Stephanie’s rarely
seen vulnerable side. “Susan chooses, it appears, to have that only with Eric, Ridge and Taylor
because of her feelings for those characters,” McCook observes. “I think that’s perfectly appropriate.
As angry as Stephanie was over the photograph, Susan didn’t have Stephanie yelling – except for a
word or two – and that made the scenes all the more interesting.” Compelling and intimate
moments do not exist in a vacuum, however. If Stephanie wasn’t so invested in Eric, her sense of
loss wouldn’t have been as dramatic. “When it comes to Eric, I think both Stephanie and Susan see
him as that Achilles’ heel, that one weakness in her life,” Zak says. “And in doing so, she’s so much
more vulnerable to him.” Likewise, Eric played the repentant groom with loving sincerity, pleading
with Stephanie to not only forgive him but to marry him anyway. “When Susan falls into that
unprotected place, it becomes involving for people to see and involving for me to play off,” McCook
maintains. “It’s touching to see Susan so affected by what I’m giving her as an actor.” McCook,
too, conveys a special fondness for his character’s partner of many years, to the point where Eric
apparently put aside the reasons why he divorced her in the first place. “I think if Eric were seeing
how much manipulating Stephanie’s continuing to do to this day, he’d be pretty surprised,” suggests
McCook. “Still, Eric’s made it absolutely clear in the time following the aborted wedding that he wants
to win her trust and he’s committed to marrying her. Eric will woo Stephanie very much in Italy.
“However, if Eric does end up marrying Stephanie, he’d quickly see that (meddling) quality of hers
raise its ugly head again,” McCook hints. “So, in terms of them finally getting together, I don’t think it’ll
be a done deal, even if the deed is done.” By Michael J. Maloney
ADRIANNE FRANTZ (AMBER) & ASHLEY CAFAGNA (KIMBERLY) SoapCity-Chat, 23 mars '99
Adrienne: Hey all B & B viewers, my wonderful fans out there, thank you for logging in tonight, it's
going to be a wonderful chat!
Ashley: Hi everybody! Thanks for coming. Welcome to our chat!
jacobyoungsnumb1fan asks: Ashley, Happy B-Lated Birthday! Which character do you like to play,
Liz or Kimberly?
Ashley: Thank you! I like playing Kimberly because she's smart and not so ditzy. She knows what she
wants, and I think eventually she'll get it. Sorry, Adrienne!
shinyhappygurl asks: What made you three decide to venture into the world of Soap Opera??
Ashley: I just always had faith that whatever the Lord wanted me to do, I asked God to lead me in the
direction he'd want me to go in and he led me in the direction of B&B. It wasn't anything I planned.
Adrienne: Well I didn't really plan it, I was auditioning in NY. I was actually going to college at the
time. I had been in college for a week and I had a screen test in L.A. and I didn't think anything of it
and then I got the job!
angel_99_53207 asks: what's the most embaressing thing thats happened on set?
Adrienne: It's not about me but its about Mick. We were filming the wedding and it had to be 11:30,
midnight, and we had been there forever... everyone was exhausted... and they were doing the scene
between Darlene, Susan Flannery and Katherine. Mick had to be there for ambiance and it would've
been fine, but then he started to snore really loud
Ashley: Did he really fall asleep?!
Adrienne: And we had to stop taping because everyone was laughing so hard... it was funny!
me2_72 asks: Adrienne....Is B&B better than working on Sunset Beach?
Adrienne: Yes! (lol) I like it. I had a great time on Sunset and I have a lot of friends there... it's a great
show. I like B & B better!
angel0745 asks: Did you enjoy working with Usher?
Adrienne: Yeah, he's a good kisser too
Ashley: oh my god!
Adrienne: He's very suave!!
Yael_17 asks: Is it hard to cry on cue?
Ashley: Yes... It's something that becomes automatic. There's days when it takes longer when you
have to think of something really horrible, and there are some days it comes automatically so your
body just knows. But sometimes it can be really difficult.
Adrienne: I think it depends on the substitution... it's when you take one thing out of your personal life
and use it in your acting as a substitute for the scene... it depends on the substitution... if I'm thinking
about my grandpa's funeral, it's easier for me.
lindakot asks: Ashley, do you have many fellow christians on the soap?
Ashley: yes... Hunter Tylo is, Jacob Young, Adrienne Frantz. Hunter Tylo goes to a bible study once a
month with me. We sit next to each other, so it's really fun. I've gone to bible study my whole life at
different churches. I've been going to this one for about a year now.
nikkifan asks: Adrienne, if Kimberly gets Rick who would you like to see Amber with?
Adrienne: C.J., because C.J. always loved Amber deep down inside... from the beginning. So maybe
one day Amber will wise up.
Ant16_99 asks: Ashley: I was wondering how you liked working on Saved By the Bell : The New
Class? Do you still keep in touch with the rest of the cast?
Ashley: It was good. I liked working on it. It was a good stepping stone for me. I keep in touch with a
couple of the cast members, but working on B&B has been a more positive atmosphere and situation
for me.
kristiej_99 asks: do you get to keep all of the clothes you wear?
Ashley: No
Adrienne: No. We could always borrow them
Ashley: Tonight I borrowed something to wear to a party. We can borrow, but we can't take.
Sunflowerseed1999 asks: Adienne, do you enjoy acting the part of the bitch?
Adrienne: Yes, I'm a bitch and I love being the bitch because I get to do fun, crazy things... it's better
to play the bad person. No offense to Ashley, but I think personally it's better to play the character
everybody loves to hate
stodi_0 asks: Do yall know ahead of time what will happen with your characters... or are you in the
dark also.
Ashley: We're in the dark also
Adrienne: We know a month and a half in advance
DaBomb_2545 asks: ADRIENNE AND ASHLEY DO YOU GET MOBBED BY PAPARAZZI.
Ashley: They're always respectful. When they want to take their pictures they do, but they're never
rude about it. In my case... I don't know about anybody else.
Adrienne: Well no, not really, but sometimes if you're in a hurry or something and you wanna go
inside some photographers can be a little nasty, which I don't think is necessary but most of the time
it's fine.
Concilio26 asks: Are you three going to attend the emmys this year?
Ashley: Yes. I am.
Adrienne: Maybe. Yeah, I think so
shhugar asks: is it hard to kiss guys on-screen & not feel anything for them?
Ashley: No, because it's all part of your job. Everyday you're doing that. If you're friends with them, or
not, you're acting. When you're in the moment you have to feel for that person, but once you're done
you know it's pretend. But there are cases where you fall in love with a co-star because you do scenes
together every day... but not in my case.
Adrienne: Not in my case either. You basically summed it up, Ashley.
Luvvy_15 asks: Do you ever get the chance to watch yourselves on TV?
Ashley: I watch the show every day. Just because I'm new and want to see what's going on and how I
do, because I've only been on for 6 months
Adrienne: I watch everyday and I've been on for a long time. I tape it
AzaleaSmoke asks: Is Jacob a good kisser?
Adrienne: Yeah, I don't know if I can't think of him like that... he's like a brother figure... Yeah, I guess
he is.
Ashley: He is... I don't think of him like that either. He is.
Sunbeam198 asks: Ashley, are your parents as controlling as your on screen dad?
Ashley: No. My parents trust me a lot more and give me a lot more leeway than my dad on
screen.
lindakot asks: What's it like working with Susan Flannery (Stephanie) both as a director and a fellow
actor?
Adrienne: Susan rocks. I love Susan. She's such a great director. She knows what she's doing, she
gets it done and she's really quick. And when I'm working with her she always knows her lines, she's
always on top of it...SHE ROCKS!!!
Ashley: She's awesome. My first day I was on the show, she was directing, which was really cool. She
directs once or twice a year. One day I wasn't doing a scene with her and I had to cry, and I couldn't
do it, I was so nervous. She told me to relax, just breathe, you'll do fine. she went upstairs to watch
from the booth, and I had no problem. It was really nice of her.
angel0745 asks: What do you do in your spare time?
Adrienne: Write music, play with my band, do things like that. Normal things
Ashley: I like to ride horses, hang out with my family and my boyfriend. I like to sing and dance and
shop, those are my favorite things to do
Yael_17 asks: Adrienne what's the name of your band, and why?
Adrienne: It was Adrienne Frantz and the Dresden Slip and it was that because my guitar player Jerry
had a little too much alcohol at a club called The Dresden, and he decided he'd become monkey boy
and climbed into a tree and the branch broke and he walked around with a limp for about three and a
half months. But now its just me, Adrienne Frantz
Kel1992 asks: Adrienne, What is it like to work with Katherine Kelly Lang?
Adrienne: Katherine's great... it's really great that our characters hate each other so much because we
love each other off screen.... It's a great contrast... and we giggle a lot
bladesinger0 asks: are there days you feel like skipping work
Ashley: Yes. I love my job, but there's days when the alarm clock goes off and I want to sleep... but
once I'm up I'm glad to be there.
Adrienne: Yeah, I think the times I don't want to be there is when I'm sick, 'cause I'm a workaholic...
but sometimes I really don't wanna be there and I make myself go... I've never called in sick a day in
my life
Nameguy43 asks: Are you single?
Ashley: No.
Adrienne: No
chica10_98 asks: Adrienne what kind of music do you listen to???
Adrienne: I listen to a lot of classic rock and Beatles, Doors, Bowie and then I listen to some modern
stuff too like the Goo Goo Dolls and Sarah McLaughlin
Ashley: I listen to a lot of R&B, Brandi, I like her.. Boys 2 Men. I listen to Mariah Carey, I like a lot of
hip hop. I like some stuff like the Goo Goo Dolls, Fiona Apple, some contemporary bands. I like
country also. I love country music. I like everything, basically.
OD36 asks: What is your favorite episode?
Adrienne: It was one that I just did. I can't tell you what it is but I can tell you it's the best scene of my
life and it's coming up in the next few months
Ashley: So far my favorite scene I've taped.. I like the beginning because I did some fun stuff with
Rick, where we danced and had dinner. My favorite emotional scene was when my dad and Macy and
Sally were telling me they were my relatives.
Adrienne: You did a really good job, I forgot to tell you
Ashley: I was happy with my performance. Goodbye everybody! God bless you. Thanks for watching.
We love you!
Adrienne: Goodnight everyone, thank you for chatting with us and IT'S BEEN FUN!!
A Wedding - And Family Reunion
After a year of heartache and obstacles, the highly anticipated marriage of Brooke and
Thorne finally took place. To make this festive occasion even more special, the entire
Logan family, including Grandma Logan (LESLEY WOODS), returned to The Bold and
the Beautiful for a few episodes.
"People really love the Logan family," said NANCY SLOAN (Katie). "It was a nice, warm
family. There was always a good closeness [between them], so I think people will be
really excited to see the family back." Sloan had taken time off from school finals to
attend the big event and joked, "I had to go and talk to my professors, which was kind
of embarrassing [because the excuse] was like, "No, not my grandmother's dead, but I
have to be at a soap opera!"
ETHAN WAYNE (Storm) was also thrilled to be back on the B&B set. "It's great," he
enthused. "I had my twentieth high school reunion this year and it's kind of like that
because it's been eleven or twelve years since I did [the show]."
CARRIE MITCHUM (Donna) was surprised to see how some things had changed - and
grown - on B&B. "It's hysterical," laughed Mitchum of Rick's sudden growth spurt. "It
cracked me up to find out that Rick was so big. I thought, 'Wait, you are supposed to be
my nephew?' " The actress also took comfort in the fact that many things that hadn't
changed. "It's not like walking into a strange environment. The hair and makeup people
are the same. The production people are the same. It was really a lot of fun. We
laughed a lot."
Bradley Bell, Executive Producer
"We have proven that we translate well into other languages. The Bold and the Beautiful is in
six languages across the world. But not Spanish, right here in the United States. Being that
we're romantic based storytelling, based on families, interaction between siblings and
daughters-in-law and conflict that everyone can relate to, I think we'll translate well into the
Spanish-speaking Latino community here."
Adrienne Frantz (Amber)
"The Bold and the Beautiful is in 160 countries and over 500 million viewers on a daily basis.
That's pretty amazing. I think it's because of the fact that it's a half hour show, because people
have time to watch it. You just flick it on and it's good programming. It's not some piece of
crap that you have to sit through an hour of (I'm not saying anything negative towards other
shows), but it does make it easier for people to watch because it's only half an hour."
John McCook (Eric)
"I know that our show is very successful in Europe as well as all over the world. [In]
Mediterranean countries like Italy and Spain, they love Eric Forrester because they like the
glamour of this father guy to whom family is everything, but he's still elegant and sophisticated
and successful, and they like that."
Susan Flannery (Stephanie)
"It's huge, it's really kind of amazing. It's a little breathtaking actually. It has such an impact on
people. I think its "Hollywood, the streets paved with gold" when you talk to them. They
always want to come to Los Angeles and come to America. The show is so exciting; it's like an
old 1930's movie. The rich folks are always getting into trouble everyday."
Innis
"There are so many cultures that are coming together and I think that this is such a great
moment in time for The Bold and the Beautiful to do something like this."
Jennifer Finnigan (Bridget) "I love the fact that we're adding a different culture to it. It's
always been a traditional soap, but Bradley Bell has always been willing to do whatever it takes
to get to that next level. And this is a really smart move."
On July 14, 1999, Bobbie Eakes performed at the Victoria Day Concert in Sweden, which is
held in honor of Crown Princess Victoria's birthday every year. Besides Bobbie, many other
Swedish and international artists were present, including Eurovision Song Contest winner
Charlotte Nilsson, Roger Pontare, Anders Ekborg, Babsan, The Navigators, Avec, Peter
Lundblad, Linda Lampenius and B&B co-stars Ian Buchanan (James) and Susan Flannery
(Stephanie). The event started with the arrival of the Swedish Royal Family. It was Crown
Princess Victoria's birthday, so she received a gift from the hands of the hosts. After Princess
Victoria held a short speech and presented a prize to Swedish swimmer Lars Frolander, the
concert started.
One of the first highlights of the event was the performance of Ian Buchanan and Susan
Flannery with "Babsan," a Dame Edna kind of character. After performances by, among
others, Charlotte Nilsson, Linda Lampenius, and Anders Ekborg, it was Bobbie's turn. The
host of the event announced that this was going to be a surprise performance, by two
completely contrasting performers: Roger Pontare and Bobbie Eakes. Roger was desribed as
a rough guy from Norrland in the North of Sweden, and Bobbie as the glamorous Hollywood
actress and singer. Together, they sang "Heaven's Just a Step Away," the duet Bobbie
previously recorded with B&B actor John McCook.
After singing the duet with Roger, Bobbie congratulated Princess Victoria on her birthday, in
Swedish. She had written the words on her finger, but they had faded. With a little help from
the host of the event, she completed the sentence in Swedish. Then, she sang her single "A
Broken Wing," from her solo album "Here and Now." ("More than Words" is the U.S. version
that will be released in the near future.)
After Bobbie finished her song, several other artists performed. At the end of the event, all the
artists came back on stage again, and sang a final song. Princess Victoria also joined them,
and received a small statue from the hands of Ian Buchanan, on behalf of the Bold and
Beautiful cast and crew.
Belleza y Poder
This week marks a major turning point for The Bold and the Beautiful. On May 28th, the CBS
soap, arguably the most popular daytime drama in the world, begins broadcasting in Spanish
via the Second Audio Program feature available on most new television sets.
The decision to simulcast B&B in Spanish is a carefully crafted and perhaps business-savvy
move. Until now, no American daytime dramas have broadcast on US airwaves in a language
other than English. American soaps are, however, subtitled or dubbed into foreign languages
for broadcast abroad. Any American viewer wanting to see a "live" airing of a Spanish soap
opera have had to tune to Univision or Telemundo, to Spanish language cable channels.
New census figures put the Hispanic population in the United States at 35 million, a huge
increase over previous census figures. "This is a growing audience to which attention must be
paid," notes head of CBS daytime programming Lucy Johnson. Johnson says that CBS has
been mulling the decision top simulcast in Spanish for nearly five years.
In addition to the audio changes, B&B will also be diversifying its on-screen appearance. Two
Latino characters, fashion designer Antonio Dominguez and model Sofia Alonso, will be
incorporated into the cast beginning this week.
Colombian native Paulo Benedeti will play Dominguez. Soap viewers may remember him for
his work as Jesse Blue on Guiding Light. Alonso will be played by Argentine model Sandra
Vidal.
Some critics have questioned whether or not B&B is trying to boost its ratings by "tokenism,"
adding Latino characters to gain viewers without really utilizing the characters in a manner
consistent with Caucasian characters.
"I never thought of it as tokenism," says Benedeti. "I saw it as an opportunity to play what I
am. It's nice for a chance to be able to play a Latin character."
Vidal concurs. "Finally, Latins are being represented in sophisticated roles. Usually we play the
maids and the cooks. The world will now see that we are intelligent and sophisticated."
Emmy winner Susan Flannery (Stephanie Forrester) refuses to call the move by CBS
"exploitative."
"It is merely reaching out to a new audience. There has been an extraordinary shift in
population in this country and you have to recognize it."
The Bold and the Beautiful's first Spanish simulcast is slated for May 28th. The show will be
known as Belleza y Poder (or Beauty and Power) in its Spanish tongue. Vidal and Benedeti
both make their debut the following day, May 29th.
