If there is one thing soap casting directors excel at, it’s spotting future stars. Alice Halsey, who played Rachel Black on Days of our Lives, is now starring as Laura in the Little House on the Prairie reboot. Mckenna Grace, who portrayed young Faith Newman on The Young and the Restless, has gone on to appear in major projects, most recenrly Scream 7. Nicholas Chavez exited General Hospital as Spencer after landing the role of Lyle Menendez in Netflix’s Monsters: The Lyle and Eric Menendez Story. And those are just a few examples from a long list of actors who got their start in daytime television.

Soaps provide an incredible platform for performers at every stage of their careers, where they’re just breaking into the business or making daytime their professional home. While some actors bristle at the idea of soaps being called a “training ground” or a “boot camp,” it’s hard to deny that the demanding pace helps sharpen skills, build confidence and prepare performers for whatever comes next. I’ve lost count of how many actors have told me that learning lines quickly, adapting to last-minute script changes, and thinking on their feet are skills they first developed while working on a soap.

One performer we may very well be talking about in an “I knew them when” conversation years from now is Scarlett Spears. At just 8 years old, the actress not only only plays Donna Corinthos on GH, but has also appeared in the blockbuster Wicked and will soon be heard in one of the summer’s most anticipated films, Toy Story 5. I recently caught up with Scarlett to discuss her growing résumé and latest role, and you can read our interview below.

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The countdown to the release of Toy Story 5 on June 19 is officially underway, and there’s a familiar face behind one of the franchise’s beloved characters. General Hospital’s Scarlett Spears (Donna Corinthos) lends her voice to Bonnie Anderson, the young girl who became the caretaker of Andy’s treasured toys. I recently connected with Scarlett via email to chat about her exciting new role and here’s what she had to say.

Steph: Congratulations, Scarlett! How did you feel when you heard you were cast in Toy Story 5?

Scarlett: When I found out I booked the part, I was so shocked. My mom was shocked; my grandmother was shocked — we were all so excited! Everyone was proud of me, and I was really excited to get started! 

Steph: What was it like to voice Bonnie? Did you have to do things differently than when you play Donna? 

Scarlett: Playing Bonnie was very different than playing Donna. For Bonnie, I had to go into the studio, and wear headsets to record my lines. I had to speak into a microphone in a recording booth. They had cereal and snacks for me — as much as I wanted — which was fun. I was able to say my lines in all different ways — loud, quiet, happy, and sad. We just got to work in very many different ways than I ever had before. When I say my lines for Donna, I’m actually on a set with other actors, and I see the scene I am working on. We normally just do our scenes a few times — and sometimes we just get on the first try! 

Steph: You also appeared as young Glinda in Wicked: For Good. What are your favorite memories of doing that? 

Scarlett: My favorite memories on Wicked for Good was meeting Ariana [Grande, Glinda]. She is such a nice person, and I feel like we have the same personality … we both love pink, we both love music and we are kind! She’s just the best — I love her! Another favorite memory was going to London to film; London is so pretty! We got to see Wicked on Broadway, and of course It was amazing! And meeting new friends — we had so much fun! 

Steph: What does it mean to you to be a part of two such popular franchises? 

Scarlett: It means a lot! These movies will live forever, and I’ll always be a part of them. I think that's really neat. I’m just so grateful they chose me to be a part of these films! 

Steph: Who do you have the most fun working with on General Hospital and why?

Scarlett: I love everyone I work with, but I think I’m the closest to my Dad [Maurice Benard, Sonny]! We have a lot of fun together. We like to dance and goof around. But we do know when to be serious on set, too. 

Steph: You’ve already done so many interesting roles. Do you have a dream role? 

Scarlett: I think my dream role would be to be in another movie like Matilda or Harriet the Spy! Those movies are so good, and I think it would be fun to be able to play the main character!

Bell-Phillip Television Productions, which produces The Bold and the Beautiful, has teamed up with Jeff Jenkins, executive producer on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, to create The Bold and the Unscripted, a new series where a group of reality TV stars “with thespian aspirations” will compete for speaking roles and guest spots on B&B. In an interview with Variety.com, Jenkins explained, “The Bold and the Beautiful has been doing what they do for 40 years, they just launched their app, with 3,900 episodes available to watch. So we’ve partnered with Brad Bell [executive producer/head writer] on this format that we’re taking out. I think it’s going to be such a fun show, very unexpected. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

It reminds me of SOAPnet’s I Wanna Be a Soap Star and CBS/Procter & Gamble’s InTurn — which famously launched the career of Owning Manhattan’s Ryan Serhant, who secured a spot as As The World Turns’s Evan Walsh back in 2007 — in the best possible way, but with a fun, reality star twist. Can’t wait!

Elliot Carr will portray Nurse Grant on General Hosptital on Monday, June 1, in scenes with Brennan (Chris McKenna) and Nina (Cynthia Watros).

Wally Kurth will have scenes as Days’s Justin on Tuesday, June 2.

Sarah Bartholomew will play Destiny on Days in scenes with Sarah (Linsey Godfrey) and Xander (Paul Telfer) on Tuesday, June 2.

Richard Wharton is back as Days’s Dr. Wilhelm Rolf on Wednesday, June 3.

Kayla Ehle appears as Michaela, a Forrester model on B&B, on Wednesday, June 3.

Shannon McMillen returns to B&B as Willow on Wednesday, June 3.

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Despite the heavy storyline he’s been involved in for much of 2026, Joshua Morrow (Nick Newman, The Young and the Restless) has learned to leave the drama at work. “I leave things at the door incredibly easy; it's not a problem,” he told me last week. “The only story that I ever took home was Cassie’s [Camryn Grimes] death [in 2005]. I could not shake that, watching this beautiful little girl that I kind of in a way raised around here, having to tell this very difficult story and dealing with the depression of that. That was a part of my life for a while, and I told myself I was never going to do that again. So this story doesn’t nearly have the impact on me that that one did.”

Still, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. “The day that I shot this sort of AA meeting scene [coming up], that kind of hung around me for a little bit,” he shared. “But I can leave it at the door now pretty easy. There’s this koi pond with these fish as I leave, and I walk out the building and I say bye to the fish, and I leave everything with them.”

Joshua said he especially enjoys stories that highlight Nick as a father. “In real life and in playing Nick, his calling card is a father and same with me,” he explained. “I just love being a dad, and I think that's the role that Nick wants more than anything is to just be a great father to his children. So, that stuff is very easy for me to play. I don’t have to dig for anything when it comes to that. That's who I am. I like being a dad.”

He’s hopeful Nick will eventually share more scenes with his children. “Summer’s gone and Noah came back but he’s got his own thing going on with Sienna, and we think Christian is tied up in the garage with a plate of goldfish and enough water,” he joked. “But soaps are cyclical. The stories come and go, and eventually I think the kids will get maybe more involved.”

Empire Records and Grease 2 are two movies that never fail to make me smile, so I couldn’t have been more excited to talk with Maxwell Caulfield, who memorably appeared in both films, about his one-day stint on General Hospital as Apollo. He gamely indulged all my movie-related questions, including whether he had any idea Empire Records would become such a cult classic.

“No, not even close,’ he told me of his turn as Rex Manning. “I mean, at the time, one certainly had high hopes for it, but it was apparent very early on they didn’t feel they wanted to throw good money after bad, and I think that was based on some test screenings. They went back and cut the film and actually jettisoned a couple of particularly good scenes for Rex, which I thought was a bit of a shame. And when the record album came out, they didn’t even put my song [“Say No More (Mon Amore)”] on it. I thought, ‘Okay, well, there goes that.’ So it’s been gratifying, very much like with Grease 2, that the audience found the show and developed a genuine affection for it.”

Another source of amusement for the actor is the annual online celebration of Rex Manning Day every April 8. “I haven’t been doing social media for quite a while, but I could see via Twitter that the level of support for the film was enormous,” he said. “But at the end of the day, of course, it’s a celebration of the film, not Sexy Rexy. People love that motion picture, so that’s very much a validation that you did something that has stood the test of time. That’s something I take some pleasure in.”

Speaking of Grease 2, Maxwell is also touched by the enduring affection for that film, and saw it firsthand when he took part in Cool Rider, a one-night celebration of the songs and dances from that film, at the London Palladium in 2024. Caulfield portrayed the science teacher, Mr. Stuart. “It’s a massive venue — 1800 seats or whatever — and the place was packed to the rafters,” he relayed. “When I came on to play Mr. Stuart and sing “Reproduction!” — because obviously I could not play the high school boy — I made my entrance and I kind you not, I couldn’t get my first line out for five minutes. People just wanted to scream and holler and carry on like it was The Rocky Horror Picture Show. I was so moved by it. In this very freaky universe we’re residing in these days, it’s so reassuring to have things that warm your heart and make you not only remember the halcyon days of youth, but make you think that we’re all gonna get through this. With any luck, I look forward to still celebrating Rex Manning Day 20 years from now.”

Beyond the Gates: What a beautiful tribute to Derek. Was I the only one who got chills when they tolled the bells and signed him out with the fire department for his final call? I also enjoyed the scenes between Ashley and Derek’s dad Brian. Jen Jacob has done a beautiful job conveying Ashley’s grief…. I appreciated Bill and Ted sitting down to reminisce about those mandatory Dupree family events and Vernon’s “never-ending toasts.” It felt authentic and struck just the right nostalgic tone for both men…. The conversation between Tyrell and Martin about sex was well done, too… And Kat and Martin walking in on Anita and Vernon getting romantic made me chuckle.

The Bold and the Beautiful: A big welcome back to the Bikini Bar! It was a clever twist to have Deacon expand his restaurant empire, and after wondering where Deacon, Taylor and Sheila had disappeared to, it was nice to get some updates. Jessica, the hostess, is a fun new character getting some amusing lines. But, really? That punch Will gave R.J. didn’t seem as devastating as R.J. made it out to be. Getting Finn to examine in and then clutching his ice pack felt a little over the top. Also, Electra is into Will — accept it! ... Wyatt’s return was a chef’s kiss. The Spencers fell right back into their familiar, joking dynamic. It was great to see Darin Brooks again, but even better, Bill and Liam’s banter was back in top form…. And yay for Hope finally making her way to Logan!

Days of our Lives: It was a good Memorial Day touch to reference Philip’s past as a Marine…. It also felt right to see JJ, Jack and Jennifer in scenes at the Horton house. Jack and Jennifer’s talk about Abigail was especially poignant. Please bring the Deverauxes back full-time…. I was glad the show acknowledged the first anniversary of John’s death. Louis Tomeo did a solid job wen Aaron went to Sophia’s memorial, particularly during his scenes with the Chois. The same goes for Elia Cantu, when Jada had to explain to Amy how deep Sophia’s treachery ran…. And Chanel’s cancer? Really? As if Johnny and Chanel haven’t been through enough already? I just don’t get it.

General Hospital: I like that Jordan’s car accident has had real fallout. Curtis is facing serious charges because of his unhinged feelings toward Isaiah, who actually does have something to hide about Rocco. Meanwhile, Michael figured out that Brook Lynn was also driving a car that night, a revelation that could affect both her marriage to Chase and adoption of Phoebe. These stories need meaningful stakes to keep us invested, and this one delivers…. More Lucas/Carly scenes, please. Van Hansis and Laura Wright share such an effortless sibling chemistry…. The same goes for Giovanni Mazza and Tabyana Ali. Their Gio/Trina scenes have a natural, easygoing vibe that makes them enjoyable to watch…. And Tracy’s line to Ethan, “You Spencers love your fake passports,” was hilarious.

Young and Restless: Nick’s overdose scenes were chaotic in the best way, and really shifted the dynamics of the storyline. Now I’m curious to see where the show goes with Matt Clark. Amnesia Matt has entertaining chemistry with Phyllis and even Patty, though it’s hard to completely erase his past. Still, I’d love for the show to find a way to keep Roger Howarth around…. The scenes where Devon cautioned Lily about Cane were partifularly strong, as was the follow-up conversation between Abby and Devon as they discussed his visit with Mariah and finally got on the same page…. Clearly, something is up with Nikki and I’m interested to see what it means for her already fractured marirage to Victor. I also enjoyed the conversation between Victoria and Jack about Victor and Nikki.

MONDAY, JUNE 1

Beyond the Gates: Nicole decides to come clean with Ted about her fantasies; Shanice struggles with her grief; Andre confides his fears in Chelsea; and Naomi is unnerved by Jacob’s determination to avenge Derek’s death.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Will’s dangerous behavior has major consequences, and a devastated Electra learns what really went down at the Bikini party.

Days of our Lives: Lexie persuades Abe; Paulina supports Chanel; Gabi makes an offer; and Cat asks EJ for a favor.

General Hospital: Nina visits Brennan at Turning Woods; Laura and Sonny turn to Lucas; Ric advises Tracy; Dante confides in Liz; and Carly defends Lulu.

The Young and the Restless: Victor bargains with Nikki; Jack worries about Diane’s absence from Genoa City; and Nick leads the charge to jog Matt Clark’s memory.

TUESDAY, JUNE 2

Beyond the Gates: The Hawthornes celebrate one of their own; Izaiah issues an ultimatum; and Hayley’s actions keep Bill out of the family loop.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Deke is elated that his dreams are coming true, and Bill seizes an opportunity to bring Will into the family fold.

Days of our Lives: Marlena gives Xander an ultimatum; Joy opens up to Kate; Abe and Justin discuss the joys of fatherhood; and a difficult consultation leaves Chanel uneasy.

General Hospital: Michael manipulates Willow; Elizabeth makes a confession; Cullum delivers grim news; Nina makes her allegiances clear; and Sidwell is blindsided.

The Young and the Restless: Victor forces Nick to face his issues; Adam and Sally discuss her pregnancy; and Sharon questions Matt Clark’s change of heart.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

Beyond the Gates: Nicole seeks advice from Anita; Ted does his best to comfort an overwhelmed Eva; Naomi and Smitty have a long-overdue chat; and Tyrell and Jessica make a bold move.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Ridge makes an effort to grow closer with Hope, and Electra is caught in the middle of a Spencer vs. Forrester feud.

Days of our Lives: Xander is there for a devastated Sarah; Abe, Lexie and Theo enjoy family time; JJ and Javi bond; and Rolf gives EJ some disturbing news.

General Hospital: Lucas fears he’s said too much; Sonny lends a helping hand; Carly demands answers; and Chase receives an offer.

The Young and the Restless: Lily gives Devon some tough love; Sienna shares concerns about Noah’s new venture; and Nate helps Stephanie with a touch decision.

THURSDAY, JUNE 4

Beyond the Gates: Hayley and Randy discuss how their con against Bill began; Andre consoles Dani; Bill ruminates on his past and present romantic relationships; and Chelsea and Naomi compare notes on their parents’ rocky marriage.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Ridge and Steffy don’t see eye to eye; Dylan and Electra’s friendship is on the rebound; and Will and Katie share a tender moment.

Days of our Lives: Rafe and Ari question Gabi; Julie and Foster have a first date; Marlena, Belle and Brady celebrate John; and Roman and Kate reconnect.

General Hospital: “Nathan” gets a tempting offer; Ethan receives a warning; Nina tries to talk sense into Willow; Chase faces off with Tracy; and Josslyn tries a new strategy.

The Young and the Restless: Victor declares victory; Phyllis asks Michael to help clear her name; and Victoria worries about Nikki’s medical issues.

FRIDAY, JUNE 5

Beyond the Gates: Vernon secures the support of his trusted friend Victor Newman for the upcoming fundraiser, while Martin prepares for the Abbotts’ arrival; Joey and Randy prepare to meet The Impaler; and Grayson seeks Ashley’s forgiveness.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Battle lines are drawn between Brooke and Katie; Will contemplates joining Logan; and Steffy grows suspicious about Hope’s leave of absence.

Days of our Lives: EJ asks Theo to step in as Johnny’s second-in-command; Abe leans on Marlena for support; and Johnny urges Chanel to reconsider her choice.

General Hospital: Ava challenges Ethan; Brook Lynn enlists an ally; Alexis delivers happy news; Obrecht issues a warning; and Laura gets a win.

The Young and the Restless: Victor makes good on a promise to Lily; Holden and Audra are forced to face their past; and Sharon gives Phyllis the benefit of the doubt.

Check out these recent articles I’ve written for tvinsider.com and swooon.com