There’s a lot of exciting news about the planned All My Children movies being developed for Lifetime by Pine Valley alums Kelly Ripa (ex-Hayley) and husband Mark Consuelos (ex-Mateo).

Daytime Emmy winners Ron Carlivati and Jamey Giddens have scripted one of the films, while primetime writer Leo Richardson has penned the other. Susan Lucci (ex-Erica) and Eva LaRue (ex-Maria) are also attached to the project.

All My Children was one of the first soaps I watched. I had the privilege of covering it for Soap Opera Digest when Consuelos joined the soap in 1995. I vividly remember Kelly asking me, “Have you met my Mateo?” the first time I went to the set after he was cast.

The fact that Kelly and Mark recently celebrated 30 years of marriage — and are now celebrating the show that brought them together — says so much about who they are and what that connection has meant to them, and I couldn’t be more excited at the prospect of visiting Pine Valley again! What about you?

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As I reported exclusively for TV Insider, Kelly Sullivan (ex-Kate/Connie, General Hospital; ex-Sage, The Young and the Restless) has joined The Bold and the Beautiful. Kelly will play Darcy Dylan, the mother of Melissa Dylan (Sydney Bullock). She’ll arrive in Los Angeles on August 27 to help her daughter navigate the drama between the Forrester and Spencer families.

Laura Wright revealed on social media that she just signed a new contract to continue playing General Hospital’s Carly Spencer. “I’m not going anywhere,” she posted. “Phew,” replied her on-screen love interest, James Patrick Stuart (Valentin).

Days of our Lives Executive Producer Ken Corday and composer D. Brent Nelson, have released Days of our Lives (Original Score), a 21-song compilation of the show’s music cues featured during scenes. Track names include “Lurking in the Shadows”, “Resolutions” and “Someone’s Following Me”. The album is available on Amazon here (affiliate link**).

Alison Sweeney (Sami, Days) and Ashley Williams (ex-Dani, As the World Turns) are teaming up for a new holiday movie for Hallmark. Ali and Ashley, who previously worked together in 2025’s To Barcelona, With Love and To Barcelona, Forever, announced the news during a 92NY panel celebrating Hallmark Channel’s 25th anniversary. “We’re really excited about the story,” Ashley enthused.

John Oliver (Z, General Hospital) will make his Days debut this week as Devlin St. John, Salem’s chief water inspector, appearing in scenes with Jackée Harry (Paulina) and Dan Feuerriegel (EJ). Tune in on August 11, 12 and 14.

Mike Powers plays B&B’s Louis on Monday, August 10.

Brittany Bardwell appears as a flight attendant on B&B on Tuesday, August 11.

Elsa Esnoult returns as B&B’s Fanny on Tuesday, August 11.

Richard Zanca appears as Finn’s driver on B&B on Tuesday, August 11.

Lassana Lestin plays Sheila’s driver on B&B on Tuesday, August 11 and Wednesday, August 12.

Melodie Casta has been cast as Simone on B&B on Wednesday, August 12.

Ingrid De Bellis appears as a Monaco fan on B&B on Wednesday, August 12.

Arnaud Jouan plays a waiter on B&B on Wednesday, August 12.

Louis Tomeo is back as Days’s Aaron on Wednesday, August 12.

Sarah Bonrepaux appears as B&B’s Chloe on Friday, August 14.

Floriane Anderson plays a flight attendant on B&B on Thursday, August 13 and Friday, August 14.

Lucas Adams (Noah) and Tamara Braun (Sienna) exited the Y&R canvas last week, as their characters moved back to Los Angeles.

Newsletter-exclusive highlights from my recent interviews

Acting wasn’t always Troy Lennon Appel’s (Hudson, GH) life goal. In fact, he was aiming for something bigger.

“I really wanted to be a Power Ranger,” the soap newcomer told me before his debut. “I don’t think that's in the cards for me at this point, but when I found out that they weren’t real, I was like, ‘Okay, well, if I’ll never be a Power Ranger, maybe I can play one on TV.’ And then it was my sophomore year of high school that we had to do a film project for our English professor, and when we submitted our project, he looked at me — and this guy was terrifying — and in front of the whole class, he was like, ‘You can do this.’ And 16-year-old Troy was like, ‘Okay, sure, whatever.’”

That early experience planted the seed, but it was college that convinced Troy that it was a career he wanted to pursue. “I went to Muhlenberg College, and at the time, it was ranked the number one theater school in the country,” he explained. “So, I was like, ‘Oh, all right, if I’m going to try acting, I guess this isn’t a bad place to do it.’ I took one acting class, and I fell so in love with the craft and the art, and my favorite classes of all time were all the theater classes I took at Muhlenberg. I enjoyed every second of my experience at Muhlenberg and my teachings there.”

After graduating in 2015, Troy worked as a personal trainer while auditioning in New York City, before eventually making the move West. “Finally in 2019, after I built up a résumé and some reels, I moved out to L.A. to give this the best shot I could,” he relayed. “And that was almost seven years ago to the day. So, it’s been a while, but that was the whole journey that got me here.”

As an East Coaster, adjusting to life in Hollywood took a minute. “It was pretty drastic,” he recalled. “I love the seasons — fall and winter are my favorite — so that was an adjustment. But the hardest part is that all my family is on the East Coast. But my wife and I have really built a life out here that I’m very grateful to have. I love L.A. I love California. It doesn’t have the seasons that I want, but it gives me the career that I’ve always dreamed about, and I’m very grateful for that.”

Beyond the Gates: The walls are closing in on Hayley, and she doesn’t even know it yet — but I love it! Dani, Anita and Vanessa gossiping about Hayley and Kyle Abbott was great, as was Dani’s meetup with Chelsea, Kat and Naomi to dish about the new Mrs. Hamilton. Those scenes were fabulous. But seriously, don’t Randy and Hayley have somewhere better to meet than a public restaurant, where they casually discussed their plan to kill Bill at a booth by the door? Oh, and Dani calling Hayley “Mrs. Shamilton” to Randy made me chuckle, too.… It was nice to see the tender moment when Leslie opened up to Noah about Barbara…. I am happy Carlton saw Nicole and Kial together — something needed to give in that triangle. Their subsequent, mature conversation — where they agreed to remain friends — was another win for me…. Izaiah is such a good boyfriend to Eva and I appreciate how encouraging he is about her condition and her insecurities over her surgical scar. But speaking of that, she just had the transplant. It’s going to take months to heal, not weeks. Give it a minute!

The Bold and the Beautiful: I legitimately could watch scenes between Katie and Dylan all day. Heather Tom was absolutely perfect as the mama bear, calling Dylan out on everything she’s done to get between Will and Electra…. Speaking of Electra, she was right to end things with Will. Every interaction between them seems to end in tears, and then he was kissing Dylan five minutes later. But also, Dylan — you’re not in love with Will. You have a crush on him. There’s a difference. Of course, they’re in their 20s, so I get it all feels very heightened to them…. I’m hoping we’re going to see a different note for Sheila soon. Her begging — literally — to get back into Steffy and Finn’s lives is getting repetitive. Kimberlin Brown is far too talented to be stuck in a lather, rinse, repeat cycle…. And count me for the trip to Monaco this week! I love when the show goes on location and seeing our faves somewhere completely different.

Days of our Lives: Kristen posing as Susan to say goodbye to Rachel was a strange choice, especially given Rachel’s already precarious emotional state. Being a good mother is Kristen’s main priority and Rachel has dabbled on the shady side enough at her tender age that I have to think she would have kept her mother’s secret if Kristen had just revealed herself…. Amy Choi’s visit to Holly, where she basically said she hopes Holly is haunted by Sophia’s death for the rest of her life, was completely wild. I understand that she probably doesn’t want to admit that her daughter was troubled, but Sophia tortured Holly! Give this girl a break already…. And what life was Joy referring to when she told Kelsey she wanted to give her the one she didn’t have? Joy was conceived when Craig and Nancy were happily married, and she was raised in a house full of love. The Wesleys marriage didn’t end until Joy was an adult, so I’m not sure what version of her childhood we’re supposed to be remembering here.

General Hospital: The scenes where Jason explained to Sonny why he had to leave his employ were excellent. Putting Danny first and leaving the mob behind feels like a great new chapter for the character, and Sonny following suit was also an interesting twist. I’m curious to see where both of them go from here…. Anna telling Carly that she knew Josslyn was WSB was another great exchange. Finola Hughes (Anna) has been on fire since her return to the canvas…. Liz and Dante’s dynamic just so natural and effortless, and they’re so enjoyable to watch…. Josslyn giving Brennan the skinny on Nina was fun, and nice callback to the “Mike”/Nina story…. I appreciate how many tentacles the baby Phoebe story has had. Connecting newcomer Hudson to it just as Ethan exited was a clever way to introduce him, and adding the Jacks connection is intriguing…. Does GH have the cutest babies?! It was hard to focus on what Curtis was saying to his son because that sweet Desmond was looking at him so adorably!

Young and Restless: This felt like a big week of change in Genoa City, with a lot of stories being wrapped up. Victor and Nikki talking things out was lovely, especially when Nikki admitted she’s happy not to be running Chancellor anymore. I also liked her acknowledging why Victor gave grace to Matt and Phyllis. Victor’s amusing response — “Are we getting soft?” — made me smile…. Noah and Sienna headed back to L.A., leaving the club for Danny to run. I like the latter, but bummed about the former. Noah’s comeback feels very cut short…. Welcome back, Camryn Grimes (Mariah), but what a disappointment that the Tessa/Mariah reunion happened off camera…. Also off-camera — and another disappointment  — was the alleged arrest of Dr. Markham. Why? What was his actual deal? Will we ever know? I have questions! … It was fun to see Melissa Ordway, the show’s current Abby, in scenes with Hayley Erin (Claire), who played the character from 2008-2010…. And finally, is Billy okay?

MONDAY, AUGUST 10

Beyond the Gates: Hayley’s travel plans get derailed; Caroline rushes to Bill’s rescue; Dani’s slip of the tongue stuns her family; and Vanessa bonds with Heather.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Ridge, Brooke and Steffy work to strengthen Forrester’s international relations, and Electra and R.J. take on a new challenge together.

Days of our Lives: Stephanie makes a heartbreaking decision; Chanel offers Alex some perspective; Cat questions EJ; and Lani comforts a distraught Theo.

General Hospital: Jason tries to reason with Drew; Michael makes a promise; Josslyn shares news with Carly; and Brook Lynn is alarmed.

The Young and the Restless: Nick’s loved ones force him to face his demons.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11

Beyond the Gates: Bill has a request of Dani that enrages Hayley; Vernon demands answers from Joey; Nicole and Kial receive unsettling news; and Leslie reaches out to someone in need.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Finn convinces Steffy to stay away, and Brooke gets upsetting news from Fanny.

Days of our Lives: Belle makes her case to Marlena; Leo makes Dimitri a shocking offer; Chad asks Cat for a favor; and Theo hides the truth about Lexie from Abe.

General Hospital: Cody encounters Serena; Emma is disappointed; Nina runs interference; Jordan is caught off-guard; and Michael suffers a loss.

The Young and the Restless: Devon’s announcement surprises his family; Kyle sees a new side to Victoria; and Nick finds comfort from a new friend.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12

Beyond the Gates: Dani seeks Vanessa’s advice; Kat’s actions put her in Hayley’s crosshairs; Naomi and Tomas lock horns; and Martin and Smitty try to help Tyrell through heartbreak.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Deacon seizes an opportunity with Taylor, and Finn and Steffy reconnect in Monaco.

Days of our Lives: Aaron and Ari plan a surprise for Tate and Holly; Rachel opens up to Brady about Kristen; Xander makes a drastic decision; and Philip pitches a risky plan to Gabi.

General Hospital: Sonny prepares for battle; Drew relays his plan; Michael is stunned; Scout confides in Rocco; and Portia is conflicted.

The Young and the Restless: Cane warns Jack about Billy’s latest plan; Lily counsels Nate about returning to medicine; and Nick hits rock bottom.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13

Beyond the Gates: Andre has a tense visit with Bill; Smitty ponders an interesting opportunity; Ashley and Grayson worry about a friend in need; and Caroline and Hayley play each other.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Daphne expresses how much she loves Carter, and Ridge distracts Brooke with romance.

Days of our Lives: Dimitri refuses to give up on Leo; Rafe makes Gwen a tempting offer; Alex turns to Steve for help; and Marlena and Paulina lean on each other.

General Hospital: Willow is threatened; Anna sets a trap; Britt seeks out Rocco; Trina is left reeling; and Josslyn stands her ground.

The Young and the Restless: Victor and Nikki share their concerns about Nick, and Billy shares a secret with Jack and Kyle.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14

Beyond the Gates: Dani is in the hot seat with Anita, Vernon and Nicole; Joey confronts Heather; Chelsea updates Kate; and Andre is lured to a mysterious rendezvous.

The Bold and the Beautiful: Carter vows to help Daphne, and Steffy is overcome with emotions.

Days of our Lives: Cat receives troubling news; Theo and Chad make a devastating discovery; Johnny wrestles with his conscience; Lani comforts Abe; and EJ and Rita take drastic action.

General Hospital: Jason opens up to Carly; Tracy receives a shocking request; Brennan makes an offer; Danny asks Charlotte for help; and Molly presents Cody with an idea.

The Young and the Restless: Nikki keeps up appearances; Adam and Chelsea discuss unresolved feelings from their past; and Billy comes between Cane and Lily.

Classic soap moments from this week in daytime.

August 10: Martha Madison made her Days debut as Belle Black in 2004.

August 11: Dark Shadows transitioned from black and white to broadcast its first episode in color in 1967.

August 12: The Bold and the Beautiful’s Maya married Rick in 2015, making Maya the first transgender character in daytime to wed.

August 13: Maurice Benard made his first appearance as GH’s Sonny Corinthos in 1993,

August 14: GH’s Liz and Jason conceived son Jake in 2006.

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

Put your soap knowledge to the test!

This Week’s Question: A Martinez became a daytime superstar when he joined this soap on August 13, 1984. What was the soap and what was his character’s name?

Last Week’s Answer: Who did Y&R’s Nikki marry on August 3, 2012? Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman). Congratulations to Michelle W., who was the first to answer correctly.

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