Y&R Report (April 27, 2019): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet. Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance. 

This past week's episodes about Neil Winters' death were very poignant. The Young and the Restless should be commended for its heartfelt farewell to actor Kristoff St. John, who had played the role of  Neil since 1991.  The acting was especially realistic because cast members were definitely grieving over the premature death of the 52-year-old actor.  It was all very moving, especially the way Neil's passing affected Victor and Ashley and Jack.  Even The Great and Arrogant Victor Newman reacted to Neil's death in a very human way.  He actually admitted to Nikki that he had few friends like Neil.  As for Ashley Abbot, she expressed guilt and remorse that she didn't keep in contact with Neil more often.  I was surprised that she didn't visit him in person to tell him of her plans to move to Paris.  She just gave him a quick phone before catching a plane.  Jack spoke of how Neil helped him when he was on the brink of swallowing pills and lauded Neil for always being there for him.  Ashley and Jack were so heartbroken over Neil's passing that they called  a truce to end their sibling rivalry.

I was pleased to see the return of Shemar Moore as Neil's wayward brother, Malcolm Winters.  Malcolm, a globetrotting photographer, has never really put down roots.  He has always been very different from Neil and had some very strong feelings about his elder sibling.  The eulogies delivered at Neil's funeral were very touching and they expressed how Neil influenced people's lives in positive ways.  The same actors who spoke at the funeral later reminisced about Kristoff St. John and how he affected them the same way in real life  It was a treat to view all the flashbacks of Kristoff through the years.  It was a trip down memory lane.  It was wonderful to see Victoria Rowell (Drucilla) again.  She and Kristoff had such magic onscreen chemistry.  It was also a bonus that Eileen Davidson (Ashley) stuck around for a while.

The scenes showing the opening of Devon and Abby's new restaurant were great.  The restuarant was named Society" and it should be the location of a lot of Genoa City drama in the future.  There should be some fantastic parties there and let's hope they have some good singers.

Well, the Snowflake had a meltdown over Kyle and Lola.  Kyle wants the freedom to be with Lola, but Summer isn't going to make it easy for him.  There wouldn't be any conflict if she did.  Besides, Snowflake is Phyllis' daughter and she can be a real chip off the old block.  Summer is a woman scorned, and you know what they say about a woman scorned.  Why doesn't Lola just move on and forget about Kyle.  She should find someone else because he'll always be connected to Summer.

Lola won't move on, though, because there wouldn't we any conflict if she did.  What's with the knife Summer gave Lola as a gift when the restaurant opened?  Will the knife be used in an attack sparked by the Kyle/Lola/Summer love triangle?  That's possible or maybe it has no future significance at all.

Victor Newman has nothing but disdain for Billy Boy Abbott, although he's never really liked any of the men in Princess Victoria's life.  He got along with J.T. for a brief time when J.T.was head of security at Newman Enterprises.  As soon as J.T. left Newman Enterprises, he was back in Victor's bad books because he was not under Victor's control anymore.  Billy is right.  It's about time Princess Victoria got out from under Victor's thumb and took control of her own life.  Otherwise, her father will continue to ruin her relationships with men.

It seems as if her daddy is up to his old tricks again.  As soon as Neil's funeral ended, Victor informed Nikki that he had to leave again and refused to give her an explanation.  He just shut her out.  The man is incorrigible.  This time his behaviour is probably related to his son, Adam, whom we know is returning to Genoa City.  Why couldn't he share the secret with Nikki?


Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

I am not a fan of Cait Fairbanks's (Tessa Porter's) singing.  It's okay, but it just doesn't do anything for me.  What do you think, fans?  Do you like Cait's music?  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Do you enjoy Tessa's music?

Yes, she is a talented singer.

Her voice is just okay, nothing special.

No, I do not like her voice at all.

I don't know.

Other

Please Specify:

Survey Maker | Make Surveys in Minutes | PollMaker

Readers, I would appreciate your feedback.  Please let me know what you think about the show.

If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca

That's all for now.  Please remember that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, May 11, 2019.


- Joanne

Farewell Georgia Engel. We'll miss you, Georgette!

Sad news indeed!  Georgia Engel, best known for her portrayal of Georgette Franklin Baxter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show. has passed away.  She died on April 12, 2019 in Princeton, New Jersey at the age of 70.  Georgia was a wonderful comedic actress and during her career, she garnered five Primetime Emmy nominations.  Her most distinctive characteristic was her soft, gentle, childlike voice, which retired Toronto Star theatre critic Richard Ouzounian likened to that of an angel who has "just sniffed some helium."  Her voice was her trademark and when she became angry, it was difficult not to laugh.

Georgia Bright Engel was born in Washington, D.C. on July 28, 1948, the daughter of Ruth Caroline (née Hendron) and Benjamin Franklin Engel, a Coast Guard Admiral.  In 1966, Georgia graduated from high school at the Academy of Washington Ballet in Washington, D.C.  She intended to become a ballerina.before deciding on a career as an actress.  In her IMDb.com profile, Georgia is quoted as saying the following: : "As a young teenager when I was attending ballet school, my teacher told me I'd never be a ballerina. and I was never much of a singer, but I get leading roles in musical theater because of the comedy.  I consider comedy a special gift to me.  So many people ask if I hate doing similar roles but I try to explain that even within the specialized areas of light comedy and ditzy blondes, there are wonderful nuances that are infinitely interesting to me."

 After high school, Georgia performed in summer stock and then joined her family in Honolulu, Hawaii.  She earned a degree in drama from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 1969 and then  returned to Washington, D.C. where she performed in musical productions with the American Light Opera Company.  She later appeared off-Broadway in Lend an Ear and at the age of 22, made her Broadway debut as Minnie Fay in the original Broadway production of Hello Dolly!.

In 1971, Mary Tyler Moore and her then-husband, producer Grant Tinker saw Georgia perform when the off-Broadway production of The House of Blue Leaves played in Los Angeles.  They were impressed by how funny she was and a few months later, she was summoned to the MTM Studios and asked to play a role created especially for her.  She made her mark as the seemingly naive Georgette Franklin, girlfriend and eventual wife of pompous anchorman Ted Baxter (Ted Knight) on Mary's TV show.  However, Georgette was not your garden variety stereotypical "dumb blonde."  Although often underestimated, she possessed a certain wisdom.  "The writers had fun with that," Engel told the San Francisco Examiner in 2017.  "She looked like the dumbest one of the group and sometimes they'd have her say the wisest thing."

The Mary Tyler Moor Show ran from 1970 until 1977, but Georgia Engel,did not join the cast until the sitcom's third season in 1972.  Her "Georgette" character first appeared in an episode entitled "Rhoda Morgestern:  Minneapolis to New York" (Season 3, Episode 14, Air Date: December 16, 1972).  In the episode, Mary Richards (Mary Tyler Moore) plans a farewell party for her friend Rhoda (Valerie Harper) who has decided to accept a job at Bloomingdale's in New York.  Georgette, Rhoda's co-worker, shows up at the party as Ted's new girlfriend.  Her interaction with Mary's gruff boss, Lou Grant (Edward Asner) is hilarious.

Georgia Engel's role as Georgette was originally intended to be for a single episode of The Mary Tyler Moore Show.  In a 2007 interview with the Toronto Star, Georgia provided the following explanation for how she became a regular cast member:  "It was only going to be one episode and I was just supposed to have a few lines in a party scene, but they kept giving me more an more to do."  The following Monday, she received a potted plant with a note welcoming her to the Mary Tyler Moore family.

Georgette had a heart of gold and she made the blustery, buffoonish Ted a better person.  My favourite Georgette quote occurred in a scene when Mary asks Georgette if she knows what she is doing by marrying Ted.  She replies, "Yes.  Somebody has to love him."  In other words, Georgette was not so naive that she was unaware of Ted's many flaws, but she was willing to accept him for what he was.  She also recognized his better qualities.

Of co-star Ted Knight, who passed away in 1986, Georgia told the Toronto Star that she "liked him very much, but to tell the honest truth, the writers took a kernel of truth from all of us and then magnified it in our characters.  Ted never recovered from (series co-creator) Allan Burns asking him, 'How does it feel to be the country's biggest schmuck?"

Wedding of Ted and Georgette

After The Mary Tyler Moore Show ended in 1977, Georgia Engel had roles in three short-lived series: The Betty White Show (1977-78) along with Betty played who Sue Ann Nivens on The MTM Show, Goodtime Girls (1980) and Jennifer Slept Here (1993-1994).  From 1991 until 1997, Georgia portrayed Shirley Burleigh on the hit football-themed comedy Coach.

Georgia reprised her role as Georgette for a 1992 episode of the sitcom Hi Honey, I'm Home.  In the episode, entitled "Elaine Takes a Wife" (Season 2, Episode 7, Air Date: July 19, 1992), Georgette teaches a motivational course.

In 2000, Georgia'mother died and she took a break from acting.  She trained to be a careguver in the mission facility part of her church, but found that "my gift was more for changing laughter than bedpans."

In 2001, Georgia returned to the stage and toured with I Dream of Jeannie's Barbara Eden in the female version of The Odd Couple.  From 2003 to 2005, Georgia played Pat MacDougal, mother-in-law of Robert Barone (Brad Garrett), on Everybody Loves Raymond.  Upon learning of Georgia's death, her Raymond co-star Patricia Heaton tweeted "I am in shock.  Georgia was an absolute angel - so dear, so sweet, so talented."

In more recent years, Georgia Engel worked largely in theatre and lived in New York City.  In 2007, however, she appeared as  Ezmerialda in six episodes of the soap opera Passions. She also portrayed  Irene in three 2012 episodes of The Office.  From 2012 to 2016, she had a recurring role on the sitcom Hot in Cleveland, where she was reunited with her Mary Tyler Moore Show co-star Betty White. In fact, she played Mamie Sue Johnson, the best friend of Betty's character, Elka.  After Georgia's death, the 97-year-old White posted this tribute to her on Instagram: "Friends forever says it all."  The two women were animal lovers and Betty's tribute to Georgia was accompanied by a photo of the pair snuggling against a bear.

Georgia final television credit was a 2018 appearance as Sister Barbara on a an episode of the remake of One Day at a Time entitled "Homecoming" (Season 2, Episode 11, Air Date: January 26, 2018).

Georgia Engel never married and did not have any children.  She is survived by her two older sisters, Robin Engel (Miss Hawaii of 1967) of Canyon Lake, Texas and Penny Lusk of Cheriton, Virginia,  numerous nieces and nephews and two aunts.

Georgia was an adherent of Christian Science.  Her friend, John Quilty, informed The New York Times that the cause of her death was unknown since, due to her religious beliefs, she did not seek advice from doctors.  Her funeral home obituary states that she died of "natural causes."

In an Archive of American Television interview, Ed Asner had this to say about Georgia Engel: "She doesn't belong on this Earth.  She's too good for this Earth.  And in a way, she shows how angels can defy desecration by mankind.


SOURCES

Closer Weekly, "Remembering the Late Georgia Engel from 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and 'Everybody Loves Raymond'' by Ed Gross, April 16, 2019; San Francisco Examiner, "Georgia Engel explores sounds of silences in 'John" by Robert Sokol, March 2, 2017; Toronto Star, "Drowsy woke Engel's career" by Richard Ouzounian, October 10, 2007, Wickipedia; IMDb.com; Yahoo News


- Joanne

Y&R Report (April 13, 2019): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet young and the restless global tv. Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance. 

Wow!  There have been big changes on the  since Josh Griffith replaced Mal Young as head writer.  Summer has transformed herself into the patient and devoted wife of Kyle.  young and the restless global tv Billy Boy Abbott is about to propose to Princess Victoria and Jack is back in the driver's seat at Jabot. Lily is going to be released from prison and she wants to start a new life without husband Cane young and the restless global tv. There is a new Dr. Nate Hastings.  Two members of the Rosales family are leaving - Arturo and Mia.  I won't miss Arturo much, but I will miss Mia's antics.  Although she's a pain, she can also be funny and feisty,  Deep down, she's vulnerable and insecure.  By the way, in a previous edition of Y&R Report, I predicted that Mia would actually be having a baby and that Arturo would be the papa.  I wonder if those two will go off into the sunset together.

Although it seems as if  The Young and the Restless is raiding the cast of General Hospital, Y&R is taking back two actors who left the show for GH - Michelle Stafford (Phyllis) and Greg Rikkart (Kevin) - see "Casting News" below.  There is also a rumour that Billy Miller (ex-Billy Abbott) will also return to Y&R.  It's just speculation, although and I doubt it will happen.  Most viewers have gotten used to Jason Thompson in the role of Billy by now.

The show has gotten raunchier since Griffith took over the reins., especially where Nick Newman is concerned.  Nick has become downright sleazy.  He has all that money and the treasured "Newman" name.  Yet, he is very unhappy and empty.  His life is shallow.  As for his sister, Princess Victoria, she dipped into the sleaze in Las Vegas with  rocker Brandon Rose of the up-and-coming band Bloody Thorns (Where did they ever get those names?).

What's going on with Victor Newman?  Why was he in Las Vegas and why did he pay for the services of a psychiatrist?  He urged Nikki to be patient and told her that everything would be revealed in due time young and the restless global tv.  Victor has a history of pulling disappearing acts.  This one must be related to Adam.  Victor has probably tracked Adam down.  That makes sense since Y&R has cast Mark Grossman as the new Adam.  Could it be that it's the younger Newman who requires psychiatric help?  Has Adam had more facial surgery?  He couldn't have escaped the explosion unscathed.

Thanks to Traci, we finally know what's wrong with Candy Cane Ashby.  The Australian keeps messing up because he has low self-esteem.  He doesn't feel he's worthy of Lily young and the restless global tv, partly because he's the son of a criminal - Colin Atkinson.

I'm looking forward to the opening of Devon and Abby's new restaurant. It should be fun.  Speaking of Devon, his storyline is becoming more interesting.  I can see him in a love triangle with Jett's niece, Elena, and Dr. Nate.

Just as Gina Tognoni is leaving the role of Phyllis, her character has reached a low point.  Her relationships with Billy and Nick fell apart.  She's was ousted as CEO of Jabot by the Abbots.  Her attempt to blackmail Jack into letting Lauren take back Fenmore's failed miserably.


VIEWER FORUM

If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca

I spoke to regular Y&R viewer, Helen from Scarborough, Ontario.  Helen is astounded at how quickly Victoria Newman became a poker shark.  

CAST NEWS
Shocker!  Gina Tognoni is out and Michelle Stafford is back as Phyllis

   

Gina Tognoni

In a surprising casting change, Michelle Stafford will be returning to the role of Phyllis Summers on The Young and the Restless.  According to Daytime Confidential, Michelle could not reach a contractual agree with General Hospital, where she played the role of Nina Clay.  Y&R reportedly jumped at the chance to get her, which left the current "Phyllis." Gina Tognoni out in the cold.

Gina Tognoni took over the role of Phyllis from Michelle in 2014. She received an Outstanding Lead Actress Daytime Emmy in 2017.  On her Instagram post, Gina graciously thanked Y&R viewers for their love and support.  She wrote that she is "beyond grateful for the creative experience  that The Young and the Restless has given" her.  Gina will surely get other acting roles, but she will be missed by Y&R fans.


Greg Rikaart is returning as Kevin Fisher

Y&R has confirmed that Greg Rikaart is returning to the role of troubled Kevin Fisher.  Greg originated the role of Kevin back in 2003.  He received the Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 2005.  In 2017, however, he was taken off contract.  After his departure from Y&R, Greg played Leo Stark on General Hospital for about a year.

So, how will Kevin's return to Genoa City affect Y&R's storyline?  Well, the details have not been revealed yet, but I expect that his reappearance will be linked to Adam's imminent return.  When we last saw Kevin, he had moved to Portland, Oregon with the presumed-dead Chloe Mitchel (Elizabeth Hendrickson) and their daughter, Bella.  There is no indication that Elizabeth will also be returning  as Chloe.  She is currently portraying Margaux Dawson on General Hospital; but with the way Y&R has been snatching actors away from GH, one never knows.



Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Michelle Stafford

Fans, how do feel about the return of Michelle Stafford as Phyllis?  I feel ambivalent.  I am delighted that Michelle is returning, but I'm sad that her return has necessitated the departure of Gina Tognoni.  Gina has been terrific in the role.  Let me know what you think by responding to the poll below.

Are you pleased that Michelle Stafford is back as Phyllis?

Yes, I am please Michelle Stafford is returning, although I will miss Gina Tognoni.

It doesn't make much difference to me because I think Michelle and Gina are both good in the role.

No, I am not pleased because I prefer Gina Tognoni.

I don't know.

Other

Please Specify:

Free Survey Maker | Make Surveys in Minutes | PollMaker

That's all for now.  Don't forget that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on April 27, 2019.  I'm looking forward to the week of tribute to Kristoff St. John  (Neil Winters), beginning on Thursday, April 25 on CBS and Wednesday, April 24 on Global TV in Canada.  Thankfully, a new actor will not be taking over the role of Neil.  Neil's death will be revealed and a funeral will be held for him on April 25 on CBS and April 24 on Global TV.  Kristoff's longtime real life friend, Stan Shaw, will play the pastor presides over Neil's funeral.  In 1979, the two starred together in the TV miniseries Roots.  The non-scripted tribute episode to Kristoff will take place on Monday, April 29th with Shemar Moore (Malcolm Winters), Victoria Rowell (Drucilla Winters, Mishael Morgan (Hilary Curtis Hamilton, Christel Khalil (Lily Winters Ashby) and Eileen Davidson (Ashley Abbott).

To all who celebrate, I wish you a Happy Easter and a Happy Passover.  


- Joanne

The BBC's 1957 April Fools' Day Joke

Since it's April Fools' Day, it would be appropriate to remember what CNN has described as "the biggest hoax that any reputable news establishment ever pulled."  On April 1, 1957, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) broadcast a 3-minute report on its flagship current affairs show, Panorama, narrated by distinguished broadcaster Richard Dimbleby.  It featured farmers from the canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland as they harvested spaghetti from a "spaghetti tree."  Women were shown picking strands of spaghetti from a tree and laying them in the sun to dry.

In 1957, about 44 per cent of the homes in Britain had televisions.  Many Britons actually believed the "spaghetti tree" story to be true and Richard Dimbleby's participation in the caper served to add credibility to the  hoax.  After all, Dimbleby was a respected journalist.  He was the BBC's first war correspondent at the outbreak of World War II and its leading news commentator.  He was trusted.  Keep in mind also that in the 1950s, spaghetti not really a widely-eaten food in the United Kingdom.  It was considered an exotic delicacy and many were unaware that it was made from wheat flour and water.  That is why so so many Panorama viewers contacted the BBC for advice on growing their own "spaghetti trees."  Some inquired as to where they could purchase their own "spaghetti bush."

Richard Dimbleby of the BBC

Not everyone was amused by the BBC's April Fools' Day prank.  Many criticized the BBC for airing such an item on a factual public affairs show.  According to the BBC's report at the time, the "spaghetti tree" stunt was believed to be "one of the first times the medium of television had been used to stage an April Fools' Day hoax.

Click on the link below to watch  a video of the 1957 BBC April Fools Day hoax.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVo_wkxH9dU


- Joanne

Y&R Report (March 30, 2019): The Latest on The Young and the Restless:

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet. Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.   

Finally!  The J.T. Hellstrom mystery has come to an end.  The story he told of his  escape from being buried alive was rather convoluted. The women were unaware that they had buried him on top of an old storm pipe.  With each pile of dirt, they added more weight until the pipe caved in and J.T. found himself in a rush of sewer water and dumped into a river.  Somehow he managed to get himself out of the water.  Only on a soap . . .

We also learned that J.T. had had a benign brain tumour.  According to Dr. Nate, the tumour may have contributed to J.T.'s erratic behaviour and his violent actions. He did, however, accept responsibility for his actions.  The police burst into his hospital room, arrested him and took him to the prison infirmary.

It was so good to see the return of Doug Davidson as Paul Williams. Viewers still haven't been given any explanation for Paul's absence, but it may be forthcoming.  The Genoa City police chief just reappeared as if he'd never been away. He showed a toughness and no-nonsense attitude that I've never seen in him before.  He reprimanded Rey and then fired him. He was also upset with Sharon, but did not fire her.  Sharon, however, resigned her position with the Genoa City Police Dept. as a sacrifice to show her support for Rey.

As for Rey, he deserved to be fired.  He may enjoy being a detective, but he doesn't seem to be a good one.  He really bungled the J.T. investigation and he allowed his personal life to interfere with his duties as an officer of the law.  Some may argue that his actions were noble and romantic, that he sacrificed his job and his marriage for Sharon.  However, Rey put a lot of lives at risk, including that of his beloved Sharon.  Nikki, Victoria and Sharon could have all been killed by J.T.  What would happen if  all detectives acted in such a manner?

Arturo had a very bad day.  He confessed to Abby about his dalliance with sister-in-law Mia.  In her rage at him, Abby smashed his prized truck with a hammer, including the windows and headlights.  While Arturo was still reeling from what Abby had done, brother Rey came along and punched him, informing him that he knew about him and Mia.  Arturo tried to win Abby back with roses, but he should have known that wouldn't work.  As Abby put it, all the flowers in the world wouldn't have worked.

Abby isn't the only mad smasher in Genoa City.  Princess Victoria Newman threw a vase and glasses because she was frustrated about her son Reed.  Reed blamed her for not being honest with him about J.T. and then didn't come home.  Victoria seems very confused and her life is really a mess.  That's why she left town, to get away from all the pressure.  According to a Y&R preview and online spoilers, she has gone to Las Vegas and is using a fake name there.  In Vegas, she will meet a musician named Brandon and become a groupie.  Her social media posts will shock Nikki and Billy and they will become very concerned about her.

Candy Cane Ashby just can't get it right and Lily has served him with divorce papers.  Even after suffering the consequences of his shenanigans with Juliet in Japan, Cane kissed Victoria while Lily was in prison.  Will he ever learn?

Eileen Davidson returned as Ashley Abbot for a visit.  I enjoyed seeing her again.  Boy, did she visit create some shock waves.  Kerry (or should I say Dominique) is a piece of work.  She's such a phony.  She rally played Jack.Abbott.  However, Jack is CEO of Jabot again and Phyllis has been turfed out.  I'm glad that Jack is CEO again, although Ashley is just as capable. It's just that she lives in Paris now and Eileen Davidson has left the show.

According to online spoilers, Jack and Phyllis are going to connect again.  I've always liked them together.  I just wonder how it will happen after Jack kicked her our of the CEO chair at Jabot.



CAST NEWS

Kristoff St. John (Neil Winters) honoured with special tribute on Y&R

Good news!  There is going to be a much-deserved special tribute to the late Kristoff St. John, who played Neil Winters on Y&R from 1991 until his passing on February 3, 2009 at the age of 52. According to TMZ, a Los Angeles coroner's report regarding St. John's cause of death revealed that the actor died from heart disease and an accidental alcohol overdose.  He had been agonizing over the suicide of his son and had received treatment.

Many fans, including myself, had been disappointed at the lack of substantial tribute to Kristoff.  It appears that our voices have been heard.  S.W.A.T. star Shemar Moore will reprise his role as Neil's brother Malcolm for two episodes in April   Presumably, the episodes will deal with Neil's fate as it does seem as if another actor will take over the role.  In addition to the the Shemar Moore episodes, former Y&R stars Victoria Rowell (Drucilla) and Mishael Morgan (Hilary) will return for a special tribute episode on April 29th (CBS) and April 26 (Global TV in Canada).  Victoria Rowell and Mishael Morgan will obviously not play their respective roles since Drucilla and Hilary are both dead.  They will reminisce about Kristoff St. John and flashbacks will be shown. Eileen Davidson (Ashley) and Christel Khalil (Lily) are also included in the episode. Tonya Lee Williams, who played Drucilla's sister Olivia, will not participate in the special tribute as she is working on a project, likely in Toronto, where she founded the Reelworld Film Festival, which screens films and offers professional development for Canadian racially diverse and indigenous filmmakers and artists in the media.



Sean Dominic is the new Nate Hastings

Sean Dominic

Sean Dominic will take over the role of Dr. Nate Hastings from Brooks Darnell.  No reason has been given for Darnell's rather abrupt departure.  Dominic. a newcomer to daytime television, will make his first appearance as Dr. Nate on Wednesday, April 10 on CBS (Tuesday April 9 on Global TV).  I think there may be a love triangle in which Devon and Nate will compete for the affections of Elena, who has been recently introduced to the show.  She is Ana's father's niece and has been looking after the ailing singer.

The new head writer, Josh Griffith, is taking the show in a new direction.  So far, Dr. Nate, as played by Brooks Darnell, hasn't had much of a storyline.  Perhaps, Griffith thinks that he is not suited to the direction he wants the character to go.  That may be why he's being replaced by Sean Dominic.

Sean Dominic has portrayed Jabari Johnson on the OWN series Greenleaf.  He has also had roles on Code 13: Unreadable, Situationships, Makeup X Breakup, and According to Him + Her.

'
The role of Adam Newman has been recast

Mark Grossman

Many Y&R fans have been clamouring for the return of Adam Newsman.  Well, they've got their wish.  Victor Newman's troublemaking son is returning to Genoa City, but none of the three actors - Chris Engen, Michael Muhney and Justin Hartley - who previous portrayed Adam will be returning to the role.

Sources have confirmed to SoapCentral that the new Adam will be Mark Grossman.  Grossman was born in Columbia, Marlyland, but later moved west to Phoenix, Arizona and Los Angeles, California.  He became involved in theatre at a young age and has also modelled.  Grossman's credits include his roles as Shane in the TV series Famous in Love, Dan in the TV series Hustle and Lukas in the 2014 TV movie Family Dinner.  He was also in the 2016 feature film Durant's Never Closes along with Tom Sizemore, Dina Meyer and Pam Grier.

It will be fun to see how Y&R's writers explain how Adam survived being trapped in a cabin that Chloe exploded in flames.  They'll find a way, just as they did with J.T.  However, there are still a lot of loose ends.  What about Chelsea, Adam's wife?  She a fugitive on the run with their child, Connor.  Victor Newman certainly hasn't forgotten about his grandson.  Perhaps Melissa Claire Egan will return as Chelsea.

Mark Grossman will be under a great deal of pressure because he has big shoes to fill.  The actors who previously played Adam were fan favourites and wildly popular.  If fans don't think he measures up to their expectations, there will be much disappointment and many complaints.  I wish him luck.



Jason Canela (Arturo Rosales) is leaving Y&R

Jason Canela is leaving his role as Arturo Rosales.  His contract has ended.  Now that Abby has dumped him, he'll probably return to Miami.  What about the rest of the Rosales family?  Rey is blissfully happy with Sharon for the time being.  Mia has been rejected by both Rey and Arturo. She's very much alone, but what about her fake pregnancy.  Rey still believes she's having a baby.  He conveniently hasn't mentioned that to Sharon yet.  How will she react to that?

Lola will stick around because she's involved in the opening of the new restaurant.  Also, she and Kyle are going to be pining over each other.

Y&R actors win five Daytime Emmy nominations

The 46th Daytime Emmy Awards ceremony will take place on May 5, 2019 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California  Five actors from The Young and the Restless have been nominated.  They are as follows:

Peter Bergman (Jack Abbott) for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series,

Bryton James (Devon Hamilton) for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, 

Beth Maitland (Traci Abbott) and Mishael Morgan (Hilary Curtis Hamilton) for Outstanding Suppoting Actress in a Drama Series

Zach Tinker (Fenmore Baldwin) for Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series

Y&R has also been nominated for Outstanding Daytime Drama.



Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Did Arturo deserve what Abby did to him?  Let me know what you think by responding to the poll below.

What did you think of Abby smashing Arturo's truck?

Arturo deserved it for two-timing her with Mia.

He acted like a jerk but she didn't have to be so childish.

I think that they are both immature. They need to grow up.

I don't know.

Other

Please Specify:

Make a Quiz in Minutes | Quiz Maker

Readers, I would appreciate your feedback

If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca

That's all for now.  Please note that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, April 13, 2019.                                                                                                                                               

- Joanne   

Internet TV Digest #11

    

This is the eleventh of an occasional feature on TV Banter called Internet TV Digest.  Internet TV Digest contains recent news, information and discussion about online television.

Internet TV Digest

What's coming to Netflix?

This April, Netflix is full of stories about unicorns, zombies and other creatures.   For unicorn lovers, Brie Larson, of Captain Marvel fame, and Samuel Jackson, star in the film Unicorn Store, a  whimsical comedy about a painter whose dream of adopting a unicorn comes to fruition.  The film marks Larson's directorial debut.and is available to stream on April 5, 2019.  For zombie lovers, there's Netflix's new zombie series, Black Summer.  Black Summer chronicles the adventures of a team of special forces in their quest to rid the world of flesh-eating creatures.  It will be available beginning on April 11th.

British television personality Bear Grylls stars in a choose-your-adventure TV series, consisting of eight interactive episodes.  It is a called You vs. Wild  and will allow viewers to follow Grylls's outdoor adventures around the world.  They will make Grylls' decisions in each episode and see how their choices turn out.  You vs. Wild will be available for streaming on April 10th.  It is the second interactive live project from Netflix after the highly popular Black Mirror: Bandersnatch.

Bear Grylls   PHOTO ATTRIBUTION: 

                                                        www.jamiegrayphotography.co.uk

If you're looking for comedy, Kevin Hart: Irresponsible, a Netflix Original Stand-up Special will be available on April 2nd.  Another Netflix Original Stand-up Special, Ricardo Quevedo: Los amargados somos más will be available on April 3rd.  On April 12th, Netflix will present an original movie, A Land Imagined.  A Land Imagined is the story of a construction worker from China who disappears at a Singapore land reclamation site.  A police detective must put himself inside the mind of the missing migrant in order to solve the mystery.

Academy Award-winning actress Olivia Colman (The Favourite) will take over the role of Queen Elizabeth from Claire Foy when The Crown begins Season 3 of Netflix's royal biopic.  Tobias Menzies will assume the role of the Queen's husband, Prince Philip.  Season 3 of The Crown is expected to be released sometime in 2019, although Netflix has yet to confirm the exact date.  Filming began in July 2018, with the principal filming wrapping up on February 24, 2019.


SOURCES: Geek.com, RadioTimes, The Verge.com


What's coming to Amazon Prime?

April on Amazon Prime brings the second season of The Tick, a superhero comedy based on the comic book character of the same name. It will be available for streaming on April 5th.  Coming on April 19th is the fifth season of Bosch, a crime series based on the Michael Connelly novels about a Los Angeles homicide detective.  In addition, last year's well-received post-apocalyptic horror film, A Quiet Place, will be available beginning on April 2nd.

Source: Digital Trends.com

Comcast will soon launch $5 a month streaming TV service

On March 26, 2019, Comcast will begin a $5 streaming Xfinity Flex TV video service.  However, the new service is restricted to the company's Xfinity subscribers  who live within its coverage area   As of January 2019, Comcast had about 25 million Internet subscribers who are eligible to take advantage of the company's Flex offering.  If they choose to pay $5 monthly, they will be given a leased Internet-connected, 4K HDR-ready box and voice-activated remote control.  This will provide them with access to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO and showtime, as well as thousands of online movies and commercial television shows.  Some live streaming will also be included from ESPN, Pluto, Tubi TV, YouTube and others.  You will also be able to purchase or rent films and television shows and listen to music by means of Pandora, Xite and others.


SOURCE: USA Today


Netlix films will not be shown at the Cannes Film Festival in May

Once again, Netflix films will not be shown at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in May.  In 2018, a new rule was implemented that only permitted films with theatrical distribution in France to compete at Cannes. Variety reported that Ted Sarandos, Netflix's chief content officer, met with Cannes artistic director Thierry Fremaux to discuss the matter.  Although the discussion was reported to be positive, no agreement was reached.  Therefore, Netflix releases will not be shown at this year's festival.  Last year, Netflix was forced to debut the Oscar-winning film Roma at the Venice festival instead of at Cannes.

SOURCE: Independent


- Joanne

Y&R Report (March 16, 2019): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet. Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.   

Well, well, well!  The judge threw the book at Nikki, Victoria and Sharon - 30 hears for Nikki, ten years for Princess Victoria and three years for Sharon.  Those three received the harshest of sentences, while the fourth member of the unlikely quartet, Phyllis Summers, got off scot-free.  No wonder Phyllis is so unpopular.  She regards her self as the town pariah and she has admitted to  Kerry Johnson that she has few friends.  I wonder why?  (Phyllis seems to get along well with fellow troublemaker Mia.  They seem cut from the same cloth.  Maybe they'll form an unholy alliance, although there only loyalty is to themselves)..

We all know that those long prison sentences for Nikki, Victoria and Sharon can't stand.  Those three characters cannot remain in jail for all those years.  The only way they can all be freed is if J.T. turns up alive and J.T.'s got to be alive!  I am more convinced than ever that he's is still among the living and that he will reveal himself soon.  Thad Luckinbill, who portrays J.T. was spotted at the Y&R studio.  In addition. J.T. would be the most likely to be stalking the Newman family and setting up cameras to spy on them?  J.T. is a surveillance expert.  Remember too that  little Katie Newman Abbot's "imaginary friend" sang J.T.'s song to her.

Actually, tt doesn't seem as if Nikki, Victoria and Sharon are going to serve any prison time at all.  With Rey's assistance, Nick and Billy have hidden the three women at the Abbot cabin.  Nick is convinced that J.T. is alive and he and Billy and Rey want to lure him out of hiding.  Apparently, according to an online spoiler, Victors will come up with a plan to trap J.T.  Of course, Victor will be the hero.  Like the Road Runner, he never loses.  Give Nick Newman credit for being on the right track about J.T. being alive.  He's more astute than Rey.  In all this time, Rey has never come close to figuring that J.T. may still be alive.  Some detective!

Methinks Summer Newman is a little too conceited.  Our favourite Snowflake actually said that she could have any many she wanted, but that she chose Kyle.  What Summer doesn't truly realize is that she's not Kyle's first choice.  She was only able to get him to marry her because he wanted to save Lola's life.  Kyle may be grateful to her for saving Lola, but gratitude is not enough.  Not only that, but sooner or later, Summer will do something underhanded that will really anger Kyle.  Why?  Because she's the Snowflake and she's her mother's daughter.  

As Mariah predicted, Summer's hasty wedding to Kyle Abbot will blow up in her face.  That farce of a marriage is going to end up in disaster for all concerned.  Summer couldn't have made her liver donation with no strings attached.  She's not that selfless.  One thing for certain, the Snowflake will never let Kyle go to Lola.  She'll hold on to him as long as she can, by any means possible.  According the show's previews and some online spoilers, Lola will come out of surgery in better shape than Summer,  So, Kyle will have some a lot of sympathy for her, at least for a while.  I'm sure she'll recover, though, and return to her old tricks.

When is Nate going to get a storyline other than looking after patients in the hospital?  The writers are wasting his talents.  Maybe Josh Griffith, the new head writer will give Nate something more to do.  Speaking of Mr. Giffith, he has a big task ahead.  He'll have to bring closure to some storylines and begin new ones.  The first order of business is to wrap up the J.T. saga and to integrate the return of Paul Williams into that.  He'll also have to deal with the fate of Dina.  Former head writer Mal Young wanted to write an Alzheimer storyline because his mother died of the disease.  I think the only thing left is or Dina to pass away.  Marla Adams, who plays Dina, hasn't had any screen time for weeks.  What about Lily and Candy Cane and the twins?  They have been in the background for a while too.  I guess the next step is for Lily to be released from jail.  Also, what about Neil Winters, now that his portrayer, Kristoff St. John, has died tragically.  Neil is the patriarch of the Winters family and he has been a central character on the show until recently.  Will viewers accept another actor in the role or will it be better to write Neil out by having him leave Genoa City?

According to an online spoiler, Ana has a big secret.  Devon will follow his sister to a rundown hotel and he will be stunned at what she's been hiding.  Hmmmm.  She seems so sweet.

I have to give Lauralee Bell some praise for her performance as Christine "Cricket" Williams in the courtroom scenes.  I must say, the Cricketmeister has really grown as an actress since her Miss Junior Jabot days.



CAST NEWS

Alice Hunter to leave her role as Kerry Johnson

Alice Hunter has only portrayed Jabot chemist Kerry Johnson since last October, but she's already on her way out.  Alice posted the following on Twitter: "To all asking - yes, Kerry is taking an indefinite hiatus.  I LOVE the arc, even if I'm sad to leave.  The cast and crew gave her a goodbye party.

According to online reports, Alice is not bitter about being let go.  She hasn't taken it personally and hopes that Kerry will return in the future.  To be honest, I'm not a fan of the Kerry Johnson character.  She may be a super chemist, but I haven't been able to detect much chemistry between her and Jack Abbott.  I don't think Kerry has been popular with the fans either.  She's stylish and brainy, but doesn't have a warm personality.  She seems untrustworthy, insincere and only out for herself.

Where do her loyalties really lie?  Whom is she secretly working with?  The most obvious guess is Ashley Abbot, especially since Eileen Davidson will be returning for a two-episode visit soon.  She has ties to Ashley from their days in New York.  Kerry could also be working with the police, hoping to trap both Jack and Phyllis in illegal maneuvers.

The manner in which Kerry departs from the show should be very interesting.  I expect that she'll go out with a bang.


Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Sasha Calle (Lola Rosales)

Poor Lola!  She was attacked by Mia, who mistakenly thought she was Abby.  She lost consciousness and required a liver plant.  Now, she's going to discover that Kyle has married Summer.  She doesn't know what hit her.  What do you think she should do with regards to Kyle?  Respond to the poll below and let me know what you think.

What should Lola do about Kyle?

Lola should forget about Kyle, let Summer have him, and find someone else.

She should find out the real reason Kyle married Summer and fight for him.

She should bide her time and wait for the marriage to fall apart.

I don't know.

Other

Please Specify:

Created with Poll Maker

Readers, I would appreciate your feedback

If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca

That's all for now.  Don't forget that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, March 30, 2019.  I'm looking forward to the end of March on the show, with the return of Paul and Ashley.  There will be big changes with a new head writer.

- Joanne