Y&R Report (November 16, 2024): 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.

Hi fans, 

I'm really pleased that the Newman ranch has been rebuilt and I really enjoyed the episode in which Victor and Nikki reminisced about their relationship during their years at the original ranch.  The flashbacks were great.  Y&R obviously needs to go back to its roots.

Did you enjoy the wedding of Abby and Devon at the ranch?  There is always a great deal of intrigue at at Y&R weddings, especially during the November ratings sweep.  This wedding was certainly no exception.  It was elegant, but underneath the surface, there was a great deal of tension between many of the guests.  Billy. for example, was extremely distressed by Jill's decision to sell Abbott-Chancellor to the Black Knight himself, Victor Newman.  I don't really grasp Jill's reasoning for the decision, or why she treated her son that way.  Billy Boy is far from perfect, but Jill should have given him more of a chance to clean up his act before selling out to Victor.  She made a deal with the devil.

Just outside the Newman ranch, Phyllis' car crashed and she was almost consumed by fire.  Nick and Chance came to her rescue, but she is unconscious, and in the hospital.  She is going to be incapacitated for a while and unable to oppose Sharon.  Maybe she'll wake up with amnesia and won't remember anything.

The relationship between Summer and Chance has become rocky.  He didn't even attend the wedding with her.  What does that tell you?

I should have figured out that Jack and Diane were really faking their breakup.  That's why they argued publicly in front of Victor Newman and others.  It's great to see the wool pulled over Victor's eyes once in a while, or is he only pretending to make an alliance with Diane?  Does he really trust her?  An online spoiler states that "Victor gets the upper hand with Diane."

Kyle continues to be arrogant and entitled, even after Victor threw him under the bus by having Diane publicly fire him.  He refuses to show Jack and Diane the respect they deserve, even though they have shown how concerned they are for him.  Is he too dense to see that Victory just used him.

So, Sharon has confessed everything to Nick.  He can't seem to make up his mind about what to do, or how to deal with her confession.  Will he support her on the basis that she was unwell and that she had hallucinations?  

CAST NEWS

Melissa Ordway (Abby) claims that she has been taken off contract

Right now, she is front and centre on Y&R, but Melissa Ordway has claimed on Instagram that the soap "has decided to take me off contract."  Melissa has played Abby Newman since 2013 and her character has just become a bride for the third time.  She clarified her status on the show.  She wrote, "I'm still playing Abby I'm just not guaranteed episodes and can work on other projects.  I'm still part of the YR faniily and pray they continue to let Abby be part of all the things in Genoa City.  Trust me, I hope I'm still there all the time.  I think they're just focusing on other characters and storylines.  But I worked today and lots of fun stuff coming up."

Two super villains unexpectedly return to Genoa City

Colleen Zenk (Jordan)

Ray Wise (Ian Ward)

In a surprising move, Y&R has brought back two of the most evil characters that have ever appeared on the show - Aunt Jordan (Colleen) and Ian Ward (Ray Wise).  It hasn't been made clear yet how the devious pair are connected.  They are certainly involved in some kind of revenge plot.

The return of the two super villains spells big trouble for Victor and Nikki Newman.  Aunt Jordan might even cause Nikki to turn to the bottle again.   Claire won't be too thrilled about seeing her wicked aunt again.  All I can say is that Aunt Jordan is a better escape artist than Houdini.  No prison can seem to hold her.  She constantly escapes police security.  She has more than nine lives, more than a cat.

According to an online spoiler, Jordan and Ian Ward will target Sharon.  Hmmm!  Why are they involved with her?   I can't think of any association, other than the fact that Mariah grew up under the thumb of Ian Ward.

Ray Wise, who plays cult leader con artist Ian Ward, won a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Guest Performer for his work on Y&R in 2015.  He last appeared on the show in 2016.  His Ian Ward character has been a formidable enemy to Victor.  Now that Ward has teamed up with Aunt Jordan, the Newman family will face attacks from them, as well as from Jack Abbott and Diane and possibly Kyle.  Will Victor Newman be able to withstand all the assaults coming his way?  Has he made too many enemies?

Here's what a delighted Rau Wise told Deadline about his return to Y&R: "It's wonderful to be back on The Young and the Restless.  It feels like home.  I had a great time when I last appeared on the show and am having an even better time now with the talented Colleen Zenk.  I could not have asked for a better partner in crime and it's so good to see both Eric Beaeden and Melody Thomas Scott again.  I look forward to the mischievous Ian Ward causing more havoc in Genoa City.  Stay tuned, it's going to be a whole lot of fun."

Colleen Zenk's character, Aunt Jordan, hasn't appeared on screen since June of 2024, after she was held captive by Victor Newman and sent to prison.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

I have mixed feelings about the return of Aunt Jordan and Ian Ward.  Combined with everything else that is happening on the show, I am not sure we need any more tension.  On the other hand, it may turn out to be fun.  Coleen Zenk and Ray Wise are two veteran actors who can perform admirably.  What to you think, fans?  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Are you pleased about the return of Aunt Jordan and Ian Ward?

Yes, they will create a lot of drama and excitement.

No, they are not needed. There are enough troublemakers on the show.

Yes, but only if they bring down Victor.

I don't care.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need 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.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca 

That's all for  now.  Please don't forget that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, November 30, 2024.

Take care.  A Happy Thanksgiving to my American readers.  Enjoy the rest of the November sweeps.

Joanne

Y&R Report (November 2, 2024): 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.

Hi fans, 

I don't usually agree with Phyllis' actions, but in the case of her son Daniel's arrest, I am on her side.  Chance is going to end up with egg oh his face for making a false arrest.  His policing skills leave much to be desired.  Phyllis was absolutely right when she accused him of being biased.  He is biased toward Sharon. He dated her for a time, and he told Phyllis that she couldn't possibly have murdered Heather.  Yet, there is all kinds of evidence that Sharon has been behaving erratically.  A police detective just can't dismiss someone as a suspect without a thorough investigation.  Chance investigated Daniel thoroughly, and came to the wrong conclusion.  He didn't even really consider that Daniel might have been framed.

Thankfully, Cameron and his bloody shirt seem to have gone away, at least for the time being, but Sharon is still having visions of Nick telling her to do the right thing, and of a dead Heather scaring her.  The ghoulish Heather appeared on the Halloween episode, of course.

It's not surprising that Daniel was arrested.  Otherwise, Sharon would have been handcuffed sooner - end of story.  Now it appears that Daniel will go on trial, with Christine (A.K.A. The Cricketmeister).  It's quite amusing to see Phyllis and Cricket working together since they are bitter enemies.  They have found common ground.  

I think that Phyllis will hound Sharon relentlessly, but with Nick's support, Sharon will get a restraining order.  In the meantime, Daniel will go to trial.  The restraining order won't shop Phyllis, though.  She's a mother lion when it comes to protecting her children.  She will eventually prove Sharon's guilt.  It's just too early in the storyline for Sharon to get arrested.

Jack and Diane's breakup appears contrived.  It doesn't seem realistic that they would turn on each other so suddenly and viciously.  I don't buy it, but it was done for storyline purposes.  Some would say Diane never really changed, but I think she did.  I think she was happy with Jack.  She worked so hard to win his trust.  Why would she just throw it all way with cruel accusations?  Why would Jack and Diane attack each publicly, especially in the presence of Victor Newman?  Yes, Diane is ambitious, but remember that it was Kyle himself who encouraged her to become co-CEO of Jabot.  He was willing to turn down the position in favour of his mother.  Kyle will soon be thrown under the bus by Victor, and replaced by his own mother.  Then the prodigal  son will return home to Jabot and his father, Jack.  Kyle and Jack will go to war with Victor and Diane.  It won't be pretty.

Meanwhile, Claire is setting herself up for a big fall.  She is too starry-eyed over Kyle to realize that she is out of her depth with The Heartbreak Kid.  Summer will also block Claire's road to romance.  She is upset with Chance and she is getting along better with Kyle.  She isn't a big fan of Claire, and she will interfere in her relationship with ex.  She may even want Kyle back again.  I don't know why after the way he treated her and Lola.

Amy Lewis is back in town and Nate has learned that he has a half-brother named Damian somewhere out there.  Amy told Nate that she is dying with lung cancer and that she wants to locate her son before she passes away.  Nate is not certain whether she is telling the truth about having cancer.  She my be lying as a ploy to get Nate to help her locate Damian.  By the way, longtime Y&R viewers remember that Amy worked at Paul Williams' detective agency.  She must know something about private investigation.  Obviously, Damian will be located, and he will stir things up.  He could be big trouble  for Nate and other members of the Winters family.  Maybe he'll show up at the wedding of Devon and Abby.  Maybe he'll be attracted to Audra, and Nate will have to compete with his brother for her affections.  

Abby and Devon are getting married in the middle of the November ratings sweep.  It should be exciting.  Ashley will be returning from Paris for the wedding.  We will see how she reacts to Traci's romance with Dr. Alan.  Jill also plans to attend the wedding.  So, we will see her in person, not on a video chat.  The venue remains a mystery.  It's a gift from Victor Newman, and he's being very coy about it.  I wonder what he has in mind.  With Victor, one never knows.  However, I am sure he will have a reason for his choice.  It will likely fit in with one of his schemes.  If I were Devon, I certainly  wouldn't want Victor to be my father-in-law.

Online spoilers reveal that Victor has secretly rebuilt the old Newman ranch that Sharon set on fire.  It's going to be a big surprise for Nikki.  Who will live in the current Newman ranch?  My guess is that Victoria and her children will move in.

I am pleased that Edward Scott (Melody Thomas Scott's real-life husband) has returned to Y&R as a senior producer of the show.  He has spent the last 14 years with The Bold and the Beautiful, Y&R's sister show.  A seven-time Daytime Emmy winner, Ed began his association with William and Lee Phillip Bell, Y&R's creators, back in 1976, when he joined the show as an associate producer.  Ed knows the history of The Young and the Restless and his presence will help return the show to its roots

Ed and Melody

CAST NEWS

Brytni Sarpy to return as Dr. Elena Dawson

Om October 1, Brytni Sarpy shared the news that she will be returning to her role as Dr. Elena Dawson. on The Young and the Restless.  Brytni began her daytime career on General Hospital as Valerie Spencer in 2015.  While on General Hospital, she was a castmate of Hayley Erin, who plays Claire on Y&R.  

In 2019, Brytni began her run as Dr. Elena Dawson.  Elena went on to have some big romances with Devon and his cousin, Nate.  She cheated on both with the other, leading to a physical confrontation between the two men.  Nate's hand was injured and he was forced to give up his medical career as a surgeon.  

Elena didn't have many screen appearances since Nate cheated on her with Victoria Newman.  In March of 2023, Dr. Elena was planning a media podcast.  Audra Charles suggested that she interview JT Helllstrom about how his brain tumour had impacted his life.  At the time, there was speculation that Thad Luckinbill would be returning to the show as JT, at least temporarily.  However, the stroyline was just dropped without explanation.  Brytni's character has not been seen since.  

There are no doctors in the Y&R cast right now, and Nate Hastings has joined the corporate world.  The show could use a character who is a doctor.  Also, Nate's half-brother, Damian, will likely show up in Genoa City soon.  Elena might fit in to that storyline. 

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Allison Lanier (Summer)

Michael Mealor (Kyle)

Haley Erin (Claire)

Could there be another love triangle on the horizon in Genoa City?  Now that Summer seems estranged from boyfriend Chance over his arrest of her brother, Daniel, will she try to win back her ex-husband, Kyle?  Is Claire in for some competition?  What do you think, fans?  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Will Summer try to get Kyle back and away from Claire?

Yes. It's going to happen. Summer has never really liked Claire and she is fed up with Chance.

No. Summer will interfere with Claire, but she's finished with Kyle after the way he treated her.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need 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.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

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, November 16, 2024.  

Take care,

Joanne

TV Banter Quiz #32

GENERAL TV QUIZ

Are you ready for the latest TV Banter television quiz?  Are you ready to test your knowledge TV history?  Get ready and good luck!  There are ten questions.

1.  In which U.S. city did The Bob Newhart Show take place?

Cast of The Bob Newhart Show

A.  New York City

B.  St. Louis

C.  Los Angeles

D.  Chicago

E.  San Francisco

2.  On All in the Family, what was Mike Stivic's ethnic background?

A.  Polish

B.  Irish

C.  Russian

D,  Turkish

E.  Ukrainian

3.  Tom Sellick, star of Magnum, P.I., liked to wear the baseball cap of his favourite team during the show.  What is his favourite team?

A.  New York Yankees

B  Detroit Tigers

C.  Los Angeles Dodgers

D.  Chicago Cubs

E.  Boston Red Sox

4.  On an episode of The Dick Van Dyke Show entitled "Coast to Coast Big Mouth" (Season 5, Episode 1, Air Date: September 14, 1965)), Laura Petrie (Mary Tyler Moore) reveals a secret about her husband Rob's boss, Alan Brady (Carl Reiner), on television.  What was the secret?

A.  Alan Brady was an ex-convict.

B.  Alan Brady was a terrible boss and treated his employees unfairly.

C.  Alan Brady wore a toupee.

D.  Alan Brady was an imposter.  

E.  None of the above

5.  Carol Burnett starred in a 1962 episode of Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone.  What kind of character did she play>

A.  A cleaning lady

B.  A school teacher

C.  A psychologist

D.  A mother of twins

E.  A socially awkward city woman

6.  On The Jeffersons, what was the name of George and Louise's eccentric English neighbour?

A.  Mr. Crawford

B.  Mr. Bentley

C.  Mr. Worthington

D.  Mr. Spencer

E.  Mr.  Wellington

7.  On a 1967 episode of The Andy Griffith Show, Aunt Bee (Frances Bavier) wins a trip.  Where does she go?

Frances Bavier (Aunr Bee)

A.  Hawaii

B.  Rome

C.  Florida

D.  Mexico

E.  Paris

8,  On Family, what was Willie Lawrence's nickname for his kid sister Buddy, played by Kristy McNichol?

A.  Peaches

B.  Little Sis

C.  Sugar

D.  Kiddo

E.  Baby Sis

9.  On Happy Days, what was the name of the high school that Richie Cunningham and his friends attended?

A.  Milwaukee High School

B.  Roosevelt High

C.  Washington High

D.  Wilson High

E,  Jefferson High

10.  On Maude, what was the name of Maude Findlay's grandson?

A.  Mark

B.  David

C.  Philip

D.  Stephen

E.  Glen

ANSWERS

1.  D    Chicago

On The Bob Newhart Show, Bob played Bob Hartley, a psychologist who lived in Chicago with his wife, Emily (Suzanne Pleshette).

2.  A    Polish

Archie Bunker's son-law, Mike "Meathead" Stivic, played by Rob Reiner, was of Polish background.

3.  B    Detroit Tigers

Tom Selleck is a Detroit Tigers fan.  He was bon in Detroit, Michigan on January 29, 1945.

4.  C  toupee

Carl Reiner as Alan Brady with toupees

While a contestant of a TV quiz show, Laura Petrie (Mary Tyler Moore) let's it slip that Alan Brady, the star of comedy/variety show star, wears a toupee.  This has repercussions because Bardy is very vain and Laura's husband Rob (Dick Van Dyke) is the head writer for his show.

5.  E  socially awkward city woman

Carol Burnett on Twilight Zone

In an episode of The Twilight Zone entitled "Cavender is Coming" (Season 3, Episode 36, Air Date: May 25, 1962), Carol Burnett plays awkward Agnes Grep, a young, unconventional city woman.  An inept apprentice guardian angel, Harmon Cavender, is given a final chance to earn his wings by helping her.

6.  B.  Mr. Bentley

Below is a photo of Paul Benedict, who played Harry Bentley, the Jeffersons' next-door neighbour on The Jeffersons.  Isabel Sanford (Louise Jefferson) is on his right, and Sherman Hemsley (George Jefferson is on his left.

Although Harry Bentley was British, Paul Benedict was actually an American actor, born in Silver City, New Mexico and raised in Massachusetts.  Benedict died on December 1, 2008.  He was 70 years old at the time of his passing at Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.

7.  D  Mexico

In an episode of The Andy Griffith Show entitled "A Trip to Mexico" (Season 8, Episode 3, Air Date: September 25, 1967), Aunt brings her friends Clars and Myrtle along when she wins a trip to Mesico in a contest.  When they return, they aren't even speaking to each other.

8,  A  Peaches

Kristy McNichol and Gary Frank at the Emmys.

Willie Lawrence, portrayed by Gary Frank, often referred to his younger sister Buddy by the pet name of "Peaches."

9. E   Jefferson High

Ron Howard as Richie Cunningham

Happy Days was set in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Richie Cunningham (Ron Howard) and  his friends attended Jefferson High School.   

10  C  Philip

Brian Morrison (Philip)

Kraig Metzinger as Philip

Philip Traynor was the son of Maude's daughter, Carol Traynor (Adrienne Barbeau), who was divorced.  Carol and Philip, lived with Maude and her fourth husband, Walter Findlay.  In seasons 1 to 5, Philip was played by Brian Morrison.  He was replaced by Kraig Metzinger in the sixth season.  It is unclear as to why Morrison left the show.

- Compiled by Joanne Madden

Y&R Report (October 19, 2024): 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.

Hi fans, 

Well, Daniel is being framed for Heather's death, all because Chance is a terrible cop.  Phyllis is more astute.  She smells a rat where Sharon is concerned.  She even told Daniel and Summer that Daniel is being framed. and that she suspects Sharon is the guilty party.  However, Phyllis failed to fully convince her son.  He has doubts that Sharon was able to place Heather's cell phone and the bloody towel in his apartment.  Nevertheless, the idea that Sharon could be responsible has penetrated Daniel's brain, thanks to his mother.

Naturally, Chance is intent on focusing on Daniel, making Daniel the prime suspect.  It seems inevitable that he will be arrested.  The truth about Sharon will come out, of course, but Daniel's arrest and jailing will have serous implications.  Summer and Daniel are very close, and she won't accept her brother being falsely arrested and incarcerated.  She'll probably break up with Chance over it.

There could also be consequences for Lucy.  She has just lost her mother and she could spin out of her control if her father is imprisoned.  She could be driven to drink.

Victor Newman is becoming meaner and more ruthless by the hour.  His goal is to completely destroy Jack Abbott and Jabot.  He is determined to make Jack pay for that night he sacrificed his own sobriety for Nikki's sake.  Victor is really enjoying the rift between Jack and Diane.  He could barely stop himself from smiling when the couple were arguing in public.

What is going on with Michael Baldwin?  Why is he so eager to please Victor Newman?  Why is he so desperate to be in Victor's good graces?  He has become a spineless lackey.  The writers have done a disservice to the character of Michael.  Michael is a talented and confident lawyer.  He doesn't need Victor's support.  He doesn't need to be involved in Victor's wicked schemes.

Is there a worse, spoiled rich boy than Kyle Abbott.?  Like everyone who works for Victor, Kyle will get thrown under the bus.  Audra has already been  thrown under the bus and Michael is being very foolish for assisting The Big Man.  Lily has just learned how cruel Victor can be, how he uses people for his own purposes.  Claire hasn't seen that side of Victor yet, but she has been warned by Jack.  She will be shocked when she actually witnesses that side of her grandfather.  She has only seen how protective he is of his family.  She doesn't realize how controlling and vindictive he is.

I enjoyed the special episode devoted to Phyllis (Michelle Stafford).  It marled 30 years since Michelle debut as Phyllis.  The flashbacks were great and so were the reactions of Daniel. Summer and Lucy when the redhead revealed secrets of her past to them.  It was lighthearted at a time when Y&R needs some humour as a relief from all the tension.

CAST NEWS

Christal Khalil (Lily Winters) weds in Italy

Christal Khalil, who has portrayed Lily Winters for years on Y&R has married her longtime love, Canadian businessman Sam Restango.  Toronto-born Sam is of Italian heritage and the wedding took place in Puglia, Italia at the Masseria Grieco resort.

Christal has a 14-year0old son, Michael Caden Hensley, from a previous marriage and another son, Remy, with Sam.  Crystal met Sam met in 2016 at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California.

Christal first appeared as Y&R as Lily Winters in August of 2002,  when she was only 14 years old.  She left the show in 2005.  Davetta Sherwood took over the role briefly, until Christal returned in 2006.  

In 2012, Christal received the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Younger Actress in a Drama Series.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Courtney Hope (Sally}

Jason Thompson (Billy)

Are Billy Abbott and Sally Spectra headed for romance, or was it just the alcohol?  They hooked up after drowning their sorrows at a bar.  They are becoming closer, and Billy has asked Sally to help him decorate his new place.  The two are both vulnerable and I can see them falling for each other.  Sally no longer trusts Adam.  She's had enough of him.  As for Billy Boy, he still loves Chelsea, but can't get over the fact that she cheated on him with his archenemy Adam Newman.  Billy's under attack from all sides.  Victor is ready to swoop down like a vulture and take over Abbott Chancellor.  His mother, Jill, is pressuring him to rehire Lilly and dump Phyllis, or she will remove him from his CEO position.  Billy truly needs someone to lean on for support, someone like Sally.  

It would certainly drive Adam crazy to see Billy and Sally together.  It would also upset Chelsea, who will probably give up on Billy and turn to Adam.  So, what do you think fans?  Will Billy and Sally get together and will they make a good couple?  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Do you like Billy and Sally together?

Yes, they have good chemistry. Sally's had enough of Adam.

No, Billy has a terrible record with women. He will let her down, sooner or later, just like Adam.

No, it won't work because it's just a rebound romance.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need 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.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

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, November 2, 2024.  Get ready for the November sweeps.  The wedding of Abby and Devon will take place, which should be action-filled.

Take care,

Joanne

Emily in Paris or Rome?

Lily Collins

President Emmanuel Macron has weighed in on plans to move the Netflix series Emily in Paris to Rome at the end of season four.  In fact, Macron is making a big deal out of it.  He said that France "will fight hard" to prevent the show from relocating to Italy's capital.  In an interview in Variety, the French leader stated, "We will ask them to remain in Paris.  'Emily in Paris' in Rome doesn't make sense."

The mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, responded on X (formerly Twitter) with some choice words of his own.  He wrote: "Dear Emmanuel Macron, don't worry: Emily is doing great in Rome.  And one can't control the heart: let's let her choose."  In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter Roma. Gualtieri commented further.  "Doesn't President Macron have more pressing matters to worry about?"  "I  would like to believe," he said, "at least I would like to hope, that Macron was joking, because he ought to know a production company like Netflix does not take orders from heads of state or make decisions based on political pressure"

Macron

Gualtieri

It does seem as if both politicians are making quite a fuss about a Netflix series, although President Macron started the controversary,  Perhaps they are just having fun.  Still, it's difficult to tell how serious they are about the matter.  After all, Macron has a connection with the show because his wife, Brigitte, makes a cameo appearance in season four when Emily notices her in a cafe and requests a selfie.

To be clear, I have only started viewing Emily in Paris recently.  I have not yet finished watching season one of the series.  The show centres around Emily Cooper, played by Lily Collins, who happens to be the daughter of English singer/musician Phil Collins.  Emily is an American marketing executive from Chicago.  She relocates to Paris for a job, promptly breaks up with her boyfriend, and begins to enjoy life in the French capital.  She enjoys the sights and sounds of Paris while dressed in the most fashionable outfits.  However, she must deal with the cultural differences between life in America and life in France.  Her inability to speak French also presents a challenge, although she does make a determined effort to learn the language.

Emily in Paris is one of Netflix's most popular shows.  When it was renewed for a fifth season, its creator, Darren Star, stated that Emily will now "have a presence in Rome."  I guess they have milked all they can of four seasons in Paris.  However, it does seem ridiculous to continue to call the series Emily in Paris if it takes place in Rome.  Why couldn't Netflix just change the name to Emily in Rome?

- Joanne

Y&R Report (Saturday, October 5, 2024): 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.

Hi fans, 

So, Heather is dead, and her body has been found in the river.  We are supposed to believe that sweet Sharon, did the dirty deed and that she has become completely unhinged.  We are supposed to believe that she was able to calmly offer her sincere condolences to Lucy and Daniel. even though she was behind Heather's death.  I am not convinced that Sharon would ever behave in this manner.

Fans, here is another thing that bothers me.  How did Sharon obtain the poison that she planned to put in the bottle of whiskey at Daniel's place - at Cameron's urging, of course.  Unless I missed something, the bag with poison appeared on the bed in Sharon's hotel room when she woke up.  She didn't even remember where it came from.  Since Cameron isn't real, he couldn't have placed the poison on the bed.  So, who did?  Did it come out of thin air?

I've mentioned this a few times, but I have to mention it again.  Y&R needs to lighten up.  Of course mental health issues are important, and soaps should sometimes deal with these issues, but head writer Josh Griffith seems absolutely obsessed with mental illness.  I wonder how people with bipolar disorder feel about Sharon's portrayal. I doubt that they are pleased.

Frankly, I am tired of Cameron and his dirty, blood-stained shirt.  I really wish he would go away.  Enough already!  He's still hanging around.

What's with Lucy and her obsession about being friends with Faith?  She's supposed to be starting high school.  Why isn't she interested in making friends her own age.  However, after what happened to her mother, Heather, Lucy is going to be grieving for quite a while.

I must give Lucy some credit for being suspicious of Sharon's behaviour.  Now that Chance is back with the Geona City police, Sharon will eventually be arrested, although she plans to make it appear that Daniel killed  Heather.  When Sharon is finally arrested, then what?  I guess she'll go on trail for murder.  Maybe Michael Baldwin will defend her on the grounds that she is mentally ill.  Nick Newman will probably stand by her.

Even though Daniel called Paul Williams and informed him of the devastating news about his daughter, Heather, I doubt very much that Doug Davidson will ever return as Paul, not after the way he was treated.  I also doubt that Y&R intends to recast Paul.  To hire another to play the role of  Paul would add further insult to Doug, who portrayed the character for 40 years.  It would be another slap in the face.

Ashley and Traci and Alan haven't been on screen for a long time.  There is more to Ashley's past than we know.  We still don't know what trauma actually caused her Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID).  Will her multiple personalities emerge again?  By the way, there is speculation that Alan was the one who died, and that his evil twin, Martin, is romancing Traci.  If that's the case, both Traci and Ashley would be in grave danger.

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. 

Here is an email from longtime Y&R fan, Carly in Barrhaven, Ontario:

As for Y&R, oh yes Victor is ruthless but it wouldn’t be the same without him.

I can’t stand the Sharon storyline and bringing Cameron back with the blood stained shirt is so stupid.  Yes I knew he was Diane Jenkins’ husband.  I fast forward most of those scenes.

I’m glad to hear that Eileen Davidson is returning & yes I think Traci’s romance is headed for disaster.  I think the good twin died.  Although Ashley’s return could make a difference.  You might be on the right track.

I figured that Claire is heading for heartbreak.  The Billy storyline is interesting.  Do you think Adam & Chelsea will get back together.

Hi Carly

Yes, Y&R would never be the same without Victor Newman.  No one but Eric Braeden will ever be able to play the role.  Eric is 83 years old, but I can't see him ever retiring.  I think he'll play Victor as long as his health allows.

I've enjoyed some parts of the Sharon storyline. especially Sharon Case's 30th anniversary flashback episode where she visits Cassie's grave.  However, as I've mentioned, I'm tired of Cameron.

I am looking forward to Eileen Davidson's return later this fall.  Abby and Devon's wedding is scheduled for November 13th on CBS,  so I am sure she'll be back for her daughter's nuptials.   It will be interesting how Ashley's return will affect Traci and Alan's romance.  Will she be pleased that her sister has found happiness, or will she be jealous?  

Alan and Chelsea may eventually get together, but not just yet.  If they do reunite, I doubt it will last long.

 

CAST NEWS

Is Vail Bloom (Heather) leaving Y&R?

Now that Heather is dead, does that mean that Vail Bloom, the actress who plays Heather, is leaving The Young and The Restless?  Yes, according to Vail - at least for now.  Vail has been active on social media, posing with Y&R co-stars, and wishing them well.  

The November ratings sweeps are just around the corner, so who knows what twists and turns in the storyline lie ahead  Maybe Heather has an identical twin.  Nah!  They would do that again, would they?  

Vail told TV Insider that she was given three weeks notice about her character's death,  "That's just the world of soaps,' she said.  However, as we all know, characters don't always remain dead on soaps.  Vail would welcome the return of Heather in the future.  "I think resurrection is always cool," she commented to TV Insider.  "I'm a huge fan of of resurrection.  I think what's really fun about daytime as opposed to other formats is you can experience things beyond your wildest dreams.  I would be open to it if the fans really wanted to see more of Heather again."

Another Blast from the Past on Y&R - Amy Lewis is returning after over 30 years

Stephanie E Williams

Valarie Pettiford

Unless you're a longtime viewer of The Young and the Restless, you won't remember Amy Lewis.  Amy is a character who hasn't appeared on Y&R since 1988, when she left town to take care of her father Stephanie E. Williams originated the role of Amy back in 1983.  However, another actress, Valarie Pettiford, will be taking over the role this time around.

Longtime fans will remember that Amy worked as the secretary at Paul Williams' and Andy Richards' detective agency. She was friends with the younger crowd back then, including Lauren, Danny and Traci.  It is surprising why this character has been brought back after all these years, but that seems to be Josh Griffith's modus operandi.  He decided to bring back Cole and Cameron and Diane after many years.  Since Lauren and Traci and Danny are still around, Amy will have connections in Genoa City.  I doubt this means Doug Davidson will return as Paul, not after the terrible way he was treated.  We will have to see how Amy fits into the storyline.  

Amy also has a connection to Nate Hastings.  Nate's father, Nathan Hastings Sr. worked at the detective agency and Amy was Nathan's love interest before she left town.  It was his son Nate who received a mysterious text message from Amy about an "urgent family matter."  There is some online speculation that she had a secret child by Nathan, who would be Nate's half brother.  Whatever the case, Amy's return is bound to have huge repercussions for the Winters family.

Valarie Pettiford, the new Amy, is a veteran stage and television actress who began her career as a dancer and choreographer.  She received a Toni nomination for her role in the Broadway production Fosse.  She also played Deidre "Big Dee Dee" Lafontaine Thorne on the sitcom Half & Half.  Valarie is not scheduled to appear on Y&R until October 29 on CBS and October 28 on Global TV.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Courtney Love (Sally Spectra)

Mark Grossman (Adam)

Adam Newman has treated Sally Spectra (Courtney Hope) terribly.  He's been untrustworthy, neglectful and unfaithful.  Yet, Sally's new best friend, Audra Charles, has urged her to fight for Adam.  Adam  begged Sally to take him back.  When she refused, he asked Chelsea to reunite with him.  Chelsea also turned him down, even though Connor would be thrilled to have his parents back together.  Chelsea's heart still seems to be with Billy Boy.

What do you think, fans?  Do you think Sally should follow Audra's advice, or move on.?  Is she better off without him?  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Should Sally give Adam another chance?

Yes, they are good together and Sally brings out the best in him.

No, absolutely not. Adam has had enough chances. He'll just keep on breaking Sally's heart.

Adam would be better off reuniting with Chelsea.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

That's all for now.  Don't forget that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on  Saturday, October 19, 2024.

I wish all my Canadian readers a Happy Thanksgiving on October 14th, 2024.

Take care,

Joanne