Hayley Erin has had another whirlwind year of playing Claire Newman on The Young and the Restless and the drama for her character shows no signs of slowing down. From her initial storyline as a vengeful stranger controlled by her aunt Jordan (Colleen Zenk), Claire has recently started to let loose in Genoa City – and Los Angeles – especially with her attraction to the new and mysterious Holden (Nathan Owens).
The TV Watercooler caught up with the actress in Toronto to discuss the latest twists, including Claire’s newfound comfort, the escalating tension with Audra (Zuleyka Silver), and what might happen when she discovers Kyle (Michael Mealor) has been digging into Holden’s past.
Erin opens up about navigating Claire’s complicated romances and the unique challenge of her family ties. She shares insight into why Claire feels she can justify her connection with shady characters, and we also dive into the beautiful, yet fragile, relationship Claire is forming with her mother, Victoria (Amelia Heinle), and how the lingering voice of Jordan continues to influence Claire’s inner monologue.
It's a landmark year for the residents of Salem as Days of our Lives marks its 60th anniversary on November 8th. Sixty years on the air is a testament to the soap opera's enduring legacy, a milestone made even sweeter by the show’s recent induction into the prestigious Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame.
The TV Watercooler sat down with two of the show's most beloved stars, Deidre Hall (Dr. Marlena Evans) and Eric Martsolf (Brady Black), to discuss this incredible achievement, the show’s unwavering fan base, and what keeps the drama alive. From the incredible honor of their Hall of Fame nod to the fierce loyalty of the multi-generational audience, it's clear the stars recognize the magnitude of the moment.
Hall and Martsolf reflected on the incredible journey of a show that has, against industry predictions, stood the test of time and recently found a new home on Peacock. Martsolf credits the show’s success to "a ridiculous amount of hard work, a wonderful crew, and a leader like Ken Corday," emphasizing that they are "not lucky," but have "worked for it." The conversation touches on the unique, familial bond the cast and crew share, and how that sense of community extends to the viewers, who tune in every day to see their "second family." As the show celebrates its past, the actors hint at exciting things to come, including the potential return of beloved characters to the canvas as the anniversary celebrations ramp up.
Days of our Lives reaching its 60th anniversary is a television landmark, and celebrating this momentous occasion are two actors who represent different eras and archetypes of Salem: James Reynolds (who plays the esteemed former Commissioner Abe Carver) and Paul Telfer (the charming, albeit dangerous, rogue Xander Kiriakis). Though their characters are often on opposite sides of the law – and rarely share screen time outside of an arrest! – The actors have clearly developed a genuine rapport off-screen.
In this exclusive interview, Reynolds, a beloved veteran who has played Abe for over four decades, and Telfer, a fan-favourite “baddie” who has become an anchor of the current cast, come together to reflect on the show’s enduring legacy, its recent groundbreaking shift to the Peacock streaming services (in the U.S.) and the unique connection they share with the multi-generational DAYS audience. The conversation quickly moves from the actors’ easygoing camaraderie to the true reason for the celebration: the show’s incredible staying power.
The duo discuss the show’s journey, from its “rockstar days” in the 1980s to the recent pioneering move to streaming, which Telfer calls a “rebirth” that allowed the show to “flourish again.” Both actors emphasize that DAYS – and the soap opera genre at large – is a vital, ongoing cultural institution. Reynolds beautifully summarizes the generational connection, noting that viewers “grow through life with these characters as if we are part of the family,” while Telfer highlights the honour of being part of a show that has been a consistent presence in people’s lives since childhood. Their reflections reveal not only a deep respect for the show’s history but also a palpable excitement for its future as it continues to prove its relevance in the modern television landscape.
Days of our Lives is celebrating its 60th anniversary and a major induction into the Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame. The TV Watercooler spoke with cast members Abigail Klein (Stephanie Johnson) and AnnaLynne McCord (Cat Greene) about the significance of this dual milestone and their experience working on the iconic, fast-paced daytime drama. The fast-paced world of Salem certainly keeps these two stars on their toes!
The interview revealed the incredibly deep commitment required by the soap format, with McCord describing it as a "science experiment" where actors must fully commit to every moment, and Klein agreeing that their empathy expands as the characters' relationships deepen. This intensity is beautifully balanced by the genuine off-screen cast chemistry, with Klein feeling "lucky" to be the daughter of a “supercouple” and speaks volumes about the warm, magical connection she shares with her on-screen parents Stephen Nichols and Mary Beth Evans (Patch and Kayle). Meanwhile, McCord confessed that her roles on both DAYS and 90210 are partially inspired by her own sister, and sweetly shared fond memories of recording soaps on VHS tapes for her grandmother!
It's clear that while the drama on screen is fierce, the love and camaraderie behind the scenes are what truly keep the days (of our lives) fun.
It's the reunion fans have clamoured for!
Michael Weatherly is back on the screen and back in Canada! Known to millions as the quick-witted, cinephile Special Agent Tony DiNozzo, Weatherly has reunited with co-star Cote de Pablo for the new series NCIS: Tony & Ziva, streaming on Paramount+.
While he has fond memories of filming Dark Angel in Vancouver, Weatherly’s latest visit brings him to Toronto, where he shares with The TV Watercooler, a hilarious story about being almost ejected from a hotel for an impromptu musical performance. Weatherly dives into the heart of the new show, discussing the "unreliable narrator" style, the hidden "Thom E. Gemcity" Easter eggs, and the dream come true of filming in Europe.
Later, Cote de Pablo discusses her highly anticipated return as Ziva David and shares that the project was a long time coming,waiting for the precise moment to launch a story that honours the characters' past while building their future.
De Pablo dives into the creative decision to focus on loveand family over police work, the "magical time" of shooting inHungary, and why the global reach of streaming makes this the perfect way to connect with the devoted “Tiva” audience.
NCIS: Tony & Ziva streams on Paramount+.
The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to catch up with Canadian actress Mishael Morgan about her recent return to The Young and the Restless as Amanda Sinclair in the latest episode of The TV Watercooler Podcast.
Listen as Mishael reveals:
For more Y&R news and spoilers, check out http://www.thetvwatercooler.com/.
In the latest episode of The TV Watercooler Podcast, I catch up with Canadian actress Jacqueline MacInnes Wood, who plays Steffy Forrester on The Bold and the Beautiful.
Jacqueline MacInnes Wood opens up about Steffy’s trauma and triumphs, including:
- Steffy’s recent kidnapping ordeal and how there’s always potential for her to explore these past traumas and their impact on her future
- Steffy’s fierce personality and protectiveness – not just for her family, but also at Forrester Creations
- How Steffy’s rivalry with Hope was re-ignited following Hope’s kiss with Finn and if she’ll be furious when she finds out about Hope and Carter
- How thrilled Steffy is to have her mom Taylor (now played by Rebecca Budig) home and how devastated she’ll be when she finds out about her illness
- How Steffy’s embracing her namesake and is finally comfortable with who she is
- If she’d ever rule out playing Phoebe!
- How Steffy is finally at peace with Finn and feels safe with him
The Bold and the Beautiful airs weekdays on CTV and CBS. Canadians can also stream B&B on CTV.ca, and the CTV app.
The TV Watercooler Podcast is joined by Sharon Case, who is celebrating her 30th anniversary on The Young and the Restless!
Sharon provides insights into her experience on Y&R and her thoughts on the show’s past, present, and future – including:
Cassie’s Death: How the death of Cassie, almost 20 years ago, still has a profound and lasting impact that has led to numerous storylines, including the introduction of the Sharon, Nick, and Phyllis triangle.
The Triangle: How the Sharon, Nick, and Phyllis triangle has been a central element of the show for almost two decades and how Case believes that the trio’s dynamic chemistry continues to work well. Joshua Morrow and Michelle Stafford are also celebrating their 30th!
Cameron’s Return: Case expresses her enjoyment of working with Linden Ashby, who has returned as a figment of her character’s imagination.
A Shick Reunion: Case teases a potential reunion for Sharon and Nick following a big event that takes place on screen this week.
The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on Global and CBS. Canadians can also stream Y&R on the Global TV app, STACKTV, and at GlobalTV.com.
The TV Watercooler is back from summer hiatus with a new exclusive interview with The Bold and the Beautiful’s Rebecca Budig.
Last month, the daytime vet surprised soap fans by taking over the iconic role of Dr. Taylor Hayes and we had the opportunity to chat about what brings Taylor back to Los Angeles. Budig also recalled the “magical” times she experienced as All My Children’s Greenlee.
The Bold and the Beautiful airs weekdays on CTV and CBS. Canadians can also stream B&B on CTV.ca, and the CTV app.
The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to speak with The Young and the Restless star Joshua Morrow as he celebrates his 30th anniversary on the series.
Joshua reflects on the milestone, calling it a “job of a lifetime,” and looks back fondly at the Crimson Lights set – the coffee house where Nick and Sharon (Sharon Case) fell in love and faced off with Matt Clark (Eddie Cibrian). We also discuss how Cassie’s (Camryn Grimes) death continues to be mined for storylines today and how his character’s affair with Phyllis (Michelle Stafford) saved Nick’s life… And yes, I did ask him about a potential 3 Deep reunion!
The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on Global and CBS. Canadians can catch up with episodes on demand, the Global TV app, STACKTV, and at GlobalTV.com.
The TV Watercooler got the chance to catch up with Bryton James who recently celebrated his 20th anniversary on The Young and the Restless where he plays Devon Winters. Bryton spoke to us about what it was like acting opposite some of Y&R’s heavyweights right from the start, Kristoff St. John’s (Neil) presence on set, and his hope for more investment in Devon’s romance with Melissa Ordway’s Abby.
The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on Global and CBS. Canadians can catch up with episodes on demand, the Global TV app, STACKTV, and at GlobalTV.com.
The Young and the Restless’ Melody Thomas Scott is set to receive a Lifetime Achievement honour at this year’s Daytime Emmy Awards alongside her husband, Emmy Award-winning producer, Edward J. Scott.
The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to chat with Scott ahead of Friday night’s 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards to chat about the family preparations for the awards, the legacy of Victor (Eric Braeden) and Nikki, and her most recent storyline where Nikki fell off the wagon thanks to the evil Jordan Howard (played brilliantly by Colleen Zenk) in what the actress shared she’s so “blessed” to have given material that was both “intense and very satisfying.”
The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on Global and CBS. Canadians can catch up with episodes on demand, the Global TV app, STACKTV, and at GlobalTV.com. The 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards air this Friday, June 7 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Global and CBS.
BritBox’s new mystery thriller After the Flood takes audiences to an English town hit by a devastating flood. Secrets are exposed as the water recedes when an identified man is found dead in a lift in an underground car park, police assume he became trapped as the waters rose.
As the investigation unfolds, PC Joanna Marshall, played by Sophie Rundle, becomes obsessed with discovering what happened to him and why.
The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to speak with Sophie Rundle, whom audiences may be familiar with from her previous roles on Happy Valley (as Kirsten), Ada on Peaky Blinders, Alice on Jamestown, Vicky on Bodyguard, and Ann on Gentleman Jack.
Sophie shares with us what it was like putting on a police uniform following Kristen’s tragic end in Happy Valley, what production was like (Wet! Cold!) and offers us insights into Jo.
You can also read the interview at https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/05/sophie-rundle-after-the-flood-interview/.
After the Flood is now streaming on BritBox in Canada and the U.S.
Bayleigh Pelham won Big Brother Canada Season 12 in the blockbuster finale on Wednesday, May 8. Anthony Douglas won the final HOH and decided to evict Lexus Jackson. The jury of former houseguests then awarded Bayleigh the grand prize.
The TV Watercooler’s Jeevan Brar and Alexis McLaren were at the Toronto studio to watch the exciting 90-minute finale and then speak with Bayleigh, Lexus, and Anthony in the backyard to discuss whose votes surprised them the most, why Anthony thought Bayleigh was more “beatable” in the Final 2, and who was the hardest houseguest to trust.
You can also read the full interview at https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/05/big-brother-canada-season-12-finale-interviews/.
The X-Men are back! Fans of the ‘90s TV cartoon will be able to revisit their favourite characters as X-Men ’97 debuts on Disney+ this week with the action picking up from the X-Men: The Animated Series finale.
Many of the series’ original voice cast will be returning for the revival including Canadian Lenore Zann as Rogue.
The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to speak with the accomplished actress, singer, and politician following the Canadian premiere at Toronto Comicon this past weekend.
Listen as Lenore Zann opens up about slipping back into the role after almost 30 years, previews what’s coming up for Rogue this season, as well as the impact she has made with environmental racism in Canada.
You can also read the interview at https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/03/lenore-zann-rogue-x-men-97-interview/.
X-Men ’97 streams on Disney+
The complicated one-night stand between The Bold and the Beautiful’s Zende (Delon de Metz) and Luna (Lisa Yamada) is bubbling back to the forefront on the soap this week as Luna reflects on her indiscretion with her boyfriend R.J.’s (Joshua Hoffman) cousin.
The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to chat with Delon de Metz about the controversial night in question – which was courtesy of some hallucinogenic mints – as well as how the truth could impact his standing not only in the family but in the family business! De Metz, who grew up watching B&B, also shares what it’s been like working opposite John McCook (Eric) and Thorsten Kaye (Ridge).
You can also read The TV Watercooler’s interview with Delon de Metz at https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/03/delon-de-metz-interview-the-bold-and-the-beautiful-exclusive/.
The Bold and the Beautiful airs weekdays on CTV in Canada and on CBS in the U.S. Canadians can also stream B&B on CTV.ca and the CTV app.
Big Brother Canada is returning for its 12th season and The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to speak with new players Matthew Wong, Bayleigh Pelham and Vivek Sabbarwal before they entered the house.
Get to know Matthew, Bayleigh, and Vivek as they share which experiences they each think will benefit their games, what kind of players they’dalign themselves with, who is open to a showmance, and more!
You can also read the full interviews at The TV Watercooler.
For Matthew’s interview: https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/02/matthew-wong-big-brother-canada-season-12/
For Bayleigh’s interview: https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/02/bayleigh-pelham-big-brother-canada-season-12/
For Vivek’s interview: https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/02/vivek-sabbarwal-big-brother-canada-season-12/
Big Brother Canada Season 12 premieres Tuesday, March 5 at 7 p.m. ET/PT on Global and STACKTV.
Survivor returns for its 46th season this Wednesday, February 28, and The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to speak with Canadian castaways Jessica “Jess” Chong and Venus Vaga ahead of the premiere!
Listen below as Jess and Venus each preview their experience on Survivor, what makes Canadians thrive on the reality competition series, and which shows they are binging.
You can also read the full interviews at The TV Watercooler.
For Jess’ interview: https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/02/survivor-jess-chong-interview-season-46/.
For Venus’ interview: https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/02/venus-vafa-survivor-interview-season-46/.
Survivor airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on Global and STACKTV. The series also airs on CBS and streams on Paramount+ in the U.S.
Shemar Moore marks his 30th year not just on television, but on the CBS and Global networks in the U.S. and Canada respectively, as the actor prepares for the final season of the hit series S.W.A.T.
The TV Watercooler had the opportunity to speak with Moore to discuss the opportunity the series was given to end the show “the right way,” getting the chance to visit The Young and the Restless to honour “the place he was raised,” and who’d win in a fight: S.W.A.T.’s Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson Jr. or Criminal Minds’ Derek Morgan.
You can also read the full interview at https://www.thetvwatercooler.com/2024/02/shemar-moore-swat-season-7-interview/.
Season 7 of S.W.A.T. airs Fridays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Global and STACKTV in Canada.