The Locher Room

Jaksot

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  Jade Harlow on Joining The Young and the Restless, Her Days on Passions, Emmy-Winning Run on The Bay, Friendship with Tristan Rogers & the Personal Journey That Shaped Her Life and Career 15.09.2026 1t 2min

  Jade Harlow joined me for a personal and candid conversation about her more than 25 years in daytime television.Jade looked back at getting her start as Jessica Bennett on Passions, the wonderfully wild stories she experienced there and her love of horror films. She also shared memories from her time as Sheryl Connors on Days of our Lives and some of the incredible actors she has worked with throughout her career.Our conversation became especially personal when Jade opened up about her years playing Lianna Ramos on The Bay. She discussed going through a difficult period in her own life while playing Lianna, how the character sometimes mirrored what she was experiencing and why The Bay ultimately became such an important and healing chapter for her.Jade also shared touching memories of her friendship with the late Tristan Rogers and the kindness he showed her and The Bay creator Gregori J. Martin.We also talked about her move to Genoa City and taking on the role of Marie Kirkland on The Young and the Restless, her connection with Nick Newman and working opposite Joshua Morrow on their powerful addiction storyline.From Passions and Days of our Lives to The Bay and The Young and the Restless, Jade opened up about the experiences and people who have shaped her journey both on and off screen.
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  Scott Clifton & Lawrence Saint-Victor Shared Their Emmy Journeys, B&B Stories, Brad Bell, Annika Noelle, Heather Tom, Liam & Carter, Their Friendship, Superman and Life Behind the Scenes at Bold 08.09.2026 1t 3min

  Scott Clifton and Lawrence Saint-Victor joined me for a terrific conversation about The Bold and the Beautiful, their 2026 Daytime Emmy nominations and the incredible camaraderie behind the scenes at B&B.Lawrence opened up about earning his first acting Emmy nomination after 13 years as Carter Walton, as well as being recognized for his work on the show’s writing team. He shared how Annika Noelle helped him select scenes for his Emmy reel and recalled the FaceTime he shared with his former Guiding Light co-star Karla Mosley after learning they were both first-time acting nominees.Scott talked about earning his 11th Daytime Emmy nomination for his work as Liam Spencer and why this one means so much to him. He shared how Heather Tom and a B&B editor helped put together his Emmy reel, and how Heather gave him a unique perspective on approaching Liam’s cancer storyline.Scott and Lawrence also shared their admiration for Brad Bell, recalled how Brad personally called each of them with the news of their nominations, took us back to their first meeting and talked about the special relationships they’ve built with their B&B co-stars.And we discovered something else these two have in common: a mutual love of Superman!It was a fun, candid conversation with two longtime colleagues who clearly have tremendous respect for each other and the people they work with.
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  Don’t Suck: Tyler Isaac Martin, Ophira Eisenberg & Dylan Hartwell joined me to talk Season 2, queer storytelling, family, faith, representation, its original musical & the emotional season finale 01.09.2026 1t 5min

  Tyler Isaac Martin, Ophira Eisenberg and Dylan Hartwell joined me for a fun and thoughtful conversation about Season 2 of the breakout indie LGBTQ+ comedy-drama Don’t Suck.Tyler, the series’ creator, writer, director, editor, producer and star, shared how growing up in White Settlement, Texas, in a family of ministers helped shape both his life and his creativity. He opened up about finding his sacred space in the theater, coming out at 16, his complicated relationship with religion and how a biblical literature class years later transformed his perspective and ultimately helped change his relationship with his parents.We talked about the inspiration behind Don’t Suck, Tyler’s commitment to authentic queer storytelling and the decision to make Season 2 bigger and more ambitious. Tyler discussed expanding the production, assembling a cast that included Jeff Hiller, and even writing and filming an original musical.Ophira, who played Tyler’s mother Cathy, shared what drew her to the role and how she approached this family and its complicated dynamics. Dylan talked about playing Tyler’s straight brother Noah, their relationship as brothers and the idea at the heart of the season that loving someone can sometimes be very different from pushing them.We also discussed representation, faith, family, creativity and the response Tyler has received from viewers. And with Season 2 building toward its grand finale, Tyler, Ophira and Dylan teased what audiences could expect—including more of the musical, more Ophira and more Jeff Hiller.
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  Jeff Trachta Opened Up About The Bold and the Beautiful, His Mental Health Journey, Bill Bell, Bobbie Eakes, Broadway, His 34-Year Love Story with A. J. Symon & His Extraordinary Career Beyond Daytime 25.08.2026 1t 18min

  Jeff Trachta joined me in The Locher Room for a candid, heartfelt and often funny conversation about the highs, lows and unexpected turns of his remarkable life and career.Daytime fans know Jeff best for his eight-year run as Thorne Forrester on The Bold and the Beautiful, but his journey in soaps began earlier with roles on One Life to Live and Loving. Jeff opened up about the mental health crisis he experienced after his time on Loving came to an end and shared the story of the doctor whose compassion helped him through one of the most difficult periods of his life.Jeff took us behind the scenes of how he landed the role of Thorne and spoke about his tremendous respect for legendary creator William J. Bell. He also shared memories of working with Susan Flannery and reflected on his friendship and musical partnership with Bobbie Eakes. Their work together took them from daytime television to recording three triple-platinum albums and performing sold-out concerts throughout Europe.We also talked about Jeff’s career beyond daytime, including making his Broadway debut as Danny Zuko in Grease, performing in Las Vegas and becoming a renowned celebrity impressionist. And yes, Jeff treated us to some of those incredible impressions during our conversation.Jeff also spoke openly about his personal life and the 34-year relationship he shares with his husband, A. J. Symon. He proudly shared the story behind A. J.’s debut young adult novel, Golden Boy, arriving August 25.It was an hour filled with vulnerability, resilience, laughter, wonderful memories and stories from a performer whose career has taken him from daytime television to Broadway, music, Las Vegas and beyond.
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  Craig Lawlor Looked Back on As the World Turns, Shared Stories of Ellen Dolan and Benjamin Hendrickson, Opened Up About Loss, and Celebrated Des & the Swagmatics' New Self-Titled Album 18.08.2026 59min

  What happens when a soap star finds his next act behind a drum kit?Craig Lawlor joined me for a heartfelt conversation about his journey from playing Adam Hughes Munson on As the World Turns to helping bring Des & the Swagmatics' self-titled debut album to life after nearly eight years in the making.Craig reflected on growing up in a musical family with a father who taught music, picking up the drums at just nine years old, and how acting first entered his life through his sister. He shared memories of joining As the World Turns, what he learned from Ellen Dolan and the late Benjamin Hendrickson, and his friendship with Kristina Sisco during his years in Oakdale.He also opened up about the devastating loss of his mother to cancer at a young age, how it changed the course of his life, and why music ultimately became his creative home.The conversation concluded with the story of joining Des & the Swagmatics, the long road to the band's self-titled debut album, his musical influences, and what listeners can expect from the new release.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow As the World Turns fan or music lover.
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  Heated Rivalry’s Harrison Browne on Making History, Acting, Hockey, Pink Light, Let Us Play, the Truth About Transgender Athletes, and Finding His Voice On and Off the Ice 11.08.2026 1t 1min

  Harrison Browne joined me in The Locher Room for an inspiring and deeply honest conversation about a life defined by courage, reinvention, and authenticity.Many viewers recently discovered Harrison as Connors on the hit series Heated Rivalry, but long before stepping in front of the camera, he made history as the first openly transgender professional athlete in North American team sports.Harrison reflected on his groundbreaking hockey career, the difficult decision to retire in order to medically transition, and how he found a new purpose through acting. He shared the surprising story of how Scarlett Johansson unknowingly inspired him to pursue the craft, the discipline it took to succeed in both hockey and acting, and how he landed his role on Heated Rivalry.We also talked about the overwhelming response to the series, his acclaimed short film Pink Light, and why he and his sister, Rachel Browne, wrote Let Us Play: Winning the Battle for Gender Diverse Athletes.Most importantly, Harrison spoke candidly about the misinformation surrounding transgender athletes, what he wishes people understood about the lived experience of being trans, and the meaningful connections he’s built with young people and families searching for hope and understanding.Whether you’re a fan of Heated Rivalry, interested in sports, or simply appreciate powerful conversations that challenge perspectives, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
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  AJ Lovelace and Rob Hill joined me in The Locher Room to discuss the Emmy-eligible independent series Onyx and the inspiring journey behind bringing it to life. 04.08.2026 59min

  AJ Lovelace and Rob Hill joined me in The Locher Room to discuss the Emmy-eligible independent series Onyx and the inspiring journey behind bringing it to life.AJ shared how he created Onyx from the ground up, why he refused to wait for permission to tell the stories he believed needed to be told, and what it was like serving as the series’ creator, showrunner, director, cinematographer, editor, actor, and more. He also discussed why releasing Onyx on YouTube made sense for the series and why authentic storytelling will always matter more than chasing algorithms.Rob reflected on joining Onyx, collaborating with AJ to help bring his vision to life, and how his work as a producer and writer, along with his experiences on The Book of Queer, the podcast soap opera Heritage, and Handsome™, has influenced the stories he wants to tell.Together, they discussed authentic Black LGBTQ+ representation, the importance of creating opportunities instead of waiting for them, their creative partnership, what Emmy eligibility meant to the entire Onyx team, and why they hope Onyx inspires the next generation of storytellers to believe in their voices and create the stories they want to see.After listening, be sure to watch Onyx, available free on YouTube.
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  Guiding Light’s 74th TV Anniversary: Grant Aleksander, Michael O’Leary, Robert Newman, Robin Nuyen & Sherry Ramsey Preview DEVOUT and Celebrate Springfield’s Enduring Legacy Together 28.07.2026 1t 17min

  Celebrate Guiding Light’s 74th television anniversary with beloved cast members Grant Aleksander (Phillip Spaulding), Michael O’Leary (Rick Bauer), Robert Newman (Josh Lewis), actor Robin Nuyen, and actress, attorney, professor, and playwright Sherry Ramsey.The conversation also celebrates DEVOUT, Sherry Ramsey’s first play, which she wrote and directed. The production reunites Grant Aleksander, Michael O’Leary, Robert Newman, and Robin Nuyen on stage for its world premiere August 27–30, 2026, at ShenanArts in Staunton, Virginia.Sherry shares the deeply personal inspiration behind the play and why she felt compelled to tell this story of grief, fractured family relationships, forgiveness, and healing. The cast discusses bringing these complex characters to life, rehearsing together over Zoom, and what audiences can expect when the curtain rises.The conversation also takes a heartfelt trip back to Springfield with memories of Guiding Light, the legendary Bauer Barbecues, lifelong friendships, favorite mentors, and what made the series unlike any other show in daytime television. Robin Nuyen reflects on losing his father, his longtime friendship with Robert Newman, and why joining this production has meant so much to him. Michael O’Leary also delivers his unforgettable Jordan Clarke impression, providing one of the episode’s funniest moments.As the conversation comes to a close, the cast reflects on what made Guiding Light so special and why, 74 years after its television debut, its legacy continues to bring its cast and fans together.Tickets for DEVOUT are on sale now at ShenanArts.
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  Alan Shayne reflects on 100 remarkable years, Hollywood, his 68-year love story with Norman Sunshine, and the life lessons behind his memoir, And It Only Took 100 Years… Listen now! 21.07.2026 1t 5min

  At 100 years old, Alan Shayne has lived a life unlike any other.In this heartfelt conversation, Alan reflects on an extraordinary journey that spans Broadway, the earliest days of television, Hollywood, and his years as President of Warner Bros. Television, where he helped shape iconic series including Wonder Woman, Alice, The Dukes of Hazzard, Growing Pains, and Scarecrow and Mrs. King.Alan also opens up about discovering his identity as a young man at a time when being gay was neither understood nor accepted, his first love, and the remarkable 68-year relationship he shares with acclaimed artist Norman Sunshine.Together, we discuss his latest memoir, And It Only Took 100 Years…, the lessons he’s learned from a century of living, why he and Norman first shared their story in Double Life, and what he hopes readers take away from this deeply personal book.Filled with warmth, humor, honesty, and unforgettable stories, this is a conversation about love, resilience, purpose, and a life truly well lived.If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—it helps others discover these conversations.
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  Casey S. Hutchison, Jeff Branson, Frank Dicopoulos, BJ Van Griffin & Kristina Sullivan Preview Haven Falls, Share Guiding Light Memories & Reveal Amelia Marshall’s Arrival 14.07.2026 1t 8min

  Podcast DescriptionHaven Falls creator Casey S. Hutchison joined cast members Jeff Branson, Frank Dicopoulos, BJ Van Griffin, and Kristina Sullivan for a preview of the highly anticipated new audio drama premiering June 25.The group discussed Casey’s introduction to soap operas, why Haven Falls was the next story he wanted to tell, and his decision to release new episodes at 2 p.m. Central, a nod to the tradition of daytime drama.Jeff and Frank reflected on their Guiding Light years, their love of serialized storytelling, and the opportunity to return to a format that takes soaps back to their roots. BJ and Kristina shared what drew them to their new characters and what it has been like working with such a talented ensemble cast.Plus, there was exciting news for Guiding Light fans as Casey revealed that Amelia Marshall, known to many viewers as Gilly Grant, will join Haven Falls beginning with Episode 6.Haven Falls premieres June 25, 2026 wherever you listen to podcasts.
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  Neil Adams on Michael Dorian’s 9/11 Heroism, HIV Journey, Finding Love with Aaron, Ground Zero, and the Story Behind From the Pile 07.07.2026 56min

  Author Neil Adams joined me to discuss his book, From the Pile, and the extraordinary life of his close friend Michael Dorian.During our conversation, Neil reflected on their nearly 30-year friendship, Michael’s childhood trauma, HIV diagnosis, search for love and acceptance, and his determination to build a better life. We also discussed Michael’s decision to run toward Ground Zero on September 11th to help others, the lasting health consequences he faced, and the years-long effort to uncover footage proving he had been there.Neil shared the touching story of introducing Michael to Aaron, who would become Michael’s partner and fiancé, and reflected on the resilience, courage, and compassion that defined Michael’s life.It’s a moving conversation about friendship, redemption, service, and the legacy of a man whose story deserves to be remembered.
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  Amanda Reyes & Daniel Budnik explored soap stars, primetime TV movies and television history, plus surprise guest Colleen Zenk shared memories of Woman on the Ledge and Christmas Evil. 30.06.2026 1t 19min

  Amanda Reyes and Daniel Budnik joined me for a fascinating conversation inspired by the Soap Operas in Popular Culture Conference and their presentation, Daytime After Dark: Exploring the Relationship Between the Daytime Drama and the Primetime Made-for-TV Movie.Together, we looked at the surprising connection between daytime soap operas and the primetime TV movie boom of the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s. Amanda and Dan shared how soap stars regularly crossed into made-for-TV movies, why networks embraced these actors in primetime projects, and how these films became major television events for audiences across the country.We also discussed their love of soap operas, the origins of The Made-For-TV Mayhem Show, and some of the most memorable TV movies of the era.As a special surprise, Colleen Zenk joined us to share memories of appearing in Woman on the Ledge alongside Deidre Hall and Leslie Charleson, and she also looked back at her memorable role as Binky in the cult classic Christmas Evil.If you love soap operas, television history, pop culture nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes stories, this is an episode you will not want to miss.
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  Josh Murray Discussed Gym Rat, Winning Best Actor at the Beverly Hills Film Festival, Mental Health, General Hospital, Lou Ferrigno and His Family’s Dream of Producing a Film Together 23.06.2026 59min

  Actor Josh Murray joined me for a thoughtful conversation about his award-winning performance in Gym Rat, the dark psychological thriller that earned him Best Actor honors at the Beverly Hills Film Festival.Josh discussed his lifelong love of movies and how film helped shape the course of his life and career. We explored the powerful themes at the heart of Gym Rat, including addiction, mental health, isolation, redemption, and the importance of sharing stories that help people feel less alone in their struggles.Josh also reflected on winning Best Actor, working alongside the legendary Lou Ferrigno, and the emotional impact of bringing Lonnie Milsap’s journey to the screen. In addition, we looked back at his role as Russell on General Hospital, where he held Drew Cain captive, and talked about the unique experience of working in daytime television.The conversation also turned personal as Josh shared the story of his father’s passion for writing screenplays and their hope of one day bringing one of those scripts to life on the big screen.It was an inspiring discussion about perseverance, storytelling, family, and following your dreams.
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  Jen Jacob & Jordi Vilasuso joined Alan Locher to talk Beyond the Gates, audition stories, daytime TV, cast bonds, career journeys, Guiding Light memories and the future of soaps. 16.06.2026 1t 5min

  Jen Jacob and Jordi Vilasuso joined me in The Locher Room for a fun and insightful conversation about their work on Beyond the Gates and their journeys through the entertainment industry.Jen talked about her audition process for the role of Ashley Morgan, transitioning from primetime and film into daytime television, and the fast pace that comes with working on a soap. She also opened up about the incredible support system among the cast and what has made this experience so meaningful for her.Jordi reflected on how the role of Grayson Perez came into his life and what it has meant to step into his fifth daytime role after memorable runs on Guiding Light, All My Children, Days of Our Lives and The Young and the Restless. He also shared his thoughts on the recent two-season renewal for Beyond the Gates and why he believes audiences continue to connect with daytime storytelling.We also talked about working with their co-stars, the family atmosphere behind the scenes, life outside of acting and so much more.A heartfelt, funny and engaging conversation with two stars helping bring new energy to daytime television.
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  Jon Lindstrom joined me to discuss Hollywood Payback, Beyond the Gates, Joey Armstrong, Michelle Val Jean, and his upcoming book Pressure Point with Jeff Ayers coming this December 09.06.2026 1t 3min

  Jon Lindstrom joined me in The Locher Room to discuss his new novel Hollywood Payback and what it took to follow up Hollywood Hustle. He opened up about the pressure of writing a second book, the discipline of his early morning routine, and why he truly fell in love with the writing process.We also talked about the research behind the book, including the experts he leaned on to bring authenticity to the worlds of crime, prison life, and the legal system, and how those insights shaped the story.Jon shared how his role as Joey Armstrong on Beyond the Gates came to life through his longtime friendship with Michelle Val Jean, and just how much he’s enjoying being part of a brand-new show that’s already building momentum.He also reflected on his career in daytime television, from Kevin Collins and Ryan Chamberlain to Craig Montgomery, and how those experiences continue to influence his work today.Plus, Jon gave a preview of what’s next, including his upcoming book Pressure Point, co-written with Jeff Ayers, set for release this December.
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  Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger joined me to share his story of survival, resilience, and the message he continues to share at 98: love your neighbor, accept others as equal, and never forget. 02.06.2026 54min

  Holocaust survivor Nate Leipciger joined me for a powerful Conversation with Alan, sharing his story of survival, resilience, and the responsibility to bear witness.At just 11 years old, Nate was forced into ghettos and later Auschwitz during the Nazi occupation of Poland. He survived unimaginable conditions alongside his father, including a death march, before being liberated in 1945. His mother and sister were murdered during the Holocaust.In this conversation, Nate reflected on his memoir The Weight of Freedom, the vivid memories he continues to carry, and the bond with his father that helped him survive. He also spoke about his lifelong work as an educator, including his involvement with March of the Living, and his mission to ensure future generations understand not only what happened, but why it must never be forgotten.At 98, Nate’s message remains clear and urgent: love your neighbor, accept your fellow man as your equal, and choose to be an upstander, not a bystander.Bernice Leipciger also joined the conversation, offering her perspective on Nate’s journey and the importance of continuing to share his story.
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  Eric Feltes on Healing Religious Trauma, Unlearning Shame, and Building Confidence, Intimacy, and Self-Worth as a Gay Man in a Powerful, Honest Conversation About Identity and Growth 26.05.2026 1t 10min

  Eric Feltes joined me for a powerful and honest conversation about healing from religious trauma, unlearning shame, and building confidence, intimacy, and self-worth.Growing up in a conservative evangelical environment, Eric shares what it was like to feel that being gay was incompatible with belonging, and how that early messaging shaped his identity. He opens up about the moment everything changed, and the years of work that followed as he began to untangle belief from identity and build a life rooted in authenticity.We talk about the root of shame, how it shows up in everyday life, and what it really takes to move beyond it. Eric also shares insight into why intimacy can be a challenge, and how it’s something that can be learned and rebuilt over time.We also discuss his new program launching in June, designed to help gay men reconnect with themselves, their desires, and their relationships in a more honest and fulfilling way.This is a meaningful conversation about identity, healing, and what it takes to fully embrace who you are.
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  Jessica Collins & Lisa Melamed on Where’s Big Dog?, Y&R, Loving, Dolly Parton, Friendship, Grief, Healing and the Story Behind a Book Inspired by Loss, Family and the Bond We Share With Our Pets 19.05.2026 1t 2min

  Jessica Collins and Lisa Melamed joined me to talk about their heartfelt book Where’s Big Dog?, inspired by Jessica’s loss of her beloved dog Lucy and the journey of turning that grief into something meaningful for families.We talked about the genesis of the book, how a deeply personal moment became the foundation for a story centered on love, loss and healing, and how they approached creating something that could help both children and parents navigate difficult conversations.Jessica also looked back on her early days on Loving, working alongside Laura Wright and Paul Anthony Stewart, and the lasting impact The Young and the Restless had on her life, including her Daytime Emmy win.Lisa shared her path from Brooklyn to Hollywood, her work as a writer and producer on series like Party of Five, Sistersand Hey Dude, and what it meant to step into a more intimate form of storytelling with this book.We also talked about their friendship, working with Dolly Parton, and so much more.
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  Diana Malkin & Margaret Gurevich on The Crossing & Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah, Identity, Immigration, Antisemitism, Empathy, and Growing Up Between Cultures—A Meaningful Conversation 12.05.2026 48min

  In this episode of The Locher Room, Alan sat down with authors Diana Malkin and Margaret Gurevich for a meaningful conversation about identity, culture, and the stories that shape who we are.Margaret shares the inspiration behind her new novel, Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah, a coming-of-age story set in 1986 that follows a young Russian American boy navigating life between cultures while preparing for his Bar Mitzvah. Drawing from her own experiences, Margaret opens up about growing up feeling “othered,” embracing her identity, and the importance of telling Jewish stories at a time when antisemitism is on the rise.Diana discusses her children’s book, The Crossing, which weaves together themes of immigration, health awareness, and cultural diversity through a deeply personal lens. Her work speaks to both children and parents, offering an accessible and heartfelt way to explore complex topics.Together, this conversation highlights the power of storytelling to build empathy, foster understanding, and help us all feel a little less alone.Yasha’s Amazin’ Bar Mitzvah and The Crossing are both available now wherever books are sol
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  Carl Tye Evans revisited Guiding Light and As the World Turns as Kristina Sisco Romero surprised him, celebrating ATWT’s 70th anniversary and their unforgettable storyline together. 05.05.2026 1t 3min

  Carl Tye Evans joined me to revisit his time as Alan-Michael Spaulding on Guiding Light and Nick Scudder on As the World Turns, sharing memories from both shows and reflecting on his years in daytime.In a special moment, Kristina Sisco Romero (Abigail Williams) dropped in to surprise Carl as we celebrated what would have been the 70th anniversary of As the World Turns. Together, they looked back on their unforgettable storyline and the moments that still resonate with fans today.We also talked about Carl’s first feature film, Walking on the Sky, and how a deeply personal experience led him to step behind the camera. He also shared more about his life today, including earning his pilot’s license and his love of motorcycles.