Podcasts about Knots Landing

Joan Van Ark takes listeners behind the scenes of her iconic 14-year run on "Knots Landing" and the serendipitous path that led her there. The accomplished actress reveals how teenage heartbreak—when high school quarterback Russell James asked another girl to prom instead of her—sparked her acting career at age 14 with a single audition line: "Violet, sir?" This rejection led to a scholarship at Yale Drama School, making her only the second actress after Julie Harris to receive this honor straight out of high school. In a full-circle moment, Julie Harris was later cast as her mother on Knots Landing, with Van Ark screaming in excitement when she learned the news. She shares the story of her proudest work—the iconic five-minute uninterrupted "face washing scene" where her character Valene literally and symbolically washed away the glitz to return to her authentic self, requiring precise timing since reapplying the makeup would take two hours.Van Ark discusses the origins of both "Dallas" and "Knots Landing," revealing that creator David Jacobs actually wrote Knots Landing first, but CBS wanted something more glamorous for the pre-1980s era, leading to Dallas being produced first. She opens up about the challenges of adapting to post-COVID entertainment industry changes, her discomfort with the shift from glamorous 1980s aesthetics to today's natural, minimal-makeup approach, and her dreams of creating new projects with co-stars Michelle Lee and Donna Mills—possibly titled "We're Not KNOT Done Yet." Van Ark shares her compassion for former co-star Alec Baldwin during his current legal troubles, recalling how she immediately recognized his talent during his first scene. She also discusses her brief marriage to three different husbands within the Dallas/Knots Landing universe, her love of the Boston Marathon (running a 3:20 qualifying time), and her upcoming June appearances including a Dallas reunion in Palm Springs and the Hollywood Autograph Show in Burbank.

Send us a textPower looks different when the money runs out and the people you love go missing. We dive into Dynasty's Season 5 whirlwind where Blake Carrington flies to Caracas in sandals and bravado, pitching a comeback to Billy Waite—a charming shark who treats goodwill like collateral. Krystal sees the trap instantly, raising the deeper question: what good is a fortune if every deal burns trust to ash? Back home, Steven frays under the weight of Danny's disappearance and turns his frustration on anyone nearby. His sparring with Alexis over a swamp-well deal becomes a sharp debate about what money is actually for—idealism versus optionality in a crisis. Claudia is the quiet counterweight, holding the center when grief hunts for an easy target. Then Dominique Deveraux glides in with a smile and a file, refusing origin stories while building her own—precise, elegant, and always a step ahead. Alexis, never one to be managed, fires her stiff lawyer and elevates Adam to the role of son-advocate, betting that loyalty plays better than polish. It's a savvy pivot until the Caracas authorities interrupt her exit, snapping a legal tether that reminds us optics have limits. And in the episode's coldest turn, Jeff follows a hostel whisper to a convent and hears the word that empties the room: Fallon is “gone.” Maybe final, maybe not—but heavy enough to make everyone re-evaluate what they're really chasing. Come for the glamour and one-liners, stay for the fault lines: money as a mirror, family as a battlefield, and reputation as a currency that never stops fluctuating. If you're into Dynasty recaps with wit, heart, and a little forensic reading of elite behavior, you'll feel right at home. Share the episode, leave a review, and tell us: are you Team Crystal, Team Alexis, or Team Dominique?

We're off this week but we bring you two Again With Again With This episodes from the club vault. AWAWT 172: Let's Watch Linda Gray AND Donna Mills In Ladies Of The '80s: A Divas Christmas! Life imitates art -- or maybe Lifetime imitates soaps -- as a bunch of daytime divas from an earlier age reunite for a special episode of their old show, and help a couple of young people out of their own way in the process. Call your mom -- she might be wondering which of her favorite stars from Knots Landing and Dallas are still alive! AWAWT 220: Let's Watch Laura Leighton In Naked City: A Killer Christmas! The Naked City (1948) spawned a TV show in the fifties, AND two Showtime movies in the nineties; the second one stars Laura Leighton as an ambitious but ambivalent tabloid-newsmag anchor. It also stars Scott Glenn and Courtney B. Vance as cop partners, but are they (or Bogdanovich's direction) enough to save a corny script? JOIN THE AWT CLUB

Send us a textA grandma, a helicopter, and a runaway softball shouldn't add up to a custody chess match—unless you're in Dallas Season 5. We dive into “Showdown at San Angelo,” where JR trades stealth for spectacle, Sue Ellen protects peace at the Southern Cross, and Ellie faces a split-second test of principle: win ugly or walk away clean. The move fails, but the message lands—power doesn't always beat preparation, and reputation can make you predictable. We also track the quieter tremors that make Dallas so addictive. Donna wants the dirt under Ray's boots, not the cologne on his cuffs, while Ray insists growth doesn't cancel grit. Afton dazzles with the wrong vibe in the right room. Rebecca returns with money, guilt, and an offer: Cliff should fix a stagnant oilfield-supply company that ought to be printing cash. It's a sharp take on Texas economics—the shovel sellers in a gold rush shouldn't break even—and a chance for Cliff to be more than a spoiler. Meanwhile, Pam's single-focus push for a baby leads her and Bobby into a blunt reality check about adoption, choice, and access that even Ewing money can't shortcut.Jock's absence is handled with care, sending him on a government mission that keeps him revered and out of sight while Ellie pedals toward strength and clarity at home. The emotional center belongs to Sue Ellen and Dusty: tenderness is intact, limits are real, and love becomes a practice, not a pose. When Southern Cross refuses to be outplayed, JR is forced to rethink the only game he trusts. Stakes stay high, but the episode asks a deeper question: what do you sacrifice to win, and who do you become if you do?Stream the full breakdown, share your take—Team JR, Sue Ellen, or Ellie?—and if you're new here, follow the show, rate it, and drop a review so more Dallas fans can find us.

Send us a textA silver-haired power player, a priest with a past, and an old fire that refuses to stay buried—this hour of Falcon Crest commentary leans into the kind of slow-burn chaos that makes soap history. We open on the vineyard, where Melissa's standoff with Father Christopher crackles with class warfare and undeniable chemistry. That spark becomes the thread that pulls the whole sweater apart, because nothing complicates a valley feud like a man of the cloth who doesn't yet know he's family. From there, we dig into the episode's moral pivot: an eyewitness named O'Neill upends the decades-old story of a fatal blaze. No cigarette. Gasoline in the stairwell. The revelation reshapes Angela's strategy and puts Anna and Cassandra's revenge plan under a harsher light. Enter Peter Stavros, a globe-trotting billionaire who does due diligence like other men breathe. He drifts into town, makes an indecently smart offer, and turns a resort pitch into a hostile chess move with a smile—proof that on Falcon Crest, wealth is just a quieter kind of warfare. Meanwhile, Maggie goes straight to the source and asks Richard what really happened the day her memory vanished. He tells the truth about a kiss and a catastrophe, and that honesty builds a bridge stronger than any triangle trope. Chase, now in his bad-boy era, can't compete with clarity, and the marriage fractures on the real fault line: resentment that predates the blast. As Robin's pregnancy turns from plan to person, the household buckles under a different kind of pressure, reminding us that surrogate promises collapse when biology speaks. Then comes dinner. Angela gathers the family and calmly detonates a secret that rearranges every relationship in the room: Father Christopher is Julia's son, Angela's grandson, and Lance's half-brother. The fallout is devastating and controlled—faith shaken, identity split, desire caught in the crossfire—culminating in a final embrace that hints at choices none of them are ready to own. Layered through it all, Richard engineers a public trap to flush out his would‑be killer, because in Tuscany Valley, survival is performance and the stage is always set .If you loved the twists, share this episode with a friend who thrives on elegant scheming, hit follow, and drop your take: whose move was smartest this week—Angela, Peter, or Richard? Your reviews and shares keep the drama coming.

Send us a textThe cul-de-sac throws a sunny party for Baby Daniel, but every smile has a shadow. We dive into Knots Landing Season 4, Episode 3 to unpack the decisions that bruise, the truths that break through, and the one garage conversation that redraws the map. Richard dazzles the neighbors with food, then stuns Laura by leaping from law to restaurant owner with a secret deposit and a head full of wine lists. Val faces a ruthless PR gauntlet that turns her novel into headlines and her home into a photo set, until a bathtub refuge is shattered by pushy “support” and a trap that delivers Gary to her in a stark, echoing parking structure. Gary's half-apology and “I miss you” land like a hook, but Val refuses the bait. Anger becomes a boundary, not a burden. Abby, meanwhile, won't wait around for a man who can't pick a house or a lane; she's ready to build, and the stalling exposes Gary's craving for admiration over accountability. At a dim lounge, a singer with a mullet and a powerhouse voice steals the scene and hints at a trend: when characters can't say what they want, the music says it for them. Back at the shop, Karen's grief sharpens into grit as Wayne's “dentist” alibi slips in a casual brag. One eerie warehouse beat later, the murder thread tightens—and the score turns the air cold. This episode is a study in pressure and choice: paper plates vs. porcelain expectations, closure vs. control, dreams vs. consent. We talk love triangles, public image, career pivots, and the cost of secrets, with sharp character beats for Val, Abby, Karen, and Laura. If you're here for soapy twists, 80s music cameos, true-crime tension, and fierce boundaries, you'll feel right at home. If this breakdown hit a nerve, follow and subscribe, share with a friend who loves vintage prime-time soaps, and leave a quick review—what was your biggest “no way” moment?

Let's dip our toes back into the Pyun'iverse! with this movie about the worst kickboxers who say they are the best -- which in all fairness, everything Albert Pyun touched was the BEST!DISCLAIMER: Language, Spoilers, and Chicken Nuggies!BLOODMATCHdir. Albert Pyunstarring: Thom Matthews; Hope Marie Carlton; Marianne Taylor

Send us a textA poolside tragedy, a courtroom full of spin, and a helicopter that announces a new kind of war—this Dallas breakdown brings heat. We walk through how “Gone But Not Forgotten” closes Kristen's storyline without letting anyone off the hook, then swing into the custody chess match that pits Sue Ellen's resolve against J.R.'s need to control. The question isn't just who's right; it's who can shape the story the fastest and the loudest. We unpack the testimony that frames Kristen's death as accidental, the way J.R. seeds doubt with a tossed-off polygraph line, and why Cliff's failure to land a killing blow at Westar changes the city's power math. From Afton's crucial betrayal to Wendell's lingering grudge, every side character shifts the floor beneath the leads. Meanwhile, Sue Ellen steps into full agency, fortified by Dusty and his father, and the airport snatch attempt becomes a turning point: the other side has muscle, money, and a plan. Watching J.R. take an on-the-spot loss is rare and deeply satisfying. Beyond the fireworks, we sit with Pam's longing for a child and the silence it creates in her marriage. We trace how wealth acts like a character—seducing, dividing, and redefining Donna and Ray, Lucy and Mitch. Dallas thrives when personal stakes meet public spectacle, and this hour nails it: grief handled with restraint, strategy handled with flair. If you love dynastic drama, morally gray moves, and women who turn pain into power, this one's for you. Loved the episode? Follow the show, share it with a soap-loving friend, and drop a review to tell us: is J.R. fighting for love or possession? Your take might show up on air.

In this episode Tommy and Lynn discuss episode 30 of Knots Landing season 7.

Send us a textThe moment JR's limo door swings open in Southern California, the neighborhood heat spikes. We set out to unwind with Knots Landing and instead tumble into a crossover storm: Val's thinly veiled novel lights up the gossip circuit, Abby smiles her way through a high-stakes bargain, and Karen refuses to let a slick technicality bury a crime. It's the kind of hour where a manuscript becomes a weapon, charm becomes currency, and a living-room reading turns into a countdown to chaos. We walk through Val's creative crisis as “Capricorn Crude” goes from diary-turned-novel to publishing gold, drawing the wrong eyes at the worst time. Joe steps in as editor and ballast, but the ground shifts when new owners arrive—and then shifts again when JR quietly buys into the publishing house. That move reframes everything: will this story see daylight, or will power get the last edit? Meanwhile, Abby and JR meet for a surgical lunch. She wants certainty about Gary's inheritance; he wants Gary as far from Dallas as possible. The negotiation is sharp, subtle, and slightly dangerous, and it sets Abby on a path that looks like love, strategy, or both. While those plates spin, Karen locks onto a case that slipped through court cracks. Mac tries to slow her charge without dimming her fire, and their back-and-forth builds into a smart portrait of how you fight people who don't play by the rules. Then the episode jolts into heart-in-throat territory: Laura's overdue labor hits during Val's gathering, a detour turns into a wreck, and a backseat becomes a delivery room. Richard's bookworm prep becomes hero work, and baby Daniel's first cry resets the emotional arc. By the end, fortunes tilt, alliances harden, and one small newborn becomes the episode's truest plot twist—life cutting through the noise. Stream now for the full breakdown, the sharpest lines, and our take on who's really holding the pen. If you're into vintage prime-time soaps, power plays, and messy love, follow, share, and leave a quick review to help more listeners find the show.

Send us a textPower never walks through the front door on Dynasty—it slips in through a bank, a lounge, or a family name said like a threat. We jump into Season 5 with the kind of stakes that make champagne taste like gasoline: Blake is scrambling for capital, Alexis quietly buys his mortgage, Steven turns on Adam over baby Danny's disappearance, and Jeff chases a fragile lead that might bring Fallon home. Every scene asks the same question: are you driven by love, legacy, or leverage? Steven's recast persona hits like a blade, and his fury at Adam becomes the spark that exposes old fractures in the Carrington lineage. Blake answers with a grand patriarch speech, but the room doesn't echo back—it absorbs the silence of people who know the surname doesn't pay the bills. Krystal steps where pride won't, selling jewels and furs to hand over a $4.5 million lifeline. It's a romantic gesture with ruthless clarity: survival first, image later. Meanwhile, Alexis operates in the shadows with perfect aim. While under investigation, she positions herself to foreclose on the house that built Blake's myth. The reveal lands as both humiliation and checkmate. And then there's Dominique Deveraux, gliding into La Mirage with a voice that's part velvet, part agenda. The stage is smaller than her legend, which is the point—she's here to listen, to learn, and to move. Jeff's arc grounds the glamour in grief as he faces a morgue call and still chooses hope, steering toward Portland with nothing but a name and a promise. This recap blends sharp plot beats with the texture that makes Dynasty a classic: couture ambition, legal knives, and loyalty that costs more than it earns. If you love high-stakes drama, missing-heiress mystery, and exes who weaponize real estate, you'll feel right at home. Hit follow, share with your fellow soap lovers, and leave a review telling us: who's really holding the power this season?

Escada Margaretha Ley by Escada (1990) + David Jacobs' Knots Landing season 13 (1991-92) + Jonathan Sanger's Obsessed (1992) with The Eternal Dillards 11/24/25 S7E83 To hear the complete continuing story of The Perfume Nationalist please subscribe on Patreon. 

In this episode Tommy and Lynn discuss and recap episodes 26-29 of Knots Landing.

Send us a textA glass of nostalgia, a splash of danger, and a valley full of secrets—this Falcon Crest recap is loaded. We kick off with canned screwdriver memories before diving straight into the vineyard's new tempo: grief turning to heat as Lance and Terry find solace by the lake, Richard reeling from news that Leather Pants Pam is “gone,” and a blacked-out Bronco shoving him toward another near-death mystery. The pace is tighter, the stakes are higher, and every smile hides an angle. Angela does what Angela does best—listen, learn, and leverage. After overhearing Anna and Cassandra's budget blowup, she weaponizes restraint and reputation, from a brutal San Francisco office visit to a quiet threat at home. Meanwhile, Melissa tries to toe the line between growth and fury as Robin undercuts her in her own house. A weary priest calls out her legendary sins with unvarnished honesty, and Cole steps up to defend boundaries—finally—before the next crack forms. The sharpest blade belongs to Maggie. Amnesia can't mute instinct, and every mention of Richard lands like static. Angela arrives in soft colors and sharp intent, dropping a whisper of an affair that Chase refuses to confront head-on. The result? A single glass on the table, a note underneath, and a choice that rewrites the power map of the valley. Add in Father Christopher's arrival—an earnest smile covering a secret that could split the family—and this hour becomes a study in how truth, money, and memory are traded in Tuscany Valley. If you love 80s prime-time soaps, high-stakes family politics, and plot twists that actually pay off, you'll feel right at home. Hit play, then tell us: is Maggie safer with Chase or Richard—and did Angela finally go too far? Subscribe, share with a fellow soap lover, and leave a review with your boldest theory.

In this episode Tommy and Lynn discuss episodes 26-29 of Knots Landing season 7.

Send us a textA blue Mercedes is wrecked, the bride is gone, and every Carrington instinct goes into overdrive. We open season five of Dynasty with a true gut-punch: Fallon disappears on a stormy night, Alexis faces a fast-tracked bail hearing, and Blake—silk robe and all—reckons with a crumbling empire he swears he can rebuild. The stakes feel higher, the stakes feel messier, and that chaos is exactly why this hour sings We dig into the power struggle around Alexis' freedom, where Dex acts while Steven and Adam bristle about control. Then Steven does something few heirs in soapland ever do: he follows the money. A quiet audit at Colby Co. leads to a $5 million trail through Hong Kong and a confrontation that explodes the line between family loyalty and corporate sabotage. It's not just drama; it's a case study in reputation, governance, and how fast trust evaporates when the numbers don't lie. Balancing the heat is pure glamour: Dominique Deveraux plotting a La Mirage showcase and Brady Lloyd—played with velvet cool by Billy Dee Williams—turning a simple booking into a power move. The lavender suites, the asymmetrical couture, the wet bar glow—every detail is strategy, every entrance a negotiation. Krystal counters Blake's despair with a clear-eyed reminder that the operator matters more than the cash, framing the season as a comeback story waiting to be funded. And just when the house finds its footing, Sammy Jo pulls an airport shocker that jolts custody, credibility, and the fragile truce between brothers.If you love Dynasty's cocktail of boardroom blows, family betrayals, and glamorous scheming, this recap is your front-row seat. We unpack the missing-person mystery, the bail politics, the Hong Kong money trail, and the music-meets-real-estate play at La Mirage—then leave you with burning questions about Fallon's fate and whether Alexis can beat the case without burning every bridge. Hit follow, share with a fellow soap lover, and tell us: whose side are you on this season?

Send us a textA vintage ad rabbit hole, a cup draw, and suddenly we're waist-deep in one of Knot's Landing's most combustible season openers. We kick off with Connie Giannini's Figurines spots—small, sugary time capsules that set the mood—then pivot into a neighborhood where every sunny driveway hides a secret and every choice exacts a price. Gary plays house in two zip codes until Abby draws a hard line: pick a door. Val chooses distance and a quiet room at Rusty's ranch, which turns into a powder keg the second Gary shows up. The brawl is raw, messy, and revealing; it isn't just bodies colliding, it's entitlement meeting consequence, and a marriage splintering in front of a kid with a guitar. Meanwhile, Abby proves she's playing chess on a bigger board. One envelope, one unpublished manuscript, and JR becomes a silent guest at Seaview Circle. It's ruthless and brilliant, the kind of move that crosses state lines and guarantees aftershocks. Gary's bombshell—Jock's will is finally being read—adds fuel to the question no one wants to ask: is he chasing love, or securing leverage? Across the street, Karen won't let memory turn Sid into a footnote. Her dynamic with Mac crackles—half investigation, half attraction—while his theory reframes everything: what if Sid's death wasn't a professional hit, but a sloppy, local tampering? That notion drops like a pin on Wayne, the mechanic with a flat affect and a private scrapbook that says he's been watching all along. We move through all of it with a fan's heart and a critic's eye: the credit tweaks, the swelling strings, the kids growing up, and the way a cul-de-sac becomes a crucible. If you love prime-time soaps, character-driven stakes, and crossovers that actually matter, this one delivers. Press play, ride the waves with us, and tell us: who made the smartest move—Abby, Val, Karen, or Mac? If you're hooked, follow the show, share it with a friend who misses appointment TV, and drop a review to help other classic-soap fans find us.

Send us a textA bomb tears through the night, Maggie wakes without a past, and Angela finds herself boxed in by court orders and cool smiles. The Phoenix doesn't ease back into Falcon Crest—it lights the match. We walk you through each twist and why this premiere feels sharper, faster, and far more dangerous than anything the vineyard has poured in a while. Maggie's amnesia reframes the heart of the show. She reads rooms even when names vanish, pushing Chase to confront who he's been instead of who he remembers being. Across town, Richard's nursing a spinal injury in a sleek, sterile fortress while ominous threats arrive and a razor-smart attorney, Jennifer Jordan, sets boundaries and battle lines. Lance, raw with grief, trades healing for high-risk stunts and bad choices, turning into a beautiful liability. And Melissa? She's turning county into theater, testing patience and parole in equal measure. The power struggle crackles as Cassandra and Anna flex legal control over Falcon Crest, floating a resort plan that tramples heritage for amenities. Angela's purple-clad fury isn't just about money; it's about meaning—how land, legacy, and labor define a family. Then the quietest bomb drops in a Connecticut convent: Julia's “lost year” hides a living heir raised among priests. That revelation ricochets through bloodlines, leverage, and loyalty, reminding us that in Falcon Crest, the past never dies—it waits to be weaponized. If you crave vintage soap drama with modern pacing—amnesia, long-lost children, boardroom warfare, and razor-edged banter—this is your glass. Hit play, subscribe for the next premiere breakdown, and tell us: which twist changed the game for you?

She was the woman America loved to hate. From Clint Eastwood's Play Misty for Me to nine unforgettable years as Abby Ewing on Knots Landing, Donna Mills turned elegance, ambition, and icy stares into television gold. In this exclusive conversation with Steve Kmetko, Donna opens up about her Hollywood journey—from her first soap operas in New York to becoming a primetime icon. She shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with Clint Eastwood on his directorial debut, why Abby was more than just a villain, her thoughts on a possible Knots Landing reboot, and the powerful ways the show touched fans' lives. Donna also talks about motherhood, her new podcast We Are KNOT Done Yet with Michele Lee and Joan Van Ark, and what legacy she hopes to leave behind. If you grew up in the era of 1980s TV dramas, or you're discovering Knots Landing for the first time on streaming, this episode is a must-watch.  Donna Mills interview, Knots Landing Abby Ewing, Donna Mills Clint Eastwood Play Misty for Me, Still Here Hollywood podcast, Steve Kmetko interview, 80s TV icons, Donna Mills podcast, We Are KNOT Done Yet, classic soap opera stars, Knots Landing reboot.  #DonnaMills #KnotsLanding #PlayMistyForMe #AbbyEwing #StillHereHollywood #SteveKmetko #80sTV #ClassicTV #SoapOperaIcons #HollywoodLegends Show CreditsHost/Producer: Steve KmetkoAll things technical: Justin ZangerleExecutive Producer: Jim LichtensteinMusic by: Brian SanyshynTranscription: Mushtaq Hussain https://stillherehollywood.comhttp://patreon.com/stillherehollywoodSuggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.comAdvertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.comPublicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textBright lights, sirens, and a glassy pool set the stage for a season opener that wastes no time: Kristen's body is found at Southfork, and the blame ricochets between JR and Cliff before the sun is up. I take you through the minute-by-minute chaos—the broken balcony, the bourbon, the finger-pointing—then pull the camera back to the moves that matter: strategy, custody, and reputation. We travel from Dallas to Abilene and onward to Southern Cross, where Sue Ellen plants her flag and draws a bold boundary around John Ross. The showdown on that sweeping, terracotta-topped ranch reframes the fight: this isn't only about love or law, it's about who gets to define “fit,” “safe,” and “home.” JR counters with a hard-nosed attorney and a character case; Sue Ellen counters with presence, purpose, and a new kind of power. Meanwhile, the DA revives a buried truth—Kristen's past confession to shooting JR—that stains every alibi and turns motive into a mirror. Along the edges, the episode digs into money and identity. Lucy and Mitch wrestle with class and pride, proving that affection can buckle under lifestyle. Donna and Ray spar over a $3 million decision and what “our money” actually means, testing trust without throwing love away. I also weave in choice behind-the-scenes lore—Dynasty's ratings ascendancy, network nights, and the surprising early-life connections among TV icons—that enrich how we read the stakes on screen .By the final beat, Dallas feels both bigger and tighter: a murder mystery, a custody conflict with teeth, and a family machine humming without two of its most familiar gears. If you love high-stakes melodrama with brains, you'll find plenty to savor here—glamour, grit, and just enough scandal to argue about all week. Hit play, subscribe for the next pull from the bag, and tell me: whose case are you buying—JR's leverage or Sue Ellen's line in the sand?

Send us a textFour colossal soap worlds. Four very different ways to bring heat. We dive into a season where Knots Landing leans into the quiet power of neighbors and consequences, Dallas turns a hospital room into a war room, Dynasty weaponizes wit and glamour, and Falcon Crest splits the deck, then wins both hands with action and adult ruthlessness. If you've ever wondered why some finales feel like true cliffhangers and others feel like revelations, this breakdown will change how you watch.We start on the cul-de-sac, where Lily Mae's nosy wisdom, Abby's precision, and Gary and Val's silence say more than any twist. Richard Avery's descent and unexpected accountability become the spine of a season that proves slow burn can sting. Then we head to Southfork, where JR orchestrates chaos from bed with a rotary phone and a devilish grin while Sue Ellen quietly levels up, Bobby shoulders duty, and Pam's thread wobbles. Timeline quirks around Jock's death pop up—but Dallas still crackles because legacy rivalry is the fuel.From there, it's shoulder pads and sharp tongues. Dynasty decides to be prettier, wittier, and proudly outrageous, letting Alexis, Adam, Dex, Kirby, and a returning Sammy Jo turn every room into a chessboard. Dominique steps in and widens the arena, proving style can be strategy. Finally, we pour a glass at Falcon Crest: explosions, hidden treasure, a mid-season pivot, and Angela back on her bully remind us why older power players make the best television. Richard embraces the dark, Chase inches toward necessary ruthlessness, and Maggie anchors the heart under the heat.By the end, we stack the villains—JR, Alexis, Abby, Angela—and ask you to crown the chaos champion. Ready to argue, rewatch, and relive the most iconic prime-time moves? Hit play, then tell us your pick and your biggest gasp moment of the season. If you enjoy this deep dive, subscribe, share with a fellow soap fan, and leave a quick review to help more people find the show.

Send us a textA door opens, a world flips, and suddenly there's no room left for euphemisms. We've been watching the glances, the lunch breaks, the blue suit excuses—then comes the moment that turns suspicion into sight. We walk you through the Knots Landing season 3 finale beat by beat, from Val's tight smile at a party she didn't want to host for a book she's not sure she recognizes, to Gary choosing the one room where praise drowns out consequence, to Abby's calm as a blade wrapped in silk. We unpack Richard's return and how “fine” can hide a storm: the sprinklers, the double features, the note in the trash that changes Laura's calculus from hope to vigilance. We compare two master operators—Abby and Lily Mae—each relentless, but aimed in opposite directions. One seduces with permission and flattery; the other forces the truth into daylight with a straight spine and a steady stare. And we get into the publishing pivot that turns “A Family in Texas” into “Capricorn Crude,” where covers get sexier as the pages get riskier, and how Val's edits become a shield against the conversation she doesn't want with Gary. Then it happens: Karen at the threshold, Abby in the robe, Gary half-dressed, and Val arriving to see exactly what she refused to imagine. No speeches. Just motion—locks, drawers, keys, and a car cutting through the night while Gary runs beside a story he can't narrate anymore. We talk fallout, dignity, and the practical questions that hurt the most: Who keeps the house? Who gets the kids you didn't birth but helped raise? How do you rebuild a self after a public break? If you've ever clung to “I didn't see it” as a life raft, this is your reckoning. Press play for a grounded, gutsy recap with sharp character insight, TV history notes, and the moments that make great soap feel uncomfortably real. If this breakdown hits, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves prime-time classics, and leave a review to help more soap fans find us.

Send us a textA velvet-voiced stranger silences La Mirage, a jeweled hand throws real mud, and a bride vanishes into a storm—this finale doesn't blink. We open on Dominique commanding the room, then watch her stride into Blake's office with details he doesn't want to hear about the Villa Marini and Rashid Ahmed. The twist lands with a smile: she's a Carrington, or close enough to rattle the family crest. That single revelation reframes the power map in Denver and sets the tone for what's coming next.Meanwhile, Sammy Jo turns chaos into leverage, pushing for full custody of Danny while cozying up to Adam in the gym. Steven's fuse burns fast; one taunt about “help” raising his son and he snaps, proving the Carrington temper is a plot device all its own. Across the chessboard, Kirby arrives with a pistol and leaves with a ticket to Paris because Alexis turns a crisis into a negotiation before the tea cools. Adam swallows the humiliation and falls into Sammy Jo's script—because in this house, rebounds are a sport.Blake's empire buckles as the bank forecloses and Dex saunters in with a lowball bid for the Not Broncos. Krystal offers faith and fight in equal measure, but the math doesn't care about monologues. Then the two set pieces hit: a spa-side quip from Alexis about Krystal's baby earns a faceful of mud, and Fallon's wedding tilts into nightmare—headband off, vision blurring, guests packed shoulder to shoulder as she slips out, jumps in the car, and vanishes into the rain. Inside, detectives slap cuffs on Alexis over a six-figure check tied to Mark Jennings, and Dex can only watch as diamonds meet holding cell fluorescents. Outside, headlights, roadwork, and a truck fill the frame as the screen cuts to black.We're talking new power players, custody brinkmanship, foreclosures, reconciliations, and a cliffhanger that begs for theories. Hit play, subscribe if you're new, and tell us: whose move changed the game the most—Dominique's reveal, Fallon's flight, or the bank's hammer? If you loved the ride, share the show and drop a review so more die-hard soap fans can find us.

She was the moral compass of Knots Landing and one of primetime TV's most unforgettable characters. Michele Lee — the actress, singer, director, and producer who brought Karen MacKenzie to life for 14 seasons — joins Steve Kmetko for a wide-ranging, funny, and deeply personal conversation. Michele shares behind-the-scenes stories from the Knots Landing set, from fan-favorite romances to the infamous pranks, and reflects on how her character helped shape conversations about marriage, equality, and resilience on television. She also takes us back to her Broadway roots (How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Seesaw), her leap into directing at a time when women weren't always welcomed behind the camera, and her personal journey through love, loss, and new beginnings. Along the way, she opens up about friendships with Joan Van Ark and Donna Mills, why Knots Landing still resonates today, and a surprising mid-air encounter with George Clooney that only Michele could tell. From the Broadway stage to the Seaview Circle cul-de-sac, Michele Lee proves why she's a timeless star who's still here, still sharp, and still inspiring. #MicheleLee #KnotsLanding #KarenMacKenzie #ClassicTV #80sTV #TVDrama #BroadwayMusicals #HowToSucceedInBusiness #Seesaw #GeorgeClooney #DonnaMills #JoanVanArk #BehindTheScenes #HollywoodStories #CelebrityInterview #StillHereHollywood #SteveKmetko Show Credits Host/Producer: Steve Kmetko All things technical: Justin Zangerle Executive Producer: Jim Lichtenstein Music by: Brian Sanyshyn Transcription:  Mushtaq Hussain   https://stillherehollywood.com http://patreon.com/stillherehollywood Suggest Guests at: stillherehollywood@gmail.com Advertise on Still Here Hollywood: jim@stillherenetwork.com Publicist: Maggie Perlich: maggie@numbertwelvemarketing.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textRevenge is a dish best served with fine wine and explosives in the spectacular season 4 finale of Falcon Crest.Like the old lady who swallowed a fly in the children's rhyme, our Tuscany Valley power players find themselves trapped in destructive cycles of their own making. Angela Channing returns to her gloriously villainous roots, abandoning her compliant façade to orchestrate the financial ruin of Chase and Richard. Her meticulous plan to sabotage the Helios deal demonstrates why she remains television's most calculating matriarch – but even she doesn't see the blindside coming.The emotional stakes soar as Lorraine's condition deteriorates to brain death, forcing Lance to make an impossible choice while Richard watches his obsessive vendetta claim yet another victim. Meanwhile, Melissa faces her sentencing with unexpected support from Angela, whose courtroom appearance masks a deeper strategy. Family bonds shatter as Chase betrays Maggie with Connie Giannini, sending Maggie straight into Richard's surprisingly welcoming arms.But the true masterstroke comes when Cassandra Wilder reveals her shocking identity – she's the daughter of a man whose vineyard Angela destroyed years ago, and she's spent decades plotting the perfect revenge. Now controlling two-thirds of Falcon Crest, Cassandra proves that patient vengeance is the most devastating kind. The season concludes with a heart-stopping explosion at Richard's home, leaving viewers to wonder who survived as the power dynamics of Tuscany Valley are forever altered.Whether you're revisiting this golden age primetime classic or discovering it for the first time, this finale reminds us why vintage television delivered unmatched dramatic satisfaction. Pour yourself something "bubbly and bright" and witness the spectacular culmination of 30 episodes of scheming, betrayal, and the ultimate power play.

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Send us a text"Oh, it's like that?" - the perfect phrase for this explosive episode of Falcon Crest where betrayal and revenge take center stage. Unlike other soap operas where only one villain typically wreaks havoc, everyone in Falcon Crest seems to be everyone else's enemy.This episode delivers everything a soap opera fanatic craves - shocking confessions, physical confrontations, blackmail, and delicious comeuppance. Melissa finally admits to framing Lance but discovers her husband Cole slept with her cousin Robin, leading to one of the most spectacular catfights in primetime history. Meanwhile, Leather Pants Pam uncovers Richard's secret recordings and uses them to help free Lance from jail before executing her masterful revenge by purchasing the storage facility Falcon Crest desperately needs.The brilliance of "Confessions" lies in how it positions multiple characters against Richard Channing heading into the finale. With Melissa, the corrupt judge, and Pam all harboring murderous intentions toward him - plus Lance now free with Angela's blessing - Richard better keep his head on a swivel. The episode perfectly captures the circular firing squad nature of Falcon Crest's relationships, where alliances shift and collapse within moments.What makes this hour particularly satisfying is watching characters we've followed all season finally reach their breaking points. From Angela's gleeful meddling in Chase and Maggie's marriage to the tender bedside wedding between Lance and Lorraine, every scene builds tension for what promises to be an explosive season finale.Ready to see which of Richard's enemies strikes first? Subscribe now and join our community of primetime soap enthusiasts as we prepare for the finale that might finally deliver the Falcon Crest explosion we've been waiting for!

Send us a textWhen plans go awry, true character is revealed. This pivotal episode of Falcon Crest serves as the perfect bridge toward the season finale, connecting all storylines while raising the emotional stakes for every character. Lance's escape plan collapses when Lorraine suffers a devastating fall from a fire escape, landing her in a coma with multiple injuries and the loss of their baby. Driven by love rather than self-preservation, Lance abandons his chance at freedom to be by her side, only to be arrested at the hospital in a janitor's disguise. His capture sets the stage for what promises to be a dramatic legal battle ahead. Meanwhile, Melissa's web of lies begins to unravel when Greg Reardon discovers her $50,000 payment to Joel. The revelation forces her to contemplate turning herself in, even as she worries about separation from her son Joseph. Her emotional turmoil is perfectly captured in tender bedtime scenes that showcase the high cost of her deception. Just as she prepares to confess, Robin returns with news that she's pregnant with Cole's child, adding another explosive element to an already volatile situation. Elsewhere in the valley, Chase and Maggie's anniversary celebrations are cut short by work commitments, creating tension in their marriage. When Chase is later confronted by Connie's romantic confession, his rejection is gentle but firm—though the encounter suggests more complications ahead for the couple. Perhaps most intriguing is the continued development of Cassandra and Damon's storyline, as their recurring nightmares reveal more about their mysterious past and a traumatic house fire that clearly shapes their present mission. As the episode concludes, all players are perfectly positioned for the coming finale. Will Lance face justice? Can Melissa find redemption? What is Cassandra and Damon's true connection to Falcon Crest? The answers await in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to this season's most compelling storylines.

Is Desperate Housewives the "daughter" of Knots Landing!

Send us a text"What happens when denial finally shatters?" That's the question at the heart of this riveting Knots Landing episode that left me literally frozen in place until the credits rolled. Season 3, Episode 21 "China Dolls" delivers one of the most emotionally raw television experiences of the early 80s soap era. The episode centers on Valene's painful awakening to Gary and Abby's affair, which has been building in plain sight while she desperately clung to denial. The metaphor of a cat and mouse partnership—where trust is established only to be betrayed—perfectly captures the psychological dynamics at play.  Laura finds herself in an impossible position when Karen encourages her to visit Richard at the psychiatric facility, despite him previously threatening her with a weapon. Richard's surprising self-awareness ("I thought you were the weak one... only when you left I realized it was the other way around") offers a stark contrast to Gary's self-destructive behavior. Meanwhile, Joe needs a date for a work dinner to fend off his flirtatious boss, leading to an unexpectedly sweet platonic evening with Ginger. The episode culminates in a scene that had viewers cheering—Valene confronting Abby directly about the affair, resulting in Abby's cruel taunt "I can have him anytime I want" and Valene delivering a satisfying slap across her face. Despite this moment of clarity and strength, we watch in dismay as Gary, obsessively watching Abby from windows throughout the episode, ultimately returns to her by the end. What makes this episode extraordinary isn't just the dramatic confrontations but the psychological truth beneath them. It reminds us that sometimes our worst enemy isn't the person betraying us, but our own unwillingness to see what's right in front of us. As the host reflects, "It's one thing for Gary to lie to you, it's another to lie to yourself." Want to share your thoughts on this explosive episode? Reach out at soaplorepodcast@gmail.com or text through the show notes on your mobile device.

Send us a textA sudden power shift ripples through Denver as Blake Carrington faces financial collapse, forcing him to humble himself before his ex-wife Alexis. The moment is electric—Blake squirming uncomfortably while Alexis, draped in chocolate brown with luxurious chinchilla accents, savors every second of his discomfort. After years of him keeping her from her children, the tables have dramatically turned. Meanwhile, the Carrington mansion erupts in chaos as Sammy Jo makes her grand return, boom box blasting Michael Jackson's "Thriller," determined to reclaim her place and her son. Her unexpected announcement that she's staying indefinitely throws Krystal into a panic as the delicate family balance threatens to collapse. When Steven discovers her modeling career was a complete fabrication, the stage is set for a potentially explosive custody battle. The episode's most intriguing development arrives in cream-colored elegance at La Mirage. The mysterious Ms. Devereaux, played by the legendary Diane Carroll, makes an unforgettable entrance with mountains of designer luggage and an imperious attitude. Her cryptic meeting with Alexis delivers some of Dynasty's most quotable lines ("I didn't invite you, I sent for you") while establishing her as someone with intimate knowledge of Alexis's past—and potentially dangerous intentions. Elsewhere, Fallon's wedding preparations are interrupted by the return of troubling symptoms from her concussion, coinciding with sudden doubts about marrying Jeff. Tracy Kendall dramatically quits after revealing she's been spying for Dex, and Kirby's increasingly erratic behavior culminates in a disturbing scene with a gun. As the penultimate episode of the season, "New Lady in Town" masterfully sets up multiple cliffhangers while delivering the glamour, scheming, and emotional confrontations that make Dynasty an enduring television classic. Don't miss this pivotal episode that promises to change the power dynamics of Denver's elite forever.

Send us a textThe drama reaches fever pitch in this action-packed exploration of Falcon Crest Season 4, Episode 27, "...and the Fall." As Lance awaits escape at the shipping yard, the walls close in from all sides with Richard's $10,000 bounty driving the hunt to fevered intensity. Chase's business victory turns complicated when Connie reveals her past with loan officer Larry Michaelson, creating an intimate moment that Cole misinterprets as infidelity. Meanwhile, the mysterious Cassandra and Damon continue weaving their web around the Tuscany Valley elite, leaving Richard increasingly suspicious of their true motives and identities. The search for truth takes a devastating turn when Maggie and Greg discover that Joel—the Florida Man who might hold the key to Lance's exoneration—has died of an overdose. This revelation brings grief to Terry but visible relief to Melissa, whose involvement in Lance's framing grows more apparent with each nervous interaction. In true Falcon Crest fashion, the episode culminates in a heart-stopping sequence as Angela arranges Lance's escape to Italy. When Richard and the police close in on Lance's hideout, Lorraine makes a desperate attempt to flee via a fire escape, resulting in a terrifying fall that leaves her fate hanging in the balance and Lance abandoned at the shipping yard, unaware of the tragedy. This episode perfectly captures what made Falcon Crest exceptional—blending high-stakes business dealings, complex family dynamics, and edge-of-your-seat suspense into primetime soap perfection. Fascinating behind-the-scenes revelations about casting choices and on-set tensions add another layer to our appreciation of this golden age television classic What soap opera character would you recast, and who would play the role? Share your thoughts and join the conversation by texting us through the link in our show notes or emailing SoapLorePodcast@gmail.com.

Send us a textWhat happens when the pressure building beneath a seemingly calm surface finally erupts? In this episode, we dive deep into Knott's Landing Season 3, Episode 20 "Acts of Love" - an exploration of emotional breaking points and the decisions that change lives forever. The episode pulls us in multiple directions as we witness characters pushed to their limits. Richard's recovery in a psychiatric facility forces Laura to establish firm boundaries despite pressure from well-meaning friends. Meanwhile, Gary's obsession with his methanol business creates the perfect storm for disaster in his marriage to Valene. I share a personal story about witnessing an epic meltdown at Whataburger - when a fry cook named Ray reached his breaking point after 13 hours of staring into bubbling grease. His dramatic counter-leaping exit serves as the perfect metaphor for what happens when we ride the razor's edge too long. The heart of this episode explores a painful truth: sometimes people we love hold us emotionally hostage. Whether it's Richard's manipulation of Laura or Gary's neglect of Valene, we witness characters struggling to break free from these invisible chains. As Valene embarks on an impromptu road trip and meets Willie, a former boxer turned restaurant owner, she gains perspective on Gary's business ambitions - only to return home to a husband who's crossed an unforgivable line. What's your breaking point? When do you recognize it's time to step away before flinging hot grease everywhere? Join me for this analysis of one of primetime soap opera's most pivotal episodes as we examine the art of emotional emancipation and the consequences of riding the edge too long.

Welcome to another episode of Bob Barry's Unearthed Interviews. Thanks for joining us. Today we have a truly special guest joining us. You know her as the iconic Valene Ewing from the classic series “Knots Landing.” She was a beloved face in film and television for decades. She's not just a talented actress, but also a vibrant spirit with a wealth of very different experiences to share. We'll uncover the stories behind the scenes and the laughter that kept her going. Wait until you hear how she got into showbiz!

TVC 703.6: Award-winning producer, director, and author Joseph Wallenstein talks to Ed about how Knots Landing producer Michael Filerman helped him become a director. Joe's podcast, Whatcha Know Joe?, is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever else you find podcasts.

Send us a textBlake Carrington's world is shattered when his hopes for a bank loan extension collapse, threatening his $100 million investment in South China Sea oil wells. The timing couldn't be worse as the family gathers for Fallon and Jeff's pre-wedding celebration at La Mirage. Behind the scenes, Alexis revels in her successful scheme - having paid Rashid Ahmed five million dollars to create this very crisis, she now swoops in with a predatory offer: a $100 million loan that would give her control of Denver Carrington if Blake can't repay it within six months. Meanwhile, Sammy Jo makes a dramatic return to Denver, demanding time with her son Danny and throwing the household into disarray. Her confrontational style has everyone on edge except Fallon, who matches her barb for barb during a heated exchange at La Mirage. The tension between these two women highlights the class divide that still separates Sammy Jo from the Carrington inner circle, despite her technical status as a family member. The episode takes a shocking turn when tennis pro Mark Jennings, after being rejected by Alexis and told to leave her penthouse, is found dead on the pavement below her balcony. Was it an accident fueled by his drinking, suicide, or murder? Suspicion immediately falls on Congressman McVane, who was seen lurking outside Alexis's building just moments before, but this is only the beginning of what promises to be a complex mystery. This hour perfectly captures Dynasty at its best - showcasing glamorous settings and sharp-tongued confrontations while revealing the ruthless machinations that drive these characters. John Forsythe delivers a particularly moving performance as Blake silently processes his financial ruin while maintaining a brave face for his family. As the episode closes with a detective interrupting the celebration, we're left wondering not just who killed Mark, but how Blake will possibly recover from Alexis's most devastating attack yet.

Send us a textWhat happens when the most devious, glamorous, and dramatic characters from vintage primetime soaps throw you a birthday party? Step into this fantastical celebration as we imagine receiving gifts from the icons of Dallas, Dynasty, Falcon Crest, and Knots Landing! From Southfork Ranch to the Carrington mansion, through the vineyards of Falcon Crest and the cul-de-sacs of Knots Landing, this special birthday episode takes you on a journey through the golden age of primetime television. The gifts reveal everything about these beloved characters – JR Ewing hands over a stock portfolio with shady origins and a tracking device disguised as jewelry, while Alexis Colby delivers a fur coat just to outshine Krystal's silk robe. Angela Channing shares rare wine and possibly her secret Reagan diaries, while Abby Cunningham causes a stir with her inappropriate gift of champagne and a book on seduction. Beyond the presents, imagine the conversations! Picture Richard Channing and JR Ewing comparing villain tactics, or Claudia Blaisdel and Julia Cumson discussing their mental health journeys. What would happen when Melissa Agretti flips a table while Kristen Shepherd announces her baby daddy drama? This crossover fantasy brings together the schemers, dreamers, and backstabbers from four iconic universes. For fans of vintage primetime soaps, this episode is pure wish fulfillment – a celebration of the shows that defined an era of television and continue to captivate viewers discovering them today. Whether you're an OG viewer from the 80s or a millennial discovering these treasures for the first time, this birthday fantasy delivers all the drama, shade, and shoulder pads you could wish for. Have a favorite character gift from the episode? Tell me which present you'd most want to receive – Jane Wyman's Reagan diaries, a diamond tennis bracelet from JR, or maybe Dex Dexter's turquoise jewelry? Let me know in the comments!

Send us a textThe placid suburban streets of Knots Landing erupt into chaos when Richard Avery's mental health spirals out of control in one of the most gripping episodes of the series. What begins as a seemingly innocent dinner between Richard and Abby quickly reveals the depth of his deterioration when he misinterprets her intentions and becomes aggressive, earning himself a stinging slap across the face. Desperate to reclaim his former life, Richard orchestrates a scenario to bring his estranged wife Laura and their son Jason to his home. Using an elaborate train set as both bait and cover, he creates a disturbing hostage situation when he refuses to let them leave. The psychological tension builds masterfully as we witness Richard's transformation from a hurt, lonely man into someone genuinely dangerous. His sudden brandishing of a gun when neighbor Gary attempts to intervene pushes this domestic drama into terrifying territory. The episode brilliantly showcases the community dynamics of the cul-de-sac as neighbors react to the crisis. Karen's determination to reach Richard through their friendship provides the emotional anchor, while police negotiate from outside. The contrast between Richard's unraveling mental state and the pristine suburban setting creates a dissonance that heightens every moment. When he finally allows Laura to leave but turns the unloaded gun on himself, we see the true nature of his breakdown – not a desire to hurt others but a dramatic externalization of his internal pain. "Night" stands as a testament to what made Knots Landing different from other primetime soaps of its era – its willingness to explore the darker undercurrents of suburban life with nuance and psychological depth. By the episode's end, as Richard's belongings are packed away and he begins treatment in a psychiatric facility, viewers are left wondering about the fate of this complex character and the community forever changed by this night of reckoning. Subscribe to Soap Lore for more deep dives into these golden age primetime classics that still resonate with surprising relevance today.

Send us a text"The Exposé" delivers a gut-punch exploration of what happens when our talents and compromises collide with our relationships and integrity. At its heart are two parallel journeys of people discovering that their attempts to course-correct may have come too late. Valene has written a manuscript based on Gary's famous Texas family that's caught a publisher's interest. Her excitement quickly turns to anxiety when Gary finally reads it and declares it can never see the light of day. Though fictionalized, the story contains enough truth about the Ewings that Gary fears public humiliation. What follows is Valene's painful realization that her newfound talent has become a threat to her marriage. When she agrees to shelve the book in exchange for Gary spending less time with Abby, we see a woman sacrificing her creative voice to preserve her relationship. But Gary's immediate breaking of this promise triggers something in Valene that many viewers will recognize—that moment when compromise becomes capitulation, and you finally say "enough." Meanwhile, Richard Avery's storyline offers an equally compelling examination of compromise gone wrong. A talented lawyer reduced to arranging escorts for his firm's clients, Richard embodies the soul-crushing reality of being valued for all the wrong reasons. His desperate attempts to reclaim his professional dignity backfire spectacularly when Marnie, one of his regular call girls, secretly records him discussing his arrangements. The televised exposé leaves Richard professionally ruined, scapegoated by the very company that demanded these services. The episode brilliantly captures how we sometimes find ourselves trapped in stories not of our making. As our characters discover, you can make accommodations, follow the rules, even stand up for yourself when things go too far—and still end up paying the price. What would you sacrifice to tell your truth? Or to reclaim your dignity? These questions linger long after the credits roll. Ready to dive deeper into vintage primetime soap opera debauchery? Subscribe now and join our community of newbies and die-hard fans exploring the golden age of television drama together.

Shaun highlights two podcasts Still the Place and We are Knot Done Yet that feature actresses who starred in Melrose Place and Knots Landing respectively, reminiscing about the shows. But the styles of the two podcasts are in stark contrast with lessons for making a successful show.

Send us a textWelcome to a deliciously devious examination of gold digging strategies as displayed in Dynasty's Season 4, Episode 24 "The Check." This episode serves as the ultimate field guide to extracting wealth from the Denver elite – some methods brilliant, others spectacularly misguided. Mark Jennings emerges as our unexpected hero, demonstrating perfect timing and leverage when he blackmails Alexis Colby for $100,000 after catching her in a lie about Ahmed Rashid. His champagne-sipping, opportunity-seizing approach pays off handsomely as he secures his bag and promptly leaves town. Meanwhile, Tracy works both sides as Dexter's spy in Alexis's company, collecting double paychecks but risking everything with her emotional entanglement. The contrast couldn't be clearer when we witness Kirby's disastrous attempt at revenge against Alexis – a golden opportunity squandered by poor planning and a servant mindset. The episode brilliantly juxtaposes these gold-digging strategies against Blake Carrington's $100 million business crisis and the surprise reappearance of Sammy Jo, whose modeling contract dreams crumble alongside her relationship with an abusive advertising executive. Through each character's trajectory, we learn valuable lessons about target selection, strategic positioning, and knowing exactly when to cash out. Whether you're team Mark "Champagne Poppy" Jennings or fascinated by the psychological blocks preventing Kirby from leveraging her position, this breakdown will have you raising your own champagne flute to those who master the art of securing the bag. The episode ultimately teaches us that successful gold digging isn't just about proximity to wealth – it's about understanding power dynamics, recognizing opportunities, and maintaining the emotional detachment necessary to walk away at the perfect moment.

Send us a textThe shocking secrets and betrayals in "Full Circle" demonstrate why Dallas remains the gold standard for primetime drama four decades later. When Sue Ellen receives the devastating news that her sister Kristin has given birth to JR's child, she reaches her breaking point, refusing to continue the charade of their marriage while pouring all her love into raising baby John Ross. JR, ever the manipulator, begins maneuvering for custody while simultaneously courting PR executive Leslie Stewart – unaware she's secretly recording his every misdeed for rival oil company Westar. His audacity reaches new heights when he threatens to "put Sue Ellen in a box" before letting her take their son, showcasing the ruthless determination that made Larry Hagman's character a television icon. Meanwhile, Cliff Barnes finally confronts his long-lost mother Rebecca about abandoning him as a child, in a heart-wrenching scene that adds surprising depth to his character. This emotional reunion occurs just as he discovers evidence linking JR to an international conspiracy involving a counter-revolution in Southeast Asia. When the oversight committee fails to act on the evidence, Cliff immediately suspects Bobby's interference, further straining the Barnes-Ewing rivalry. The episode delivers its most spectacular soap opera moment when Dusty Farlow – previously presumed dead – returns wearing leg braces but determined to walk again for Sue Ellen's love. This unexpected resurrection offers her a potential escape from JR's toxic grip, while setting up an inevitable confrontation. As if these developments weren't explosive enough, the final scenes reveal Kristin's return to Dallas, where she's already manipulating Jordan Lee into believing he's the father of her baby – collecting checks from both him and JR in a classic double-cross scheme that perfectly exemplifies the delicious deception that made Dallas appointment television. Have you watched these classic Dallas episodes? Share your favorite JR scheme or which character you were always rooting for in the comments below!

Knots Landing Reunion: Constance McCashin & John Pleshette!We're heading back to Seaview Circle with Constance McCashin and John Pleshette—beloved for their roles as Laura and Richard Avery on the iconic CBS prime-time series Knots Landing.More than four decades after the show's debut, Constance and John remain close friends. In this special reunion, they share stories from the set, reflect on their characters' journeys, and talk about their enduring off-screen bond.Constance, returning to The Locher Room, brought nuance and strength to Laura's unforgettable arc. John, who played the complex Richard Avery, also worked behind the scenes as a writer.Join us for a warm, funny, and heartfelt conversation between two longtime friends and Knots Landing favorites.

Since the debut of These Are My Children in 1949, the daytime television soap opera has been foundational to the history of the medium as an economic, creative, technological, social, and cultural institution. In Her Stories, Elana Levine draws on archival research and her experience as a longtime soap fan to provide an in-depth history of the daytime television soap opera as a uniquely gendered cultural form and a central force in the economic and social influence of network television. Closely observing the production, promotion, reception, and narrative strategies of the soaps, Levine examines two intersecting developments: the role soap operas have played in shaping cultural understandings of gender and the rise and fall of broadcast network television as a culture industry. In so doing, she foregrounds how soap operas have revealed changing conceptions of gender and femininity as imagined by and reflected on the television screen. In a wide-ranging and enjoyable interview with Dr. Elana Levine, we covered a broad array of subjects pertaining to the history, culture, and craft of soap operas. After an initial conversation, I asked her a series of questions about her work and how it resonates with other genres such as the Real Housewives franchise, especially how original housewives (domestic workers as well as suburban housewives of numerous ethnicities and races) represented the viewership of soap opera consumption and support. We talked about the early origins of soap operas, especially with Proctor & Gamble in the early inception of the soap opera genre to now, with the innovative partnership and collaboration between Proctor and Gamble/CBS and the NAACP in debuting the new soap opera, Beyond the Gates.  We discussed the ways in which the viewership of soaps, mostly working women and stay at home women shed light on significant aspects of American Women's and Gender history, women's civic participation (combing public and private space) as well as informs how women viewers, often housewives and domestics, found ways to weave their own life narratives together with those of cast actors, thus contributing to an interpretive lens on life matter,(blurring line between real and imagined), representing both an innovative and inclusive type of Citizenship seasoning process, whereby, via interaction with soap operas stars as both celebrities and everyday people, (as fellow Cinema scholar Anna McCarthy talks about in her work on ways in which 1950s television, functioned as a kind of citizen machine governing America,  championed inclusive democratic practice that engaged citizens in repetitious call and response and back and forth conversation about everyday practices of everyday working people.  Lastly, we talked about the parallels with primetime soap operas like Dallas, Dynasty, Knots Landing, Yellowstone, as well as what Dr. Levine calls a hybrid form of soap opera storytelling found in series like Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and other primetime television series. We also spoke about the parallels between soap operas as meditations on aspects of good and evil, finding interesting synergy with genres such as wrestling as soap opera drama sport, the drama of superheroes and villains in the DC and Marvel Universe, as well as versions of science fiction. Dr. Elana Levine is Professor of Media, Cinema and Digital Studies in the Department of English at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. She got her PhD, Communication Arts from University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research areas of interest include Television history, theory, and criticism; gender, sexuality, and media; media industry and production studies; media audience studies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Since the debut of These Are My Children in 1949, the daytime television soap opera has been foundational to the history of the medium as an economic, creative, technological, social, and cultural institution. In Her Stories, Elana Levine draws on archival research and her experience as a longtime soap fan to provide an in-depth history of the daytime television soap opera as a uniquely gendered cultural form and a central force in the economic and social influence of network television. Closely observing the production, promotion, reception, and narrative strategies of the soaps, Levine examines two intersecting developments: the role soap operas have played in shaping cultural understandings of gender and the rise and fall of broadcast network television as a culture industry. In so doing, she foregrounds how soap operas have revealed changing conceptions of gender and femininity as imagined by and reflected on the television screen. In a wide-ranging and enjoyable interview with Dr. Elana Levine, we covered a broad array of subjects pertaining to the history, culture, and craft of soap operas. After an initial conversation, I asked her a series of questions about her work and how it resonates with other genres such as the Real Housewives franchise, especially how original housewives (domestic workers as well as suburban housewives of numerous ethnicities and races) represented the viewership of soap opera consumption and support. We talked about the early origins of soap operas, especially with Proctor & Gamble in the early inception of the soap opera genre to now, with the innovative partnership and collaboration between Proctor and Gamble/CBS and the NAACP in debuting the new soap opera, Beyond the Gates.  We discussed the ways in which the viewership of soaps, mostly working women and stay at home women shed light on significant aspects of American Women's and Gender history, women's civic participation (combing public and private space) as well as informs how women viewers, often housewives and domestics, found ways to weave their own life narratives together with those of cast actors, thus contributing to an interpretive lens on life matter,(blurring line between real and imagined), representing both an innovative and inclusive type of Citizenship seasoning process, whereby, via interaction with soap operas stars as both celebrities and everyday people, (as fellow Cinema scholar Anna McCarthy talks about in her work on ways in which 1950s television, functioned as a kind of citizen machine governing America,  championed inclusive democratic practice that engaged citizens in repetitious call and response and back and forth conversation about everyday practices of everyday working people.  Lastly, we talked about the parallels with primetime soap operas like Dallas, Dynasty, Knots Landing, Yellowstone, as well as what Dr. Levine calls a hybrid form of soap opera storytelling found in series like Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and other primetime television series. We also spoke about the parallels between soap operas as meditations on aspects of good and evil, finding interesting synergy with genres such as wrestling as soap opera drama sport, the drama of superheroes and villains in the DC and Marvel Universe, as well as versions of science fiction. Dr. Elana Levine is Professor of Media, Cinema and Digital Studies in the Department of English at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. She got her PhD, Communication Arts from University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research areas of interest include Television history, theory, and criticism; gender, sexuality, and media; media industry and production studies; media audience studies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/gender-studies

Since the debut of These Are My Children in 1949, the daytime television soap opera has been foundational to the history of the medium as an economic, creative, technological, social, and cultural institution. In Her Stories, Elana Levine draws on archival research and her experience as a longtime soap fan to provide an in-depth history of the daytime television soap opera as a uniquely gendered cultural form and a central force in the economic and social influence of network television. Closely observing the production, promotion, reception, and narrative strategies of the soaps, Levine examines two intersecting developments: the role soap operas have played in shaping cultural understandings of gender and the rise and fall of broadcast network television as a culture industry. In so doing, she foregrounds how soap operas have revealed changing conceptions of gender and femininity as imagined by and reflected on the television screen. In a wide-ranging and enjoyable interview with Dr. Elana Levine, we covered a broad array of subjects pertaining to the history, culture, and craft of soap operas. After an initial conversation, I asked her a series of questions about her work and how it resonates with other genres such as the Real Housewives franchise, especially how original housewives (domestic workers as well as suburban housewives of numerous ethnicities and races) represented the viewership of soap opera consumption and support. We talked about the early origins of soap operas, especially with Proctor & Gamble in the early inception of the soap opera genre to now, with the innovative partnership and collaboration between Proctor and Gamble/CBS and the NAACP in debuting the new soap opera, Beyond the Gates.  We discussed the ways in which the viewership of soaps, mostly working women and stay at home women shed light on significant aspects of American Women's and Gender history, women's civic participation (combing public and private space) as well as informs how women viewers, often housewives and domestics, found ways to weave their own life narratives together with those of cast actors, thus contributing to an interpretive lens on life matter,(blurring line between real and imagined), representing both an innovative and inclusive type of Citizenship seasoning process, whereby, via interaction with soap operas stars as both celebrities and everyday people, (as fellow Cinema scholar Anna McCarthy talks about in her work on ways in which 1950s television, functioned as a kind of citizen machine governing America,  championed inclusive democratic practice that engaged citizens in repetitious call and response and back and forth conversation about everyday practices of everyday working people.  Lastly, we talked about the parallels with primetime soap operas like Dallas, Dynasty, Knots Landing, Yellowstone, as well as what Dr. Levine calls a hybrid form of soap opera storytelling found in series like Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and other primetime television series. We also spoke about the parallels between soap operas as meditations on aspects of good and evil, finding interesting synergy with genres such as wrestling as soap opera drama sport, the drama of superheroes and villains in the DC and Marvel Universe, as well as versions of science fiction. Dr. Elana Levine is Professor of Media, Cinema and Digital Studies in the Department of English at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. She got her PhD, Communication Arts from University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research areas of interest include Television history, theory, and criticism; gender, sexuality, and media; media industry and production studies; media audience studies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/film

Since the debut of These Are My Children in 1949, the daytime television soap opera has been foundational to the history of the medium as an economic, creative, technological, social, and cultural institution. In Her Stories, Elana Levine draws on archival research and her experience as a longtime soap fan to provide an in-depth history of the daytime television soap opera as a uniquely gendered cultural form and a central force in the economic and social influence of network television. Closely observing the production, promotion, reception, and narrative strategies of the soaps, Levine examines two intersecting developments: the role soap operas have played in shaping cultural understandings of gender and the rise and fall of broadcast network television as a culture industry. In so doing, she foregrounds how soap operas have revealed changing conceptions of gender and femininity as imagined by and reflected on the television screen. In a wide-ranging and enjoyable interview with Dr. Elana Levine, we covered a broad array of subjects pertaining to the history, culture, and craft of soap operas. After an initial conversation, I asked her a series of questions about her work and how it resonates with other genres such as the Real Housewives franchise, especially how original housewives (domestic workers as well as suburban housewives of numerous ethnicities and races) represented the viewership of soap opera consumption and support. We talked about the early origins of soap operas, especially with Proctor & Gamble in the early inception of the soap opera genre to now, with the innovative partnership and collaboration between Proctor and Gamble/CBS and the NAACP in debuting the new soap opera, Beyond the Gates.  We discussed the ways in which the viewership of soaps, mostly working women and stay at home women shed light on significant aspects of American Women's and Gender history, women's civic participation (combing public and private space) as well as informs how women viewers, often housewives and domestics, found ways to weave their own life narratives together with those of cast actors, thus contributing to an interpretive lens on life matter,(blurring line between real and imagined), representing both an innovative and inclusive type of Citizenship seasoning process, whereby, via interaction with soap operas stars as both celebrities and everyday people, (as fellow Cinema scholar Anna McCarthy talks about in her work on ways in which 1950s television, functioned as a kind of citizen machine governing America,  championed inclusive democratic practice that engaged citizens in repetitious call and response and back and forth conversation about everyday practices of everyday working people.  Lastly, we talked about the parallels with primetime soap operas like Dallas, Dynasty, Knots Landing, Yellowstone, as well as what Dr. Levine calls a hybrid form of soap opera storytelling found in series like Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and other primetime television series. We also spoke about the parallels between soap operas as meditations on aspects of good and evil, finding interesting synergy with genres such as wrestling as soap opera drama sport, the drama of superheroes and villains in the DC and Marvel Universe, as well as versions of science fiction. Dr. Elana Levine is Professor of Media, Cinema and Digital Studies in the Department of English at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. She got her PhD, Communication Arts from University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her research areas of interest include Television history, theory, and criticism; gender, sexuality, and media; media industry and production studies; media audience studies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

Lauder for Men by Estée Lauder (1985) +  David Jacobs' Knots Landing season 12 +  Noel Black's The Other Victim (1981) with The Eternal Dillards 7/1/25 S7E45 To hear the complete continuing story of The Perfume Nationalist please subscribe on Patreon. 

In our newest edition of "Before the Show", we look at the Italian Bowl in Toledo and a hurdler having multiple wardrobe malfunctions in Segment 1. Then, in Segment 2, we are joined by Chico as we discuss the lack of ticket sales of Hulk Hogan's Real American Wrestling at Cleveland State, along with an update on Greg's progress on "Knots Landing", before talking about the selection of movies on Bounce.

This week, I'm welcoming author Christopher Rice back to The Sewers of Paris to talk about his new book, Party of Three — a steamy romance about a gay couple who finds room for a third. On past episodes, I've chatted with Christopher about finding inspiration, for example from soapy shows of the 70s and 80s. This time, we'll go deep on his writing process and the process of psychoanalyzing himself and the characters he creates. Plus, the story of how he once helped solve a murder.We'll have that conversation in just a minute. First — if you're enjoying The Sewers of Paris, I hope you'll consider supporting the show on Patreon. You may also enjoy my YouTube videos about the making of iconic movies and TV shows — I have a new one coming this weekend about the complex legacy of Brokeback Mountain. And check out my weekly livestreams on Twitch, my book Hi Honey, I'm Homo!, and my free email newsletter. There's links to all that in the episode shownotes, and at MattBaume.com.