Justin
Hartley
as Nicholas Foxworth "Fox" Crane

Justin Hartley joins the cast of "Passions" in the contract role of Nicholas Foxworth "Fox" Crane, son of Ivy Winthrop Crane and Julian Crane. To anyone on the outside looking in, Fox would seem to have it all. The prodigal "golden boy," Nicholas is in his early twenties, his body hard and toned from years of playing soccer and tennis. He is also a powerful, potent presence among both his buddies and the ladies! Passions Creator and Headwriter James E. Reilly previews; "Although Fox was sent to the best boarding schools, first in America, then in Europe, his sense of entitlement to have what he wanted when he wanted it, by whatever means necessary, ultimately caused trouble on two continents. Nicholas' various headmasters would describe him as spoiled, willful and arrogant, whereas his friends see him as charming, clever and at times crafty -- thus his nickname, "Fox." The ladies love Nicholas and he loves to "love" them, but he has yet to actually be in love."

PASSIONS marks Justin's television debut. His other acting credits include the student films "America The One" and "Get Up, Stand Up" as well as the theater productions of "Of Mice and Men", "Actor's Spotlight Hour" and "Get Up, Stand Up." Justin just completed a national commercial for Miller Genuine Draft that will launch in late fall of 2002.

Born on January 29 in Knoxville, Illinois, Justin was raised in Orland Park, Illinois with his older brother Nathan and younger sister Megan. Justin attended Southern Illinois University and The University of Illinois in Chicago majoring in History and Theater. Justin's favorite pastime is baseball! He is also an avid basketball player. Justin currently resides in Los Angeles, CA along with his dog, half beagle half terrier "The Gooch" and his cat "Gracie" so named because she is anything but graceful!

Justin
Carroll
as David Hastings

Justin Carroll plays David Hastings, a mysterious man who is being blackmailed by Ivy and who claims he is Grace Bennett’s first husband.

Carroll, who is half-Irish and half-English, was raised in Greece, London and Rome. His mother is the former British television actress Angelina Halley and his father is the renowned travel author, Michael Carroll. His most recent television role was Nigel Gibney on Showtime's “Beggars and Choosers.” His other credits include the films "To Protect and Serve," "Shame" and the short-film, which he wrote and produced, "Which Way to Oz?" Justin is also a stand-up comic, who plays regularly at comedy clubs in Los Angeles.

Carroll is single and lives his Los Angeles with his dogs. He enjoys kickboxing and writing. Justin was born on September 25.

Charles
Divins
as Chad Harris

Charles Divins plays Chad Harris, the sexy and street-smart music producer with mysterious links to Harmony whose love for the beautiful Whitney Russell may tear her family apart.

Divins made his debut on “Passions” at the height of a prestigious modeling career. He has graced the pages of many contemporary high fashion magazines such as GQ, Gear, Cosmopolitan and Glamour.

Additionally, Divins is known for being prominently featured in many Tommy Hilfiger clothing and accessory ad campaigns. “Passions” marks Divins' first foray into acting.

Divins takes pride in his amateur photography and plays the bass guitar in his spare time. Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, he celebrates his birthday January 29.



Christopher
Douglas
as Antonio "Brian" Lopez-Fitzgerald

Christopher Douglas portrays Antonio Lopez Fitzgerald, the handsome and fearless oldest son of Pilar and the missing Martin.

Douglas's previous daytime credits include contract roles on “One Life to Live” and “The Young and the Restless.” He has also appeared in the telefilms “Shadow Warriors” for TNT and “The Pick Up” for Showtime. He has also made guest appearances on “Burke's Law,” “Honor and Duty,” “Saved by the Bell: The College Years” and “Married with Children.” Additionally, Douglas has modeled for fashion designers Gianni Versace and Giorgio Armani, appeared in ads for Old Spice and the National Dairy Board, been selected as one of YM Magazine's "50 Most Beautiful Guys" and appeared in Tori Amos' video, “Cornflake Girl.”

Born in Clinton, Tennessee on August 26 and raised in Knoxville, Douglas currently resides in Southern California as well as Montana. Christopher has a deep fascination with and respect for his Native American heritage (his mother's family is Cherokee) and has taken an active interest in tracing his family roots. When he is not working, Christopher enjoys all outdoor activities including archery, hiking, canoeing and fishing

Andrea
Evans
as Rebecca Hotchkiss

Emmy Award-nominated actress Andrea Evans joined “Passions” in the recurring role of Rebecca Hotchkiss, the manipulative, rapacious social climber whose ambition is to reign over the Crane Emipire.
Born and raised in the Midwest, Evans began acting with a job as an extra in Brian De Palma's "The Fury," which ultimately became a featured role. She was soon cast in the television mini-series "The Awakening Land" and her performance garnered the attention of ABC casting executives, which lead to her long-term contract role as Tina Clayton on "One Life to Live." Evans other notable daytime roles include Tawny on "The Bold and the Beautiful," and Patty Williams Abbott on "The Young and the Restless."

Additionally, Evans credits include a recurring role on "Capitol News" and the films "Opposite Sex, " "Low Down Dirty Shame, " "Ice Cream Man" and "Ghostwriter."

Evan's charitable interests include City of Hope, Amnesty International, Global Relief, the Special Olympics and a variety of AIDS fundraising and research organizations. In her free time, Andrea enjoys spending time with her husband Steve, their dog Motown and their cat Ernie. Her hobbies include cooking, gardening, working out and she is an ardent baseball fan. Andrea was born on June 18.


Galen
Gering
as Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald

Galen Gering plays Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald, the ruggedly handsome Harmony police officer who has found, and lost, love over the centuries with the beautiful heiress Sheridan Crane.

A native of Los Angeles, Gering graduated from the University of Miami in May 1999, with honors. While pursuing his education in film and creative writing, he began modeling and has appeared in over 50 national commercials. Gering was featured in two independent films, “Road Trip” and “Pistol Whipped” and was named one of People Magazine’s “50 Most Beautiful People" (2000).

Gering is a filmmaker, a writer and plays Pro-Am beach volleyball. His birthday is February 13.



Bruce Michael
Hall
as Reese Durkee

Bruce Michael Hall portrays Reese Durkee, the brainy Harmony High School class “geek” whose two goals in life are to win the love of Kay Bennett and prove that Tabitha Lenox is in fact a witch!

Born on a rural farm in St. Joseph, Missouri, Hall moved to Los Angeles to attend the University of Southern California, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in theater. Hall modeled while attending school and has appeared in national advertising campaigns for products such as Lipton Tea, Michelin Tires and the Urgent Gear clothing line. His television credits include “Boston Public,” NBC’s “Sunset Beach,” “The Bold and the Beautiful,” “Big Bad Beetleborgs” and NBC’s Saturday morning series “One World” and Digital Entertainment’s “Frat Ratz.”

Hall’s hobbies include making his own furniture, singing, dancing and horseback riding. His birthday is September 10.

Jade
Harlow
as Jessica Bennett

Jade Harlow plays Jessica Bennett, the sweet and innocent daughter of Sam and Grace and the younger sister to devious Kay.

Harlow’s high school and community theatre experience includes performances in plays such as “Grease,” “Romeo and Juliet,” “Taming of the Shrew” and “Alice in the Wonderland.”
She recently made a guest appearance on NBC’s “3rd Rock from the Sun.” Harlow studied tap, jazz, ballet and swing dance at Osmond’s Performing Theatre of Dance and the Arthur Murray Dance Studio.

Born and raised in Las Vegas, NV, Harlow’s birthday is March 11.





James
Hyde
as Sam Bennett

James Hyde plays the well-respected and handsome police chief Sam Bennett who adores his wife Grace and their children.

Born in Lancaster, Ohio, Hyde began modeling and acting at an early age. He was discovered by NBC when he auditioned at an open-casting call for “Sunset Beach.” Hyde won that competition and was featured in the daytime drama’s on-air promos.

Hyde’s other daytime television credits include his role as Neil on NBC’s “Another World” and Liam on “As the World Turns.” Additional television appearances include “Sex in the City,” “Models & Mortals,” “Mortal Kombat: Conquest” and “Miami Sands.” His feature film credits include “Let’s Talk About Sex” and “The Blackout” with Dennis Hopper.
Hyde relocated to Los Angeles from Miami, Florida with his wife, model Sue-Ling. When he is not working, he enjoys shopping for antiques, reading and basketball. He was born on October 9.


Kim
Johnston Ulrich
as Ivy Winthrop Crane

Kim Johnston Ulrich portrays Ivy Winthrop Crane, the daughter of a Governor and the beautiful and socially prominent ex-wife of Julian Crane. Ivy longs to rekindle her past with first-love Sam Bennett.

Johnston Ulrich is best known as Diana McCall, on “As the World Turns,” a role she played for two years. She was a series regular on the NBC series “Nightengales” and Mark Harmon’s recurring love interest on NBC’s “Reasonable Doubts." Her other television credits include NBC’s “Matlock,” “3rd Rock From the Sun” and “Cheers”, as well as “Smart Guy,” “Seventh Heaven,” “Moloney,” “Murder One,” and “Diagnosis: Murder.”

Johnston Ulrich was born in Ripon in California’s San Joaquin Valley and her birthday is March 24. She resides in Los Angeles with her husband, Robert, a casting director, and their son. Her hobbies include gardening, cooking and interior decorating.



Brook
Kerr
as Whitney Russell

Brook Kerr plays Whitney Russell, the daughter of TC and Eve. Whitney is a champion tennis player, but is discovering there's more to life than just a tennis racket.

After graduating from high school, Kerr moved from Indianapolis to Los Angeles to fulfill her dream of becoming an actress. She soon was cast in guest-starring roles on NBC’s “City Guys” and “Saved By the Bell,” as well as “Smart Guy” and “The Steve Harvey Show.” “Passions” marks Kerr’s first contract role on a television series.

Kerr is a sports enthusiast who keeps fit practicing ballet, volleyball, basketball, bowling and ballroom dancing. She resides in Los Angeles with her husband and son. She was born on November 21.

Lindsay
Korman
as Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald

Lindsay Korman plays Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald, the calculating and scheming daughter of Pilar and the current Mrs. Julian Crane.

Korman was a national pre-teen talent winner of the Young Miss America Beauty pageant. A gifted vocalist, singing since age eleven, Korman has starred in "Grease" on Broadway, as the lead vocalist in the Las Vegas Sands Hotel afternoon show "Viva Las Vegas," the role of "The Bride" in "Beetlejuice's Rockin' Graveyard Revue" at Universal Studios Hollywood, the coveted role of "Maria" in the Civic Light Opera's "West Side Story" at the Paramount Theater in Austin, Texas and in "Pygmalion, the True Story," which toured the Greek Islands. Additionally, Korman has won several national vocal competitions including The L.A. Philharmonic's Award Vocal Opera, The National Date Festival, and America's Showcase Starlet.

A native of Palm Springs, Calif., Korman currently resides in Los Angeles with her two dogs. Her birthday is April 17.




Jack
Krizmanich
as John Hastings

Jack Krizmanich plays John Hastings, the handsome and good natured son of David Hastings, who arrives in Harmony and meets Grace, who he believes to be his long lost mother.

Passions marks Krizmanich’s acting and television debut. He began his entertainment career by modeling, launching major campaigns for MAC Cosmetics, Louis Vuitton, American Crew and most notably, a nationwide campaign for TARGET stores, which culminated in an image of Jack on a billboard at Times Square.

Krizmanich relocated from New York City to Los Angeles for Passions. He is originally a native of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania and was born on December 16. His hobbies include basketball, football, tennis, hockey and martial arts.



Amelia
Marshall
as Liz Sanbourne

Amelia Marshall portrays Liz Sanbourne, a woman who owns a small restaurant/hotel and who plays a pivotal role in the lives of Harmony residents.

Marshall's television credits include contract roles on “All My Children” and “Guiding Light” as well as a recurring role on “One Life to Live” and appearances on “The District,” “Lizzie McGuire” and “Cosby.” She has appeared on Broadway in “Big Deal” and “Harrigan and Hart” and toured nationally in “Cats” and “West Side Story.” Marshall’s additional theater credits include “Minor Demons,” “Coming Apart Together,” “Skyline” and “Applause.” She has also appeared in the operas “Porgy and Bess” and “Treemonisha.”

Born on April 2, Amelia lives in Los Angeles, CA with her son Marshall

Eric
Martsolf
as Ethan Winthrop

Eric Martsolf plays Ethan Winthrop, the bright and attractive attorney, former heir apparent to the Crane Dynasty and ex-fiancé of Theresa Lopez-Fitzgerald on NBC’s “Passions.”

Martsolf's previous credits include the character of "Pharoah" in the Osmond National Touring Company of Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, "Danny Zuko" in Grease and "Professor Higgins" in My Fair Lady, at the Dauphin Theatre, as well as a regular on-stage singing and acting partner with legendary country super-star Dolly Parton at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Additionally, Martsolf has appeared as the lead in two independent films "The Cheater" and "Omum" and in a supporting role in the independent film "If Lucy Fell."

A native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Martsolf's birth date is July 27. His hobbies are singing he is a trained vocalist, and all sports, particularly tennis.



Ben
Masters
as Julian Crane

Veteran actor Ben Masters plays Julian Crane, the rich, powerful, and arrogant son of "Passions" patriarch Alistair Crane.

Well-known for the variety of roles he has played on series such as "Heartbeat," "Murder She Wrote," "Diagnosis Murder," "Touched by an Angel" and "Sisters," Masters has also acquired a long list of made-for-television movie credits such as "Noble House," "Deliberate Stranger" and "Celebrity." Masters began his acting career after graduating from the University of Oregon as a Theatre major by going to Broadway to star in "Plenty", "The Cherry Orchard", "Waltz of Toreadors" and "Captain Brassbound's Conversion".

Masters, who is single, currently resides in Palm Springs and enjoys golfing, skiing and gourmet cooking. He was born on May 6.


Kelli
McCarty
as Beth Wallace

Kelli McCarty plays the recurring role of "Beth Wallace," the hardworking high school sweetheart and ex-fiancee, of the handsome Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald.

Kelli's other television credits include “Melrose Place,” “Pacific Blue,” “Diagnosis Murder,” “Silk Stalkings,” “Dream On,” “Beverly Hills 90210” and “Second Chances.” Her film credits include “Recoil,” “The Last Bachelor,” “Dogs and Appetizers,” “Beach House” and “Rhino Skin.”

The former Miss USA winner lives in Los Angeles with her husband. Her birthday is September 6 and she enjoys golf, all water sports and yoga

Ryan
McPartlin
as Hank Bennett

Daytime television newcomer Ryan McPartlin plays Hank Bennett, the handsome and sexy world-traveling younger brother of police chief Sam Bennett.

Born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, McPartlin graduated with a degree in Speech Communication from the University of Illinois where he played football in the Big Ten Conference. After graduating, he traveled to Australia and New Zealand to explore the outback and relocated to Southern California to pursue his dream of acting upon his return
.
McPartlin recently appeared on NBC's ‘Three Sisters’ and has guest-starred on ‘The Nanny’.
He spends a great deal of his time away from work taking acting classes, and doing nearly any outdoor physical activity he can find including scuba diving, tennis, snowboarding and racquetball. He is a board certified personal trainer.

Ryan was born on July 3rd. He is single and resides in Los Angeles, CA.



Jesse
Metcalfe
as Miguel Lopez-Fitgerald

Jesse Metcalfe portrays Miguel Lopez-Fitzgerald, the youngest son of Pilar and brother to Luis and Theresa. Miguel is deeply in love with Charity Standish.

Originally from Waterford, Conn., Metcalfe attended the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. He has appeared in the student films "Jesus and Tequila" and "Phasmogoria." Metcalfe was cast for his role on "Passions" when he attended an open audition in New York City.

Born on December 9, Metcalfe is a die-hard basketball fan, plays the guitar and likes to sing.


Juliet
Mills
as Tabitha Lenox

Emmy award-winning Juliet Mills portrays Tabitha Lenox, the seemingly thoughtful and sweet next-door neighbor who is really a 300 year-old witch intent on wreaking havoc on the residents of Harmony.

A member of the famous British family that includes her father actor Sir John Mills, her mother, playwright Lady Mary Mills and sister, actress Hayley Mills, Juliet has performed on stage on both Broadway and in the West End of London. She received an Emmy as Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Special for the mini-series "QB VII," two Golden Globe nominations; one for her infamous portrayal as Phoebe Figalilly in the television series "Nanny and the Professor" and one for her leading role opposite Jack Lemmon in Billy Wilder's "Avanti!" Mills also received a Tony nomination for her role as Pamela Harrington in "Five Finger Exercise."

Mills has a multitude of theatre credits including the title role in "Lady Windermere's Fan," The Royal Shakespeare Company's "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and "She Stoops to Conquer." She has performed many times alongside her husband, actor Maxwell Caulfield, in stage productions such as "The Elephant Man," "Dial M for Murder," and George Orwell's "1984," as well as numerous Equity Waiver productions in Los Angeles.

In addition to "Avanti!" Mills' other film credits include "The Other Sister," "Twice Around the Daffodils," "The Rare Breed" and numerous British films.

Juliet was born on November 21 in London, England and currently resides in Los Angeles, near the studio where she tapes “Passions,” with Maxwell. She has two children, writer, director and producer Sean Alquist and actress Melissa Caulfield who recently married actor David Tuchman.



Chrystee
Pharris
as Simone Russell

Chrystee Pharris joins the cast of Passions in the role of Simone Russell, the lively and vivacious youngest daughter of TC and Eve Russell.

Pharris' credits include recurring roles on “General Hospital” and “Moesha” and guest-star roles on “Sister, Sister,” “Kenan and Kel” as well as a lead in the pilot for MTV’s soap, “Spyder Games.”

Pharris graduated with a B.F.A. in Theater from Emerson College. Her hobbies are singing, modeling and rollerblading. She was born on March 7

Tracey
Ross
as Dr. Eve Russell

Tracey Ross portrays Dr. Eve Russell, Harmony’s beautiful and compassionate doctor, who has a sordid past. Dr. Russell is married to TC and mother to Whitney and Simone.

Ross began her career with a bang as “Star Search’s” first ,000 spokesmodel champion. Ross later won recurring roles on both “Ryan’s Hope” and “All My Children.” Her other television credits include “The Cosby Show,” “Doctor, Doctor,” “ROC,” “The Gregory Hines Show” and “Baywatch Nights.” Ross has appeared in the television movies “Mayflower Madam” and “Valley of the Dolls,” and made her feature film debut in “Unconditional Love.”

A native of Brooklyn, New York, Ross currently lives in Los Angeles with her son. She enjoys gardening, reading and rock climbing. Her birthday is February 27.



Dana
Sparks
as Grace Bennett

Dana Sparks plays Grace Bennett, the beautiful, amnesiac wife of police chief Sam Bennett. She also appears as Grace’s twin sister Faith Standish.

Sparks was born in the San Francisco suburb of Orinda, California. After enrolling in modeling school, she successfully auditioned for a national Coca-Cola commercial. Bitten with the acting bug Sparks’ first acting audition resulted in a contract role on the series “Cover Up.” Soon after, her neighbor, producer/director Blake Edwards, spied her on the beach in Malibu and cast her in the feature film “That’s Life.”
On her second series audition, Sparks won the role of Vicki Gioberti on “Falcon Crest,” where she spent two-and-one-half years. Her other television credits include “Melrose Place,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” “Murder, She Wrote,” “thirtysomething,” and NBC’s “L.A. Law.” She was most recently seen as Lieutenant Commander Carolyn Imes on the hit series “JAG.”

Sparks resides in Ventura County with her husband and dogs. An avid golfer, she enjoys playing in charity golf tournaments. Her birthday is August

Molly
Stanton
as Charity Standish

Molly Stanton portrays Charity Standish, niece of Grace and Sam Bennett. Charity is unaware of the powers of good that she possesses.

“Passions” was Stanton's first scripted audition and marks her television debut. She acted throughout junior high and high school in plays and musicals. In her junior year of high school, Stanton joined the Brentwood Theater Company, where she wrote, directed and performed a true story about nine high school boys on a camping trip and their lives when four of them are killed by a drunk driver. The play was so successful, that the troupe took it on summer tour to the Edinburgh Theater Festival in Scotland.

Born on March 13, Stanton's hobbies include playing the piano, the drums and guitar.


Eva
Tamargo Lemus
as Pilar Lopez-Fitzgerald

Eva Tamargo Lemus plays Pilar Lopez-Fitzgerald, a woman whose life has been filled with hardship and tragedy, but who is determined that her children will have opportunities that she was denied.

A native of Brooklyn, New York, Tamargo Lemus studied acting in New York under the guidance of Sam Waterston (NBC’s “Law & Order”), William Hickey and Dorothy Dorff. Her theater credits include “Don Juan,” “Rake of Seville,” “Yerma,” “Kennedy’s Children” and “Shadow Box.” A multi-cultural performer, her feature film credits include “El Magnate,” “Marla Elena,” “El Silencio de Neto” in addition to “Any Given Sunday,” and “Random Hearts.” Her additional television credits include “Sins of the City” and the television movie “Fortune Hunter.”

Tamargo Lemus is fluent in Spanish and English, and her interests include volleyball, skiing, ice skating, tennis and horseback riding. A long-time resident of Miami, Tamargo Lemus now lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two children. She was born on December 24.



Rodney
Van Johnson
as TC Russell

Rodney Van Johnson plays TC Russell, the often hot-tempered, high school athletic coach whose own professional tennis career was cruelly cut short by a mysterious accident involving Julian Crane.

A native of Cincinnati, Ohio, Van Johnson is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati with a degree in education. His television credits include the role of Sebastian on the daytime drama “Port Charles,” and the role of Trey on “The Young and the Restless.” He was a series regular on the syndicated series “Pensacola: Wings of Gold” and has made numerous guest appearances on “Grace Under Fire,” “Babylon 5,” “The Jamie Foxx Show” and NBC’s “Mad About You.”
Rodney is a spokesman and research advocate for the National Familial Pancreatic Tumor Registry at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Van Johnson lives in Los Angeles with his long-time girlfriend Carmen Obando and their son Quincy. His birthday is February 20.



McKenzie
Westmore
as Sheridan Crane

McKenzie Westmore plays Sheridan Crane, the stunning and compassionate daughter of “Passions” patriarch Alistair Crane and sister of the despicable Julian. She had found her soul-mate in Luis Lopez-Fitzgerald only to lose him when Julian tried to kill her. Westmore’s portrayal of this role earned her a 2001 Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Heroine.

Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, Westmore’s first feature film appearance came at the age of 3 when she played Robert DeNiro’s (as Jake LaMotta) daughter in the Oscar-winning “Raging Bull.” She also appeared in the film “Star Trek 9: Insurrection.” Her television credits include “Star Trek: Voyager,” “Weird Science,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and NBC’s “Days of Our Lives.” Most recently, she filmed a guest appearance on NBC’s hit comedy “Friends.”

Westmore has extensive theater training that includes the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute and the Uta Hagen Master Class. She is a trained opera singer and has appeared on stage in “Dido & Aneas,” “The Sound of Music” and “The Little Shop of Horrors.”

Her birthday is April 26 and her hobbies include singing, dancing and rollerblading. Westmore also is a trained equestrian and a certified personal trainer.



Deanna
Wright
as Kay Bennett

Deanna Wright plays Kay Bennett, the scheming and manipulative daughter of Harmony Police Chief Sam Bennett and his wife Grace.

Prior to “Passions,” Wright was a series regular on the controversial, never-aired series “Manchester Prep” for FOX. She has also appeared in numerous commercials for companies such as Sea World, London Life Insurance Co., Euro Disney and Splash Mountain. Her role on "Passions" is her first daytime television role.

Born and raised in Florida, where she lived with her parents and three siblings, Wright attended Central Florida Community College as a pre-med student. She relocated to Los Angeles after being cast as Kay.

Her hobbies include snorkeling, volleyball, cheerleading (coaching and choreographing) and she is an avid swimmer. Her birthday is January 11.



Natalie
Zea
as Gwen Hotchkiss

Natalie Zea made her debut in daytime television as socialite Gwen Hotchkiss.

A native of Monahans, Texas, Zea relocated to Los Angeles from New York City when she was chosen for the role on “Passions.” Zea's other credits include the Dick Wolf television series "D.C.", the films "Macbeth in Manhattan," "Creatures of Habit," "Kiss & Tell" and the acclaimed short "Boys Don't Cry" which was directed by Kimberly Pierce. Additionally, Zea has appeared in many national commercials for companies such as Dove, Snickers and Hellman's Salad Dressing.











Kristian
Alfonso
as Hope Williams Brady

Kristian Alfonso, whom “Soap Opera Digest” called one of the most beautiful women on television, made her debut on “Days of our Lives” as Hope Williams in 1983. The following year, she was named Outstanding Female Newcomer at the first annual “Soap Opera Digest” Awards, she earned her second “Soap Opera Digest” trophy in 1999 as Hottest Female Star and another this year for Favorite Couple with Peter Reckell.

Alfonso, a native of Brockton, Massachusetts, won a gold medal in figure skating at the Junior Olympics when she was 13. However, a bobsledding injury ended her skating career and she began modeling. By age 15, she had appeared internationally on the covers of 30 magazines, including “Vogue” and “Bazaar.”

At the age of 16, Alfonso played opposite Rock Hudson in the NBC movie “Starmaker.” She played Pilar Ortega on the primetime drama “Falcon Crest” and appeared in the recurring role of Lauren Etheridge on “Melrose Place.” Alfonso also starred with Shannen Doherty and Judd Nelson in the cable TV movie “Blindfold.” Her other television credits include hosting the syndicated talk show “Love Stories” and guest-starring on the second revival of the drama series “Burke’s Law.”

Alfonso’s feature film credits include starring in “Joshua Tree” opposite Dolph Lundgren.

Alfonso left “Days” in 1987 but reprised her role for a brief time in 1990. In May 1994, she returned as the amnesiac Gina (now Hope Williams Brady).

When she is not at work, Alfonso enjoys spending time with her son, Gino, in their California home. Alfonso’s birthday is September 5.



John
Aniston
as Victor Kiriakis

John Aniston has become a legend in daytime television for his portrayal of the powerful and manipulative Victor Kiriakis on “Days of our Lives.”

Aniston’s career started on the stage in the original New York production of the smash hit musical ‘Little Mary Sunshine.’ His most recent stage appearance was in the Hollywood Production of the greatest of American dramas, ‘Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman.’ In between were 40 other productions on Broadway, off Broadway and in regional stock or Equity Wavier Theaters. Along the way there were several dozen primetime television shows and a smattering of feature films.

He is most familiar to fans of daytime since he has appeared almost continually since 1975. He joined the cast of ‘Days of our Lives’ during the summer of 1985 as the nefarious ‘Victor Kiriakis.” He received double honors as Outstanding Leading Actor and as Outstanding Villain at ‘The Third Annual Soap Opera Awards’ in 1986. His other daytime credits include ‘Search for Tomorrow’ and ‘Love of Life.’

Acting runs in the family. John’s daughter, Jennifer Aniston, portrays ‘Rachel’ on NBC’s hit comedy series ‘Friends.’

Aniston was born on the island of Crete and is fluent in Greek and Spanish. He graduated from Penn State University with a BA in Theater Arts, served in the US Navy as an intelligence officer on active duty in Panama and later in the reserve attaining the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He currently resides in Los Angeles, He is married to actress Sherry Rooney-Aniston and they have a son, Alexander.



Matthew
Ashford
as Jack Deveraux

In February of 2001, fans rejoiced when Matthew Ashford rejoined the cast of “Days of our Lives” to reprise the role of Jack Deveraux. Ashford first portrayed the wildly popular, and somewhat off centered, hero for six years, beginning in 1987. The role of Jack earned Ashford five Soap Opera Awards in categories ranging from Outstanding Comic Performer to Best Love Story (along with Melissa Reeves' portrayal of Jennifer) to Outstanding Villain.

Ashford worked many odd jobs in order to attend the North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. After college graduation, Matt moved to New York City where he was quickly put on a holding contract with ABC, which led to the role of Drew Ralston on “One Life to Live.” His career in daytime television continued with roles on “Search for Tommorrow,” and “General Hospital.” He has also been featured in the films “Species,” “Bonfire of the Vanities,” and “Billy's Hollywood Screen Kiss,” starring Sean Hayes (NBC’s “Will & Grace”). Ashford guest starred on the hit comedy “Dharma and Greg” and he remains an active member of the Interact Theatre Company in Los Angeles.

Ashford and his wife are the parents of two daughters, Grace and Emma. Ashford is a spokesperson for Retinoblastoma International, an organization the Ashfords were instrumental in forming after Emma was diagnosed with the rare form of infant eye cancer, from which she is now in remission. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, camping, having outdoor adventures, and above all, being with his family. Ashford celebrates his birthday on January 29th.


Robert
Benvenisti
as Kevin Lambert

Robert Benvenisti portrays Salem High School student Kevin Lambert, a lothario masked as a nerd, on NBC's number one daytime drama, “Days of our Lives.”

It was while attending the State University of New York in Albany that Benvenisti discovered that acting was his passion after taking a few elective theatre courses. After graduating college with a business degree, he landed a job with AT&T, but he couldn't repress his desire to be an actor and was fortunate that AT&T transferred him to Los Angeles.

Upon arriving in Hollywood, Benvenisti juggled his demanding job at AT&T with intense acting classes and roles in independent films, among them “Rendezvous” and “A Visit from Incubus.” His dream to become a working actor came true when he landed the role of Kevin. He quickly said good-bye to AT&T and hello to kissing some of the more popular members of the female student body at Salem High.
In his spare time, Benvenisti enjoys playing roller hockey (which is hockey on roller skates), going to the gym and chilling out in Hermosa Beach where he resides. Born in Long Island, New York, he is a first generation American as both his parents were both born in Israel. Benvenisti celebrates his birthday on December 23rd.



Nadia
Bjorlin
as Chloe Lane

Landing the coveted role of reclusive, musically gifted Chloe on “Days of our Lives,” was a opportunity that Nadia Bjorlin has been preparing for her all her life.

Bjorlin inherited a passion for music early in her life from her father, renowned Maestro Ulf Bjorlin. She performed professionally for the first time at the age 8 with two of her brothers, forming the BJORLIN TRIO. She also performed in two musicals, “The Snow Queen,” and “The Portrait of Raoul Wallenberg.” Bjorlin later attended the prestigious Interlochen Center for the Arts and the Boston University Tangelwood Institute, where she received recognition for excellence in theater, voice, music and dance. Bjorlin also attended the Palm Beach County School of the Arts for two years. In 1996 Bjorlin won gold metal at the International Vocal Competition, and in 1996 she won first place in the Metro Lyric Opera Competition in New York City.

Bjorlin has graced the covers of several international fashion publications and danced with Ricky Martin music video for “Shake Your Bon Bon.”

In her spare time, Bjorlin enjoys horseback riding, ice skating, swimming, and all kind of music and dance. She plays the piano, flute, and is learning to play the guitar. Bjorlin celebrates her birthday on August 2nd


Tanya
Boyd
as Celeste Perrault

Tanya Boyd portrays the spiritually enlightened Celeste Perrault on Days of our Lives.

While growing up in Detroit, Michigan, Boyd became aware at an early age that if she wanted t succeed, she would have to be her own motivating force. “I knew at seven years old that I wanted to be an actor, “ she admits, “there was no doubt in my mind.” As time passed, she heard of the renowned Lee Strasberg Institute as headed for New York City. After several years of living in New York and receiving solid training, she came to Los Angeles, ready to pursue her dreams.

Her acting career was interrupted a few times along the way. Having been blessed with remarkable musical abilities, Boyd was offered exciting opportunities to perform on tour and travel the world as a back-up vocalist with such well-know artists as Anita Baker, Lou Rawls, Bobby Lyle and Natalie Cole. Boyd soon realized that her passion for acting was overwhelming and returned to Los Angeles.

Boyd, whose first love is the theater, starred in ‘Cotton, Jelly’s Last Jam’ and the award-winning ‘No Place To Be Somebody.’ In 1993, she received a Drama-Logue Critics Award for Best Performance in the world premier of ‘Indigo Blues.’ In 1994, Boyd was cast as Celeste on ‘Days of our Lives.’

In 1993 and 1994, Boyd directed two summer festival Main Stage productions at the Mojo Theater Ensemble Company in Los Angeles. Additionally, she directed a comedy entitled ‘The Mojo Man’ for the NAACP Playwright’s Competition. The play won first-runner up. Boyd directed the critically-acclaimed play entitled ‘For You,’ based on the life of the late Greg Morris who played the memorable ‘Barney Collier’ in the 1970’s hit Mission Impossible.

Currently, Boyd is on the road to making another dream come true: to become a film and TV director. Her short film ‘The gift’ marks her entry into the feature film arena. “I find the technical aspects and fast pace of directing fascinating,” She admits. Boyd is often asked which she prefers: acting, singing, or directing? “All of the above,” she replies, “one just enhances the other.”

Boyd celebrates her birthday on March 20th.


Matt
Cedeno
as Brandon Walker

Matt Cedeno turned to modeling when a high school injury abruptly ended his promising football career. As a consolation, he won modeling gigs in Italy, Spain, New York and Los Angeles. Now he joins the “Days” cast as the mysterious Brandon.

Cedeno recently appeared in the feature film “Price of Glory” for New Line Cinema and is prominent in the upcoming “The Suburbans” for release by Sony Pictures. He was named one of People Magazine's 50 Most Beautiful People in the world in 2002. Fortunately for those Matt fans, he is very prompt at returning fan mail.

Although he was born and raised in Washington state, Cedeno makes his home in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles. In his leisure time, he enjoys hiking, boxing, traveling and spending time with his friends. His birthday is November 14.




John
Clarke
as Mickey Horton

One of two remaining original cast members, John Clarke has portrayed attorney Mickey Horton since the series’ premiere in November 1965. He was also featured on the series “Hart to Hart” and in the film “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.”

Clarke was born in South Bend, Indiana. As the son of a career U.S. Army officer, Clarke has lived in 20 states, and he graduated from high school while in Tokyo. He earned bachelor of arts and master’s degrees in television arts from UCLA. He has been married for over 30 years. In his spare time, he enjoys riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. His birthday is April 14.



Jason
Cook
as Shawn D. Brady

Daytime television newcomer Jason Cook could not have asked for better “soap opera” genes; his character, Sean-D, is the heir apparent to one of television’s super-couples, Bo & Hope, on NBC’s number one daytime drama, “Days of Our Lives.” Cook was recently awarded a 2001 Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Younger Lead Actor for his portrayal of Shawn Brady.

His first foray into show business was as a pianist and promising, young musician but it was not until high school, when Cook stepped in at the last minute for the lead in the school play “Whodunnit,” that he knew he wanted to pursue a career in acting. Cook’s first professional acting gig was as host for the Disney Channel’s “Project Time” followed by various roles ranging from “Tony” in Westside Story to “Dimitrius” in Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Civic Arts Shakespeare Summer Festival. His additional television credits include a guest star role on Nickelodeon’s “The Amanda Show.” Currently Cook performs with an improvisational comedy sketch troop, which he formed with some friends.

Originally from New Jersey, the Cooks moved to California when Jason was born. He currently resides with his parents and his three siblings in Los Angeles, California. In his spare time, he enjoys reading and working on his screenplay. He celebrates his birthday on September 13.


Patrika
Darbo
as Nancy Wesley

Soon after arriving in Los Angeles, Patrika Darbo supported herself as a credit manager while investing every spare minute canvassing the town for creditable acting gigs – that is, until her boss forced her to make a decision between the two. Since choosing to devote herself full-time to an acting career, she has never looked back.

Not long after, Darbo won a role in the stage production of “Cheatin’” followed by “Daddy’s Dyin’…Who’s Got the Will?” She re-created the role in the film version and received a Golden Cane Award at the 10th International Comedy Film Festival in Vevey, Switzerland.

However, her most memorable role -- besides her current run as the ruthless Nancy Wesley in “Days” -- could be the one she played in the Burbank Little Theatre production of “Anything Goes,” where she met her future husband, Rolf Darbo. Since then, she has amassed feature film credits in “In the Line of Fire,” “Leaving Normal,” “Corinna, Corinna” and “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” She also was the voice of one of the sheep in “Babe.” Her TV movie credits include “The Ruby Bridges Story” and “Roseanne and Tom: Behind the Scenes” (as Roseanne). She also guest-starred in “Seinfeld,” “Sisters,” “Growing Pains,” “Grace Under Fire” and “General Hospital.”

Darbo’s stage credits list “Never Too Late,” “The American Dream,” “Cat On a Hot Tin Roof,” “Don’t Drink the Water” and “Club Indigo, Revisited.”

Darbo has been named Outstanding Female Newcomer at the Soap Opera Awards. She and her husband have two dogs, a cairn terrier and a shepherd/chow/labrador/akita mixed breed. Darbo celebrates her birthday April 6.


Bryan
Dattilo
as Lucas Roberts

Bryan Dattilo, who plays the ambitious executive Lucas Roberts, joined the cast of "Days of our Lives" in April 1993.

Before coming to "Days," he appeared on NBC's Saturday morning series California Dreams and on various primetime series, including NBC's "In the Heat of the Night," as well as "Doogie Howser, M.D.," "Class of '96" and "Charles in Charge." Dattilo also played a street-wise teenager in the feature film "Arcade."

Dattilo was born in Kankakee, Illinois. He later moved with his family to Beverly Hills, where he attended Beverly Hills High School. He enjoys traveling, surfing and playing baseball and basketball. He has an older brother and sister and three younger half-sisters. Dattilo's birthday is July 29.
Farah
Fath
as Mimi Lockhart

Farah Fath portrays Mimi Lockhart, an insecure teen on ‘Days of our Lives.’

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, in 1984, Fath grew up with stars in her eyes. ‘I loved being in the spotlight ever since I can remember,’ recounts the energetic teen. Farah began her show business career as a child model at the tender age of five. When she was eight years old, Farah traveled to Los Angeles to participate in an International Model and Talent Convention. The young beauty began competing in pageants at eleven years of age and was crowned ‘Miss Kentucky Pre-Teen’ in 1995. Farah was a National speech Winner in several pageants.

Fath juggled modeling assignments, commercials, and pageant competitions with academics, but still found time to be a cheerleader in junior high. Farah’s life changed forever in January of 1999 when she returned to Los Angeles to attend another International Model and Talent Convention; she walked away with a few awards and an agent. Reluctantly, Fath returned to Kentucky to finish her freshman year of high school, knowing that she would return to Los Angeles with her mother that summer to make the audition rounds. In July of 1999, Farah’s agent called with the news that she booked an audition with ‘Days of our Lives.’ Farah landed the role of Mimi on her very first audition in Hollywood.

When she isn’t working or spending endless hours in the ‘Days of our Lives’ school room, Farah enjoys shopping, hanging out with her new LA friends, and attending church regularly. Farah’s prized possession is her Cockapoo named Ziggy, who is half cockerspaniel and half Toy Poodle. She unwinds listening to her favorite band, Hanson, and watching her favorite show, ‘Friends,’ starring her favorite actress, Lisa Kudrow.

Farah celebrates her birthday on May 1st.


Deidre
Hall
as Dr. Marlena Evans

Deidre Hall originally joined “Days of our Lives” as the compassionate Dr. Marlena Evans in 1976. Hall left the series in 1987 to focus on a career in primetime television and returned to “Days” in August 1991.

She has earned three Emmy Award nominations and three People’s Choice Award nominations for her work on “Days of our Lives.” She has been named Outstanding Actress six times in the 16-year history of the “Soap Opera Digest” Awards.

Hall starred on the NBC drama “Our House” and appeared in many miniseries and television movies, including “And the Sea Will Tell,” “Woman On a Ledge,” “For the Very First Time” and “Take My Daughters, Please.” She has also made guest appearances on several primetime series, including “Wiseguy.” Her stage credits include “A. R. Gurney’s Love Letters.”

Hall, who has an identical twin, was born in Milwaukee and raised in Florida. She is married to novelist Steve Sohmer (“Favorite Son”) and they have two children. Hall enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. Her birthday is October 31.

Bill
Hayes
as Doug Williams

Bill Hayes burst onto the early national television scene in Olsen & Johnson’s madcap series Fire-Ball Run-For-All. From there he was tapped by Producer Max Liebman to be a featured singer on Your Show of Shows starring Sid Caesar and Imogene Coca. Bill made hit Broadway debt in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s ‘Me and Juliet,’ followed with a gold record for ‘The Ballad of Davy Crockett’ (over 3,000,000 sold!)

Bill’s major films were the Warner Brothers farce/musical ‘Stop! You’re Killing Me’ and Otto Preminger’s ‘The Cardinal’. He hosted NBC-Radio Monitor for a year, was a national spokesman for Oldsmobile for four years, and took ‘Bye Bye Birdie’ on its one-year national tour. In addition to these highlights of the 50’s and 60’s, Bill’s career was interspersed with variety performances on RV with Kate Smith, Ed Sullivan, Perry Como, Milton Berle, Ernie Kovacs, Jo Stafford, Jack Paar, Bing Crosby, and the ‘Bell Telephone Hour;’ dramatic RV shows such as U.S. Steel Hour, Hallmark Hall of Fame and Carol Burnett’s ‘Once Upon a Mattress; vaudeville turns at the Chicago Theater and New York’s ‘Roxy;’ and café’s such as the ‘Blue Angel’ and the St. Regis hotel in New York, the Drake Hotel in Chicago, the Fontainbleau in Miami.

Theater tours included ‘Student Prince,’ ‘Anything Goes,’ ‘Camelot,’ ‘On a Clear Day,’ and ‘Pajama Game.’ And in addition to the New York City Center revival of 'Brigadoon', Bill’s considerable regional theater appearances included ‘On the Town,’ ‘Of Thee I Sing.’ ‘Merry Widow,’ ‘Mikado,’ ‘Miss Liberty,’ ‘Music in the Air,’ ‘Tree Grows in Brooklyn,’ ‘South Pacific,’ ‘Out of This World,’ ‘Fanny,’ ‘Dark of the Moon,’ ‘Good News,’ ‘Oklahoma,’ ‘Girl Crazy,’ ‘Who Was that Lady?,’ ‘Where’s Charley?,’ ‘Foxy, Sunday in New York,’ ‘Green Grow the Lilacs,’ ‘She Loves Me,’ ‘Moon is Blue’ Fantasticks,’ ‘Carousel,’ ‘Song of Norway,’ ‘Desert Song,’ ‘Guys & Dolls,’ ‘George M!,’ and ‘Same Time Next Year.’ Bill’s list totals over 87 musicals and 28 plays, at theaters in nearly all 50 states!

In the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s, Bill Hayes has portrayed ‘Doug Williams’ on NBC’s Emmy-award-winning ‘Days of our Lives’ (1850 episodes, and still counting!) for which he garnered two Emmy nominations, and several Best Actor Awards from national publications. Also during that period, Bill appeared as a regular on Hollywood Squares and as a frequent guest with Johnny, Phil, Dinah, Mike and Merv, more recently with Marilu, Geraldo, and Oprah.

In the 90’s, Bill starred on TV’s ‘Matlock,’ ‘Hooperman,’ and ‘Cop Rock’, and in the award-winning film ‘Wrestling with God.’ His stints with Ann Blyth at the Dunes in Vegas and Rainbow and Stars in New York drew raves from the critics. (‘Not only does Hayes still belt ‘em out, he can tap!;) His work on stage in the 90’s included ‘Fagin’ in ‘Oliver!’, ‘DeBecue’ in ‘South Pacific’, ‘the devil’ in ‘Damn Yankees,’ ‘Scrooge’ and ‘Marley’ in ‘A Christmas Carol,’ ‘Michael’ in ‘I Do I Do’ and ‘George in Bernard Slade’s new play ‘Same Time Another Year.’ (Feb ’00)


Susan
Hayes
as Julie Williams

Susan Seaforth Hayes, professional actress by trade, is a historian by desire. Her degree from Los Angels City College is in history, and the stack of books at her deskside reflects an intense interest in the American West and diverse Native American cultures. Had she not been so talented an actress, she probably would be teaching today, or writing history books.

But it seems that Susan was destined to spend her life on stage and in front of the cameras. Her initial theatrical experience was at the age of four, playing Trouble in Dorothy Kirsten’s "Madame Butterfly" for the Metropolitan Opera company. As a pre-teen, she toured with Billie Burke in "Mother was a Bachelor," and as a teenager, she developed her crafts in the exciting world of television: "Matinee Theatre," "Lassie," "The Eve Arden Show," "The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp," "The New Loretta Young Show," "The Danny Thomas Show"; and films: "Five Pennies," "Angel in My Pocket," "Billy," "California."

Susan plugged away at her college studies, interspersing classes with film, TV, and stage work. She plumbed emotional depths of TV’s "Dragnet," The F.B.I.," "Death Valley Days," "Bonanza," "Hallmark," "My Three Sons," "The Fugitive," "Hawaiian Eye," "77 Sunset Strip," "The Man from U.N.C.L.E.," "Wagon Train," "Perry Mason," "Emergency!," "Adam-12" and "Ironside." And touched dramatic heights on stage in "Come Blow Your Horn," "Mary Mary," "Time Remembered" and "Ring Round the Moon."

But when she discovered the exciting/demanding world of soaps Susan was forced to curtail her academic work. "Young Married," (2 yrs.) "General Hospital" (1 yr.), "The Young and the Restless" (5 yrs.) and "Days of our Lives" (26 years!) put a serious dent in her classroom attendance record. This was not without its rewards, however, as the sudsy genre produced for her four Emmy nominations, several Best Actress Awards, a "Time" Magazine cover, many years of Top-Ten Lists in fan-mags, and even a husband, when in 1974 Susan married her "Days" co-star Bill Hayes.

In recent years, though Susan lectured at Los Angeles Valley College and Boston University, here time still was basically devoted to stage, TV and film, including "Oklahoma," "The Two of Us," "I Do, I Do," "Same Time Next Year," "Harvey," "Mattock," "Heartbeat," "The Dream Machine," "Wrestling With God," "42nd Street," "Social Security," and a 1993 13-week tour of "Oliver!" In Florida, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur! Also in the 90’s, Susan wowed Birmingham audiences as Mama Rose in "Gypsy," toured Love Letters extensively, played the wily Mrs. Rubinstein on TV’s "Platypus Man," and charmed West Virginia Public Theatre fans in "A Christmas Carol," and "Cinderella."

In 1997, Susan co-starred in the premiere of Bernard Slade’s new play "Same Time Another Year"; in the spring of 1999, she created the take-charge role of District Attorney Steel on NBC’s "Sunset Beach"; and in the fall of 1999, she returned once again to add her personal spice to the character of Julie on "Days of our Lives." History will just have to wait while Susan does her thing.



Drake
Hogestyn
as John Black

In his youth, Drake Hogestyn had designs on careers in dentistry and professional baseball before he joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” as the heroic John Black in January 1986. In 1994 he won the “Soap Opera Digest” Award for Hottest Male Star.

Hogestyn’s first career goal was to become a dentist. He attended the University of South Florida in Tampa on a baseball scholarship and majored in pre-dentistry. After graduation, he was drafted by the New York Yankees and played third base for one of the Yankees’ farm teams until he was injured in 1978.

Hogestyn then began his acting career by entering a Columbia Pictures national talent search that included 75,000 hopefuls. Hogestyn was among the 30 selected, and his first starring role was on the primetime series “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.”

Hogestyn was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He’s married to his childhood sweetheart, Victoria, and they have one son and three daughters. Hogestyn’s birthday is September 29


Jay Kenneth
Johnson
as Philip Kiriakis

Jay Kenneth Johnson assumes the role of Philip Kiriakis, a character with perhaps the most unusual parentage in all of daytime television; Philip was born from a stolen embryo that was implanted into the womb of his mother’s archenemy. With his father recently released from a nursing home and his mother determined to destroy the woman who gave birth to him, the young Kiriakis heir has a great deal more than a gambling addiction to deal with this winter on NBC Television’s number one daytime drama, “Days of Our Lives.”

A native of Springfield, Missouri, Johnson knew while he was growing up that he either wanted to be an actor or a professional athlete, but once he attended college at Southwest Missouri State where he majored in Business and Theatre, Johnson knew acting would be his future. Prior to relocating to Los Angeles, Johnson appeared in a few commercials and then tried his hand at modeling before landing the role of “Brendan” on The Young and the Restless.

Johnson currently lives in Los Angeles but he keeps in close contact with his younger siblings Jeff and Jenna. In his spare time he enjoys reading, roller-blading, beach going, sports and music and would someday like to start his own band. Johnson celebrates his birthday on February 24.


Renee
Jones
as Lexie Carver

Renee Jones was born into a large family of five siblings in Opalacka, Florida, and grew up in Georgia and New York. She worked as a secretary before chucking her clerical duties, and at the age of 19, signed with the prestigious Ford modeling agency and later made her acting debut on the primetime series “The White Shadow.”

Since then, she has guest-starred on a wide array of television series, including NBC’s “L.A. Law” and “Night Court,” as well as “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” “In the Heat of the Night,” “Sunset Beat,” “American Dreams,” “21 Jump Street,” “Insiders,” “Highway to Heaven,” “Marblehead Manor,” “What’s Happening Now!!,” “T.J. Hooker,” “Bodies of Evidence,” “Jessie” and “Trapper John, M.D.” She had a starring role in the feature film “Talkin’ Dirty After Dark” and was featured in the Boyz II Men music video “On Bended Knee” with Lark Voorhies, Kim Fields and Victoria Rowell.

Jones made her debut on “Days of Our Lives” as the ambitious and alluring Lexie Carver in February 1993.

Off the set, Jones enjoys reading, playing tennis and working out. She also takes self-defense classes. Her birthday is October 15.


Lauren
Koslow
as Kate Roberts

While a theater arts student at Virginia State University, Lauren Koslow was one designing woman who was equally adept at creating costumes and characters. She eventually earned her degree, (after first attending the University of Massachusettts) specializing in costume design, and later won a design award at the Kennedy Center’s American College Theater Festival in Washington, D.C. After graduating, Koslow joined a summer-stock theater group in Virginia, where she doubled as a costume designer and an actress.

Acting soon won out for Koslow’s time and energies. She appeared in regional productions, including “Cat On a Hot Tin Roof,” “Dial M for Murder” and “The Importance of Being Earnest,” as well as in the Atlanta Shakespeare Festival productions of “Two Gentlemen of Verona” and Moliere’s “Tartuffe.” She then moved to Los Angeles to pursue a television career and landed roles on such programs as NBC’s “The Nanny.” and “The A-Team,” as well as “The New Mike Hammer,” “Spies” with George Hamilton and “House Calls.”

Before Lauren Koslow joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” as Kate Roberts in January 1996, she was already well known to daytime audiences for her roles as Lindsay Wells on “The Young and the Restless” (1984-86) and Margo Lynley on “The Bold and the Beautiful” (1987-92).

Koslow, a native of Boston, is married to makeup artist Nick Schillace, and they have two children, Zachariah and Millikate. She enjoys traveling, painting and taking care of her pets, which include three dogs, a cat, a bird with an attitude, two lizards, chickens, two pet rats, three horses and a pony. Her birthday is March 6.

Kyle
Lowder
as Brady Black

Kyle Lowder portrays rebellious Brady Black, son of John and Isabella Black, back from boarding school with an attitude.

Lowder was born in St. Louis, Missouri, but his family moved to Pleasantville, New York when he was six years old. Lowder excelled in both athletics and performing arts during his four years at Pleasantville High School. During his senior year of high school, Lowder decided that performing arts was truly his passion and was accepted into the prestigious Syracuse University Drama Department. Lowder appeared in several national advertising campaigns and runway shows for Abercrombie & Fitch and Speedo before landing the heavily anticipated role of Brady.

While his two brothers and his parents remain in New York, Lowder currently resides in Los Angeles with his fiancée, co-star Arianne Zuker. In his spare time, he enjoys working out, going to the beach, and is a self professed movie buff. He celebrates his birthday on August 27th.

Peggy
McCay
as Caroline Brady

Emmy Award winner Peggy McCay joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” as Caroline Brady in January 1983.

A native of Manhattan, McCay attended Barnard College and earned a bachelor of arts degree from Columbia University. Two weeks after her graduation, she won a role in a Kraft Television Theater production. At 19, she went on tour in Tennessee Williams’ “Summer and Smoke” with the Margo Jones Repertory Company.

McCay won an Emmy as Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her performance on “The Trials of Rosie O’Neill.” She also earned an Emmy nomination for her work in the miniseries “Woman On the Run: The Lawrencia Bambenek Story.” Her birthday is November 3.


Justin
Melvey
as Colin Murphy

Justin Melvey's joined the cast of “Days of our Lives” as Colin Murphy, a member of the Brady clan from Ireland who shares a mysterious past with Jennifer Horton and an equally mysterious connection to the DiMera family. Melvey comes to “Days” direct from Australia where he earned the prestigious “Logie” Award (equivalent to the American Emmy) for Best New Talent on Australian Television.

A former pro skier and model, Melvey’s portrayal of Harry Keller Reynolds on Australia's premier nighttime soap, "Home and Away” made him a household name in his native country. When he left the show after two years, Melvey decided to test his skills as a Shakespearean thespian in one of the lead roles in "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare" which opened at the Sydney Opera House. Melvey took advantage of the opportunity to stretch his talents on stage and played Hamlet, MacBeth, King Lear, Titus, and 33 of Shakespeare's other leading men.

Melvey’s first role as an actor was in the student film, "The Promise Land." This led to other films including "Cloud 2000," "The Burning Boys," and the "Mametville Murders" with additional television appearances in the "The Young and the Restless." He is currently involved in an action rescue series called "The Extremists," being developed by Caldera/De Fanit for worldwide syndication.

"The Extremists" was inspired by Justin's own dedication to extreme sports, including freestyle "chopper-drop" skiing. Melvey also spent 10 years as a lifeguard, holding Active Reserve Status and he holds a 2nd degree blackbelt in the Japanese style Shotokan Karate.

Dedicated to his work for charity, Justin has helped to fund a children's hospital in Australia, and has worked with the Leukemia Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Melvey recently relocated to Los Angeles and is single.
Frank
Parker
as Shawn Brady

In his youth, Frank Parker had the privilege of working with Elvis Presley on two of the King’s feature films, “Elvis and His Girls” and “Stay Away Joe.”

Parker joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” as Shawn Brady, the strong, confident family man and owner of Brady Pub, in January 1983.

He made his television debut as a bully on the series “Gomer Pyle.” He also had roles on the daytime dramas “Never Too Young,” “All My Children”, “One Life to Live,” “General Hospital” and “The Young and the Restless.”

A native of Darby, Pennsylvania, Parker earned a bachelor of arts degree in theater from Carnegie Tech University (now Carnegie-Mellon) in Pittsburgh. He has been married for 17 years and has three children. His birthday is July 1.

Thaao
Penghlis
as Tony DiMera

Proving that you can't keep a bad man down, Thaao Penghlis triumphantly returns to NBC's number one daytime drama “Days of our Lives” in the role of Tony DiMera, the new patriarch of the evil DiMera empire.

Beginning in 1981, Penghlis has portrayed multi-faceted villain Tony DiMera, as well as his twin brother Andre, on and off for the past 20 years. Penghlis left the show in 1986 and returned for a second stint of evildoing from 1993 until 1996, when the character of Tony was killed off. Quick thinking on Penghlis' part enabled the current “Days of our Lives” writing team to bring Tony back from the dead. In 1996, during his final days taping on the show, Penghlis displayed strange quirks that didn't quite fit with his characterm providing future scribes the possibility that an imposter had died, enabling the son of “The Phoenix” to rise again.

Penghlis was born and raised in Sydney, Australia to Greek-born parents. In a bold move, Penghlis decided to move to New York City to study art history and fashion. While in New York City, he met legendary acting coach and theatre director Milton Katselas, who helped the young student discover his true calling, acting. Penghlis made his New York stage debut in the critically acclaimed off-Broadway play “Jockeys.”

Penghlis has appeared in the films “Slow Dancing in the Big City,” and “Altered States.” Daytime audiences were introduced to Penghlis on “General Hospital,” where he portrayed devious Victor Cassadine. After Victor met his untimely fate, as many soap opera villains do, Penghlis won the role of charismatic Tony DiMera on “Days of our Lives.” His additional television credits include drama professor Nicholas Black on the prime-time series revival of “Mission: Impossible,” as well as roles in the miniseries “Sadat,” Sydney Sheldon's “Memories of Midnight,” and the critically acclaimed made for television film “Under Seige.” More recently, Penghlis starred opposite Antonio Sabato and Joanna Cassidy in the miniseries “Tribe.” But perhaps his most unusual role was playing the lover of Dame Edna (Barry Humphries) in the cult classic “Les Patterson Saves the World.”
Even with his demanding schedule on Days of our Lives, Penghlis is busy working on his one-man show, in which he plans to star, about the infamous Greek revolutionary Alexander Panagoulis.

A world class traveler, Penghlis recently visited Greece and Egypt and was able to indulge his lifelong fascination with archaeology by viewing and researching over 60,000 documents, letters and diaries of a famous archeologist who is the subject of his latest screenplay. The ultimate adventurer, Penghlis has trekked across the Sinai desert, climbed Mt. Sinai and soared in a hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings in Egypt.

He celebrates his birthday on December 15th.

Peter
Reckell
as Bo Brady

Peter Reckell knew the way back to Salem when he re-joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” for the third time in 1995 as the hunky Bo Brady.

Reckell made his network-television debut as Eric Hollister on “As the World Turns.” He then played Bo on “Days” from 1983-87 and later from 1990-91. He returned to the role of the rugged cop for the third time in August 1995. During part of his absence from “Days,” Reckell appeared in the recurring role of Johnny Rourke on the primetime series “Knots Landing.”

Among Reckell’s stage credits are “Moonchildren,” “The Fantasticks,” “Pirates of Penzance,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Love Letters” and “Death Trap.” His feature film credits include Rustam Ibraguimbekov’s “Broken Bridges,” which was filmed in Russia.

Reckell was born in Elkart, Indiana, but grew up on a farm in Michigan. The second oldest of six children, he has two brothers and three sisters. While in junior high school, Reckell built theater sets and performed in the chorus, and eventually became a theater technical director. He went on to appear in numerous plays throughout high school. Upon graduation, Reckell attended the prestigious Boston Conservatory, where he received a bachelor of fine arts degree in theater with a minor in music and dance. He’s published a self-titled country-rock album with help of his singer/songwriter wife Kelly Moneymaker.

Reckell enjoys practicing yoga, martial arts, swimming, horseback riding and mountain biking. His birthday is May 7
Melissa
Reeves
as Jennifer Horton

After a five year absence, Melissa Reeves triumphantly returns to “Days of our Lives” and the role of Jennifer Horton, one of daytime television's most beloved characters.

Reeves initially dreamed of dancing professionally and commuted into New York City to study dance with Phil Black. She studied theatre at the prestigious Lee Strasberg Institute in Manhattan and soon landed roles in the HBO movie “Somewhere Tomorrow” and the After School Special “The Lakeside High Experiment.” Her first foray into daytime television was on NBC's “Another World.” Landing the role of Jade Perkins on “Santa Barbara” was Reeves's first contract job on a daytime drama.

Reeves relocated to Los Angles and graduated from high school while appearing on “Santa Barbara,” but after only one year on the show, she was released from her contract when the Perkins family was written off the canvass. In September of 1985, one month after leaving “Santa Barbara,” Melissa landed the role of Jennifer Horton on “Days of our Lives,” a role which earned her four Soap Opera Awards and a place amongst television's most beloved heroines.

Reeves met her husband, actor Scott Reeves, when he joined the cast of “Days” in 1988. At the time, they were both involved with other people and there were no romantic sparks. Sometime later, however, Scott invited her to a party and on their first date, it was clearly love at first sight. The couple became engaged one month later and they married on March 23, 1990. In 1999, both the Reeves starred in the made for television film “Half a Dozen Babies,” which told the real story of the Dilley family and their six little blessings.

Scott, who currently stars as Ryan on “The Young and the Restless,” and Melissa recently celebrated their tenth wedding anniversary. They currently reside in the San Fernando Valley with their eight year old daughter, Emily, and their three year old son, Larry. The Reeves have a menagerie of pets which includes two dogs named Grace and Coco.

Reeves, who likes to unwind by quilting, sewing, and painting, is ecstatic to be returning to “Days of our Lives.” She celebrates her birthday on March 14th.

Frances
Reid
as Alice Horton

Frances Reid, one of the original cast members of “Days of Our Lives,” has portrayed revered matriarch Alice Horton since the program’s premiere in November 1965.

An accomplished stage actress, Reid performed on Broadway in “Hamlet,” “Cyrano de Bergerac” and “Twelfth Night.” She also starred with Robert Young in the television movie “Mercy or Murder?”

Reid is a native of Wichita Falls, Kansas. She is a graduate of the Pasadena Playhouse. Her birthday is December 9.

James
Reynolds
as Abe Carver

James Reynolds joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” as the respected police commander Abe Carver in October 1982.

Reynolds has appeared in more than 50 plays and in numerous films. His primetime TV credits include “The Incredible Hulk,” NBC’s “Diff’rent Strokes” and “The Dukes of Hazzard.” He starred as Henry Marshall on the NBC daytime drama “Generations,” earning an Emmy Award nomination as Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

Reynolds, a native of Oskaloosa, Kansas, is a former Marine and a Vietnam veteran. He has also worked as a newspaper arts critic and as a magazine editor.

He enjoys spending time with his family and playing basketball and racquetball. He and his wife, Lisa, live near Los Angeles with their son, Jed. Reynolds’ birthday is August 10.

Lisa
Rinna
as Billie Reed

From daytime bombshell to primetime vixen, Lisa Rinna is no stranger to television audiences. She received national recognition while staring on NBC’s “Days of Our Lives,” as the beautiful yet deplorable Billie Reed, a role she will reprise beginning July 3rd.

Rinna departed “Days of Our Lives” and segued into the primetime spotlight when she portrayed Taylor McBride on Aaron Spelling’s international hit show “Melrose Place.”
Rinna has also starred in the Lifetime movies “Sex, Lies & Obsession” and “Another Woman’s Husband.” Her first feature film role came when she starred opposite Charlie Sheen and Jon Lovitz in “Good Advice.” In addition to her role on “Days of Our Lives” Rinna will simultaneously serve as co-host of the new soap themed lifestyle show “SoapTalk,” on Soapnet.

Consistently being recognized for her keen fashion sense, Rinna has graced the pages of such magazines as “People,” “Entertainment Weekly” and “InStyle.” She has also posed nude and pregnant for “Playboy.”
In 1997, Rinna wed actor Harry Hamlin and the couple currently resides in Los Angeles with their two daughters. Her birthday is July 11th.

Suzanne
Rogers
as Maggie Horton

Suzanne Rogers joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” in July 1973, and six years later won an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Maggie Horton. This past summer, Rogers celebrated her 26th anniversary with “Days.”

Rogers began her career at the age of 17 when she left her hometown of Colonial Heights, Virginia, to join the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. She moved to Los Angeles in 1973.

Rogers dedicates much of her spare time to helping people afflicted with myasthenia gravis, a rare muscle disease with which she was diagnosed in 1984. She is currently in remission and lives a strong and healthy life. Her birthday is July 9.

Kevin
Spirtas
as Craig Wesley

Kevin Spirtas joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” as the resident bad boy doctor Craig Wesley, an ambitious and ruthless surgeon out to land the chief of staff position at University Hospital. “Days” first introduced Spirtas’ character in the summer of 1997 during Mike and Carrie’s “L.A. Adventure.”

Kevin Spirtas is no stranger to the world of daytime drama. Before joining the “Days” cast, he starred as Hollywood agent Tim Burke in the syndicated mini-soap opera, “Valley of the Dolls,” based on Jacqueline Susann’s best-selling novel, and as Tom Gallagher in the late-night series “Rituals.” Spirtas’ feature film credits include the films “Friday the 13th, Part VII,” “Green Plaid Shirt” and “Apt Pupil” (with Sir Ian McKellen and Brad Renfro). Spirtas also starred in Showtime’s “Dark Love” and the television movie “A Match Made in Heaven” (opposite Olympia Dukakis).

In 1996 Spirtas received the Dramalogue Critics Award for his portrayal of Nick Brenner in Chuck Ranberg’s critically acclaimed comedy “End of the World Party” at the Los Angeles Celebration Theater. On Broadway, Spirtas portrayed the roles of Mike Costa in “A Chorus Line” and Warren Sheffield in “Meet Me in St. Louis.”

Spirtas currently is single and lives in Los Angeles. In his spare time, he enjoys jetskiing, snowboarding and a variety of outdoor sports. His birthday is July 29.

Kirsten
Storms
as Belle Black

Kirsten Storms joined the cast of “Days of Our Lives” in 1999 as the character Belle Black, the coveted role of John Black and Marlena Evans’ precocious daughter. This year, Storms won her first “Soap Opera Digest” Award for Outstanding Younger Lead Actress.

Storms has been acting since the age of 5, when she was discovered by a talent scout after a performance at an children’s acting school in Orlando, Florida. Shortly after training in New York and performing Off-Broadway, she was approached by several agents and talent scouts. Storms’ first acting job was a commercial for Galoob Baby Doll. Several more commercial jobs followed for Tyco campaigns, Sea World, Mattel and Toyota. Her first series job was in ABC’s “Second Noah” as the character Hannah Beckett. She has also made appearances on the WB’s “7th Heaven”, Disney shows “Zenon, girl of the 21st Century” and "Zenon the Zequel," and “Sing me a Story With Belle.” She has also appeared on Lifetime’s “Any Day Now” and Hallmark Entertainment’s “The Trojan Horse.”

In her leisure time, Storms enjoys reading (John Grisham is her favorite author), going to the movies, and spending time with family and friends at home in Los Angeles. Storm’s birthday is April 8.

Alison
Sweeney
as Sami Brady

Alison Sweeney has become pretty good at playing bad as proven by her third “Soap Opera Digest” Award in 1999 as Outstanding Villainess for her role as the rebellious and vindictive teenager Sami Brady, which she began in January 1993. She also earned the same honor in 1996 and 1998. In 2001, Sweeney was awarded her first “Soap Opera Digest” Award as a “good girl” in the category of Outstanding Younger Lead Actress.

Sweeney made her picture-perfect television debut in a Kodak commercial at the age of 5. She soon began landing roles on such series as “Brand New Life,” “Family Man,” “I Married Dora,” “Tales From the Darkside,” NBC’s “St. Elsewhere,” “Webster” and “Simon & Simon.” Her feature film credits include Dyan Cannon’s “The End of Innocence and The Price of Life.” She also has appeared in stage productions of “Wedding Band” and “Traveling Lady.”

Sweeney was raised in Los Angeles where she currently resides with her husband, David. In her spare time, she enjoys kickboxing, horseback riding, swimming, water-skiing, alpine skiing, inline skating and playing basketball, volleyball and softball. Aside from acting, she is also interested in other professions within the entertainment industry and hopes to become a TV or film director. Her birthday is September 19

Josh
Taylor
as Roman Brady

Josh Taylor was plucked from working behind the bar at a popular Burbank watering hole across from NBC to be cast in “Days of Our Lives” back in the mid-1970s.

Taylor portrayed the popular, blue-collar Chris Kositchek from 1977-81 and returned in the same role from 1982-87. During this time, he was named “Sexiest Man of the Year” by Afternoon TV and “Best Newcomer of the Year” by a soap opera magazine.

During his second stint on “Days,” Taylor drew double duty while co-starring in NBC’s primetime comedy “Valerie” (which later evolved into “The Hogan Family”). Later, he also starred on “Riker.” His other daytime drama roles include a short stint on “The Guiding Light” and “The Young and the Restless.” His other guest-starring credits include “Beverly Hills 90210,” “Diagnosis: Murder,” “Walker, Texas Ranger,” “Murder, She Wrote,” “Matlock,” “Hotel,” “Semi-Tough” and NBC’s “L.A. Law.” Among his TV movies are “Stand Against Fear,” “Woman On the Ledge,” “Semester at Sea” and “The Secret Life of Kathy McCormick.”

Taylor’s big-screen credits include “Separate Lives,” “Valentine” and “Waltz Across Texas.”

Taylor is a native of Chillichote, Illinois, and received his bachelor of arts degree from Dartmouth University. Taylor also holds a Juris Doctorate in Law. He is married and resides in Burbank.

Alexis
Thorpe
as Cassie

Alexis Thorpe portrays Cassie, a new arrival in Salem who will unlock an earth-shattering secret, on NBC’s number one daytime drama, “Days of our Lives.”

Thorpe made her first foray into acting when a childhood friend dragged her along for moral support during her audition for a local production of “Annie”. After watching her friend audition, she gained the confidence to get up on stage and try it herself. A short while later she earned her first professional role portraying Wendy in the musical “Peter Pan” at the Canyon Lake Theatre.

After high school graduation, an appearance in a workshop production of the musical “Assassins” caught the eye of an agent, who immediately signed the budding actress. Two weeks later, Thorpe received her SAG card playing a model in the movie “The Adventure of Rocky and Bullwinkle,” directed by Des McAnuff. Thorpe also starred in the Sony Pictures release “The Forsaken,” portraying a Vampire named Teddy.

No stranger to daytime television, Thorpe portrayed teen diva Rianna on “The Young and the Restless” for two years. During those two years Thorpe met and fell in love with her fiancée, actor David Lago.

When she isn’t working, Thorpe enjoys rock climbing, golf, shopping, and exploring her new passion, gardening. She resides in Los Angeles with her 2 dogs (a Boxer named Toby and a Maltese named Samson) and her Himalayan cat named Chloe. Born in Newport Beach, California, Alexis is the oldest of four children. She celebrates her birthday on April 19.

Aaron
Van Wagner
as Jason Masters

Daytime newcomer Aaron Jeffrey Van Wagner portrays Jason Masters, the bully of Salem High, on Days of our Lives.

Born and raised in Southern California, Aaron is the son of Tony, a credit card specialist, and Michele, an insurance portfolio manager. Both of his parents are remarried, and Aaron gets along great with both his stepparents; Linda, a Warner Bros. Executive, and Henry, an attorney. Aaron is the oldest of three boys; his brother Alex is nineteen and his youngest brother Brian is thirteen.

Aaron attended St. Francis High School, an all boys Catholic school, which he reflects "was not that fun to attend to say the very least." After graduation, Aaron began modeling and taking acting classes.

He appeared in several commercials and print ads before landing the role of Jason on Days. Aaron first auditioned for the role of Shawn D, which went to Jason Cook, but was called in a month later for the role of Jason. Jason was only supposed to be around for three episodes, but after six months of appearing on a recurring status, Aaron was offered a contract. "I feel very grateful for the opportunity I have been given," states the young actor. "I really enjoy fan events, especially the sporting ones, and I love taking pictures with fans. I am having the best time of my life."

Aaron loves wake-boarding and snowboarding and is a big car fanatic. In his spare time, Aaron likes to hang out with his buddies (which include co-star Jason Cook), play tennis with his dad, and trek to the beach. Aaron is also into hip hop and alternative music. Aaron is most excited by his recent purchase of a 19 ft. Hallett speed boat and is excited to take all of his friends from the show on a water skiing adventure.

Aaron stands 6 feet tall and has blond hair and green eyes. A Virgo, Aaron celebrates his birthday on September 4th.

Valerie
Wildman
as Fay Walker

Valerie Wildman portrays Fay Walker, a woman with a heart of gold despite unfortunate circumstances, on 'Days of our Lives.' 'I have played so many rich and shallow women,' states Wildman, 'that playing Fay Walker, with her humility and compassion, feels like a blessing. I hope Fay will inspire others who are going through hard times.' Valerie was born in Miami Beach, Florida and attended Miami Beach High, where she juggled academics, theatre, and her overwhelming desire to be involved in social services. She graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in psychology and attended graduate school at Sonoma State in Northern California, all the while dreaming of acting and finding a way to combine drama with helping others.

Valerie holds a Master's degree in Counseling and worked as a Peace Corps volunteer in the 'barrios' of the Cartagena mountains in Colombia. Upon arriving in Los Angeles after the Peace Corps, Valerie appeared in numerous films and television series, including Oliver Stone's acclaimed Salvador., In 1995, Valerie won the prestigious Dramalogue Award for her Marilyn Monroe-like portrayal of Helen of Troy in Trojan Women. Before joining the cast of 'Days of our Lives', Valerie wrapped a role in ‘Castaway,’ starring Tom Hanks.

At the end of her Peace Corps tenure, Valerie wanted to expand her theatrical efforts to make a difference by developing film and television projects that 'uplifted the human spirit.' Thus, her production company, Wildwind Productions, was born. Valerie is married and has four step-children 'of every age.' Valerie is now working on her Ph.D. in Child and Adolescent Psychology, with an emphasis in the Expressive Arts. In her practically non-existent spare time, Valerie enjoys meditating, counseling young people, and anything to do with nature. Valerie has blond hair and green eyes. She celebrates her birthday on August 6th.

Eric
Winter
as Rex

Daytime television newcomer Eric Winter portrays Rex, a young man who has traveled a great distance to Salem, on NBC’s number one daytime drama, “Days of our Lives.”

Winter attended UCLA, graduating with a degree in psychology. While in college, and after shedding approximately thirty pounds of football weight, he soon landed an agent and found himself juggling schoolwork and acting workshops with prestigious modeling assignments, many of which took him all over the world. His most high-profile print campaign was for Tommy Hilfiger.

Winter has appeared in numerous national commercials, including campaigns for 7-UP and Mitsubishi. He has also guest-starred in several television shows, including “Profiler,” “The Parkers” and “The Andy Dick Show.”

In his free time, Winter enjoys playing basketball, hiking, snowboarding, and going to the movies. Born in La Mirada, California, he currently resides in Los Angeles. He celebrates his birthday on July 17th.

Arianne
Zuker
as Nicole Walker

Arianne Zuker portrays the feisty vixen Nicole Walker on “Days of Our Lives.” Zuker earned her first “Soap Opera Digest” Award as Outstanding Villainess in 2001.

Zuker, born in Northridge, California, and raised in nearby Chatsworth, began her career as a model at the age of 16, which provided her with several opportunities for travel. Her favorite assignments include print jobs in France, Australia, New York and Japan.

Although “Days of our Lives” is her first daytime credit, Zuker appeared in several national commercials for McDonald’s and Mazda. Her theater roles include that of Babe Borelle in playwright Beth Henley’s “Crimes of the Heart,” Maude in “A Coupl’a White Chicks” and Elaine in Neil Simon’s “Last of the Red Hot Lovers.”

Zuker currently resides in Los Angeles with her four dogs (two she rescued) and her fiancée, co-star Kyle Lowder. Her birthday is June 3.