Lynda Hirsh on Soaps -- Q&A

Source: Creators.com

Q: It took me awhile, but I have grown very fond of the actress who plays Heather on "Young and Restless." When did she begin her acting career? — Robyn, Point Clear, Ala.

A: Vail Bloom, who plays Paul's daughter, Heather, and the girlfriend of the very confused Adam, has just gone from contract to recurring. Bloom, who has a degree in architecture from Princeton University, admits she is a latecomer to acting. "I was interested in acting, but I never really thought about it as a full-time career. My parents knew I had flirted with acting. They were insistent that I get a degree in a career that was not as risky. While I was in college and working toward my degree, I did get to do a lot of theater. When I made my choice to pursue acting full time, my parents were very supportive."

Q: How is Frank Dicopoulos dealing with the cancellation of "Guiding Light?" — Rene, Pittsburgh

A: He is crushed. Having been with show for almost 24 years, he really thought he would be with the show forever. The actor told us: "Even when other acting offers were on the horizon, I always chose to stay with 'Guiding Light.' I come from a working-class family. It was important that I stay in one place with my wife and children. The show has given me that chance throughout the years.

Because of 'Guiding Light,' I was able to be involved with a variety of charities. Through the years, the show listened to my ideas and used them in the show. Not all of them — some of my ideas weren't very good. One of my ideas was great. I suggested that Frank's dad come back from the dead. I felt it was important for the character to connect with his dad. So Buzz was created. To add to the luck, Justin Deas was cast to play my dad. What an honor and what fun to work with him all these years." Until the very end, he did think the show would survive in one form or the other. "Yes, there were times that the show lost its way. In the last year, it was back to where it belonged. I know some of the stories they had for the future. It is a shame the viewers are not going to get to see them."

Q: I am going crazy. Where have I seen the actor who is playing Mason on "As the World Turns"? — Janet, Toronto

A: Forbes March played Scott on "All My Children" several years back. He also played the tragic Nash on "One Life to Live." Nash, the one-time love of Jessica's life, died while having an argument with Jared. His current character, Mason, may create trouble for Noah and Luke. It appears that Mason, who is Noah's college adviser, plans to give his protege advice in his private life.