Soap Spotlight: Better "Days" Ahead

The last time I watched “Days of Our Lives” regularly was during Marlena’s “killing spree.” The story was Head Writer James Reilly at his kooky finest. Salem’s most upstanding citizen was murdering many major characters in creepy and sordid ways. It was brilliant…

Until it was revealed that all of Marlena’s victims were alive and that the whole thing had been Tony DiMera tricking Marlena into thinking she had killed her friends and family. All of the “victims” and Marlena lived for a time in New Salem, which was on Tony’s private island.

It was the stupidest thing I’d ever heard and one of the biggest copouts in the history of daytime. All of the buzz the story had generated for the show went right down the sewer. I stopped watching even before the truth was revealed, since I’d read the twist in a magazine and couldn’t bear to actually see it.

I haven’t watched since, unless you count the atrocious anniversary episode (and I try not to).

But from what I’ve read (and heard), things only got worse. Several old favorites were brought back, but Reilly didn’t seem to know what to do with them. And some of them—like Austin, Carrie, Lucas and Sami—he just sent down the same old path. Melissa Reeves (Jennifer) was so upset by the Frankie/Jennifer/Jack storyline that she asked to be let out of her contract.

Finally, Executive Producer Ken Corday took action and fired Reilly (He remains the head writer of “Passions.”). His replacement is Hogan Sheffer, who won FOUR Emmys as the head writer of “As the World Turns” just a few years ago. I watched “World” a little during his tenure, and I can tell you he’s a good writer—although I’ve never forgiven him for killing Jake McKinnon (my favorite soap character of all time).

Just to make sure I knew what I was talking about, though, I taped Monday’s episode. I was totally confused and I didn’t even recognize some of the characters; but there were definite signs of a turnaround. By getting rid of Austin and Carrie, Sheffer has returned Lucas and Sami to a mature, logical story (although they really should’ve cast a shorter actor to play Will). Bryan Datillo (Lucas) is seriously hot and that E.J.’s not too hard on the eyes either. It was also interesting to see John in a role he’s never been in before—the wise father.

And what was up with everyone wearing a suit? It’s about time John dressed the part of a business tycoon.

Sheffer is known for strong character development and that was evident, even in this uneventful episode. What will really be worth watching is when Sheffer uses his development skills to revive one of Salem’s most storied families—the DiMeras. And yes, that means Stefano (if a deal can be reached).

Sheffer still has some cleanup to do; and more characters to send out the door (Frankie will leave later this month.); but I think there are definitely better “Days” ahead.

Stay tuned…