DAYS OF OUR LIVES Coming Out Party Report

DAYS OF OUR LIVES Coming Out Party Report
by John Carrozza and Doug Prinzivalli

The stars of DAYS OF OUR LIVES were out in Hollywood this week for the Outfest-sponsored "Coming Out Party" to celebrate Will Horton's gay storyline. The night included a clip reel of scene highlights, panel discussion with cast members Deidre Hall, Chandler Massey, Alison Sweeney, Bryan Dattilo, Lauren Koslow, Wally Kurth and Co-Executive Producer Greg Meng. A short reception followed where the stars met with fans, including welovesoaps' West Coast correspondents John Carrozza and Doug Prinzivalli.

The discussion covered the importance of fitting in this groundbreaking storyline into the fabric of the show and most importantly, the impact of Will's coming-out on all of his relationships. Also noted was the overwhelming positive response from the network, sponsors and fans.

As teasers regarding the direction of the story and ongoing reactions from Will's friends and family, Alison offered that Sami will have "a typical Sami reaction - it's all about her and how she leaves Lucas to deal with it", Lauren told us that "it will have a major effect on the Sami/Kate relationship" and that they may "stop trying to destroy each other long enough to help Will" and Greg revealed that "not every character will be comfortable, some will have trouble coming to terms with Will's sexual orientation".

Greg also thinks it's important to not sensationalize the story but rather to tell "the story of a young man coming of age" and keep it focused on "the boy next door who happens to be gay".

Chandler sees it as a privilege to help tell this story and the one most important piece of feedback he got from fans? "Better not screw it up!"

Photos: John Carrozza and Doug Prinzivalli

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