Nelson Aspen Nominated for ICG International Media Award

International entertainment reporter, entertainer and We Love Soaps contributor Nelson Aspen has received his fourth nomination for the International Media Award from the ICG (International Cinematographers Guild) Publicists Guild.

The 56th Annual Publicists Guild Awards take place on February 22, the Friday before the Academy Awards, at the world famous Beverly Hilton (also home of the Golden Globe Awards). The International Media Award "honors an outstanding member of the international press who reports on those areas of show business covered by our membership and whose association with our members lends credits to both Publicists and the entertainment industry." That same month, Aspen will celebrate his 16th Anniversary as the Showbiz Editor for Australia's #1 rated morning show, Sunrise.

"The nomination came as a complete surprise, as I work in such a crowded field of talented international journalists," Aspen said. "It's a huge honor and always a treat to attend the Awards and enjoy some social time with so many friends and colleagues. The reward is in the work, so to be acknowledged with a nomination is itself cause to celebrate." With a nod to another veteran of Daytime Television, he adds with a laugh, "I'm becoming the Susan Lucci of this category. Maybe the fourth time will be a charm!"

Good luck, Nelson. This is your year!

'Search for Tomorrow' Ended 32 Years Ago Today: Cheers to 35 Years

Beloved daytime soap opera Search for Tomorrow ended its 35-year run on December 26, 1986. After more than three decades on CBS, the Procter & Gamble-produced drama moved in NBC in 1982 but failed to draw in viewers on peacock network.

In "A Complete, Concise Yearly History of TV Soap Operas" in 1978 for The Soap Box, John Genovese described attempts by CBS to launch a successful TV soap opera in 1951.

Then on September 3 of that year, CBS jumped on the bandwagon again with two new offerings. The first, The Egg and I, featured Pat Kirkland and Frank Craven in a serial adaptation of Betty's McDonald's book. Egg went rotten on August 1, 1952.

The other serial to make its appearance that day was a Procter & Gamble Production called Search for Tomorrow, created by Roy Winsor and headlining a B-movie starlet named Mary Stuart in the central role of beleaguered housewife Joanne Barron. Need we say that this became the longest-running serial on television, and that the B-movie starlet we mentioned is now Mary, Queen of Soaps?

Nelson Aspen, who played Albert Prange on SFT before becoming a production coordinator, described the final episode in a 2009 article for We Love Soaps.

Original cast member Mary Stuart, as Jo, played a final scene with her longtime costar Larry Haines, as Stu, beneath a Christmas tree. "What is it you're searching for?" he asked. "Tomorrow," she replied with a sad smile. "And I can't wait!" The camera moved away and so did the viewers...a few to its replacement, Capitol, but most gave up the genre altogether. Every time a soap "dies," fans wander farther and farther away from the medium.

The final episode of SFT, taped only two weeks before airing, revolved around the wedding of Jo's daughter, Patty...a character who debuted in Episode 1 and was portrayed by myriad actresses (including Guiding Light's Tina Sloan) over the decades. In the end it was Jacqueline Schultz (ex-Dee, As the World Turns). Only a handful of cast members had been there longer than a couple years, thanks to the desperate writing regimes who'd been butchering the show in ill-fated attempts to salvage the ratings. Besides Mary and Larry, only Marcia McCabe (Sunny) and David Forsyth (Hogan) had any significant tenure. Some of us who worked on the production staff had been there a lot longer. Many, in fact, were crew from the facility's previous occupant, Edge of Night...so they were dealing with pink slips and farewells all over again

"Search for Tomorrow came to us from CBS after 31 years, but the audience didn't come with it," Brian Frons, vice president for daytime programming at NBC, said after the show's cancellation was announced. "We, therefore, had to treat the show as a new one, not one with a long history."

Aspen recently shared the above photo that features him wearing a Search for Tomorrow t-shirt that was gifted by the show's former casting director. Marie Brossard. The shirt includes the show's final logo in the front and "Cheers to 35 Years" on the back.

At successful shows in New York, Los Angeles, Australia, London and more, Aspen included some wonderful special guests including former SFT co-star and friend, Anita Gillette (Wilma Holliday). The busy entertainment personality is taking to his popular interactive cabaret show on the high seas to perform in 2019 as part of Feinsten's/54 Below at Sea series, with concert dates in beautiful destinations around the world. His first cruise will kick off right after the Oscars on Azamara Club Cruises, with stops in Australia.

Check out Nelson's soap scrapbook here.

Watch the final episode of Search for Tomorrow below.

Nelson Aspen Bringing "Just in Time" to Hollywood on June 21

Veteran entertainment personality and author Nelson Aspen returns to Hollywood with his all new cabaret show, "Just in Time," at the showroom at Au Lac, Bar Fedora. One night only, Thursday June 21.

Known to millions of international TV fans as their "One Degree of Separation" from Hollywood's A-list, Aspen returns to the cabaret stage after sold out runs in New York City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and around Australia including the world-famous Sydney Opera House. "Just in Time," featuring musical director Mitchell Kaplan and his band as well as a surprise guest stars, traces Aspen's musical path through various genres as he carved out his unique niche in the showbiz community.

With humor and expert storytelling skills, Aspen shares songs and stories everyone will recognize from their own pop culture experiences. "Just in Time" follows up his popular "Full Circle" show from 2015/16, which included appearances by Anita Gillette, Shelly Burch, Deven Green, Monica Horan, Ilene Kristen and other stage/screen stars. You never know what famous faces might turn up onstage or in the audience when Nelson Aspen performs.

Ilene Kristen Named Special Guest at Nelson Aspen "Just in Time" Show

Nelson Aspen, Ilene Kristen

When Search for Tomorrow alum and veteran entertainment personality and author Nelson Aspen previews his new cabaret show, "Just in Time," at New York City's Don't Tell Mama on Thursday, December 21, he will be joined by a daytime icon special guest: Ryan's Hope and One Life to Live star Ilene Kristen.

Known to millions of international TV fans as their "One Degree of Separation" from Hollywood's A-list, Aspen returns to the cabaret stage after sold out runs in New York City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and around Australia including the world-famous Sydney Opera House. "Just in Time," featuring Musical Director Gerry Dieffenbach and his band, traces Aspen's musical as he carved out his unique niche in the showbiz community.

With humor and expert storytelling skills, Aspen shares songs and stories everyone will recognize from their own pop culture experiences. "Just in Time" follows up his popular "Full Circle" show from 2015/16, which included appearances by Anita Gillette, Shelly Burch, Deven Green, Monica Horan and other stage/screen stars. You never know what famous faces might turn up onstage or in the audience when Nelson Aspen performs.

Asked to describe his eclectic mix of music and merriment, Aspen says, "Imagine going to Studio 54 for a dinner party with Irving Berlin, Julie Andrews, Barbara Eden, Harry Connick Jr and The Captain & Tennille!"

And he ought to know...in addition to his long TV career, he has authored books including "Let's Dish Up A Dinner Party!" "Hollywood Insider: Exposed," "My Prime Time" and "Dinner at Nelson's."

"I used to think I was born 40 years too late," Aspen adds, "but my musical experience has shown me I was actually born...Just in Time!"

Aspen always puts on a fun show, and the addition of the always-entertaining Kristen, makes "Just in Time" even more of a must-see event. Check it out!

"Nelson Aspen: Just in Time" (World Premiere)
Date/Time: Thursday December 21 at 7 p.m.
Location: Don't Tell Mama, 343 West 46 Street (Restaurant Row).
Reservations: Call (212) 757-0788 (after 4 p.m. daily) or reserve online at donttellmamanyc.com ($20 Cover/2 Drink Minimum--Cash Only)

Nelson Aspen Previews 'Just in Time' on December 21 in NYC

Search for Tomorrow alum and veteran entertainment personality and author Nelson Aspen will preview his new cabaret show, "Just in Time," at New York City's Don't Tell Mama on Thursday, December 21 at 7 p.m.

Known to millions of international TV fans as their "One Degree of Separation" from Hollywood's A-list, Aspen returns to the cabaret stage after sold out runs in New York City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and around Australia including the world-famous Sydney Opera House. "Just in Time," featuring Musical Director Gerry Dieffenbach and his band as well as a surprise guest star from the Broadway stage, traces Aspen's musical as he carved out his unique niche in the showbiz community.

With humor and expert storytelling skills, Aspen shares songs and stories everyone will recognize from their own pop culture experiences. "Just in Time" follows up his popular "Full Circle" show from 2015/16, which included appearances by Anita Gillette, Shelly Burch, Deven Green, Monica Horan and other stage/screen stars. You never know what famous faces might turn up onstage or in the audience when Nelson Aspen performs.

Asked to describe his eclectic mix of music and merriment, Aspen says, "Imagine going to Studio 54 for a dinner party with Irving Berlin, Julie Andrews, Barbara Eden, Harry Connick Jr and The Captain & Tennille!"

And he ought to know...in addition to his long TV career, he has authored books including "Let's Dish Up A Dinner Party!" "Hollywood Insider: Exposed," "My Prime Time" and "Dinner at Nelson's."

"I used to think I was born 40 years too late," Aspen adds, "but my musical experience has shown me I was actually born...Just in Time!"

"Nelson Aspen: Just in Time" (World Premiere)
Date/Time: Thursday December 21 at 7 p.m.
Location: Don't Tell Mama, 343 West 46 Street (Restaurant Row).
Reservations: Call (212) 757-0788 (after 4 p.m. daily) or reserve online at donttellmamanyc.com ($20 Cover/2 Drink Minimum--Cash Only)

O. J. Simpson: Soap Opera of the Century

Like millions of others around the world, I was glued to the TV on October 3, 1995, to watch the verdict announced in the O. J. Simpson double murder trial. I'd worked in soaps for so long by then (and had been a fan even longer), I almost didn't mind the preemptions because the true-life "Trial of The Century" eclipsed almost anything Bill Bell or James E. Reilly could put on the air. It even had a surprise ending many never suspected.

For me, however, it was more personal. My cousin, Keith, was the manager at the now infamous Mezzaluna Restaurant in Beverly Hills and dated murder victim Nicole Brown Simpson. A struggling actor at the time, I also worked there as the maitre D' (in another odd soap connection, the bartender was soon-to-be-discovered Laura Leighton: "Sydney" of Melrose Place fame) and spent lots of social time with Keith, Nicole and her kids. Of course, I'd seen O. J. at Mezzaluna on occasion and heard all the "first-hand" stories that have since become the stuff of legend. It all seems like a surreal, and very horrible, dream...but it was a part of my youth just as it is a part of our generation's pop culture, still being exploited in highly rated and well reviewed TV series and documentaries.

This week, O. J. Simpson is going to be back on the small screen for his latest parole hearing [for a different crime of which he was convicted], probably preempting the few remaining daytime soap operas...a genre his trial was credited with irreparably damaging; too many viewers got out of the habit and switched off.

It is ironic that almost a quarter century has elapsed (time flies, friends) and there is still an appetite for O. J. Simpson news. Other convicted criminals, even the celebrity sort, don't get that kind of coverage so maybe it's an opportunity for us to reflect as to WHY people are still so compelled. I have made a career in TV reporting since his first trial and the only answer I can come up with is "Because it's a soap opera."

While I will certainly be curious to know the outcome of his hearing, I'll read about it online and hear about it at work. And when I get home, I intend to catch up on my DVR recordings of Days of our Lives, The Young and the Restless and General Hospital.

EDITOR'S NOTE: O.J. Simpson is set for a parole hearing Thursday, July 20 at 1 p.m. ET, on the remaining counts for which he was convicted in Las Vegas in 2008. According to a number of experts, Simpson has a strong chance of a favorable outcome before the Nevada Board of Parole, which in 2013 paroled him on five counts.

Daytime Emmy Profile: Monica Horan Nominated for Outstanding Guest Star, 'The Bold and the Beautiful'

A memorable guest star spot as a "tacky tourist" turned into a recurring role for funny lady Monica Horan. Best known for her 9 years playing 'Amy' on the smash hit sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond, Monica has become an accidental soap star along with a first Daytime Emmy nominee. She and I have been close friends since meeting in college back in 1981 and will be spending the day of the Awards (April 30) performing together in Philadelphia with my cabaret show, "Full Circle." (Previous Guest Stars for the NYC production included Broadway/soap stars Anita Gillette and Shelly Burch)

Monica and I will actually be onstage at The Rrazz Room at the Prince when the trophies are being handed out in Los Angeles, so I thought I'd give you a chance to get to know my lifelong pal and how she feels about her work in the soap world.

NELSON ASPEN: How did the role on The Bold and the Beautiful come about?
MONICA HORAN: My character, Kieran Cannistra, was named for an actual B&B fan through a contest. I got a call with an offer to do this part and when I read the script, it was hilarious. And I knew there was an offer out to Jim O'Heir from Parks and Recreation to play my husband. It was exactly the kind of comedy I so love to do. Right up my alley. When I got to the set, I met this adorable producer (Mark Pinciotti) who told me it was his idea to cast us because they envisioned the characters as being like the ones we'd played on sitcoms, so why not just cast US!?

NA: What was the experience like of working on a soap? How is it different from other gigs you have done?
MH: For me, it's like being in a rep company. And they're all such pros. You show up, punch in...sparkle...and then, punch out.

NA: How surprised were you by the nomination?
MH: I was very surprised! I got a call from Brad Bell and invited to come to the set the next day with other nominees...it turned out to be the actual day of B&B's 30th Anniversary so it was an extra special celebration. I felt like such a part of the family even though I'd only done 4 episodes. I don't watch the show much, but I do enjoy and appreciate it when I catch it.

NA: How do you intend to celebrate if you win?
MH: I plan to celebrate with you, pal, and the gang in Philly. I'll either be hailed the conquering hero or end up crying in my beers (laughter).

NA: Were soaps a part of your 'growing up?'
MH: My mother was always cleaning the house but she never sat down to watch a soap opera but I definitely did. I loved All My Children and when Carol Burnett went on, I thought it was the greatest. That's how I felt on B&B as if I was following in her footsteps, cause she's my idol! When I moved to Los Angeles, I played Tony Geary's (as Bill Eckhart) secretary, Gina, on several episodes of GH in the 1990s. That was a trip because of course we all watched Luke and Laura get married when we were in college!

NA: Any chance "Kieran" will return again in the future?
MH: There's been talk! I'd like to see her win a contest and go to Forrester Creations and try on some gowns (laughter).
NA: Better yet...at Spectra! Are you listening, Brad Bell!?

If you'd like to join Monica and me for "Full Circle" in Philadelphia, April 30, here is a direct link to purchase tickets:
https://filmadelphia.secure.force.com/ticket/#details_a0S1a00000GGD8HEAX

Monica, a passionate advocate for Arts Education, will also be performing this summer in Philadelphia's Arden Theater Production of "Gypsy."

'Full Circle'...Fully Packed! Philece Sampler, Nancy Lee Grahn, Alex Wyse and More Attend West Coast Premiere!

Nelson Aspen performed for a full house at the West Coast premiere of "Full Circle."

I'm happy to report that the West Coast premiere of my cabaret show, "Full Circle," packed 'em in at Bar Fedora in Downtown Los Angeles last weekend. It's always fun to share my showbiz shenanigans through story and song, but I had an especially love-filled room in this beautiful venue...with a strong connection to my personal history in the soap genre.

While my special guest star, Deven Green, has her own ties to the soap world thanks to her enormously popular "Welcome to My Home" parody videos, a few familiar faces were spotted in the audience and even participated in the performance merry making.

My friend of 30 years, Philece Sampler (Rituals, Days of our Lives, Another World) turned up and joined me for a rendition of the 1980s "Another World" theme song, earning a cheer from the crowd at the suggestion that her character Renee DuMonde (DiMera) make a return to Salem on Days of our Lives.

Nelson Aspen's "Full Circle" Arcs Its Way to LA

My roots in Daytime TV have always been such a source of pride and inspiration that I couldn't help but show them off in my cabaret show, "Full Circle," which got such a (happily!) great response last year, especially from friends and colleagues in the Soap world.

Since "Awards Season" demands my presence in Hollywood for much of January and February, I decided to bring the show along and share the love with my West Coast pals...and anyone else who wants a fun night of song and schmooze in a great venue, Bar Fedora. Friday, February 3 at 8 p.m. Don't be surprised if you happen to notice some familiar faces from Geona City, Salem or Port Charles!

I always think it's fun to share the stage with a guest star (most recently Search for Tomorrow and One Life to Live alums Anita Gillette and Shelly Burch), and for Hollywood I will welcome the insanely talented and glamorous Deven Green, whose rise to cult comedy Queen began with her "Welcome to My Home" parody videos of a certain Daytime Diva! Of course now she's known as a judge on RuPaul's Drag Race, an OCC Makeup fashionista/spokesperson and for viral fame as "America's Best Christian," Mrs. Betty Bowers.

If you're in the LA area, I hope you'll come and join our party next month. Seating is limited! http://www.ticketfly.com/event/1408379

For friends in Philadelphia, I'll see you there April 30 with Everybody Loves Raymond's much loved Monica Horan ("Amy").

Wishing you a healthy and fun 2017!

Nelson Aspen Remembers Larkin Malloy

Nelson Aspen and Larkin Malloy in March 2010.

Like a lot of other kids of my generation, after school TV viewing included Dark Shadows and The Edge of Night. Guiding Light was another longtime favorite, so of course I knew dashing Larkin as Sky Whitney and Kyle Sampson. He was arguably the quintessential leading soap opera leading man...what Fabio did for Romance Novels, Larkin did for '80s daytime drama: creating smart, sexy, swashbucklers that women would love and men would emulate. In later years, he transitioned to being a strong patriarch on All My Children and a hilarious, creepy villain on As the World Turns (Did you know that for many of its final years, he was also the off-screen announcer for ATWT?). With all that going for him, no wonder he was a sought after acting teacher.

But he was also a loyal friend, although I mostly knew him peripherally. We first met on the last episode of Search for Tomorrow, where you can spot a cameo of us together pushing forward in a crowded airport line. For the last day of the 35 year old soap, assorted cast and crew from over the years comprised the "background players" for those scenes. Larkin had worked in the same facility where SFT was shot in his EON days, so he was much loved by everyone from the Producers to the Boom Operators.

Then, through our mutual friends Marcia McCabe and Chris Goutman, I got to know him off-set. Sharing countless meals, especially Thanksgiving dinners, together over the years. He was devoted "Uncle Larkin" to their kids and always one of the most clever, charming and interesting people at the table.

Daytime has lost another great, much loved guy. And so have his friends and family. RIP, Larkin.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Below is the initial part of a "Where Are They Now?" interview Nelson Aspen conducted with Larkin Malloy in March 2010. We will post the interview in its entirety soon.



RELATED:
- Larkin Malloy has passed away
- Nelson Aspen Previews His "Full Circle" Return to Don't Tell Mama

Nelson Aspen Previews His "Full Circle" Return to Don't Tell Mama

Nelson Aspen returns to Don't Tell Mama in October.
Photo Credit: Ryan Brown

Last October, international entertainment reporter Nelson Aspen performed at Don't Tell Mama in New York City for the first time in nearly 30 years, and created a fantastic night of music, comedy and showbiz scoops. He returns to the venue for a new series of shows starting October 7.

We Love Soaps spoke with the Search for Tomorrow alum about his new show, "Full Circle." Read our exclusive interview below to find out what he has planned.

WE LOVE SOAPS: We're just over a week away from the first of your three October shows at Don't Tell Mama. Last year's shows were so much fun. What can fans expect this time around?
NELSON ASPEN: ...even MORE fun! This show started as an afternoon at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival before moving on to be a concert performance at the Sydney Opera House and, then, a cabaret show here in New York City. It has evolved into a being a very tight variety show in the vein of Merv Griffin or Mike Douglas (for those of us old enough to remember them!). It's called "Full Circle" because, thematically, I bring the audience along for my journey from NYC in the 1980s, to Hollywood for more than 2 decades, and back again. All in about 70 minutes! Songs, stand-up, audience interaction and guest stars...there's something for everyone.

WE LOVE SOAPS: What special guests will be making appearances?
NELSON ASPEN: Two Broadway goddesses! Anita Gillette will be joining me October 7 and 14, Shelly Burch on Oct 21. Of course, don't be surprised to see some famous faces in the audience...who might just get pulled up on stage for an impromptu moment in the spotlight. There could be some "Where Are They Now" moments, too. Daytime TV has been such a huge part of my life for so long that its influence is well represented onstage and off. (I have a secret, subtle SFT tribute planned that only die-hard aficionados will notice...ha ha!)

Nelson Aspen Nominated for International Media Award

Nelson Aspen

Longtime We Love Soaps contributor Nelson Aspen has received yet another honor, the latest in a long list of achievements for the international entertainment reporter who started his career working in daytime television. The International Cinematographers Guild (ICG, IATSE Local 600) has announced nominees for the 53rd Annual ICG Publicists Awards Luncheon to be held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Friday, February 26, and Aspen is on the list.

The nominees for the International Media Award are:
• Nelson Aspen, Australia
• Dan Jolin, UK
• Elisabeth Sereda, Austria
• Noel de Souza, India
• Yuko Yoshikawa, Japan

Congratulations, Nelson! Check out our archive of Nelson Aspen features here.

In case you're curious, below are the nominees in the other categories.

EXCLUSIVE: Soap Opera 'Joy' With Diane Ladd and Virginia Madsen

Diane Ladd and Virginia Madsen

As you may know by now, the acclaimed new, Golden Globe nominated film Joy not only has an all-star cast led by Jennifer Lawrence and Robert DeNiro, but prominently features real-life Daytime stars (Maurice Bernard, Susan Lucci, Donna Mills, Laura Wright) in a fictional TV soap opera as part of the storyline. I interviewed the cast for my Australian morning program Sunrise and was happy to find out how devoted some of them were to the real-life soap genre.

Award winning stars Diane Ladd (who once played Kitty Styles on classic soap opera The Secret Storm) and Virginia Madsen play JLaw's grandmother and mother, respectively. And when I brought up the subject of soaps, I was surprised and delighted by their enthusiastic fandom. Here is your exclusive look at this conversation between two great ladies of the silver screen...and their connection to the small one!

Nelson Aspen Thrills at Sold-Out Don't Tell Mama Show, With Special Guest Anita Gillette

Nelson Aspen and Anita Gillette at Don't Tell Mama on October 2, 2015.
Photo courtesy of Nelson Aspen

International entertainment reporter Nelson Aspen performed at Don't Tell Mama in New York City on Friday night for the first time in nearly 30 years. He brought back the music director from his '80s show, Gerry Dieffenbach, and created a fantastic night of music, comedy and showbiz scoops.

From his performances of everything from "Herb the Verb" and "Rhode Island Is Famous For You" to "I'm So Glad We Had This Time Together" and "Love Is All Around" (Theme Song from The Mary Tyler Moore Show), Aspen packed the evening with pop culture references that made the crowd cheer with laughter and joy. The audience absolutely loved singing along to "Three's Company, Too"!

Aspen's special guest was the Tony nominated Anita Gillette (Mona the mistress in Moonstruck, Tina Fey's mother in 30 Rock et al). Three decades after they met working on Search for Tomorrow, Aspen brought Gillette on stage for a story about working with Ethel Merman in "Gypsy" on Broadway, and a showstopping number that proved why she's the best cabaret performer in New York. Note: Gillette will next play Nick Offerman's mother in a Huntington Theatre Company production of "A Confederacy of Dunces" in Boston.

One of the packed room's favorite moments was when Aspen sang "You Take Me Away (to Another World)," with Dieffenbach playing Crystal Gayle to his Gary Morris during the chorus of the Another World theme song. It received extra loud cheers from the large assemblage of former Another World staffers who reunited to attend the show.

Melanie Mitchell In as Guest Star for Nelson Aspen's October 9 NYC Performance

Melanie Mitchell

"Today, the role of Colleen Zenk will be played by Melanie Mitchell." Well, not really, but busy As the World Turns fan favorite Colleen Zenk has had cancel her guest-spot at Nelson Aspen's October 9th Cabaret performance at Don't Tell Mama, and another of Nelson's fab friends will be stepping up to the plate for a star-turn.

Melanie Mitchell, with whom Nelson first worked in early 1980s musical theater (see pic), is a sought after voice over and commercial artist (you see her a thousand times a day celebrating her lower Cholesterol numbers in a Pharmaceutical ad for Crestor!) who has an extensive Off-Broadway and regional theatre resume with starring roles in shows like "Promises Promises," "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas," "Cabaret" and "Bells Are Ringing." Her perfect soprano voice shone in popular 'girl groups' like "The Girls Next Store," "The Secrets" and as one of the original members of "The Taffetas."

Melanie Mitchell and Nelson Aspen

In addition to providing various voices on the animated hit The Simpsons, Melanie was a recurring player in David Letterman's late night comedy troupe and popped up often as a Day Player on As the World Turns and Another World, usually taunting the heroine-of-the-moment. She's much sweeter in person as audiences will discover on October 9.

Nelson's October 2 opening night show with guest star Anita Gillette is now wait-listed and a few seats are left for October 9 and 16, so hurry and make your reservations soon for these performances. Famous faces, exclusive behind the scenes stories, comedy and music are all part of the fun as Nelson reflects on 30 years as a showbiz industry insider.

Zenk, who just finished a hugely successful run as Polly in a Nantucket production of "Other Desert Cities" will continue the role in a new Hudson Stage Company production of the show from October 16-31. Buy tickets for that here.

Karen Jacobsen to Join Nelson Aspen at October 16 Cabaret Show

Karen Jacobsen

Following Anita Gillette and Colleen Zenk, Nelson Aspen rounds out his trio of Cabaret guest stars with acclaimed singer/songwriter Karen Jacobsen, who will pop up in his October 16 performance at Don't Tell Mama.

Aussie born Jacobsen, dubbed "The Dashboard Diva" and "The GPS Girl" is best known to millions of drivers for her anonymous work as the voice of the navigational device "Siri," but wait til you hear her sing! (And, of course, there is a connection to the world of soaps: with her songs having been included on soundtracks to shows like Dawson's Creek and Passions.) Karen, also a sought after motivational speaker, is a popular cabaret singer on the NYC circuit, having recently performed at the Triad Theater.

"I met Karen through my work with Australian Television," Nelson says, "and we hit it off immediately. Much of my show is about the influences of TV and pop culture and she really 'gets' it. In fact, she's a bit of a modern-day Olivia Newton-John!"

To reserve your seats for one of Nelson's upcoming shows at Don't Tell Mama in New York, call (212) 757-0788 (after 4 p.m. daily) or visit donttellmamanyc.com. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. performance. Expect to see some other familiar faces in the audience.

Nelson Aspen Reveals Guest for Second NYC Show: Colleen Zenk

Nelson Aspen and Colleen Zenk

Last week, we told you that showbiz legend Anita Gillette would be joining Nelson Aspen for the first show of his 30th Anniversary NYC Cabaret Engagement, Friday October 2nd. Now we can tell you who will be joining him onstage for the second performance, Friday October 9th: fan favorite Colleen Zenk, three-time Emmy nominee for her 32-year run as Barbara Ryan on As the World Turns.

"Like Anita, Colleen is a tremendous fan and supporter of the cabaret genre in addition to being such a commanding and glamorous performer," Aspen tells We Love Soaps. "These shows are going to be like having audiences over to my place every Friday night for a party. Only I don't have to cook!"

The always busy Zenk is currently starring in Theatre Workshop of Nantucket’s production of "Other Desert Cities," running now until September 19.

To reserve your seats for one of Nelson's upcoming shows at Don't Tell Mama in New York, call (212) 757-0788 (after 4 p.m. daily) or visit donttellmamanyc.com. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. performance. Expect to see some other familiar faces in the audience, too!

The guest for the third show on October 16 on will be announced soon.

RELATED:
- Colleen Zenk Visits @NELSON'S
- Sneak Peek: First Footage from Upcoming Janet Iacobuzio & Nelson Aspen Series Released

Nelson Aspen Reveals Guest for First NYC Show: Anita Gillette

Anita Gillette

Fresh from his one-man show at the iconic Sydney Opera House, Nelson Aspen (ex-Albert, Search for Tomorrow) is returning for three performances (October 2, 9 and 16 at 7 p.m.), accompanied by his original music director, Gerry Dieffenbach. Aspen has promised surprises at all three shows and has now revealed the first guest: Broadway star Anita Gillette ((ex-Franki, The Edge of Night; ex-Wilma, Search for Tomorrow) will join the first show on October 2.

"Anita is a living showbiz legend and I can't wait to have her be a part of my opening night at Don't Tell Mama," Aspen tells We Love Soaps. "She starred in the first Broadway musical I ever saw, 'They're Playing our Song,' and I grew up watching her on Quincy, Password and Match Game. She can do it all! We worked together briefly in the mid '80s on Search for Tomorrow and then she became a bona fide movie star with Moonstruck. We reunited a few years on a Red Carpet for 30 Rock (she played Tina Fey's mother) and became NYC neighbors...truly full circle. Anita's unique talent, energy and charm continue to endear her to audiences of all ages."

To reserve your seats one of Nelson's upcoming shows at Don't Tell Mama in New York, call (212) 757-0788 (after 4 p.m. daily) or visit donttellmamanyc.com.

Currently enjoying his 12th year on Australia's #1 morning show, Sunrise, Aspen is also working on a new series with veteran soap scribe Janet Iacobuzio. Check out a teaser video for the show below, which includes daytime alums Anne Howard, Stephen Schnetzer, Colleen Zenk, Ryan Brown and Anna Holbrook.

Nelson Aspen to Perform at Don't Tell Mama in NYC on October 2, 9 & 16

Nelson Aspen

Thirty years after first performing at New York City's historic Don't Tell Mama cabaret room, Nelson Aspen (ex-Albert, Search for Tomorrow) is returning for three performances (October 2, 9 and 16 at 7 p.m.), accompanied by his original music director, Gerry Dieffenbach. Fresh from his one-man show at the iconic Sydney Opera House, Nelson is thrilled to be making a musical homecoming for Manhattan audiences.

"The show is all about the entertainment and pop culture influences that have shaped both my personal and professional lives," Aspen tells We Love Soaps. "Daytime TV played such an important role in the early years of my career that it is, of course, represented through song and stories. Fans won't be disappointed! There may even be a few famous faces in the audience...or onstage as a surprise guest!"

We Love Soaps will definitely be there so join us!

In addition to songs and comedy, Nelson brings a wealth of showbiz scoops from his long career as an international entertainment editor and author.

Currently enjoying his 12th year on Australia's #1 morning show, Sunrise, Nelson is your "One Degree of Separation" from all things celebrity. His tuneful take on Tinseltown has delighted audiences in Hollywood and all around Australia and now, he's back in NYC for this special engagement.

Don't Tell Mama
343 West 46th Street (between 8th & 9th Avenue)
New York, NY 10036
Seating is Limited!
$15 Cover Charge/2 drink minimum

To reserve your seats one of Nelson's upcoming shows, call (212) 757-0788 (after 4 p.m. daily) or visit donttellmamanyc.com.

Nelson is also working on a new series with veteran soap scribe Janet Iacobuzio. The creative duo recently made their collaboration official by forming their own production company, and the new series is currently being pitched to networks. Check out a teaser video below, which includes a number of familiar faces.

Linda Dano Joins Cast of New Series From Janet Iacobuzio & Nelson Aspen

Nelson Aspen and Janet Iacobuzio celebrate Linda Dano joining their
new series with co-star Anna Holbrook.

News that will surely delight TV fans: much loved Emmy winning actor, author, designer, presenter extraordinaire Linda Dano is joining the all-star cast of Janet Iacobuzio and Nelson Aspen's new series. While mystery continues to shroud the specifics of the project, its creators assure us it will be worth the wait.

"We have the best talent in the business on board," Nelson says. "So we're making sure everything is perfect before we launch. Our cast and their fans deserve nothing less!"

Dano is best known for her 16 and a half year run as Felicia Gallant on NBC daytime drama Another World. Her other soap roles include Rae Cummings on One Life to Live, General Hospital, All MY Children and Port Charles; Cynthia Haines on As the World Turns; Lena Kendall on Guiding Light; and Francine Williams on Desperate Housewives.

For a sneak peek of the new series, check out the teaser below: