SOAP SCOOP Daytime TV news

A SURPRISE "PASSIONS" RECAST: Since real-life dad Justin Hartley (Fox) is joining spouse Lindsay Hartley (Theresa) to await the arrival of their daughter, "Passions" has temporarily recast both roles. Former Sunset Beach actors Priscilla Garita and Nick Stabile are scheduled to make their first appearances Aug. 30. With both characters extremely popular and in hot storylines, "Passions" can keep the onscreen fires burning until the young parents return in the autumn. Meanwhile, James Hyde (Sam) and wife Sue-Ling are celebrating the arrival of their son, James Moses, born June 28.
NEW CONFLICT: "Young and Restless" has signed film and TV star Michael Nouri to the recurring role of Elliot Hampton, CEO of Chancellor Industries, bringing him into conflict with Jill. Nouri, who received a daytime Emmy nomination when he appeared on "Search for Tomorrow," is currently onscreen in the Tom Hanks film, "The Terminal." He is set to debut Friday.
COMING AND GOING: Josh will be missing in action from "Guiding Light" for a couple of months as actor Robert Newman takes a leave to moonlight. Between Aug. 24 and Sept. 12, Newman will star as Guido in a production of "Nine" in Beverly, Mass. Look for Josh to return in October. Also on "GL," Tom Pelphrey has joined the show as Reva's son Jonathan.
HEY, MATE: Wednesday marks the first appearance of Australian Clive Robertson on "General Hospital" as music executive Simon. His storyline will involve the search for a hot new female rock band and is expected to include a few surprising twists. Soap viewers may remember Robertson for his dual roles as Ben and Derek on "Sunset Beach."
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