SOAP SCOOP Daytime TV news

GOODBYE TO "PASSIONS" FAVORITES: For years they have been one of the hottest couples on "Passions," but by the end of June, Charity and Miguel will be no more. Both Jesse Metcalfe and Molly Stanton have decided to leave the series, and it's likely that their characters will depart together. At this time, there are no plans to recast either role, which leads to the burning question of who or what will Kay -- Charity's longtime nemesis -- have to focus upon?
MORE ON "PASSIONS": Meanwhile, Leigh Taylor Young will join "Passions" as a mystery woman. She'll be involved with the equally mysterious character played by Richard Steinmetz. Both characters will debut May 14.
Fashion designer Charlie Lapson plays himself on "Passions" on Friday and May 10, arriving in Harmony as Rebecca's friend, just in time for the Founder's Day Dance. Lapson designs clothes and jewelry and hosts his own show on Shop NBC. "Passions" heartthrob Charles Divins (Chad) can be seen on "American Idol" Kimberley Locke's new music video called "Eighth World Wonder."
CHANGES: Sierra is coming back to "Days of Our Lives," and she's got a surprise -- a new man. Mary Beth Evans will resume her role starting May 27. Mandy Bruno will replace Kit Paquin as Marina on "Guiding Light" starting May 12. The role marks the college student's first television appearance. She'll graduate in June. Elizabeth will be missing in action from "GL" until sometime this summer, since Rebecca Herbst has begun maternity leave.
OFF BROADWAY: Kathy Brier has given up her lead role in "Hairspray" on Broadway, which she has played since August, deciding to focus on her Emmy-nominated role of Marcie on "One Life to Live."
& copy;2004 Tribune Media Services Inc.