Beyond The Gates - Daytime Soap Operas- News, polls

Carlivati’s involvement made headlines on November 15 as sites like Michael Fairman TV announced the new soap’s writing staff.

Former General Hospital writer Michele Val Jean is the creator, executive producer, head writer, and showrunner of Beyond the Gates, with Sunset Beach creator Bob Guza Jr. as EP and co-head writer, according to Michael Fairman TV.

Susan Dansby (The Young and the Restless) will be Beyond the Gates’ script editor, and Michael Montgomery (Y&R) will be the continuity producer.

Judy Tate (As the World Turns), Danelle Paige (Days), Jazmen Darnell Brown (Days), Cheryl L. Davis (Days), and Lynn Martin (ATWT) will serve as script writers.

And alongside Carlivati, other breakdown writers include Sara A. Bibel (Y&R), Christopher Dunn (Days), Teresa Zimmerman (Y&R), and The Bay creator Gregori J. Martin.

Commenters on the post chimed in Carlivati joining Beyond the Gates. “Well… if ReRon is involved, that makes this show less of a threat to GH at least,” one wrote.

Another wrote, “This list of writers is impressive to say the least. Yes, Ron and Bob are negatives to this writing team.”

On a Daytime Confidential post about the Beyond the Gates writing staff, other commenters reacted to Carlivati’s hiring.

One commenter rose to Carlivati’s defense, though, saying, “He’s had a pretty illustrious career so far. I’m sure he’s excited to be involved in a brand-new soapie. There aren’t many options for writers in this genre, and not too many know the soap business…”

Carlivati, a veteran of One Life to Live and General Hospital’s writing staffs, served as Days’ head writer from January 2017 to this July, when he was replaced by Paula Cwikly and Jeanne Marie Ford. He told TV Insider at the time of his Days exit that his seven-and-a-half-year tenure as head writer was “one of the great joys of [his] life.”

Beyond the Gates, premiering Monday, February 24, 2025, follows the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family living in an affluent Maryland suburb just outside of Washington, D.C. “Behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. And those who live outside these gates are watching closely,” CBS teases. “Those who have ‘made it’ and those who haven’t are all trying to navigate life… and some with more grace than others.”

Tamara Tunie and Clifton Davis star as Anita and Vernon Dupree, the matriarch and patriarch of the family. Other cast members include Daphnee Duplaix, Karla Mosley, Brandon Claybon, Timon Durrett, Sean Freeman, Marquita Goings, Trisha Mann-Grant, Maurice Johnson, RhonniRose Mantilla, Ambyr Michelle, Colby Muhammad, Arielle Prepetit, Mike Manning, Jibre Hordges, Alex Alegria, Lauren Buglioli, Ben Gavin, and Jen Jacob.

A First Look at Beyond the Gates!

The new soap recently launched its official Instagram and has already shared a first glimpse of the Dupree Family! The video clip features patriarch Vernon Dupree, played by veteran actor Clifton Davis, matriarch Anita Dupree, played by Tamara Tunie (Jessica, As the World Turns), as well as their daughters Nicole Dupree Richardson (Daphnee Duplaix, Rachel, One Life to Live) and Dani Dupree (Karla Mosley, ex-Maya, The Bold & The Beautiful).

“We are the Dupree Family,” Tunie announces. “And we are thrilled to announce the premiere of our new daytime drama, Beyond the Gates” Duplaix adds, “It’s coming to CBS so soon.” Then Mosley cuts in to say, “And, we can’t wait for you to see all the drama unfold.” Finally, Davis tells fans: “Be sure to tune in.”

Beyond the Gates films in Atlanta, GA both on location and in the studio. The Dupree family is one of the wealthy clans living in the private gated community and the small glimpse of their home looks beautiful. Not to mention how great the actors look in full makeup, hair, and wardrobe!

Make sure you mark your calendars for Monday, Feb. 24, so you can get in on all the drama, romance, and excitement from the very first episode of Beyond the Gates!

CBS Daytime Soap ‘Beyond The Gates’ Sets Premiere Date

The series began production in Atlanta, Ga., this month and stars Tamara Tunie, Clifton Davis, Daphnee Duplaix, Karla Mosley, Alex Alegria, Lauren Buglioli, Brandon Claybon, Timon Kyle Durrett, Sean Freeman, Ben Gavin, Marquita Goings, Jibre Hordges, Jen Jacob, Maurice Johnson, Trisha Mann-Grant, Mike Manning, RhonniRose Mantilla, Ambyr Michelle, Colby Muhammad and Arielle Prepetit.

BEYOND THE GATES is set in a leafy Maryland suburb just outside of Washington, D.C., and in one the most affluent African American counties in the United States. Here you’ll find a posh gated community with winding tree-lined streets and luxurious mansions to call home. At the center of this community are the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty. But behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. And those who live outside these gates are watching closely. These are the places where our characters live, love, work and play. Those who have “made it” and those who haven’t are all trying to navigate life … and some with more grace than others.

BEYOND THE GATES is developed and produced by the CBS Studios/NAACP Venture, led by Sheila Ducksworth, in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble. The series is distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution. This marks the first-ever one-hour Black daytime soap and the first daytime drama to premiere since “Passions” in 1999.

Michele Val Jean is the creator, executive producer and showrunner alongside executive producers Sheila Ducksworth, Robert Guza Jr., Julie Carruthers, Leon W. Russell, Derrick Johnson, Kimberly Doebereiner and Anna Saalfeld.

*Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on-demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live, but will have access to on-demand the day after the special airs.

Beyond the Gates Begins Production!

Not only is this the first new daytime drama to premiere in 25 years (the last was NBC’s Passions back in 1999) but Beyond the Gates is also the first hour-long Black daytime soap (Generations was only 30 minutes).

With the main cast and executive producers gathered in front of a large backdrop of the key art for the soap, Val Jean and executive producer Sheila Ducksworth wielded the scissors that cut the big red ribbon and officially marked the start of production. After that, the backdrop opened up to reveal the soundstages although the sets have not yet been revealed.

Before the cast all sat down together for a table read of the very first episode of Beyond the Gates, they came together to sign scripts and pen letters to their future selves that were put into a time capsule and secured in the soap’s stages to be opened one day in the future. (When The Young & The Restless celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, they opened up a time capsule buried back in 1998 at the 25th anniversary!)

Beyond the Gates first announced the casting of three soap stars, Tamara Tunie, Karla Mosley, and Daphnee Duplaix, then shared the 10 actors who were rounding out the core families of the show. Finally, they revealed the final stars of the soap including veteran actor Clifton Davis as the Dupree family patriarch. The soap is slated to premiere in early 2025.

CBS UNVEILS FINAL CAST MEMBERS FOR “BEYOND THE GATES”

Clifton Davis stars as Vernon Dupree, the Dupree family patriarch married to Anita and father to Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson and Dani Dupree. A venerable former senator, Vernon is gentle, humble and generous with his knowledge and experience. Retired now, Vernon was at the forefront of the civil rights movement. Clifton Davis is a veteran actor with a 60-year career that spans television, film, Motown and nine Broadway shows. His most recent recurring roles include the series “Clipped,” “Godfather of Harlem” and MADAM SECRETARY on the Network. Recently on Broadway he played Dr. Dillamond in “Wicked” and originated the role of The Sultan in “Aladdin.” Davis is a Tony Award nominee for “Two Gentlemen of Verona,” a Theatre World Award winner for the Gershwin Review “Do It Again” and a GRAMMY nominee for writing “Never Can Say Good-bye” for The Jackson 5.

Jibre Hordges stars as Jacob Hawthorne, Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne’s husband and a robbery/homicide detective with the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia. Jacob hails from a family of law enforcement. He is proud of his wife, the family he comes from, serving the community and seeking justice for victims. Jibre Hordges’ credits include “Grown-ish,” “9-1-1” and “The Resident.”

Mike Manning stars as Bradley “Smitty” Smith, husband to Congressman Martin Richardson and father to teenagers Tyrell and Samantha. A former political reporter turned househusband, Smitty is a fantastic dad who has guided his children with warmth and good humor. Smitty is thinking of resuming his writing career but is hesitant to tell Martin, who likes their home life the way it is. Mike Manning’s credits include “The Bay,” “Days of Our Lives” and “This Is Us.”

Jen Jacob stars as Ashley Morgan, Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne’s best friend, who is the only child of a young single mother. Ashley was a latchkey kid who has never been afraid of rolling up her sleeves. She is a nurse at Washington D.C.’s Garland Memorial Hospital and has the perfect temperament for her profession – positive, cheerful, brisk, resourceful and independent. She can be serious but is also fun-loving with a smile that lights up a room. Jen Jacob’s credits include “The Union” and “Law & Order: Organized Crime.”

Ben Gavin stars as Derek Baldwin, a devoted firefighter in a relationship with Ashley Morgan and best friend to Jacob Hawthorne. Derek is fearless, holds nothing back and goes into a zone when he fights fire – which is almost personal for him rather than just a professional calling. Incredibly handy, Derek can fix almost anything. Ben Gavin’s credits include “Super 8,” “The Dark Tower,” “My Christmas Love” and “Missing at 17.” His recent roles include the films “A Place Called Home,” “Going for Two” and “Winterset.”

Lauren Buglioli stars as Vanessa McBride, a high-end real estate agency owner who specializes in luxury property and is neighbors with Dani Dupree and best friend to Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson. The mother of twins, Vanessa is in a loveless marriage with her high school sweetheart. Lauren Buglioli’s credits include “Bad Monkey,” “Florida Man” and “A Jazzman’s Blues.”

Alex Alegria stars as Tomas “Tom” Navarro, a handsome and confident young attorney at Bill Hamilton’s law firm. Tomas has an eye for Katherine “Kat” Richardson. Alex Alegria’s credits include CSI and “Gossip Girl.”

They join previously announced cast members including Tamara Tunie, Daphnee Duplaix, Karla Mosley, Brandon Claybon, Timon Kyle Durrett, Sean Freeman, Marquita Goings, Maurice Johnson, Trisha Mann-Grant, RhonniRose Mantilla, Ambyr Michelle, Colby Muhammad and Arielle Prepetit.

BEYOND THE GATES is set in a leafy Maryland suburb just outside of Washington, D.C., and in one the most affluent African American counties in the United States. Here you’ll find a posh gated community with winding tree-lined streets and luxurious mansions to call home. At the center of this community are the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty. But behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. And those that live outside these gates are watching closely. These are the places where our characters live, love, work and play. Those who have “made it” and those who haven’t are all trying to navigate life … and some with more grace than others.

BEYOND THE GATES is developed and produced by the CBS Studios/NAACP Venture, led by Sheila Ducksworth, in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble. This marks the first-ever one-hour Black daytime soap and the first daytime drama to premiere since “Passions” in 1999.

CBS’ New Daytime Soap Opera ‘Beyond the Gates’ Rounds Out Main Cast

Maurice Johnson stars as Ted Richardson, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson’s husband and father to Martin and Katerine “Kat”. Ted is a brilliant plastic surgeon with an ultra-exclusive private practice and women clamor to put their faces and bodies in what they call his blessed hands. Ted has created an impeccable life with his wife – whom he loves passionately – and sleeps well at night, secure that his past will never disrupt his perfect world. Maurice Johnson’s credits include “Chicago Fire,” “Good Girls” and “To Catch a Killer.”

Brandon Claybon stars as Martin Richardson, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson and Ted Richardson’s son and older brother of Katherine “Kat” Richardson. Martin is a congressman who lives outside “the gates” in a Washington, D.C., brownstone with his husband and two adopted children. Following his grandfather’s path into politics, he has ambition to be the first openly gay Black President. Brandon Claybon’s credits include “Grey’s Anatomy,” Tyler Perry’s “Zatima,” and “General Hospital.”

Colby Muhammad stars as Katherine “Kat” Richardson, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson and Ted Richardson’s miracle baby. She is the younger sister of Martin Richardson and lives in her parents’ guest house. Kat’s been indulged all her life, which has made her spoiled, entitled and dismissive of those she considers beneath her. She’s confident and secure and has never doubted herself or her privileged position in the world. She doesn’t like to share but doesn’t know that the day when she is forced to may be fast approaching. Colby Muhammad recently starred in the first national tour of the Broadway hit play “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding.”

Sean Freeman stars as Andre Hamilton, the sophisticated nephew of Ted Richardson. Andre tragically lost his parents in a plane crash and inherited a double fortune, which allows him to live his bliss as a photographer. Nicole and Ted stepped up for Andre when his parents died, and he depends on their support and wise counsel. A playboy who is smooth on the surface, there is something elusive about Andre that occasionally makes people question his intentions. Sean Freeman’s credits include “Finding Happy,” “Tales” and “Boxed In.”

Timon Durrett stars as Bill Hamilton, Dani Dupree’s ex-husband and father to Naomi and Chelsea. Bill is an opportunist, publicity hound and narcissist, according to his ex-wife, Dani. He is a charismatic and calculated criminal defense attorney who is well-connected, well-received and gets what he wants by any means necessary. Timon Durrett’s credits include “Cheaper by the Dozen,” “Queen Sugar” and “Stuck with You.”

Arielle Prepetit stars as Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne, Dani Dupree and Bill Hamilton’s oldest daughter and Chelsea’s older sister. Naomi lives outside “the gates” in Washington, D.C., where she humbly serves as a civil attorney. She’s whip smart and the only one in the Dupree family who inherited her grandmother Anita Dupree’s gift for singing, which bonds them. Arielle Prepetit’s credits include “BMF,” “Found” and “The System.”

RhonniRose Mantilla stars as Chelsea Hamilton, Dani Dupree and Bill Hamilton’s youngest daughter and Naomi’s younger sister. Chelsea is a social media influencer and has been a successful but reluctant high fashion model since she was 18. Her career expertly guided by Dani, Chelsea is charged with recreating the life her mother gave up, which doesn’t fit her own life vision. She has a lot of money, which allows her to follow her dream of designing a line of purses and building her brand. Chelsea indulges in the good things in life, like beautiful people, parties, her new condo in D.C. and the freedom to experiment. RhonniRose Mantilla recently starred in “Harmony the Musical” on Broadway.

Marquita Goings stars as Hayley Lawson, a paralegal at Bill Hamilton’s firm. Hayley is gorgeous, intelligent, charming, witty and the new fiancée of Dani Dupree’s ex-husband, Bill Hamilton. Considered a husband-stealing tramp in Dani’s circle, Hayley is nothing if not confident. With time, patience, charm and effort, she will try to win them over – and if not, so what? Hayley has what matters: Bill. Marquita Goings’ credits include “Woke” and Tyler Perry’s “Zatima.”

Trisha Mann-Grant stars as Dana “Leslie” Thomas, Eva Thomas’ mom and a long-time waitress and bartender. Dana “Leslie” is not wrapped all that tight and intense, but she’s charming and easy out in the world. The only person who sees what’s disturbing about her is her daughter, Eva, and very soon all will see what is unsettling about her, too. Trisha Mann-Grant’s credits include “Family Business” and “A Royal Christmas Surprise.”

Ambyr Michelle stars as Eva Thomas, Dana “Leslie” Thomas’ daughter and Nicole Dupree Richardson’s new assistant, who vibrates with intensity and purpose. Eva is determined to right a grievous wrong done to her mother as soon as the opportunity presents itself. Ambyr Michelle’s credits include “The Runarounds,” “Running Point” and “Snowfall.”

BEYOND THE GATES is set in a leafy Maryland suburb just outside of Washington, D.C., and in one of the most affluent African American counties in the United States. Here you’ll find a posh gated community with winding tree-lined streets and luxurious mansions to call home. At the center of this community are the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty. But behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. And those that live outside these gates are watching closely. These are the places where our characters live, love, work and play. Those who have “made it” and those who haven’t are all trying to navigate life … and some with more grace than others.

Major Casting Announcements for Beyond the Gates!

Duplaix is playing Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson, and her husband, Ted Richardson, will be played by Maurice Johnson. Ted is a skilled plastic surgeon with an exclusive private practice but his past could turn his “perfect” world upside down. The actor’s previous credits include episodes of Chicago Fire and Hawaii Five-0 as well as films like The Skeleton’s Compass and Killer Beat.

Brandon Claybon will be playing the role of Nicole and Ted’s son, Martin Richardson, who lives outside the gates in Washington D.C. with his husband and two adopted children. A politician, he wants to be the first openly gay Black president of the U.S. Claybon has appeared in episodes of series like Grey’s Anatomy, 9-1-1, and S.W.A.T.

Nicole and Ted’s daughter, Katherine “Kat” Richardson, will be played by Colby Muhammad. Spoiled and entitled, Kat will soon find herself forced to finally share. Muhammad previously appeared in the series Doing It Wrong and starred in the first national tour of the hit Broadway play Jaja’s African Hair Braiding.

Moving over to the Hamilton family, Ted’s nephew, Andre Hamilton, is being played by Sean Freeman. After losing his parents in a plane crash, Andre used his sizable inheritance to live comfortably as a photographer. A charming playboy, there’s something going on beneath his cool surface. Freeman has appeared in the television series Boxed In, Tales, and Finding Happy.

Timon Durrett will be starring as Bill Hamilton, ex-husband to Mosley’s Dani, and father to Naomi and Chelsea. This well-connected and charismatic criminal defense attorney will do whatever it takes to achieve his goals. Viewers might recognize Durrett from his role as Davis West on OWN’s Queen Sugar, or appearances in shows like Stuck With You and Samantha Who?.

Bill’s daughter, Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne, will be played by Arielle Prepetit. Naomi doesn’t live in the gated community, and works as a civil attorney in D.C.. She is also close with her grandmother, Anita, played by Tunie. Prepetit’s credits include BMF, Found, and The System.

RhonniRose Mantilla will be playing Naomi’s sister, Chelsea Hamilton, who is a social media influencer and reluctantly following in her mother’s footsteps as a model. Mantilla recently starred on Broadway in Harmony the Musical.

Haley Lawson is a paralegal at Bill’s law firm and his new fiancée. Considered a man-stealing tramp by Dani and her friends, Haley is determined to cement her place and win everyone over. Haley is being played by Marquita Goings, who has appeared in episodes of Woke and Zatima.

Another family in Beyond the Gates is the Thomases. Trisha Mann-Grant will star as Dana “Leslie” Thomas, who works as a waitress and bartender. Though she appears cool and easygoing, she is hiding a disturbing secret. Mann-Grant recently starred as Dominique Leroux in The Family Business and has also appeared in A Royal Christmas Surprise and Because We’re Done.

Dana’s daughter, Eva Thomas, will be played by Ambyr Michelle, who has previously appeared in Snowfall and The Green Couch. Eva is working as Nicole’s new assistant and is determined to get justice for a grievous wrong done to her mother in the past.

Beyond the Gates is scheduled to premiere on CBS in early 2025 and will be the first new daytime soap to premiere since Passions in 1999. It will also be the first-ever one-hour Black daytime drama.

Karla Mosley Opens up About Being Cast on Beyond the Gates

Mosley is remembered by CBS daytime fans for her roles of Guiding Light’s Christina and The Bold & The Beautiful’s Maya and will now be playing Dani Dupree, a former model turned “momager” who gave up her career for love.

“It’s been a minute, but it’s time to get back to it,” Mosley enthused. “My gratitude could not be any deeper to the soap opera icon (and my dear friend), [Beyond the Gates showrunner and headwriter] Michele Val Jean for your vision, courage, and joy in creating this groundbreaking project. The first new soap in over 20 years, y’all!”

Also announced were One Life to Live alum Daphne Duplaix (Rachel) as Dani’s sister, Nicole, and As the World Turns’ Tamara Tunie (Jessica) as their mother, Anita Dupree. Naturally, Mosley is thrilled to be in such talented company. “To Tamara and Daphnee, my heart is just exploding,” the actress shared. “What a gift to be cast opposite both of you.

“To my CBS TV family, I am so proud to be back,” she continued. “To [casting agent] Kim Taylor Coleman, thank you, thank you, thank you. And to Creative Talent Company and Buchwald Talent, thank you for seeing me for so long. Let’s go!!!”

Mosley concluded her post by expressing her gratitude to her husband for his loving support. “Extra shout out to my partner in all things, John, for saying yes to this adventure. Big vision. Big changes. Big rewards. We are blessed.”

FIRST CAST MEMBERS AND NEW TITLE ANNOUNCED FOR THE NEW CBS DAYTIME DRAMA “BEYOND THE GATES”

Tamara Tunie stars as Anita Dupree, matriarch of the family. A famous singer back in the day, Anita worked hard for her success, and raised two daughters with her now-retired senator husband. But underneath her glamorous and refined exterior is a fierceness she gained from her humble beginnings in Chicago. Tamara Tunie is a seasoned daytime star appearing on “As the World Turns” for many years. Also, she originated the role of medical examiner Dr. Melinda Warner with a now landmark 23 seasons on the legendary series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” In addition, she has held recurring roles on shows including BLUE BLOODS, THE GOOD WIFE and ELEMENTARY for the Network.

Daphnee Duplaix stars as Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson, daughter of Anita, and Dani’s sister, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson is a high-achieving and competitive philanthropist and psychiatrist, and exudes warmth, empathy and compassion. Nicole’s success in life extends to her marriage to her surgeon husband. She has the perfect life … from the outside. Daphnee Duplaix boasts an illustrious acting career that has spanned over two decades, most notably earning her an NAACP Award nomination for her outstanding portrayal of Rachel Gannon on “One Life to Live.”

Karla Mosley stars as Dani Dupree, Anita’s other daughter, and a former model turned momager who gave up her career for love. Dani was the Dupree family wild child. Free-spirited, headstrong and uninhibited, she dropped out of school to pursue a high-flying modeling career and she has always marched to the beat of her own drum. Karla Mosley starred as Maya Avant Forrester on THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL, for which she was nominated for an NAACP Image Award. Additional credits include “Guiding Light,” “Gossip Girl,” “Hart of Dixie,” “Deadly Cheer Mom” and “Burn After Reading.”

BEYOND THE GATES is set in a leafy Maryland suburb just outside of Washington D.C., and in one the most affluent African American counties in the United States. Here you’ll find a posh gated community with winding tree-lined streets and luxurious mansions to call home. At the center of this community are the Duprees, a powerful and prestigious multi-generational family that is the very definition of Black royalty. But behind these pristine walls and lush, manicured gardens are juicy secrets and scandals waiting to be uncovered. And those that live outside these gates are watching closely. These are the places where our characters live, love, work and play. Those who have “made it” and those who haven’t are all trying to navigate life … and some with more grace than others.

Michele Val Jean is the creator, executive producer and showrunner alongside executive producers Sheila Ducksworth, Robert Guza Jr., Julie Carruthers, Leon Russell, Derrick Johnson, Kimberly Doebereiner and Anna Saalfeld.

‘The Gates’: Get Scoop on More Characters Coming to New CBS Soap Opera

Here are some more of the people who are going to inhabit the world of The Gates:

“Allison” is described as Black, female and in her mid- to late 20s. She’s the miracle baby that Jessica and Sam never thought they’d have. Not surprisingly, Allison has been indulged all her life. She’s spoiled, as a result. She can be dismissive towards those she considers beneath her. Confident and secure, Allison doesn’t like sharing. However, all that may change in the near future…

“Armand” is a Black male in his mid-30s. He works as a freelance photographer. Tragically, he lost both of his parents in a plane crash about a decade ago and then, he inherited his parents’ fortunes. Armand is philanthropic and is close to his uncle Sam (on his father’s side) and Jessica. They stepped up when his parents passed away, and Armand depends on their support and words of wisdom. Charming, worldly, and sophisticated, Armand loves women. He’s a fabulous dancer. However, there’s something elusive about Armand that makes some question his intentions. (Hmm…)

“Cheryl” is a Black female in her early 20s. She has been a successful fashion model since she was 18 even though she’s been reluctant to work in that field. Cheryl has been tasked with recreating the world that her mother, Sara, gave up. While modeling may not be her desire in life, Cheryl has made a good deal of money. She has a dream to design a line of purses, building her brand in the process, and eventually design a chic but affordable clothing line. Cheryl’s no stranger to coke, which she considers to be the perfect drug. Cheryl, however, can put it down whenever she wants…

“Rick” is a white male in his mid-30s. He grew up down the street from a fire station. Rick’s fascination with the men who work as firemen only grew when one of the men there took Rick under his wing and schooled him. Rick is fearless, but his captain wishes he’d show more caution. Described as “sexy as hell,” Rick should have no problem fulfilling his dreams of being married, having kids, and working till retirement.

“David” is a Black male in his 30s. He comes from a family of law enforcement. David adheres to the vow he made to “serve and protect.” That’s why he’s morally offended when a rogue group of cops and slick lawyers like Joseph step outside the law either legally or ethically. Diligent and detail-oriented, David may get a bit too personally invested in his cases – especially when minors are involved. David’s not only proud of his wife but also of the family he comes from.

“Katie” is described as a white female in her mid-30s. She’s an adult now but Katie was the only child of a young single mother. Katie’s never been afraid of rolling up her sleeves. Her temperament makes her a natural as a caring nurse. She’s brisk and efficient as well as quick on her feet. Katie’s desire to help others is genuine.

Big day for The Gates

Will ‘The Gates’ Feature a Gay Black President? Character Descriptions for CBS’s New Daytime Soap

“Patrick” is described as a Black male in his late 60s-70s. According to a casting description, Patrick is gentle, humble, and generous with his experience and knowledge. Patrick was in the thick of things during the 1960s civil rights movement. He marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King. He kept on marching into an illustrious career as a Senator. Now retired, Patrick is living his best life as he enjoys his golden years in his beautiful home with his wife Betty. However, he’s also hiding a dangerous family secret!

“Elizabeth” is described as a Black female in her mid-30s. Described as gorgeous, intelligent, charming and witty, Elizabeth also holds an air of mystery about her. Elizabeth landed a job as a paralegal and began a love affair with Joseph, who was married at the time to Sara—the woman who suggested her husband hire Elizabeth!

Elizabeth and Joseph are on the verge of being married, but she is considered a “husband-stealing tramp” by women in her social circle. However, she is confident that with time, patience, charm, and effort, she can win these women over. If she fails, Elizabeth still has what she wants—Joseph’s love.

“Marcus” is a congressman who followed in his grandfather’s footsteps in politics. He doesn’t live in the prestigious Fairmont Estates but rather in a brownstone in Washington D.C. Marcus feels it’s important to live in the district he represents. Marcus is married to his husband, Daniel. Seven years ago, they adopted two biological siblings. The married duo met when Daniel was working as a reporter, covering the political beat in D.C. Daniel became a stay-at-home dad to raise their children. Marcus is ambitious; in fact, he has a burning ambition to be the first Black openly gay President.

“Sam” is a brilliant plastic surgeon. He works out of Garland Memorial and also runs an ultra-exclusive private practice that he opened with his long-time friend and fellow plastic surgeon, Lester Fine. Sam has created an impeccable life which includes having an impeccable wife whom he cherishes. They got through a rough patch, but now, Sam sleeps well at night. He’s secure that the past will never disrupt his current perfect world.

“Stacy” is a Black female in her 40s who owns a high-end real estate company that specializes in luxury property. While she has love for her husband, she is not in love with him—and hasn’t been for a long time. Her husband feels the same way. Regular sex ended years ago between these two, but Stacy continues to find her pleasure elsewhere…

“Courtney” is described as a Black female, aged 40s to early 50s, intense, charming, and “not wrapped all that tight.” After her husband’s death, Courtney had a chance encounter that both triggered and re-ignited the anger that had been under the surface all along. Initially, there’s only one person, “Diane” (keep reading to learn about her), who sees what’s disturbing about Courtney.

“Jillian” is described as a Black female in her late 20s who grew up surrounded by unattainable feminine beauty. Sure, Jillian’s pretty but she’s nowhere near “runway ready” like her mother Sara and her sister, Cheryl. Despite being insecure about her looks, Jillian is smart as a whip and she is the only one in her family who has inherited her grandmother Betty’s gift for singing. Jillian and her grandmother have bonded over singing. Jillian’s connection with her grandmother is as precious as her marriage to her policeman husband, David, is. He loves her unconditionally. Like her cousin Marcus, Jillian lives outside The Gates. She resides in Washington D.C. and serves as a humble attorney for the people.

“Diane” has two faces. The one that she shows to the world and one that is reserved for private moments. Described as a Black female in her late 20s, Diane gives off intensity and purpose. At first, she’s a bit of a mystery but it won’t be long before that mystery is revealed. When the time is right, Diane plans on righting a grievous wrong.

“Luis” is a Hispanic/Latino male in his 30s who is a very attractive personal trainer at the Fairmont Estates Country Club…with an eye on one of the married women who lives behind The Gates. Luis can be very charming and likable.

All roles are contract players and must be Atlanta residents. The show is set to commence taping in November.

The Gates Is Coming! Get to Know the Characters and Creative Geniuses

CBS Teams With NuTime Media to Sell Ads for New Soap Opera ‘The Gates’

The Paramount Global-backed network will work with NuTime Media, a Black-owned sales rep to sell national ad opportunities in “The Gates,” a new soap opera aimed primarily at Black audiences. NuTime struck a partnership with CBS in March of 2021 to represent many of CBS Media Ventures shows to advertisers hoping to reach Black audiences.

““We are thrilled to add ‘The Gates’ to our portfolio of products,” said Morris McWilliams, the executive who runs NuTime Media. “A daytime drama of this kind has not been on broadcast television in over 35 years, and we are certain it will fill that void and have positive appeal with African American audiences.”

“Generations,” an NBC soap opera that was first to feature a cast of largely Black actors, launched in 1989, but was canceled in 1991.

“The Gates” centers on a wealthy Black family in a posh, gated community. Michele Val Jean, who has written more than 2,000 episodes of daytime dramas and worked on “The Bold & the Beautiful” and “General Hospital,” will serve as creator, writer and showrunner. Val Jean will also be an executive producer alongside Sheila Ducksworth, Leon Russell, Derrick Johnson and Kimberly Doebereiner.

THE GATES was developed from a content partnership between CBS Studios and the NAACP, led by Sheila Ducksworth, and produced in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble. Over its history, P&G has been involved in the production of soap operas including “As The World Turns” and “The Edge of Night.”

Michele Val Jean Shares an Update on The Gates!

Unfortunately, all that is known about The Gates so far is that it will be a one-hour daytime soap centered around a wealthy black family living in a gated community. Details of storylines, characters, and casting have not yet been revealed as the show is still in development. However, headwriter and co-executive producer Michele Val Jean took to Twitter/X to share a positive update.

“You guys!” she enthused. “The team for The Gates is coming together and it’s [fire emojis]. I couldn’t be happier. Exciting announcements coming soon. Stay tuned!”

Val Jean knows her soaps, and recently attended the 2024 Daytime Emmy Awards as part of The Bold & The Beautiful’s Emmy-nominated writing team. She kicked off her career in daytime back in 1989 as a writer on Generations and has also written for Santa Barbara, General Hospital, and Port Charles. Her work on GH and B&B has earned her seven Daytime Emmy Awards over the years.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting any new information about The Gates, and when Val Jean posted on Twitter/X that May 13 “was a good day,” Ted King replied: “Yes, it was!” King has already appeared on numerous soaps like Loving, The City, GH, One Life To Live, and B&B, so many wondered if he was going to be one of the first cast members of The Gates to be announced. Unfortunately, he burst that particular balloon. “Not The Gates,” King revealed, “but considering a new film.”

There hasn’t been a new daytime drama since Passions debuted on NBC back in 1999, so the enthusiasm from fans at the idea of a new soap coming to CBS Daytime was heartening. “Just wanted to thank everyone who expressed support for The Gates,” Val Jean said. “I can actually feel your encouragement and it’s a beautiful thing.”æ×»^—‰.B”éš.ÿ0Ôõ¸ß.Öe¾)û0ØŸ›ë23A]&ž.=ê2í.ö+›ê2A}%ð/a]f

Is Obba Babatunde Joining The Gates?

@ObbaBabatunde: Tis the season and I am reminded of how 8 years ago today I was recognized for my work on ?@BandB_CBS and I am just as proud today as I was the evening I took this photo #excellence

@ObbaBabatunde: Yes and you were there and now together we have a chance to once again make magic.

Does this mean Obba is joining CBS' The Gates, we'll have to wait for official word.

CBS Orders ‘The Gates’ To Series; Daytime Sudser That Centers On A Black Family To Debut In January

The specific time period and launch date will be announced at a later date, but it seems certain the drama will take over The Talk‘s timeslot.

The Gates follows the lives of a wealthy Black family in a posh, gated community. Michele Val Jean, who has written more than 2,000 episodes of daytime dramas and won multiple Daytime Emmy and WGA Awards for her work on The Bold & The Beautiful and General Hospital, will serve as writer and showrunner.

Val Jean will also be an executive producer alongside Sheila Ducksworth, Leon Russell, Derrick Johnson and Kimberly Doebereiner.

The Gates was developed from the joint venture between CBS Studios and the NAACP. The series will be produced by the CBS Studios/NAACP venture in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble.

On Friday, CBS revealed that it had picked up The Talk for a 15th and final season and will wrap its run in December.

As Deadline first reported, the future of The Talk was cast in doubt in March when CBS announced plans to develop The Gates. The last time a broadcast network developed a daytime drama that centered on a Black family was in 1989, when NBC launched Generations. It lasted until 1991.

CBS TO OPEN “THE GATES” IN JANUARY 2025

CBS today announced the series order for the new daytime drama THE GATES for broadcast on the Network in January 2025. The specific time period, launch date and other series details will be announced at later dates.

THE GATES follows the lives of a wealthy Black family in a posh, gated community. Michele Val Jean, who has written more than 2,000 episodes of daytime dramas and won multiple Daytime Emmy and WGA Awards for her work on THE BOLD & THE BEAUTIFUL and “General Hospital,” will serve as writer and showrunner. Val Jean will also be an executive producer alongside Sheila Ducksworth, Leon Russell, Derrick Johnson and Kimberly Doebereiner.

THE GATES was developed from the joint venture between CBS Studios and the NAACP. The series will be produced by the CBS Studios/NAACP venture in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble.

The CBS Studios production venture and development deal with the NAACP was established to help elevate a diverse range of voices as well as increase the visibility of Black artists on broadcast and streaming platforms in an ever-evolving media landscape.

‘The Talk’ Renewed For 15th And Final Season, Sets December End Date On CBS

“The Talk broke new ground when it launched 14 years ago by returning daytime talk to CBS with a refreshing and award-winning format,” according to a joint statement from Amy Reisenbach, President, CBS Entertainment, and David Stapf, President, CBS Studios. “Throughout the years, it has been a key program on CBS’ top rated daytime lineup as it brought timely, important and entertaining topics and discussions into living rooms around the globe.”

“It goes without saying that hosting and producing a year-round talk show is no easy task, and we express our sincere gratitude to our amazing hosts Akbar Gbajabiamila, Amanda Kloots, Natalie Morales, Jerry O’Connell and Sheryl Underwood, our Executive Producer/Showrunner Rob Crabbe and the hardworking producing team and crew,” the statement continued. “We also want to acknowledge our former show hosts and colleagues who contributed throughout the seasons. We truly appreciate the skill, creativity, and dedication everyone involved brought to the show every day. And of course, we thank the numerous guests who appeared, and the millions of viewers who tuned in daily. For the final season, we plan to celebrate the show and give it the proper sendoff it deserves when it concludes in December 2024.”

No decisions have been made yet about how CBS will fill the daytime time slot after December.

As Deadline first reported, the future of The Talk was cast in doubt in March when CBS announced plans to develop The Gates, a new sudser that would follow the lives of a wealthy Black family in a posh, gated community. The network didn’t reveal where (or when) it would go on the schedule, should it earn a series pickup.

Canceling The Young and the Restless is out of the question since the Bell/Sony drama ranks No. 1 in daytime and just earned a four-season pickup. Same goes for The Bold and the Beautiful, the Bell serial that is the No. 2-ranked soap in daytime and has been renewed through fall of 2025.

Killing Let’s Make a Deal or The Price is Right doesn’t make sense, either, since both game shows have solid ratings, sound budgets, and frequently contribute much-needed specials for CBS primetime.

That led to speculation about the future of The Talk, which remains the lowest-rated show in the CBS daytime lineup. Produced by CBS Studios and now in its 14th season, The Talk recently underwent change by hiring Crabbe, the former executive producer of The Late Late Show with James Corden, to replace longtime EP Kristin Matthews.

Even though Crabbe made much-needed improvements, like extending the first act of the show and injecting more intimate interview segments, The Talk remains down double digits in persons and women 18-49, though it remains the third most-watched talker in daytime behind The View and Live! With Kelly and Mark. And most recently, CBS let go of The Talk‘s current executive, Laurie Seidman, as well one of the show’s PR reps as part of the company’s widespread layoffs.

The Talk, developed by actress and host Sara Gilbert, was first launched in 2010. Like The View, it was filmed in front of a live audience and programmed to air five days a week. The original panel featured Julie Chen Moonves as the chief news reader, along with Gilbert, Sharon Osbourne, Leah Remini and Holly Robinson Peete. Marissa Jaret Winokur also had a turn at The Talk table.

The panel would evolve over the years as some of the originals moved on. Aisha Tyler joined the show in 2011, followed by Eve in 2017 and Carrie Ann Inaba and Marie Osmond in 2019. The two men joined the show in 2021, along with Kloots and Morales.i

George Cheeks, the president and CEO of CBS and chief content officer for news and sports at Paramount+ on new Soap Venture

It’s super real. And just to give you a little bit of the backstory, when we hired Sheila Ducksworth to run the NAACP venture, she and I had multiple meetings talking about what different genres she was going to lean into, and we talked a lot about daytime. One of the things that the data made very clear to both of us is that daytime soap operas over index with Black women, and yet when you look at soap operas, it’s usually sort of a white-led family with supporting characters that reflect more of our society. So we just thought, wouldn’t it be interesting to flip that and make the core anchor family a Black family, and then make the other characters reflect more the broader scope of society?

She found this great writer, Michele Val Jean, who’s been in the soap opera space for 30 years. She came up with a pitch, and we loved it. We brought Procter & Gamble into it as well, because if there were going to be [product] integrations, we could do it more holistically and organically. All of that is to say, we did a lot of work on the front end to put this together. So while yes, it’s development, it’s accelerated development.

When do you think you’d move forward with a formal greenlight then, and how long until it’s on the air?

The actual timeline and when we’re going to do it is still uncertain, because we want to get this right. I mean, there hasn’t been a new soap opera launch since I can’t even begin to tell you when. But we have great success with Bold and the Beautiful and Young and the Restless, and so we think we’re the right folks to be launching a new soap. I wish I could tell you more about exact timing, but we’re so focused on getting it right, and that will dictate when we’re ready to launch it.

It’s been being developed as an hour, but I can’t say for sure. I don’t know yet.

Is CBS Daytime Poised For Shakeup? Soap ‘The Gates’ In Works Raises Questions For Future Of ‘The Talk’

Dubbed The Gates, the serial is from Michele Val Jean, who has written more than 2,000 episodes of daytime dramas and won multiple Daytime Emmys for her work on The Bold & The Beautiful and General Hospital. She will serve as writer and showrunner and will also executive producer alongside CBS Studios NAACP Venture President Sheila Ducksworth, along with Leon Russell, Derrick Johnson and Kimberly Doebereiner.

What CBS didn’t say, however, is how long each episode of the soap would be — though it’s looking to be an hour a day — and where (or when) it would go on the schedule should it earn a series pickup. Dropping The Young and the Restless is out of the question since the Bell/Sony drama ranks No. 1 in daytime and just earned a four-season pickup.

Same goes for The Bold and the Beautiful, the Bell serial that is the No. 2 ranked soap in daytime and has been renewed through fall of 2025.

Killing Let’s Make a Deal or The Price is Right doesn’t make sense, since both game shows have solid ratings, sound budgets, and frequently contribute much-needed specials for CBS primetime.

That leaves The Talk, which remains the lowest-rated show on the CBS daytime lineup. Produced by CBS Studios and now in its 14th season, The Talk recently underwent change by hiring Rob Crabbe, the former executive producer of The Late Late Show with James Corden, to replace longtime EP Kristin Matthews.

Crabbe has already made some much-needed improvements, like extending the first act of the show and injecting more intimate interview segments. But this is only Crabbe’s first season and he needs more time to make his mark. For now, The Talk is still down double digits in persons and women 18-49, though it remains the third most-watched talker in daytime behind The View and Live! With Kelly and Mark.

Most recently, CBS let go of The Talk‘s current executive, Laurie Seidman, as well one of the show’s PR reps as part of the company’s widespread layoffs.

The network has yet to announce a 15th season pickup for The Talk and for now, has no further information about the new soap’s timeline — much less where it would go should it earn that pickup.

The decision by CBS Studios to develop a new soap is the result of a partnership with the NAACP and P&G Studios. If picked up to series, The Gates, which Ducksworth has wanted to do since the NAACP formed the partnership with CBS, would mark the first time since 1989 that a daytime drama revolved around a Black family; the last time was the short-lived Generations on NBC.

There are only four soaps still in existence. Besides CBS’ winning lineup, ABC has General Hospital and Peacock has Days of Our Lives.t

CBS Studios NAACP Venture To Develop New Daytime Drama For CBS Called ‘The Gates’

Dubbed The Gates, the new daytime drama is from Michele Val Jean, who has written more than 2,000 episodes of daytime dramas and won multiple Daytime Emmys for her work on The Bold & The Beautiful and General Hospital. She will serve as writer and showrunner and will also executive producer alongside CBS Studios NAACP Venture President Sheila Ducksworth, along with Leon Russell, Derrick Johnson and Kimberly Doebereiner.

“The Gates will be everything we love about daytime drama, from a new and fresh perspective,” said Ducksworth. “This series will salute an audience that has been traditionally underserved, with the potential to be a groundbreaking moment for broadcast television. With multi-dimensional characters, juicy storylines and Black culture front and center, The Gates will have impactful representation, one of the key touchstones of the venture.”

“I’m excited to develop this project with CBS and P&G, two of the longest and most passionate champions of broadcast and daytime television, and the NAACP, whose enduring commitment to Black voices and artists is both powerful and inspiring,” continued Ducksworth. “I also want to thank CBS’ George Cheeks, NAACP’s Derrick Johnson and P&G’s Marc Pritchard for their personal involvement and support to take our next step forward with The Gates.”

It’s been years since one of the broadcast networks launched a new daytime sudser. There are only three still existence between CBS and ABC — B&B and The Young and the Restless on CBS, and General Hospital on ABC.

CBS continues to rank No. 1 in daytime with its dramas but all three of the soaps are down in the key demos versus last year. Days of Our Lives is now streaming on Peacock — having moved from NBC to the the platform in 2022.

The CBS Studios’ production venture and development deal with the NAACP was established to help elevate a diverse range of voices as well as increase the visibility of Black artists on broadcast and streaming platforms in an ever-evolving media landscape.

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Former ‘Days’ Head Writer Ron Carlivati Joins ‘Beyond the Gates’