As 2025 comes to a close, soap fans everywhere are already looking ahead to what 2026 might bring. With storylines shifting and characters evolving, now feels like the perfect time to talk about the soap stars we’re hoping to see more of in the new year. Here at Soap Opera News, we’ve rounded up five soap characters and actors we’d love to see get more airtime in 2026. Take a look below and make sure to vote in our current poll to let your voice be heard.
Colton Little – Andrew Donovan, Days of Our Lives
Colton Little first popped up on the Peacock miniseries Days of Our Lives: Beyond Salem in 2022, and from the second he appeared, we were hooked.
When he made the jump to the main show in 2023, fans were thrilled, and even though he’s technically still recurring, he’s already been in over 25 episodes. And yet… it still feels like we’re barely scratching the surface.
Colton isn’t just easy on the eyes; he’s got real presence and some serious acting chops that make it feel like he belongs on the canvas. Soaps could definitely use more men like him, and 2026 seems like the perfect time to make the necessary changes. TPTB, if you see this, please up this man to contract status, STAT.
Romy Park – Poppy Nozawa, The Bold and the Beautiful
Romy Park has proven time and time again that she deserves more than limited airtime on The Bold and the Beautiful. Since joining the show in 2023, she has consistently delivered, especially during the heavy material involving Luna’s paternity and the fallout that followed.
Even when the story wasn’t fully centered on her, Park made every scene count. Her performances have been layered, emotional, and compelling, showing just how much she has to offer. An actress of her caliber should be driving stories, not popping in and out.
Beth Maitland – Traci Abbott, The Young and the Restless
Beth Maitland is one of those actors who never fails to remind viewers why she’s a soap legend. Every time Traci Abbott appears on The Young and the Restless, fans immediately want more. Her recent work in the Alan/Martin storyline was a masterclass in acting.
It showed just how powerful she can be when given meaningful material. Beth has depth, warmth, and emotional range, and when she’s given the space to work, she delivers every single time. Traci deserves far more than occasional appearances.
Parry Shen – Brad Cooper, General Hospital
Parry Shen is one of those actors who just make every scene better. Whether it’s funny, emotional, or just plain dramatic, he nails it effortlessly. Over the years on General Hospital, he’s shown he can do it all, even in those very brief appearances.
That’s why fans are dying to see him get bigger storylines and more screen time. With the right material, Shen could totally steal the show, and maybe 2026 is finally the year Brad Cooper gets the spotlight he deserves.
Robert Christopher Riley – Carlton Fitzgerald, Beyond the Gates
Robert Christopher Riley just has this presence as Carlton Fitzgerald that you can’t ignore. From the second he stepped on screen, he grabbed your attention, even as a recurring character. He’s charismatic, talented, and has that classic soap vibe that keeps viewers hooked.
There’s still so much more to explore, like Carlton’s backstory and his connection with Nicole, and it would be a shame not to dive into all of it. Bottom line, we want more Carlton, we want more Robert, and way more time to let this character shine in 2026.
So, which soap character or actor would you love to see get more airtime in 2026? Drop a comment below and let us know.
Photo Credit: CBS/Peacock/ABC.
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