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Best Breakout Star, Return, Villain and More for 2023

We understand that you are eagerly waiting to find out which soap opera will win the crown for 2023. However, while we prepare for the big reveal, you can check out our top picks for the best hunk, return, villain, breakout star, and soap moments that made 2023 an unforgettable year for soap opera…

Michael Thomas

January 1, 2024

4–6 minutes

End of Year

Best Breakout Star of 2023

Zuleyka Silver – Audra, The Young and the Restless

Zuleyka Silver has been one of the best additions to the cast of The Young and the Restless in recent times. Although she initially joined the cast in 2022, Silver really got her chance to shine this year. She is a captivating character that we’re happy to have on the show. Silver holds her own in scenes with a clear understanding of the assignment where her alter-ego is concerned. She brings the “vixen” feel that is much needed on the soap, and that’s why Silver is our top pick for the breakout soap star of 2023.

NOTE: Tanner Novlan – Finn, was the top pick for 2022.

Best Moments of 2023

Fans of soap operas surely loved the moment when Finn demanded that Liam back off from his wife and even called him “Little Puke”. What makes this scene even more impressive is that it was not even scripted, but Tanner Novlan pulled it off perfectly, making it a classic moment in soap opera history.

Another major highlight for 2023 was Marlena dying in John’s arms on the rooftop. After being poisoned with toxin, Marlena had been in hospital. John Black takes Marlena to the hospital roof and shares an emotional and tender moment is cut short as Marlena dies while leaning on John. The chemistry between the two characters and the incredible acting made this scene truly unforgettable

Trina and Spencer, a popular young super-couple on the long-running daytime drama series, reunited after a brief moment of worrying that Spencer did not make it. In true soap opera fashion, Trina leaped into Spencer’s arms, creating a memorable and must-see moment that will undoubtedly go down in soap history.

These moments will go down in soap history as some of the most emotional and memorable scenes of the year. Moments like these remind us why we love soap operas and keep us coming back for more.

Best return to soaps in new role of 2023

Colleen Zenk and Hayley Erin – Jordan and Claire, Y&R

“The Young and the Restless” had an amazing year and their efforts culminated in the casting of the legendary Colleen Zenk as Aunt Jordan and Hayley Erin as her niece, Claire Grace, also known as Eve Howard Jr. This was the best and most captivating storyline in the soap industry for the year, and “The Young and the Restless” deserves all the accolades for their excellent casting choices.

NOTE: Robert Newman – Ashland Locke, was the top pick in 2022.

Best Return of 2023

Peter Reckell and Kristian Alfonso – Bo and Hope, Days of Our Lives

This year, many soap operas saw the return of several characters. However, Days of Our Lives emerged as the winner in this category by bringing back Peter Reckell and Kristian Alfonso as Bo and Hope. The beloved super couple of Salem made a grand comeback to the show for a short story arc. Unfortunately, the only disappointing part was that their return didn’t turn out as expected. Bo was brought back only to be put into a coma. Fans are now eagerly waiting for the soap to bring this super couple back full-time!

NOTE: This is the second year in a row for Kristian Alfonso and Peter Reckell as the best return.

Best Recurring Star of 2023

Naomi Matsuda – Li Finnegan, The Bold and the Beautiful

Naomi Matsuda is a highly talented actress who deserves to be offered a contract. However, while she continues to appear in the soap opera on a recurring basis, we appreciate every opportunity we have to enjoy her performances on screen. That’s why we are proud to name her the best recurring soap star of 2023.

NOTE: John Aniston – Victor, was the top pick in 2022.

Best Villain of 2023

Aunt Jordan – Colleen Zenk

Aunt Jordan kept everyone on the edge of their seats with her captivating story. Fans tuned in to see what she would do next and it was as if no other story existed. That’s why we’re naming her the best soap villain of 2023.

NOTE: Kimberlin Brown – Sheila Carter was the top pick for 2022.

Best Soap Hunk of 2023: Robert Scott Wilson – Alex, Days of Our Lives

The award for the best soap hunk of 2023 goes to Robert Scott Wilson for his portrayal of Alex Kiriakis. His abs were a highlight this year!

NOTE: Bryton James – Devon, was the top pick in 2022.

Best Recast of 2023: Kate Mansi as Kristina, General Hospital

Kate Mansi smoothly transitioned into the role of Kristina Corinthos, despite taking over from the beloved Lexi Ainsworth. Without a doubt, Mansi performed exceptionally well and didn’t miss a beat. That’s why she deserves to be recognized as the top recast of 2023.

NOTE: Trevor St. John – Tucker was the top pick in 2022.

Overall, 2023 was definitely a standout year for soap opera fans, with unforgettable storylines, talented new cast members, and classic moments that will be remembered for years to come.

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