Nathan Fillion Mourns the Loss of Soap Operas: “The Best Training Ground” for Actors
Nathan Fillion, the charismatic star of “The Rookie,” recently reminisced about his formative years on the iconic soap opera “One Life to Live,” where he portrayed Joey Buchanan from 1994 to 1997. During an appearance on “Live with Kelly and Mark,” Fillion humorously claimed, “I’m fond of saying I was the best Joey ever,” a cheeky nod to the numerous actors who took on the role before him. His time on the show, which earned him a Daytime Emmy nomination in 1996, was more than just a gig; it was an invaluable springboard into his illustrious career, which includes notable roles in “Firefly” and “Saving Private Ryan.”
Fillion waxed nostalgic about the wealth of mentorship he received while on the soap, highlighting the significance of the collaborative environment. “I didn’t have anybody in my life who was involved in the entertainment industry in any way, and on One Life to Live, I had 30 mentors,” he revealed, emphasizing the kindness and professionalism of his colleagues. This nurturing atmosphere, he argues, is what made soap operas an exceptional breeding ground for talent.
He specifically credited veteran actor Robert S. Woods for guiding him through pivotal career decisions, recalling, “Bob Woods said, ‘Hey man, you gotta go. Pack up your bags, go to L.A.’” Following Woods’ advice led Fillion directly to Hollywood, where he quickly landed significant roles. As he lamented the decline of soap operas, he stated, “I really am sad that it is a dying medium,” underscoring the intense, fast-paced training that soaps provide, preparing actors for the rigors of the industry.
Other stars, like Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, have similarly echoed Fillion’s sentiments about soaps being an ideal launching pad for budding actors, with Ripa herself getting her start on “All My Children.” The decline of daytime dramas is indeed a loss, as shows like “One Life to Live” have historically provided a unique, hands-on education that can’t easily be replicated in other formats. With the recent trend of streaming platforms dominating the landscape, it’s a bittersweet farewell to a medium that shaped many careers and captivated audiences for decades.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, Variety
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