Gradually, life is returning to normalcy for daytime soap operas. CBS’s The Bold and the Beautiful was the pioneer in bringing actors back to the set.
Among these actors, Tanner Novlan is a newcomer who has taken on a fresh role in the soap opera.
The show recommenced production after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with head writer Brad Bell announcing the introduction of new characters to the storyline.
“We certainly have a plethora of scripts at our disposal now,” he informed Soap Opera Digest back in June. “There are several new characters making their entry.
Naming a character amidst this abundant time leads to hundreds of options.
You start considering, ‘Perhaps this one is better’ or ‘maybe we can link it to this family.’ It’s essentially a wonderful privilege.”
Dr. John “Finn” Finnegan, a potential romantic partner for Steffy Forrester, is one of the two new additions.
The other new character is not entirely fresh, rather it’s a comeback character.
Zende Forrester, formerly played by Rome Flynn, is back in the show with a new actor in the role.
Novlan spoke in detail about his role as Finn in a comprehensive interview with Soaps in Depth.
In this discussion, Novlan shared that although he was cast in March, he couldn’t start shooting until July.
His initial experience on a daytime soap opera, given the safety protocols and circumstances surrounding the pandemic, was certainly intriguing.
“It’s undeniably a unique experience,” he said to the magazine. “However, for me, this is my reality, as I wasn’t part of the show previously. From an actor’s perspective, sure, it’s different.
But honestly, everyone has done a commendable job ensuring safety and following protocols.
You can see from the aired episodes, the drama has been maintained. It’s truly astonishing.”
The Canadian actor also shared his experience working with his main co-actor, Jacqueline MacInnes Wood, who plays Steffy. He had only positive things to say about The Bold and the Beautiful veteran. “Jacqui has been incredibly welcoming and a delight to work with, especially under these conditions. I’m genuinely fortunate to have a co-star like her,” he stated.
Novlan hinted at Finn’s relationship with Steffy. It seems the timing could be just right for Steffy to have a new man in her life. “He’s a helper, it’s in his nature. He’s a doctor,” Novlan said of Finn.
“I think he can’t resist falling for a girl like Steffy. He’s got a huge heart, perhaps too huge. That might sometimes lead him into trouble.
But I think it’s a good thing that Steffy might be ready for a change and he’s a fresh face with a distinct set of values.”