On Wednesday, November 14, 2012, the world of soaps lost a true legend in Barbara Esensten, who passed at age 75. Esensten co-created “The City” along with her more than 20 year long writing partner James Harmon Brown. The duo worked together on such shows as “Dynasty,” “All My Children,” “Days of our Lives,” “One Life to Live,” “Port Charles” and “Guiding Light.”

In a posting on Esensten’s facebook page, former “Guiding Light” head writer Jill Lorie Hurst said, “I think you know how much I love you and one of the many reasons is how much YOU loved your wonderful family – Mike, the kids, the grandkids – that great house of yours – and your good old partner Jim Brown. You were such a good boss/girlfriend and you always smelled so good. I miss you already.”

Read More >>

John P. Iblis/JPI

(SoapOperaNetwork.com) — While many fans are sure to be mourning the loss of Chad Michael Murray (ex-Lucas Scott) and Hilarie Burton (ex-Peyton Sawyer Scott), “One Tree Hill” is not about to let them go without a fight.

Best known for his roles on MyNetworkTV‘s “Fashion House” and NBC’s “Lipstick Jungle,” Robert Buckley has signed on as a series regular beginning this fall when “Tree Hill” returns for its seventh season on the The CW.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Buckley will be portraying the role of Clayton – “a brash young sports agent who represents Nathan Scott (James Lafferty) and has become a close friend, ally, business partner and advisor to him while also enjoying the spoils that come from being a wealthy, handsome single guy.” Originally, the role of Clayton was meant for Brian Austin Green (ex-David Silver, “Beverly Hills, 90210“), but a deal could not be hashed out with the actor.

It is being reported that the show will once again jump ahead into the future to advance storylines, this time by one year. In addition to his work on “House” and “Jungle,” Buckley has also made guest appearances on “Ghost Whisper” and on the CW’s “Privileged.” In 2008, he starred in “Flirting with Forty” along-side soap vixen Heather Locklear (“Melrose Place” and “Dynasty“).

“One Tree Hill” airs Mondays at 9:00 ET/PT on The CW. Check local listings.