The Days of our Lives Effect
ENTERTAINMENT

The Days of our Lives Effect

We shot the Days of our Lives pictorial on a very rainy February 19th. It was a closed set and we kept a tight lid on it. On the following day, we got an e-mail from DOOL’s publicist alerting us to the news leak: “I shockingly got an inquiry from a soap magazine (…) Although we’ve mitigated the damage for now, maybe we should consider a tease or sneak peek of some sort? Get ahead of the narrative vs. having to respond to ‘rumors’?” And so, ahead we got and tweeted a backstage pic on the 21st: “Cooking up something EPIC with photographer Katie Levine, @MrRobertScott and the #hunks of #daysofourlives. Coming this spring.” An article on SoapHub made it official.

BTS: Katie Levine and Rob Wilson.

Fast-forward to the spring: the covers (each featuring one of the 5 actors) debuted here on April 9th and were widely circulated by People, USWeekly, TheSun, Instinct, JustJared and many other publications. Entertainment Tonight dedicated to them not one but two TV segments –we couldn’t be happier. But the most insightful comments, to date, and the most on point, are YouTuber’s @HollyJonas (Fan Voice for DOOL): “A provocative photoshoot for Playgirl, a project that not only showcases the undeniable allure of the actors but also honors their unique physical characteristics in a way seldom seen in the world of serial television. This bold venture features five prominent characters from Days of our Lives who have daringly stripped down (…) These images, showcasing the actors in minimal attire –either underwear or scantily clad shorts– boldly reveal an aspect of them rarely acknowledged in public discourse. The daring poses and intimate nature of the photos invite viewers to look beyond the usual image of soap opera stars, offering a genuine and authentic view of the real people behind Salem’s beloved characters (…) This photoshoot not only celebrates the actors’ physiques but also highlights their adventurous spirit, willingness to challenge social norms and dedication to their craft and fans.”

Holly’s title may be classic clickbait: “Shocking interview for Playgirl magazine.” But she gets what Playgirl’s Creative Director, Mickey Boardman, and the cast of Days of our Lives set out to do –and achieved– with this “provocative photoshoot.” Something “bold,” yet hardly “shocking” –it wouldn’t be Playgirl otherwise. Something “authentic.” And, no less important, something PLAYful: something for Robert Scott Wilson, Eric Martsolf, Bryan Dattilo, Christopher Sean and Paul Telfer to have fun with. We’re grateful to each and all of them for delivering the goods and to Peacock for being game; we know you are too.