If I'm remembering correctly (and I really should look it up - but I don't have the time right now), during negotiations Thinnes stipulated that he would agree to do the show only if he could play Trask. Read into that what you will. But honestly, what actor wouldn't want to play Trask?!
Fill in the blanks: Barnabas - "Quentin, of all people, you must understand that I can't go on much longer without ________ - and so I'm begging you to ________ me!!"