Well, I would never argue with using Brian Sturdivant in a major role...
It's interesting to me when a show creates a big build-up for a character and then the character is around only for a short time, or the writers don't pursue the character's full potential. As was discussed in another thread, Lady Kitty was given a great introduction, but her character was quickly saddled with the umpteenth variation on the Josette theme. Portia Fitzsimmons, from the pre-Barnabas era, was another who vanished quickly after showing real potential.
My favorite example of this was on GUIDING LIGHT. The character Vanessa repeatedly announced the impending arrival of her friend, Blanche Bouvier, prompting a variety of dramatic reactions from the residents of Springfield. Then, on one episode, someone asked Vanessa when Blanche was arriving and she replied, "Oh, she had a change in plans and she's not coming after all." And that was the end of Blanche Bouvier.
I have never come across a particularly detailed behind-the-scenes account of the writing of a soap opera, but I'm sure it must be as dramatic as the scripts themselves!
Regards,
John