Soap Hub Performer of the Week is an ongoing series of articles in which an editor pays tribute to one performer from each show who was outstanding. For Days of our Lives, Martha Madison gave a heartwarming performance as Belle and a heart-to-heart talk with her father, John (Drake Hogestyn), that had us cheering.
Martha Madison Gives Us All The Feels
While every soap fan will tell you that they watch their favorite show for romance and adventure, daytime dramas are also known for giving viewers family moments — that in some cases substitute for that connection that may be missing in one’s real life. So when Belle went to check on her father after he was released from the hospital, the conversation they had hit really hit home.
Madison did a great job of straddling the emotions of her character’s worry, fear, and of course, love that Belle was feeling about both her father’s situation but also about what her daughter Claire (Olivia Durant) was vulnerable to because of Jan Spears (Heather Lindell) being back in town and targeting her for “friendship” that no one believes is genuine.
The chemistry between Martha Madison and Hogestyn has always been genuine and it infuses every one of their scenes with so many layers. While we appreciate that this particular stay in Salem is stretching out, we can’t help but wonder why it isn’t a permanent thing? Especially since the show is obviously invested in her daughter sticking around town.
Belle and Shawn (Brandon Beemer) add to the Salem scene every visit and each time we can’t help but hope their stay turns into a permanent one. What town doesn’t need another lawyer and cop amongst its ranks? Both characters were born onscreen and have relationships galore, especially now that Philip (Jay Kenneth Johnson) is back and ready to cause them trouble.
Here’s hoping there will be plenty more drama for Madison and the others to sink their teeth into — because messy, compelling drama is also why soap fans tune in — so stay tuned! Days of our Lives (DOOL) airs weekdays on NBC. Check your local listings for airtimes.
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