The Gates Reveals Filming Date And Characters

Daytime fans everywhere are excited that a new soap opera is finally coming to the small screen in 2025 on CBS called The Gates. The first new soap on a TV network since Passions debuted in 1999, the show concerns a wealthy family called the Jacksons who live in Fairmont Estates, a gated community. Touted as the first African-American-centered soap since Generations, some of the as-yet-uncast characters and their descriptions have previously been released. Now there’s a second wave of characters coming, as well as details about when the show starts taping episodes.

Filming Starts Very Soon

In Atlanta, Georgia, episodes of The Gates will begin filming on November 4, according to TV Insider. The show was created by legendary soap writer and producer Michele Val Jean, who left writing for The Bold and the Beautiful after a 12-year stint. Character names and descriptions that have already been released include Jessica, Betty, Joseph, and Sarah, who all have an eclectic mix of personalities and careers. (Check out the character descriptions in more detail.)

The series primarily takes place in Washington, D.C., and Maryland. Characters range from doctors and lawyers to singers and high school dropouts, among others. TV Insider reported on several other characters that need to have actors attached to them, and they’re just as intriguing as the first batch.

MORE: Find out our dream casting for The Gates.

Who Are The New Players?

First up, there’s a twenty-something Black female named Allison, who is a spoiled rich girl who acts very snobbish. But the teasers hint that she may start to grow as a character. Then there’s Armand, a wealthy Black photographer who gained all his money after his parents died when their plane crashed. He’s described as a philanthropist who’s also a ladies’ man, but he may have an air of mystery about him. 

Next is the reluctant model Cheryl, a Black woman who dreams of creating a high-end brand of affordable clothing and pocketbooks but may have an issue with cocaine. The white Rick is a firefighter with a penchant for danger, much to his boss’ chagrin. He’s been longing for a family and kids, and his goal is to retire as a fireman eventually.

Then there’s David, a Black police officer who may just be the show’s moral compass. He’ll be butting heads with the morally dubious lawyer, Joseph, and if kids are involved in a case, he takes it very personally. Finally, we have the white Katie, who appreciates a good day of hard work. The compassionate young woman always cares for others, which explains her nursing profession.

Well, there you have it! The latest wave of characters was announced for the new soap. Who do you think should portray them? Let us know in the comments below.