Soap Hub Performer of the Week for B&B: Matthew Atkinson

Matthew Atkinson’s Thomas on The Bold and the Beautiful used to want to do the horizontal mambo with Hope. But, post-brain surgery, he’s now standing by her as a supportive pal. Thomas isn’t as Machiavellian as he once was but that doesn’t mean Atkinson’s not delivering powerful performances. For playing a man who’s turning over a new leaf but still staying strong, Soap Hub bestows Performer of the Week Honors for B&B on Atkinson.

Matthew Atkinson — Performer of the Week

Thomas had worked hard at convincing both the audience and those around him that he wasn’t going to be putting the moves on Hope (Annika Noelle) any longer. The only “designs” Thomas had were the ones he’d sketch for Hope for the Future. Eventually, even Brooke (Katherine Kelly Lang) decided to (slightly) warm to Thomas realizing he was no longer the threat he was.

However, Atkinson showed his character still had plenty of passion after his best friend Vinny (Joe LoCicero) was killed. The Forrester heir was adamant about Vinny’s killer being found and brought to justice. Despite Vinny switching Steffy’s (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) baby’s paternity test results, Thomas wasn’t going to toss his friendship with Vinny aside.

Everything changed after Liam (Scott Clifton) confessed to the police on B&B. Thomas perhaps was no longer interested in disrupting Liam’s life but he was furious that Vinny had lost his. Although Brooke came around (a little) towards Thomas, she immediately grew suspicious that he’d use Liam’s situation to his advantage.

Thomas was all for making peace with Brooke given his past behavior but Atkinson made the strong choice to not back down; Liam killed his best friend and he needs to pay! Thomas doesn’t care that Brooke has a problem with his position on this.

It appeared as if Thomas’ dreams had come true after Liam asked his former (current?) rival for Hope’s affections to look in on her and be there for not only Hope but also their children. If there’s a part of Thomas that’s hoping to make a move by this turn of events, Atkinson’s making the choice to temper that response (which is just what a calculating Thomas might do…hmmm).

Matthew Atkinson is bringing to life what’s on the page — that B&B’s Thomas is indeed a changed man. But will that last now that he’s literally holding Hope is in his arms once more? For now, Atkinson is displaying a charming believability to Thomas so, it’s hard to imagine he may have ulterior motives. Brooke hasn’t let her guard down. Time will tell if she’s right or not. Stay tuned to find out! The Bold and the Beautiful (BB) airs weekdays on CBS. Check your local listings for airtimes.