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Soaps In Depth

Soaps In Depth is an dedicated to operas, launched in 1997 as a series of biweekly print publications with separate editions focusing on the , , and networks. Each edition offered tailored content including exclusive interviews, story previews, cast news, photo features, and behind-the-scenes insights for fans of specific network shows such as , , and . Published by , the magazine quickly became a staple for enthusiasts due to its detailed coverage and network-specific approach, distinguishing it from more general publications. Following the challenges of the , Soaps In Depth ceased its print editions in April 2020 after a 23-year run, shifting entirely to on SoapsInDepth.com. The online platform continued to deliver updates, spoilers, and features until May 2025, when it announced a merger with , integrating its content and writers into the latter's established website at SoapOperaDigest.com. This merger reflects broader industry trends toward digital media amid declining print circulation for niche magazines.

History

Founding and Launch

Soaps In Depth was founded by Bauer Publications in 1997 as a biweekly print dedicated to providing detailed coverage of . The publication was created to offer soap opera enthusiasts a specialized resource amid a growing market for entertainment , emphasizing comprehensive insights into ongoing storylines and industry developments. The initial concept centered on producing separate editions tailored to the major broadcast networks, allowing for network-specific content that catered directly to fans of shows airing on , , and . This approach included ABC Soaps In Depth, CBS Soaps In Depth, and NBC Soaps In Depth, each focusing on the respective network's lineup of dramas such as , , and . The magazines aimed to deliver exclusive performer interviews, news, and previews of upcoming plot twists, setting them apart from more general soap publications. The first issues debuted in early 1997, marking the launch of what would become a staple for audiences seeking in-depth, targeted reporting. Early reception highlighted the innovative format of the network-specific editions, which resonated with dedicated viewers by offering personalized content that deepened engagement with their favorite series. The biweekly schedule ensured regular updates aligned with the fast-paced nature of narratives.

Evolution of Editions

Following its launch in 1997 with separate editions dedicated to ABC, CBS, and soaps, Soaps In Depth underwent significant adjustments to its structure amid the soap opera genre's challenges. The most notable early change occurred in December 1999, when the Soaps In Depth edition was discontinued due to plummeting circulation following 's cancellations of Another World in March 1999 and Sunset Beach in December 1998, leaving only and on the network's daytime lineup. Coverage of these remaining shows was subsequently integrated into the ABC and CBS editions to maintain comprehensive reporting on all major daytime dramas while streamlining operations. Throughout the 2000s, as overall viewership declined sharply—dropping from an average of over 10 million daily viewers in the late 1990s to around 3 million by the decade's end—the magazine adapted by enhancing content depth in its surviving ABC and CBS editions, which remained biweekly publications focused on network-specific soaps. This period saw intensified coverage of enduring flagships like ABC's , which expanded its storylines to incorporate and adventure elements post-cancellations of in 2003 and others, allowing the edition to emphasize serialized narratives and cast interviews amid industry contraction. Similarly, the CBS edition deepened its focus on , highlighting family dynasty arcs and social issue storylines as the show navigated the loss of sister soap in 2010 and broader genre shifts. By the 2010s, further consolidations in prompted Soaps In Depth to introduce cross-network elements, such as occasional multi-show features and shared editorial insights, while preserving the core network-focused format of its two editions. The edition, for instance, pivoted heavily toward after the 2011 cancellations of and One Life to Live, amplifying coverage of its evolving plots involving romance, mystery, and ensemble dynamics to sustain reader engagement. On the side, the edition bolstered reporting on and , incorporating comparative analyses of their contrasting styles—Genoa City intrigue versus glamour—as viewership stabilized around 4-5 million daily amid ongoing genre pressures. These adaptations reflected the magazine's efforts to navigate a landscape reduced from over a dozen soaps in 1999 to just four broadcast titles by mid-decade. On April 23, 2020, Dawn Owens announced that the print editions of Soaps In Depth and Soaps In Depth would cease publication after 23 years, attributing the decision to the economic fallout from the . The announcement emphasized the challenges faced by the print magazine industry amid widespread disruptions, leading , the then-owner, to pivot away from physical distribution. The final print issues, dated May 4, 2020, hit newsstands the week of April 27 for and May 11 for , marking the end of a biweekly publication cycle that had been a staple for enthusiasts since 1997. This closure affected the dedicated network-specific editions, which had previously expanded to include before its discontinuation in 1999. Following the print shutdown, Soaps In Depth transitioned fully to its digital platform at SoapsInDepth.com, where it continued delivering biweekly content including articles, episode recaps, and exclusive interviews. In January 2022, acquired Bauer Media Group's U.S. publishing portfolio, including Soaps In Depth, facilitating the brand's ongoing digital operations under new ownership. In 2024, merged with Company, further integrating its operations. The shift prioritized web-based features, such as enhanced engagement and elements, to sustain audience interaction in an increasingly online landscape. This adaptation allowed the to maintain its focus on comprehensive coverage without the constraints of print production.

Merger with Soap Opera Digest

On May 29, 2025, A360 Media announced the merger of into , integrating the former's digital content and writers into the latter's platform to consolidate coverage under a single outlet. The merger aimed to streamline operations in response to declining audiences and the need for cost efficiencies, following challenges from the 2020 shift to digital-only publishing and subsequent industry layoffs amid magazine closures in 2025. Following the merger, the SoapsInDepth.com domain was redirected to SoapOperaDigest.com, ending Soaps In Depth's standalone digital presence, while key writers such as Chris Eades and Michelle Parkerton transitioned to the staff to continue producing content. Legacy articles from Soaps In Depth were retained and made accessible via the unified platform. For fans, the integration provided unified coverage of all major daytime soaps in one digital destination, preserving the familiar style and expertise, with planning to release special print issues quarterly to maintain some tangible engagement.

Editions

ABC Soaps In Depth

ABC Soaps In Depth was a biweekly magazine dedicated to providing in-depth coverage of ABC's daytime soap operas, primarily focusing on , (until its cancellation in 2012), and (until its conclusion in 2011). The publication offered detailed story previews, episode recaps, and exclusive interviews with cast members, emphasizing the dramatic arcs and character developments unique to these series. Launched in 1997, it catered specifically to fans of ABC's lineup, which at the time also included until its end in 2003. The magazine maintained a consistent biweekly schedule from its inception through May 2020, spanning a 23-year run. Among the network-specific editions, the version achieved the highest circulation, with figures reaching 268,065 copies for the period ending September 2000 and remaining above 79,000 subscribers as late as 2006. Distinct features of the edition included specialized columns recapping major events from storylines, such as its supernatural arcs during the late and early , alongside targeted coverage of Daytime Emmy nominations and wins for ABC performers and productions. These elements highlighted the edition's role in celebrating ABC's contributions to , often incorporating fan-favorite segments like cast Q&As tied to award seasons. After the print edition concluded in May 2020, ABC-focused content shifted to the digital platform SoapsInDepth.com, where it provided ongoing previews, news, and interviews until the site's merger with in May 2025. This transition preserved access to the edition's signature style amid the evolving media landscape for enthusiasts.

CBS Soaps In Depth

CBS Soaps In Depth was a biweekly magazine edition dedicated exclusively to the airing on , providing in-depth coverage, previews, interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights tailored to fans of the network's dramas. Launched in early as part of the Soaps In Depth series, it focused primarily on long-running series such as and , while also featuring detailed analysis of until its cancellation in 2010 and until its end in 2009. The publication maintained strong readership throughout the 2000s, bolstered by the enduring popularity of CBS's soap franchises, reflecting its appeal among dedicated viewers. Signature elements included exclusive interviews with iconic actors, such as , who portrayed on for over four decades, often exploring character arcs and personal milestones. Additionally, the magazine offered behind-the-scenes looks at key storylines, like intricate plots unfolding in Genoa City, the fictional setting central to , enhancing fans' engagement with ongoing narratives. Print publication of CBS Soaps In Depth continued biweekly until its final issue, dated April 27 to May 11, 2020, after which the edition shifted to a digital-only format on SoapsInDepth.com, sustaining focused coverage of CBS soaps through online articles and updates. This digital transition allowed the magazine to adapt to changing media consumption habits while maintaining its commitment to CBS-specific content, including actor profiles and plot spoilers, until the brand's merger with in May 2025.

NBC Soaps In Depth

NBC Soaps In Depth was launched in 1997 as part of the initial rollout of the Soaps In Depth magazine series, which featured separate editions tailored to the daytime soap operas airing on , , and . This edition specifically focused on 's lineup, providing in-depth coverage of Another World, , and Sunset Beach. The magazine offered features such as actor interviews, storyline recaps, and behind-the-scenes insights centered on these series, with a particular emphasis on the ongoing narratives in ' fictional town of Salem during its early issues. In mid-1999, NBC introduced Passions, a supernatural-tinged that debuted on July 5, allowing the magazine to incorporate exclusive launch coverage and early episode breakdowns in its final months of publication. However, the edition's lifespan was short-lived, as it was discontinued in December 1999 following NBC's cancellations of Another World in March and Sunset Beach in December of that year, reducing the network's soap offerings to just and the newly launched Passions. This shift prompted the absorption of remaining NBC soap content into the ABC and CBS editions of Soaps In Depth. The NBC edition stood out for its network-specific format but struggled compared to its counterparts, ultimately ceasing after less than three years due to the diminishing scope of 's daytime drama slate.

Content and Features

Recurring Articles

Soaps In Depth magazines featured a core set of recurring columns that provided consistent updates and engagement for readers across all network editions, focusing on off-screen developments and insights applicable to multiple shows. The "News" section delivered timely reports on significant happenings, such as announcements and updates, often spanning stories from various soaps within the edition's network. Similarly, the "Ins and Outs" column tracked cast changes, including arrivals, departures, and role recastings, offering readers a quick overview of shifts in the ensembles that could impact ongoing narratives. Previews and recaps formed another staple, with "Set Your DVR" highlighting must-watch episodes and key plot developments over the upcoming two weeks, helping fans prioritize viewing amid busy schedules. Weekly recaps summarized major storyline progressions for each covered soap, such as detailed breakdowns of arcs in or in the CBS edition, ensuring accessibility for viewers who missed episodes. Interactive elements included fan polls, where readers voted on topics like favorite couples or plot twists, fostering involvement and reflecting audience sentiments on current events. Regular interview formats, such as in-depth profiles with performers, explored career milestones, personal anecdotes, and insights into their characters, often under sections like "Up-Close Personal" that humanized soap stars. These recurring articles remained a reliable framework throughout the magazine's print run from its 1997 launch to the 2020 cessation, offering structural consistency despite evolving storylines and cast dynamics across the networks. While adapted slightly for show-specific contexts in network editions, the columns maintained a cross-soap focus to appeal broadly to dedicated fans.

Rotating and Special Articles

Soaps In Depth incorporated rotating features that varied across issues to provide fresh perspectives on culture, including alternate monthly articles focused on cast fashion trends and health topics linked to ongoing storylines. Holiday-themed content, such as recaps of episodes, appeared seasonally to engage readers with festive plot highlights. Special editions formed a key part of the magazine's output, with annual previews and recaps of the offering in-depth analysis of nominations, winners, and behind-the-scenes insights starting from the publication's early years. Year-end "Best of" roundups, which highlighted top storylines, performances, and soaps of the year, were published annually from 1997 onward, often naming standout shows like as the best in 2012. Event-driven pieces addressed significant industry developments, such as extensive coverage of the ABC soap cancellations of and One Life to Live, including interviews and fan reactions in subsequent issues. Milestones like the 50th anniversary of in 2013 were commemorated with dedicated features revisiting classic moments and cast reflections. Following the cessation of print in 2020, digital expansions emphasized online-only specials, including virtual cast reunions and pandemic-era event coverage, which continued through 2025 until the merger with . These adaptations allowed for timely, interactive content like live Emmy updates and anniversary tributes accessible via the website.

Show-Specific Coverage

Soaps In Depth structured its issues around dedicated sections for each within its network-specific editions, allocating substantial space to plot spoilers, in-depth character and actor analyses, and extensive photo spreads that highlighted key story developments and cast members. These elements allowed readers to delve into upcoming episodes and behind-the-scenes insights tailored to individual shows, such as detailed previews of dramatic arcs on ABC's or CBS's . Content was customized to the unique elements of each network's lineup, with NBC editions featuring Salem-centric spoilers for that teased twists in the town's intricate family rivalries, while CBS versions included visual family trees mapping the complex lineages of Genoa City's residents on . This approach ensured relevance to fans of specific series, emphasizing ongoing narratives like disputes or entanglements without overlapping with general news columns. Following the cancellations of shows like in 2009 and in 2010, the magazine evolved by intensifying coverage of the remaining soaps, such as expanding analyses and photo features for to maintain reader engagement amid a shrinking daytime landscape. This adaptation preserved the publication's depth while reflecting the genre's contractions. Interactive elements further personalized the show-specific sections, incorporating fan letters that responded to current plotlines and "What Would You Do?" scenarios prompting readers to imagine alternatives in ongoing arcs, such as survival dilemmas or relationship choices faced by characters. These features fostered community involvement, often tying directly to episode previews in the respective soap's pages.

Publisher and Operations

Ownership Changes

Soaps In Depth was founded in 1997 by Bauer Publications, a subsidiary of the German-based , which handled its initial launch as a series of biweekly magazines dedicated to soap operas on , , and . Under Bauer's ownership, the publication expanded its and early digital presence, focusing on in-depth coverage of daytime dramas through the early 2010s. Bauer Media Group retained control of Soaps In Depth until 2022, during which time the magazine faced industry challenges, including the cessation of its print editions in April 2020 amid the pandemic's impact on publishing. This shift to digital-only operations occurred while still under Bauer, allowing the brand to continue online content production and distribution. In January 2022, Bauer Media Group sold its remaining U.S. publishing assets, including Soaps In Depth, to as part of a broader divestiture strategy to streamline international operations. , formed in 2020 from the merger of American Media, Inc. and Accelerate360, assumed management of the brand's digital , overseeing updates, website , and through 2025. The ownership transition culminated in May 2025, when merged Soaps In Depth with its fellow publication, , integrating the brands under a unified digital platform to consolidate resources in the evolving media landscape. This internal merger marked the end of Soaps In Depth as a standalone entity while preserving its content archives and contributor expertise within 's portfolio.

Editorial Team and Production

The production model for Soaps In Depth's print editions emphasized high-quality photography, exclusive actor access, and timely reporting on plot developments, with biweekly issues alternating between networks. Circulation peaked in the early , reflecting the genre's popularity, before declining amid broader shifts in . Launched with editions for , , and , the NBC edition was discontinued in December 1999 following the cancellation of Another World and Sunset Beach, after which production focused on alternating and editions. In April 2020, amid the and falling print advertising revenue, Bauer Media announced the cessation of all print editions, with the final and issues dated May 4, 2020, marking the end of a 23-year run for the physical magazine. Production transitioned fully to via SoapsInDepth.com, where the biweekly rhythm evolved into ongoing updates, including daily , photo galleries, and interactive features, supported by a smaller team focused on web optimization and social media engagement. This shift allowed continued operations under Bauer until the 2022 sale to and through May 2025, when Soaps In Depth merged with ; the integration combined digital platforms, with Soaps In Depth's content archive and production workflow absorbed into the surviving publication's online infrastructure. The editorial team evolved alongside these changes, with founding contributions from Richard Simms, who helped launch the magazine in 1997 and later served as executive editor, overseeing content strategy and writer assignments during its print heyday. Dawn Owens held the role of from at least the mid-2010s until the print shutdown, during which she managed editorial direction, coordinated with soap producers for exclusives, and announced the 2020 transition in a public statement emphasizing the publication's legacy. Post-print, Chris Eades emerged as a key figure, serving as senior editor of the website since 2015 after 15 years on the print staff; he handled digital production, including story curation and multimedia integration, before formally joining Digest's team following the 2025 merger. Supporting writers like Michelle Parkerton contributed features and interviews, ensuring continuity in voice and expertise as the outlet moved online, with her work later carrying over to the merged platform. The team's emphasis on insider access and fan-focused remained central, drawing from long tenures that fostered deep industry relationships.

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