I really think it is hard for new writers who really don't know the characters or history. I was very glad Sheri came on as consultant, along with Ryan. His previous gigs were with shows with which he was familiar, and while he has tried to watch videos on you tube, they removed most, so that makes it hard. This is why most writers like to bring in new characters they create. I give him credit for not only dealing with who he has, but also in using familiar characters from the past in story.
However, it does seem he has used variations of successful plots from previous gigs, which might have gone over well there, but not so much here. Am sure the Bella contest was not his idea to visit, even changing it up a bit has not helped. But then, that happens all the time, whether new story, or characters or not. On all the soaps.
Days biggest problem is filming so far ahead, it means they cannot end or change something quickly. So it has to play out. And despite their one week a month non-filming, or 2 weeks or more around holidays, they still are way too far ahead. It really is ridiculous.
They could slow down the filming, still take all the time off, and still be months ahead. Actors mention all the time about doing scenes from 2-3 shows on same day. Ridiculous.
