"All My Children" has a major February sweeps storyline brewing. One major character dies. Another one is near death, and one couple get closer as their world literally comes crashing down around them. Real Andrews is headed to "AMC," playing Agent Trumble. His character will mix it up with Jake and Cara. The actor played Taggert on "General Hospital" when the show was really good.

One of my favorite actors and human beings is joining "Bold and Beautiful." A Martinez is set to play Dr. Ramon Montgomery, a very close friend of Bill. Bill asks Ramon to independently find out if Amber is indeed pregnant by his son, Liam. Come on, can't he just trust the results from the Never Get It Right DNA lab that every other soap and "B&B" have used for years?

A lot of the press has been crowing that James Franco would love to host the Daytime Emmys. That quote is out of context. At the Television Critics Association, the actor — who is hosting the Academy Awards, most likely will be nominated for an Oscar (for his work in "127 Hours") and returns to "General Hospital" for February sweeps — said the following when asked about his future plans: "Maybe next, I'll get to host the Daytime Emmys. ... Hey, if they ask me, I might do it. I would love that." That is akin to saying I would love to do an extreme sport if they ask me. When they ask me, I will say no. This does not mean Franco would not do it. It is not like his agent is calling NATAS trying to book him. The Daytime Emmys are slated to take place in Las Vegas in mid-June. No word on where it will be telecast.

Tonja Walker is headed back to "One Life to Live" as Alex next month. It is a short-term stay. Most likely, she will be involved in the Clint and Bo hate fest.

ABC is planning a Valentine's special for Feb. 11. The theme is classic weddings. On "AMC," Erica and Jackson wed in Boca Raton, Fla., under the banyan tree. The wedding was shot on location in Florida and includes Kendall, Greenlee, Bianca, Ethan, Zach, Reggie and Lily. On "One Life to Live," Todd and Blair get married, surrounded by their family, and share a romantic moment at home as he showers her with gold balloons. In Ireland, Patrick admits to Marty who he really is, and they make love. Kelly asks Joey to rid her of her virginity, and Alex runs for mayor. Todd is played by Roger Howarth teasing the upcoming story with Ted King and the Roger/Todd photo. On "GH," it is Robin and Patrick's wedding day. Jason asks Sonny to quit the Zacchara organization. Later, Sonny and Carly visit comatose Michael on his birthday, as Sam recovers from Jerry's treachery.

These encore episodes are risky. Every time I watch one, I think how good soaps can be and of late how good they have not been.

To find out more about Lynda Hirsch and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate web page at www.creators.com.