Rebecca Budig and Greg Rikaart are partners in their latest venture, a new podcast titled “Soapy”, where they delve into the world of daytime TV with some of the industry’s biggest stars. The podcast, which premiered on July 8, features conversations with iconic figures such as Eric Braeden from The Young and the Restless. Rikaart, known for his roles on Y&R and Days of Our Lives, and Budig, currently starring on The Bold and the Beautiful, bring a unique dynamic to the show.
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The two actors, who have been close friends for nearly two decades, share a playful camaraderie that shines through in their podcast. Rikaart describes their relationship as having a brother-sister dynamic, filled with teasing and a deep bond. Encouraged by their respective partners, Budig’s husband Michael Benson and Rikaart’s husband Rob Sudduth, the duo decided to collaborate on this project that celebrates the world of soap operas.

Budig’s soap opera journey began in 1995 on Guiding Light, followed by roles on All My Children, General Hospital, and now The Bold and the Beautiful. Rikaart, on the other hand, gained fame through his portrayal of Kevin Fisher on Y&R, later joining Days of Our Lives as Leo Stark. The podcast allows them to reflect on their combined 50 years of experience in the soap opera industry and share insights with their listeners.

With the recent premiere of CBS’s new soap opera “Beyond the Gates”, Budig felt it was the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the often underrated genre of soap operas. She believes that there is a lot to celebrate in the soap opera world and looks forward to engaging in conversations with her colleagues in the industry. The podcast also provides a platform for them to share their perspectives as actors, offering listeners a unique behind-the-scenes look at the world of daytime TV.
Despite initially hesitating about their partnership on the podcast, Budig and Rikaart have found a rhythm that works for them. Their shared experiences in the soap opera industry have allowed them to connect on a deeper level with their guests, from fellow actors to soap opera legends. Through their conversations, they bring a fresh perspective to the podcast that resonates with fans and industry insiders alike.
As they navigate this new venture together, Budig and Rikaart are excited to explore the world of podcasting and connect with their audience in a different way. Their genuine friendship and mutual respect shine through in each episode of “Soapy”, making it a must-listen for fans of daytime TV. The podcast is now available on all major podcast platforms for listeners to enjoy and engage with the captivating world of soap operas.
In conclusion, Rebecca Budig and Greg Rikaart’s podcast “Soapy” offers a unique insight into the world of soap operas, bringing together their shared experiences and passion for the industry. Through engaging conversations with industry veterans and rising stars, they aim to celebrate the art of soap opera and challenge the stigmas often associated with this genre. Their friendship and camaraderie add a personal touch to each episode, making “Soapy” a delightful and informative listen for fans of daytime TV.
