Eric Braeden (Victor, Young & the Restless) has scored tickets for the World Cup in Germany this summer, and he's set to leave July 1. There's no word on how much time he'll be off the show, but the event will take three weeks. In other news, Victoria Rowell (Dru) has an outside project that will take her away for several weeks, to commence June 7. At General Hospital, it's official -- Finola Hughes (Anna) will return later this month and stay the summer. Over at Passions, the show is trying to slash the budget and keep the show on the network for at least another year. Fifteen crew members were out as are John Reilly (Alistair), Kelli McCarty (Beth) and Adrian Wilson (Chris) with supposedly more to come. And at Guiding Light, Kim Zimmer (Reva) has inked a new deal with the show.

All My Children Marcus Patrick debuts as Jamal June 29.

Days of Our Lives Spencer and Garrett Fraye appear in Hope's dream of Zack June 5.

Guiding Light Survivor: Guatemala runner-up Stephanie LaGrossa plays a waitress June 8. Reality TV producer Blaire Brooks stars as Mia June 7.

One Life to Live Pamela Sabaugh airs as Annie, Evangeline's counselor beginning June 6. (Pamela really is blind.)

Passions James Stevenson appears as Jared July 21. Due to McKenzie Westmore's maternity leave, Kam Heskin (right) will step into the role July 5 for three months. McKenzie exits June 15.

Young & the Restless American Idol contestant Josh Gracin plays Jake, who tries to pick up Phyllis in a bar on June 29.

All My Children Erica and Jeff have a disagreement over Josh. Kendall makes a surprise appearance at JR's hearing. Dixie appeals to Zach on JR's behalf.

As the World Turns Emily finds a way to undo past wrongs. Jade threatens to blab some secrets to Gwen.

Bold & the Beautiful Bridget admits her true feelings for Dante. Brooke models lingerie for Ridge. Jackie confronts Stephen about his affair with Taylor.

Days of Our Lives Lexie retakes her breast cancer tests. Mimi is rushed to the ER. Kayla returns to Salem.

General Hospital Ric manipulates Sonny. Manny sets a trap for Sam and Jason. Robin shatters Carly's world.

Guiding Light Dinah is jealous of someone else. Cassie comforts Josh in his time of need. Alan learns Beth has a secret.

One Life to Live David prepares to spill Spencer's secret. Nora finally speaks. Margaret tries to tell Bo the truth.

Passions Kay tries to explain the mermaid curse to Fox. J.T. tries to attack Theresa, but hurts Ethan instead. Maya takes Noah down.

Young & the Restless Jill tries Internet dating. Lily turns to Neil after an argument with Daniel. Victor gives Nikki a surprising gift.

SPOTLIGHT ON...Jason Cook (Shawn D. Brady, Days of Our Lives)

Originally from New Jersey, the Cook family moved to Los Angeles when Jason was born. At age 12, Jason was playing the occasional weekend wedding reception and winning piano competitions. His childhood dream was to play professional soccer. It was the lead role in a high school play of Whodunit? that changed his mind. Luckily for Jason, his best friend's father was a theatrical manager and helped him become an actor.

Jason's first TV appearance was as the host of the Disney Channel's Project Time. On stage, he's played Tony in West Side Story and Dimitrius in A Midsummer Night's Dream.

Jason currently lives in Los Angeles and he continues to play soccer. He recently directed a short documentary film that he hopes to enter in nationwide film festivals. His birthday is September 13.

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