The long-running soap opera “Guiding Light” bid farewell to its fans in 2009 after an impressive 72-year run on radio and television. The show’s departure left many viewers wondering about the future endeavors of its beloved cast. As of 2016, several years after the final episode aired, fans were still curious about where the stars of Springfield had landed. This article delves into the whereabouts of the “Guiding Light” cast as of 2016, providing a comprehensive update on their careers and personal lives.

Kim Zimmer (Reva Shayne)

Kim Zimmer, who portrayed the iconic Reva Shayne, continued her acting career on stage and screen. By 2016, she had appeared in several off-Broadway productions and had guest roles on TV shows like “The Doctors” and “30 Rock.” Zimmer also authored her memoir, “I’m Just Sayin’!” which gave fans an inside look at her life and career.

Robert Newman (Joshua Lewis)

Robert Newman, known for his role as Joshua Lewis, remained active in the theater scene. He took on roles in various regional theater productions across the country, including performances in “Peter Pan,” “Shenandoah,” and “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.”

Beth Chamberlin (Beth Raines)

After “Guiding Light,” Beth Chamberlin, who played Beth Raines, focused on her fitness career. She released a fitness DVD and became a certified personal trainer. Chamberlin also made guest appearances on other soap operas, such as “The Young and the Restless.”

Grant Aleksander (Phillip Spaulding)

Grant Aleksander continued to act post-“Guiding Light,” appearing in stage productions and independent films. He also stepped behind the camera, directing a few projects. Aleksander remained involved in animal welfare advocacy, a passion he shared with his fans.

Crystal Chappell (Olivia Spencer)

Crystal Chappell, who played Olivia Spencer, became a pioneer in digital soap operas. She created and starred in the web series “Venice: The Series,” which won several awards. Chappell also appeared on “Days of Our Lives” and “The Bold and the Beautiful.”

Jordan Clarke (Billy Lewis II)

Jordan Clarke, known for his role as Billy Lewis II, took a step back from acting after “Guiding Light” ended. He focused on his health following a stroke in 2005 and made occasional appearances at fan events.

Frank Dicopoulos (Frank Cooper Jr.)

Frank Dicopoulos shifted his focus to the business world, becoming a motivational speaker and marketing consultant. He also stayed connected to the entertainment industry through hosting and acting opportunities.

Tina Sloan (Lillian Raines)

Tina Sloan, who portrayed Lillian Raines, continued to act in films and on stage. She also wrote a book titled “Changing Shoes,” which was inspired by her one-woman show. Sloan remained an active speaker, discussing aging gracefully and her experiences in show business.

Justin Deas (Buzz Cooper)

Justin Deas, the actor behind Buzz Cooper, largely retired from acting after “Guiding Light.” He made rare public appearances and chose to keep a low profile, enjoying his life away from the spotlight.

Ron Raines (Alan Spaulding)

Ron Raines, who played the formidable Alan Spaulding, continued his successful career in musical theater. He appeared in Broadway productions like “Annie” and “Newsies,” showcasing his vocal talents to new audiences.

Elizabeth Keifer (Christina “Blake” Marler)

Elizabeth Keifer, known as Christina “Blake” Marler on the show, pursued teaching after “Guiding Light.” She became an acting coach and continued to act in theater productions. Keifer also participated in fan events and soap opera cruises.

Jerry verDorn (Ross Marler)

Jerry verDorn, who played Ross Marler, joined the cast of “One Life to Live” after “Guiding Light” ended. He continued to act until “One Life to Live” concluded in 2012. Post-soap opera, verDorn enjoyed retirement and focused on his family.

Michael O’Leary (Dr. Rick Bauer)

Michael O’Leary stayed active in the entertainment industry, creating and starring in the web series “Steamboat.” He also made guest appearances on other television shows and remained a favorite at soap opera fan events.

Maureen Garrett (Holly Norris)

Maureen Garrett, who played Holly Norris, took a break from acting to focus on her personal life. She occasionally attended fan events and reunions, much to the delight of her loyal followers.

Lawrence Saint-Victor (Remy Boudreau)

Lawrence Saint-Victor found success after “Guiding Light” by joining the cast of “The Bold and the Beautiful.” He also co-wrote episodes for the show and continued to work on his craft as an actor and writer.

Where Are They Now: A Summary Table

Here is a summary table of the “Guiding Light” cast members and their whereabouts as of 2016:

| Actor | Character | Where Are They Now (2016) |
|———————-|———————-|————————————————————|
| Kim Zimmer | Reva Shayne | Acting on stage/screen, authored a memoir |
| Robert Newman | Joshua Lewis | Regional theater productions |
| Beth Chamberlin | Beth Raines | Fitness career, occasional acting |
| Grant Aleksander | Phillip Spaulding | Acting, directing, animal welfare advocacy |
| Crystal Chappell | Olivia Spencer | Created web series, acting on other soaps |
| Jordan Clarke | Billy Lewis II | Focused on health, occasional fan events |
| Frank Dicopoulos | Frank Cooper Jr. | Motivational speaking, marketing consultant |
| Tina Sloan | Lillian Raines | Acting, writing, speaking on aging and show business |
| Justin Deas | Buzz Cooper | Retired from acting, low profile |
| Ron Raines | Alan Spaulding | Musical theater, Broadway productions |
| Elizabeth Keifer | Christina Marler | Teaching, acting coaching, theater acting |
| Jerry verDorn | Ross Marler | Acted on “One Life to Live,” then retired |
| Michael O’Leary | Dr. Rick Bauer | Created web series, guest TV appearances |
| Maureen Garrett | Holly Norris | Break from acting, occasional fan events |
| Lawrence Saint-Victor | Remy Boudreau | Acting on “The Bold and the Beautiful,” writing |

FAQs About the Guiding Light Cast in 2016

  • Did any “Guiding Light” cast members return to daytime TV after the show ended?
    Yes, several cast members, including Crystal Chappell and Lawrence Saint-Victor, returned to daytime television on shows like “Days of Our Lives” and “The Bold and the Beautiful.”
  • Have any former “Guiding Light” stars transitioned to other careers?
    Yes, some stars like Beth Chamberlin and Frank Dicopoulos have pursued careers in fitness and business, respectively.
  • Are “Guiding Light” cast members still involved with fan events?
    Many cast members continue to engage with fans through events, cruises, and reunions, celebrating the legacy of the show.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cast of “Guiding Light” has ventured into diverse paths since the show’s finale. From continuing their acting careers on stage and screen to exploring new professions and passions, the actors have kept busy and remained in the public eye to varying degrees. As of 2016, they had embraced the changes in their professional lives while still holding a special place in the hearts of their fans. The legacy of “Guiding Light” lives on through the ongoing work and public engagements of its talented cast.

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