A groundbreaking soap, featuring Augusta native Maurice Johnson, debuted Feb. 24 on CBS.
If you haven’t seen “Beyond the Gates” yet, or you already hate Hayley, join others for a watch party March 7 at the Henry Brigham Community Center. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m. for the 1 p.m. viewing.
On Wednesday, Johnson, who plays Dr. Ted Richardson, said via text that there are some “really good episodes” leading up to Friday to get to speed on the plot line.
And he said he’s #TeamHayley because Bill was the one who left his wife for her.
“The other woman is always a juicy storyline in soaps,” he said via text.
Johnson said he will be in attendance and expects members of the Augusta-Richmond County commission to be there as well as a lot of soap fans.
In a Nov. 3, 2024, Augusta Good News’ article, Johnson reflected on being cast in the soap and spoke about shooting the first episodes. Read the full article here.
“This is going to be a groundbreaker,” said the Glenn Hills High School graduate. “This is huge for me. I’ll be working alongside Clifton Davis and others who came from the soap world.”
A major network hasn’t launched a new soap since 1999 when NBC debuted “Passions.” A concept of CBS Studios/NAACP Venture, led by Sheila Ducksworth, in partnership with P&G Studios, a division of Procter & Gamble. “Beyond the Gates” will feature all of the steam that soaps are known for as well as the complicated relationships among its characters, but Johnson expects “Beyond the Gates” to offer diverse characters and plot lines.
The show is filmed in Atlanta.
In the November article, Johnson said he wants to be a role model for younger generations. By showing an educated affluent character who grew up in a wealthy family, he believes that provides an image for children and young adults to aspire to.
Also, he said being part of something brand new adds its own form of excitement.
“We’re not coming on ‘The Young and the Restless’ or ‘The Bold and The Beautiful’ and reprising a role. We’re able to create a role from ground up,” he said.
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for more than 35 years. She’s a Georgia Press Association award winner.Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
