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The Great Mason Capwell Recast Debate
(I must admit that I was one of those closed-minded viewers who never gave Terry Lester or Gordon Thomson a
chance as Mason Capwell. I turned off Santa Barbara right after Lane's last scene, never to return. To this day, I
have no regrets of doing so.)
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provided.
NEW! Another Mason? That's what SB is considering, insiders tell us, now that Lane Davies (Mason Capwell) is
leaving the show. Nothing's for sure yet about recasting, but it is a possibility that's being carefully weighed. SON
May 22, 1989
Both Mason and Jack are going to be nearly impossible to cast with familiar soap faces. Both require similar
types—classically trained actors in their 30s (being well-versed in Shakespeare is essential for Mason; being
adroit and fluid is necessary for Jack. Both require stepping into well-defined roles (in some ways set as rigidly in
audience mindset as Richard III); whoever assumes these roles will need to take a long time to remake the
characters in their own image. We hope SB and Y&R are offering megabucks to cast Mason and Jack. Managing
Editor’s Corner, SON May 29, 1989
..there's trouble in paradise: a popular actor has left the soap, and its two former executive producers are waging
a legal battle to come back.
Lane Davies, who has played attorney Mason Capwell since Santa Barbara’s inception in 1984, left the soap in
early July. According to Mary Andersen, SB’s public relations coordinator, “Lane’s on a ‘round-the-world tour’ (with
another former Santa Barbara cast member, Todd McKee, who played Mason’s brother, Ted) and we hope he will
return in six months.”
But Davies’ return is in doubt. Although this is not the first time he has left Santa Barbara—in recent years, he’s
taken off summers to perform in Shakespearean productions in Hollywood and Atlanta—Davies has been reported
as saying his departure this time is permanent. ...Trouble On Santa Barbara: A Star Exits, Ex-Producers Sue, TV
Guide
Don't expect to see a new Ted Capwell any time soon, either. Apparently SB's in no rush to recast since Paul
Johanssen's fulfilling virtually the same storyline function as Greg Hughes. Not so the case re: Mason Capwell. No
dragging of feet here, just a very tall order. SON July 24, 1989
And latest word on the recasting of Mason Capwell is that the show's given up its search for the time being. This is
one role it didn't relish filling, and hope is that after some time off, Lane Davies might just decide he wants back in.
SON July 31, 1989
The role was recently vacated by "the divine" Lane Davies, who left for a year-long around-the-world tour. It had
been assumed that "SB" was holding the role open for the very popular actor's eventual return....
Davies and Lester are unique performers, they have a very similar appeal, and theirs is an extremely rare one in
the usually less-than-cerebral soap world. Both actors have projected their own intelligence onto their roles,
making Jack and Mason more sophisticated - and sexier - than the standard soap characters. Both characters are
scions of large industrial families, both started out as villains, and both evolved into darkly flawed heroes once
they became audience favorites.
It takes real acting skill to pull off such roles, but even more to go out and actually create them. In Lester, "SB" has
found the perfect successor to Davies. (But does this mean we're never - sob! - going to see Davies again?) Terry
Lester Packs Bags for ‘Santa Barbara’
...One of SANTA BARBARA's most popular leading men, Lane Davies, had just voluntarily abdicated his role of
Mason Capwell. It didn't take long for SB to realize that Terry Lester might be the ideal candidate to replace Lane
Davies...Terry Lester Ditches Y&R and Switches to Santa Barbara, SOD Oct. 31, 1989
After reading about the Q ratings and a TERRY LESTER backlash for The Young and the Restless, I understand
Tina Moore and A.E. Kaler's negative attitudes toward any recast for Mason (Letters to the Editor, Oct. 2). Please
remember that as fans, objectivity is a moot point when a favorite actor vacates his or her role. Letter to SON Oct.
23, 1989
VIEWER 1: TERRY LESTER as Mason? Never! He lacks Lane Davies' subtle manner. And that is what Mason is.
Santa Barbara, shame on you. A rookie would have been more appropriate than "Jack Abbott."
EDITOR: As for Terry Lester as Mason-I agree that subtlety was one of Lane Davies' strongest suits in his
portrayal, and his Mason will always be one of my fondest memories of SB (particularly when there was little to
stand up and cheer about going on there). I would be disappointed if Lester or any actor chosen to play the role
were to try and duplicate what he did. In the long run, I believe the most successful re-casts are those in which
there is a concerted effort made to not imitate what was done before. I think Lester's more than got his work cut
out for him, just as Peter Bergman's will be when he steps into the Jack Abbott role on Y&R that was created and
played to perfection by Lester. Following in the footsteps of a talented and popular performer is never easy, but as
I've indicated before, it definitely is possible.
VIEWER 2: I am so tired of hearing people say, "So and so (this actor) is not so and so (this character)" [i.e. Terry
Lester replacing Lane Davies as Mason Capwell on SB.] Like you, I feel it's important to keep an open mind and
render a judgment after a couple of months of viewing.... Letters to SON Nov. 06, 1989
So what's the point of all this? No actor is irreplaceable. If that were true, no one would be allowed to play Hamlet
anymore. After all, I loved Lane Davies as Mason in Santa Barbara. But you know what? I think Terry Lester is
better. I hope they're paying him well. Managing Editor's Corner, SON Nov. 13, 1989
VIEWER1: You are a hypocrite. Just a few weeks ago you were telling viewers to turn the channel if they didn't
like their favorite actor leaving a show or if they didn't like the way a show was going. Then you turn around and
tell viewers of Santa Barbara that wrote in complaining of Lane Davies' departure that they should give TERRY
LESTER (Mason) a chance. You can't have it both ways. Are you Terry Lester's biggest fan, or do you just not like
Lane Davies? Your entire response to those writers was full of lies and garbage.
EDITOR: My response to those letter writers had nothing to do with my feeling for either Lester or Davies (I've
stated it before, but again, I was, am and will continue to be a big fan of both actors). I still believe the best
recourse viewers have to let shows know how they feel is to tune in if they like a show and to tune out if they
don't. However, to make a decision like that without giving a show and/or a performer a chance is short-sighted.
My advice to those disgruntled SBers was to watch Lester as Mason for a while before judging him. I think that's
only fair. A bunch of clichés comes to mine-at the top of the list that one about not judging a book by its cover.
Thank about it. The letter that follows shows that some people did.
VIEWER 2: As a big Lane Davies fan, I have waited a month to render my judgment on Terry Lester as Mason,
and I must say that I am surprised at how much I am enjoying him. He was right to play his own Mason instead of
imitating Lane Davies, as he is playing a lighter Mason and this is actually refreshing.
He and NANCY GRAHN have been delightful with the romantic comedy, and I hope the show will continue with
more of this. The Mason/Julia stories have been pretty depressing much of the time, when the attractive thing
about this couple is how much fun they can be. They are clever, witty, funny and intelligent. There have been
many times when I have actually laughed out loud at them. They need some lighter stories and less of the "dump
on Julia" theme that had been dished out to us in daily doses the last few years.
VIEWER 3: Like you, I also think Terry Lester's first day on SB was very well done, and entertaining. It was a little
like watching Jack Abbott playing Mason, but I enjoyed it and hope the fans who've watched SB longer than I have
will give Terry Lester a chance. Letters to SON, Nov. 20, 1989
Dobson did give high marks to recent cast addition TERRY LESTER (Mason), however. "I Terry looks like he isn't
Lane [Davies]-he's giving his own quality to the character. We've always enjoyed writing to the strengths of an
actor, and I think we'd enjoy writing for Terry. It's obvious that he is a talent." Interview with the Dobsons, SON
Dec. 04, 1989
Mason [Terry Lester] is no longer a complex, witty and cynical yet essentially decent character. He is now a poor
imitation: a shallow pretentious fop. The faulty is not Terry Lester’s. Your writers have managed to reduce what
was your most fascinating character into a sleazeball. This makes Julia’s [NANCY GRAHN] devotion to Mason
impossible to believe. Letter to SON, Dec. 11, 1989
VIEWER 1: "Same old Mason," says Gina on SANTA BARBARA. But he is not. The old Mason would never had
greeted her with such open affection, for one thing. He was on guard at all times. This new Mason, played by
Terry Lester, is far more jaunty and lacks the edge that Lane Davies brought to the role. The sarcastic quips don’t
sound half as clever as when Lane delivered them. Those who thought the old Mason was too uptight will
probably prefer the new version. Speaking for myself, there never was ---or ever will be - a character as endlessly
fascinating, irresistible and provocative as Mason Capwell, as played by Lane Davies. If the producers decide to
have Terry Lester fill in just temporarily and bring back Lane in a few months, they will have me back as a viewer.
Viewer 2: I didn't think it was possible, but SANTA BARBARA has done it! The most inventive daytime soap on the
airwaves has replaced Lane Davies with an equal in the person of Terry Lester. After five minutes, I knew Mr.
Lester would be a memorable Mason Capwell. He and Nancy Grahn (Julia have a definite spark, and I have but
one question: why has this man never won an Emmy? True, I never saw him as Jack Abbott on THE YOUNG AND
THE RESTLESS, but I can’t imagine that all that talent sprang from dust. Ah well, away with the past. I hope Terry
Lester has a long and happy future at SB. He can quote Shakespeare to me anytime. Letters to SOD, Dec. 26,
1989
Who'd a thunk it? Who can replace Lane Davies as Mason Capwell? No one, impossible! But they did it, with the
only man in daytime who could carry it off. Terry Lester is as sharped-tongued and acerbic as Lane ever was, and
really good looking enough to carry off the romantic angles. And there is no doubt he’s having fun doing it, too.
“It's like working on Saturday Night Live every day,” he said in a recent interview.
Keep up the good work. Rating The Replacements, SOW Dec. 26, 1989
VIEWER 1: My blood's boiling. I have had enough of the Santa Barbara bashing band wagon everyone seems to
be jumping on...
I'm also tired of the old Mason-new Mason debate...
EDITOR: The great (and not unexpected) hue and cry over Cruz-Eden break-up and the controversial Mason re-
cast that preceded it have been two very hot potatoes for SB, well documented by the volume (and velocity) of
viewer response....
VIEWER 2: The loss of Lane Davies was a particularly cruel trick played on the fans. Where we were given to
believe he would return at the end of his six-month trek, we were suddenly presented with Terry Lester taking over
the role. While I can understand the coup of capturing an actor like Terry, there were many ways he could have
been written in without the loss of Mason. And we did lose Mason. Whether it's Terry's portrayal of Mason or just
the way he's being written now, this is not the Mason we loved so well. With Terry we've lost the vulnerability of
before, the suaveness of Mason and even moreso the passion that was inherent between Mason and Julia. ...
EDITOR: About the departure of Lane Davies: I don't recall the show ever promising fans they'd definitely re-hire
him after his trip around the world. I think SB would have welcomed him back if the role was open, if he was
interested and if both parties were able to come up with a mutually agreed contract. Davies' departure was never
a hiatus for a specific amount of time: he left the show of his own volition when his contract was up. SB was under
no obligation to keep the role (and storyline involving several other characters) in limbo. And when Lester became
available, SB would've been stupid not to sign him. Hey, that's showbiz. Letters to SON, Jan. 08, 1990
NEW! Best Game of Musical Chairs – Trading Places: Lane Davies made news by leaving his pivotal SANTA
BARBARA role of sexy, sardonic Mason Capwell. Terry Lester, Emmy-award nominee for his own major role as
sexy, sardonic Jack Abbott on the #1-rated YOUNG AND RESTLESS, made bigger news by taking over for
Davies. Insiders weren’t shocked – Lester was a logical choice for the black sheep of the Capwell family. What did
come as a surprise was the replacement for Lester: Peter Bergman, who had just been released from his long-
running role as nice guy Cliff on ALL MY CHILDREN. Bergman’s abrupt dismissal had stunned many in the
industry, and followed the decision not to continue the interracial love story of Cliff and Angie (Debbi Morgan, who
play Angie, remained on AMC). Many were please to see the well-liked Bergman land a plum role so soon after his
AMC termination. Best and Worst Off-Camera SOD Jan. 09, 1990
NEW! Special care was taken at SANTA BARBARA when it came time to replace Lane Davies as Mason Capwell.
“Mason is a very important character,” notes Jill Farren Phelps. It would have been dangerous to recast that role
with just anybody. With as solid as performer as Terry, you know he’ll bring his intelligence to it,” Lester
acknowledges that replacing Lane Davies “really raised the stakes” for him. Nonetheless, he was well aware of
the pitfalls. “You can’t be afraid to make it your own,” Lester points out. “You have to be brazen enough to take it
on, to say, ‘These are character traits to keep; these are personality traits to dismiss.’” Trade Secrets: Who’s That
Guy? (About recasting a popular role) SOD Feb. 6, 1990
My criticism of Healy’s arrival does not apply to the recasting of Terry Lester as Mason. Lane Davies is a great
actor! I thought his scenes with NANCY GRAHN, whatever their offscreen relationship was, had unmatched
intimacy and passion. I hope Lane finds success in feature films or on stage. However, I believe Terry Lester has
been a tremendous addition to the show. His Mason has warmth and emotional depth that should be more fully
exploited with Julia. Letter to SON Feb. 12, 1990.
...the most popular topic has been whether or not the new Mason (Terry Lester) can fill the old Mason's (Lane
Davies) shoes. We've received plenty of vehement opinions from fans on both sides, but the die-hard Davies' fans
make up the majority. SOW Mail Call, February 27, 1990
The audience was vehemently divided when Davies left the show (his choice) and was replaced by the very
popular Terry Lester (ex-Jack, The Young and the Restless). Although one misses the brooding, Heathcliff
qualities Davies brought to the role, Lester is a smash in the comedy department. Lester also has Mason's little
boy desperation down pat, and the Jack Abbott-patented mannerisms are thankfully going by the wayside.
(Remember, people, Days' Mary Beth Evans and Drake Hogestyn were not the original Kayla and Roman Brady.
And the list of replacements actors goes on and on.) Madness, Mirth, and Mason, SOW Feb. 27, 1990
In the light of the controversy surrounding the recasting of Mason Capwell on SB (certainly a thankless task), I've
got a question…why did SB bother to recast the role if they didn't intend to preserve the character? The truth is it's
impossible to tell if Terry Lester is capable of playing Mason because the writers haven’t written Mason since he
arrived.
How has he changed? Mason was troubled but brilliant. The “new” Mason is stupid-he allows himself to be
blackmailed not just once, but twice, by that bimbo Sasha. He gets mixed up in mob activities. He expects Julia
[NANCY GRAHN] to be dumb enough to not notice any of it. Give us a break. Even when Mason was insane, he
wasn't an idiot.
Mason was the most articulate creature on the planet. Suddenly he has forgotten every word Shakespeare wrote,
not to mention the rest of the great literature he could spout at slightest provocation. What did he have? A
lobotomy?
Mason was a creative, inventive lawyer. True, as a Capwell he probably doesn’t need to work for a living, but
Mason always did, and brilliantly. The “new” Mason hasn't cracked a lawbook for five months.
Despite his inherent deviousness, Mason was essentially a good, loving man. His worst deeds were backed by
the best intentions. We believed he loved Julia and Samantha more than life. Who could believe that of the
insensitive jerk SB is giving us now?
So what is SB thinking in transforming its best character? Does it honestly believe this is what the viewers want to
see? Does it think Terry Lester can’t handle the real thing? Is it afraid that Lester wouldn't bear up well in the
inevitable comparisons with Lane Davies that would result if it wrote the “real” Mason? I read that the writers
wanted to write for the new actor’s strengths, but what’s the logic in that when the character disappears? Sign Me
Curious.
EDITOR: …The “old” Mason was, indeed, a wonderful and memorable character, but I think SB was wise to alter
him somewhat to allow for the differences between Davies and Lester. Letters to SON April 9, 1990
VIEWER 1: The big ratings dip came when two share points-worth of viewers fled because they couldn't bear to
watch SB transform the tragically complex hero Mason Capwell [ex-Lane Davies, now Terry Lester] into a scenery-
chewing buffoon. They never came back, and why should they?
VIEWER 2: I think you missed an important point in your response to "Sign Me Curious" and her plea for the "Old"
Mason Capwell to return to SB [SONow! April 9]. I agree with the writer that the Sasha [ex-Michelle Nicastro]
storyline was implausible, however I never doubted Mason's love for Julia and Samantha, just the writers'
understanding of the two characters. I feel Terry Lester should have the opportunity to make the role his own, but
your response implies that it is casting against type to expect that Mason remain a lawyer. Whether the character
quotes Shakespeare or can summon up the words to IF or the lyrics to Cole Porter is an interesting but not
indispensable part of the character. That he appear in the courtroom is...
I did not expect Mr. Lester to imitate Lane Davies, but if the fact that we have yet to see him in the courtroom has
anything to do with the actor's desire not to play one, then why take over an existing role?
I am anxious to see Mason and Julia return to their legal sparring. The law serves as a focal point for their
divergent views and is an integral part of their life and their relationship. Terry Lester has certainly opened the
character and has brought warmth, romance, charm and maturity to Mason. He and Ms. Grahn have established
incredible chemistry in a very short time and I especially like his scenes with Samantha. I can now understand
what Julia saw in Mason besides his willingness to father her child.
I realize many viewers still have not accepted Mr. Lester in this role. However, he has become Mason in my mind,
albeit a different one, but brilliant in his own way. Letters to SON, April 30, 1990
VIEWER: Bring back Lane Davies to SANTA BARBARA! Although his replacement, Terry Lester, is a fine actor,
his talent is being wasted on the role of Mason Capwell, a character so uniquely created by Lane. This became
glaringly evident during the storyline dealing with Mason and Julia’s [Nancy Grahn] marital problems. Only Davies
is capable of portraying both the comic and tragic elements of Mason in his drunken episodes. Terry converted
the character into a pathetic drunk. Lane was able to evoke sympathy from the viewers, but his complex, Hamlet-
like nature gave us something to ponder. Where is the bitter, sardonic tone softened with pleas for acceptance
from his father? We miss the elegance soliloquies blending attorney-ses with Shakespeare, with a little Tennyson
thrown in. Lane Davies created an ever-intriguing character. We miss his performances. Letter to SOD, May 01,
1990
VIEWER: Many times you've suggested "sampling" a new soap when your current one becomes unbearable.
Several weeks ago I begun to sample Santa Barbara. It's so fantastic...
I also like the hilarious antics of Julia [Nancy Grahn] and Mason. Terry Lester does such a good job in the role. I
can't understand why people don't like him.
EDITOR: I agree that Terry Lester's doing a bang-up job with Mason-better all the time, in fact-but he's still got
quite a selling job to do to win over some Lane Davies fans. That might be hard for someone who didn't know the
"old" Mason to understand. Letter to SON, June 04, 1990
NEW! Last month, Terry Lester stunned the soap world when he quit to pursue work elsewhere. At the time, the
show was in the middle of a hot divorce story for Mason and Julia (Nancy Grahn).
At first, it appeared that Lane Davies – Terry’s predecessor in the role – might return, and a source at the show
admitted, “It’s a definite possibility. We’re not ruling anything out.” Ultimately, however, Lane wasn’t ready to be
lured back to daytime, so SB had to find another high-profile replacement fast. When the producers heard that
Gordon Thomson was available, they felt he’d be perfect as Mason and waived the screen test requirement on the
basis of his six-year track record as DYNASTY’s Adam Carrington. Adam, after all, was a wealthy scoundrel, a
black sheep who blamed everyone else for his problems – in other words, a character not so different from Mason.
Gordon Thomson Joins the Capwell Dynasty SOD Nov. 27, 1990
NEW! Still, Lester readily admits he was nervous about following in the footsteps of Lane Davies, who created
one of the most unique characters on daytime. "I certainly had fears about it, which I think is only natural," he
explains. "Lane Davies is a wonderful actor and I knew that my characterization was going to be very different from
his. I was concerned about whether or not it was going to be accepted."
How did SB fans react to the new Mason? Lester laughs and responds in a bemused tone, "There was a
progression. At first, there were people who were supportive just because they loved the show; then there were
people who were sorry to see me arrive and wished that I would go away; and there were people who began to
watch the show because they were aware of me. Most of them have written to say, 'Thank you for introducing me
to SANTA BARBARA. I had no idea there was anything like this on TV.'"
Luckily for Lester, the naysayers have retreated. "I got a couple of nasty letters at the beginning. Then they either
quit watching or changed their minds or died, I don't know, but I haven't heard from them in a while. The people I
hear from now are very supportive," Lester observes, adding, "I'm sure I still have my detractors out there, but they
have the grace not to write and tell me about it." No Guts, No Glory, Interview of Terry Lester SOD Oct. 02, 1990
...One thing's for sure, we miss his snide remarks and Shakespearean monologues, not too mention that cute
smirk! Inside Hollywood, DTV, Aug. 1990
NEW! With Terry gone, rumors immediately began flying that Lane Davies would return to the role. SB maintained
that they were interviewing a sizable number of actors as possible Masons, but confirmed that Lane's
reappearance was a valid possibility. (At press time, it's no secret that the show has to find a new Mason fast. An
upcoming November's "sweeps" story hinges on Mason's raging alcoholism and his bitter, angry divorce from his
wife, Julia.)
Meanwhile, there's an interesting side-note to the whole Mason Capwell casting situation: despite all the setside
uproar, Terry Lester and Lane Davies are actually friends offscreen - and Terry would be delighted if Lane came
back to SB to reclaim his role. Late Breaking News - Terry Lester Quits SOD Nov. 12, 1990
NEW! But I feel the Dobsons officially engraved announcement of their return came a week later with the multi-
episode Capwell dinner party scene. Mason took his just-out-of-the-mental-hospital mother Pamela (an original
Dobson character, played again by Marj Dusay) to a Capwell family dinner party, where he proceeded to put all
the Capwell “on trial” for their past emotional crimes.
Suddenly, there he was, the real Mason, who had somehow got lost these last three years: witty, cutting,
sardonic, literate, with the trademark asides. But most importantly, beneath all the venom, this real Mason again
showed himself to be shatteringly vulnerable. Mason Capwell is as close to Hamlet or Macbeth as daytime is ever
going to get. Now the professional Marlena isn’t about to get dragged into the debate as to which of the three
actors who have played Mason (Lane Davies, Terry Lester, Gordon Thomson) has been the best. Each has done
a fine job. The bottom line is that the “real” Mason is the one written by the “real” writers of SB. And you know
who they are.
But if we can’t have the absolutely divine Davies…then we’re fortunate to have Thomson. In Thomson, the
Dobsons have an actor eerily capable of playing their Mason. He has the crisp diction and swift delivery needed
for their sophisticated, often literate lines. And, as he proved when he played Adam Carrington on Dynasty,
Thomson is adept at playing dark characters. My only very minor quibble with the fortysomething Thomson is that
he’s a tad too old for the role. Am I hallucinating, or do Thomson and Judith McConnell (who plays Mason’s
stepmother, Sophia) look about the same age? Critical Opinion – On Second Thought…SOW April 1991
NEW! Before Thomson’s hiring, Davies was approached by SB to return as Mason, but he declined. “It just wasn’t
the right time,” the actor says. “The last offer was very handsome but, in the final analysis, my little voice told me
not to do it. I didn’t turn it down with absolutely no regrets – part of me was pulled back.” Lane Davies Grapples
with GOOD AND EVIL SOD Oct. 01, 1991
NEW! I think that SANTA BARBARA has finally cast the perfect Mason Capwell. Gordon Thomson is wonderful
and very believable as the poor little rich boy who’s trying to find his place in this cruel world. Bravo, I hope
Gordon stays for a long time. Sounding Board SOD Oct. 15, 1991
NEW! "It was from [a woman from] from Chicago. She said, 'You ruined my favorite show and my favorite
character. In no way, shape or form could you possibly live up to their [past] excellent performances.' She sent this
with no return address. Out of all the mail I've received, this has been the only absolutely negative letter to date."
Roundup: Gordon Thomson SOD Oct. 15, 1991
NEW! [Justin] Dea's replacement, John Novak, proved a lukewarm successor. "I liked John. We worked well
together, but he had no soap opera background or following," [Robin] Mattson declares. " I think SB would be
better off going with someone who's a strong, known commodity. When Lane Davies (ex-Mason) left, they brought
in Terry Lester, then Gordon Thomson - actors who had their own mark." Will SB lose Robin Mattson Next Month?
SOD Oct. 29, 1991
NEW! Every couple of months, I'll [Lane Davies] click on SANTA BARBARA to see who's working and what's
happening with it, but I haven't sat down and watched an entire episode. I think it's unfortunate what happened
with Terry Lester, because I have great respect for his work (we have plans for a project in the future together).
One of the reasons that I left the show, besides just mental heath, was that I thought the character of Mason had
been homogenized, that the writers at that time had lost touch with who Mason really was and what drove him.
The character had become uninteresting to play. Nobody really warned Terry, so Terry didn't know to protect
Mason from the increasing homogenization. He was becoming domestic as opposed to an active character--
making trouble and making things happen. The character became increasingly more reactive and helpless to the
situations around him.
As for returning to SANTA BARBARA, I never say never, but I think the Dobsons are perfectly happy with Gordon
Thomson, and Gordon seems willing to be there for some time. But never say never...at this time next year, we
may be talking about Mason again. Never Say Never 1991
NEW! …and while Gordon Thomson has grown into a magnificent Mason, without Lane Davies’s sardonic wit,
there’s an element of levity missing from Julia and Mason’s angst-ridden relationship. In fact, SB seems to have all
be given up on the Mason-in-heaven type of humor it was known for in its cult heyday. Opinion: Santa Barbara – A
Class Act SOD March 17, 1992
Lane Davies (Mason) was absolutely perfect,” says [Charles] Pratt. “It was that blend he had. Like no other
Mason, he had that perfect Scrooge blend of cynicism and pessimism and that bah, humbug attitude.” Have
Yourself a Very Merry Santa Barbara Christmas, SOW 1992
NEW! Of course, she’ll [Nancy Grahn] never forget Mason – all three of him. “I loved the entire storyline with Lane
Davies,” she observes. It was a very modern, unsoaplike, funny story. Lane made it different, because he was
very sparing in the amount of love that he showed. But when he did show it, it was powerful. Terry Lester was
more loving, and Mason and Julia became more comfortable with each other. Gordon Thomson took it to a more
serious vein. He brought back a little danger.” SOD Jan. 19, 1993
NEW! But let us return, if for but a paragraph or two, to those days of Camelot, when the President and
Jackie…woops, I mean Mason Capwell (as played by Lane “the divine” Davies), ruled and was most nasty and
acerbic. My love Mason had the wonderful habit of making Shakespearean asides or stepping out of the frame to
make comments on the show’s action. Santa Barbara: A Spot Like Camelot? SOW Nov. 09, 1993
(I must admit that I was one of those closed-minded viewers who never gave Terry Lester or Gordon Thomson a
chance as Mason Capwell. I turned off Santa Barbara right after Lane's last scene, never to return. To this day, I
have no regrets of doing so.)
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provided.
NEW! Another Mason? That's what SB is considering, insiders tell us, now that Lane Davies (Mason Capwell) is
leaving the show. Nothing's for sure yet about recasting, but it is a possibility that's being carefully weighed. SON
May 22, 1989
Both Mason and Jack are going to be nearly impossible to cast with familiar soap faces. Both require similar
types—classically trained actors in their 30s (being well-versed in Shakespeare is essential for Mason; being
adroit and fluid is necessary for Jack. Both require stepping into well-defined roles (in some ways set as rigidly in
audience mindset as Richard III); whoever assumes these roles will need to take a long time to remake the
characters in their own image. We hope SB and Y&R are offering megabucks to cast Mason and Jack. Managing
Editor’s Corner, SON May 29, 1989
..there's trouble in paradise: a popular actor has left the soap, and its two former executive producers are waging
a legal battle to come back.
Lane Davies, who has played attorney Mason Capwell since Santa Barbara’s inception in 1984, left the soap in
early July. According to Mary Andersen, SB’s public relations coordinator, “Lane’s on a ‘round-the-world tour’ (with
another former Santa Barbara cast member, Todd McKee, who played Mason’s brother, Ted) and we hope he will
return in six months.”
But Davies’ return is in doubt. Although this is not the first time he has left Santa Barbara—in recent years, he’s
taken off summers to perform in Shakespearean productions in Hollywood and Atlanta—Davies has been reported
as saying his departure this time is permanent. ...Trouble On Santa Barbara: A Star Exits, Ex-Producers Sue, TV
Guide
Don't expect to see a new Ted Capwell any time soon, either. Apparently SB's in no rush to recast since Paul
Johanssen's fulfilling virtually the same storyline function as Greg Hughes. Not so the case re: Mason Capwell. No
dragging of feet here, just a very tall order. SON July 24, 1989
And latest word on the recasting of Mason Capwell is that the show's given up its search for the time being. This is
one role it didn't relish filling, and hope is that after some time off, Lane Davies might just decide he wants back in.
SON July 31, 1989
The role was recently vacated by "the divine" Lane Davies, who left for a year-long around-the-world tour. It had
been assumed that "SB" was holding the role open for the very popular actor's eventual return....
Davies and Lester are unique performers, they have a very similar appeal, and theirs is an extremely rare one in
the usually less-than-cerebral soap world. Both actors have projected their own intelligence onto their roles,
making Jack and Mason more sophisticated - and sexier - than the standard soap characters. Both characters are
scions of large industrial families, both started out as villains, and both evolved into darkly flawed heroes once
they became audience favorites.
It takes real acting skill to pull off such roles, but even more to go out and actually create them. In Lester, "SB" has
found the perfect successor to Davies. (But does this mean we're never - sob! - going to see Davies again?) Terry
Lester Packs Bags for ‘Santa Barbara’
...One of SANTA BARBARA's most popular leading men, Lane Davies, had just voluntarily abdicated his role of
Mason Capwell. It didn't take long for SB to realize that Terry Lester might be the ideal candidate to replace Lane
Davies...Terry Lester Ditches Y&R and Switches to Santa Barbara, SOD Oct. 31, 1989
After reading about the Q ratings and a TERRY LESTER backlash for The Young and the Restless, I understand
Tina Moore and A.E. Kaler's negative attitudes toward any recast for Mason (Letters to the Editor, Oct. 2). Please
remember that as fans, objectivity is a moot point when a favorite actor vacates his or her role. Letter to SON Oct.
23, 1989
VIEWER 1: TERRY LESTER as Mason? Never! He lacks Lane Davies' subtle manner. And that is what Mason is.
Santa Barbara, shame on you. A rookie would have been more appropriate than "Jack Abbott."
EDITOR: As for Terry Lester as Mason-I agree that subtlety was one of Lane Davies' strongest suits in his
portrayal, and his Mason will always be one of my fondest memories of SB (particularly when there was little to
stand up and cheer about going on there). I would be disappointed if Lester or any actor chosen to play the role
were to try and duplicate what he did. In the long run, I believe the most successful re-casts are those in which
there is a concerted effort made to not imitate what was done before. I think Lester's more than got his work cut
out for him, just as Peter Bergman's will be when he steps into the Jack Abbott role on Y&R that was created and
played to perfection by Lester. Following in the footsteps of a talented and popular performer is never easy, but as
I've indicated before, it definitely is possible.
VIEWER 2: I am so tired of hearing people say, "So and so (this actor) is not so and so (this character)" [i.e. Terry
Lester replacing Lane Davies as Mason Capwell on SB.] Like you, I feel it's important to keep an open mind and
render a judgment after a couple of months of viewing.... Letters to SON Nov. 06, 1989
So what's the point of all this? No actor is irreplaceable. If that were true, no one would be allowed to play Hamlet
anymore. After all, I loved Lane Davies as Mason in Santa Barbara. But you know what? I think Terry Lester is
better. I hope they're paying him well. Managing Editor's Corner, SON Nov. 13, 1989
VIEWER1: You are a hypocrite. Just a few weeks ago you were telling viewers to turn the channel if they didn't
like their favorite actor leaving a show or if they didn't like the way a show was going. Then you turn around and
tell viewers of Santa Barbara that wrote in complaining of Lane Davies' departure that they should give TERRY
LESTER (Mason) a chance. You can't have it both ways. Are you Terry Lester's biggest fan, or do you just not like
Lane Davies? Your entire response to those writers was full of lies and garbage.
EDITOR: My response to those letter writers had nothing to do with my feeling for either Lester or Davies (I've
stated it before, but again, I was, am and will continue to be a big fan of both actors). I still believe the best
recourse viewers have to let shows know how they feel is to tune in if they like a show and to tune out if they
don't. However, to make a decision like that without giving a show and/or a performer a chance is short-sighted.
My advice to those disgruntled SBers was to watch Lester as Mason for a while before judging him. I think that's
only fair. A bunch of clichés comes to mine-at the top of the list that one about not judging a book by its cover.
Thank about it. The letter that follows shows that some people did.
VIEWER 2: As a big Lane Davies fan, I have waited a month to render my judgment on Terry Lester as Mason,
and I must say that I am surprised at how much I am enjoying him. He was right to play his own Mason instead of
imitating Lane Davies, as he is playing a lighter Mason and this is actually refreshing.
He and NANCY GRAHN have been delightful with the romantic comedy, and I hope the show will continue with
more of this. The Mason/Julia stories have been pretty depressing much of the time, when the attractive thing
about this couple is how much fun they can be. They are clever, witty, funny and intelligent. There have been
many times when I have actually laughed out loud at them. They need some lighter stories and less of the "dump
on Julia" theme that had been dished out to us in daily doses the last few years.
VIEWER 3: Like you, I also think Terry Lester's first day on SB was very well done, and entertaining. It was a little
like watching Jack Abbott playing Mason, but I enjoyed it and hope the fans who've watched SB longer than I have
will give Terry Lester a chance. Letters to SON, Nov. 20, 1989
Dobson did give high marks to recent cast addition TERRY LESTER (Mason), however. "I Terry looks like he isn't
Lane [Davies]-he's giving his own quality to the character. We've always enjoyed writing to the strengths of an
actor, and I think we'd enjoy writing for Terry. It's obvious that he is a talent." Interview with the Dobsons, SON
Dec. 04, 1989
Mason [Terry Lester] is no longer a complex, witty and cynical yet essentially decent character. He is now a poor
imitation: a shallow pretentious fop. The faulty is not Terry Lester’s. Your writers have managed to reduce what
was your most fascinating character into a sleazeball. This makes Julia’s [NANCY GRAHN] devotion to Mason
impossible to believe. Letter to SON, Dec. 11, 1989
VIEWER 1: "Same old Mason," says Gina on SANTA BARBARA. But he is not. The old Mason would never had
greeted her with such open affection, for one thing. He was on guard at all times. This new Mason, played by
Terry Lester, is far more jaunty and lacks the edge that Lane Davies brought to the role. The sarcastic quips don’t
sound half as clever as when Lane delivered them. Those who thought the old Mason was too uptight will
probably prefer the new version. Speaking for myself, there never was ---or ever will be - a character as endlessly
fascinating, irresistible and provocative as Mason Capwell, as played by Lane Davies. If the producers decide to
have Terry Lester fill in just temporarily and bring back Lane in a few months, they will have me back as a viewer.
Viewer 2: I didn't think it was possible, but SANTA BARBARA has done it! The most inventive daytime soap on the
airwaves has replaced Lane Davies with an equal in the person of Terry Lester. After five minutes, I knew Mr.
Lester would be a memorable Mason Capwell. He and Nancy Grahn (Julia have a definite spark, and I have but
one question: why has this man never won an Emmy? True, I never saw him as Jack Abbott on THE YOUNG AND
THE RESTLESS, but I can’t imagine that all that talent sprang from dust. Ah well, away with the past. I hope Terry
Lester has a long and happy future at SB. He can quote Shakespeare to me anytime. Letters to SOD, Dec. 26,
1989
Who'd a thunk it? Who can replace Lane Davies as Mason Capwell? No one, impossible! But they did it, with the
only man in daytime who could carry it off. Terry Lester is as sharped-tongued and acerbic as Lane ever was, and
really good looking enough to carry off the romantic angles. And there is no doubt he’s having fun doing it, too.
“It's like working on Saturday Night Live every day,” he said in a recent interview.
Keep up the good work. Rating The Replacements, SOW Dec. 26, 1989
VIEWER 1: My blood's boiling. I have had enough of the Santa Barbara bashing band wagon everyone seems to
be jumping on...
I'm also tired of the old Mason-new Mason debate...
EDITOR: The great (and not unexpected) hue and cry over Cruz-Eden break-up and the controversial Mason re-
cast that preceded it have been two very hot potatoes for SB, well documented by the volume (and velocity) of
viewer response....
VIEWER 2: The loss of Lane Davies was a particularly cruel trick played on the fans. Where we were given to
believe he would return at the end of his six-month trek, we were suddenly presented with Terry Lester taking over
the role. While I can understand the coup of capturing an actor like Terry, there were many ways he could have
been written in without the loss of Mason. And we did lose Mason. Whether it's Terry's portrayal of Mason or just
the way he's being written now, this is not the Mason we loved so well. With Terry we've lost the vulnerability of
before, the suaveness of Mason and even moreso the passion that was inherent between Mason and Julia. ...
EDITOR: About the departure of Lane Davies: I don't recall the show ever promising fans they'd definitely re-hire
him after his trip around the world. I think SB would have welcomed him back if the role was open, if he was
interested and if both parties were able to come up with a mutually agreed contract. Davies' departure was never
a hiatus for a specific amount of time: he left the show of his own volition when his contract was up. SB was under
no obligation to keep the role (and storyline involving several other characters) in limbo. And when Lester became
available, SB would've been stupid not to sign him. Hey, that's showbiz. Letters to SON, Jan. 08, 1990
NEW! Best Game of Musical Chairs – Trading Places: Lane Davies made news by leaving his pivotal SANTA
BARBARA role of sexy, sardonic Mason Capwell. Terry Lester, Emmy-award nominee for his own major role as
sexy, sardonic Jack Abbott on the #1-rated YOUNG AND RESTLESS, made bigger news by taking over for
Davies. Insiders weren’t shocked – Lester was a logical choice for the black sheep of the Capwell family. What did
come as a surprise was the replacement for Lester: Peter Bergman, who had just been released from his long-
running role as nice guy Cliff on ALL MY CHILDREN. Bergman’s abrupt dismissal had stunned many in the
industry, and followed the decision not to continue the interracial love story of Cliff and Angie (Debbi Morgan, who
play Angie, remained on AMC). Many were please to see the well-liked Bergman land a plum role so soon after his
AMC termination. Best and Worst Off-Camera SOD Jan. 09, 1990
NEW! Special care was taken at SANTA BARBARA when it came time to replace Lane Davies as Mason Capwell.
“Mason is a very important character,” notes Jill Farren Phelps. It would have been dangerous to recast that role
with just anybody. With as solid as performer as Terry, you know he’ll bring his intelligence to it,” Lester
acknowledges that replacing Lane Davies “really raised the stakes” for him. Nonetheless, he was well aware of
the pitfalls. “You can’t be afraid to make it your own,” Lester points out. “You have to be brazen enough to take it
on, to say, ‘These are character traits to keep; these are personality traits to dismiss.’” Trade Secrets: Who’s That
Guy? (About recasting a popular role) SOD Feb. 6, 1990
My criticism of Healy’s arrival does not apply to the recasting of Terry Lester as Mason. Lane Davies is a great
actor! I thought his scenes with NANCY GRAHN, whatever their offscreen relationship was, had unmatched
intimacy and passion. I hope Lane finds success in feature films or on stage. However, I believe Terry Lester has
been a tremendous addition to the show. His Mason has warmth and emotional depth that should be more fully
exploited with Julia. Letter to SON Feb. 12, 1990.
...the most popular topic has been whether or not the new Mason (Terry Lester) can fill the old Mason's (Lane
Davies) shoes. We've received plenty of vehement opinions from fans on both sides, but the die-hard Davies' fans
make up the majority. SOW Mail Call, February 27, 1990
The audience was vehemently divided when Davies left the show (his choice) and was replaced by the very
popular Terry Lester (ex-Jack, The Young and the Restless). Although one misses the brooding, Heathcliff
qualities Davies brought to the role, Lester is a smash in the comedy department. Lester also has Mason's little
boy desperation down pat, and the Jack Abbott-patented mannerisms are thankfully going by the wayside.
(Remember, people, Days' Mary Beth Evans and Drake Hogestyn were not the original Kayla and Roman Brady.
And the list of replacements actors goes on and on.) Madness, Mirth, and Mason, SOW Feb. 27, 1990
In the light of the controversy surrounding the recasting of Mason Capwell on SB (certainly a thankless task), I've
got a question…why did SB bother to recast the role if they didn't intend to preserve the character? The truth is it's
impossible to tell if Terry Lester is capable of playing Mason because the writers haven’t written Mason since he
arrived.
How has he changed? Mason was troubled but brilliant. The “new” Mason is stupid-he allows himself to be
blackmailed not just once, but twice, by that bimbo Sasha. He gets mixed up in mob activities. He expects Julia
[NANCY GRAHN] to be dumb enough to not notice any of it. Give us a break. Even when Mason was insane, he
wasn't an idiot.
Mason was the most articulate creature on the planet. Suddenly he has forgotten every word Shakespeare wrote,
not to mention the rest of the great literature he could spout at slightest provocation. What did he have? A
lobotomy?
Mason was a creative, inventive lawyer. True, as a Capwell he probably doesn’t need to work for a living, but
Mason always did, and brilliantly. The “new” Mason hasn't cracked a lawbook for five months.
Despite his inherent deviousness, Mason was essentially a good, loving man. His worst deeds were backed by
the best intentions. We believed he loved Julia and Samantha more than life. Who could believe that of the
insensitive jerk SB is giving us now?
So what is SB thinking in transforming its best character? Does it honestly believe this is what the viewers want to
see? Does it think Terry Lester can’t handle the real thing? Is it afraid that Lester wouldn't bear up well in the
inevitable comparisons with Lane Davies that would result if it wrote the “real” Mason? I read that the writers
wanted to write for the new actor’s strengths, but what’s the logic in that when the character disappears? Sign Me
Curious.
EDITOR: …The “old” Mason was, indeed, a wonderful and memorable character, but I think SB was wise to alter
him somewhat to allow for the differences between Davies and Lester. Letters to SON April 9, 1990
VIEWER 1: The big ratings dip came when two share points-worth of viewers fled because they couldn't bear to
watch SB transform the tragically complex hero Mason Capwell [ex-Lane Davies, now Terry Lester] into a scenery-
chewing buffoon. They never came back, and why should they?
VIEWER 2: I think you missed an important point in your response to "Sign Me Curious" and her plea for the "Old"
Mason Capwell to return to SB [SONow! April 9]. I agree with the writer that the Sasha [ex-Michelle Nicastro]
storyline was implausible, however I never doubted Mason's love for Julia and Samantha, just the writers'
understanding of the two characters. I feel Terry Lester should have the opportunity to make the role his own, but
your response implies that it is casting against type to expect that Mason remain a lawyer. Whether the character
quotes Shakespeare or can summon up the words to IF or the lyrics to Cole Porter is an interesting but not
indispensable part of the character. That he appear in the courtroom is...
I did not expect Mr. Lester to imitate Lane Davies, but if the fact that we have yet to see him in the courtroom has
anything to do with the actor's desire not to play one, then why take over an existing role?
I am anxious to see Mason and Julia return to their legal sparring. The law serves as a focal point for their
divergent views and is an integral part of their life and their relationship. Terry Lester has certainly opened the
character and has brought warmth, romance, charm and maturity to Mason. He and Ms. Grahn have established
incredible chemistry in a very short time and I especially like his scenes with Samantha. I can now understand
what Julia saw in Mason besides his willingness to father her child.
I realize many viewers still have not accepted Mr. Lester in this role. However, he has become Mason in my mind,
albeit a different one, but brilliant in his own way. Letters to SON, April 30, 1990
VIEWER: Bring back Lane Davies to SANTA BARBARA! Although his replacement, Terry Lester, is a fine actor,
his talent is being wasted on the role of Mason Capwell, a character so uniquely created by Lane. This became
glaringly evident during the storyline dealing with Mason and Julia’s [Nancy Grahn] marital problems. Only Davies
is capable of portraying both the comic and tragic elements of Mason in his drunken episodes. Terry converted
the character into a pathetic drunk. Lane was able to evoke sympathy from the viewers, but his complex, Hamlet-
like nature gave us something to ponder. Where is the bitter, sardonic tone softened with pleas for acceptance
from his father? We miss the elegance soliloquies blending attorney-ses with Shakespeare, with a little Tennyson
thrown in. Lane Davies created an ever-intriguing character. We miss his performances. Letter to SOD, May 01,
1990
VIEWER: Many times you've suggested "sampling" a new soap when your current one becomes unbearable.
Several weeks ago I begun to sample Santa Barbara. It's so fantastic...
I also like the hilarious antics of Julia [Nancy Grahn] and Mason. Terry Lester does such a good job in the role. I
can't understand why people don't like him.
EDITOR: I agree that Terry Lester's doing a bang-up job with Mason-better all the time, in fact-but he's still got
quite a selling job to do to win over some Lane Davies fans. That might be hard for someone who didn't know the
"old" Mason to understand. Letter to SON, June 04, 1990
NEW! Last month, Terry Lester stunned the soap world when he quit to pursue work elsewhere. At the time, the
show was in the middle of a hot divorce story for Mason and Julia (Nancy Grahn).
At first, it appeared that Lane Davies – Terry’s predecessor in the role – might return, and a source at the show
admitted, “It’s a definite possibility. We’re not ruling anything out.” Ultimately, however, Lane wasn’t ready to be
lured back to daytime, so SB had to find another high-profile replacement fast. When the producers heard that
Gordon Thomson was available, they felt he’d be perfect as Mason and waived the screen test requirement on the
basis of his six-year track record as DYNASTY’s Adam Carrington. Adam, after all, was a wealthy scoundrel, a
black sheep who blamed everyone else for his problems – in other words, a character not so different from Mason.
Gordon Thomson Joins the Capwell Dynasty SOD Nov. 27, 1990
NEW! Still, Lester readily admits he was nervous about following in the footsteps of Lane Davies, who created
one of the most unique characters on daytime. "I certainly had fears about it, which I think is only natural," he
explains. "Lane Davies is a wonderful actor and I knew that my characterization was going to be very different from
his. I was concerned about whether or not it was going to be accepted."
How did SB fans react to the new Mason? Lester laughs and responds in a bemused tone, "There was a
progression. At first, there were people who were supportive just because they loved the show; then there were
people who were sorry to see me arrive and wished that I would go away; and there were people who began to
watch the show because they were aware of me. Most of them have written to say, 'Thank you for introducing me
to SANTA BARBARA. I had no idea there was anything like this on TV.'"
Luckily for Lester, the naysayers have retreated. "I got a couple of nasty letters at the beginning. Then they either
quit watching or changed their minds or died, I don't know, but I haven't heard from them in a while. The people I
hear from now are very supportive," Lester observes, adding, "I'm sure I still have my detractors out there, but they
have the grace not to write and tell me about it." No Guts, No Glory, Interview of Terry Lester SOD Oct. 02, 1990
...One thing's for sure, we miss his snide remarks and Shakespearean monologues, not too mention that cute
smirk! Inside Hollywood, DTV, Aug. 1990
NEW! With Terry gone, rumors immediately began flying that Lane Davies would return to the role. SB maintained
that they were interviewing a sizable number of actors as possible Masons, but confirmed that Lane's
reappearance was a valid possibility. (At press time, it's no secret that the show has to find a new Mason fast. An
upcoming November's "sweeps" story hinges on Mason's raging alcoholism and his bitter, angry divorce from his
wife, Julia.)
Meanwhile, there's an interesting side-note to the whole Mason Capwell casting situation: despite all the setside
uproar, Terry Lester and Lane Davies are actually friends offscreen - and Terry would be delighted if Lane came
back to SB to reclaim his role. Late Breaking News - Terry Lester Quits SOD Nov. 12, 1990
NEW! But I feel the Dobsons officially engraved announcement of their return came a week later with the multi-
episode Capwell dinner party scene. Mason took his just-out-of-the-mental-hospital mother Pamela (an original
Dobson character, played again by Marj Dusay) to a Capwell family dinner party, where he proceeded to put all
the Capwell “on trial” for their past emotional crimes.
Suddenly, there he was, the real Mason, who had somehow got lost these last three years: witty, cutting,
sardonic, literate, with the trademark asides. But most importantly, beneath all the venom, this real Mason again
showed himself to be shatteringly vulnerable. Mason Capwell is as close to Hamlet or Macbeth as daytime is ever
going to get. Now the professional Marlena isn’t about to get dragged into the debate as to which of the three
actors who have played Mason (Lane Davies, Terry Lester, Gordon Thomson) has been the best. Each has done
a fine job. The bottom line is that the “real” Mason is the one written by the “real” writers of SB. And you know
who they are.
But if we can’t have the absolutely divine Davies…then we’re fortunate to have Thomson. In Thomson, the
Dobsons have an actor eerily capable of playing their Mason. He has the crisp diction and swift delivery needed
for their sophisticated, often literate lines. And, as he proved when he played Adam Carrington on Dynasty,
Thomson is adept at playing dark characters. My only very minor quibble with the fortysomething Thomson is that
he’s a tad too old for the role. Am I hallucinating, or do Thomson and Judith McConnell (who plays Mason’s
stepmother, Sophia) look about the same age? Critical Opinion – On Second Thought…SOW April 1991
NEW! Before Thomson’s hiring, Davies was approached by SB to return as Mason, but he declined. “It just wasn’t
the right time,” the actor says. “The last offer was very handsome but, in the final analysis, my little voice told me
not to do it. I didn’t turn it down with absolutely no regrets – part of me was pulled back.” Lane Davies Grapples
with GOOD AND EVIL SOD Oct. 01, 1991
NEW! I think that SANTA BARBARA has finally cast the perfect Mason Capwell. Gordon Thomson is wonderful
and very believable as the poor little rich boy who’s trying to find his place in this cruel world. Bravo, I hope
Gordon stays for a long time. Sounding Board SOD Oct. 15, 1991
NEW! "It was from [a woman from] from Chicago. She said, 'You ruined my favorite show and my favorite
character. In no way, shape or form could you possibly live up to their [past] excellent performances.' She sent this
with no return address. Out of all the mail I've received, this has been the only absolutely negative letter to date."
Roundup: Gordon Thomson SOD Oct. 15, 1991
NEW! [Justin] Dea's replacement, John Novak, proved a lukewarm successor. "I liked John. We worked well
together, but he had no soap opera background or following," [Robin] Mattson declares. " I think SB would be
better off going with someone who's a strong, known commodity. When Lane Davies (ex-Mason) left, they brought
in Terry Lester, then Gordon Thomson - actors who had their own mark." Will SB lose Robin Mattson Next Month?
SOD Oct. 29, 1991
NEW! Every couple of months, I'll [Lane Davies] click on SANTA BARBARA to see who's working and what's
happening with it, but I haven't sat down and watched an entire episode. I think it's unfortunate what happened
with Terry Lester, because I have great respect for his work (we have plans for a project in the future together).
One of the reasons that I left the show, besides just mental heath, was that I thought the character of Mason had
been homogenized, that the writers at that time had lost touch with who Mason really was and what drove him.
The character had become uninteresting to play. Nobody really warned Terry, so Terry didn't know to protect
Mason from the increasing homogenization. He was becoming domestic as opposed to an active character--
making trouble and making things happen. The character became increasingly more reactive and helpless to the
situations around him.
As for returning to SANTA BARBARA, I never say never, but I think the Dobsons are perfectly happy with Gordon
Thomson, and Gordon seems willing to be there for some time. But never say never...at this time next year, we
may be talking about Mason again. Never Say Never 1991
NEW! …and while Gordon Thomson has grown into a magnificent Mason, without Lane Davies’s sardonic wit,
there’s an element of levity missing from Julia and Mason’s angst-ridden relationship. In fact, SB seems to have all
be given up on the Mason-in-heaven type of humor it was known for in its cult heyday. Opinion: Santa Barbara – A
Class Act SOD March 17, 1992
Lane Davies (Mason) was absolutely perfect,” says [Charles] Pratt. “It was that blend he had. Like no other
Mason, he had that perfect Scrooge blend of cynicism and pessimism and that bah, humbug attitude.” Have
Yourself a Very Merry Santa Barbara Christmas, SOW 1992
NEW! Of course, she’ll [Nancy Grahn] never forget Mason – all three of him. “I loved the entire storyline with Lane
Davies,” she observes. It was a very modern, unsoaplike, funny story. Lane made it different, because he was
very sparing in the amount of love that he showed. But when he did show it, it was powerful. Terry Lester was
more loving, and Mason and Julia became more comfortable with each other. Gordon Thomson took it to a more
serious vein. He brought back a little danger.” SOD Jan. 19, 1993
NEW! But let us return, if for but a paragraph or two, to those days of Camelot, when the President and
Jackie…woops, I mean Mason Capwell (as played by Lane “the divine” Davies), ruled and was most nasty and
acerbic. My love Mason had the wonderful habit of making Shakespearean asides or stepping out of the frame to
make comments on the show’s action. Santa Barbara: A Spot Like Camelot? SOW Nov. 09, 1993