‘Beyond the Gates’: CBS Daytime Soap Opera Adds 7 Cast Members

As a seasoned film enthusiast with a penchant for daytime soaps and a soft spot for diverse storytelling, I can’t help but feel a thrill of anticipation upon hearing the new cast additions to CBS’s “Beyond the Gates.” The lineup is nothing short of impressive, boasting an array of talented actors with rich backgrounds in both television and film.


CBS has set the final new cast members for its upcoming daytime soap opera “Beyond the Gates.”

Renowned actor Clifton Davis, who has been nominated for both Tony Awards and Grammys (known for “Madam Secretary” and “Godfather of Harlem”), has joined the cast, along with Alex Alegria (“CSI,” “Gossip Girl”), Lauren Buglioli (“Bad Monkey,” “Florida Man”), Ben Gavin (“Super 8,” “The Dark Tower”), Jibre Hordges (“Grown-ish,” “9-1-1”), Jen Jacob (“The Union,” “Law & Order: Organized Crime”), and Mike Manning (“The Bay,” “Days of Our Lives”).

Full character descriptions can be found below.

The fresh newcomers will join the already announced actors including Tamara Tunie, Daphnee Duplaix, Karla Mosley, Brandon Claybon, Timon Kyle Durrett, Sean Freeman, Marquita Goings, Maurice Johnson, Trisha Mann-Grant, RhonniRose Mantilla, Ambyr Michelle, Colby Muhammad and Arielle Prepetit.

Originally slated for a series run by CBS in April, the drama titled “Beyond the Gates” had been in development through CBS Studios’ collaborative agreement with the NAACP. Production is set to commence in November, with its debut scheduled for early 2025.

The show’s official logline states:

The drama ‘Beyond the Gates’ unfolds in a tranquil Maryland suburb near Washington, D.C., within one of the wealthiest African American counties in America. This area boasts an exclusive gated community, characterized by serene, winding roads lined with towering trees and opulent mansions. At its heart are the influential and illustrious Dupree family, who epitomize Black aristocracy. However, beneath their immaculate facade and well-tended gardens hide tantalizing mysteries and scandals yet to be revealed. The neighbors on the outside keep a keen eye on this enclave, as it’s where our characters reside, engage in love, work, and play. Within these walls live those who have achieved success and those still striving for it, all attempting to maneuver through life, with some demonstrating more finesse than others.

The show titled ‘Beyond the Gates’ was developed by Michele Val Jean, who not only acts as executive producer but also oversees its production. Sheila Ducksworth from CBS Studios/NAACP Venture is among the executive producers, along with Robert Guza Jr., Julie Carruthers, Leon W. Russell, Derrick Johnson, Kimberly Doebereiner, and Anna Saalfeld. This series is jointly produced with P&G Studios, a branch of Procter & Gamble.

Character Descriptions

In this production, Clifton Davis portrays Vernon Dupree, the head of the Dupree family who is married to Anita (Tunie) and is the father of Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson (Duplaix) and Dani Dupree (Mosley). A respected former senator, Vernon is known for his kindness, modesty, and willingness to share his wisdom and experience. Now out of office, Vernon was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement.

-Jibre Hordges takes on the role of Jacob Hawthorne, who is married to Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne (Prepetit) and serves as a detective specializing in robbery and homicide within the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington D.C. Originating from a lineage dedicated to law enforcement, Jacob takes immense pride in his family, his community, and his work, which entails upholding justice for victims.

I, Mike Manning, portray Bradley “Smitty” Smith, the loving spouse of Congressman Martin Richardson (Claybon) and devoted father to teenagers Tyrell and Samantha. Having transitioned from a political journalist to a stay-at-home dad, Smitty is an exceptional parent, nurturing our children with affection and laughter. I’m considering rekindling my writing career but find it challenging to reveal this ambition to Martin, as he cherishes our tranquil home life.

-Jen Jacob plays Ashley Morgan, the closest friend of Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne, who’s the only child raised by a young single mom. Growing up on her own, Ashley has always been ready to take on challenges, showing no fear when it comes to getting things done. She works as a nurse at Garland Memorial Hospital in Washington D.C., fitting the role perfectly with her sunny disposition, optimism, efficiency, resourcefulness, and self-reliance. Although she can be serious when needed, Ashley is also known for her infectious laughter that brightens any room.

In this drama, Ben Gavin portrays Derek Baldwin, a dedicated firefighter who’s in love with Ashley Morgan (Jacob) and close friends with Jacob Hawthorne (Hordges). Derek is brazen, unrestrained, and enters a focused state when battling flames – it seems more like a deeply personal mission to him than merely a job. Derek’s skills are incredibly versatile, making him able to mend almost anything.

-In this story, Lauren Bugliogli plays the role of Vanessa McBride, who runs an exclusive real estate firm focusing on luxury properties and lives next to Dani Dupree. She maintains a close friendship with Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson. Vanessa is a mother of twins and is unhappily married to her high school sweetheart.

-In the role of Tomas “Tom” Navarro, a charming and self-assured up-and-coming lawyer working under Bill Hamilton (Durrett), Alex Alegria finds himself drawn to Katherine “Kat” Richardson (Muhammad).

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2024-10-29 19:17