Tom’s Struggle Pays Off!

Katie’s emotional roller coaster on THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL gave portrayer Heather Tom an embarrassment of riches when it came time to choose what to submit for Emmy consideration. So what did she finally decide on? “I submitted the shows where Katie left baby Will the first time in the midst of her post partum depression,” she reveals.

Because B&B is a half-hour, they’re allowed to submit two episodes as opposed to the hour-long soaps. “I submitted back-to-back shows,” Tom explains. “I still almost did just one episode, but the episode before was short. Casey [Kasprzyk, a producer at B&B] was the one who suggested I consider including the show before which sets it up. I’ve always felt that it’s difficult to find that one episode that’s going to encompass your entire year.”

Tom is thrilled for fellow Lead Actress nominee Susan Flannery (ex-Stephanie) and Supporting Actress hopeful Katherine Kelly Lang (Brooke). “I’m so happy for Kelly,” she enthuses. “It’s fantastic.” Of course, there were some omissions, as far as she’s concerned. “I thought Don [Diamont, Bill] did some really nice stuff,” Tom says. “It was well-written and told a story. I’m surprised Laura Wright (Carly, GENERAL HOSPITAL) didn’t get nominated.”

Now it’s time for the actress to get in fighting form for the ceremony where she’ll see if she can bring home another trophy matching the one she received last year! “I have seven pounds to lose before June!” Tom laughs. “The fun part for me is getting on the treadmill, hiking and biking. Then, I’ll think about what I’m going to wear. I had such a great time last year. I’m really excited that HLN is [broadcasting] it again. I’m looking forward to a fun night!”