Actor's Dream: Soap Opera Role & Long-Distance Love

Actor Mike Manning describes his recent move to Atlanta for the soap opera "Beyond the Gates" as a "wild ride," marked by both professional fulfillment and personal challenges.

Manning is currently navigating a long-distance relationship with his husband, as he resides in Atlanta while his husband and their two dogs remain in Los Angeles. He plans to reunite with his family in the coming years, aiming for them to move to Atlanta.

The actor expresses his admiration for southern hospitality, noting the genuine kindness of people and the abundance of delicious food in his new city. He has found "aggressive kindness" to be the norm and enjoys the culinary scene.

Manning finds his role on "Beyond the Gates" particularly rewarding. He highlights the show as the first brand-new soap opera in 25 years and the first hour-long soap to center around a Black family from its inception, showcasing Black excellence. The show's unprecedented 15 Daytime Emmy nominations in its inaugural year are a testament to its success.

He praises the show's creator and executive producers for their intentionality in creating a program that serves an underserved community of soap opera fans. Manning feels the show's success, both in ratings and critical reception, is a "dream come true" for all involved.