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Michael Nader's Special Message to AMC Fans (SOD 9/21/99)
"There's been quite a fan outcry since All My Children announced that Michael Nader would exit the role of Dimitri. Nader's many devotees have made their voices heard via e-mail, letters, and petitions, but Nader hasn't commented- until now. His message to fans? Thank you.
'It's been a very supportive
atmosphere, to say the least,' says Nader, who recently moved from New York to L.A. He
appreciates the "very, very intelligently written letters supporting my work. They
said, 'We don't understand how someone of your stature on the show could be thought of as
something the public doesn't care about", relates Nader. 'The idea of even replacing
Dimitri with another actor- that was a rumor- was so ludicrous to them. They've just been
howling- howling at the wind.'
Nader confirms that it was not his idea to depart Pine Valley after eight years. 'It was not a mutual decision. Disney and ABC chose- in I think a monetary-based decision- to let a well-paid actor go and fill that storyline with actors who they could get for a lot less bucks. In support of ABC, that's what they have to do. What they're sacrificing is what makes the show exciting for the audience: the characters they've grown to care for. It's a double-edged sword. I understand Disney's need to cut costs. But at the same time, some of the letters say, "What are you cutting? ...You get what you pay for."'
Ironically, Nader's dramatic exit has showcased his talen and his sizzling chemistry with Finola Hughes (Alexandra). 'It was fun working with her,' smiles Nader. 'The real gift of having to leave was the absolutely well-conceived and well-written [story]. It was good material.'
An AMC insider says viewers may not have seen the last of Dimitri, but an AMC spokesperson prefers not to comment on that, 'We wish Michael Nader all the best,' says the rep."
