Have no fear, Passions fans, the majority of its cast members are remaining with the soap when it makes the leap from NBC to DIRECTV's channel The 101 on September 17. NBC Universal Television Studio announced the following actors will continue with the series: Eric Martsolf (Ethan), Ben Masters (Julian), Kim Johnston Ulrich (Ivy), Dylan Fergus (Noah), Galen Gering (Luis), Emily Harper (Fancy), Lindsay Hartley (Theresa), Liza Huber (Gwen), James Hyde (Sam), Juliet Mills (Tabitha), Heidi Mueller (Kay), Tracey Ross (Eve), Eva Tamargo (Pilar), McKenzie Westmore (Sheridan) and Erin Cardillo (Esme). Look for any further additions to be announced, but I do know that Silvana Arias, who plays Paloma, will not be crossing over in September.

Annamarie Kostura, vice-presdent Daytime, NBC Universal, says: "We are thrilled that the principal cast members will continue on the show. It is important that the fans know that the show will still be the same after the move."

Patty Ishimoto, general manager, DIRECTV Entertainment adds: "This is great news for fans of the show, who will be able to seamlessly join their favourite characters for new adventures on The 101. We're excited about the news and are busy getting ready to welcome Passions to its new home on DIRECTV."

If you do not have DIRECTV and would like to order it in time for Passions, call 1-888-999-0433. All Passions viewers will receive free standard installation up to a four-room system, free DVR or HD receiver upgrade, a free portable DVD player and US$100 cash back. Restrictions may apply, so call for complete details.

SOAPnet has once again jumped into the reality-TV arena with The Fashionista Diaries, which premieres August 1 at 9 p.m. The cameras follow six assistants as they try to claw their way to the top of the competitive fashion, beauty and publishing industries.

The assistants will work at Jane magazine, Estée Lauder Companies, Flirt Cosmetics and Seventh House PR, and will team up on Charlotte Ronson's fashion show and afterparty during New York's Fall Fashion Week 2007, which is the fashion industry's biggest event.

Congratulations to Sydney Penny (Julia, AMC) and husband Rob Powers, who gave birth to their son Chasen August Powers, on May 31.