One Life to Live has finalized its decision to bring Kelly Cramer back to the show's canvas. However, the show has ultimately decided to recast the role rather than bring back the fan-favorite actress who had become known for the part.
Former The and Bold the Beautiful contract player Tracy Lindsey Melchior (Kristen Forrester) has been tapped to assume the role of Dorian's niece beginning later this summer. Melchior appeared on CBS's The Bold and the Beautiful from June 2001 through September 2002 before being dropped to recurring status. Melchior's most recent B&B appearance was in January 2003. She has also appeared on Sunset Beach and Days of our Lives.
The move to recast Kelly may come as a disappointment to One Life to Live fans. From 1995 through January 2002, the role of Kelly was played by actress Gina Tognoni. Tognoni opted not to renew her contract when it expired in July 2001, but agreed to stick around for a few additional months while the writers wrapped up her character's storyline. Since leaving One Life to Live, Tognoni has kept a relatively low profile. In April 2003, Tognoni appeared in an episode of the FOX series, "Fastlane."
A spokesperson for Tognoni confirms that the actress was approached to return to the show, but negotiations "did not work out."
A first airdate has not been announced for Melchior, however, the actress is expected to debut in late July or early August.