15 most controversial storylines in daily soaps that shocked fans

Daily soaps are known for their intricate plotlines. However, there have been times when certain plotlines have brought forth controversial reviews from the viewers. We know soap operas thrive on drama to keep the viewers engaged. Many times certain storylines push the boundaries of acceptability. It leaves the readers reeling with negative opinions.

These moments often delve into sensitive issues or taboo subjects of society that provoke debate. From extramarital affairs to supernatural elements these controversial storylines ignite outrage among the viewers. However, as the shows have been going on for decades societal opinions have also evolved with time. The acceptability and welcoming nature of the viewers have made them more understandable.

This was not the case when these were released initially. The difference in timeline produces differences in opinions. Hence we should also consider the timeline when it was considered controversial before judging. These storylines highlight the power of television. So, let’s delve into the 15 most controversial storylines in daily soaps that shocked fans.

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1) Marie and Mark’s story

Marie Horton and Dr. Mark Brooks’s storyline in Days of Our Lives has often been pointed out for its controversial nature. They fell in love with each other but things took an unexpected turn.

Mark’s true identity was revealed. Mark was Marie’s brother who was presumed to be dead. This revelation was a significant distressful moment in Marie’s life. The controversy was because of the taboo nature of their relationship which further led to complications.

2) Chad and Whitney’s story

It was a major source of controversy when a subtle hint was given that maybe Chad and Whitney, in the beloved soap opera, Passions could be related. It was hinted that Chad could be Whitney’s half-brother which made their relationship further complicated.

However, despite knowing they might be related, they did not stop their relationship. Chad was supposed to be Eve and Julian’s son. These themes of deception and complicated storylines were entertaining for the viewers hooked throughout.

3) Bridget and Ridge’s story

In The Bold and The Beautiful, viewers have often witnessed controversial themes to be delved into. It adds to the overall intense plotline that The Bold and The Beautiful had going on. However, Bridget and Ridge’s story was indeed one of the most controversial ones.

When considering Bridget’s mother, Brooke’s on-and-off relationship with Ridge it was not a good look according to many fans. However, Ridge’s true identity which was later revealed ended the controversy a bit. Ridge was revealed to be a Marone and not a Forrester.

4) Mimi’s pregnancy

In Days of Our Lives, Mimi found out she was pregnant with Rex’s child. Things took an unexpected turn after the news. She understood that she was not ready to be a mother yet and so she decided to get an abortion.

The topic of abortion was a controversial issue and it enraged many fans. Many critics argued about the show’s portrayal of reinforced harmful stereotypes and abortion stigma especially when we consider what happened to Mimi after her abortion.

5) Sami, EJ, and Lucas

In Days of Our Lives, Sami and EJ had a controversial moment. It was not taken well by the viewers of the show. EJ made a deal with Sami in exchange for saving Lucas’s life.

Later as he was supposed to fulfill his end of the deal, he changed his mind and manipulated Sami. The sexual encounter between Sami and EJ was considered as rape and was later acknowledged by the show as well.

6) Franco’s nature

In General Hospital a controversial character that made a strong impression on the viewers was Franco. Played by James Franco, Franco was disturbed and dangerous. He was a serial killer and caused significant harm to the other characters in the show.

However, his character arc was redeemed. It was shown that he was doing the things he did because of the brain tumor. Many viewers were disappointed with this storyline. It became a controversial topic among the fans of General Hospital.

7) Will and Sonny

It is undeniable that the world has changed dramatically over the years. What seemed taboo back in the day has become normalized and welcomed with the people becoming more aware and progressive. Will and Sonny’s relationship in Days of Our Lives when introduced was a controversial topic.

Days of Our Lives has been airing for decades, and much has changed over time. The controversy died down and now Will and Sonny’s relationship has become one of the best ones in the series and rightfully so. Their historic wedding became a prominent romance in soap opera history.

8) Makeup in The Young and the Restless

Tyrone’s character in The Young and The Restless became a part of the controversial issue among the fans. For his plan to infiltrate the organization, he used makeup to disguise himself as a white man. The time when this was released it created negative reactions from the viewers.

It was considered as racially insensitive. The show was criticized for the lack of minority representation as well by the viewers. It is important to consider the timeline of this controversy. The time it was released it was completely different than the time we have now.

9) The time when Marlena was possessed

Days Of Our Lives is inherently a soap opera. A soap opera that deals with dramatic storylines revolving around family feuds, romantic relationships, and amenities. However, there were several moments when Days of Our Lives dipped its toe into the world of the supernatural.

When we consider Marlena’s possession by the devil, she has done several heinous things under the grip of the devil. However, many viewers considered Marlena’s possession to be unrealistic and even outlandish.

Though many viewers have loved the change of storylines, her possession received numerous negative reviews from long-time fans of the viewers of Days of Our Lives.

10) Billy and Mackenzie’s relationship

In The Young and The Restless, a controversy arose when it was revealed that Billy and Mackenzie may be related biologically. Billy and Mackenzie got married just before this controversial revelation was made in the show.

The story was a shock to the viewers. This revelation altered their lives and caused significant emotional turmoil. This fallout eventually shaped Billy's character. Though it was later revealed that they were not related, the damage had been done.

11)Holly’s drug addiction

Drug abuse has always been a controversial topic no matter when it is shown. In Emmerdale, Holly’s drug issue slowly became a controversial topic for the viewers of the series.

The storyline portrayed the harsh realities of drug addiction. Her death was portrayed in an unflinching manner which remained with the viewers for a long time. It made a lasting impact and became a topic of controversy for many viewers.

12)Bethany’s story

Nathan Curtis exploited Bethany in Coronation Street. This storyline has been a controversial topic because of the impactful nature of the depiction. Bethany’s struggles resonated with many viewers which raised a controversy.

The storyline garnered public discussion and remained controversial until Nathan was served and received jail time. The storyline was handled responsibly by Coronation Street.

13)Aaron’s abuse

Emmerdale has been one of the pioneers in bringing forth sensitive issues to public exposure to bring forth awareness among the viewers. Aaron’s abuse from a very young age was a sensitive issue. Initially, it was a source of public controversy.

The long-term effects of abuse were shown in the series. It aimed to bring forth the devastating impact abuse can have and the story of the survivors. Such storylines have always been controversial but become significant for their depiction and awareness. It sheds light on the often hidden reality.

14)Kristy and Tyrone’s relationship in Coronation Street

Domestic abuse has always been a controversial topic. The domestic abuse storyline of Kristy and Tyrone brought forth immense attention from the viewers. The traditional challenges faced by domestic abuse were portrayed in this storyline. However, in this case, Kristy was the abuser.

The reversal of the role was a source of immense controversy among the viewers at that time. However, it brought forth an awareness as well. Kristy’s change in behavior from subtle control to physical violence left a lasting impact.

15)Luke’s rape in Hollyoaks

The storyline involving Luke’s rape has had controversial opinions from the viewers. He was raped by Mark Gibbs. The storyline aimed to address the often-overlooked issue of male sexual assault.

The trauma and long-lasting impact of the assault that Luke faced has been depicted in this storyline. However, many viewers have also praised the spread of awareness through this narrative and have said that it was handled with responsibility.

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