Getting to know Daphnee Duplaix Samuel

On Thursday, December 16 Daphnee Duplaix Samuel debuts on "Passions" as Valerie Davis, Chad's beautiful new assistant. Valerie is smart and sexy, and determined to take Chad's mind off his recent troubles. Read on to learn more about Daphnee, the stunning woman behind this new addition to the Harmony scene.

How did the role of Valerie come about for you?
It was originally only supposed to be five episodes with possible recurring down the line. At the same time, I was testing for another soap. The other soap had me on hold for two weeks. When "Passions" called to book me for the five days, my agent said I was testing for the other show the next week and they might lose me. "Passions" called back within minutes and said they'd give me a contract.

What did they tell you about the role when you first auditioned?
I didn't get too much more. I think they are still playing with where she is going. It will be interesting to see what they come up with.

How would you describe Valerie?
She knows what she wants and will go after it. She's ambitious. I think there's something underlying to her actions--that there might be other motives for what she's doing. I can't wait to find out more about her.

Were you familiar with "Passions" when you got the part?
I had worked on "Passions" about four years ago for a month as one of Gwen's sorority sisters. I knew a little of the back story from that.

Were you nervous on your first day?
Surprisingly, I wasn't. I usually am nervous for whatever job I'm starting I get butterflies in my stomach. It was strange because I went to get flowers for Jackie (Briskey, Casting Director) as a "thank you." As I was walking out of the florist, she said, "Don't be scared." I hadn't said a word to the woman! I took that as a sign that I shouldn't be scared.

Was there anyone particular welcoming on your first day?
Charles (Divins, Chad) was great. He went over the scenes with me a few times until we were both comfortable. I'd have to say he was the most giving.

Will you be watching the air show of your first day?
Of course! Normally, whenever I have a show I never tell anyone about it until the repeats are on so I can see it first. Luckily, Charles always tapes his scenes so I asked if I could watch. Since I was able to see it already, I know I did a good job! I was happy with it.

If you were pulling the strings, what would you like to see happen with Valerie?
The bad girl is always more fun to play, so I'd like to see some catfights with Whitney!

What was your acting experience before coming to "Passions"?
I've mostly done primetime, mostly comedy. I love dramas but for some reason I'm usually hired for comedies.

In addition to your busy acting career, you also serve as creative director for Unleashed Magazine. Can you talk about that?
It's my husband's magazine. It's a men's lifestyle magazine-along the lines of an urban GQ or Esquire. We started it about four years ago. It's been an amazing progression. I'm going to be leaving shortly because I have so much on my plate. It's been a great creative outlet for me and obviously if he needs me I'm there. Acting is my first passion. Eventually I want to write and produce. The entertainment business is where I want to plant my seeds and grow.