HOLLYWOOD—This week’s leading ladies gold standard goes to two beautiful actresses who are fan favorites for good reason. Katherine Kelly Lang, who portrays Brooke Logan Forrester on “The Bold and the Beautiful” and Maura West, who recently was cast in the role of Diane Jenkins on “The Young and the Restless” both manage to take our breath away. Not only are these two ladies extraordinarily beautiful, but they are exceptional actresses. Lang is involved in a highly emotional and groundbreaking storyline about Stephanie’s cancer diagnosis and West is already stirring up trouble, just five days into her appearance as the devious diva of Genoa City. Both actresses are more exciting to watch than ever before.

Katherine Kelly Lang is incredible as the meddling daughter-in-law, Brooke. Stephanie’s cancer diagnosis came to Brooke’s attention by accident. However, it’s been no accident that Bradley P. Bell, the show’s Emmy-winning head writer and executive producer, put these two ladies in a very shocking storyline. Lang makes viewers empathize with Brooke’s desire to save her evil mother-in-law’s life, while trying to keep her secret and maintain a healthy relationship with her husband and children.

Bradley’s choices for the character of Brooke have not been wrong yet. Fans can expect Brooke to become aware of things she’s never had to face before. This dramatic journey is exciting and fun to watch.

When “As The World Turns” went off the air at the end of summer, we all knew two-time Emmy-winner Maura West would find a job. Thankfully our brilliant Bel Air Writer, Maria Arena Bell had the sense to pick this actress up and hire her for the exciting role of Diane Jenkins. I’ve been a fan of all of the actresses who have played her in the past, but West offers a fresh and even more exciting approach to the character.

Maura worked opposite all of “Y&R’s” great veteran actors this week. From Melody Thomas Scott, to Eric Braeden, then to Peter Bergman, she handled them all with everything she has got. She’s filled with acting gifts, and her head writer and executive producer is also possessed of talent and beauty. This is going to be an exciting fall.

“Y&R” and “B&B” both air on CBS weekdays.

Photographs are Courtesy: Katherine Kelly Lang by Gilles Toucas, Bell Phillip Television Productions and Maura West by JPI Studios© West Hollywood