In the mid-1980s, CBS was searching for a new daytime drama to replace Capitol, which had struggled in the ratings. Several writers and producers were approached with proposals. Paul Rauch developed a concept titled Grosse Pointe, while former CBS Daytime president Michael Brockman asked acclaimed writer Claire Labine to create a new serial. Labine’s project, Celebration, ultimately never made it to air.

The idea that would finally take hold came from legendary soap opera creator William J. Bell. His new series, initially titled Rags, focused on wealth, power, ambition, and romance within the glamorous world of fashion. That concept soon evolved into The Bold and the Beautiful, a show destined to redefine daytime television…