Annika Noelle Explains Hope’s Love for Douglas on B&B (EXCLUSIVE)

Though not all fans (or Liam, for that matter) thought it was wise for THE BOLD & THE BEAUTIFUL’s Hope to share custody of Douglas with Thomas, her portrayer, Annika Noelle, told Soaps In Depth she thought the move was totally in keeping with who her character is. “She saw a lot of unstable, dangerous behavior [in Thomas],” said Noelle, “and the effects it had on Douglas. Hope never fell in love with Thomas, but she did fall in love with his son and wanted to protect him. Getting custody was a way to ensure she would always be able to do that.”

At the time of her decision to adopt the little boy, Hope was also in a committed relationship with Liam, who is related to Douglas. “Caroline was Liam’s cousin,” Noelle points out. “I think people sometimes forget that. Basically, the adoption was a way for her to be involved in Douglas’ life and makes sure she has a legal standing to ensure he’s safe.”

For more from your favorite B&B stars, keep reading the CBS edition of Soaps In Depth magazine.

This story originally appeared in our print magazine