Leslie Thomas has built a reputation as Fairmont Crest’s schemer, but her latest turn in Beyond the Gates takes her in an entirely new direction. A revelation from the past is about to shake her world in ways even she couldn’t predict.
Barbara’s Story and the Secret Kept
The tragedy of Barbara Mitchell, once a member of The Articulettes, has long haunted those around her. After being forced out of the group, Barbara died by suicide, leaving her bandmate Anita Dupree with lasting guilt. Before her death, Barbara entrusted her baby to her loyal friend Peaches, who raised the child in secrecy.
Now, with Peaches nearing death, she decides to reveal the truth about Leslie’s origins. This moment sets the stage for a dramatic shift in Fairmont Crest, and Trisha Mann-Grant, who plays Leslie, admitted she was thrilled when she learned of the twist earlier this year. She recalled thinking it was fresh, different, and deep enough to blow audiences away.
Beyond the Gates: Leslie’s Birth Mother Revealed
The bombshell comes when Leslie learns her birth mother is Barbara herself, and with that revelation comes a massive inheritance. Mann-Grant said her character reacts first with shock, then confusion, before quickly snapping back into “Leslie mode” where she begins plotting her next steps.
For once, though, viewers will also see Leslie’s softer side. Mann-Grant pointed out that Leslie does have a heart, and the emotional storyline will move audiences to tears. She teased that Leslie won’t stay vulnerable for long, adding that she’ll soon plan big, bold moves certain to get fans talking.
For Mann-Grant, Leslie has become one of her most rewarding roles. She said she never expected the character to turn into such a villainess but enjoyed having the freedom to create new layers. She admitted Leslie is chaotic, complicated, and fun, and insisted the sky is the limit for where she goes next. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for all the latest twists and turns from Beyond the Gates.