Comings and goings may be a daytime fact of life, but that doesn't keep us from longing for certain characters to return. Some were naughty, others were nice -- but the following nine [one per soap] we'd welcome back in a heartbeat.

Guiding Light

Missed Character: India von Halkein
Her Portrayer: Mary Kay Adams
Exit Year: 1999
(She made a short return in 2002.)

How Did India Leave? After a brief return to Springfield, India faded into the woodwork. She had been missing for several months when the Spauldings mentioned that India and Alexandra had gone on an around-the-world cruise together. (We're still wondering who threw whom overboard.)

Most Memorable Storyline: Anytime India set her mind on something, viewers were in for a treat. If we had to boil it down, we'd say that her quest to wrest Spaulding Enterprises from the family left an indelible impression.

Why She Is Missed: India represents -- and therefore could help revive -- a particularly memorable period in GL's history. She is a ruthless businesswoman with nerves of steel and a sense of humor -- there was a twinkle in her eye as she stabbed people in the back -- and a voice that could melt stone. Moreover. ill-defined Alex has lost her way and is in dire need of a sparring partner. India's quick visit in 2002 as a member of Phillip's ex-wives' club reminded us of how sorely Springfield could use India's energy.

How Would India Fit In? A recovered Phillip is appalled to see how Spaulding Enterprises has deteriorated in his absence. He appoints India as vice president (in part to needle Aunt Alex because she was involved in his drug-induced depression). India finds Alex and Olivia to be worthy of her verbal boxing matches. With Liv as an enemy, India agrees to marry Phillip, who wants to get revenge on his now ex-wife for lying about Emma. The newlyweds tackle a massive building project that happens to encroach on a Lewis Construction development.

Would Adams Return To GL? "I could never say no to Phillip, and of course, I can't say no to any opportunity to cause trouble for dear ol' Alex," she smiles.