Economic troubles in the United States are doing a number on world markets.

From banks to automakers, it seems like everybody needs a bailout these days including TV soap operas!

Could they be next in line?

There's no shortage of drama when it comes to daytime soaps. But now there's plenty of it unfolding off the set.

"I'm so worried. I'm so afraid."

Longrunning soap operas like ABC's "All My Children" and NBC's "Days of our Lives" are being hit with a double economic whammy.

Ratings are down, advertisers are cutting back.

"It's been very difficult because much of the advertising is car dealers and that advertising has dried up right now."

Soap Opera Digest's Editorial Director Lynn Leahey says tough financial times have forced networks to slash salaries even for seasoned soap stars like Susan Lucci.

Some veteran actors have been released from their contracts, but Leahey says it's not just slumping ratings driving the cuts.

Local automotive dealers, traditionally the meat and potatoes of daytime T.V. advertising dollars, are spending significantly less - some nothing at all.

"You've got everybody in a little bit of a panic mode right now."

Steven McClintock, with Lacarguy says last year the California dealership spent $350,000 dollars on TV advertising - and this year?

"Maybe a hundred thousand." "The audience has decreased, the ratings have changed, we have to weigh what we can afford to spend verses what we're gonna get out of it."

McClintock like many in the automotive industry, is keeping an eye on in Washington and the possible bail out.

For now, with daytime drama's viewership on the downturn, he's looking at less costly and more creative ways to reach consumers

"Keep your opinions to yourself and stay the hell out of my life"

Like the car industry, television networks say they're also finding new ways to control costs and maintain production quality.