A character recently released from prison, actor John Brotherton originated the role of down-and-out Jared Banks when he arrives in fictional Llanview, Pennsylvania, holding a particular interest in the Buchanan family. He is first seen reading a book about legendary Llanview businessman Asa Buchanan, and soon tries to convince Asa's granddaughter Natalie to give him a job at Buchanan Enterprises. She is resistant, but agrees to a game of billiards with a job as the prize, assuming that, as an expert, she will win. However, Jared distracts her and she loses.