Breaking News
Billy Miller Remembered by His GH and Y&R Co-Stars As They Share Grief on His Passing
UPDATED: On Sunday, longtime friends and co-stars of actor Billy Miller took to social media to share their remembrances and sorrow on the passing of the three-time Daytime Emmy-winning star.
Miller passed away on Friday, September 15th as first reported and confirmed by Michael Fairman TV. While the official cause of death has not been revealed, it has been related to the press by his management that Billy was suffering from manic depression.
Billy played Jason Morgan/Drew Cain on General Hospital from 2014-2019, and prior to that won 3 Daytime Emmys for his role as Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless from 2008-2014. He started his soap career on All My Children in the role of Richie Novack back in 2007-2008.
Below are just some of the tributes pouring in for Billy:
Eric Braeden: “We lost BILLY MILLER! It saddens me deeply! He was a very gifted actor! Amelia(Victoria) and I took him to dinner one evening while he was in tough negotiations, and I remember telling him to reconsider, because rarely is an actor given a part that describes him almost perfectly, and to not make the mistake I had seen some actors make over my 60’years in the business, that they are indispensable! Once an actor thinks that or is told that by some sycophants, they step onto a slippery road…usually to oblivion! “BILLY BOY” was not only a damn good actor but a nice man! May he rest in peace and meet up with KRISTOFF in the BEYOND, ‘the undiscovered country from whose bourn no Traveller returns “ and tell each other jokes! They were both loved by their colleagues!”
Photo: JPI
Melissa Claire Egan: “My beautiful friend. I love you. I’m so sad. And I’m so sorry.”
Chrishell Stause: “Still processing this. Too many feelings, but you are gone too soon and I’m so happy I got to work with you all those years, but also call you a friend. I hope you are at peace now ”
Jess Walton: “RIP to my precious Billy Miller. You were and ARE much loved by all of us who knew you”
Daniel Goddard: “The world is going to be just that little bit more dull without you in it… you had that “it” factor that lit up every room you were in. Rest In Peace Mate ”
Photo: JPI
Nancy Lee Grahn: “So very sorry to hear this very sad and unexpected news. I would like very much for my beloved General Hospital to have no more of it. #RIPBillyMiller“
Eileen Davidson: “I’m so sad to hear of Billy Miller’s passing. His infectious charm and warmth left lasting impressions on all of us who were lucky enough to have him in our lives. I’m gonna miss that mischievous smile. Love you Billy.”
PhotoL JPI
Jason Thompson” “I’m so sorry and saddened to hear about my friend, Billy Miller. Heartbreaking. He was funny, had a great laugh and very talented. Light and love to his family and friends.”
Brad Bell: “Billy Miller was a great man and a gifted actor. Billy left an indelible mark on The Young and the Restless with his brilliant portrayal of Billy Abbott. He will be sorely missed.”
Stephen Nichols: “Sure gonna miss you, man.”
Finola Hughes: “Billy … far too soon … peace be with you”
Kin Shriner: “Very sad to hear about Billy Miller I so enjoyed his time on @GeneralHospital He was a really good guy and funny and kind to all !RIP Billy”
Jon Lindstrom: “Billy was gifted. He was also good-natured, smart, funny, and always impressed me as a great friend to those close to him. He didn’t blink when I asked him to put on this shirt to help raise up the marginalized artists in our industry. He always seemed to have his heart in the right place and I always laughed when I was around him. #FlightOfAngels. #RIP #BillyMiller #bereft”
Frank Valentini: “I am devastated to hear news of the incredibly talented Billy Miller’s passing. On behalf of the entire (General Hospital) family, our hearts go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Photo: JPI
Elizabeth Hendrickson: “Today I should have been sending you a Happy Birthday text BJ. Truth be told i hated calling you BJ but that’s what your closest friends /family called you. I eventually caved. The last couple years we kept in touch through birthdays and monumental moments or when we wanted to vent about “ work”. You gave me a lot of advise. When i understood it always mumbling your words. We always joked about that.
We didn’t text or talk often. But I’m glad the last couple times we did, we had a great banter like we used to. I knew that we always held a special place in each others hearts, no matter what. You were such an amazing friend to your inner circle. They were your family. You would do ANYTHING for them. That’s who really were. As loyal as they came. I’m sad and yes, mad at myself that I wasn’t being a better friend, checking in more often because I was thinking of you recently. I was. I hope you know that we are all here now texting each other, sending pictures and sharing memories of how fucking AWESOME you were. This hole in my heart will never be filled. Goodnight, sweet Billy.”
Scott Clifton: “This is not fair. We deserved so much more of him. Rest in peace, Billy. You’re immortal now.”
Photo: JPI
Coby Ryan McLaughlin (ex-Shiloh, GH): “Man… this sucks. Billy and I played on GH together for nearly a year. He was intense, focused, cool and kind. He knew the hamster wheel that I was about to start spinning on all too well, and always made himself available to help the new guy….. Rest easy, man…
Michael Muhney (ex-Adam, Y&R): “Billy, My fellow Texas brother. You lit up every room with your smile. Your quiet intensity onscreen was second only to your gentle kindness and genuine care in private. We recently shared work on an Apple series, and your encouragements during and after that process, and your kindness over the years are now but a few of the things I’ll hold on to as warm memories of you. What a big heart you had. You were bigger and braver and bolder than this life. You were legend. There is no landing to this final cliffhanger, the wings you’ve spent your lifetime earning have carried you up to that wonderful place in the sky. Happy Birthday Billy Miller.”
The Young and the Restless: “The daytime community mourns the loss of Billy Miller who graced Y&R with his talent for many years as Billy Abbott. Our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.”
Kathleen Gati: “I am beyond sad to hear this tragic news.#BillyMiller was always so kind, professional and a wonderfully talented colleague @GeneralHospital Deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans.”
TK Weaver: “Devastated. Hard to find words. You always gave me such good advice. You were always there for me. You were an amazing person. #BillyMiller I’ll never forget you. Please join me in praying for his family and loved ones.”
Greg Rikaart: Generous, passionate, fun, soulful and brilliant Billy. Can you just imagine the reunion between him and Jeanne? I can. Rest well, dear Billy
Sean Kanan: “Shocked and saddened to hear that Billy Miller is no longer with us. He was a terrific actor and always kind when we would see each other. I pray that his family and friends find comfort and peace during this unimaginably difficult time. #BillyMiller #YR”
Share your remembrances for Billy Miller and his work and performances on Y&R, GH and AMC below. But first, check out Michael Fairman TV’s interview with Billy following his Daytime Emmy win for Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2014.
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Not to nitpick, but his publicist should know the proper term is bipolar disorder and not manic depression. There are conflicting reports as to whether he passed in Texas or LA.
Regardless, the soap world lost yet another extremely talented individual.
it is so sad n if anyone knows about bipolar n how it feels it would be Maurice Bernard who has suffered for yrs with bipolar since he was 21 yrs old n was in a mental institution for 2.5 weeks then was finally diagnosed with bipolar n he advocates for mental health // Maruice played Nico on All My Children n now Sonny on GH n he hasa pod cast for mental health // this is so sad the passing of Billy he was a handsome great actor loved him on Gh as Jason/Drew with Sam – Kelly Monica // they were very close n Iam sure she is devastated along with all the other cast members on all every soap he was on may he RIP in heaven with God
According to The Hollywood Reporter, which is a reputable publication, he was in Austin at the time of his passing. And as for his manager, we have to take into consideration there may not have been a definitive diagnosis for bipolar disorder, or they may not know otherwise and, it is how Billy Miller worded it (if he had). What they should know is subjective; the education may not be there. I know I did not know personally until I did my own research. Not knowing ≠ ignorance, etc. We are an ever-evolving world, and things do change.
Also, wish to state: manic depression is not always bipolar. You can be diagnosed as manic depressive without being diagnosed as bipolar.
Not to nitpick followed by nitpicking
Not to nitpick but you are nitpicking.
Then don’t nitpick! I am bipolar. I don’t care what people call me. This politically correct nonsense is a waste of time. This family is suffering! Think about that!
Thank you, so much for stating the obvious about the Nitpicking & The Miller Family & Billy’s Close Circle.
I TOO Am Bipolar~Manic Depressive. I have carried both Diagnoses for the better part of my Adult Life. I take Meds to Control the Mood Swings. I’ve been hospitalized multiple times. It took me Forever to Learn How to Ask for Help when I got Manic.
I’ve watched All the #ABCSoaps since 1977. So, I saw Billy as #RitchieNovak on #AMC. Then I was Greatly Excited to See Him Come to #GH.
The fact that we are from The Same Area, #GrandPrairieTX And We Both Were #ScottishRiteKids
Billy Miller you were a True #SouthernGentleman #Funny #Adorable
#Classy #TalentedBeyondWords
Yours and Kelly’s #KillyFansForever Fans All over the world are Truly #Heartbroken . I know Kelly Monaco is as well.
#RIP #BillyMiller
Please If Anyone Feels Dispondant or Desperate There is Always Help.
#SuicideAwareness #MentalHealthAwareness
He passed away in Austin.
So saddened to hear of Billy’s passing. He was a bright light and amazing actor. He really got screwed over on GH when Steve burton decided to return. It was so unfair!
You’re right. GH did not do right by him.
I agree with you 100 percent.i was so upset.. love Billy Miller ❤️❤️ my heart is broken
You’re so right!
I am so sad to hear of this. Prayers to his loved ones.
So saddened today waking up to this news of our Billy .At least he’s no longer suffering, as his Publicist has informed us, it ia a neurological desease not a mental one as so many are eagerly referring to this insidious thing, . that no one should have to endure. It kills me thinking of the pain he and his family and friends went through with him. God, give him the peace he’s needed for so long.0
That at this point is a rumor. All his manager has stated to reputable sources is that he had “manic depression.” Some site mentioned this neurological thing and it seems some other not-too-well known sites have run with it; some viewers are posting it on Twitter. I think Michael would know and would publish that if it were true. If and when he and other reliable outlets publish it or we get a quote from his manager or family, I’d say better not to keep repeating that.
Rebecca
Accept my apologies along with any misunderstanding or info I repeated from Billy’s Publicist. I stupidly thought this person knew what he was talking about. This A, M I read Billy’s mom’s statement that according to her says it all. He suffered for years with Bi Polar desease. She said that none of the other statements weve been reading are true.. That’s enough for me and his pain is over but unfortunately his mom and family will suffer long after.God bless them alll
Rebecca 1,et al
Please accept my apologies for my previous post. I was referring to the things his Publicist wrote, assuming he knew what he was talking about. Today, Billy’s mom issued another statement that Billy suffered from Bipolar desease and none of the other statements are true. That’s good enough for me.It certainly is true about not assuming. Again, my love and blessings to Billy’s family and friends.
I’m so sorry for his family and loved ones.
Rarely, do I object to someone returning to a role they created, but I was pissed when GH threw over Billy when Steve Burton returned. It was lazy scriptwriting at best. What an amazing talent! What a luminous presence on the screen. You can tell the actors he acted closely with loved him. What a sad day! This really took the wind out of me today. Prayers for his family and friends! May he find the peace he so richly deserves in heaven!
Steve must be happy. His fans hated Billy. Jason Thompson said he was afraid Billy was going to come back to y and r and take back his role. Billy didn’t do this because he wasn’t like Steve. His supposed best friend, and where is he? He hasn’t even posted a tribute to his supposed best friend. Robot is one of the worst. He took a role from a man he called his friend. Robot fans bullied Billy to the very core which is probably why he decided to leave GH. RIP BILLY. AND to the Robot fans idc what you think or say. Robot fans are like swifties. They defend their king from anyone and anything
Wow, I do not know Steve Burton, and honestly don’t ever want Jason back on General Hospital, but I doubt very much he is “happy” that Billy Miller is dead and find it really distasteful to suggest that. And Steve is not really responsible for the over-the-top antics of his fans, who are adults and should know how to behave civilly.
I always Love him on Young and Restless and then he went to GH as Jason !! He was a Talented Actor God Speed✝️☦️
I am truly sorry for the Family’s loss and all his friends. As a bi-polar myself, I truly get it. He was a wonderful actor who you could resonate with. I am so sad to see him go especially so early in life. I pray you all remember how he touched your life. IJNA Funny, I never knew the real Billy, yet I always felt like I did…he had such a range of acting ability. Enjoy your peace in heaven Billy. I mean this from the bottom of my heart.
I really hope it isn’t true that Steve is returning to GH in November.
Also, it is going to be very difficult to watch Cam Mathison in Billy’s role! If Frank Valentini is so devastated by Billy’s death Why did he throw him under the bus for Burton?
Steve Burton is not returning to GH. Enough bad things have happened to us GH viewers this year. We couldn’t deal with that.
Greg
Just read yesterday that Burton is coming to save the day, cape and all. Cyrus is getting rid of Drew so you won’t have to see him in Billy’s role.
Nobody “threw him under the bus”. Billy knew how recasts work in daytime. I’m sure if he had wanted to return to Y&R to take back the role he originated, they would have welcomed him. Or if he had wanted to return to GH as Drew, for that matter.
The fact is that Billy wanted to go prime time, rather than daytime. He managed to get several gigs, though they were all short term. Unfortunately, his timing couldn’t have been worse, because the Covid pandemic pretty much killed any shot at new pilots being picked up in 2020/2021.. and just as the TV world was getting back to “normal” from that, then the strikes kicked in.
I really would have much rather had Billy back as Drew on GH, than the Hallmark impostor who’s playing the role now. But now that’s never going to happen, of course.
But seriously… .let’s not blame Steve Burton, or Frank Valentini, or anybody else at GH for this. That’s as lame as the “it was the vaccine” dragonshit that was posted elsewhere on this subject the other day.
Mental illness is to blame here. And the stigma that goes with it. That’s really about all that can be said.
We all know nothing, until the autopsy report is completed!!
If he took his own life we don’t need an autopsy for that. Many are indicating that’s what happened. We may never know; I guess it depends if and when the family wants to release the facts.
I suffer from manic depression and anxiety. I have anxiety attacks. But I’m in no way bipolar. All are different. I enjoyed Billy on GH. I am a 50 year watcher of GH and he was a great actor and did well with that cast. Praying for his family.
Folks are confused about this. Manic Depression was relabeled bipolar disorder due to the stigma attached to the word,” manic.” There are four types of manic depression and/or bipolar disorder. It’s about labeling.
Eric Braeden hit a homerun with his tribute!
Billy! A Tremendous TALENT!
Didn’t watch his portrayal of Billy Abbott but from what I continously hear, it was an exceptional portrayal.
He came over to GH and made Lemons work in a storyline that underutilized his potential.
Billy THANK YOU FOR YOUR TALENT!
Breaking News
Anne Heche in Her Final TV Performance to Air on ‘All Rise’
It is hard to believe that now one year later, television fans will see the final performance of Daytime Emmy winner, Anne Heche (ex-Vicky/Marley, Another World). The talented actress passed away from injuries sustained in a car crash back on August 5th, 2022.
Heche was officially declared ‘brain dead’ on August 12th, when her reps shared that Anne was “peacefully taken off life support.” Before she passed, Anne taped what would be her final TV acting appearance in her recurring role on the legal drama, All Rise.
The series formerly with CBS and now airing on OWN, will air Heche’s last performance this Saturday, September 30th at 9pm ET/8 pm CT. On All Rise, Heche plays lawyer Corrine Cuthbert. Since season 2, Heche has taken on the recurring role. She appeared in six episodes.
Photo: JPI
In story, Corrine has had a fraught professional relationship with Judge Lola Carmichael played by Simone Missick. For her final appearance, Heche’s Corrine shows up as part of a trial case.
All Rise dedicated the episode to Heche. As the hour comes to its conclusion, they express: “In Memory of Anne Heche, Our Friend and Wonderful Artist. You Are Missed.”
After this, Heche will star posthumously in the independent movie feature Wildfire: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse, slated for release in November.
Will you be watching Anne’s final television performance on All Rise? Share your thoughts via the comment section below. But first, check out a teaser for the episode which also features former Y&R star, Wilson Bethel who stars on the legal drama as Mark Callan.
Judge Lola is not the one to mess with and she is making that very clear! #AllRise pic.twitter.com/IBbJrPLCUK
— All Rise (@AllRiseOWN) September 28, 2023
Breaking News
Writers Strike Comes to an End; Leadership Votes To Conclude Work Stoppage
It’s over! After 148 days, the 2023 Writers strike will go down as the second longest in WGA union history, only a labor stoppage in 1988 was longer.
The strike will officially come to end on Wednesday at 12:01am PT. This was due to a vote from the guild’s leadership that now has authorized its over 11,500 members to return to work.
That means: pitching and selling scripts, taking meetings, responding to notes, writers’ rooms opening up again, and more, can now restart.
Photo: JPI
The WGA committee shared that the vote, “Allows writers to return to work during the ratification process, but does not affect the membership’s right to make a final determination on contract approval.” However, WGA East and West voted unanimously to lift the “restraining order” on Tuesday.
As the negotiators shared, the end of the strike doesn’t mean that the tentative agreement that the union reached with producers on Sunday night is a surefire thing: Union members still need to vote to ratify the contract. Union leadership announced on Tuesday that will take place between October 2nd and October 9th.
Photo: JPI
However, SAG-AFTRA still remains on strike. So, even with the writers returning to work, many productions can’t move forward without their principal actors and performers.
So soap fans, how do you feel about this news for your favorite shows? Glad that the head writers and their writing teams will be back at work as soon as this week from Days of our Lives, General Hospital, and The Bold and the Beautiful? Y&R’s Josh Griffith, who previously had gone Fi-Core during the 2008 strike, remained at the top rated show during the last several months.
Breaking News
WGA and AMPTP Reach Tentative Deal to End Writers Strike
Looks like we are close, very close, to the writing teams at your favorite soap operas returning to their jobs with news on Sunday that finally the WGA and AMPTP have reached a tentative deal. What remains is the fine print, and having the WGA vote to ratify their contracts.
This is welcome news to the television, streaming and motion picture industry that after five months of a strike has put the 2023-2024 TV season in deep water.
In a statement, the Writers Guild shared, “We have reached a tentative agreement on a new 2023 MBA (Minimum Basic Agreement), which is to say an agreement in principle on all deal points, subject to drafting final contract language. We can say, with great pride, that this deal is exceptional — with meaningful gains and protections for writers in every sector of the membership.”
As the deal goes through its final stages, the writers are still technically on strike, but picketing outside studios and shows has now been suspended.
Photo: ABC
Among the writers’ demands that they fought for are: higher residuals from streaming shows, minimum staff sizes to prevent the use of “mini rooms” and protections from the use of AI. The hope within the entertainment industry is that the new deal for the WGA will move along a new contract for SAG-AFTRA (actors) with the AMPTP. As of Monday, SAG-AFTRA is still on strike.
Photo: JPI
As for your favorite soap operas, during the strikes, the shows were written by non-union writers or “fi-core” writers who gave up their union benefits in order to continue working.
The next steps in process will see the WGA negotiating committee vote on “whether to recommend the agreement and send it on to the WGAW Board and WGAE Council for approval,” tentatively scheduled for Tuesday. Another vote by the board and council could lift the strike “restraining order”and allow scribes to “return to work during the ratification vote”.
So, are you happy to know that the writing teams from your favorite soaps are about to return to work and helm the scripts and the vision of the shows? Comment below.
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