This has been an event-filled and exciting week for The Young and the Restless Melody Thomas Scott (Nikki Newman).  On Wednesday February 20th, the day of her 40th anniversary with the series, Y&R hosted a very special gathering in her honor at Y&R’s soundstage 41 at CBS Television City.

As far as milestone events go, this one was one of the most highly-attended and high-profile one in recent memory.  Not only were many of Melody’s castmates present, but also many former ones, dear friends,  family (even some of her adorable young grandchildren), executives, press. and other actresses from the genre, who all came to honor Melody on this remarkable accomplishment – playing a lead character for 40 years on a daytime drama series.

The celebration was filled with emotional and humorous stories and moments from the speakers: Eric Braeden (Victor), Amelia Heinle (Victoria), Joshua Morrow (Nick), who read a poem he wrote instead of a rap he might have done – all representing the Newman clan. Another speaker was Peter Bergman (Jack), representing the Abbott clan, and one of Melody’s enduring scene-partners and co-stars.  Christian LeBlanc (Michael) introduced the speakers and the clip package honoring the iconic Y&R star.

Sony executive, Steve Kent, CBS Daytime executive, Angelica McDaniel, and Brad Bell, head writer and EP of The Bold and the Beautiful, who spoke on behalf of the Bell family, also saluted Melody.  In addition, Melody’s longtime husband, producer Ed Scott, surprised Melody by speaking and introducing one of their dear friends to those in attendance who spoke to the realness of Melody.

When she finally addressed those in attendances after their kudos, Melody gave many special shout-outs and was quite emotional when speaking of her early childhood and how Y&R has become a family to her and a place where she belonged.

Later, photos were taken with the exquisite cake which was in the form of crossword puzzle, Melody’s idea, and executed by the talented folks at the Hansen’s Bakery.

Michael Fairman TV was present at the proceedings and will have a follow-up feature with thoughts from many of the casts on Melody’s accomplishment in the days to come.  For now, take a look at some of the images from the event with our captions in the photo gallery below.

What was your favorite image from Melody’s big day? Comment below.

Everyone was thrilled to see Melody's longtime castmate, Doug Davidson back on set and joined by another longtime scene partner, Lauralee Bell.

Photo Credits: HutchinsPhoto.com and JPI Studios