Recaps
Robert Newman Makes His Y&R Debut: What Were Your First Impressions of the New Ashland Locke?
Soap veteran, Robert Newman (Ex-Joshua Lewis, Guiding Light) returned to network daytime drama on Wednesday’s episode of The Young and the Restless.
Newman has taken over the role of business mogul, Ashland Locke, replacing Richard Burgi, who had previously shared that he was let go under a Covid-19 policy protocol within the show.
Now all eyes are on Robert in the pivotal role. In his first aired scenes, Newman them with Mark Grossman (Adam) discussing the power struggle between the two companies – Newman- Locke and Newman Media. Victoria (Amelia Heinle) walked in to the conversation not knowing what the men had been talking about. Then, Adam says Sally (Courtney Hope) has been named the COO, which upsets Ashland and Victoria.
Later, Victor (Eric Braeden) has a chat with Ashland about his said treatment at a clinic in Peru. Apparently, Ashland pulled some strings at got to the head of the line, which was not on the up and up to do so.
Finally, Ashland heads to society for a drink and receives a call that an American is poking around in Peru about him, in which Ashland tells the caller to stick with the plan. You can see that scene below.
In a recent interview with SOD, Newman shared to the fans: “I know recasts can be really difficult for fans. I’m anticipating that there will be some level of disappointment for some people. I’ve watched other actors who are recasts go through difficult times with fans, and I hope it doesn’t quite work that way for me, but we’ll see. It’s not my job to decide what anybody who watches the show likes and what they don’t like. My job is to interpret the material I’m given to the best of my ability. I’m just trying to honor the character and the writers’ intent to the best of my ability. It might be different and it might be a little rocky for the first period of time. I’m just a guy trying to do my best here and to fans, I would just say, ‘Be gentle! Whatever break you can give me, give me, at least for the first few episodes. And then, if you want to start tearing into me, feel free (Laughs).”
So, what were your first impressions of Robert Newman as Ashland on Y&R? Going to give him the chance to make the role his own? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
Nope
Richard Burghi himself made a short term role long term. If it wasnt for him the role of Ashland would just be another poorly conceived Josh Griffith creation. He exuded sexiness and charm and strength to be considered a genoa city powerhouse alternative to the aging Jack and Vic.
The role switch is to jarring because like Mark Grossman , Richard acts rascally, so you love to hate him.
I actually erased the show half way, I cant stomach Nikki the previous socialite as a executive or another Billys searching for himself arc.
Anyone have any insight on to when the viewers will finally get a real headwriter?
I agree Damien. RN is just not convincing, yet, as a crafty type. Maybe I’m biased because of so many years watching him as good guy Josh Lewis. I LOVE Mark Grossman’s version of Adam; I actually like him and think Victoria’s current behavior is sadistic, childish, abhorrent. Taking a measuring tape to his office to rub it in… what is she, nine? And yet ANOTHER personal crisis for Billy Abbott? YAWN! He’s so unlikable anyway; he has no more stones to throw at anybody. He’ll screw up this job opportunity in no time.
It seems like CBS has confidence in Tony Morina & Josh Griffith since they’re both vets of the show and write “character-driven” stories. But the dialogue has gotten so stale, it feels like actors are bored with the lines they’re saying. And none of the stories right not are exciting in any way. There are very few people to root for and characters like Sally, who I love, feel out of place because of how interesting they are in comparison to everyone else – which is NOT how it should be.
Is it ‘confidence ‘?
Seems more like they ( cbs/ sony) just doesnt ‘care’
Anyone with a pulse could see this show lacks any vision…
I agree about the dialogue ; if the actors aren’t bored , I am! I watch when Victor and Adam are in a scene. Nikki shows more loyalty to her children than Victor: she hasn’t the slightest idea what it means to be a help meet.
I loved Burgi ; however , I’ll give Newman a chance! I’m waiting for the new writers , too.
I’m late to the party, but I totally agree with Damien, Burgi was a formidable candidate to be the next Victor Newman. Poor Robert Newman couldn’t replace him, no one can, just like Victor. Now other than Victor and Adam, most of the men are a bunch of boring saps, not to mention Chance, Danny Boaz made Abby interesting. Please do something, anything to improve what was once my favorite show. It’s awful.
So right, Felicia. To me, Billy Abbott is the worst. That podcast? As Sophia Petrillo would say, “You need BOOTS to listen to this guy.” I swear, most of us spoke more intelligently than than him in grammar school! I like Noah the actor but they’re giving him NOTHING interesting. For a while, I thought his working with his uncle Adam might cause some sparks…maybe draw the family closer. But they squelched that PRONTO! Chance? Cute but dull as dishwater. And why is Devon in EVERY storyline?
Felicia. As am i!!!! My TV is still paused bc like I do not want to keep watching. There was no warning that the last Qshland scene was my last ughhhh..
Omg I love Danny Boaz… this Chance… mehhh not feeling him
Yuck! Too old for Amelia Heineken!
On 4/19/22 episode he kissed her and I vomited at the gross old man in her lovely young face! Make it stop.
I was thinking the same… I just found out the news today. I was wayyyyyyy before on my soaps and am now catching up. When I heard the role of Ashland… I’m like pause. Is he sick or whatis going on??
They could have given him a pass. How was he to know that the cdc > cbs like cmon. Should have been given a warning, not let go. Like they really couldnt send him home???
Sounds like one of those cases of any excuse to get rid of someone…
But yes He just exudes a charm, sexy yes devious. And his voice like Richard made Ashland and I cannot see Ashland played by any one else… they’ll find a way to kill him off I think… but initially I hated him and he became my fave character… I qlso liked that I got to see an older more suave Karl from DH
He is a vet, he can handle just about anything. I wasnt sold on the other Ashland so Robert will be good in this role. He has already shown a harder line with Adam and I like it!
I think that Robert Newman is doing a very good job in the role of Ashland Locke. He is a good actor and is making role his own.
I am so impressed at how Robert Newman has “become” Ashland Locke. I noticed he has the same mannerisms and expressions. Great job!
Love Robert. All they need now is a certain spitfire to come to Genoa City!! I’m Just Sayin….
He was great yesterday, for a first-day — especially considering he was thrown right into dramatic scenes with Adam and Victor. Really captured some of the speech patterns of Richard Burgi, and showed how the writers are moving Ashland in a more villainous way. Of course it always takes time to get used to a recast, but Robert Newman hit the ground running He’ll only get even better from here.
When he says, “I’ve watched other actors who are recasts go through difficult times with fans,” I can only think of poor Nicole Forester from “Guiding Light” who was just treated terribly by fans after she was given the double whammy of replacing the super-popular Laura Wright as Cassie at the same time a very divisive storyline about Cassie and Josh falling in love took off.
I actually liked Nicole’s Cassie much better than Laura’s…who ironically married Josh!
Robert Newman is a true professional. He has made the role of Ashland Locke his own.
yes Robert has.
I’ve never cared for the character of Ashland and I’m not sold on his relationship with Victoria either. Her best relationship will always have been with Billy Miller’s version of Billy. Robert Newman is a talented actor and I’m sure he’ll do fine in the role, but I would have preferred to see him join GH as Liz’s father Jeff Webber. I’m also not thrilled with how Richard Burgi was let go from the show – seems a bit extreme for an honest mistake.
I’ve also never cared for the Ashland character. One reason is that both Ashland’s look too old for Victoria. Makes you wonder if she has daddy issues. Plus I don’t like Victoria much either. Always trying to get Victor’s love and respect while competing with him at the same time.
Agreed. I feel it was an any excuse to let go let go kind of thing…
Like why not a warning. CBS cmon
I tuned into The Young and the Restless for the first time since February 2020, and it was wonderful to see Robert Newman back on a soap opera. Granted, it is not the role I would’ve wanted for him, but he completely OWNED his scenes. He gave me Kirk Cranston vibes, and I love it.
Robert Newman did a fantastic job on his first day on Y&R – he is a great actor who I have missed seeing on my tv screen!
I Loved, Loved, Loved him as Joshua Lewis and Reva’s BUD on GL!
BTW- he’s much better eye candy than Richard Burgi – I’m just sayin !
Robert Newman did a fantastic job on his first day on Y&R as Ashland
It was so great to see him on my tv screen again –
I loved , loved, loved him as Joshua Lewis
Aka – Reva’s BUD on GL !
BTW- Robert is much better eye candy than Richard Burgi – I’m just sayin !
I think he’s the Best Looking man on Daytime TV
Now if we can only get Billy Miller back on a soap!
As I said on another site, I’ve been skeptical as to Robt. Newman as Aston but I think when that bell rang, he was out of the gate, on his way to the finish line. I liked how he was on Billy’s case right off the bat and stood up to Victor as well. I want to see him and Victoria more and if there are any vibes there.
Yes a familiar face, same age as character, grey hair, the issue will be the writing and direction they take the character. And please stop dropping sets – Lillie gets a big new job and a week later she is working from home. Next everyone will just be meeting in the park.
Great actor!!
Richard Burghi owns Ashland–
The replacement gave it a good try, but-
he’ll never be thee, Ashland..
Robert Newman looks much older and doesn’t fit with Victoria..
Bad chem casting–
But- it is what it is___
I agree with you 100%!
He doesn’t look older, they’re both the exact same age.
Agree Burgos had great chemistry with actress who plays Victoria and he is much more handsome
Absolutely agree! I can hardly stand to watch him.
Richard Burgi’s portrayal of Ashland Locke made the character debonair, charming, worldly and sexy. He looked fantastic in a tailored business suit. And with signature mannerisms and his smooth, throaty voice, it all worked together as being believable that Victoria Newman would be attracted to a man like him. The chemistry btwn the two was only getting better. Richard’s Ashland was extended bc fans responded to how great he was with Amelia Heinle. But the brilliant suits at CBS decided to throw all of that away, on a technicality with covid, to pursue their potential February Sweeps ratings with a former GL veteran favorite. BRAVO CBS!
Amen!
Richard Burghi imo was the only positive to come out of Griffiths nonsense
Damien
I thought so too until I’d seen Robert Newman’s version of Ashland. I think he’s doing a great job playing this high powered , decidedly, devious ,etc,etc,etc man. Cannot wait to see what ultimately he turns out to be.
I agree, Violet. I was fast forwarding through Ashland scenes but no longer. RN is so talented and charismatic.
He’s great ! But the writing and production values are the worst they have been in 20 years .
Embaressing really
Its so bad it looks like its going the way of fading into cancellation
No plots, no sets,no romance,no excitement, no music , no point….
It’s so strange ! The formula is there for it to be a hit show . The current regime needs to look at old Young and The Restless episodes from the 90s.
The music , the sets, the characters . It’s a very watered down version of a once great show . I’m surprised it’s not doing worse in the ratings.
Damien
No ####!! Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.
P.S I haven’t heard or seen any fat ladies singing yet.
When new Ashland is next to Victor they look like brothers–
Victoria banging her uncle LOL
The chem is way off–
My stomach knots when imagining them doing the nasty–
It’s just gross–
Hot passionate kisses are never going to happen because it would be the barff bag–
I agree, su000. Why does every actor past 40 (and their producers) want to look ancient with prematurely grey hair and those dreadful beards that age some men by 10 years or more. Everyone’s so concerned with being their “authentic self” they’ve forgotten they’re actors playing a role and RN looks too old to be Ashland Locke.
So disappointed, I don’t like new Ashton, just doesn’t suit the spot
with Victoria.
Bring back Ashton.
The character’s name is Ashland, and the original actor, Richard Burgi, as great as he was, did not comply with the covid restrictions and, therefore, was let go. Robert has obviously studied the character, and is doing well with all of the nuances, and will ultimately interpret the character with his own.
Robert Newman has made it point to mention he did not watch Richard Burgi in the role; everything he is bringing to the role is on his own accord and what he’s taking from the script. He’s turning crap into gold.
Interesting. His nuances are fantastic, and he will turn this role into his own. I adore Robert, and it will be interesting to see how he and Amelia evolve as a couple. Thanks for the insight:)
Couldn’t agree more. Loved Richard Burgi in the role but just can’t stand Robert Newman in the role. He gives me the creeps.
He fitted right in
Only watch one soap — Y&R. So, Mr.Newman is new to me. First view was his meeting with Victor. Was surprised that he appeared to be noticeably older than the previous Ashland as well as heavier. Don’t know why the beard surprised me. I like beards. He came across as taking a more aggressive stance in his role and perhaps on the dark side as exhibited in the bar following the meeting. I too wondered about how the connection with Victoria would feel for the viewer.
Well, another side of him appeared to emerge, a softer and kinder side, when Victoria entered their office. It didn’t appear to be too awkward. He can play both roles. Will probably take more time to see if it works. However, for me, Victoria (the actress) is doing a terrific job in her role as the head of Newman. She can be delightfully cutthroat and duplicitous. For Mr. Newman, I give the guy a thumbs up for potential!
Tani Sterling
I think your assessment of Robt. Newman’s take on Ashland, is the most like mine. Why would people expect him to mimic Burgi? Newman has said he never watched the other man’s version, because he wanted the character to be his own. Yes, his physique is a little broader and heavier and I agree with Soaphound here about his beard. I don’t like all that facial hair on an older man because I think it tends to make him look older, and in this case Victoria likes the idea of having a father figure that she can be romantic with.
i love robert newman on y and r. GREAT CHOICE
Welcome to Young and Restless , Robert! You’re all right with, me!
Newman looks like Victoria’s grandfather .please, Bring back Burgi letting him go for a five day Covid nonsense quarantine is absolutely stupid!
I hate the new ashton locke (Robert Newma n) not good looking, not charming, not a convincing actor, no chemistry between Victoria and him. Bring back Richard Burgi!!!
I agree. Makes me think of no longer watching. Just not enough to hold my interest. Robert Newman nay be a good actor but in this role he can’t compare to Richard Burgi. Only interesting couple is Adam and Sally. The rest is a snorefest.
100% Agree!
First day on canvas Robert Grossman was okay. March 15, 2022 he has come into his own (Ashland Locke)! I love his scenes! Victoria you are truly Victor the 2nd! The tape measure scene with Adam was devilishly good, day time Soap. Victoria you are Victor, and Jack’s replacement!
Ashland we went from sexy to grandpa. I just can not buy into this. Vic is now married to grandpa. I could believe it with the original ashland because even though he was closer to dad vics age than victorias age …he was sexy…now we have rolly polly grandpa! Nope!!!!
No…just..NO
I guess I’m in the minority but I’m not a fan of the new “Ashland” on The Young & the Restless. I really miss Richard Burgi as the portrayer of the “Ashland” character. Another casualty of COVID-19!! I know recasts can be incredibly hard but I’m just not feeling this one…. We lost Richard Burgi for such a stupid reason is not helping to accept the new actor. If he was a new character, I’m sure I would feel differently!!
Great actor but I cringe thinking of him kissing Amelia Heinle. Looks like her dad!! Eww – no. Please stop pushing old men’s fantasies onto younger actresses!
Recaps
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Has Dylan’s Mystery Caller/Stalker Been Revealed to Be an Alive Luna Nozawa?
We have another scream machine on her hands at The Bold and the Beautiful after the dramatic ending of the May 1 episode, and that would be Dylan (Sydney Bullock)!
B&B is finally making some headway on just who was the person behind the mystery call that Dylan received telling her they have some “unfinished business.” At the time of the mysterious call, it was clear that the voice was altered to disguise the true identify of the person on the the other line.
On today’s show, after Dylan and Electra (Laneya Grace) exchange words in the wardrobe room about Dylan wanting to rebuild their trust and friendship and how Electra has issues stemming from way back trusting anyone after what Remy (Christian Weissmanm) did to her by befriending her and then plastering deep fake nude photos of her across social media.

Photo: JPI
The timing of Electra bringing up Remy is also interesting to us, as we had previously reported now that Christian Weissmann is back and on on contract with The Bold and the Beautiful, he’s already teased that Remy has another connection to someone on the canvas, which many are still believing its Dylan.
At the end of the episode, after Electra leaves the room, Dylan hears noises coming from behind the dress rack. She asks, “Jamie” is that with you? After no answer and a bit more hangar and dress ruffling, a figure steps out behind it, while Dylan is looking down at her tablet trying to get back to work.
When Dylan looks up, she lets out a scream that could be heard to Nebraska, as viewers see partial view of what looks to be a woman with long dark hair from the back. Dylan in shock, says, “It’s you!” We fade to black.
So, what’s going on here? Is the reason the caller said to her that we have “unfinished business” because on Monday, it will be revealed to actually be an alive and well, Luna (Lisa Yamada)? Did the two strikes some sort of deal, that allowed Dylan to help Luna escape after Luna supposedly died after Dylan ran her down with her car, which was all off-screen? Another theory, is the mystery caller is Remy and he is doing some sort of Luna fakeout on Dylan for a yet to be revealed reason.
What do you think is going on? Did Lisa Yamada just make an on-screen return to The Bold and the Beautiful? Share your thoughts and theories below, but first check out our recent interview from back in March on the Michael Fairman Channel when Lisa who attended the BBTV app launch party.
Recaps
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS: Nick Confesses His Drug Problem to Victor; Joshua Morrow, Mark Grossman, Eric Braeden Bring the Newman Bond
When The Young and the Restless can deliver an emotional side to their stories and their family dynamics, it usually makes for some great scenes delivered by their A-list cast.
Such was the case on the Friday, May 1 episode when Adam (Mark Grossman) and Nick (Joshua Morrow) returned to Genoa City and gave their father, Victor Newman (Eric Braeden), an update on what had gone down with Matt Clark (Roger Howarth) in Las Vegas.
As Victor questioned, “What the hell happened?” Nick piped up, “We both made mistakes along the way, but we’re here now and we’re sorry for giving you so much worry on top of everything else that you’re dealing with,” which was in reference to Victor trying to reclaim his company Newman Enterprises et al.

Courtesy/CBS
NICK’S CONFESSION
Next, Nick, explains one of the ways he messed up while trying to go after Matt Clark, when he admitted to this father with tears in his eyes, “That’s one of the ways I messed up … I took Fentanyl willingly. Some of it was because of Matt, but most of it was on me. I was in a lot of pain, dad, after my accident, I was burning through my prescription meds really quickly after I left the hospital. I could see that it was becoming a problem. But honestly, I thought that I could manage it. I was wrong. I was out in LA and Matt had taken Noah (Lucas Adams) and Sienna (Tamara Braun) and he gave me this bag of pills and said I could use it to trade for information. When I went out to that drug warehouse, he was trying to convince me and Sharon (Sharon Case) that Noah was a drug addict. I just put the pills in my pocket of my jacket and I came back to Genoa City and I was in a lot of pain, dad, and I was wearing that jacket. I put my hands in the pocket and the pills were there.”
Nick sadly added, “I was desperate. I couldn’t get anymore prescription meds, so I took the fentanyl I’m deeply ashamed that I was so weak, but all I can do is stand here and tell you the truth that I’m going to make this right and I’ll get better.”
BROTHER TO BROTHER
Adam stood up for his brother and reconfirmed to Victor the plan for help Nick through his pill addiction, “Nick is already on his way to doing that. Sharon has set up an appointment with an outpatient facility. He’s going to do the meetings and he’s going to push through this better than ever.”

Courtesy/CBS
“You should also know that the only reason I’m standing here is because of Adam,” Nick confessed to Victor. “Every time I fell, you were there to pick me up. You risked your life to save me, and that’s not something I will ever forget.”
In the climatic and emotional ending of the scene, Nick in tears admits his shame to his dad, who comes in to give him hug. Nick says, “I’m so sorry. I know that this is the last thing you or this family needs.”
All three actors, Joshua Morrow, Mark Grossman and Eric Braeden, were excellent in this exchange in their scenes, but at its epicenter continues to be the Emmy-worthy performances by Y&R MVP, Joshua Morrow. Nick’s heartbreaking journey and fall from grace with his pill addiction problem has finally shown the clinks in the armor of the man who is always on the ready to help others … now he needs to let others help him through this. Can we do it?
So, what did you think of the scenes between the Newman man featuring Joshua, Mark and Eric on the Friday episode of Y&R? And though who watched also know that at the very end, Matt Clark who clearly has been injured wakes up from being conked out, so there is more revenge to come on the Newman clan. Share your thoughts below, but take a look at these scenes from a Canadian viewers who saw them air yesterday.
Nick + Sharon Scenes!#Shick is building up. I can feel it! 👏🥹🫶
Thursday April 30 Canada Episode. Friday May 1 US episode.
Remember to comment if you want to keep seeing these!
Enjoy, Shick fans! #yr pic.twitter.com/7chSdXTdQ3
— ✨✨ Alicia ✨✨ (@LadywithOpinion) May 1, 2026
Days Of Our Lives
DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Sophia Seemingly Plans to End Her Life, But Not Before Setting Fire to Johnny’s Apartment With Him Trapped Inside
The final few moments of the Thursday, April 30 episode of Days of our Lives, will pave the way, to what just may be the end of Sophia Choi’s (Rachel Boyd) life, but not as you may think!
After an unhinged Sophia paid a visit to Johnny DiMera (Carson Boatman), maced him in the eyes, knocked him out and then tied up to a chair, now conscious, she lets him know that she holds him responsible for all the trouble and trauma she has gone through from adopting her child, and her being sent to a mental institution.
So instead of the unregistered gun Kristen (Stacy Haiduk) gave her to finish off Johnny, Sophia sets up a plan to light candle, use nail polish remover and turn on the gas on the stove to ultimately create a mass explosion, which although Johnny pleaded to her not to that to all the innocent people inside his apartment building, she doesn’t seem to care.

Photo: JPI
FIERY FACE OFF
The plan was supposed to be, after she takes care of Johnny she will toss the gun in the Salem River, then focus on payback to Holly Jonas before leaving town to start a new life.
Now, Sophia makes her exit, leaving Johnny to be a few moments away from an explosion or gas inhalation, when Chanel (Raven Bowens) comes home after awaiting the results of her mammogram. She sees Johnny tied up, as he panics and tells her to put out the flame on the candle, things go awry, and a fire has begun and everything may go up in flames with Johnny and Chanel inside.

Photo: JPI
A BROKEN SOPHIA
Back in her room, Sophia breaks down after reading the social media comments about her, she planted, and then starts writing a suicide or farewell note which says. “I’m tired of begging for forgiveness for my mistakes. All I wanted was to move forward, to be loved and understood. But it’s clear that I was never going to get that. Holly Jonas said that I was dead to her. So, as her former BFF, I’m going to make her dream a reality.”

Photo: JPI
A DEADLY TRAP
Now, the fate of Johnny, Chanel and Sophia will be revealed on tomorrow’s May 1st cliffhanger, which may be the end of Sophia when she crosses paths with Kirsten at the bridge near the river. We do know Rachel Boyd is no longer appearing in the show credits section and is now off contract with the soap.
So, what did you think of the climatic final moments of DAYS? What did you think of the performance of Rachel Boyd as Sophia Choi? Let us know via the comment section.
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