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!
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sonny and Jason Trade Threats on Each Other
The love affair that once was mobster Sonny (Maurice Benard) and hit man Jason (Steve Burton), and having each others back, is now apparently over! On the Thursday April 25th episode of General Hospital, an increasingly paranoid Sonny is confronted by Jason.
Jason wants to talk to Sonny about a “family matter”, but Sonny says they aren’t family now because he’s working with the Feds. Sonny goes on to say how he cannot trust Carly (Laura Wright) or Jason and he knows about Jason buying back the Metro Court for Carly from Nina (Cynthia Watros).
When the conversation turns to Josslyn (Eden McCoy) and Dex (Evan Hofer), Jason informs Sonny that Kristina (Kate Mansi) knows Sonny ordered a hit. Jason is worried about Dex’s safety. He tells Sonny that if he does something to Dex, Kristina will figure out that he is responsible.
Courtesy/ABC
Sonny goes on to say how much he loves his kids and how he will protect them. He then tears into Jason for abandoning his sons, Danny and Jake, for two years and how he has no right to stand there to tell him what to do.
Jason warns Sonny again to leave Dex alone or he’ll personally stop him. Sonny snaps at Jason, countering, “You’ll die trying!” And at that point, Jason walks out and Sonny slams the door behind him.
What do you think about this split in the longstanding relationship of Jason and Sonny? Do you like Jason and Sonny at odds? Will Kristina be the person to ultimately figure out what is happening to Sonny, or it might it be Nina, who knows Ava (Maura West) is up to no good? Share your thoughts in the comment section, but first watch this clip from part of the Sonny/Jason scenes below.
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Brook Lynn and Chase Have Their Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties
On General Hospital, Brook Lynn (Amanda Setton) and Chase (Josh Swickard) both were treated to Bachelorette and Bachelor parties to shake off any of those pre-wedding jitters. At The Savoy, the ladies have a touching and fun time with Brook Lynn.
The bride-to-be gives a speech to thank everyone for coming, while Lois lets everyone know to try the signature cocktail the “Brooklynn Chaser”, which gets everybody eventually and mostly, drunk.
When Tracy (Jane Elliot) questions Lois (Rena Sofer) as to why there is no music for the party, Lois realizes she forgot, and somehow, who does she call to the rescue? Spinelli (Bradford Anderson)! Saving the day, he winds up playing some tunes and later gets on the dance floor to ‘shake it off’ with the gals.
Photo: ABC
Lois makes a speech as the mother of the bride, and shares how proud she is of the woman Brook Lynn has become. Wedding games begin, including one of “hot potato” with a wedding bouquet.
When it’s time for the “Silly Poses” section of the party, Spinelli has now morphed from DJ to staff photographer taking memorable photos of the ladies to remember the evening by.
Photo: ABC
The best part of the event, was when Brook Lynn tries to get her grandmother Tracy out on the dance floor, which, at first, she refuses. After several of the guests bust a move, a tipsy Tracy joins the dance party after Joss mentions that if her grandmother Bobbie was here, she would dance. Tracy says “she agrees” and begins to cut a rug on the floor, much to the delight of the other women.
Photo: ABC
In the final moments, a tipsy Joss and Kristina (Kate Mansi) have a confrontation about Sonny, and Joss lets Kristina in more on Sonny’s behavior, which looks to have clued in Kristina a bit more as to how something is way off about her dad.
Photo: ABC
Across town at the Hatchett Bar, Dante (Dominic Zamprogna) and the men with the exception of Anna (Finola Hughes) and Jordan (Tanisha Harper), all attend Chase’s Bachelor Party where throwing hatchets into a dart board for supremacy is the order of the day. Drew (Cameron Mathison) and Ned (Wally Kurth) get into some words over ELQ, while Dante makes a toast to his police partner, Chase.
Photo: ABC
Suddenly Dex (Evan Hofer) shows up. Chase thanks Dex for coming, but Dex gets some dirty looks from other cops on the force. Dante gives Chase his present, which is a signed baseball by the Boston Red Sox.
Ned (Wally Kurth) makes a speech that although no one is good enough for his daughter, Brook Lynn, Chase has come closer than anyone has, so welcome to the family. Running in at the end is Blaze (Jacqueline Grace Lopez), who just left Brook Lynn’s party, and she toasts her singing partner, Chase, and to the great man that he is.
Photo: ABC
What did you think of Brook Lynn and Chase’s pre-wedding celebrations? What was your favorite moment? Comment below.
General Hospital
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Nina Confronts Ava for Sabotaging Her Relationship With Sonny and Signs the Divorce Papers
Looks like Nina (Cynthia Watros) and Ava (Maura West) are back to be each other’s sworn enemy number one. By the end of the Monday, April 22nd episode of General Hospital, the women know where they stand with each other after Nina goes in on Ava accusing her of wanting Sonny (Maurice Benard) all to herself, while her marriage has been on the rocks.
In story, at Nina’s office, Ava shows up to see Nina and says she is sorry about what happened with Sonny and that he reacted the way he did, acknowledging that is was over the top, even for Sonny. Ava says she’ll smooth things over, but Nina says she now understands how manipulative and transparent Ava really is.
Given their horrible history, Nina goes in on Ava and how she should never have trusted her. Nina wants to know how long has Ava had this agenda dating all the way back to telling Nina to turn Carly (Laura Wright) and Drew (Cameron Mathison) into the SEC. Ava says she never told her do to that, but Nina wants to know how long Ava has been playing her for a fool.
Courtesy/ABC
Ava says she moved in with Sonny to keep Avery safe and she wants to be on good terms with Avery’s father, Sonny. Nina thinks she likes being in Sonny’s inner circle. Ava tells Nina if she goes to him about her advising Nina to call the SEC on Carly and Drew, it won’t work. Sonny still considers Nina a traitor and he will think she’s lying because she’s so desperate to win him back. Ava says if Nina would stop blaming everyone else that maybe Sonny would respect her. Nina says “like he does you?” Ava says Sonny not only respects her, but he also counts on her.
From there, Ava launches into why she and Sonny understand each other, after all, Sonny is a powerful, turbulent, and sometimes violent man. She goes so far to say if Nina wanted someone to just sit by the fire with and play with their grandchildren, she’s got the wrong guy. Ava then talks about Mike from Nixon Falls (Sonny with amnesia) and how Sonny hid the darkest parts of himself from Nina back then, whereas with Ava they are the same similar creatures, so he doesn’t have to hide anything.
Courtesy/ABC
Nina wants to know just what Ava wants with Sonny? What is her end game? Ava responds that they understand each other, in ways she can’t with Sonny. Nina tells Ava she can go ahead and have it all and signs Sonny’s divorce papers. Ava walks out with the documents, while Nina in tears at her desk, takes off her wedding rings and has her assistant come in so she can messenger the rings back to Sonny’s address.
The episode and these scenes featured great performances by Cynthia Watros and Maura West. You can check some of the scenes below.
Now, let us know, what is Ava’s next move? Is she going to become Mrs. Sonny Corinthos? Do you like Ava and Nina as enemies? Comment below.
Jon Lindstrom and Cady McClain Announce They Have Ended Their Marriage
Y&R Stars Pay Tribute and Remember Marla Adams
(INTERVIEW) B&B’s Annika Noelle Reveals Her Lead Actress Emmy-Nominated Scenes, and the Ups and Downs of a Tough Year
Marla Adams, The Young and the Restless’ Dina Mergeron, Dies at 85
Adam Huss Makes Another Return to General Hospital as Nikolas Cassadine
Ellen Travolta Makes Another Return to General Hospital
REPORT: Nicholas Chavez Not Returning to General Hospital
Jon Lindstrom and Cady McClain Announce They Have Ended Their Marriage
Kristian Alfonso Returns to Days of our Lives for Tribute to The Late Bill Hayes
Adam Huss Makes Another Return to General Hospital as Nikolas Cassadine
Marla Adams, The Young and the Restless’ Dina Mergeron, Dies at 85
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Sonny and Jason Trade Threats on Each Other
REPORT: Nicholas Chavez Not Returning to General Hospital
Cameron Mathison Previews New Game Show ‘Beat The Bridge’ (Promo)
Y&R’s Michelle Stafford Talks on Her Lead Actress Daytime Emmy Nomination, Allison Lanier, and ‘Pacific Palisades’ with Finola Hughes
-
General HospitalApril 21, 2024‘Knots Landing’s’ Donna Mills and Joan Van Ark Reunite for Los Angeles Ballet Season 18 Gala
-
NewsApril 20, 2024The Young and the Restless Preview: Ashley’s New Alter Emerges
-
Days Of Our LivesApril 19, 2024Stephen Schnetzer Talks On His Return to Days of our Lives and Working with Susan Seaforth Hayes In Emotional Episodes
-
General HospitalApril 22, 2024Ellen Travolta Makes Another Return to General Hospital
-
Breaking NewsApril 25, 2024REPORT: Nicholas Chavez Not Returning to General Hospital
-
Breaking NewsApril 19, 2024(WATCH) 2024 Daytime Emmy Nominations Special Live!