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Y&R’s Eric Braeden Speaks Out: “There Was An Attempt By The Former EP and Head Writer To Diminish The Role Of Victor Newman”

Photo: JPI

The one and only Eric Braeden (Victor, Y&R) gave fans the opportunity to pose questions to him on his own Facebook Live event called, “Ask Me Anything.”

While fielding many an inquiry, one in particular struck a chord when Braeden had some choice words for former executive producer and head writer of the series, Mal Young.

When asked what happened to Victor’s office set, Braeden said, “Well, let me be honest with you.  There was an attempt by the former executive producer and head writer to diminish the role of Victor Newman.  I’ll say it very clearly and very succinctly, he attempted to diminish it, to bring the character down.  Never forgive him for that, but he’s gone. Bye bye.”

In other key moments, Eric noted that he thinks the new material from head writer, Josh Griffith should debut in about 3-4 weeks. Braeden  was also asked if he thinks his on-screen son, Adam Newman will ever return to the canvas, plus he spoke of his enduring friendship with another Y&R icon, Jeanne Cooper (Katherine Chancellor) and more.

You can watch the entire Facebook live with Braeden below.   Then let us know what you thought of Eric’s remarks via the comment section below.

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So, the “Fans” who hate Victor need to thank him! Sounds like he got rid of Mal Young and the bonus is he does NOT like the Rosales being front and center. He said the show used to be about the NEWMANS AND ABBOTTS and seems headed back that way! Thank God AND Eric!

Completely agree with U Timmm!

yes!

Didn’t the network realize that Victor is The Young and the Restless? He makes the show what it is. The only way I want Eric off the show is when it’s God who does it. New writers, please hurry!

Oh puleeze…..the show was fine before he arrived on scene. He has become a completely unbelievable character resembling the heroes from Marvel comics. It was wonderful not having him around for this recent extended time. He could leave tomorrow and there would be a huge contingent cheering as he walked out the door. The actor is a legend in his own mind and his persona off screen is much like the ridiculous character he plays.

If you ask anyone outside of a soap fan about soaps, they will will always know Luke and Laura, Bo and Hope and Victor and Nicki. You may not like Eric Braeden BUT he is the face of Y&R!

And Erica Kane from Pine Valley!!!!

You are so right my frisky little kitten!

Erica is in a “cat-egory” all her own, Timmmbo! She is an absolute soap icon, feline fine…and complete catnip for the men of Pine Valley! No wonder I don’t have anything “catty” to say about her! Now where is my saucer of milk?

I have not had time to watch the entire hour long interview but from little what I saw, it’s terrific! Eric is an incredibly brilliant and unique storyteller.
Yes, The Young and the Rosales will go back to being the The Young and The Restless. Mind you, I have nothing against the Rosales family. I kind of like them but they were crudely introduced and it seemed to come at the expense of vets like Victor, Neil and of course, Paul. Does anyone remember when The Brady Bunch’s dog Tiger suddenly disappeared and no one mentioned it thereafter? Or when Richie Cunningham’s older brother Chuck suddenly disappeared from Happy Days? Again, no one mentioned it. It’s worse with Paul as he’s been a mainstay on Y&R for 40 years. No one, not even his wife, asks,”Where’s Paul?” Where’s Waldo? Who the hell cares! Where’s Paul?

Here is the problem with the Rosales. They were shoved down our throats! Kyle should have met Lola outside of Jabot while she was working in her food truck. They should have ONLY focused on that relationship for awhile and in the next year, start bringing in one of her family members.

You’re exactly right, Timm. And speaking of Neil, I read the news today, oh boy. I don’t have the words. Unspeakably sad.

Yes, he lost his son and couldnt find a way to live with that pain. God bless him.

I liked what Mal did with Sharon ,I hated when they had her marry Victor, I wany Michael Muhney back,

I thought Mal Young started well but things have disappointed me as time went by. Yes, give Mr. Young props for saving Sharon. I love actor Sharon Case and this character who provides a moral center we need. Mr. Young did give us a great Abbott-centered story to allow Eileen Davidson’s/Ashley’s exit. I liked the flashbacks and lots of screen time for Jack and Tracy. I did not care for the Billy-Phyllis-Summer mess. And I wish we could see more of Dina Abbott and her battle with ALzheimer’s.

The entire “Jack is not an Abbott” storyline was one of the WORST storylines ever on “Y & R” – ridiculous, plot-driven and with no payoff!!

Mal Young’s tenure was nothing but an unmitigated disaster!!!

Wonderful interview…it was like sitting at the table with Eric who is very entertaining and interesting…I am so glad Eric cares for Y&R as much as long time fans and I pray that Josh and Tony get this once classic show back to the way it should be along with the beautiful classic background music, YES I said it again and will till the end of time…

I agree with you 100%, Kevin C!!!

THANK YOU Bart…

Kevin
I too miss the once beautiful and exciting background from before. I do believe in the last couple episodes though i ve been hearing some music from awhile back! What a difference!. Lets hope it continues and we get the original scores back. Not sure if the music directors changed?

THANK YOU Damien…I believe they added a couple of new composers and I also have noticed the additional music…I don’t think we will get any of the old scores back unless Y&R rehires Jack Allocco and David Kurtz which I hope they do…

He is an honest man. Some people do not know how to deal with a man or women who is perfectly blunt. Especially in Hollywood! I loved this interview.

Mal Young is a punk, you tell him Eric Braeden. I love Eric, he is straight to the point and a wonderful actor. Good riddance Mal Young.

Oh please. Victor One Note front and center again? No thanks. But he’s not the show for me. His granddaughter is missing and he calls his incompetent security staff! Hilarious.

I agres here, and another thing that bothers me is Katie sitting there playing and grandma takes her shoes off, pulls her warm, furry throw up and goes to sleep. What? What grandma just does that? Maybe falling asleep accidentlly, but Nicki just left the child unattended, and went to sleep.

Eric is one of the few y n r stars who actually stands up and takes ownership of the sad state of the show. Yes he has shared in contoversy with his costars however he also stands up and defends when a major star is heing sidelined for no reason except a new ep who wants to dismantle the show. Numerous times hes put himself in the doghouse to shed light on michael, paul, ashley and neils dissapearances or departures.
Kudos to him for having a set of balls and not being scared when some horrible hw or ep with no real vision tries to force their version of y n r on the fans!
Victor rules!
Its not his fault in the last decade his chatacter has been written as a tyrant. The Victor i grew up with was multi layered and powerful! He loved deeply but was ruthless all the same. His vendetta with Jack or his childrens suitors was contrasted with his special fondness for Ashley, Hope and Katherine!.. his love/ hate relationship with Nikki was intoxicating. The old ranch was a classic set as was his Newman office two examples of eps with no real connection to the show and destroyed them.
The fans who have been loyal for decadez finally deserve a headteam who will restore the show to its brilliant original state
Thank you Eric for being a poweful voice to shed light on the desparaging current state

So agree with you Damien…I have to say Eric Braeden is a part of Y&R along with all the actors/actresses which as a whole make Y&R along with the backstage personnel…I agree 100% with what Eric said about Bill Bell who is the reason that classic Y&R was such a wonderful show…Again I pray that Josh and Tony get this show back to where it should be, CBS/SONY take note and PLEASE listen to your long time fans…Also PLEASE have Tony Morina rehire Jack Allocco, David Kurtz along with John Nordstrom to compose the background music for Y&R…PLEASE

I am glad Mr. Braeden can have a forum to speak out and engage with fans. He clearly loves his show and works to keep it vital. I like that.

Victor has been the star for years. Without Victor there is no story line as he revolves around every characters even the Rosales family, I think Kyle should be with trouble maker Summer, Lola’s virginity is becoming very boring. I do have to say Mia has brought some spice to the Rosales family. Arturo is not my cup of tea, bring Scott back to stir up trouble for Abby and Arturo.
Poor Paul at least have him come back reoccurring. Paul is an original and the way they just let him go was very unkind to him and his fans

I think it’s so weird people think the Rosales clan is somehow infringing on the Newman and Abbott airtime or whatever when they all are in storylines supporting those established families. Rey is investigating the crime Sharon Newman, Victoria Newman Abbott and Nikki Newman are complicit in covering up. Arturo is with Abby Newman, whose mother is an Abbott. Lola is with Kyle Abbott. The Rosales family helps take the story of the Newmans and Abbotts forward. I love the way they have been integrated with them. Mr. Braeden is going to stick up for his job, of course, but I don’t think it’s ever healthy for a soap character to be constantly front and center. It makes a percentage of viewers burn out on the character, no matter how entertaining (It also emphasizes how ridiculous soap opera characters become over the long term.) Soaps were designed as ensemble vehicles and should stay that way. No one performer is above the show as a whole.

^^^^ “…Soaps were designed as ensemble vehicles and should stay that way. No one performer is above the show as a whole ”

Beautifully stated : Victor Newman is a boring stale old relic. the show is no longer dependent on his character

what would be the point ? he has no quality airtime with his wife, Nikki. or his children Nick and Victoria. they kowtow to his every whim. AND, like @GH it’s simply all propped for the first family of Genoa City. Victor doesn’t have .. any Abbott to combat

WITH the decline in Abbott clan AND Katherine Chancellor … AND stuck with the uneventful Newman family. it clearly was AND is time to move forward.

He’s 77 years old. there’s not enough go around left

come on.. who truly cares what he can still bring to the table

here’s hoping the new writing team can keep this show #1 for year 31… really?

Victor Newman?

I know many especially my friend Bobby who would stop watching if Victor was gone. He has had some of the most exciting and interesting storylines and his acting is outstanding, I do not think he is a relic he is an experienced and wonderful actor. He gets better and better. He is not seventy seven years old where did you hear that? I believe I read he is sixty four years old. If I am wrong I apologize but I am going to look it up right now.

I apologize yes he was born in 1941…so sorry I think I confused his age with another great Y and R actor.

Once the actor passes in real life, they better perform a miracle in a recast or bring back Muhney. He was perfect as the next great tyrant on Y&R for years to come!

He is 77. Look it up!

I hope and pray Josh Griffith can turn the “Y & R” ship around and set it back on smoother waters – Mal Young’s version of “Y & R” was nothing but a disaster: plot-driven, lame and drawn-out stories that have STILL yet to reach any type of conclusion; characters acting out of character and worst of all – the Rosales family!! These insipid, ill-conceived characters were foisted on long-time viewers all for the sake of PC diversity (PC sucks, BTW) and have been subsequently rejected – the ratings don’t lie!!

Keeping my fingers crossed that Josh and new EP Anthony Morina can bring “Y & R” back to the lever of “Must-see” viewing for this 35+ year viewer!!

I have no problem with the Rosales family. Without new characters, Y&R will end up like the incestuous B&B with endless stories that never engage or resolve. That said, I need to see the legacy characters grow and change. Newmans need this badly. It is time for Victor and Nikki to stop the games and be solidly married. There are more stories for them that way. There have been good starts with stories that could build suspense but they seem not planned for long term. Hence, we are disappointed with lack of payoff.

It frustrates me that Mal Young started off on Y&R so strongly and within the last year has seemed to completely lose focus of what Y&R should be about. The introduction of the Rosales family would have been less jarring if it was done over time and not forced onto viewers within a matter of months. Add on top of that the diminishing screen time for vets like Paul, Jill, Michael, Lauren & Neil, as well as the exits of Chelsea, Hilary, Ashley & Lily, Y&R feels like a completely different show than it was this time a year ago.

Y&R has made some smart decisions, like bringing back Nate, Kyle, Ana & Fen, because these are established characters with familial ties to Genoa City. The Rosales clan was all brand new, and now characters like Rey and Mia are front and center, chewing up screen-time that could be much more balanced with veteran characters.

B&B is going through a similar phase right now with Reese, Florence and Zoe in front-and-center story (not to mention the never ending Steffy/Liam/Hope drama) while ignoring veteran characters and cherished actors. No wonder Ingo Rademacher abandoned ship after only a year being on the show, and Katherine Kelly Land is taking an extended break to compete on an Australian reality show.

Both Y&R and B&B need to shape up in the coming months. Hopefully with the new leadership at Y&R, those changes will come into effect soon!

I enjoy the show MUCH more when Victor is NOT on. I have never liked the character….I dont get the characters appeal. He is just an old pervert. He has been married 17 times…mostly to women young enough to be his daughter or granddaughter. He is cruel and emotionally abusive. He plays with others sanity and mental health. He claims to love family but will disown any of them at any time for any reason. Victor is just an unpleasant character to watch. Always has been for me! I was like Go Mal!!!

Breaking News

Billy Miller’s Mother Issues Statement On His Passing

Patricia Miller, the mother of the late Billy Miller, has come forward and issued a touching statement on the tragic death of her beloved son at age 43.  The statement was shared by Billy’s longtime manager, Marnie Sparer, via social media.

Billy was best-known for his performances as Richie Nowack on All My Children, Billy Abbott of The Young and the Restless and Jason Morgan/Drew Cain on General Hospital, as well as countless primetime roles.  Throughout his career, Miller took home three Daytime Emmys for his work.

“I would like to share the following thoughts,” Patricia began. “I want to personally thank the many fans & personal friends for the overwhelming amount of love, prayers & condolences sent to me and my family on the devastating death of my beautiful son BJ – Billy Miller.”

Photo: JPI

Patricia continued with these sentiments, as she wanted to clear up any misinterpretations on this death: “He fought a long hard valiant battle with bipolar depression for years. He did everything he could to control the disease. He loved his family, his friends and his fans but in the end the disease won the fight and he surrendered his life. The other causes of death being told are not true. I wish they were but they just aren’t. We all loved him so much and are desperately trying to deal with our loss. I will have nothing further to say. Thanks for the love and support.”

The soap world as well as Billy’s family, friends, loved ones, and colleagues are in deep mourning for this talented man, who was gone too soon.

Share your thoughts, and send your condolences to Patricia Miller and the rest of Billy’s family, via the comment section below.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org

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‘The Talk’, Jennifer Hudson Show & Drew Barrymore Show Postpone Return to Production Due to Strikes

Following the backlash received by Drew Barrymore on her decision to return to production of her talk show amid the writers and actors strike, major behind the scenes changes have been implemented for three daytime television talk shows.

First, Barrymore changed course and announced on Sunday via Instagram, “I have listened to everyone, and I am making the decision to pause the show’s premiere until the strike is over.  I have no words to express my deepest apologies to anyone I have hurt and, of course, to our incredible team who works on the show and has made it what it is today. We really tried to find our way forward. And I truly hope for a resolution for the entire industry very soon.”

Next. CBS announced that The Talk, originally scheduled to resume today on Monday, September 18th, will put another pause in production in place. The official statement read: “The Talk is pausing its season premiere scheduled for September 18, CBS said in a statement. We will continue to evaluate plans for a new launch date.” WGA picketers targeted The Talk outside their CBS Radford studios since it announced its imminent return.

The Talk, co-hosted by Akbar Gbajabiamila, Amanda Kloots, Natalie Morales, Jerry O’Connell and Sheryl Underwood, went dark in May due to the writers strike.

Third, The Jennifer Hudson Show has followed the lead of ‘Drew’ and The Talk.  According to Deadline, a source close to the production confirmed that after much discussion, and at Hudson’s urging, the show is pausing production and its season two premiere, which was slated for Monday, September 18.

For the remaining daytime talkers, here is the status as of now:  Monday, Sherri Shepherd’s talk show Sherri will return.  It is not considered a ‘struck show’ covered by the Writers Guild of America.

Meanwhile, The Kelly Clarkson Show which moved from Los Angeles to New York City this summer has yet to announce a season premiere date yet. Finally, The View, which normally has two WGA writers on staff, has been airing during the strikes but withouts its writers.

So, what do you think about the decision of Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Hudson and The Talk to suspend production after they intended to move forward during the writers strike? Comment below.

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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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