Earlier this year, long-time Y&R cast member Jess Walton (Jill Abbott) somewhat unexpectedly stepped away from the show for what she dubbed "a short break."

In February, Walton signed a new contract with The Young and the Restless, but just two months later, Walton approached then-head writer Maria Bell about taking some time off. A publicist for Walton quickly dispelled Internet rumors that Walton was walking away from the show for good.

"The reason she is taking a break is because her son and his wife and are expecting a baby and Jess wants to be around for the birth of her first grandchild," the publicist explained at the time.

Now, Walton tells Nelson Branco's Soap Opera Uncensored that her six-month sabbatical is over.

"I return on October 5 and will be there for four to six weeks! It's a great story," enthuses the actress.

Walton joined the cast of The Young and the Restless in June 1987. She assumed the role from Brenda Dickson, who originated the role in 1973.