The Young and The Restless actors that are no more with us

Being a pillar of daytime television, The Young and the Restless has captivated viewers with its complex narrative and ever-changing character arcs since its March 26, 1973 premiere.

Y&R has seen many talented performers who have made a lasting impression on viewers. Whether portraying antagonists or revered heroes, these performers helped define the program.

Though some of these performers are not with us anymore, their legacy lives on through the unforgettable parts they took on.

The Young and The Restless actors who passed away

Here is a list of all the The Young and The Restless actors who passed away:

1. Jennifer Leak (Gwen Sherman)

Best known for her performance as Gwen Sherman on Y&R, Jennifer Leak had a varied career in television and movies. She first became well-known in the 1968 movie Yours, Mine and Ours before really having an impact in the soap opera scene.

Apart from her Y&R schedule, she starred in Guiding Light, Another World, and One Life to Live. Following a struggle with developing supranuclear palsy, she died on March 18, 2024.

2. Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff (Mari Jo Mason)

The first actor to give life to Mari Jo Mason on The Young and the Restless mid-1990s, Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff, gave the character complexity and mystery. Her performance of the sly and mysterious character added interest to the plot.

Her involvement in Baywatch and Baywatch Nights helped her establish her reputation in the entertainment business outside daytime television. She was discovered dead at age 62 on March 5, 2025. Studies verified her cause of death as suicide.

3. Billy Miller (Billy Abbott)

Billy Miller, who won three Daytime Emmys, played Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless from 2008 to 2014. Billy became more fascinating and captivating as a result of his portrayal, which enhanced the character's richness and complexity. Miller's performance was lauded by both critics and audiences as it enriched the show's narrative.

Audience interest was piqued, and general compliments were given to his portrayal of the charming but irresponsible Abbott heir. Later Miller moved to General Hospital, where he assumed the roles of Jason Morgan and, subsequently, Drew Cain.

Versatility and a commitment to his trade defined his career. Miller sadly died on September 15, 2023, at the age of 43, following a protracted battle with manic depression.

4. James Houghton (Greg Foster)

James Houghton is well known for his portrayal as Greg Foster. He helped The Young and the Restless achieve early prominence. His performances shaped some of the show's most important storylines. This added to its enduring effect.

After shifting from acting to writing, Houghton rose to prominence in daytime television, influencing and elevating the genre with his narrative abilities. His influence continues to be seen throughout the business.

Four Emmy Awards for his writing work honored his services to The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful. Mesothelioma claimed Houghton's life on August 27, 2024. He left behind a legacy as both a performer and a storyteller.

Edited by Apoorva Jujjavarapu

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