Y&R INTERVIEW: Trevor St. John on Tucker's future, romantic possibilities, and more

Trevor St. John opens up about the beauty of playing both the light and dark sides of The Young and the Restless' Tucker McCall and how he feels about the character's possible romantic pairings.

There was no doubt to most soap viewers that Trevor St. John would fit right in at The Young and the Restless as a recast for Tucker McCall. After a decade of starring on One Life to Live -- first as Walker Laurence, then as Todd Manning, and then as Victor Lord, Jr. -- he didn't just show that he can swim with the big boys, he also proved that he's one of the big boys. And just like fans speculated, he's already made a huge splash in the short time he's been in Genoa City.

As Y&R viewers know, Tucker isn't your average Joe. He's multifaceted, with both good sides and not so good sides. And it's this type of character in which St. John really shines. Soap Central caught up with the actor to get his take on his complicated new alter ego, how things are going at the CBS soap opera, and what might be ahead as Tucker continues to make himself at home in Genoa City.

Soap Central: What were your initial thoughts about Tucker, and how have those initial thoughts changed since you began playing him?

Trevor St. John: I instantly liked Tucker. He can be ruthless and cunning, but he also has a tender, big-hearted, and playful side. He's mischievous and kind, impulsive and deliberate all at once. I haven't really changed my mind about him. I still enjoy him.

Soap Central: What is the most interesting (or challenging) part of playing a villainous character who has supposedly turned over a new leaf and claims he is reformed but still shows signs of untrustworthiness?

St. John: Well, I don't see him as either villainous or heroic. Like I alluded to before, he can go from one to the other, or be both simultaneously in any moment. Should anybody trust him? Who can say for sure? I certainly can't. That's what's interesting to me. If a character is well written, you should never be able to pin him down as one thing or the other, or draw any hard and fast conclusions about him.

Soap Central: There was a near ten-year gap between Y&R and your last soap gig. How did you adjust to being back in this quick-paced genre, and did you experience any moments of nerves or insecurities during your first moments back in the soap game?

St. John: I get nervous in my first scene on any gig, no matter the genre, and it was no different on this one. But I've been at ease ever since, thanks to the lovely cast, directors, and crew. Compared to single-camera, slower-paced stuff, this genre feels like walking a tightrope in a windstorm. The question is, are you okay with failling? Apparently, I am. When I walk on set, I'm basically clueless as to how to do what I'm about to do, but I press ahead, anyway.

Soap Central: Tucker has been pursuing a reunion with Ashley (Eileen Davidson), but viewers have noticed a spark between Tucker and Phyllis (Michelle Stafford). What are your thoughts on a possible Tucker/Phyllis pairing?

St. John: I really like Michelle. She's a good actor and fun to play with, so, I'd definitely be open to that. But I'd be open to any pairing.

Soap Central: How has it been exploring Tucker's father-son relationship with Devon? And how is it working with Bryton James?

St. John: Bryton is a terrific guy and a talented and open actor. I enjoy his company and our scenes together. It's been fun exploring our relationship because it's so contentious. The writers have done a good job creating conflict that is both deep-rooted and superficial. We can't seem to communicate with each other or understand one another. Sounds like a lot of father-son relationships, doesn't it?

Soap Central: Y&R has been celebrating its 50th anniversary. Have you learned anything amusing, interesting, or entertaining about the series' history through the special episodes and promotional efforts?

St. John: I haven't yet, but if I'm still on the show in six months, ask me again, and maybe I'll have collected a good story or two.

Soap Central: Is there anything else you'd like to add -- perhaps any updates about your music career or anything else you think fans would be interested in?

St. John: We just signed a distribution deal for the film which I co-wrote, directed, and starred in, A Good Enough Day. I couldn't be more proud of the film, and I'm thrilled about the fact that it's going to be distributed. I'll be sure to let everyone know when it premieres and where they can catch it.

For more information about A Good Enough Day, which stars St. John as a terminally ill father who tries to reconnect with his daughter years after a family tragedy, click here and here.

How do you feel so far about Trevor St. John's time as Y&R's Tucker? Which romantic pairing are you hoping the writers have planned for the character? Do you believe Tucker has a "good" side and can build solid relationships with his family and others in Genoa City? Why or why not? We want to hear from you -- and there are many ways you can share your thoughts.