For over five decades, The Young and the Restless has captivated CBS audiences with its gripping drama, passionate romances, and ever-twisting betrayals. The long-running soap opera, set in the fictional town of Genoa City, has remained a daytime television staple since it debuted in 1973, consistently delivering compelling storytelling that keeps viewers coming back for more. While the show has evolved with new faces and fresh storylines, its heart has always been the same – powerful performances from a talented cast that bring the drama to life.
In 2025, The Young and the Restless remains as engaging as ever, with a perfect blend of longtime favorites and newer additions. Legacy Y&R characters continue to shape the show’s core, their histories woven into the very fabric of Genoa City. From the iconic Newman and Abbott family feuds to shocking comebacks and tragic betrayals, the cast plays a crucial role in making these stories unforgettable. The major players in Genoa City, and the talented actors who bring them to life, clincude a mixture of newcomers and series veterans in 2025, with each an integral piece to the decades-spanning delight that is Y&R.
Melody Thomas Scott (1979-Present)
Plays Nikki Newman
Character: Melody Thomas Scott has been the heart and soul of The Young and the Restless for over four decades, portraying the resilient Nikki Newman since 1979. Nikki has been through it all—tumultuous romances, shocking scandals, and personal battles that have shaped her into one of Genoa City’s most beloved matriarchs. Whether she’s facing off against Victor Newman or protecting her children, Nikki remains a powerful force in the series.
Actor: Born in Los Angeles in 1956, Scott began acting as a child, appearing in films like The Beguiled (1971) before landing the role that would define her career. Beyond The Young and the Restless, she has guest-starred in several primetime series and is a passionate advocate for childhood abuse survivors, sharing her own story in her memoir, Always Young and Restless. With over 45 years on the show, she remains a cornerstone of Genoa City’s ever-evolving drama.
Eric Braeden (1980-Present)
Plays Victor Newman
Character: As the indomitable Victor Newman, Eric Braeden has reigned over Genoa City since 1980, making him one of daytime television’s most recognizable faces. Victor, the cunning and powerful businessman, has built an empire while navigating fiery romances and intense rivalries. His iconic on-again, off-again relationship with Nikki Newman has been at the heart of the series for decades, cementing them as a legendary soap couple.
Actor: Eric Braeden, born in Germany in 1941, had a thriving career before The Young and the Restless, starring in classic TV shows like The Rat Patrol and films such as Titanic (1997), where he played John Jacob Astor IV. His commanding screen presence and deep voice make him a perfect fit for the role of Victor, and after more than 40 years, he remains a pillar of the series. Despite teasing retirement in recent years, Braeden continues to be a defining presence in Genoa City.
Kate Linder (1982-Present)
Plays Esther Valentine
Character: Since 1982, Kate Linder has brought warmth and humor to The Young and the Restless as Esther Valentine, the longtime housekeeper and confidante of the late Katherine Chancellor. While often underestimated, Esther has proven to be more than just domestic help – she’s a fierce protector of her loved ones and a beloved fixture in Genoa City.
Actor: Linder was born in Pasadena, California, in 1947 and famously kept her job as a flight attendant for United Airlines even after landing her Y&R role. Outside of the soap world, she’s appeared in indie films and is deeply involved in charity work, particularly with the ALS Association. With over 40 years in the role, Linder remains a fan favorite, ensuring that Esther’s presence continues to bring heart and nostalgia to the show.
Peter Bergman (1989-Present)
Plays Jack Abbott
Character: Peter Bergman stepped into the role of Jack Abbott in 1989 and has since made the charming yet troubled businessman one of The Young and the Restless’ most compelling characters. As the head of Jabot Cosmetics, Jack has battled both professional and personal demons, often clashing with Victor Newman in one of the show’s longest-running rivalries. His complicated love life, especially his on-and-off relationship with Phyllis Summers, continues to intrigue fans.
Actor: Peter Bergman, born in 1953, had a successful soap career before Y&R, portraying Cliff Warner on All My Children. His portrayal of Jack has earned him multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, and he remains a central figure in the show. Off-screen, Bergman is known for his warm personality and dedication to the soap genre, solidifying his place as a true legend of daytime television.
Christian LeBlanc (1991-Present)
Plays Michael Baldwin
Character: Christian LeBlanc made his Young and the Restless debut in 1991 as Michael Baldwin, a character who underwent one of the show’s most memorable redemptions. Initially introduced as a shady lawyer, Michael transformed into a respected legal mind and devoted family man, all while navigating dramatic twists in Genoa City’s courtrooms and beyond.
Actor: Born in 1958 in North Carolina, Christian LeBlanc has won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for his portrayal of Michael, earning recognition for his ability to balance charm and intensity. Beyond Y&R, he has guest-starred on shows like In the Heat of the Night and even pursued artistic endeavors as a painter. With his mix of wit, intelligence, and emotional depth, LeBlanc ensures that Michael Baldwin remains a crucial part of The Young and the Restless.
Michelle Stafford (1994-Present)
Plays Phyllis Summers
Character: Michelle Stafford first stepped into the role of Phyllis Summers in 1994, instantly making a mark as one of The Young and the Restless’ most unpredictable and captivating characters. Phyllis has been at the center of some of Genoa City’s most dramatic storylines, from revenge plots to shocking betrayals. Her fiery personality, cunning intelligence, and relentless ambition have kept fans enthralled for decades.
Actor: Born in Chicago in 1965, Stafford has enjoyed a successful career beyond Y&R, starring in the soap General Hospital as Nina Reeves and appearing in primetime series like Pacific Palisades. She’s also ventured into producing and directing. Her portrayal of Phyllis has earned her multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, cementing her status as a soap opera icon. Whether stirring up trouble or fighting for those she loves, Phyllis remains a powerhouse character, and Stafford’s performance continues to shine in 2025.
Sharon Case (1994-Present)
Plays Sharon Rosales
Character: Sharon Case has been a Young and the Restless staple since 1994, portraying the deeply layered Sharon Rosales (formerly Newman). Sharon’s journey has been one of love, loss, and resilience, with her battle with mental health adding emotional depth to her character. As a businesswoman, mother, and romantic lead, Sharon has been central to Genoa City’s biggest storylines.
Actor: Sharon Case was born in Detroit in 1971 and initially pursued modeling before transitioning to acting. She got her start in daytime television with General Hospital before finding her home on Y&R. Outside of the soap world, she has dabbled in fashion design and philanthropy. Her performance as Sharon has won her multiple awards, and in 2025, she remains a pivotal character, proving that even after 30 years, she still has new stories to tell.
Joshua Morrow (1994-Present)
Plays Nicholas Newman
Character: Since 1994, Joshua Morrow has played Nicholas Newman, the charming yet troubled heir to the Newman empire. Nick’s life has been filled with passionate romances, business rivalries, and family turmoil, often caught between the expectations of his father, Victor, and his own desires. His relationships, particularly with Sharon and Phyllis, have defined some of Y&R’s most unforgettable moments.
Actor: Born in Juneau, Alaska, in 1974, Morrow initially pursued a music career before landing his breakout role on The Young and the Restless. Outside of the show, he was a member of the short-lived boy band 3Deep and has guest-starred in television movies. As Nick continues to navigate
love, business, and fatherhood in 2025, Morrow’s performance ensures that he remains one of the most beloved leading men in Genoa City.
Camryn Grimes (1997-Present)
Plays Mariah Copeland
Character: Camryn Grimes joined The Young and the Restless in 1997 as Cassie Newman, capturing hearts with her portrayal of Nick and Sharon’s sweet and intelligent daughter. Cassie’s tragic death in 2005 was one of the show’s most heartbreaking moments, but Grimes remained connected to Y&R, later returning as Cassie’s twin sister, Mariah Copeland.
Actor: Camryn Grimes was born in 1990 in California and made history as the youngest actress to win a Daytime Emmy Award for her work on Y&R. She has also appeared in primetime shows like NCIS and The Mentalist. In 2025, she remains a fan favorite, bringing new depth to Mariah while honoring Cassie’s legacy. Her ability to portray both innocence and strength has made her one of Y&R’s standout performers.
Susan Walters (2001-Present)
Plays Diane Jenkins Abbott
Diane in The Young and the Restless
Character: Susan Walters made her debut as Diane Jenkins in 2001, playing one of The Young and the Restless’ most intriguing villains. Diane has manipulated, schemed, and even faked her own death, yet her 2022 return marked a major turning point, showing a more complex and, at times, redeemed side of the character. Now married to Jack Abbott, Diane continues to shake up Genoa City.
Actor: Suan Walters, born in Atlanta in 1963, has had a successful career in television, appearing in The Vampire Diaries, Teen Wolf, and One Tree Hill. She has also worked extensively in film and TV movies. Her return to Y&R was met with excitement, as she brings sophistication and sharp wit to Diane. Even in 2025, her character remains unpredictable, ensuring that her presence keeps fans on their toes.
Christel Khalil (2002-Present)
Plays Lily Winters
Character: Christel Khalil has portrayed Lily Winters since 2002, evolving from a rebellious teen to a powerful businesswoman. As the daughter of the legendary Drucilla Winters, Lily has lived through tumultuous relationships, personal tragedies, and a rise in the corporate world. In recent years, she has cemented her place as a major player in Chancellor-Winters, proving she’s more than just a legacy character.
Actor: Born in Los Angeles in 1987, Christel Khalil has been a standout member of the Y&R cast, earning a Daytime Emmy Award for her performance. Outside of soaps, she has appeared in shows like NCIS: Los Angeles and Malcolm in the Middle. In 2025, Lily continues to be a strong and determined force in Genoa City, balancing work, love, and family drama with grace.
Michael Graziadei (2004-Present)
Plays Daniel Romalotti
Character: Since 2004, Michael Graziadei has played Daniel Romalotti, the artistic and rebellious son of Phyllis Summers. Daniel’s journey has taken him from Genoa City to the art world and back again, with his complicated relationships and past mistakes shaping his future. His connection to Lily Winters remains one of the show’s most enduring friendships-turned-romances.
Actor: Born in Germany in 1979, Michael Graziadei has also built a strong career outside of Y&R, starring in series like True Detective and The Lincoln Lawyer as Jeff Golantz. His return to The Young and the Restless in recent years was welcomed by fans of the soap, as Daniel remains a fascinating character with a rich history.
Bryton James (2004-Present)
Plays Devon Hamilton
Character: Bryton James has played Devon Hamilton since 2004, making him one of Y&R’s most prominent younger generation characters. Originally introduced as a foster child taken in by the Winters family, Devon has grown into a successful music mogul and business executive, shaping Chancellor-Winters alongside Lily. His relationships, including his complex bond with Elena and Amanda, have made for some of the show’s most gripping drama.
Actor: Born in 1986, Bryton James was a child star, known for his role on Family Matters before transitioning to soaps. He has won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for his Y&R performance and continues to balance acting with his passion for music and philanthropy. In 2025, Devon remains a cornerstone of Genoa City’s business and social scene and a mainstay of The Young and the Restless cast.
Amelia Heinle (2005-Present)
Plays Victoria Newman
Character: Amelia Heinle has played Victoria Newman since 2005, taking over the role of Victor and Nikki’s ambitious and headstrong daughter. As CEO of Newman Enterprises, Victoria has fought to prove herself worthy of the family empire, often clashing with her father. Her complicated love life, particularly her past with Billy Abbott, has been a central part of her character’s journey.
Actor: Amelia Heinle, born in Arizona in 1973, has had a long career in soaps, previously starring in Loving and All My Children. She has won multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for her portrayal of Victoria, making her one of Y&R’s strongest leading ladies. In 2025, her character remains at the heart of Genoa City’s power struggles.
Melissa Claire Egan (2011-Present)
Plays Chelsea Lawson
Character: Since 2011, Melissa Claire Egan has portrayed Chelsea Lawson, a con artist-turned-mother who has grown into one of Y&R’s most complex characters. Chelsea’s battles with mental health, motherhood, and romance have made her storylines both emotional and compelling.
Actor: Born in 1981, Melissa Claire Egan previously starred in All My Children before joining Y&R. Outside of soaps, she has appeared in primetime TV and Hallmark movies. Chelsea remains a beloved character in 2025, proving that redemption and second chances are possible in Genoa City.
