The Young and the Restless (Y&R) spoilers detailed all controversial on and off-screen changes during the past few years. But, 2016 began differently. The hiring of Mal Young, who eventually supplanted Jill Farren Phelps as executive producer, and the recent additions of Y&R alums Sally Sussman and Kay Alden, clearly show that an old-school philosophy is being applied to this iconic daytime drama.
Daytime Confidential points out: “Alden began her career at Y&R six months after its 1973 premiere. Back then, she worked as a script writer under the tutelage of the serial’s co-creator William J. Bell. She stayed with the show in various capacities until 2006, serving as head writer from 1998-2006.“
Sally Sussman is also pumped to have her colleague back on board. “I am so thrilled to be working with Kay again. I can’t ever imagine doing Y&R without her.”
CBS Entertainment Executive Vice-President Angelica McDaniel announced: “Welcoming Kay back to The Young and the Restless, joining Sally Sussman and Mal Young, continues our commitment to telling the most powerful stories while honoring the legacy of daytime’s No. 1 drama.”
Soap opera fans are to be commended for their fiercely loyal. It should also be noted that segments within this particular fan base, especially Y&R’s, can also become ferocious. Some people purposely provoke social media storms, which is nothing more than a modern form of group gossip, if they believe that ‘their’ show is under attack.
Yes, minor annoyances can cause momentary skirmishes among the masses. But, the instances in question refer to obvious major structural changes within a beloved soap.
No one should belittle the feelings such inciters elicit. These people are often early recognizers of legitimate problems. Their subsequent social media rants actually become calls to arm. Fans want to join with other like-minded souls to influence their soap’s direction, which is totally understandable when only four broadcast network shows remain this genre remain.
It is not unreasonable to believe that poor programming can quickly lead to cancellation. That’s happened various times within the last few decades as the audience for this genre appears to have changed and shrunken. So, in an effort to ensure ongoing survival, some fans urge a return to practices that satisfied and sustained soap opera audiences in years past.
Young was recruited from across the pond. His BBC credentials, including Dr. Who and The EastEnders in particular, offered legitimate encouragement to savvy fans. To-date, he’s applied a very different visual feel into Genoa City. A balance between classic color hues, meaningful music backdrops and characters, both old and new, being projected artfully is being achieved.
Chuck Pratt, Jr’s removal felt inevitable after Phelps was let go in June. Sussman has a solid resume and the potential to succeed as the show’s new head writer. This week’s announced addition of fellow Y&R alum Kay Alden, as a story consultant, further fuels the nostalgia-based decisions this iconic show clearly is aiming for.
So, some fans consistent calls for regime change appear to have been addressed. Now, everyone will soon see if what’s been called for looks better than what’s been offered to the audience in recent years.
CDL is a leading source for everything linked to The Young and the Restless. Check back regularly for Y&R spoilers and news!
Have a biiiig break between scenes. You know what that means! #WigClosetRaid #BetterCallChelseaWithTheRedHair #YR pic.twitter.com/nVrY20OM1K
— Melissa Claire Egan (@MClaireEgan) September 21, 2016
I'm pinching myself!The amazing & oh-so talented #KayAlden is coming back 2 YR as StoryConsultant!W/Sally Sussman onboard too we R THRILLED!
— Melody Thomas Scott (@MelodyThomasSco) September 22, 2016
