21 “Shocking Ways” These Y&R Actors Passed Away
For more than five decades, The Young and the Restless has captivated audiences with tales of love, betrayal, ambition, and redemption. But behind the scenes, the lives of some of its most memorable stars have ended in ways just as dramatic — and often, heartbreaking — as anything ever scripted for Genoa City.
Following our earlier tribute to 51 Y&R alumni who left us too soon, we now turn to 21 more beloved actors — some lost decades ago, others taken just recently in 2025. Their stories remind us not only of the fragility of life but also of the enduring impact they’ve had on television’s most iconic daytime drama.
1. Peter Navy Tuiasosopo (Koa, 2011)
Known to Y&R fans as Koa, a friendly store clerk and trusted contact of Victor Newman during his Hawaiian adventure in 2011, Peter Navy Tuiasosopo was more than a guest star — he was a fan favorite for his warm, commanding presence. Sadly, Peter passed away unexpectedly from heart complications. His sudden loss shocked many who remembered his broad smile and generous spirit, both on and off-screen.
2. James H. Houghton (Greg Foster, Original Cast)
An Emmy-winning writer and actor, James Houghton was part of the show’s earliest years, portraying Greg Foster, the compassionate brother to Jill Foster. Beyond acting, Houghton became a crucial creative voice behind Y&R, penning some of its most emotional storylines. His death, following a difficult battle with peritoneal mesothelioma — a rare cancer — marked the end of an era.
3. Pamela Bach (Mari Jo Mason)
Before she became known as David Hasselhoff’s ex-wife, Pamela Bach originated the role of Mari Jo Mason, one of Genoa City’s most complex women. Her tragic passing by self-inflicted gunshot in 2025 left fans and colleagues heartbroken. Despite her turbulent personal life, Bach was remembered for her charm, passion, and the layered vulnerability she brought to her character.
4. Abby Dalton (Lydia Summers)
Abby Dalton, who graced Y&R as Lydia Summers, passed away after a long illness. A veteran of television, Dalton’s grace and classic Hollywood charisma added sophistication to every scene. Her legacy continues to inspire a generation of soap actresses who followed in her footsteps.
5. Tom Felleghy (Randall Kirby, 1992)
Tom Felleghy portrayed Randall Kirby in the early 1990s, a role that, though brief, left an indelible mark on viewers. Sadly, his life was cut short due to complications from AIDS — a devastating loss at a time when the entertainment world was only beginning to confront the epidemic’s toll.
6. Arlene Martel (Mavis MacDonald)
Known to sci-fi fans for her role on Star Trek, Arlene Martel also appeared on The Young and the Restless as Mavis MacDonald. Her career spanned decades and genres, but her passing from a sudden heart attack reminded fans of how unexpectedly we can lose even the brightest talents.
7. Melinda O’Fee (Jill Foster Abbott, 1984)
In 1984, Melinda O’Fee briefly took over as Jill Foster Abbott, one of the most iconic characters in Y&R history. Her tenure may have been short, but her elegance and poise left an impression. She tragically suffered a massive stroke, passing away far too soon.
8. Glenn Corbett (James Lake, 1983)
Glenn Corbett, who appeared as James Lake, brought quiet strength and gravitas to his role. A decorated actor of both film and television, Corbett succumbed to lung cancer, leaving behind a rich legacy of performances across Hollywood’s golden age.
9. James Westmoreland (Decker)
As Decker, Westmoreland added depth to the show’s sprawling ensemble. His calm, dignified presence extended beyond his time on-screen. He passed away peacefully, leaving behind fond memories among colleagues and fans who remembered his professionalism and kindness.
10. Gene Bates (Edith Mills, 1981)
Gene Bates, who played Edith Mills, was known for her sincerity and warmth. Off-screen, she faced a fierce battle with breast cancer. Her courage inspired many of her castmates, and her passing served as a sobering reminder of life’s fragility.
11. Giana Michaels (Karen Richards)
Giana Michaels brought fire and intensity to her role as Karen Richards. Behind the camera, she was known for her sense of humor and passion for storytelling. Her passing after a battle with lymphoma was deeply felt within the Y&R family.
12. John Lupton (Everett Thornton)
As Everett Thornton, Lupton brought an old-Hollywood charm that elevated every scene he touched. A veteran actor with decades of experience, Lupton lost his life to cancer, but his work continues to resonate with longtime fans of the show.
13. Victor Mojica (Felipe Ramirez)
Victor Mojica’s turn as Felipe Ramirez was brief but unforgettable. Known for his commanding presence and versatility, Mojica’s passing was a quiet one, yet the legacy of his diverse career in film and television remains impactful.
14. Jeffrey Deuel (Dave Campbell)
Jeffrey Deuel portrayed Dave Campbell with intensity and emotional depth. Sadly, Deuel succumbed to pulmonary disease, leaving behind a career that showcased his range across both daytime and primetime television.
15. Carl Brook (Maestro Ernesto Fouchcha)
Carl Brook’s decade-long portrayal of Maestro Ernesto Fouchcha made him a household name among loyal Y&R viewers. His death from natural causes marked the end of an era for those who remembered his wise, guiding presence in the series.
16. Jeff Cooper (Derek Thurston, Original)
As the original Derek Thurston, Jeff Cooper brought sophistication and intrigue to one of Y&R’s most memorable early roles. His cause of death remains undisclosed, adding a layer of mystery to a career defined by enigmatic characters.
17. Gregory Walcott (Ralph Olsen)
Gregory Walcott, remembered for his understated yet powerful performance as Ralph Olsen, passed away peacefully. A veteran actor and consummate professional, Walcott’s influence on the soap world remains evident in those he mentored.
18. Jodean Lawrence (Regina Henderson, 1975)
A fan favorite from the show’s early years, Jodean Lawrence portrayed Regina Henderson in 1975. Known for her radiant smile and kind nature, Lawrence passed away from natural causes, leaving behind fond memories of her grace and talent.
19. Barry Cahill (Sam Powers, 1974–1975)
Barry Cahill brought sincerity and strength to his portrayal of Sam Powers during the show’s formative years. His passing was met with an outpouring of tributes from colleagues who remembered his humility and warmth.
20. Rick Jason (Warner Wilson)
Rick Jason, who embodied the confident attorney Warner Wilson, died tragically by a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His death stunned the entertainment community, reminding many of the unseen struggles faced by those who bring light to others on-screen.
21. Bert Bennett (Announcer)
Bert Bennett, the longtime voice behind The Young and the Restless, was never seen but always heard — guiding generations of viewers through love triangles, heartbreaks, and triumphs. His passing marked not just the loss of a man, but of a voice synonymous with the show’s legacy.
Remembering Their Legacy
From bold newcomers to seasoned veterans, these 21 artists helped shape The Young and the Restless into the phenomenon it remains today. Their portrayals brought authenticity, emotion, and humanity to Genoa City — a world that continues to thrive because of their work.
As fans, we honor them not only for the characters they brought to life but for the humanity they shared with audiences across the decades. Their stories may have ended, but their impact will forever echo through the halls of daytime television.