Jess Walton Returning as Jill Abbott on ‘The Young and the Restless’

In the land of the modern daytime soap opera, even the most die-hard fans often find it difficult to stay on top of the changing faces on their television screens. With only a handful of shows remaining in the fray, producers are constantly looking for new angles to attract or retain viewers, and a favorite device is the constant shuffling of actors and characters. A quick glance at the comings and goings on the set of “The Young and the Restless” reveals that the CBS staple is no stranger to this tactic and may, in fact, be the master in this regard. It’s easy to get jaded to the churn when ardly a week goes by without some jostling among the cast, but really major changes still perk up the ears of longtime fans. Such was the case when Jess Walton (Jill Foster Abbott Fenmore) announced back in the spring that she would be taking a leave of absence. Thankfully, Jill’s legions of followers can breathe a little easier as fall temperatures chill the air, because Walton announced in late August that she is on her way back to the show that has defined her career.

The character of Jill Foster has been a part of “The Young and the Restless” since its inception in 1973, and hers is the only original role that still factors into the current rendition. In the early years, Jill had her share of tragedy and triumphs, and she laid the groundwork for what was to come, but the character was mostly portrayed as a young lady trying to get her life in order. When Walton took the reins in 1987, though, Jill took a powerful turn and became a strong force in Genoa City. In the ensuing years, Walton has guided Jill through motherhood, marriage and divorce, careers and intrigue, and she has left an indelible stamp on the show that endures even amid all the uncertainty around her. That’s why fans felt so uneasy when Walton stepped away earlier in the year to attend to some family matters.

Infamous for hostile contract negotiations and subterfuge in speaking about the status of its biggest stars, the show’s management team has drawn a healthy dose of skepticism from viewers in the past. By association, announcements regarding casting changes have been cause for concern, especially when a fan favorite disappears from the scene for awhile. The fear, of course, is that the big name won’t return at all, and another little smidgen of the soap’s glue will be dissolved.

Luckily, loyal fans of “The Young and the Restless” don’t have to worry about Jess Walton or Jill Abbott. They’ll both be back to amaze and enrage before the cold Genoa City winter sets in.