A major shift behind the scenes of The Young and the Restless is opening up thrilling new possibilities for Genoa City. With a significant head writing transition now underway, co-head writers Jamey Giddens and Dan O’Connor have officially taken over for Josh Griffith. As fans eagerly await the moment O’Connor and Giddens’ storylines begin airing on CBS, the changing of the guard creates a prime opportunity to bring long-absent characters back into the fold.
There are four major character returns that seem uniquely suited to ignite massive drama under the new writing team.
1. Avery Bailey Clark
Avery Bailey Clark—last portrayed by Jessica Collins—remains a goldmine of untapped drama. As the sister of Phyllis Summers, Avery’s presence alone could instantly stir up fierce family tensions and sibling rivalries.
Beyond her family ties, Avery shares a rich romantic history with Nick Newman. A surprise reconnection between the former lovers could severely shake up the current romantic landscape in town. Furthermore, Avery’s professional background as a sharp attorney means she could easily get tangled up in the high-stakes legal battles constantly plaguing Genoa City. Whether Jessica Collins steps back into the role or the soap decides to bring in a recast, Avery would make an outstanding addition to the canvas.
2. Tucker McCall
Tucker McCall, last played by Trevor St. John, exited the show rather abruptly, leaving behind a trail of unfinished business with several key players. It was mentioned on screen that Tucker endured a prison stint in India, but after doing some serious soul-searching, he could easily return to fight for the people he left behind.
What if Tucker simply cannot get Audra Charles off his mind and comes back determined to prove his love for her is genuine? On a family level, Tucker might also focus on rebuilding his fragile bond with his son, Devon Winters, and his grandson, Dominic Winters.
If Devon decides he wants to break up Cane Ashby’s reunion with Lily Winters, Devon might find himself in need of a powerful ally against Cane. Tucker could vow to step up and help his son achieve his goals. Whether Trevor St. John reprised the role or a new actor took over, Tucker’s return would bring welcome fireworks.
3. Summer Newman
No character return list would be complete without Summer Newman, last played by Allison Lanier. Although Summer is mentioned constantly by her family, she remains stuck off-screen in Italy while an incredible amount of story potential sits waiting for her at home.
It would be thoroughly captivating to watch Summer’s reaction if she learns about Kyle Abbott and Victoria Newman’s unexpected romantic entanglement. Summer’s presence is also sorely needed by her parents, Nick and Phyllis, who could benefit from having their daughter back in their daily lives. Whether the soap reached out to Hunter King, kept Allison Lanier, or cast a brand-new actress, bringing Summer back to Genoa City feels like an absolute necessity.
4. Reed Hellstrom
It has been far too long since viewers last saw Reed Hellstrom, the son of Victoria and J.T. Hellstrom, who was last played by Tristan Lake Leabu. The timing couldn’t be better for Reed to come home and weigh in on his mother’s notoriously chaotic personal life—especially once Victoria’s secretive connection to Kyle eventually blows up into a full-scale scandal.
Beyond diving into his family’s mess, a grown-up Reed might even find a brand-new love interest among the local eligible bachelorettes.
As The Young and the Restless prepares to enter this brand-new era under Giddens and O’Connor, teasers suggest some massive comebacks could easily be brewing behind the scenes. Which of these iconic characters would you be most excited to see walk back into Genoa City?
