It’s the end of an era at The Young and the Restless.
TVLine has learned exclusively that Daytime Emmy winner Greg Rikaart — who has played reformed perp Kevin Fisher on TV’s No. 1 soap for the past 14 years — will exit the CBS sudser later this summer. Although reps for Y&R and Rikaart declined to comment, sources confirm that The Powers That Be opted not to renew Rikaart’s contract. [UPDATE: Rikaart has released a statement confirming his departure.]
When Rikaart debuted in 2003, his Internet predator character was only slated to appear on a short-term basis. But fans took to his villainous alter ego and Y&R subsequently signed him to a contract. Kevin has long since been redeemed, now works for the Genoa City Police and recently found out that he’s the father of on-again/off-again wife Chloe’s daughter.
Rikaart — whose primetime credits include guest stints on Bones, Major Crimes and CSI: Miami — will continue to tape episodes through June, with his swan song slated to air in August. Rumor has it that exec producer Mal Young and head writer Sally Sussman are leaving the door open for Kevin to return down the line (i.e. he’s not getting killed off).
Thoughts on Rikaart’s departure? Is the blow cushioned somewhat by the fact that Kevin will not head out of Genoa City in a body bag? Hit the comments with your thoughts.
