Eric Braeden, renowned for his portrayal of Victor Newman on <em>The Young and the Restless</em>, has captivated audiences for over four decades. Recently, he disclosed what he considers to be the “dumbest” decision ever made by the show’s creators, shedding light on a pivotal moment in its history.

In 2012, a controversial plot twist unfolded when the character Sharon Newman, under the influence of alcohol, set ablaze the iconic Newman family ranch. This shocking event not only altered the dynamics of the storyline but also left a lasting impact on the show’s legacy. The implications of this decision resonated with long-time viewers, as the ranch has been a central hub for many key relationships and plot developments.

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Eric expressed his disapproval of that storyline decision during an interview with TV Insider, stating, “It was an outrage and one of the dumbest decisions ever.” His candid reflection highlights the emotional connection actors have with the narratives they portray and their commitment to preserving the integrity of the show.

Fast forward to 2024, the set of the ranch was meticulously rebuilt, and Eric had the opportunity to revisit it. He shared his heartfelt reaction: “To be frank with you, when they asked me to take a look at it, I thought, ‘Oh, well.’ And then I sat there and I was a little overwhelmed. I really was touched because the old set meant so much to the Nikki/Victor relationship. The revitalized set beautifully captured the essence of the previous one, flooding me with nostalgia and emotions. It felt like stepping back into a cherished memory that we had almost forgotten.”

Reflecting on his remarkable 44-year tenure in such an iconic role, he remarked, “It means everything to me; I’d be a phony if I said that it doesn’t mean anything. To receive affirmation for what one has dedicated their life to is an incredibly fulfilling experience.” His dedication to the character and the show underscores the passion that drives him to continue performing.

When asked about his retirement plans, he confidently stated, “I will not, I don’t want to. I feel very well. I really do. The [bladder] cancer is under control and I will have another cystoscopy in about a month, and if that is negative, then I’ll be free for a while. It’s never gone completely. You have to always watch, but signs are very good. The new knee is fully repaired, and I do squats again and power cleans again and all that.” His positive outlook and determination reflect his resilience and commitment to his health and career.

Stay tuned to find out if The Young and the Restless will be renewed for another captivating season, as fans eagerly await the next chapter of this beloved series.