AMP in the post
The actor, who plays Paul Williams, has been demoted to a recurring status, which essentially means he would rarely be seen on Y&R, if at all.
In a response to a fan tweet regarding his demotion, Davidson shared that he felt hurt. “It does hurt, to be honest.” Apparently, the soap is taking a “new direction,” and despite being the longest running Y&R cast member, Doug has been left out of this.
Many fans have expressed their disappointment to “The Young and the Restless” management for treating Doug like this, especially after he dedicated four decades to the show. There are now a couple of online petitions created by fans in a bid to convince Y&R to bring Davidson back on contract.
Even his colleagues have shown their support to Davidson. Soap veteran Stephen Nichols, who went through the same thing on “Days of Our Lives,” called Doug’s downgrade “an absolute travesty.”
Always expect the unexpected on #YR! Next week the mystery of Jack’s father grows while relationships blossom in Genoa City. pic.twitter.com/hBi7Q1vldW
— Young and Restless (@YandR_CBS) September 14, 2018
AMP in the post
“This man has not only acted his ass off at #YR for 40 years but is a man of the utmost integrity. I am saddened by this news,” he added.
His friend, Rick Springfield, shared a link of a petition on Twitter, and said, “Another show needs to snap this giant hearted brilliant actor up!”
However, when asked if he would join other soaps, Davidson said his “history and loyalty is with Y&R.” And although he feels hurt for getting practically fired, the actor said he would return to “The Young and the Restless” in a snap should they ask him to.
Doug Davidson joined Y&R in May 1978. He revealed that his contract was not renewed earlier in January and he was dropped to recurring status. Right now, he only has one taped episode left, and there is no word yet regarding future schedules.
Read more Celebrating the Soaps news, spoilers, and gossip on our The Young & The Restless homepage
AMP in the post
Really disappointed in the Y&R that they let Doug go. Won’t be watching much longer.
I can’t BELIEVE Y&R would do this!! Give Doug a good story line and KEEP HIM!
I stopped watching months ago.. sorry this is happening to Doug. These writers are losing a lot of there longest viewers .
Very disappointed in young and restless . Doug is one great actor and should still be on the show . I may stop watching as you guys screwed up
Bring Paul back and fire CHRISTINE. Can’t stand her. She can’t act. Paul has been there since day 1 and you’re firing the wrong actors. Fire yourself too while you’re at it.
I are nutty. Leave Paul.