Why do fans think Victor is leaving The Young and the Restless? Explained

Victor Newman has been a long-standing character on The Young and the Restless. His romance with Nikki and his ruthless business style are integral parts of the soap's storyline. However, fans have recently expressed concern about Eric Braeden, the actor who portrays Victor, potentially exiting the soap.

This concern arose after Soaps.com reported on October 18, 2024, that the actor had some negotiation issues with the show. While those negotiations were ultimately resolved, it is notable that he has successfully battled bladder cancer and has reported an improved health condition.

It is important to mention that there is no official news regarding his exit from the show. However, a recent flashback episode featured Victor and Nikki recalling their past, leaving fans wondering about Victor's future.

For new fans of The Young and the Restless, Eric Braeden's Victor Newman has been a central figure since the soap premiered in March 1973. Set in fictional Genoa City, the show showcases the dynamics between the resident families of the Newmans, the Abbotts, the Chancellors, the Baldwin-Fishers, and the Winters.

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The Young and the Restless: Fans concerned about Braeden's rumored exit

As reported by Soaps.com on September 28, 2024, there were discussions regarding Eric Braeden's potential departure from the show. Following this, the media outlet reported on October 18, 2024, that Braeden may leave the show as his agreement fell through. However, by October 24, Soap Opera Digest confirmed that Braeden would continue with the soap after signing a new contract.

Fans are also concerned about the actor's health. Braeden was diagnosed with bladder cancer in April 2023, but he was declared cancer-free in August 2023. However, he told Entertainment Tonight in April 2024 about his cancer diagnosis being "on hold."

To add to fans' unease, Braeden appeared in a flashback episode on November 8, 2024, where his character Victor and his on-screen romantic partner Nikki, played by Melody Thomas Scott, reminisced about their past happy moments and tough times.

This made Victor's fans uneasy, as many felt this could be a setup to announce his departure. However, there is no word about his exit from either the production team or from the actor himself.

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The Young and the Restless: A brief recap of Victor's journey on the soap

Victor Newman, played by Eric Braeden, has been the patriarch of the Newman family of Genoa City since 1980. He established his business empire, Newman Enterprises, and has had an on-and-off relationship with Nikki Reed, leading to multiple weddings and divorces on the soap.

Victor has been involved with other women, including his first wife, Julia, his assistant, Eve Howard, Ashley Abbott, Leanna Love, Hope Adams, and many more. However, his and Nikki's lasting love brought the two back to each other time and again.

The Newmans have a long-standing feud with the Abbott family, which Victor enjoys perpetuating. As per current plot dynamics, he is conspiring with Lily and Diane to bring down Jack Abbott and his son, Billy Abbott. He also plans to take over the Abbott's cosmetic business to expand his own enterprise.

While there is no news of Victor's departure from the soap, the actor's health concerns are true. Stay tuned to CBS on weekdays to catch the upcoming episodes of The Young and the Restless and find out more about Victor's story arc.