Everybody Loves Raymond 30th Anniversary Reunion

“Twenty years since the show’s finale episode, audiences are invited back to the recreated Barone living room for an unforgettable evening with America’s favorite family.” The special will feature “candid conversations” with the former stars as well as never-before-seen outtakes and commentary."

-CBS announcement

Great news for Everybody Loves Raymond fans.  A television special, marking the 30th anniversary of the show, will air on CBS and Paramount+ on Monday, November 24, 2025.   Everybody Loves Raymond, starring Ray Romano, debuted on September 13, 1996 and ran for nine seasons until May 16, 2005, with a total of 210 episodes.  

Ray Romano and series creator Phil Rosenthal will host the special about the popular sitcom.  Everybody Loves Raymond followed the fortunes of sportswriter Ray Barone (Romano), his wife Debra and their three children, plus his NYPD police officer brother Robert.  Raymond's  meddling parents lived just across the street from their son in Lynbrook, Long Island, New York.  

Ray Romano as Ray Barone

Ray Romano

Also appearing on the 90-minute special will be Patricia Heaton, who played Debra Barone, Brad Garrett, who played Robert Barone, and Monica Horan, who played Amy McDougall.  After Raymond ended its run, Patricia Heaton starred as Frankie Heck in the hit ABC sitcom The Middle., Brad Garrett's Robert character was inspired by Ray Romano's real-life brother, Richard, an NYPD sergeant who later became a screenwriter and filmmaker.  Monica Hora played Amy, Robert's girlfriend and later wife from 1997 to 2005 (66 episodes).  Horan has been married to Phil Rosenthal, the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, since 1990.

Patricia Heaton

Brad Garrett as Robert Barone

Brad Garrett

Monica Horan

Madylin Sweeten and Sullivan Sweeten, will also appear on the special.  They played Ray and Debra's children, Alexandra "Ally" Barone and  Michael Barone, and they are real-life siblings.  Tragically, Sullivan's identical twin brother, Sawyer Sweeten, who played Geoffrey Barone, shot himself to death at the age of 19.  He was a month shy of his 20th birthday.  His twin, Sullivan. has largely stepped back from acting since his time on Everybody Loves Raymond.

Sawyer Sweeten

Sullivan Sweeten

Madylin Sweeten, born June 27, 1991,literally grew up on the show, from a child to a teen.  On August 31, 2018, Madylin married Sean Durie, a film and television actor.  He is primarily known for voiceovers, particularly in video games.  Sean and Madylin have one child.  The couple has chosen to keep their child's identity private.

Madylin Sweeten as young Ally.

Madylin and Sean

The special will include a tribute to Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle, who played Frank and Marie Barone, the parents of Ray and Robert.  Boyle  passed away on December 12  2006 at the age of 71. He died at New York Presbyterian Hospital after suffering from multiple myeloma and heart disease. Roberts passed away on April 17, 2016 at the age of 90.  She died in her sleep after suffering a massive stroke.

Peter Boyle

Doris Roberts

Over its nine-season run, Everybody Loves Raymond garnered many awards and accolades.  It was nominated for 69 Primetime Emmy Awards, winning 15, including Outstanding Comedy series.  Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Brad Garrett and Doris Roberts received individual honours.

SOURCES:  People magazine, "The Everybody Loves Raymond Cast is Reuniting for a 30th Anniversary Reunion Special," by Victoria Edel, October 1, 2025; Rewind, "'Everybody Loves Raymond' 30th Anniversary Special Brings Cast Back to CBS," by Lauren Novak, October 29, 2025; Wikipedia; Internet Movie Database (IMDb) 

- Joanne

Whatever happened to Lisa Gerritsen (Bess on The Mary Tyler Moore Show)

Lisa Gerritsen is a former child star who is most well known for her role as Bess Lindstrom on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and its spinoff, Phyllis.  She was born Lisa Orszag in Los Angeles, California on December 21, 1957, the daughter of Ronald Aleander Orszag.  The name of her mother is not mentioned in available sources.  

Lisa has a remarkable acting pedigree.  Her great-great grandmother was Caroline "Caro" True Boardman (1857-1908), an actress and acting coach in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  Lisa is  also the great-granddaughter of silent film actors Virginia True Boardman (born Margaret Shields in 1889) and her husband, William "True" Boardman (1882-1918)   William "True" Boardman appeared in many silent films, including Tarzan of the Apes (1918) and The Further Adventures of Stingaree (1917).  Sadly, he passed away at the age of 36,  a victim of the flu epidemic of 1918.  Virginia True Boardman, however, lived until 1971.  The couple has one child, a son named True Eames Boardman, Lisa's grandfather.

Virginia True Boardman

William" True"  Boardman in 1910

True Eames Boardman (1909-2003) was a child actor and a screen writer.  As a child, he worked alongside Charlie Chapman in the 1918 silent film Shoulder Arms.  He played one of Chaplin's three sons in cut domestic scenes, intended for the beginning of the film.  However, he was best recognized as a screen writer.  His credits include the classic Abbott and Costello film Pardon My Sarong.

True Eames Boardman

Lisa's mother and her grandfather, were instrumental in kick starting her acting career.  At the age of eight, she acted in a local summer parks production.  It wasn't long before she became a  very busy child actor during the late 1960s and early 1970s.  She guest-starred in The Good Guys (1968),  three episodes of The Doris Day Show (2 episodes in 1968 and one episode in 1971), Gomer Pyle: USMC (1969), The Courtship of Eddie's Father (1969). The Virginian (1970), 3 episodes of Family Affair (2 episodes in 1969 and one in 1970), Gunsmoke (four episodes 1968-1970) and Bonanza (1971)  

Lisa's grandfather, True Eames Boardman, wrote that 1971 episode of Bonanza with Lisa in mind.  He was proud of Lisa and wanted to highlight her horse riding skills.  In the episode, entitled "Cassie" (Season 13, Episode 6 , Air Date: October 24, 1971), Lisa played Cassie O'Casey, whose father, Kevin O'Casey (Jack Cassidy), runs a horse racing scam.

Lisa in 1971 Bonanza episode

Lisa also appeared in a 1971 episode of The Odd Couple, starring Jack Klugman and Tony Randall.  She played Bunny in an episode entitled "Bunny is Missing Down by the Lake." (Season 1, Episode 18, Air Date: February 12, 1971).  In 1973, she appeared as Jenny Hutchins in two episodes of The Magical World of Disney and as Nancy Flynn in an episode of Ironside.

From 1969 to 1970, Lisa had a co-starring role on the sitcom My World and Welcome to It.  The half-hour comedy was based on the writings and cartoons of humourist James Thurber.  William Windom played John Monroe, a Thurber-like writer and cartoonist.  Joan Hotchkis played his wife, Ellen, and Lisa portrayed Lydia Monroe, his curious and intelligent daughter.  The show only lasted for one season of 26 episodes, despite positive reviews.  The show's ratings were only moderate (it was up against Gunsmoke), which prompted NBC to cancel the series.  My World and Welcome to It went on to win two primetime Emmys - Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (William Windom).

However, it was Lisa's role on the popular Mary Tyler More Show that catapulted her to TV stardom.  She played Bess, the precocious daughter of Phyllis Lindstrom, Mary's landlord.  She appeared in in ten episodes of The Mary Tyler Moor Show from 1970 to 1975.  Below is a 1974 photo of Lisa with her TV mother, Cloris Leachman. as Phyllis Lindstrom.  

Lisa in 1975

In 1975, Lisa joined Cloris Leachman in a spinoff of The Mary Tyler Moore Show called Phyllis.  The premise of the sitcom was that Mary's newly widowed landlord returns to her hometown of San Francisco with her teenage daughter after the sudden death of her husband, Lars.  Lars, a dermatologist was never seen on screen.  Phyllis and Bess move in with Lars' ditzy mother, Audrey Dexter (Jane Rose) and her second husband, Judge Jonathan Dexter (Henry Jones).  Phyllis finds employment as the assistant to the CEO of a photography studio.

Phyllis aired for two seasons, from 1975 to 1977.  48 episodes of the show were produced and Lisa appeared in 24 of those episodes.

In her late teens or early 20s, Lisa Gerritsen began to consider her transition from a successful child actor to new career as an adult.  She decided to pursue interests outside of acting.  

Around 1977, she abruptly left the Hollywood scene, soon after Phyllis was cancelled. 

In 2000, at the time of a "Mary and Rhoda" reunion TV movie, Chicago Tribune writer, Eric Zorn, set out to find Lisa and ask her why she wasn't appearing on the show.  He had been intrigued by Lisa's sudden disappearance from the acting scene and tried really hard to track her down. He spoke to a fan who thought they'd worked with Lisa at a software company, and he wrote a column about his search entitled "Desperately seeking Lisa - or maybe not so desperately."  Zorn eventually procured Lisa's phone number, but after all that, decided not to call her.  He concluded that if she were that hard to find, she probably wanted and deserved to be left alone.

Lisa married John Rustan in 2000.  They have one son, Jonathan Rustan, and they lead very private lives.  

END NOTES

* Lisa Gerritsen has appeared in two full length feature films.  She played Libby Bakersfeld in the 1970 comedy/drama Airport. She also portrayed Linda Kozlenko in the 1972 Thurber-inspired comedy/drama The War Between Men and Women, starring Jack Lemon and Barbara Harris.

*  According to the Internet Movie Database (IMDb), Lisa worked for a large California software company in the 1990s.  According to the Blloomies website, she eventually obtained her real estate licence and began working for a prestigious brokerage firm in Los Angeles.  

SOURCES:  Bloomies (www.bloomies.com), "Lisa Gerritsen: From Child Star to Real Estate Agent," July 14, 2023; YouTube Video. "Whatever happened to Lisa Gerritsen - Bess from TV's "Phyllis," Dave Sundstrom; Wikipedia; International Movie Database (IMDb)

- Joanne

Y&R Report (November 1, 2025): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV, which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet.  Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.

Hi fans,

Ray Wise has returned as Ian Ward.  I really enjoy Wise's portrayal of the dastardly criminal cult leader.  However, I've found the Mariah - Ian Ward storyline rather confusing.  The writers were deliberately vague about whether Ward actually spoke to Mariah or whether she was hallucinating.  We didn't see Ward walk away, which leads us to believe that Mariah was imagining their conversation.  The Queen of Hearts card had been torn, it was back in one piece after Ian Ward or his image was gone.  Remember that Ward somehow survived being shot and opened his eyes in the ambulance.  What happened after that?  I know Y&R is a soap, but this is all too convoluted for viewers and should be made clearer.

As for Tessa's relationship with Daniel, I think that Mariah will recover, only to discover how deeply Tessa has become involved with Daniel.  Tessa and Daniel can't pretend that they're just good friends anymore.  It's gone far beyond guitar lessons.

Fans, save the date for the Danny and Cricket wedding.  It will take place over two episodes on Friday, November 21 and Monday, November 24, 2025 on CBS, and Thursday, November 20 and Friday, November 21 on Global TV in Canada.

Cricket's longtime friend, Nina Webster (Tricia Cast), will be attending the big event, as well as Danny's sister, Gina Roma, played by Patty Weaver.  I'm certain that Nina will have an emotional  run-in with Cane Ashby over the death of her son, Chance.

CAST NEWS

Christel Khalil (Lily Winters) is expecting her third child

Christel Khalil. who plays Lily Winters on Y&R, has confirmed that she is pregnant with her third child. Her baby bump was clearly visible as she danced in s Halloween video posted on Instagram by her castmate Eric Braeden (Victor Newman).  This is Christel's third child, and her second with her husband, Canadian businessman Sam Restagno.  She has two sons: Michael Caden. (born in 2010) from a previous marriage, and Remy (born in March 2024) with Restagno.

Sam Restango

Christel and Sam, who is of Italian heritage, were wed in a ceremony in Puglia, Italy in October of 2024.

Bryton James (Devon Winters) files for divorce

Bryton James, who plays Devon Winters on Y&R is ending his short-lived marriage.  The actor has filed for divorce from his sewife, Jahaira Meyers, a professional dancer.  He is citing irreconcilable differences as the cause of breakup.  The couple wed in March of 2025.  TMZ has reported that according to court documents, they separated three months later.  

Bryton was previously married to Ashley Leisinger from 2011 to 20214.  

Blast from the past- Matt Clark returns

Roger Howarth           

As if Sharon and Nick haven't been through enough!  I appears that their worst enemy, Matt Clark, has returned.  Matt has been played by three different actors in the past,  Eddie Cibrian originated the role of Matt, 31 years ago, followed by Russell Lawrence and Rick Hearrst), but Roger Howarth is tackling the role this time around.  Howarth is a very good actor, having won a Daytime Emmy for his portrayal of Todd Manning on One Life to Live.

Only long-time Y&R viewers will remember wicked Matt Clark.  He tormented Sharon and Nick during their high school days.  Matt was jealous of Nick's wealth and Sharon's feelings for him.  He raped Sharon, beat Nick, and raped Sharon's friend, Amy Lewis.  Matt Clark was eventually shot and Nick was arrested, convicted and jailed for attempted murder.  However, Victor discovered that  Amy had actually shot  Matt, and Nick was cleared.  As fans know, Amy Lewis, is now back in Genoa City.  Matt skipped town after the shooting.

In 2000, Matt Clark returned Genoa City after having plastic surgery.  Russell Lawrence briefly assumed the the role, but was replaced by Rick Hearst.  Under an assumed name, Matt sought his revenge.  He framed Nick for selling drugs and attempted to rape Sharon again.  The police finally chases him down, but his plan backfired.  

Matt supposedly died after suffering injuries in a car wreck.  He ended up in a hospital room and tried to frame Nick, who was in the room, for his "murder" by ripping out the tubes that were keeping him alive.  Nick, of course, was fully exonerated.

Many questions remain.  First of all, how did Matt survive?  That isn't too troubling because many characters survive "death" on soaps.  Is he indeed Sienna's husband, Mitch Bacall?  It seems that that is the case.  Did Matt/Mitch try to get revenge on Nick and Sharon by harming their son, Noah?  What is Sienna hiding?  What is the dark secret in Holden and Audra's past?

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Haley Erin

Claire (Haley Erin) has been one wild and loose woman in Los Angeles!  I'm not saying she should just settle down with Kyle. It's obvious that she's not ready to settle down with anyone, and Kyle has not treated her well.  But I don't trust Holden one iota.  He has a checkered past.  Claire has fallen for his supposed charm.  He seems like an Eddie Haskell type to me.  I think she's headed for a fall.  What do you think, fans?  Is Claire going to be devastated?  Is she headed for a fall?  Reply to the poll below and let me know.

Is Claire headed for a fall?

Yes. She's playing with fire.

No. I think she's going to face some heartbreak, but I don't think her life will fall apart.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need your feedback.  If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca 

That's all for now.  Don't forget that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, November 15, 2025.  

Take care,

Joanne

Y&R Report (October 18, 2025): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV, which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet.  Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.

Hi fans,

I am looking forward to the wedding of Danny and Cricket.  It should be fun.  Phyllis has already caused big trouble at Cricket's bachelorette party, in an episode I greatly enjoyed.  I am sure that the redhead will stir up some more trouble for her longtime enemy, whom she refers to as "The Bug."  Few weddings go smoothly on Y&R.  Although Cricket has asked Daniel to prevent his mother from disrupting the festivities, I don't think Daniel will succeed in holding back Phyllis.  He's too involved with Tessa to give it enough attention.  Besides, what fun would there be for viewers if Phyllis did not cause a disruption at the nuptials.

By the way, Michael Damian, who portrays Danny Romalotti, will perform a new song on ta Y&R episode on Monday, October 20th (CBS) and Friday, October 17th (Global TV).  I have already seen the episode on Global.  The song is called "Let Me Into Your Heart," from Michael's upcoming album.  He is very excited about it.  He stated "It's a song about love and hope, and connection, and performing it on The Young and The Restless with the cast makes it even more meaningful"  Longtime Y&R viewers have fond memories of the Romalotti concerts of the past on Y&R.

Kyle always seems to make foolish choices.  He's followed Claire to L.A. and it was a complete disaster.  He brought her flowers, but she was not exactly happy to see him.  She did not welcome him with open arms.  He and Claire are toast as a couple.  Kyle has made all the wrong choices at the wrong times.  Instead of giving Claire some space, he proposed to her, then he invited her to go to Paris with him.  Jack and Diane have given him advice, but he refuses to listen.  He is really jealous of Holden and possessive of Claire.  His attitude is not going to help him repair his relationship with Claire.  Kyle has always been entitled.  He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and he expects to get everything he wants.  He just can't accept loosing Claire.

So, we've caught our first glimpse of L.A. nightclub owner Sienna Bacall, played by soap veteran Tamara Braun.  From what I've seen of Tamara, I think she will be a fascinating character.  She is brash and outspoken.  She is also provides a link to Holden's past with Audra.  Holden appears worried about what Tamara may reveal about him.  Claire is certainly curious about the connection.  Holden's dark secrets with Audra and Sienna will be uncovered.

Billy Boy Abbott is a problem.  He can't seem to get over his demons, not even for Sally Spectra's sake.  Sally was open to him about Jill's agreement to fund Abbott Communications.  She doesn't want any secrets between them.  Billy, however, appears to be more reasonable lately, but will it last?

Oh my!  It seems that Noah Newman has been in a terrible car accident.  He is all bandaged up.  Expect him to survive and recover in no time, though.  As I mentioned in a previous edition of Y&R Report, Lucas Adams has taken over the role of Noah from Rory Gibson, who is now on General Hospital.  So, Noah  won't be killed off just when a new actor has begun portraying the character.  

We know that Noah's car crash wasn't intentional.  He was run off the road, so he is definitely in some kind of danger, according to the detective who showed up at the hospital.  Matt Cohen, from General Hospital, has taken on the role of Detective Burrows.  Nick Newman is right about Noah.  Something is obviously amiss.  Sienna and Burrows definitely know more than they're letting on.  For example, why did Sienna phone Noah?  We will find out as this L.A. mystery continues.  And what about Noah's girlfriend, Allie?  What happened to her?  Have they broken up?  Allie may be out of the picture because it doesn't look as if she'll be needed for the storyline.

Romance is blooming again for Nate and Victoria.  Audra is really jealous.  She is not just going to stand idly by.  She's unpredictable sometimes.  Audra could go to L.A. to cause trouble for Claire and to find out what's going on with her ex-boyfriend Noah. 

The 52nd Daytime Emmy Awards took place last night.at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium  The show was not televised on any network.  It was streamed on watchtheemmystv and The Emmys app.  Michael Mealor (Kyle Abbott) and Michelle Stafford (Phyllis Summers) represented Y&R on stage.

General Hospital did really well at the Daytime Emmys.  It won the award for Outstanding Daytime Drama.  Four Y&R cast members - Sharon Case (Sharon Newman), Eileen Davidson (Ashley Abbott), Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea Lawson) and Michelle Stafford - were nominated for Outstanding Lead Performance in a Daytime Series (Actress).  They lost out to Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis Davis) on General Hospital.

There was one bright spot in a rather dismal night for Y&R.  Susan Walters (Diane Jenkins Abbott) won in the category of Outstanding Supporting Performance in a Daytime Drama Series.

Susan Walters (Diane)

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Now that Tamara Braun has made her debut on Y&R as L.A. nightclub owner Sienna Bacall, I'd like to know your impression of her.  Do you like her so far, fans?  Do you think she will be an asset to the show?  Respond to the pol below and let me know.

Do you like the performance of Tamara Braun as Sienna Bacall so far?

Yes, I think her acting is good and her character will be very lively.

No, I am not impressed with her.

I need to see more of her before I decide.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need your feedback.  If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca 

That's all for now.  Please remember that the next edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, November 1, 2024.

Take care,

Joanne

Y&R Report (October 4, 2025): The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV, which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet.  Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.

Hi fans,

Now that Audra has broken up with Nate, who is next for her?  I really think she is finished with Kyle.  There is too much bad blood between them.  As for Holden, he seems more focused on Claire at the moment, not Audra.  It would be interesting if Audra teams up with Cane.  Everyone in Genoa City, except Sally, wants her to leave town.  However, Audra is a survivor and he will fight tooth and nail.  She and Cane would make a fascinating combination.  They both have a chip on their shoulder.  They both are power hungry.  They both have something to prove.  

Will the writers finally reveal what Audra and Holden did in L.A?  Now that a major storyline is going to take place in L.A,, it's about time that their past is revealed.

Claire is correct that she is not ready to settle down.  She was controlled by her dastardly Aunt Jordan for most of her life.  Now she is part of the Newman family and under Victor's control.  Former boyfriend Kyle also wants to control her.  It's time she experience life on her own terms for a while.  That doesn't mean I trust Holden.  I think he's a scoundrel.  He lied when he told Kyle and Claire that he wasn't working for Cane, when Cane was known as Aristotle Dumas.  He was involved in something nefarious with Audra in L.A.  We still don't know how bad that was.  So, yes, I think he's a scoundrel, but Claire needs to discover that on her own.  

As for Kyle, he's acting like a big baby.  He's the poster boy for the entitled rich kid.  In the past, he's broken Summer's heart and Lola's heart, but he can't accept having his own heart being broken.  Claire is not intentionally trying to hurt him, though.  It's not about Kyle.  It's about what Claire needs in her life.  Kyle should just give her some space, but he won't.  He's already planning to go to L.A. to win her back.  Big mistake!

At the same time, Claire isn't so innocent.  She wasn't entirely upfront and honest with Kyle.  She should have told him that her travelling companion would be Holden.  Claire and Kyle hadn't broken up yet when Claire decided to accept Holden's invitation to show her around Los Angeles.  Yes, Kyle was not open with her about Audra or his dealings with Victor, but Claire was not honest with him either.  Claire is somewhat smitten with Holden, and that's is also part of the reason she broke up with Kyle.

Some Y&R characters are in the doldrums.  They don't have much of a storyline and they seem to be on the outside looking in.  Devon has been in the background since he married Abby.  Adam and Chelsea's storyline needs to be spiced up.

This is a time of change for The Young and the Restless.  In addition to three new characters and the return of Noah Newman, the show is undergoing another shakeup.  Veteran director Sally McDonald has been named Y&R's  new co-executive director.  I think this bodes well for the show.  Sally has a long history with Y&R and with CBS.  She will be working alongside head writer/executive producer Josh Griffith.  Her experience should be invaluable.  By the way, here's some trivia.  Sally McDonald directed the episode in which Cassie died.

Sally McDonald

CAST NEWS

Tamara Braun will begin her new Y&R Role on October 14 on CBS

Tamara Braim (Sienna Bacall)

Tamara Braun will begin her new role as Sienna Bacall on October 14th on CBS and October 13th on Global TV.  Her character is expected to manage a Hollywood nightclub, which will be part of a major storyline.  I assume it will be the nightclub Noah owns in L.A.

Jill is back in town

Jess Walton (Jill)

Jest Walton (Jill Foster Abbott) has only made sporadic appearances on Y&R over the last few years, mostly via video or computer screen.  However, Jill has finally returned to Genoa City to settle things with Billy and Cane.  It should be very interesting. It seems to me , though, that Jill has a soft spot for Cane.  What really bother Billy is that she seems to favour Cane.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Billy assures Sally that he has given up his obsession with gaining control of Chancellor Industries.  He swears up and down that he has seen the light and the error of his ways.  He has convinced Sally that he is sincere,  But will he really be able to put Sally first or will he give in to his demons?  What do you think, fans?  Should Sally trust Billy? Will he disappoint her again?  Sally gave up a food job in the fashion industry for Billy's sake.  Should she give him another chance?  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Do you think Sally is wise to give Billy another chance?

Yes. This time he's finally seen the light. He truly appreciates Sally.

No. Absolutely not. Billy always finds a way to mess up. He's not trustworthy.

Yes, but she should proceed with caution. Any sign that isn't keeping his word, she should go.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need your feedback.  If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca 

That's all for now.  Don't forget that the next issue of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

Take care,

Joanne

Heartland returns for Season 19 - Here's what fans should know

Heartland fans, rejoice!  The longstanding CBC drama will return for its 19th season on Sunday, October 5, 2025.  The new season will consist of 10 hour-long episodes.  Here is what to expect as we follow the adventures of our favourite ranch family as it faces heartbreak, joy and challenges, against the backdrop of the magnificent foothills of the Rockies.

For the most part, the main cast remains intact.  Amber Marshall (Amy Fleming), Michelle Morgan (Lou Fleming), Shaun Johnston (Jack Bartlett) will all be returning, as well as twins Ruby and Emmanuella (Lyndy Borden), Spencer Lord (Nathan Pryce), Baye McPherson (Katie Fleming-Morris), Gabriel Hogan (Peter Morris ) and Jessica Steen (Lisa Stillman).  Rounding out the returning cast will be Kerry James (Caleb Odell), Aidan Moreno (Rick Adderly), Krista Bridges as Nathan's sister Gracie and  Cindy Busby (Ashley).  As an added bonus, Alicia Newton will appear as Georgie in the final episode of the season.

Saylor McPherson, the real-life sister of Baye McPherson (Katie), was seen on the set of Heartland.  It is thought that Saylor will portray Katie's new friend, River.

The big question mark so far is Chris Potter, who plays Tim Fleming.  Chris has not been confirmed for Season 19, apparently due to health issues.

Below are some happening in Season 19.

Stop here if you prefer not to read the spoilers.

* In Episode 1, entitled "Risk Everything," a raging wildfire threatens the ranch, and the Bartlett-Fleming family is forced to evacuate.  Amy risks everything to save a pregnant mare that is trapped in the fire.

* In Episode 2, entitled "Two Can Keep a Secret," Amy must deal with the consequences when Lyndy's first 4-H show goes wrong.  Katie does something unexpected.

In Season 19, Amy is forced to defend her reputation as a horse trainer.  She must fight to protect her good name.

Amber Marshall as Amy

* Jack will be dealing with a troublesome new ranch hand.  His patience will be tested.

* Lou tries to focus on her family, but when the ranch is threatened, she must make some difficult choices.

For almost two decades, Heartland has been a Sunday night comfort zone for Canadians.  With all that's going on in the world right now, we need escape to that ranch in Alberta.  Heartland is soothing.

NOTE TO AMERICAN VIEWERS

Season 17 of Heartland began officially streaming on Netflix in the United States on September 15, 2025.

SOURCES: TV Show Pilot (tvshowpilot.com), Heartland Season 19: "Everything We Know So Far," Kristiana Juste, September 22, 2025; Wikipedia

- Joanne

Y&R Report (September 20, 2025) The Latest on The Young and the Restless

Hey Y&R fans, every second Saturday TV Banter discusses the latest happenings and provides commentary on your favourite daytime drama. Note to U.S. readers - SPOILER ALERT: Here in Canada, I watch the show on Global TV, which is one episode ahead of CBS.  I will inevitably refer to incidents you haven't seen yet.  Read at your own risk.  If you are the curious type, though, you may prefer to discover some things in advance.

Hi fans,

I hope you had a good summer.  I'm back and roaring to go.  There's a lot to discus about what has happened on Y&R.  First and foremost, I want to comment on Aristotle Dumas turning out to be Caine Ashby.  I like Billy Flynn, but he will never convince me that he is Cane or that Cane could have changed that much.  Being Australian was so much a part of Cane,  and Billy F. does not have an Aussie accent.  Also, Cane was never a con man like his father, Colin.  His personality could not have changed that much.  

There was speculation that Daniel Goddard, the original Cane Ashby, was planning to return to Y&R.  However, he joined the cast of General Hospital instead.  He now portrays Professor Henry Dalton on GH.  When Goddard became unavailable, they should have dropped the idea of Caine's return.  Billy Flynn could have played an entirely new role and he still could have fallen for Lily.

Hey Josh Griffith and fellow Y&R writers, it's time to clarify what's going on with Mariah!  This has been dragging on far too long.  Mariah admitted to Tessa that she tried to kill a man, which we viewed in flashbacks.  Her actions are somehow linked to her past in Ian Ward's cult.  Now we may finally get some answers because Daniel and Tessa are going to investigate what happened to Mariah while she is away, getting mental health treatment at a clinic in Boston.  The whole storyline is confusing and poorly written.  It's convoluted.  We still don't know what happened to the dastardly Ian Ward.  Ward opened his eyes in an ambulance, even though he was thought to be dead.  so he must be alive somewhere. Why is it taking so long to find out?  I suspect that Daniel and Tessa will encounter Ward during the course of their investigation.

Michael Baldwin just can't end his devotion to Victor, despite the callous way Victor has treated him.  I really don't think Michael would be foolish enough to risk his marriage to Lauren for Victor's sake.  Yet, he intends to hide his involvement with Victor and Cane from his wife.  However, Michael won't be able to fool Lauren for long.  She is already extremely suspicious and she will stand stand firm against any alliance with Victor.

Sadly, Michael is eager to get back into The Big Man's good graces.  It's pathetic to see such a savvy lawyer grovel at Victor's feet.  This is happening only for a storyline.  Michael's much too smart to be Victor's sycophant, but there has to be conflict.  Michael and Lauren will be celebrating their 20th anniversary.  I hope they stay together.

Right now, it seems that Cane and Victor may join forces against Jack and Jabot.  Billy Boy has gone through a crisis, but it appears that he is going to support Jack. and Kyle and Diane.  As usual, it will be the Abbotts versus the Newmans.  By the way, I think Jason Thompson has done a fine acting job portraying the troubled Billy Abbott lately.  

It should be noted that Y&R is adding a flurry of new cast members this fall. I have described them in the "Cast News." section below.

CAST NEWS

Tamara Braun to play new character on Y&R

Soap star Tamara Braun, 54, is joining the cast of The Young and the Restless  Her Y&R debut will occur this fall.  She will portray a character named Sienna Bacall, who is described as woman having "personal connections to several characters" in Genoa City."   There has been online speculation that she could be Sharon's romantic rival for the affections of Nick Newman.  There's also speculation that she is the daughter of the woman from whom Cane's late father, Colin, swindled a fortune.  She may be seeking revenge on Cane.

Born in the Chicago suburb of Evanston, Illinois, Tamara is a two-time Daytime Emmy winner for her roles on General Hospital and Days of our Lives .  She portrayed Cathy Corinthos on GH from 2001 to 2005.  She returned to GH from 2017 to 2019 in the role of Dr. Kim Nero.  She portrayed Ava Vitali on DOOL on and off between 2008 and 2025.  From 2008 to 2009, she played Reese Williams on All My Children.

In 2009, Tamara won an Emmy for Outstanding Support Actress in a Drama Series for her portrayal of Ava Vitali on Days of our Lives.  In 2020, she won in the same category for her role as Dr. Kim Nero on General Hospital. 

Matt Cohen to play detective on Y&R

Matt Cohen, known for his portrayal of Griffin Munro on General Hospital, is heading for The Young and the Restless.  Deadline has confirmed that Cohen will play a detective investigating a major case.  With the recent death of Chance, Y&R could sure use a detective.

Cohen appeared on General Hospital from 2014 to 2022.  He also portrayed a young John Winchester on Supernational.  He will make his Y&R debut on October 16th on CBS and October 15th on Global.

Roger Howarth to play mysterious new role on Y&R

After appearing on General Hospital from 2012 to to 2023, Roger Howarth, 56, will be returning to CBS for a mysterious new role on Y&R.  The details surrounding Howarth's new character have not yet been publicly revealed.  

Howarth left GH, when he was written off the ABC show.  His character, Dr. Austin Gatlin-Holt, was fatally shot.  Previous to his role on GH, Howarth played Todd Manning on One Life to Live and Paul Ryan on  As the World Turns.

Noah Newman is returning to Genoa City

Lucas Adams

Noah Newman is coming home to Genoa City later this fall.  However, Rory Gibson will not be playing Noah this time around.  Gibson is currently portraying Michael Corinthos on General Hospital.  Lucas Adams has been cast in the role of Nick and Sharon's son.  Adams, who has portrayed Dr. Tripp Dalton on Days of Our Lives, will be reunited on Y&R with Tamara Braun, who played Ava Vitali, his on-screen mother on Days.  Adams joined the cast of Days in 2017, appearing on and off on the soap until 2024.  He earned two Daytime Emmy nominations in the category of Outstanding Younger Actor in a Daytime Drama Series.

How will the return of Noah affect Y&R's storyline?  It is uncertain as to whether Noah's girlfriend, Allie Nguyen will return with him. Remember that Allie is the granddaughter of Jack Abbott.  Her return will probably depend on the storyline.  The writers could just decide to have them break up to free Noah for involvement with other women.  Since Noah has a past with Audra, it is possible that Audra could go after him again.  At one time, Noah had feelings for Tessa Porter, so maybe Daniel Romalotti will have some competition for Tessa's heart.

Here's what we do know.  Head writer Griffith spoke to TV Insider about autumn's storylines.  He revealed that Nick and Sharon are going to be involved in a major L.A. noir storyline. as they try to save their son, Noah, from a dangerous situation. We also know that Noah is opening a club in Los Angeles and that his parents are planning to visit him there.

Y&R REPORT READERS' POLL

Haley Erin (Claire)

Michael Mealor (Kyle)

It looks as if Kyle Abbott and Claire Newman are definitely finished as a couple, at least for the time being.  As a matter of fact, there is speculation that Claire will be torn between Holden and Detective Burrow, played by Matt Cohen.  I am certain that she will accept Holden's invitation to go to Los Angeles.  We will finally learn what dirty deed Audra and Holden were up to in LA.  

Are you pleased that Claire seems to be moving on?  What do you think of Kyle's behaviour?  Do you like Claire and Kyle as a couple and would you prefer them to stay together?  What do you think, fans.  Respond to the poll below and let me know.

Do you think Claire should break up with Kyle?

Yes. Kyle is not to be trusted. He'll just continue to disappoint her.

No. They make a good couple. Kyle really cares about her.

I don't know.

Other

 

pollcode.com free polls

NOTE TO READERS

I really need your feedback.  If you have any comments on Y&R, please email them to me with "Viewer Forum" in the subject line. I will be happy to publish your comments and reply to them  You do not have to use your real name.  I really need your input.  I really need to hear your opinion.  I want to know if you agree or disagree with me. 

My email address:  jmadden16@yahoo.ca 

That's all for now.  Don't forget that the nest edition of Y&R Report will appear in this space on Saturday, October 4, 2015.

Take care,

Joanne