Big changes are happening behind the scenes at Beyond The Gates! Maurice Johnson, who played Ted Richardson, is making his exit from the soap, and rumors are swirling that his departure has something to do with his on-screen partner, Daphnée Duplaix. But what’s really going on? Let’s dive in.

Fans have been loving the intense drama Beyond The Gates has been serving up, but the show is now taking a classic soap opera route—recasting a major role. Maurice Johnson, who brought Ted Richardson to life, is stepping away from the series under mysterious circumstances. While the official story remains vague, speculation quickly spread that Johnson’s departure was due to tensions with Duplaix, who plays his on-screen wife, Nicole Dri. Some whispers even suggested that showrunners were unhappy with his performance. However, Johnson himself was quick to shut down those claims.

In response to the rumors, Johnson firmly stated that neither of these allegations were true. “Whoever came up with that story didn’t get it from CBS or my co-star,” he clarified. “Please don’t spread nonsense.” Despite this, fans were still heartbroken to learn that he was leaving. Many took to social media to express their disappointment, with one writing, “I dare them to put the new guy in a turtleneck—those belong to Maurice!” Another fan vented, “Why make us love Maurice only to replace him? I’m furious!”

While Johnson’s exit is causing an uproar among fans, the show has already found his replacement. Actor Keith D. Robinson will now take on the role of Ted Richardson. Robinson is no stranger to television and film, with credits including several holiday films and even portraying Bill Cosby in the 2004 Fat Albert movie alongside Kenan Thompson. His debut as Ted is set to air in May, and fans are eager to see how he takes on the character.

Despite leaving the show, Johnson still has a few more episodes left, and he seems to be enjoying every moment of it. He recently tweeted, “Sorry, Beyond The Gates fans, but you’ve got about 30 more episodes to see if Dr. Ted ever goes shirtless. I’ll be back on your screen Thursday. Thanks for all the love and for blowing up the internet over the weekend!”

The timing of Johnson’s exit has left many scratching their heads, especially since Ted is in the middle of a major storyline involving a baby daddy bombshell and Lesie’s growing obsession with him. Some fans feel it doesn’t make sense to change actors at such a pivotal moment, but in the world of soaps, sudden recasts are nothing new.

While viewers are sad to see Johnson go, many are also welcoming Robinson with open arms. His past work has proven he’s got the talent to take on the role, but will he win over die-hard fans of Maurice? Only time will tell. One thing’s for sure—Beyond The Gates won’t be slowing down on the drama anytime soon!

What do you think about this major recast? Are you excited to see Keith D. Robinson step into the role, or will Maurice Johnson always be the real Ted Richardson to you? Let us know in the comments! And be sure to stay tuned for more updates on Beyond The Gates!