HOT SHOCKING UPDATE!! Your Favorite Soap Actors
Who Are Also Grand-parents | Y & R Edition
“The Young and the Restless” has captivated audiences for over five decades,
becoming a beloved part of our daily lives. During its impressive 51-year run, we’ve witnessed countless actors evolve before our eyes—from dating and marriage to starting families and, for some, even becoming grandparents. Today, we’re delving into the real-life stories of some of your favorite Y&R stars who have embraced the joys of grandparenthood both on and off the screen. Let’s dive right in!
First up, we have the dynamic duo, Susan Walters and Lyndon Ashby. Walters has been gracing us with her portrayal of Diane since 2001, while Ashby, who made his debut in 2003, left a lasting impression with his portrayal of the menacing Cameron Kristen. Their love story began long before Y&R, dating back to 1985 when they met on the set of “Loving.” The pair tied the knot in 1986, just six months after meeting, and have been inseparable ever since, recently celebrating their 34th wedding anniversary. Their bond is so strong that they’ve shared screen time in several series, including “Teen Wolf” and “Melrose Place.” The couple welcomed their daughters, Frances Grace and Savannah Elizabeth, in the early ’90s, and in 2022, they were overjoyed to become grandparents for the first time. Their granddaughter, Nora, now two years old, has stolen their hearts, with Lyndon affectionately calling her “Peaw.” Walters often shares sweet moments with Nora, reflecting on the joys of watching her daughter become a mother.
Next, we turn to the iconic Melody Thomas Scott, a staple of Y&R since 1979, known for her role as Nikki Newman. Over the years, Scott has become an indispensable part of the show, delivering memorable performances that have solidified her place in daytime television history. Off-screen, she’s equally iconic, having been married to producer Edward J. Scott since 1985. The couple has a blended family with three daughters, and in 2011, they welcomed their first grandchildren—twins James and Charlotte, born to their oldest daughter, Jennifer. On the show, Nikki has an expansive family with nine grandchildren, but in real life, Scott takes immense pride in her twin grandkids, cherishing every moment of being a grandmother.
Kate Linder, who has portrayed Esther Valentine since 1982, is another Y&R veteran who has embraced grandparenthood in real life. Linder, who has been a steadfast presence on the show for over 40 years, was married to Dr. Ronald L. Linder for 41 years until his passing in 2017. Although the couple didn’t have children together, Linder became a stepmother to Ronald’s three children from his first marriage. Today, she is a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren from her stepchildren. On-screen, Esther is known for her close-knit relationships, and while she only has one grandchild, Bella Fisher, in real life, Linder’s large extended family keeps her life filled with joy.
Another beloved Y&R grandparent is Eric Braeden, who has portrayed the indomitable Victor Newman since 1980. Braeden’s character, Victor, has a sprawling family tree on the show, with four children and thirteen grandchildren. In real life, Braeden is a doting grandfather to three granddaughters. He often shares photos of his eldest granddaughter, Tatiana, while keeping his younger granddaughters, Oxana and Angelica, out of the spotlight. Despite his legendary status in the soap opera world, Braeden’s greatest joy comes from his role as a grandfather, describing it as one of life’s most rewarding experiences.
Lastly, we remember the late Jeanne Cooper, who passed away 11 years ago. Cooper, who portrayed Katherine Chancellor for over 40 years, was a daytime television legend. She left behind a lasting legacy, not just on Y&R but also through her family. Cooper had three children with her ex-husband, television producer Harry Bernsen Jr., and she is survived by four grandchildren, all of whom have followed in her footsteps into the entertainment industry. Her grandchildren, Finley, Oliver, Henry, and Angus, continue to honor their grandmother’s memory through their work in film and television.
So there you have it—a glimpse into the lives of some of your favorite “The Young and the Restless” stars who are also proud grandparents. These actors have brought so much to the screen over the years, and now they’re embracing a new role in their personal lives, one filled with love, laughter, and family. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more Y&R updates!