Explosive Returns + Fresh Debuts | Y&R’s May Sweep Casting Update

Soap Opera Shake-Ups: New Faces Hit Young and the Restless, Bold and the Beautiful, and General Hospital in a Star-Studded Week of Drama

In a week brimming with jaw-dropping twists, fan-favorite returns, and fresh faces, all three major daytime dramas — The Young and the Restless, The Bold and the Beautiful, and General Hospital — are delivering the kind of high-voltage storytelling that keeps soap lovers glued to their screens. From celebrity cameos and shocking debuts to beloved veterans making powerful returns, this week is set to shake up the daytime universe like never before.

Here’s your complete guide to the comings and goings lighting up your favorite soaps this week — and why you won’t want to miss a single minute.

Young and the Restless:

Jai Rodriguez Enters the Scene With a Party to Remember

Y&R kicks off this dramatic week with a bang — or more precisely, a bash. Reality TV icon and stage performer Jai Rodriguez, best known for Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, is set to make his soap debut on Wednesday, May 28th, in a fabulously flamboyant four-episode arc.

Rodriguez will portray Pro, a high-profile, in-demand party planner who’s tasked with orchestrating a luxurious celebration for Nikki Newman’s birthday. From fashion-forward couture to an over-the-top guest list and no shortage of champagne and scandal, this party promises to be an unforgettable affair in Genoa City — the kind where drama crashes the guest list faster than a spilled martini.

And while Rodriguez may be new to Y&R, he’s no stranger to the world of daytime drama. With credits on Days of Our Lives, The Bold and the Beautiful, All My Children, and One Life to Live, Rodriguez brings plenty of soap experience to his role. Expect his performance to blend stylish flair with emotional gravity as he navigates a week packed with tension and glamour.

Billy Flynn’s Secret Role Still in Play

Rumors have been swirling for months, and now they’re heating up. Days of Our Lives alum Billy Flynn, famous for his long-running portrayal of Chad DiMera, is heavily rumored to make his much-anticipated debut on Y&R this week — potentially at Nikki’s star-studded celebration.

Though CBS has yet to officially announce the character Flynn will play or the exact airdate, fans suspect his entrance is imminent. After all, Flynn wrapped up his Days duties back in April, and producers previously teased a spring arrival — a window that closes on May 31st.

Could Flynn’s character be a business rival? A mysterious new love interest? Or someone with deep ties to Genoa City’s most powerful families? With Y&R keeping details under wraps, this mystery arrival could cause a seismic shift — just in time for summer sweeps.

The Abbott Sisters Return Home With Big News and Bigger Reactions

Also returning to the canvas are Traci Abbott and Ashley Abbott, and their respective storylines promise to add emotional resonance and family-centered conflict to the week’s festivities.

After facing betrayal from her fiancé Alan — who shockingly turned out to be his sinister twin brother Martin — Traci (played by the beloved Beth Maitland) has been taking time to heal in France. But now, she’s ready to return home. Starting Wednesday, May 28th, Traci will reunite with Jack and Diane, and her reaction to Diane’s recent renovations at the Abbott mansion is expected to stir up a mix of nostalgia, resentment, and perhaps a new family rift.

Meanwhile, Ashley Abbott (played by the iconic Eileen Davidson) makes her way back from a mysterious trip to New York City. Landing in Genoa City on Thursday, May 29th, Ashley brings news — but of what variety? Is she poised to shake up Jabot’s leadership? Has she found new love in the Big Apple? Or is there a secret she’s been keeping that could change everything for the Abbott clan?

Amanda Sinclair Steps Into the Spotlight

After a quieter presence on the show in recent weeks, Amanda Sinclair (played by Mishael Morgan) will finally get her time to shine. Expect to see her in multiple episodes throughout the week, with storylines that could link her to ongoing legal intrigue, family confrontations, or a possible rekindling of past romances. Amanda’s screen time is building toward something — and fans are eager to find out what.

Bold and the Beautiful:

Tom Arnold Returns as the Sky’s Favorite Pilot

In a surprising but welcome cameo, actor and comedian Tom Arnold reprises his role as Captain Deuce Stevens, the Forresters’ trusted pilot. You’ll catch Arnold in scenes airing Monday, May 26th, sharing the screen with Muriel Helair’s character Daphne.

Arnold’s first appearance as Deuce charmed viewers in July and September of 2024, bringing comedic relief and quirky charm to the show’s jet-setter scenes. Now, as he flies in once again, fans can expect more of his signature energy and maybe even a few surprises from 30,000 feet in the air.

General Hospital:

Michael Corinthos Recast – Rory Gibson Takes Over

Perhaps the biggest casting shocker this week comes out of Port Charles. In a move that’s already set social media ablaze, Rory Gibson — formerly Noah Newman on Y&R — has officially joined General Hospital as the new Michael Corinthos.

Gibson debuted on Friday, May 23rd, stepping into the role vacated by longtime fan favorite Chad Duell, who exited the show in January 2025. While recasts always generate passionate discussion in the soap world, early reactions suggest Gibson is bringing a fresh and compelling take to Michael — one that blends intensity, ambition, and vulnerability.

With GH heating up with political scandals, Corinthos family tension, and custody wars brewing, Michael’s role is more pivotal than ever. This week, expect to see Gibson firmly step into the storyline as Michael navigates his position as Sonny’s son, Willow’s husband, and a powerful force in the Quartermaine legacy.

Three Soaps, One Explosive Week

From surprise party planners and romantic mystery men to powerful family returns and major recasts, this week on daytime TV delivers the drama fans crave. Whether you’re tuning in for Y&R’s star-studded birthday bash, B&B’s high-flying hijinks, or GH’s Corinthos family chaos, one thing is clear — soap fans are in for a wild ride.

So, tell us — who are you most excited to see return or debut this week?

Let us know in the comments!

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