2027 will mark the 40thanniversaryofJess Walton's debut as Jill Abbott onThe Young and the Restless,and the long-runningCBSsoap is already teasing plans to recognize the milestone.
The show's head writer and executive producer,Josh Griffith, discussed the series plans for 2026 and beyond in a recentinterviewwith soap journalistStephanie Sloanfor TV Insider.
During the conversation, Griffith explained that the show intends to build on the creative momentum of 2025 and escalate its storytelling as the year unfolds.
Addressing Walton's historic run, Griffith confirmed that the anniversary will not go unnoticed. "It's going to be Jess Walton's 40th anniversary [as Jill], so that's a milestone that we will definitely recognize," he said.
Walton first stepped into the role of Jill Abbott on June 19, 1987, initially on a temporary basis, filling in forBrenda Dickson. When Dickson exited the role shortly thereafter, Walton officially assumed the part full-time.
Walton's portrayal of Jill has earned her multiple accolades, including theDaytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Seriesin 1991 and theDaytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Seriesin 1997.
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Over the decades, Walton has remained an integral presence on the CBS soap. She originally exited the series in 2010 with plans to retire, but has appeared on a recurring basis since returning in 2012.
Speaking toThe TV Water Cooler'sJeevan Brar, Walton previouslyreflectedon herretirementstatus. "I don't know… I really don't know — I thought I retired when I first left, which was about 2010, but then we got new producers and they asked me to come back. Jeanne Cooperpassed away and I had to go back. They called me up and really needed me, so anyway, on and off, I've been back on and off! So, I don't know if I've retired or not," Walton said.
The Young and the Restlessairs weekdays on CBS and streams weeknights on Paramount+.
This story was originally published byParadeon Dec 31, 2025, where it first appeared in theTVsection. Add Parade as aPreferred Source by clicking here.
