Y&R’s Richard Burgi was fired for breaking the COVID-19 protocol the CBS soap opera has in place.
This week began with the news after nearly a year of playing Ashland Locke, Richard had exited the role, and there was speculation regarding what was next for the character.
After all, Ashland has been scheming since the day he showed up in Genoa City. The Young and the Restless fans believed Ashland’s stint would end, courtesy of him double-crossing Victor (Eric Braeden) and Victoria (Amelia Heinle).
It turns out the plan may still be to have Ashland screw over the Newman family, but the character won’t be leaving town once his scheming is done. Well, at least not right now.
Ashland has been recast. The character will continue to keep Y&R viewers wondering what’s he’s going to do next.
So, what went down that resulted in Richard breaking the show’s COVID-19 protocol and losing his job?
Richard Burgi explains why The Young and the Restless fired him
In a new Instagram story video, Richard set the record straight on why he was no longer with the hit CBS soap opera.
“I just wanted to set the record straight. My wife had said something about it being the show’s choice, which is true. But the reality is I naively and inadvertently violated the show’s COVID policy,” Richard shared.
The talented actor explained he tested positive for COVID-19 while visiting his family on the East Coast during the holiday break. Richard revealed he followed the CDC protocol of five days isolation before returning to work, where he tested negative for COVID-19.
“But it was not within the show’s guidelines, which is a 10-day protocol. So, I inadvertently violated the show’s COVID rules and protocols. I felt terrible about it. I still do. It bothers me mightily, but it is what it is. I respect whatever the show’s decision is. They’re doing the best they can, as we all are,” he expressed.
Richard shares thoughts on Ashland recast
Along with explaining why he was let go from Y&R, Richard shared his thoughts on the Ashland recast.
“I truly wish the gentleman who’s coming in to play Ashland a wonderful time,” Richard stated. “He’s gonna be working with the most incredible actress and a great, great cast. It’s an amazing show. I have nothing but good memories and good wishes for it.”
Richard Burgi has not only given the new Ashland Locke his seal of approval but shared why he is no longer playing the character. To learn more about the Ashland recast and read Richard’s initial exit announcement, click here.
As for when the switcheroo will take place, it won’t be too long. The Young and the Restless viewers should look for the change to happen in mid-February.
What are your thoughts on the off-screen Ashland drama?
The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on CBS.
I am mad as heck he got fired. He was a very good actor and handsome. Been watching Y and R for many years but now you screwed up. I hope he sues you! PERIOD! Guess now I can turn the channel to a different show.
You do know that Richard could have called the producers of Y& R about his situation! Instead he just took for granted that he could just show up for work especially when he knew he was tested and was positive! Just saying he knew he had COVID not smart! Hope no one else gets sick!
Absolutely, he could’ve called the producers! Never good to make decisions like that without calling your boss. I’ve been hoping for a new actor in this role for a long, long time. The current (former) Ashland is too old and dull for Victoria, and he’s not believable as someone who can best Victor Newman!
AMEN. I’ve already stopped watching several other show. Guess I’ll stop watching Y&R too. After decades of watching soaps literally over 55 years I’ve never been so disgusted at the networks “ignorant protocols.” Will be down to 1 soap now and they already pissed me off so may not watch it much longer. When will these idiots wake up????
And we wonder why people are not believing anything they hear about Covid rules. None of them make sense or are the same.
I’m very upset that Richard got fired !!! That’s so stupid. He is such an excellent and handsome actor. Bring him back. Stop the foolishness !!!!
Noooo!!!!!
I’m sorry for Burgi’s situation, but I’m so glad to see this role recast. I’ve never been able to accept Victoria with this sickly, stodgy old man. Having Robert Newman in the role will be such a wonderful change! He’s just right to play Victoria’s love interest, and he’s a great actor, too. I can’t wait to see what Robert, formerly Josh Lewis on the now defunct Guiding Light, will bring to the role!
Robert Newman usually makes lists of worst daytime actors in history. It also looks like Ashland has gained 20 years and 20 pounds after Burgi. Robert Newman is believable as Victorias father – but not her spouse. He comes across on screen as sickly, pale and weak.
New Ashland is awful. What are you thinking? At
least get the dandruff off his collar. Bad bad move!