The face of “The Young and the Restless” changed three years ago when Jeanne Cooper’s (Katherine) final scene aired.
On May 3, 2013, Katherine ascended the Chancellor Mansion staircase in a scene that’s now called “The Stairway to Heaven.” News of Cooper’s passing came just days later on May 8th.
Cooper’s death left a void on Y&R that can’t be filled. Katherine was everything a soap character should be. She was the ultimate Scheme Queen, the supportive motherly figure, and a powerhouse in Genoa City’s corporate world.
Since her death, fans have noticed big changes. No more Katherine/Jill feuds, and no other actresses have picked up the love/hate relationship style. The two to come even remotely close are (Sharon Case) and Nikki (Melody Thomas Scott).
During the last few years, Mrs. Cooper’s household has gone through an evolution. Katherine’s beloved maid, Esther (Kate Linder) quit her long-standing housekeeping post and moved on with her life. Without Katherine, there wasn’t much left.
The show must go on, and so it has. Recently, the Chancellor Mansion set was given with a fresh look and a new owner. However, moving Billy Abbott (Jason Thompson) into the iconic house did create a fan war. Some people loved the idea of seeing Katherine’s house again and many others were furious with the changes.
Viewers on social media have never stopped talking about how much they love her. She was an icon, she was a queen, and she’ll always be a legend.
Y&R airs weekdays on CBS. Share your thoughts, leave a comment in the section below. Additionally, for more The Young and the Restless spoilers updates, recaps, and news, go to Soap Hub’s Facebook fanpage and join the conversation about all your favorite soaps!
Share this: