7 Things to Know About The Young and the Restless’ Brand-New Nate Brooks Darnell!

Brooks Darnell makes his debut as The Young and the Restless’ hot new doctor, Nate Hastings, on Tuesday, July 3.

While a daytime newcomer, the 6-foot actor who hails from Ohio had a recurring role (as Charlie Cooper) on Shadowhunters and made appearances on Bones and Nikita.

Here are 7 things to know about Brooks Darnell.

What’s in A Name?
Born Darnell B. Rodgers, Darnell was dubbed “Brooks” by his father. Why? It was after the late great baseball player Brooks Robinson.

When it comes to sports, Darnell has been seriously gifted. He got a football scholarship to University of Indiana and was the Table Tennis Ohio State champion in 1998. He’s also proficient in baseball, basketball, track, and gymnastics. Plus, he has a black belt in Tai Kwon Do.

What’s Up, Doc?
Art is imitating life when it comes to Darnell’s new gig on Y&R. He’s playing a doctor on the soap, and he was actually a pre-med student at University of Indiana.

Ad Man
Darnell has appeared in a memorable pair of commercials. One was Auto Zone’s “Hot Tub” ad, which you can sample here.

He also appeared in a “Where We Met” TV ad for blackpeoplemeet.com, which you can view here.

Born to Perform
Darnell has loved to perform since he was kid. His supportive mom encouraged him to hone his talents by reciting monologues and dancing. He often strutted his stuff to songs by Michael Jackson and hip-hop star MC Hammer.

Speaking Out
His mom’s monologue motivation paid off. After signing with a talent agency as a teen, Darnell competed in the IMTA talent showcase in New York. He placed third – out of 400 monologue contestants – and landed an invite to conservatory theater school San Francisco.

Mr. Model
Darnell signed with BMG Models in Chicago in 2001. And he holds the distinction of being the first African American male on their client roster.

The Young and the Restless (YR) airs weekdays on CBS. Check your local listings for air times.