A Long-Time Y&R Writer Announces A Major Change

The Young and the Restless writing team has been through numerous changes since the show’s creator, William J. Bell, stepped down as top scribe in 1998 after a 25 year-run in Genoa City. One constant before and since his departure has been writer Janice Ferri Esser. Now comes word that Esser is leaving the show.

Janice Ferri Esser: New Beginnings

“Today, I am retiring from the writing team at The Young & the Restless,” Esser began a post on Facebook. “I’ve been there for 35 consecutive years this spring (with a brief sojourn down the hall’ in 2007-2008 to our sister show, The Bold & the Beautiful).

“That’s 70% of the show’s run, a tenure that’s pretty unheard of in television. But I’ve decided if I’m ever going to try my hand at something different…now’s the time,” Esser continued. “Here is the letter that’s going out now to my friends and colleagues on the show. It’s an emotional day for me, but I’m excited to start this new chapter.

Here is Esser’s letter:

“Dear Friends & Colleagues, I wrote my first ‘FADE IN’ at The Young & the Restless in 1989—the year the Berlin Wall fell, Tiananmen Square erupted, and a British scientist invented the World Wide Web.

“Meanwhile, in Episode #4151… Cricket [Lauralee Bell] faced some harsh realities about her upcoming testimony against Derek [Stuart, the man who raped her]; while at The Embers, an irritated Jill [Jess Walton] tossed a glass of water in Leanna’s [Barbara Crampton] face (and much hilarity ensued),” she continued.

“Fast-forward 35 years, as our 50th anniversary season draws to a close. Having written and edited thousands of scripts from my home near the real Genoa City, I’ve decided it’s time for my personal storyline to veer off in a new direction. As of today, I’m retiring,” Esser revealed.

“Call it a recharge, or just wanting to try my hand at something different. Either way, I’m saying farewell for now, and THANK YOU ALL for sharing this amazing journey with me,” the scribe wrote. “It’s been a magical career, filled with remarkable memories and friendships I will treasure forever. I feel grateful beyond measure to have been a part of this magnificent collaboration. I remain in awe of your talent and dedication to making this show the best it can be.

“Until we meet again, know that I’ll be watching with great affection and rooting for our beloved Y&R’s continued success,” Ferri concluded. “As always, Janice.”

Soap Hub wishes Esser all the best in her next chapter and adds a resounding thank you for all the great stories she’s helped tell.