The Young and the Restless is bringing back two familiar faces for a short-term story that promises major fallout. Shemar Moore and Vivica A. Fox are set to reprise their roles as Malcolm Winters and Dr. Stephanie Simmons in a multi-episode arc airing this April. While the show is keeping story details quiet, early teasers suggest their return will have “shocking and lasting implications” for the residents of Genoa City, signaling this isn’t just a nostalgic visit — it’s a storyline designed to make waves.
Key Takeaways
- Shemar Moore and Vivica A. Fox are returning to Y&R for a short-term arc.
- Moore reprises Malcolm Winters; Fox returns as Dr. Stephanie Simmons.
- Both actors resumed filming on February 17.
- Their return is expected to have “shocking and lasting implications” in Genoa City.
Malcolm and Stephanie Return to Genoa City
Moore and Fox began taping scenes on Tuesday, February 17, with episodes scheduled to air in April, according to a press release. The show has revealed few details about what brings Malcolm and Stephanie back, but the official tease points to significant consequences tied to their arrival. “In the episodes, Malcolm Winters (Moore) and Dr. Stephanie Simmons’ (Fox) surprising return has shocking and lasting implications for the residents of Genoa City,” reads the release
For longtime fans, the return marks a rare reunion between two actors who briefly crossed paths during the show’s mid-’90s era.
Malcolm and Stephanie’s Past
Malcolm and Stephanie first connected in 1994 when Olivia (Tonya Williams) introduced the medical student to Malcolm. Their romance was short-lived, but it unfolded during one of the most complicated periods in Malcolm’s history, following his involvement with Drucilla (Victoria Rowell) and the storyline that later led to Lily’s paternity reveal. Stephanie eventually exited the canvas in 1995, leaving their story unfinished — something the show may now revisit.
Two Stars With Deep Y&R Roots
Malcolm was Moore’s breakout role, earning him a Daytime Emmy Award and multiple NAACP Image Awards before he transitioned into major primetime success with Criminal Minds and S.W.A.T. Over the years, he has returned to Y&R several times, most recently in 2023.
Fox also built early momentum on daytime before landing her breakout film role in Independence Day, later becoming a recognizable presence across television and film. The two actors even reunited onscreen in the thriller Motives and its sequel, making this return a meaningful full-circle moment.
What the ‘Shocking’ Arc Could Mean
The show isn’t revealing story specifics yet, but the wording around the arc suggests more than a brief cameo. Malcolm’s history with the Winters family and Stephanie’s past ties to Genoa City leave plenty of room for drama. Whatever brings them back, their presence is expected to leave a lasting impact.
