Eileen Davidson has been playing Ashley on The Young and the Restless for over four decades. The role launched her soap career and earned her a Daytime Emmy award. Although she’s been on other shows, Y&R will always be her home.
Key Takeaways
- Eileen Davidson has been playing Ashley Abbott since 1982.
- She also has roles on the soap operas Santa Barbara and Days of Our Lives.
- The actress reminisced about her Y&R career during a recent visit to the set.
Always Grateful
When Davidson debuted as Ashley in 1982, she didn’t realize how much it’d change her life. Her performances as the Abbott heroine made her a fan favorite and one of daytime’s best actresses. Forty-three years later, she’s still an integral part of the CBS soap opera.
During a recent visit to the set, she reflected on how Y&R changed her life. On Instagram, the actress posted a video of her strolling the halls of the studio. “So, I’m here at the artists’ entrance to what was CBS. And you know I always wonder if I’m still going to be on the wall and there we are,” Davidson zoomed in on a photo of her and co-stars Beth Maitland and Peter Bergman.
“I never take it for granted, I mean look how awesome is that,” she said as she showed photos off more photos of Y&R and other iconic CBS programs. “Just the history of this place. The Ed Sullivan Show, The Art Linkletter Show, Sonny & Cher. I mean look,” the actress continued her stroll down the decorative hallway. “It’s just really, quite awesome,” she gushed. “Anyway, never gets old and never take it for granted.”
Four Decades As Ashley
Davidson’s career has included her other famous roles as Kristen DiMera and Susan Banks on Days. But Y&R’s Ashley is her longest role. For four decades, she’s played the flawed Abbott heroine, who’s most memorable storyline is her relationship with Victor (Eric Braeden).
Although Ashley isn’t seen much these days, she’s still a vital part of the show and the Abbott family. Ashley often comes home to Genoa City to visit her sibling and her daughter Abby (Melissa Ordway).
Last year, Davidson was front and center as Ashley struggled with dissociative identity disorder (DID). Davidson gave an emotional and gripping performance as Ashley’s different personalities emerged. Her outstanding work has earned her a 2025 Daytime Emmy nomination, and she has a good chance to win her third award.
