The Young and the Restless star Jason Thompson celebrated the 10th anniversary of playing Billy Abbott. In a new interview, he took on the role after speaking with the late Billy Miller, who played the character from 2008 to 2014.
Key Takeaways
- Thompson played Billy Abbott after playing Dr. Patrick Drake for ten years on General Hospital.
- Miller gave Thompson his blessing for taking on the role of the new Billy.
- Thompson admitted he had some “big shoes” to fill.
Jason Thompson’s Personal Conversation With Billy Miller Revealed
In an interview with TV Insider, Thompson talked about his journey to Y&R. He was in talks with executive producer Jill Farren Phelps. He assumed that the role was for a new character. At the time, Thompson was working with the late Billy Miller on GH.
Miller played Jason Morgan, who was revealed to be Jason’s twin brother, Drew Cain. He also spent six years playing Billy Abbott on Y&R. Thompson mulled over the decision, which led to a conversation with his good friend.
Thompson admitted that he wasn’t sure of what to do. “But he said, ‘Look, if somebody’s going to take that character over, you can do it.’ And it meant a lot because I know how much that character meant to him and always had,” he explained.
They stayed in touch and became friends during that time. Thompson took over the role of Billy Abbott from Miller in 2016. He put his twist on the complicated, edgy bad boy who wanted to strike out on his own outside of the Abbott family.
What’s Next For Billy Abbott?
Billy wants to prove himself while navigating his relationship with Sally (Courtney Hope). She’s been keeping a close eye on him, as he continues to obsess over the Newmans. Billy is on a downward spiral, wishing he had some of that empire for himself.
Billy’s ultimate goal was to get Chancellor back. Now, Cane (Billy Flynn) is dangling that company in front of his face. Sally already snuffed him out and caught onto his conversation with his brother.
She’s worried that he could ditch everything they’ve worked so hard to build. What will Billy choose? Will he remain faithful to Sally and continue working at Abbott Communications? Or will he choose Cane’s offer to take over Chancellor?
Thompson celebrated the 10th anniversary as Billy Abbott on Wednesday, January 14. What are your thoughts on his portrayal of the character? Sound off below in the comments section.
MORE: Jason Thompson shares why his GH years still hold deep meaning.
