The Young and the Restless News Update: Kate Linder’s Very Special Message For Fans

As Esther on The Young and the Restless, Kate Linder got plenty of exercise keeping the Chancellor mansion in top shape! Now, Linder’s self-quarantining at home and is encouraging folks to stay healthy and stay calm.

Kate Linder: Staying Positive

While riding her stationary bike, Linder encouraged her followers to wear masks and practice social-distancing for when they have to go outside. “Please stay safe and healthy,” the actress encouraged, reminding people that it’s not about being “stuck” at home, but being “safe” at home.

Linder also mentioned how she’d soon be watching the CBS Sunday night movie — Mission: Impossible, starring Tom Cruise, acknowledging how appropriate the title is, considering how things seem impossible now but they can be overcome.

Linder joined YR back in 1982. At first, her character didn’t have a name until one day co-star Jeanne Cooper (Katherine) ad-libbed “Esther” when referring to Linder and the name stuck. Later, the YR writers added the surname “Valentine.”

Viewers have seen in recent classic YR episodes that have re-aired, Esther was seldom not seen in her maid’s outfit. Over the years, she wore it less and less, like when she became a barista at Crimson Lights. Nowadays, she’s half-owner of the Chancellor estate and is a doting grandmother to Bella, Chloe’s (Elizabeth Hendrickson) daughter.

Briefly, Esther left Katherine’s employ and went to work for Nina (Tricia Cast). She and Katherine were kidnapped by Morey (Morey Amsterdam) and Lil (Lilyan Chauvin) as part of Clint Radison’s (James Michael Gregary) scheme to use Kay’s doppelganger Marge (also played by Cooper) to steal the Chancellor fortune.

In 2008, Linder received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Cooper, YR co-creator Lee Phillip Bell, and Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa spoke at the ceremony. The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on CBS. Check local listings for air times.