The Young and the Restless Star Eric Braeden Receives COVID-19 Vaccine

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in The United States nearly a year ago, The Young and the Restless star Eric Braeden has been vocal about following the guidelines that can keep us safe — social distancing, hand-washing, and wearing masks.

Eric Braeden Gets A Shot In The Arm

Now the actor has reached a personal milestone during this global nightmare and received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, which began going into arms in late December.

Braeden shared his delight with receiving the vaccine and urged others to do the same when they are able. “Got my first one,” the actor tweeted, along with a photo of him still in a KN95 mask (even after we receive the vaccine, we still need to mask until the country achieves herd immunity) and holding his vaccine card. “Nothing to it!! DO IT!” he added.

When a follower mentioned he must know somebody in order to have gotten the vaccine so soon, Braeden explained that he didn’t. He just took a chance.

“You know, I had none!” he replied. “Just took a chance going down there and stood in line! Was about to turn around when I thought, ‘Hell no, stick it out!'”

California is among many states that are opening up vaccinations to anyone 65 and older, whether they have co-morbidities or not. While each county has a different supply with different guidelines (some are only giving to age 75 and over), Braeden, who is 79 years old, apparently qualified.

The legendary soap actor has also been selling masks with Victor Newman’s image on it, as well as the words, “Wear the damn mask! You got that?” These extremely comfortable masks come with adjustable ear straps to offer a perfect fit.

While Braeden has now received his first COVID-19 shot, he is not out of the woods yet as a second dose is required to achieve maximum immunity, and it takes several weeks for the body to build up antibodies after both shots. But now we know this beloved star is on his way back to the normal life the vaccine should give us all. The Young and the Restless (YR) airs weekdays on CBS. Check your local listings for airtimes.