The Young and the Restless Star Tyler Johnson OUT As Theo

Tyler Johnson has announced on social media a change in his status at The Young and the Restless. Let’s just say the daytime newcomer can relate to how his on-screen character, Theo Vanderway, feels.

Tyler Johnson Exits Genoa City

“I’ve always been an optimist,” Johnson announced on Twitter indicating that he was exiting YR. “Today isn’t an end, but a new beginning. Thank you to everyone [who] tuned in to watch ‘Theo Vanderway’ – it was all a blast. The future is bright. Love you all.”

The actor was clarifying an earlier tweet in which he borrowed a line used by Porky Pig at the end of Merrie Melodies (Bugs Bunny) cartoons: “That’s all folks!”

Later he wrote: “It’s been an absolute pleasure.” Immediately, the actor’s posts blew up with supporters wanting to know if the not-so cryptic posts meant he was off the show.

The news of Johnson leaving the show comes as a shock given how YR went to lengths to reveal newly created backstory that Dina Mergeron (Marla Adams) and Stuart Brooks (Bob Colbert) had an illegitimate son, who turned out to be Theo’s biological dad.

From that point on, Theo wasn’t just Kyle’s (Michael Mealor) “frenemy,” but his cousin. Regularly referred to as an “Abbott,” Theo is, in reality, not one. Dina was not married to John when Theo’s dad was conceived. Theo is a Brooks more than he’s an Abbott.

The tension between Kyle and Theo escalated after his parentage came to light. Kyle and Summer (Hunter King) set up Theo at Jabot when he “appropriated” a marketing plan that was, in reality, something Jack (Peter Bergman) had come up with years earlier. Theo left Jabot and found work at upstart ChancComm.

Recently, Theo was deeply hurt by Jack dividing up Dina’s Teardrop of Love necklace, creating jewelry pieces for family members — but not one for him. Johnson’s heartfelt performances earned him Soap Hub’s Performer of the Week for YR.

There’s no official confirmation yet from YR on Johnson’s exit or when his last air date will be. The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on CBS. Check local listings for air times.