Vivica A. Fox set out to become a household name when she played Stephanie Simmons on The Young and the Restless. The actress has returned to the CBS soap 30 years later. It was an emotional time for her, as she didn’t have her late co-star, Kristoff St. John, by her side.
Key Takeaways
- Vivica A. Fox opened up about her return to Genoa City, which has brought up fond memories.
- Fox admitted that it was “a total surprise” to be brought back.
- She was excited to return with Shemar Moore.
How Fox’s Return to Y&R Happened
In an interview with TV Insider, Fox shared how she reprised her role of Dr. Stephanie Simmons. She spoke with Y&R’s Executive Producer Josh Griffiths in a Zoom meeting. Fox noted that she was “surprised” by Malcom’s (Shemar Moore) storyline and her involvement.
“The audience is going to be on the edge of their chairs as Stephanie and Malcolm come back, and I’m glad that Stephanie is back to finish her business with Malcolm,” Fox added.
The two had a romantic involvement in the mid-90s. At the time, Stephanie arrived in Genoa City after graduating from medical school. She was one of the town’s top docs. Though she mourned the loss of her husband, Stephanie found love again with Malcolm.
Returning Without Kristoff St. John
Normally, it’s Fox, Moore, and Kristoff St. John who are together onscreen. This time, Fox found herself without the late co-star, which made her return even more emotional and impactful.
Fox noted that the moment she saw a photo of St. John, “My whole heart just welled up, and I cried a little bit. I was like, ‘Gosh, excuse me for being so emotional, but that’s like your first love in a way, and my love for him will never die.'”
Once Fox was able to mourn St. John’s absence, she moved forward with bringing her character back to the show. Also, in the interview, Fox reflected on her career pivot. She went from starring on Y&R to landing the role of Jasmine, Will Smith’s love interest, on the 1996 blockbuster film, Independence Day.
“Oh gosh, it was the beginning of my destiny,” Fox exclaimed. “I’m so grateful for Young and the Restless because Young and the Restless led to Independence Day, which then led to having over 270 credits. It literally opened the doors.”
Shemar Moore and Vivica A. Fox’s Y&R return starts airing on Tuesday, April 7.
