The Young and the Restless legend Eric Braeden lost a dear friend after the recent passing of Dabney Coleman. The wonderful actor said goodbye to the world on May 16, moving the acting fraternity and Eric to tears. Braeden shared on Instagram, “My old friend just passed! Upon his recommendation, did I decide to do [the soap]!” Yep, the Victor Newman actor owes Coleman for the Y&R gig that brought him all the glory! Read further to get the lowdown!

The The Young and the Restless: Eric Braeden Remembers Later Actor and Friend Dabney Coleman

If you have enjoyed Braeden’s portrayal of Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless; you must thank Coleman. In a 2020 interview, the Emmy winner recounted playing lawn tennis with Coleman. At the moment, Eric was mulling over the role of the self-made millionaire. But Dabney put him at ease, saying, “Do it. You’ll love it.” The late actor knew what he was talking about.

In the early 1970s, Dabney had a recurring role as Dr. Tracy Graham on Bright Promise. Additionally, his firsthand experience with soaps couldn’t make Braeden love the soap world at first. However, Braeden grew to appreciate the role when co-creator William J. Bell expanded his character and added layers of complexity. So, it’s astonishing to believe we wouldn’t have witnessed Eric’s version of Victor had Coleman not encouraged him.

Victor Newman turned out to be an iconic character on The Young and the Restless. Eric made his soap debut in 1980, joining initially as a short-term guest for just eight to twelve weeks. However, fate had other plans as Victor blossomed into the show’s leading man. The powerful Newman patriarch can be described as a “despicable, contemptible, unfaithful wife abuser.” He is a ruthless villain but fiercely loves those he cares about.

The CBS soap would have written him off, but Braden was too good at his job! In addition, Victor has been a mainstay on the show for over forty years now. As for Coleman, the seasoned star starred in almost everything from 9 to 5 as the boss from hell to Tootsie as the womanizing producer. And let’s not forget about his portrayal of John Dutton’s father in Yellowstone.

Furthermore, the CBS Daytime actor marveled on Instagram, “Dabney was 92!” He was “a great actor, great friend, and tennis player! Rest in peace, my friend!” Just like Eric, we keep Dabney close in our hearts while appreciating his brilliant work! Meanwhile, keep an eye on Soap Opera Daily to stay abreast for more updates on The Young and the Restless celebs!