Daytime television recently mourned the loss of a true legend as The Young and the Restless star Jerry Douglas passed away on November 9 at the age of 88.
For over 24 years, Jerry brought the iconic Abbott patriarch to life on the beloved soap opera, making him not only a cherished character on screen but also a real-life icon to his fans and colleagues alike.
The news of his passing sent shock waves through the soap opera community, and his co-stars from The Young and the Restless quickly took to social media to share heartfelt memories and pay tribute to the man who had touched so many lives.
One of the most touching aspects of Jerry’s legacy is the warmth and affection that his colleagues felt for him. Jess Walton, who played Jerry’s onscreen wife, was one of the first to lead the tributes. She shared a nostalgic throwback photo of the two, captured during a moment that showcased their enduring onscreen chemistry and offscreen friendship. Eileen Davidson, another beloved star from the show, expressed her grief by writing, One of a kind. I owe him so much, and I will love him forever. Her words reflect the deep impact Jerry had on those who worked alongside him.
Laura Lee Bell, who has known Jerry since she was young, sent her heartfelt condolences to Jerry’s family, particularly his wife Kim and their children Hunter and Avra. She wrote that she was fortunate enough to see Jerry as a father figure, highlighting the close bond they shared over the years. Don Diamont, who played Jerry’s TV son-in-law, shared that he couldn’t have asked for a better father-in-law on screen. His tribute emphasized the special relationship they had developed throughout their time together on the show.
Other colleagues also shared their fond memories and paid tribute to Jerry’s influence. Kate Linder expressed what a pleasure it was to work with Jerry, while former co-star Daniel Goddard remembered him as wonderfully charming and pure class, capturing the essence of Jerry’s personality both on and off the set. Brenda Epperson, who played Jerry’s daughter for eight years, shared a touching photo of them together and wrote a heartfelt caption. She described how Jerry always welcomed a hug, a cup of coffee, and took the time to visit with her, always willing to help anyone in any way he could. She fondly remembered his wit and sense of humor, painting a picture of a man who was not only a talented actor but also a generous and caring individual who made a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Jerry Douglas’s career in the entertainment industry spanned an incredible six decades, with early credits including appearances on classic TV shows like Mission Impossible and Barnaby Jones. However, it was his role on The Young and the Restless that solidified his place in television history and in the hearts of millions of viewers. Jerry leaves behind his wife of 36 years, Kim Douglas, and their son Hunter, as well as a legacy that will be remembered by fans and colleagues for years to come. His contributions to daytime television and the memories he created with his co-stars will continue to resonate long after his passing.