The Young and the Restless fans are reeling after the bombshell announcement that truly marks the end of an era. Legendary actor Eric Braeden, who has embodied the iconic Victor Newman for more than four decades, has officially confirmed his retirement from the beloved CBS soap opera — and hearts around the world are breaking. 

In an emotional and candid interview, Braeden, 83, shared that after much reflection, he has decided it’s time to step away from the role that made him a daytime television titan. “It’s been the journey of a lifetime,” Braeden said, his voice thick with emotion. “But every journey has its ending. It’s time to say goodbye.”

The revelation comes after weeks of speculation among loyal fans, who noticed that Victor Newman’s on-screen appearances had become fewer and further between. Still, no one was truly prepared to hear the final confirmation from the man himself.

“I owe so much to this show, to the fans, and to the people who supported Victor all these years,” Braeden continued. “I never imagined when I first stepped onto the soundstage in 1980 that this character would define my career — and touch so many lives.”

Social media exploded almost instantly, with hashtags like #ThankYouEric and #VictorForever trending within hours. Fans, celebrities, and even former co-stars poured out their love and admiration for the actor who redefined what it meant to be a daytime hero — and villain.

Behind the scenes, Y&R insiders reveal that the show’s writers have been preparing a powerful sendoff for Victor, one that will honor both the character’s legacy and Braeden’s unforgettable contribution. Sources tease that Victor’s exit storyline will be “emotional, surprising, and worthy of the legend he is.”

So, what’s next for Genoa City’s most powerful mogul? Spoilers hint at a series of shocking twists:

• Will Victor step down from Newman Enterprises, or will he go out in a blaze of glory?

• Will the Newman family finally unite — or will old rivalries destroy them from within?

• And most tantalizing of all: Could a long-lost secret from Victor’s past surface just as he prepares to say his final goodbye?

Adding another layer of heartbreak, Braeden revealed that his decision wasn’t easy — especially given his recent battle with cancer, which he bravely fought and overcame last year. “Facing my mortality made me think about what I want to do with the time I have left,” he said. “And it’s time to live freely, travel, and spend precious moments with my family.”

Despite stepping away from The Young and the Restless, Braeden made it clear he’s not disappearing completely. He plans to write a second memoir (after the success of his first, I’ll Be Damned), make special appearances, and perhaps even take on a few select acting projects if the right role calls to him.

But no matter where life takes him next, for millions of fans, Eric Braeden will always be Victor Newman: the ruthless businessman, the complicated father, the enduring legend.

As Y&R prepares to honor Victor’s final chapter, one thing is certain — Genoa City will never be the same.

 Thank you, Eric Braeden, for 44 unforgettable years. The mustache, the glare, the heart — you will be missed more than words can say.