The soap world is in turmoil as rumors swirl that The Young and the Restless could be preparing for one of the most emotional double exits

in its long history. Could two of Genoa City’s biggest titans — Victor Newman (Eric Braeden) and Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman) — be saying goodbye to fans after decades on screen?

 

 

It might sound unthinkable, but insiders and storyline clues suggest something big is brewing behind the scenes. From emotional shifts in recent scripts to real-life hints from both actors, here are three reasons why Victor and Jack might actually be leaving The Young and the Restless.

💥 1. Storyline Foreshadowing: A Final Showdown Between Legends

 

 

For months now, the rivalry between Victor and Jack — one of daytime television’s most iconic feuds — has taken a darker, more reflective turn. Rather than their usual business clashes, the storylines have focused heavily on legacy, mortality, and closure.

In recent episodes, Victor was seen looking through old photographs of Newman Enterprises’ early years, reflecting on “the empire I built from nothing.” Meanwhile, Jack has been expressing a rare vulnerability, telling Diane that he’s “tired of fighting battles that never end.”

 

 

“Maybe it’s time for a new generation to take the reins,” Jack said in a recent scene — a line that hit fans right in the heart.

Head writer Josh Griffith has teased that the next arc will “redefine the power structure of Genoa City,” which has led many to speculate that both patriarchs may be stepping aside — or even leaving the canvas entirely.

 

 

Social media has exploded with theories that a final, career-defining showdown between Victor and Jack is coming, one that could end in tragedy, reconciliation, or both.

Could we be heading toward the end of the Newman-Abbott war — not with a bang, but with a heartbreaking farewell?

🕰️ 2. Behind-the-Scenes Signs: Are Eric Braeden and Peter Bergman Ready to Move On?

Let’s face it — both Eric Braeden and Peter Bergman are daytime legends who have given The Young and the Restless decades of their lives. Braeden joined the show in 1980, and Bergman took over the role of Jack in 1989. That’s over 80 years of combined Y&R history between the two men.

Recently, both actors have hinted that they’re thinking about legacy more than longevity.

In a candid interview earlier this year, Eric Braeden said,

“I love this show, and I love Victor. But at some point, you have to ask yourself what’s next. You can’t play God forever — even in Genoa City.”

Meanwhile, Peter Bergman, who recently celebrated his 35th anniversary with the soap, reflected,

“It’s been an incredible ride. I don’t know what the future holds, but if Jack Abbott’s story ever ends, I hope it’s done with dignity.”

Fans have noticed that both actors have taken lighter filming schedules in recent months. Victor’s screen time has been sporadic, and Jack has spent more episodes mentoring Kyle and Billy than leading major business battles.

Add to that the recent industry rumors that CBS is planning to “refresh” the cast in 2026 to appeal to younger audiences, and it’s easy to see why long-time viewers are starting to worry.

Could the show’s next big reboot mean goodbye to its greatest icons?

💔 3. Thematic Closure: Passing the Torch to a New Generation

For over four decades, Victor and Jack have defined the very soul of The Young and the Restless. Their rivalry built Newman Enterprises and Jabot into the twin pillars of Genoa City. But with the emergence of a new generation — Adam, Nick, Victoria, Kyle, and Summer — it feels like the show is preparing for a generational handoff.