November has become one of the most emotionally devastating months for fans of The Young and the Restless and the wider soap community. What began as a whisper of sorrow soon evolved into a powerful wave of grief as beloved performers—icons of television, theater, and film—left us one by one. Their departures have shaken long-time viewers, cast members, and the entertainment world, leaving a profound void that cannot easily be filled.

This month did not simply mark the passing of performers; it marked the closing of multiple eras, the fading of voices that shaped generations of storytelling, and the heartbreaking reminder that even legends eventually take their final bow. As fans gather to mourn, reminisce, and celebrate their memories, the legacy of these cherished actors shines brighter than ever.

Below is an expanded, deeply emotional tribute to the treasured individuals lost this month—figures whose influence stretches far beyond a single role or a single show. Their lives intersected with The Young and the Restless in meaningful ways, impacting audiences and colleagues through decades of dedication, talent, and artistry.

Betty Harford — A Graceful Goodbye to a Timeless Icon

Betty Harford’s peaceful passing on November 2, 2025, at the age of 98, marks the end of an extraordinary six-decade career that shaped television across multiple generations. While not exclusively known for The Young and the Restless, her presence in the soap world resonated deeply with long-time viewers who admired her seamless ability to navigate drama, warmth, and complexity.

Harford’s career began in the golden age of television, where she brought quiet strength to anthology classics like The Twilight Zone, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, and Gunsmoke. Yet to many fans, she will forever remain the beloved Hilda Gunnerson—the Carrington family cook whose appearances on the ’80s primetime soap Dynasty left an indelible mark. Her role, later reprised for the 1991 reunion special, showcased her versatility and enduring appeal.

Her passing doesn’t simply close the chapter on a storied career; it symbolizes the fading of Hollywood’s most iconic era. For many fans, Harford represented a bridge between the classical storytelling of early television and the emotionally driven narratives of today’s soaps.

Elizabeth Franz — A Loss Felt Across Stage and Screen

On November 4, 2025, the entertainment world mourned the loss of Elizabeth Franz, who passed away at age 84 after a courageous battle with cancer. Known for her remarkable emotional range and commanding stage presence, Franz was far more than a performer—she was an artist who breathed life into every role she touched.

Her Tony Award–winning portrayal of Linda Loman in the 1999 revival of Death of a Salesman remains a defining moment in modern theater. That performance alone cemented her legacy, but her career never stopped expanding. Fans of television dramas embraced her roles in Gilmore Girls, Grey’s Anatomy, and Law & Order: SVU, while film audiences admired her honesty and depth across numerous screen appearances.

Though not exclusively tied to The Young and the Restless, her artistry influenced every corner of the acting world—including those who shared the screen with her in daytime dramas. Her passing reverberates through the theater community, soap fans, and colleagues who saw her as a pillar of strength, sophistication, and humanity.

Sally Kirkland — A Trailblazer of Fierce Authenticity

November 11, 2025, marked the heartbreaking farewell to Sally Kirkland—one of Hollywood’s most fearless and emotionally raw actresses. Kirkland passed away at age 84 after entering hospice care due to complications from dementia, infections, and repeated falls.

Her career spanned more than 250 film and television credits, but it was her breathtaking performance in the 1987 film Anna that stunned the world, earning her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. She was the embodiment of artistic courage—willing to take risks, challenge expectations, and bring a ferocity to her characters that few could emulate.