In his third "exclusive" this week, Eric Braeden is again speaking out about his exit from THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS with Lynette Rice from Entertainment Weekly.
You taped your last episode on Sept. 23. Was that the way you wanted Victor to go?
No. It was rushed. It was obviously meant to intimidate. It was obviously done with enormous forethought to coincide with the end of the 26-week cycle. Essentially that is what the business is doing now and has been doing for a while. And quite frankly, it’s outrageous. When I sign a three-year deal, I’m obligated to fulfill that deal. The producers, however, can come to me after a half-year and say, “We’ve changed our minds.” Where in the world of business does this kind of contract exist? Do I blame the people for wanting to squeeze as much out of us as they can? I do not. The question is, when do you squeeze too much?
Would you do another daytime drama?
I doubt that. Never say never in this business or in life, but I doubt that.
What does this say about the state of the industry when a production company is asking the star of the No. 1 show in daytime to take a pay cut? Should everyone be worried?
Yes, though it depends on what the star does. All options are open right now. What can I tell you? I know there are certain economic realities that dictate the actions they are taking right now, but the manner in which its being done is most insulting.
As of today, are you willing to take what Sony offered?
No. There is no appreciation of the fact that I’ve been an important part of the show for 29 years that has been no. 1 in the ratings. That’s extraordinary. So to be dealt with in a perfunctory matter as if you had just known these people for a few months is what is most offensive. This is a certain corporate culture now that is very deleterious.
We Love Soaps would also love an exclusive on this story! In all seriousness, Sony needs to pay the man. In any business or team, there are some people who mean more than others, that bring certain intangible qualities and charisma and skill to the table that not everyone has. Braeden has earned his spot on this show and Y&R is underestimating his value it seems. Of course, we have yet to hear much from the other side.
Braeden's self-produced film, The Man Who Came Back, received a lot of press in the past year. Will Braeden come back to Y&R? Stay tuned!
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