The Young and the Restless spoilers fully documented Michael Muhney’s shocking termination and the subsequent fallout of that unexpected act. Now, a fan petition aimed at Y&R, executive producer Mal Young, new head writer Sally Sussman, CBS and Sony caught the former Adam Newman’s attention. Might digital pressure force TPTB to finally relent and rehire Michael Muhney as its backers are demanding?
His story is known across the globe; Muhney was removed from the cast of CBS’ top-reigning steamer at the height of his career in December 2013. Executive producer Jill Farren Phelps’ decision made her even more of a controversial figure among vocal segments of the soap’s fan base who went collectively mad. Their apoplectic response was generally understandable, as vague reasons were offered for the star’s termination.
Muhney’s final scenes played out in famous fashion in January 2014, as he and Billy Miller (Billy Abbott) crashed an SUV which was part of a deeply dramatic Delia (Sophie Pollono) Dies storyline. The memorable climax enabled Billy to physically transform into David Tom, as Miller voluntarily departed the show. Adam crawled out of the vehicle shortly thereafter, though his face intentionally wasn’t shown. The character crawled off, was presumed dead and didn’t reappear until the fall.
Lack of information and the incongruous act of dropping a wildly popular actor from a key role on daytime’s number 1 rated soap opera didn’t make sense. Then, lacking real answers, a vicious segment of society and other hangers on seemingly invented a dark campaign that questioned Muhney’s real life actions.
Rumors began to metastasize about Muhney having groped co-star Hunter King (Summer). Y&R didn’t refute the unsourced claim, which served to fuel a firestorm. Negatively publicity surrounded the show for an extended period, but a logical problem developed as 2014 unfolded.
No proof was provided and Muhney denied the harassment claims on various occasions. However, Y&R’s meeting with Muhney in mid-2014 to discuss his potential rehire undercut conspiracy theories. No company would consider rehiring an employee who had committed a proven crime against a co-worker.
Justin Hartley was chosen as the new Adam and made his debut in November 2014. However, Muhney’s role in the casting process served to undercut apparently baseless accusations that had been made against him by anonymous members of the public and repeated by certain websites. Now, more than two years later, Muhney’s fan base is urging his return to the role once again. Yes, the off-stage story that won’t end continues.
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I just read through all the comments in this petition. Brought tears to my eyes. So blown away by people’s passion for my work. #Humbling https://t.co/6YYXL83Vxh
— Michael Muhney (@michaelmuhney) December 14, 2016
Hey kids, here’s an actual worthwhile petition to sign. Want to see @michaelmuhney back on Y&R? Sign here: https://t.co/Jf0yPhblO2
— ElliE (@YRcritic) December 12, 2016
Just feel like all I ever want to say is “thank you.” For being positive, for encouragement, for your passion & enthusiasm for my craft.
— Michael Muhney (@michaelmuhney) December 14, 2016
It’s a rare thing to capture this much passion & support and encouragement from fans. I feel honored to have found a place in your hearts.
— Michael Muhney (@michaelmuhney) December 14, 2016
