The Young and the Restless spoilers tease that Dina’s (Marla Adams) Alzheimer’s diagnosis could be leading to her death. One of the most compelling and socially important arcs in recent Y&R history means that the great actor who resumed her role earlier this year will surely be nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award in the Supporting Actress category. If there’s any justice, Adams will take the trophy next year as well.
Adams initially played John Abbott’s (Jerry Douglas) misguided wife starting in the mid-1980’s. She briefly reprised her role earlier this millennium, but didn’t become a regular cast member until 2017.
Immense kudos are offered to former co-executive producer and head writer Sally Sussman for having the vision to revisit this part of the Abbott family’s backstory. All hail to Adams, the 79-year-young actor who shines each time she’s on screen.
The specific re-add of Dina to the story fleshed out an underserved demographic within Genoa City. Soap fans, who veer middle-aged and older enjoy seeing characters of every age range, rather than those who are only in their 20’s and 30’s.
Broad-minded, experienced viewers appreciate fictional reality matching the real world, when possible. Every human being alive has something relevant to offer, a fact that deepens as one’s age is measured in decades, instead of years.
Y&R’s choice, as carried forward by executive producer Mal Young, who assumed head writing duties late this year, to directly address Alzheimer’s was and remains outstanding. Character-driven drama has been at its height as Jack (Peter Bergman) and Ashley (Eileen Davidson) grapple with their mother’s condition.
A recant of Adams’ brilliant scenes would encompass numerous digital features. Suffice it to say, she’s masterfully bridged the gap between horror and humor with skill, class and grace. Indelible performances resonate with the audience, as Adams’ certainly have.
The Abbott family only learned of Dina’s diagnosis this fall. Madame Mergeron revealed that she and Graham (Max Shippee) had known about it for approximately a year, but chose to remain mum. That plot point shortens Dina’s time on earth, if Young chooses to go in that emotionally-charged direction.
The slow loss of a loved one to the effects of this horrid disease is one that countless millions of families face in the modern world. Great soap opera has always confronted serious topics as a way to engage the audience and further awareness. Presenting the depths of this challenging issue isn’t offered entertainment, it’s an appreciated public service.
Y&R can delve more deeply into this issue if it chooses to write Dina’s death into the storyline. Assuming that happens, there can be no doubt that a woman who has already, surely earned a rightful place among the other Award candidates-to-be will be a prime contender for the prize of Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.
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