Greg Rikaart, known for his role in ‘The Young and the Restless,’ recently shared some insights on his soap opera journey in an exclusive interview. The talented actor spoke to PEOPLE about his unexpected longevity in the industry and the unique challenges and rewards of working in daytime television.
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Rikaart revealed that when he first joined ‘The Young and the Restless’ in 2003 as Kevin Fisher, he initially thought it would only be a short-term gig, lasting around 10 to 20 episodes. At the time, he was a young actor in Los Angeles navigating the competitive landscape of the entertainment industry. Despite facing setbacks in auditions for other roles, Rikaart found himself drawn to the character of Kevin, who was initially intended for a limited appearance on the show.
However, to his surprise, Rikaart’s run on the soap opera extended far beyond his expectations. He quickly became a fan favorite with his portrayal of the complex and sometimes villainous Kevin, captivating audiences with his nuanced performance. The actor recalled a fan convention early on in his Y&R tenure, where he realised the impact his character had on viewers, even when playing the antagonist.
One key turning point in Rikaart’s soap opera journey was when the show’s head writer noticed his resemblance to another cast member, Christian LeBlanc, who portrayed lawyer Michael Baldwin. This discovery led to a storyline that revealed Kevin and Michael as half-brothers, creating new layers of drama and relationship dynamics for the characters. Rikaart credits LeBlanc for his guidance and collaboration in fleshing out the sibling bond on screen.
Throughout his time on ‘The Young and the Restless,’ Rikaart earned critical acclaim, including a Daytime Emmy win in 2005 for his portrayal of Kevin Fisher. His success on the show eventually led to opportunities on other soap operas, such as ‘Days of Our Lives,’ where he continued to showcase his talent and versatility as an actor. Rikaart’s dedication to his craft and collaborative spirit have endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.
Reflecting on his soap opera experience, Rikaart emphasised the importance of teamwork and humility in the industry. He highlighted the sense of camaraderie among cast and crew members, noting that there is little room for ego on soap sets. Despite the demanding nature of the genre and the constant pressure to deliver captivating storylines, Rikaart finds fulfilment in being part of a collaborative process that brings stories to life for audiences.
In addition to his on-screen work, Rikaart co-hosts the CBS podcast ‘Soapy’ with Rebecca Budig, where they engage with fellow soap stars and delve into the intricacies of the genre. The podcast offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at the world of soap operas and provides a platform for industry professionals to share their experiences and insights.
As Rikaart continues to make his mark in the world of daytime television, his dedication to his craft and respect for the soap opera tradition shine through in his roles and interactions with fans. With a career spanning over two decades, he remains grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped his journey as an actor in the captivating and ever-evolving world of daytime dramas.