Richard Burgi Reveals Why He Was Let Go From THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS

When Richard Burgi announced on social media that he was “moving on” from THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS where he’s played Ashland for almost a year, fans were stunned. But a few days later, the actor once again took to his Instagram stories to explain the reason why he’d been let go from the soap.

“I just wanted to set the record straight,” Burgi said in a video. “My wife had said something about it being the show’s choice, which is true. But the reality is I naively and inadvertently violated the show’s COVID policy.”

During the holiday break, Burgi traveled to the East Coast to visit family where he tested positive for the coronavirus around Christmas. “I was at my niece’s house visiting my 97-year-old mom,” he revealed. “I took the necessary five days the CDC recommended, came back, and then went and tested negatively at the studio and showed up for work.

“But it was not within the show’s guidelines, which is a 10-day protocol,” Burgi continued. “So I inadvertently violated the show’s COVID rules and protocols. I felt terrible about it… I still do. It bothers me mightily, but it is what it is. I respect whatever the show’s decision is. They’re doing the best they can, as we all are.”

The actor also wished his replacement, GUIDING LIGHT star Robert Newman (Josh), all the best as he steps into the role. “I truly wish the gentleman who’s coming in to play Ashland a wonderful time,” Burgi declared. “He’s gonna be working with the most incredible actress and a great, great cast. It’s an amazing show. I have nothing but good memories and good wishes for it.”

Unfortunately, just as Burgi began to share his wish for his fans, the video cut out, but we’re sure he was about to wish his fans all the best as well. Burgi’s extensive career in film and television has included numerous soaps, most notably DAYS OF OUR LIVES, GENERAL HOSPITAL, and Y&R, and we’re sure we’ll see this talented actor again in daytime, primetime, or film again very soon!