‘The Young and The Restless’ News: Burgess Jenkins Reveals The Real Reason He Left Y&R

“The Young and the Restless” fans have been adjusting to a new face in the role of Billy Abbott over the past couple of months. Luckily, Jason Thompson has made the transition fairly easy. Most Y&R viewers are satisfied with the recast, but there have been lingering questions about why Burgess Jenkins left the role.

In an interview with “The Winston-Salem Journal,” Jenkins opened up about the reason he left the part he’d been playing since 2014. The North Carolina native decided he was ready to discuss the private issues his family has been dealing with.

“I departed the show because my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer back in November, and continuing to travel back-and-forth from the East Coast to the West Coast every week would have made it impossible for me to take care of her,” Jenkins said.

Fortunately, Jenkins noted that things are looking up. His wife, Ashlee Jenkins, now has a good prognosis. They both wanted to wait until they knew what they were dealing with before they made any kind of statement to the public.

“We know that she is going to be OK,” said Jenkins. “Just in for a long and grueling battle with chemotherapy and radiation.” Jenkins admitted that it “stinks,” but it’s a blessing to know her life isn’t in danger. “It’s great to see her back to normal,” Jenkins stated.

Jenkins may have taken a step back from the soap world, but he’s still finding time to work. He’s been helping with an acting school he started called Actors Group. Jenkins noted that he’s thrilled with the success many students find there. The school provides great preparation for anyone getting started in the film and television industry.

As for being on screen, Jenkins said he had to pass up some opportunities recently. However, Jenkins was more than willing to do it. “Family comes first,” said Jenkins. “I’ll be directing a movie in June and jumping back into a couple other projects, assuming that my wife is back on track.” Stick with Soap Opera Spy for updates on any movies or TV shows that Jenkins has coming up.

So Y&R fans, what do you think about the news that Burgess Jenkins left the show for such an admirable reason? Are you looking forward to the projects Jenkins has in the works? Voice your opinion in the comments below and don’t forget to check Soap Opera Spy often for the latest “Young and the Restless” spoilers, rumors, updates and news.

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