The Young and the Restless (YR) Spoilers: J.T. Battles Demons – Dramatic Storyline is Important

J.T. (Thad Luckinbill) is a different man than he was in the past on ‘The Young and the Restless’. Whether his heart medication is the culprit, or a larger issue, like addiction, exists there’s no question that he’s a clear threat to Victoria (Amelia Heinle), Reed (Tristan Lake Leabu), Billy’s (Jason Thompson) children and himself.

So Mackenzie’s (Kelly Kruger) petition for divorce and the recent revelation that she’d claimed J.T. was an unfit father has been clarified, apparently. As Vickie asked, why did his marriage to ‘Mack’ fall apart? That seeming answer has chillingly been revealed.

A surprising series of images unfolded as Y&R switched mid-scene to use of a hand-held camera. J.T. and Vickie descended into a fierce verbal battle when he grabbed Vickie by her neck, pushed her against the living room closet door and smashed his fist through it.

Tenured viewers recall that J.T. didn’t exhibit that type of persona years ago. Today’s Vickie has now been forced to make a decision. She’ll likely opt to defend her children and either move out with them, or kick Mr. Hellstrom out, although it’s possible she remains in the zone of instability.

It has become obvious that whatever his issue, J.T. needs psychological counseling and medical treatment. As referenced, the prescription he’s taking for his heart’s condition could be responsible for his mood swings and sporadic loss of control. It’s also possible that pain-killer abuse, which is a topical subject this soap might be addressing, is the negative force that’s actually in play.

Kudos to Luckinbill for returning to Y&R and delving into the darker side of what was once a likeable character. Confident actors embrace a challenge and he’s surely done that through this evolving, potentially Daytime Emmy Award-winning performance.

Heinle’s ability to work with her former real-life spouse has also been noteworthy. As with Luckinbill, her on-screen efforts have been exemplary.

‘J.T.V.’ looked to be a heartwarming couple revival. Instead, Y&R has crafted a storyline with deep relevance that’s fully engaging. Great soap, without question.

Soap Opera Spy is a leading source for everything linked to ‘The Young and the Restless’.

As always, more detailed spoilers and a full collection of pictures for the week in question will appear here on Soap Opera Spy on Sunday, March 18, when there could be more clues and hints over exactly what’s going on.

The Young & The Restless airs weekdays on the CBS network.

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