Young And The Restless News: Gina Tognoni Talks About Becoming Phyllis

The Young and the Restless (Y&R) star Gina Tognoni looked back at her tenure as Phyllis Summers in a revealing interview. She recalls the moment she decided to play the part and what her friendship with Michelle Stafford means to her. Here’s what you need to know about Gina’s interview with Soap Opera Digest.

Tognoni said that when she decided to play the role of Phyllis, she remembers feeling overwhelmed by the memory of how good Stafford (Nina Clay, General Hospital) was. She wasn’t sure if she would be as good as Michelle. Then, she decided that the fans would embrace her as Phyllis, and, in doing so, it didn’t mean they had to turn their backs on the way Stafford played the part.

Young And The Restless – Becoming Phyllis

One of the first things she knew she had to do as Phyllis was to go hard in every scene. Phyllis is a very intense character so she knew she had to go as hard as she could and sometimes, even harder than she ever imagined possible.

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To Tognoni’s surprise, her plan worked. Y&R fans adore the way she plays Phyllis. They no longer call her NuPhyllis. Instead, she is merely Phyllis. That’s not to say the Young and the Restless fans don’t appreciate the way Stafford played the role.

Tognoni loves what she does. She travels a lot because her home is in New York. However, the travel is worth it. She said she loves the art of expression and her role on Y&R is the whole reason why she got into the business.

Young And The Restless – Character Challenges Her In Every Scene

Phyllis challenges her to be a better actor in every scene. She says she is very thankful she took a chance and agreed to play the iconic role of Phyllis Summers.

Whether you love or hate Phyllis, one thing is for sure — Gina Tognoni is one heck of an actress and Y&R fans are thrilled she calls Genoa City her home. Don’t forget to come back to Soap Opera Spy for more The Young and the Restless (Y&R) spoilers, news, and casting updates!

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