Soap operas have always been notorious for re-casting characters seemingly out of nowhere. But since the television niche is filled with a sea of actors who wish to stay in the genre, actors from tend to leap from show to show and character to character. Later, the actor might to the show to step back into the role or as a different character altogether.
Whenever there was a change, there was always some belated explanation. In the case of Michael Muhney’s departure, it was so sudden fans were left without one. It turns out the reason for that was because it was more or less spur of the moment and allegedly due entirely to 38-year-old actor’s behavior on set.
Fans of “The Young & The Restless” may recognize the actor in the role of Adam Newman, the devious son of Victor Newman, longtime patriarch of the drama. According to TMZ, Muhney was fired from the show after 20-year-old Hunter King complained to the higher ups that he had groped her breasts on two different occasions. As it turns out, this accusation alone did not lead to the firing. Someone close to the situation called the complaint the final straw. Apparently Muhney was hell to work with, known for his bullying and harassment of other actors.
After groping, it's always best to spend time with your wife & kids. RT @TMZ Y&R Star Michael Muhney Fired http://t.co/TkVnst2uod #TVagent
— Micah Johnson (@TV_Agent) January 5, 2014
Former Y&R Chief Maria Arena Bell On Michael Muhney Dismissal: “Frankly, he should have been let go months bef… http://t.co/XUFX8oJIeB
— MIchael Fairman (@MichaelFairman) January 5, 2014
In an interview with Canada’s Huffington Post, Michael Muhney gave his opinion on the situation. “Part of me feels this is because I’ve always been outspoken, and sometimes I’ve been too outspoken. Sometimes I’ve walked around with a big backpack full of hubris. That is entirely on me.” He also added that part of the character might have bled into his real life interactions with his co-stars.
As for fans of the show, some of them are upset to the point of boycotting. Given that soap operas aren’t as popular as they once were, some might consider this a valid concern. However, re-castings are practically inevitable. Soap actors and actresses have been fired and rehired so many times, the controversy has lost all meaning. Odds are, if fans of the actor wait long enough, he’ll reappear on a show in the near future.
Image via NaVeil Lee