Jermaine Rivers Faces Fan Backlash as Damian’s Fate Hangs in the Balance on The Young and the Restless
Romance and scandal have always been the lifeblood of The Young and the Restless, but the latest storyline involving Damian, played by Jermaine Rivers, is proving to be more explosive than ever—both on screen and off.
Viewers have watched tensions rise as Damian’s relationship with Lily has ignited into a full-blown affair. Despite Cain Ashby’s dramatic return to reclaim Lily’s heart, she appears determined to leave the past behind. In a moment that stunned audiences, Lily kissed Damian right in front of Cain—a kiss that spoilers hint was more than just impulse. As emotions escalate, so does the danger: Cain’s shadowy past and questionable motives are fueling speculation that Damian could be in real peril.
But while the drama heats up in Genoa City, Rivers himself has found controversy in the real world. Although no official announcement has been made about his future on the show, recent offscreen tensions have left fans wondering if Damian’s exit could be imminent.
Rivers recently took to social media to express frustration over what he described as a growing wave of negativity from modern soap fans. In a blunt post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote, “I’m convinced that most, not all, of today’s soap fans are not the sweet old ladies who used to watch back in the 70s, 80s, and 90s.” He lamented how some viewers seem to tune in only to spread hate and toxic commentary.
“The internet has created a wave of people who just watch to complain,” he continued. “What happened to watching soaps because you love them?”
While many supporters applauded Rivers for defending the cast and crew, others felt his remarks were dismissive of genuine criticism. The backlash intensified when Rivers suggested that extreme emotional reactions to fictional stories might be linked to unresolved personal trauma. One particularly incensed fan fired back, accusing the actor of deflecting: “You wrote all that just to say if you don’t like it, you must be broken. Be serious.”
The debate has since taken on a life of its own, sparking fierce arguments across social media about where to draw the line between passionate fandom and harmful negativity.
As the tension continues to simmer—both in Genoa City and online—viewers are left to wonder: Is this the beginning of Damian and Lily’s great love story, or the prelude to tragedy? And could Rivers’ outspoken stance on fan culture foreshadow his departure from the show altogether?
One thing is certain: In true soap opera fashion, the drama isn’t confined to the script. It’s unfolding in real time, blurring the line between fiction and reality.
What’s your take? Are fans justified in their criticism, or has it crossed into toxic territory? Sound off in the comments and let us know. And stay tuned for more twists, turns, and behind-the-scenes updates from The Young and the Restless.
