“Shock Twist: Nathan Owens Joins Y&R Full-Time—Is Holden About to Destroy Lily and Damian’s World?”

Nathan Owens Signs On Full-Time as Holden Novak on The Young and the Restless: What’s Next for His Character?

It’s official—Nathan Owens is no longer just making guest appearances in Genoa City. The fan-favorite actor has officially been promoted from a recurring player to a full-time contract cast member on The Young and the Restless, and viewers can expect to see a lot more of Holden Novak in the episodes ahead.

From Mystery Man to Mainstay

Owens first appeared on the show in December 2024, initially introduced as Damian, Amy’s son and Nate’s half-brother. But in a clever twist, it was later revealed that Owens’ character was actually Holden Novak, a man who worked for the real Damian—portrayed by Germaine Rivers.

Though the switch was surprising, it didn’t stop fans from embracing Owens’ character. On the contrary, his screen presence and layered performance earned him instant popularity—and now, that growing momentum has paid off.

Last week, eagle-eyed fans noticed Nathan Owens’ name listed in the closing credits, confirming his contract status. Positioned alphabetically just before Germaine Rivers, Owens is now an official member of the core Y&R cast.

Holden’s Romantic Entanglements: Audra or Lily?

Holden’s full-time promotion comes with the promise of expanded storylines—and romantic drama is already brewing.

The character’s complicated history with Audra Charles has been a point of intrigue, and there’s clearly more to be uncovered about their cat-and-mouse dynamic. But recently, fans have also picked up on the growing chemistry between Holden and Lily Winters.

During a March interview with Michael Fairman, Owens dropped a few subtle hints about the romantic future of his character. When asked about working with Christel Khalil, who plays Lily, Owens described her as “fierce,” “funny,” and “delightful,” noting the effortless spark she brings to every scene. While he remained coy about a possible relationship between Holden and Lily, he did tease, “Who knows? We might end up together.”

Needless to say, speculation has been running wild ever since.

A Brewing Love Triangle—or Something Bigger?

As tensions also rise between Damian and Lily, it’s clear we’re heading straight into a possible love triangle—perhaps even more complex than fans anticipate. Will Holden win Lily’s heart? Or will Damian step in and shake things up?

Meanwhile, Audra Charles continues to circle Holden in unpredictable ways, and viewers suspect there’s still plenty left unsaid between the two. With his past still shrouded in mystery and his connections growing deeper, Holden Novak might become one of the most pivotal characters in Genoa City’s upcoming storylines.

The Future Looks Bright for Nathan Owens

Owens’ promotion marks a major milestone—not just for the actor, but for fans who’ve wanted to see more of him since his debut. As his character gains more depth and more screen time, all eyes are on where The Young and the Restless writers will take Holden next.

Will he find love? Will his past come back to haunt him? And how will his presence reshape the power dynamics already in motion?

One thing’s for sure: Nathan Owens is here to stay, and Genoa City just got a whole lot more interesting.