It looks like Ashland Locke is out of Young and the Restless. Soap veteran Robert Newman, who took over the role earlier this year, confirmed that the Locke-Ness monster has, in fact, met his demise.
Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow) came into Victoria Newman's (Amelia Heinle) defense and confronted Ashland. The two came to blows, which resulted in Ashland's death.
The actor revealed that the intense episode with Morrow and Heinle was actually the last time we'll see him on Young and the Restless.
Robert Newman Confirms Ashland Locke's Exit on Young and the Restless
Robert Newman took to social media and broke his silence about Ashland Locke's fate. The actor took it upon himself to clarify what really happened to the head villain of Young and the Restless.
Newman shared a short video confirming Ashland's death following an altercation with Nick. He added that it's the last time fans will see him on the show.
"Just to clarify, the scenes you saw the other day, Ashland dying at the hands of Nick, were, in fact, my last scenes on the show," Newman explained.
Pic credit: CBS
Robert Newman also revealed that the scenes were taken about five weeks ago. He noted that his contract with Young and the Restless has already ended. Currently, the soap actor is spending quality time with his family in Michigan.
Newman is the latest cast member to exit the show this year. In March, Jordi Vilasuso, who portrayed Rey Rosales, announced that he'd be leaving Y&R. Prior to that, former Ashland Locke portrayer, Richard Burgi, confirmed he got the ax over a simple violation of the show's COVID-19 protocols.
No Hard Feelings
Despite his exit, Robert Newman has nothing but good words to say about his Young and the Restless co-stars. The actor said everyone on the show was "fantastic" and "wonderful people to work with."
Newman also expressed his gratitude for being able to play the character. He noted that while some find it a "tough transition from Richard's (Burgi) work," he genuinely enjoyed portraying the role.
"I very much enjoyed playing the character," the Young and the Restless star added. "I hope you enjoyed seeing me in the role."
Pic credit: CBS
What's Next for Robert Newman?
Robert Newman's run on Y&R may have come to an end, but that doesn't mean he'll be out of the limelight. The actor revealed he's currently busy and preparing for his next project.
Newman will be playing the role of Dennis Dupree in the Rock of Ages musical. He's rehearsing at the Barn Theater in Augusta, Michigan.
Interestingly, it seems Young and the Restless fans might just see Robert Newman again in the future. The actor sparked speculations of a possible return. Nothing is impossible in soaps, so the idea is not far-fetched at all.
"It was really a lovely time," he added. "And maybe I'll see you again one day… you never know!"