In daytime television, few roles carry the emotional weight, history, and expectations of Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless. For years, the character was defined by the magnetic, heartbreaking performance of the late Billy Miller, whose portrayal transformed Billy into one of the show’s most beloved and complicated leading men.

So when Jason Thompson stepped into that role in 2016, he wasn’t just inheriting a character—he was inheriting a legacy. What many fans may not realize is that this pivotal career move only happened because of Billy Miller himself.

Ten years later, as Jason celebrates a decade in Genoa City, the story behind his casting feels even more powerful. It’s a story of friendship, respect, fear, and faith—a reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful doors open not through ambition, but through trust.

A Decade of Billy Abbott

On January 14, Jason Thompson officially reached a major milestone: ten years as Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless. It’s the kind of anniversary that makes both actor and audience pause. In an industry where roles can change in a heartbeat, staying in one iconic part for a decade is a rare achievement.

But before Jason ever set foot in Genoa City, he had already built a devoted fan base as Dr. Patrick Drake on General Hospital. For over ten years, he brought heart, charm, and emotional depth to Port Charles. So when news broke that he was leaving GH, fans were stunned—and worried about what the future held.

At the time, Jason himself didn’t even realize The Young and the Restless was calling him to play Billy Abbott.

The Role That Almost Didn’t Happen

When early conversations began about his potential move, Jason assumed the show wanted him for a brand-new character. It wasn’t until later that he learned the truth: the role on the table was Billy Abbott.

The reality hit him hard.

Billy Abbott wasn’t just another part. He was one of the most passionately followed characters in daytime, already immortalized by Billy Miller’s unforgettable performance. Taking over the role felt intimidating—almost impossible.

What made the situation even more surreal was that Jason and Billy Miller were working together at General Hospital at the time. Jason knew firsthand how deeply Miller’s version of Billy had connected with fans. Billy Miller didn’t just play the role—he redefined it, earning multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and becoming one of the most respected performers in the genre.

Jason later admitted that knowing what Miller had achieved made him hesitate even more. The pressure felt overwhelming.

The Conversation That Changed Everything

Unsure of his next step, Jason did the only thing that felt honest: he went straight to Billy Miller.

He told him about the offer. He admitted his fears. He confessed he wasn’t even sure where his career was headed anymore.

At that time, General Hospital executive producer Frank Valentini had asked Jason to stay a little longer so Patrick Drake could have a proper, hopeful ending with Robin. Jason agreed, knowing how much that storyline meant to fans.

Everything felt uncertain.

Then Billy Miller said something that would change Jason’s life.

In essence, he told him:
“If anyone is going to play Billy Abbott, it should be you.”

Those words carried enormous weight. They weren’t just encouragement—they were permission. Coming from the man who had made the role legendary, that endorsement meant more than any contract ever could.

Jason has said that moment gave him the confidence he needed to say yes.

A Blessing That Became a Legacy

When Jason officially debuted as Billy Abbott in 2016, fans were understandably cautious. Recasting such a beloved role is never easy. But over time, Jason made the character his own—layer by layer.

His Billy was still reckless, still wounded, still passionate—but also raw in new ways. Through heartbreaks, addictions, love triangles, custody battles, and devastating losses, Jason brought emotional depth that resonated with a new generation of viewers.

The journey paid off.

Jason earned three Daytime Emmy nominations, and in 2020, he finally took home the award for Outstanding Lead Actor. The moment was bittersweet—COVID had forced the ceremony to go virtual, and his Emmy was delivered straight to his door. Yet the symbolism felt perfect: recognition arriving quietly, but powerfully, for a decade of devotion.

A Friendship That Endured

Even after Jason joined The Young and the Restless, his friendship with Billy Miller remained strong. They supported each other from afar, sharing mutual respect for the craft and for the role that forever linked their careers.

Billy Miller’s passing left a deep void in the daytime community—but his influence lives on through Jason’s work. Every emotional beat, every broken moment, every redemption arc carries a trace of the legacy Miller helped build.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

Now, ten years later, Jason admits it feels almost unreal that so much time has passed. What began with doubt and fear turned into one of the most meaningful chapters of his career.

And knowing that his journey as Billy Abbott began with Billy Miller’s blessing makes it even more powerful.

It’s a reminder that legacies don’t end—they evolve.
And in Genoa City, the heart of Billy Abbott still beats strong.