Vivica A. Fox Unveils Stephanie’s 30-Year ‘Young and the Restless’ Absence
Vivica A. Fox is returning to The Young and the Restless on Tuesday, April 7. She will reprise the role of Stephanie Simmons after first playing the character in 1994–95.
How the comeback happened
Fox says the invitation surprised her. She had recently signed with new representation at Innovative Artists when producers called.
Shemar Moore is also returning as Malcolm Winters. Fox learned the news and embraced the idea of reuniting with her former on-screen love interest.
Story direction and meetings
Fox spoke with executive producer and head writer Josh Griffith by Zoom. Griffith outlined a plot in which Malcolm reaches out to Stephanie for help.
The reunion will reveal secrets and shift the narrative. Fox expects the audience to be engaged and surprised.
On-set reunion and production pace
Stepping back onto the set felt familiar to Fox. She recognized colleagues from three decades earlier, including Melody Thomas Scott.
Fox described the first week as intense. She compared daytime shooting to making a mini movie each week and credited her Lifetime work for helping her adjust.
Personal memories and losses
Returning stirred strong emotions for Fox. She encountered a portrait honoring the late Kristoff St. John, her former Generations costar.
They had worked together on projects including A Christmas Cruise. St. John died in 2019, and Fox said the moment brought tears.
Stephanie’s current life
The character has evolved into a successful doctor living in Manhattan. Stephanie lost her husband and remained focused on her career.
Malcolm’s return threatens that balance. Fox indicates the pair will revisit unfinished business and long-standing dynamics.
Off-screen rapport with Shemar Moore
Fox said their real-life familiarity eased on-camera work. They previously collaborated on the film Motives in 2004.
Moore’s television credits include Criminal Minds and S.W.A.T. Fox noted his success and mentioned his role as a father to his daughter Frankie.
Near-miss with other projects
Fox almost joined Beyond the Gates. She introduced creators Michele Val Jean and Sheila Ducksworth, but scheduling in Atlanta made it unworkable.
Val Jean previously wrote for Generations and helped launch memorable scenes. Fox and Val Jean have remained in contact for years.
Career context and legacy
Fox credits The Young and the Restless for helping launch her screen career. The soap led to a role in Independence Day and wider success.
She now has more than 270 credits. Fox described the return as a full-circle moment and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to make daytime magic.
The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on CBS. Check local listings for times.
