The Comeback Kid

Doug Davidson opens up about his time away from Y&R — and his very happy return.

- Devin Owens

On Doug Davidson, who originated the role of Paul in 1978 and is the No. 1 show’s longest-running cast member, was quietly taken off contract in January 2018 and had been appearing on a recurring basis. After fans tweeted Davidson wondering why his screen time had diminished, the actor revealed his status change in September 2018. Viewers were outraged, as was Eric Braeden (Victor), who regularly used Twitter to complain about Davidson’s absence, as well as the direction of the show. Now, Davidson is back in Genoa City as Paul and talks to Digest about the ups and downs of the past year.

Soap Opera Digest: How does it feel to be back on the set?

Doug Davidson: After 41 years, it’s so normal. Having four months away from it, to come back, it was like a time warp. Nothing had changed, and that was kind of surreal. The people are awesome. The fact that I had that break, and coupled with the tragedy [of Kristoff St. John’s, ex-Neil, passing] in between, made everything a deeper color.

Digest: What was your first day like?

Davidson: It was strange in the fact that nothing had changed. From my perspective in that period, I let everything go and decided to move on with my life and do other things, so it was a growth period for me. And then when I got into the building it was like, “Oh, wow, nothing’s changed here.” It was strange in that way.

Digest: Everyone working that day must’ve been thrilled to see you.