Over the decades, The Young and the Restless has introduced countless memorable characters, but some have left an indelible mark on Genoa City and the hearts of viewers. These are the figures whose storylines, rivalries, and romances have helped shape the soap opera into the daytime institution it is today. Here’s a look at five of the most iconic characters and what makes them unforgettable.

1. Victor Newman – The Ruthless Powerhouse

Victor Newman, portrayed by Eric Braeden since 1980, is arguably the most influential character in the show’s history. Known for his commanding presence and iron will, Victor is the quintessential self-made tycoon. His rise from a troubled childhood as Christian Miller to becoming the head of Newman Enterprises is a core pillar of The Young and the Restless.

2. Nikki Newman – The Survivor with Style

Melody Thomas Scott’s Nikki Newman has been a fixture since 1979, evolving from a troubled young woman into one of Genoa City’s most prominent social figures. Her journey is one of transformation—she’s battled alcoholism, survived health crises, and navigated tumultuous relationships, most famously with Victor Newman.

Nikki is more than just Victor’s partner; she’s a force in her own right.

Peter Bergman’s Jack Abbott is the perfect foil to Victor Newman. As the head of the Abbott family and CEO of Jabot Cosmetics, Jack combines business savvy with charm and wit. His rivalry with Victor has fueled some of the show’s most compelling corporate and personal storylines, often blurring the line between competition and outright war.

Jack is also known for his complex romantic life, marked by multiple marriages and affairs, as well as his enduring loyalty to his family, particularly his sister Ashley and his late father, John Abbott.

Beneath his confident exterior lies a man who has faced betrayal, loss, and personal demons, making him one of the show’s most layered and relatable figures.

4. Katherine Chancellor – The Grande Dame of Genoa City

The late Jeanne Cooper’s portrayal of Katherine Chancellor made her one of daytime television’s most beloved matriarchs.

Katherine’s relationships—with her rival-turned-friend Jill Abbott, her family, and her community—formed the backbone of many storylines. She wasn’t afraid to confront her own flaws, including her struggles with alcoholism, and her journey toward redemption resonated deeply with fans.

5. Jill Abbott – The Relentless Survivor

Jess Walton’s Jill Abbott is a character defined by ambition, resilience, and a knack for reinvention. Introduced in 1973, Jill’s transformation from manicurist to corporate executive is one of the soap’s most remarkable arcs.

Her long-running feud with Katherine Chancellor is the stuff of daytime legend, evolving from bitter rivalry to reluctant respect over the decades.

Jill is a fighter—whether in business, love, or family matters. She’s had her share of romantic entanglements, corporate takeovers, and personal tragedies, but she always manages to land back on her feet. Her mix of cunning, determination, and vulnerability has kept her relevant through changing eras of The Young and the Restless.

Why These Characters Endure

Victor, Nikki, Jack, Katherine, and Jill represent more than just individual storylines—they embody the heart and soul of The Young and the Restless. Each character brings a distinct energy: Victor’s power, Nikki’s elegance, Jack’s charm, Katherine’s wisdom, and Jill’s grit.

Their longevity is a testament to both the writing and the actors’ performances, which have allowed these roles to evolve with the times while staying true to their core. In the ever-changing world of daytime television, these five stand as pillars of continuity, keeping The Young and the Restless as compelling as the day it began.