For decades, The Young and the Restless (Y&R) has been a beloved staple of daytime television, known for its captivating storylines and glamorous characters. One aspect that consistently draws attention is the show’s impeccable hairstyles. Viewers often wonder how the stars maintain such flawless looks episode after episode, leading to the common question: Who wears wigs on The Young and the Restless?
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at which Y&R stars wear wigs, why wigs are used in television, and how they contribute to the magic behind the scenes.
Who Wears Wigs On The Young And The Restless?
1)Mishael Morgan (Amanda Sinclair/Hilary Curtis)
One of the most talked-about actresses in the wig conversation is Mishael Morgan, who portrayed Hilary Curtis and later Amanda Sinclair. Mishael has been open about the use of wigs while on set. Fans noticed that her hair would change frequently between episodes — from sleek and straight to voluminous curls, often switching from long to short overnight.
In social media, Mishael shared,
“You act like putting on a wig makes you unrecognizable. It doesn't.”It indicates she’s addressed wig use openly in that context.“
Picture Source: Soapoperadigest
2)Brytni Sarpy (Elena Dawson)
Brytni Sarpy, who plays Elena Dawson, has also sparked discussions around wigs and natural hairstyles. She had short curly hair at first, and then she broke up with Devon and tried short crop hair, a pixie haircut, and long hair. It can be said that her hairstyle is very changeable. As an actress, Brytni Sarpy's hair cannot grow to the length she wants within a few months of filming, so she needs the help of a wig and a bundle.
Picture Source: Soapoperadigest
3)Melody Thomas Scott (Nikki Newman)
As one of the show’s long-standing legends, Melody Thomas Scott, who has portrayed Nikki Newman since the 1970s, has maintained a consistently polished look. As she gets older, Melody Thomas Scott's hair is still so fluffy and bright, which makes many people suspect that she wears a wig, but she did not respond directly to this question.
4)Victoria Rowell (Drucilla Winters)
Former Y&R star Victoria Rowell, who played Drucilla Winters, has been candid about beauty standards in the industry. During her episodes, her hairstyles often shifted dramatically — from tight curls to straight and silky strands. Such a variety of hairstyles must have been helped to some extent by wigs.
5)Michelle Stafford (Phyllis Summers):
Michelle, who plays Phyllis Summers, is known for her striking highlighted hair that always look great on camera. Whether enhanced by a wig or simply treated to a hair treatment, her hair remains the focal point of her character's bold image.
Picture Source: Soapoperadigest
6)Christian LeBlanc (Michael Baldwin)
Christian Leblanc, who plays Michael Baldwin, took time off to get treatment after being diagnosed with multiple myeloma. But after returning from medical leave, fans noticed changes in his appearance, especially a noticeably fuller hairline, leading some to believe he was wearing a wig or an elaborate hair system.
Picture Source: Soapoperadigest
7)Tracey Bregman (Lauren Fenmore):
Tracey, who plays Lauren Fenmore, has styled honey blonde wave hair and ginger jerry curly hair. After so many years, her hair has always been very shiny and thick.
Picture Source: Soapoperadigest
8)Courtney Hope(Sally Spectra)
Sally is known for her bold, bright red hair, which is always immaculately styled — whether in voluminous waves, bouncy curls, or a sharp blowout. Many fans have commented that her hair looks “too perfect” or "too big" to be completely natural in some episodes.
While Courtney Hope’s real hair is naturally red and long, it’s possible that for dramatic or time-saving reasons, she occasionally added extensions to enhance volume or change styles.
Picture Source: Soapoperadigest
Why Wigs Are Common in Soap Operas?
Before diving into the individual cast members, it’s important to understand why wigs are often used in television productions like The Young and the Restless:
- ◆Consistency: Episodes aren’t always filmed in order. Wigs allow characters to maintain the same hairstyle, length, and color from scene to scene.
- ◆Character Transformation: When a character goes through a major life change, their hair often reflects that shift. Wigs offer instant transformation without damaging the actor’s natural hair.
- ◆Hair Protection: Daily styling, heat treatments, and coloring can damage hair. Wigs provide a protective alternative.
- ◆Time Efficiency: Soap operas have demanding filming schedules. Using wigs saves time in the makeup chair.
Is Wearing A Wig A Bad Thing In Soap Operas?
Not at all. Wigs and extensions are practical tools that ensure:
Consistency in hairstyle continuity, especially when shooting out of sequence.
Protection of natural hair from constant heat-styling on tight shooting schedules.
Character transformations—a new wig can instantly signal a fresh identity, a disguise, or an emotional shift.
Is Wearing A Wig A Production Flaw?
No—it's a deliberate tool for continuity, style, and transformation.
FAQ About The Young and the Restless
Who is leaving The Young and the Restless (spoilers)?
- ◆Connor Floyd (Chance Chancellor) is confirmed to be exiting the show in 2025.
- ◆J. Eddie Peck, who portrayed Cole Howard, has also departed after his character was killed off on July 3, 2025.
- ◆Allison Lanier (Summer Newman) officially exited on May 2, 2025.
Is Heather leaving The Young and the Restless?
Yes. Vail Bloom’s character, Heather Stevens, was written off the show in late 2024 after appearing to be killed though storyline details left the door open for a return.
What happened on The Young and the Restless today?
From the episode airing July 3, 2025:
- ◆Victoria received some unexpected news.
- ◆Chelsea uncovered signs of a con job.
- ◆Mariah felt increasing pressure as secrets closed in around her.
Who is Aristotle Dumas on The Young and the Restless?
Aristotle Dumas is a mysterious new tycoon introduced around June 20, 2025, played by Billy Flynn.
Where to watch The Young and the Restless?
The show airs weekdays on CBS at 12:30 p.m.ET (check local listings; some regions shift times).Episodes are available to stream on Paramount+, YouTube TV, FuboTV, Pluto TV, and the CBS app or cbs.com (typically available ~5–6 p.m. ET daily).
Is Heather leaving The Young and the Restless for good?
Yes. Vail Bloom’s character, Heather Stevens, was definitively written off and presumed dead in late 2024, with the actress confirming her exit. While soap plots can always surprise us, as of now, Heather is gone for good.
Is Phyllis leaving The Young and the Restless?
No. Despite a recent dramatic kidnapping storyline and rumors sparked by cryptic posts from Michelle Stafford, insiders confirm that Phyllis Summers is not leaving the show and remains a series regular.
Is Sharon leaving The Young and Restless?
No. Sharon Newman, portrayed by Sharon Case, is not exiting the show. Although talk of her leaving resurfaces—especially around her involvement in Heather’s death—neither the actress nor the producers have indicated any plans for her departure.
Final Thoughts
As viewers, it’s important to appreciate the work that goes into every detail, including the hair. And for anyone inspired by the stunning styles seen on Y&R, wigs offer a fun and flexible way to try out new looks, just like the stars of your favorite daytime drama.
Whether it’s for daytime drama or everyday glam, flawless hair is always in the spotlight. Inspired by the iconic looks on The Young and the Restless, Sunber Hair offers affordable wigs and extensions to help you achieve TV-worthy style from the comfort of home.