‘Y&R’ Casts Former ‘GH’ Star Kelly Sullivan

The Young and the Restless has cast former General Hospital star Kelly Sullivan (ex-Kate/Connie) in a new recurring role!

Soap Opera Digest reports Sullivan has been cast in the new role of Sage. The character is described as “intelligent, competent, discreet and reserved. However, that reserve masks a well passion and fire beneath the surface. She’ll do anything or those she loves.” She begins taping September 24 and will first air October 28.

The actress tells Soap Opera Digest, “I’m incredibly honored and flattered to even be considered to be part of The Young and the Restless family. I’m also thrilled to be working with Jill Farren Phelps again like we did on GH.”

Kelly Sullivan made her soap debut in 2011, taking over the role of ice-queen fashion publisher Kate Howard. Sullivan’s storylines involved the rekindling of Kate’s romance with first-love Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard), the discovery of an alternate personality Connie, a long-lost child and eventual integration Kate’s personalities. The DID story dominated most of 2012, with Kate’s alter Connie wreaking havoc all over town. After her characters integrated in early 2013, the actress’ screen time became nearly non-existent. Last June, the actress announced her departure from the show and the character was killed off in August. The fallout from Connie’s death continues to resonate on the canvas.

Sullivan earned her first nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actress at this year’s Daytime Emmy Awards.

My Take: While I can’t say I’m thrilled that Y&R is introducing yet another new character, it’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Kelly Sullivan. I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing her a few times in the past and she’s a total sweetheart with a great set of talents. I hope Sage fills the void of a troublemaking vixen with a calculating mind. Can’t you just see her going toe-to-toe with Tracey E. Bregman, Sharon Case and Gina Tognoni? I’m salivating at the thought!