Heartbreak For Y&R’s Eric Braeden: ‘Saying Good bye’
As wildfires continue to rage in California — ripping through communities, claiming lives and leveling homes and businesses — a growing number of members of the Los Angeles-based daytime community have been affected. On January 8, General Hospital star Cameron Mathison’s (Drew) home burned to the ground, and later that day, Young and Restless superstar Eric Braeden (Victor) was ordered to evacuate his property as dangerous flames drew ever nearer.
A Tragic Development
Prior to evacuating, Braeden shared a haunting video on Instagram showing leaping flames behind his home, which could be seen reflecting off the water in his backyard pool. He captioned the video, “Behind my house! The worst EVER in LA!”
His friends in the daytime community quickly chimed in with messages of support. GH’s Maurice Benard (Sonny) wrote, “That’s terrible Eric you OK.” Braeden’s on-screen daughter Melissa Ordway (Abby) said, “Oh my gosh. Eric. Thinking of you and praying. Love you ❤️.” “Be safe! 🙏🙏❤️,” offered Lauralee Bell (Christine). “Stay safe, Eric!!” echoed Susan Walters (Diane).
Braeden posted another video later, depicting the heartbreaking scene of his tranquil backyard juxtaposed with fires in the distance. “Well, we’re going to have to evacuate our house,” he informed his followers. As a helicopter in use to battle the flames came into his camera frame, Braeden said, “Okay, everyone, you see this beautiful area go up in flames. Unbelievable. All right. God bless you all. Be cool. Bye.”
Braeden and his wife, Dale Gudegast, have lived in the 3,500-square-foot home in the mountains of the Santa Monica area of Los Angeles for 40 years. In 2014, he offered a glimpse of the property to Closer Weekly, noting that he had wanted to live in the neighborhood ever since he first laid eyes on it and crediting his wife with its interior design. He shared, “I’m very fortunate. It really does feel like home.”
Soap Opera Digest‘s thoughts are with Braeden, everyone in the path of the fires, and all those who have been affected by this unfolding tragedy.
Check out Braeden’s most recent video below.
Conversation
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