After months of silence, The Young and the Restless star J. Eddie Peck has finally broken his silence about his shocking and unexpected exit from the long-running soap — and his words reveal just how blindsided he really was. The actor, who portrayed the charming and level-headed Cole Howard, spoke candidly in a recent interview about being abruptly let go from the show, admitting that he “never saw it coming.” Peck, who returned to Y&R in late 2023 after more than two decades away, was thrilled to reprise his role and reconnect with fans who had followed his storylines through the 1990s. “It felt like coming home,” he said. “The fans were amazing, the cast was welcoming, and I truly believed there was so much more story left to tell.” But just as Cole’s storyline was beginning to pick up steam — including emotional scenes reconnecting with Victoria Newman and hints of a mysterious secret from the past — the actor received a phone call that would change everything. “They just told me they were going in a different direction,” Peck revealed, still sounding stunned. “It was respectful, but it was also completely unexpected. I had no idea it was coming. Not a clue.”

Peck explained that he had already filmed several episodes ahead and was looking forward to deeper character development when he was informed that his services would no longer be needed. “One day I was reading scripts and preparing for the next week, and the next, I was told I’d shot my final scene,” he said. “You spend months building relationships on set, investing emotionally, and then suddenly it’s over. It’s hard not to feel a bit blindsided.” The actor confessed that he initially struggled to process the news, especially given how warmly his return had been received by longtime viewers. “I was getting messages every day from fans saying how happy they were to see Cole back, how much they loved the chemistry with Victoria again. It made me think there was real potential for more,” he shared. “So when it ended so suddenly, it was confusing. It didn’t feel like the story had finished.”

Despite his disappointment, Peck made it clear he holds no bitterness toward the cast or crew. In fact, he expressed nothing but admiration for the people he worked with. “Everyone at The Young and the Restless treated me with kindness and respect,” he said. “The cast — Amelia Heinle, Eric Braeden, Melody Thomas Scott — they’re all incredible professionals and wonderful human beings. It was an honor to share scenes with them again.” He also extended his gratitude to the show’s loyal audience, many of whom have voiced outrage online over his abrupt firing. “The fans are the heart of daytime,” he said earnestly. “Their passion is unmatched, and their support means everything to me. When I saw how many people were upset about my exit, it honestly touched my heart.”

The actor also hinted that while he’s closing one chapter, he’s open to whatever comes next. “I believe that when one door closes, another opens,” Peck said. “I’m proud of the work I did, and I’d absolutely be open to returning if the timing and story were right. Cole Howard will always be a part of me.” Still, he didn’t shy away from acknowledging the pain of being cut short. “There’s no easy way to get that kind of news,” he admitted. “You start asking yourself, ‘Did I do something wrong? Could I have done more?’ But in this business, sometimes it’s just about timing and creative choices. You can’t take it personally — even though, of course, it feels personal in the moment.”

Many fans have speculated that Peck’s firing may have been tied to sudden storyline changes or shifting production priorities as Y&R gears up for its next major arc. Whatever the reason, Peck’s departure has left a noticeable void. His character’s reintroduction had stirred intrigue and nostalgia, especially among longtime viewers who remembered Cole’s romantic entanglements and ties to the powerful Newman family. Now, with his abrupt exit, many are wondering what will happen to those unresolved storylines.

As for what’s next, Peck remains optimistic and grounded. “I’ve been in this industry long enough to know that you can’t predict what’s around the corner,” he said with a soft smile. “I’m taking some time to reflect, enjoy life, and see where the journey takes me. Maybe it’s another soap, maybe it’s something completely different. But I’m grateful — truly grateful — for the experience.”

In the end, J. Eddie Peck’s words remind fans that behind every on-screen drama lies a real person navigating the unpredictability of Hollywood. His honesty, humility, and grace in handling such a difficult moment have only deepened fans’ admiration for him. And while The Young and the Restless may have written Cole Howard out for now, one thing is certain — viewers will be watching and hoping for the day he walks back into Genoa City once more.