The Young and the Restless Star Eric Braeden Channels His Inner Michael Jackson for a Spooktacular Cast Halloween Bash
Halloween in Genoa City wasn’t just about eerie storylines this year—it was about epic dance moves. Eric Braeden, the legendary actor who has played Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless for more than four decades, surprised his fellow castmates and fans alike when he stepped into the spotlight at the show’s annual Halloween celebration dressed as none other than the King of Pop himself—Michael Jackson.
The gathering, which brought together the cast and crew of the iconic soap, turned into a night to remember filled with costumes, laughter, and spontaneous performances. But it was Braeden’s transformation that stole the show. Known for his commanding presence and powerful portrayal of Genoa City’s business titan, Eric traded in Victor’s suits and steely demeanor for a red leather jacket, fedora hat, and sparkling glove—instantly recognizable as Jackson’s signature look from his Thriller era.
As music filled the studio, the 83-year-old actor showed off moves that no one saw coming. A mix of MJ’s moonwalk, sharp spins, and dramatic poses earned thunderous applause and cheers from his Y&R co-stars. Many cast members pulled out their phones to capture the moment, posting clips and photos that quickly went viral among fans online. “Victor Newman can run a company—but who knew he could also command a dance floor?” one castmate joked.
The festive event was more than just a costume party—it was a rare chance for the cast to unwind and celebrate their shared camaraderie outside of the usual drama-filled scripts. Melody Thomas Scott, who plays Nikki Newman, joined in on the fun dressed as a glamorous witch, while other cast favorites showed up as vampires, pirates, and even classic horror icons. The studio was transformed with cobwebs, flickering candles, and fog effects reminiscent of a Halloween music video—fitting for Braeden’s Thriller-inspired look.
What truly stood out, though, was how much joy radiated through the room. After years of portraying one of television’s most intense and complex characters, Braeden’s playful performance revealed a lighter, more spontaneous side of the actor. He later shared that the inspiration for his costume came from his admiration for Michael Jackson’s artistry and influence on global entertainment. “Jackson was an extraordinary performer,” he reportedly said during the evening. “He changed the way people think about music, dance, and creativity. Tonight, it felt good to just have fun and honor that.”
The celebration also reflected The Young and the Restless’s enduring spirit as a show that continues to evolve and engage audiences. Despite being on air for over 50 years, the cast’s energy remains as vibrant as ever. Behind the scenes, the Halloween bash became a testament to the strong sense of family that has long defined the Y&R ensemble. Younger actors mingled with veterans, laughter echoed through the studio, and stories from decades of production filled the night.
Fans who caught glimpses of the event online couldn’t get enough of Braeden’s transformation. Many commented that seeing the soap legend in such a fun and unexpected role reminded them why they’ve followed him for so long. Others joked that Victor Newman might just use those dance skills to charm his next business rival or outsmart an adversary.
By the end of the night, the floor was filled with a mix of zombies, heroes, and divas—each joining Braeden in an impromptu group dance to Jackson’s “Thriller.” It was a moment that blurred the lines between fiction and fun, proving that even the most dramatic daytime stars know how to let loose when the cameras aren’t rolling.
As the party wound down, Braeden thanked everyone for the laughter and the memories. His message was heartfelt—an appreciation for the decades of friendship, teamwork, and shared success that The Young and the Restless represents. For fans and cast alike, it was a reminder that behind every powerful scene and emotional storyline lies a community that truly enjoys the journey together.
This Halloween celebration will likely go down as one of the most talked-about Y&R cast events in recent years. Eric Braeden’s unforgettable tribute to Michael Jackson not only highlighted his playful side but also reinforced why he remains one of daytime television’s most beloved figures. Whether he’s closing a corporate deal in Genoa City or moonwalking across the dance floor, there’s no denying that Braeden still knows how to captivate an audience—on screen and off.
