‘The Young and the Restless’: Michelle Stafford Says She’s Nothing Like Phyllis
The Young and the Restless star Michelle Stafford is one of the show’s leading ladies. Stafford has been playing vixen/heroine Phyllis Summers for over 27 years. While her role made her a star and earned her numerous awards, there’s one setback to the job. Like many other soap opera actors, Stafford often receives criticism from fans.
‘The Young and the Restless’ Michelle Stafford says people believe a real life Phyllis Summers
Stafford made her The Young and the Restless debut in October 1994 and quickly became a star. Her character Phyllis is Genoa City’s resident bad girl. For over two decades, fans have watched Phyllis scheme and kill people to get what she wants.
Stafford does a tremendous job playing Phyllis and getting fans to hate her character. However, her performances might work a little too well. In a 2020 interview with TV Source Magazine, Stafford talked about fans associating her with her character.
“It’s crazy how people connect you to your character. I play a character. I don’t think Michelle Stafford is anything like Phyllis Summers,” she explained.
The actor took a break from social media
Like many celebrities, Stafford is active on social media. The actor often posts photos of her home life and behind-the-scenes action on The Young and the Restless. Stafford’s media posts show a kind and fun-loving side to the actor. However, that doesn’t stop the internet trolls from hounding her.
The negativity became too much for Stafford, and in August 2021, she took a two-week break from social media. Stafford cited that her break was to see if anything positive changed in her life. Although fans missed her posts, the actor returned to her social media activity following her absence.
When it comes to dealing with negative commenters, Stafford has an upbeat approach to it. “If you’re going to drag me, and you’re funny, I’m all for it. Just be funny. If you’re going to insult me, you better at least be funny,” the actor explained to TV Source Magazine.
Michelle Stafford has her loyal fans
Although Stafford receives negative feedback, the actor is still loved by The Young and the Restless fans. While Phyllis started as a villain, she’s now become a heroine. Her relationship with Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman) turned the redhead into a beloved character.
Phyllis supporters are behind their favorite redhead as she navigates a new chapter in her life. After another breakup with Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow), Phyllis may be reuniting with Jack. Although she told Jack she just wanted to be friends, viewers know it’s only a matter of time until they get back together. No matter what’s next for Phyllis, fans will support her.
