The Young and the Restless Recap | Victor Throws a Fit, Michael Quits, and Kyle Plays With Fire - Friday, May 23, 2025 [SPOILERS]
On Friday's The Young and the Restless, alliances are tested, careers get torched, and Kyle gets dangerously cozy with temptation. While Michael Baldwin finally breaks free from Victor’s grip, Victor spirals into tantrum territory. And Kyle? Let’s just say he’s dancing a little too close to the flames.
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| Michael | Y&R, CBS SONY |
Victor Loses It When Michael Baldwin Drops a Bombshell
At the ranch, Victor’s day starts off mildly annoyed and ends up fully derailed. Michael strolls in to report that Arabesque is selling off assets—aka gathering coins for a bigger, messier move. But when Victor fishes for Jabot dirt, Michael’s got zilch. Why? Because the spies got canned. Victor, ever the delusional puppet master, vows to outwit the “other bastards.”
Later, Michael tries to have a serious convo about life changes and personal growth (read: quitting). Victor's curiosity is piqued. But once Michael officially says he’s out, Victor throws a baby tantrum wrapped in billionaire arrogance. “You’re not leaving me during a critical junction!” he roars. Michael, standing firm, reminds Victor this isn’t about money, it’s about family, peace, and sanity—three things that clearly terrify Victor.
Michael Baldwin Breaks Free—Cue the Meltdown
Lauren drops the bomb to Nikki during lunch: Michael is quitting. Nikki practically chokes on her drink. When Jack stops by, the trio agrees—this is NOT going to go smoothly. Victor treats Michael like his emotional support bulldog, and without him, Genoa City better brace for a Newman-sized meltdown.
Victor doesn’t disappoint. He tries every trick in the book—guilt, bribery, manipulation—but Michael’s immune today. Even Victor calling him “family” doesn’t work. Michael delivers the final blow: “I’m choosing my wife, my son, and my peace.” That’s right, Michael Baldwin walked in with a briefcase and walked out with his dignity.
Kyle’s Emotional Spiral and Dangerous Decisions
Meanwhile, over at Jabot, Kyle is playing Jack 2.0 behind his daddy’s desk. Claire, sensing his stress, sends him a sweet card and sugar basket. Diane, travel itinerary in hand, is nervous to leave him alone. And she should be.
Kyle is not okay. He pours his guilt out to Diane, confessing he’s torn between love, loyalty, and his thirst for revenge. He’s obsessed with bringing down Victor—but not for justice. No, he wants to prove to Claire he’s worthy, not a lesser Victor clone.
Later, Audra dangles another tempting proposition. Kyle, convinced he’s in control, agrees to meet. Diane sees the danger but steps back. “Be careful,” she warns. Sis, he needs a leash, not a lecture.
Jack and Diane Brace for the Backlash
At home, Diane debriefs Jack about Kyle’s state of mind and his Audra fixation. Then comes the real kicker: Michael quit. Jack is calm, but Diane’s ready to cancel their European getaway. Jack? He’s ready to fight fire with fire. If Victor unleashes hell, Jack’s lighting the match right back.
Victor Can't Handle Rejection—Shocker
Back at the ranch, Nikki walks in just in time to watch Victor stew in silence. Michael gave him the final goodbye and peaced out like a legend. Victor, seething, bans the name “Michael Baldwin” from ever being uttered in his presence again. Mature for an octogenarian.
Michael and Lauren Toast to Freedom
In the jazz lounge, Michael is visibly worn out but finally free. Lauren hands him a drink like the queen she is. “I did it,” he says. And for once, no one’s yelling, no one’s manipulating, and no one’s threatening to destroy lives over it. Michael Baldwin is officially out of Victor’s toxic law firm-slash-soul prison—and into the arms of the only boss that matters: Lauren.
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