Beth Maitland Breaks Silence on 43 Years as Traci Abbott – BIG NEWS Drops!
Beth Maitland, the beloved actress behind Traci Abbott on The Young and the Restless, is celebrating an incredible 43 years on the show, and she has no plans of stopping anytime soon! As Y&R marks 52 years on air, Maitland reflected on her journey, expressing gratitude for the role that has shaped her life.
“Every time I walk into the studio, I’m reminded of how much acting has carried me through life’s toughest moments,” Maitland shared. “I feel incredibly lucky to still be doing what I love at this stage in my career. Being on The Young and the Restless makes me feel whole.”
Maitland has experienced a wide range of storylines over the decades, from lighthearted adventures to deeply emotional arcs. She fondly remembers the excitement of Y&R’s summer rock concerts, where characters like Danny, Gina, and Lauren performed in scenes filled with music and special effects. However, some storylines left a lasting emotional impact.
“The most heartbreaking storyline for me was in 2009 when Traci lost her daughter, Colleen,” she recalled. “Filming those scenes was emotionally exhausting. From Colleen being brain dead to Traci making the devastating decision to take her off life support, it was incredibly painful—but also a reminder of why I love acting. Telling real, powerful stories is what makes this job so meaningful.”
Over the years, fans have deeply connected with Traci because of her relatability. Unlike the glamorous soap opera leads, Traci represents real struggles, insecurities, and personal growth. “People see themselves in Traci,” Maitland explained. “She’s not perfect, and that’s what makes her special. I take that responsibility seriously.”
Despite not always being a full-time cast member, Maitland is thrilled that Traci remains an important part of Y&R. “The fact that they keep bringing her back proves that she matters to the audience,” she said. Recently, Traci has been entangled in a gripping storyline involving her engagement to Dr. Alan Laurent, a man with a troubling past—including kidnapping two characters.
Maitland hopes that Traci’s future on the show will explore her intelligence and problem-solving skills. “I’d love to see her using her writing background to uncover secrets, not as a detective, but as someone who pieces things together,” she said.
Above all, Maitland cherishes the relationships she has built over the years. “This cast and crew are truly like family. We’ve shared weddings, births, heartbreaks, and losses. Growing up together has been an amazing experience,” she revealed.
Reflecting on her unexpected journey with Y&R, Maitland feels grateful to still be part of the show. “What started as a summer job turned into a lifelong role. It’s an honor to play someone so special, and I feel incredibly blessed to continue bringing Traci’s