Bryton James has reached a remarkable milestone, celebrating 21 years portraying Devon Hamilton on The Young and the Restless. Since his debut on June 1, 2004, James has become a cornerstone of the series, evolving from a teenage newcomer to a central figure in Genoa City.sportskeeda.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2tvinsider.com+2
A Journey from Audition to Icon
At just 17, James auditioned for the role of Devon while also pursuing a Coca-Cola commercial. Reflecting on that pivotal moment, he shared:
“I really wanted the [Coca-Cola] commercial,” James recalled, speaking about the day he also auditioned for the soap in 2004. “I thought, I was 17, so what did a soap opera want with a kid?” sportskeeda.com
His audition impressed casting director Marnie Saitta, who stopped the session midway to commend his interpretation, stating, “Finally, someone who reads this role the way it’s meant to be read.” sportskeeda.com+1tvinsider.com+1
Devon Hamilton: A Character with Depth
Devon’s character has tackled profound storylines, including his adoption by Neil and Drucilla Winters, coping with hearing loss due to meningitis, and navigating complex family dynamics upon discovering he is the biological son of Tucker McCall and grandson of Katherine Chancellor. en.wikipedia.org+2sportskeeda.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2
James’s portrayal earned him the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series in 2007 and a win for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2020. en.wikipedia.org+1en.wikipedia.org+1
Commitment to Representation and Authenticity
James has expressed a deep commitment to representing his character authentically, particularly in storylines addressing social issues. He once shared an encounter with a deaf fan who appreciated his portrayal of Devon’s hearing loss, emphasizing the impact of genuine representation. sportskeeda.comtvinsider.com
Looking Ahead
As James continues his journey on The Young and the Restless, he remains dedicated to honoring the show’s legacy and its fans. His 21-year tenure stands as a testament to his talent and the enduring appeal of Devon Hamilton’s character.
