Los Angeles – After an impactful three-year stint, Allison Lanier has announced that her time as Summer Newman on The Young and the Restless (Y&R) will come to an end this week. The 34-year-old actress shared the bittersweet news with her fans via an emotional post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Lanier’s announcement quickly went viral, garnering thousands of reactions and heartfelt messages from fans and fellow castmates alike.
In her post, Lanier wrote:
“Hi guys!! This Friday, May 2nd, 2025, will be my last episode on Y&R! I’ve loved the journey and learned so much but it’s time to grow in a different direction… very grateful for all of the Y&R fans who have supported me <3”.
Lanier’s departure marks the end of her journey playing Summer Newman, one of Genoa City’s most beloved characters. Since joining the show in 2022, Lanier—who replaced Hunter King—immediately made the role her own, earning praise for her nuanced performances across some of the show’s most compelling storylines. From navigating family dynamics within the powerful Newman family to complex love triangles, Summer’s journey has been at the heart of many of the show’s most talked-about moments.
Summer Newman, the daughter of Phyllis Summers (Michelle Stafford) and Nick Newman (Joshua Morrow), first debuted on Y&R in 2006. Over nearly two decades, multiple actresses have portrayed Summer, with Lanier becoming the fifth to take on the iconic role. As of now, Y&R producers have not revealed whether they plan to recast Summer or write the character out entirely, leading to speculation among fans and insiders about the future of the character and her family. As Lanier’s final episode airs this Friday on CBS at 12:30 p.m. ET, fans are eager to see how the show will address Summer’s departure.
In her farewell message, Lanier expressed deep gratitude for her time on Y&R, calling it “an incredible journey” and thanking the cast and crew for their unwavering support. Her colleagues were quick to share their own tributes on social media, with some saying:
“Your energy and authenticity brought Summer to life in ways we’ll never forget. Can’t wait to see what’s next for you”!
“You’ve left big shoes to fill—Summer’s story won’t be the same without you”.
The news of her exit has sparked an outpouring of emotions from loyal viewers. Many fans took to social media to share their sadness and admiration for Lanier’s portrayal of Summer. One fan wrote, “I hate to see you go! I hope to see you in something big soon—thank you for making Summer Newman into a character I truly care about”. Another fan expressed, “It’s so unfortunate—Summer felt so real because of you. The next actress will have her work cut out”!
Lanier’s exit comes shortly after receiving her first Daytime Emmy nomination in 2024 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. Her role as Summer in a storyline dealing with betrayal, ambition, and redemption earned widespread recognition, and her nomination was seen as a major milestone in her career. Reflecting on the honor, Lanier posted on Instagram, “Overwhelmingly thankful and humbled (also stunned!) to have been nominated this year for a @daytimeemmys”!
Before her time on Y&R, Lanier’s career included roles in the Amazon comedy-drama Red Oaks, as well as indie films like It Happened in L.A., Fish Bones, and Mia. Known for her versatility across genres, Lanier’s diverse experience helped her infuse Summer with both depth and authenticity during her time on the soap. As she embarks on the next chapter of her career, it’s speculated that Lanier could venture further into film or primetime television.
Her departure marks yet another transition for The Young and the Restless, which has seen multiple exits in recent months. In January 2025, Colleen Zenk ended her run as Aunt Jordan, and in June 2024, Trevor St. John wrapped up his more than 200 episodes as Tucker McCall. With the show approaching its 54th anniversary, Lanier’s departure adds to the sense that change is afoot in the Genoa City universe.
As the fans prepare to say goodbye to Summer Newman this Friday, many are left wondering how the writers will handle her exit. Will Summer leave town for new opportunities, or will her departure be steeped in dramatic turmoil? Whatever the storyline, Lanier’s portrayal of Summer will be remembered as a defining chapter in the show’s legacy. Her ability to bring emotional depth to the character has solidified her place in daytime television history.
