💔 Eric Braeden Leads Heartfelt Tribute to Tom McDermott at Emotional Y&R Farewell
“He was the soul behind the scenes.” That’s how The Young and the Restless icon Eric Braeden described Tom McDermott during an emotional memorial service held this week, following the veteran director and production figure’s passing in March 2025.
While Tom’s name might not have appeared in front of the camera, his presence could be felt in every heartbeat of the show. For decades, McDermott was a vital force on the set of Y&R — a quiet architect of its rhythm, tone, and magic. His passing has sent waves of grief through the cast, crew, and fans alike, marking the loss of a man whose impact far exceeded his screen time.
A Legacy Beyond the Spotlight
McDermott wasn’t just part of the production team — he was its compass. A master of timing, emotion, and storytelling flow, Tom’s fingerprints were on hundreds of pivotal episodes. Whether capturing tearful goodbyes, dramatic showdowns, or subtle character moments, Tom knew how to elevate every frame into something unforgettable.
He was the kind of leader who made everyone around him better — a mentor, a collaborator, a friend.
Eric Braeden’s Poignant Eulogy
At the private service attended by Y&R veterans and current stars, Eric Braeden — who has portrayed Victor Newman for over four decades — delivered a powerful and deeply personal tribute.
“Tom was more than a colleague,” Braeden said, voice heavy with emotion. “He was family. He understood what made this show tick — what made these stories matter. And he made every one of us better, just by being there.”
Braeden recalled late nights spent adjusting scenes, long conversations in the editing room, and the quiet wisdom Tom always brought to the table. “He never needed the spotlight,” Braeden continued. “But without him, the light wouldn’t have shined so bright on any of us.”
A Hidden Star, Mourned by Many
While McDermott was largely unknown to the public, the outpouring of love from the Y&R community reveals just how central he was to the show’s success.
Cast members like Melody Thomas Scott (Nikki Newman), Peter Bergman (Jack Abbott), and Sharon Case (Sharon Newman) shared memories of Tom’s calm demeanor, sharp eye for drama, and unwavering passion for storytelling.
On social media, tributes flooded in. Longtime fans expressed gratitude for Tom’s unseen hand in shaping the Y&R they grew up with. “I never knew his name until now,” one fan wrote. “But I knew his work every time I watched. Thank you, Tom.”
More Than a Farewell — A Celebration
The tribute wasn’t just a mourning of loss, but a celebration of contribution. A special montage of McDermott’s most iconic scenes — ones he either directed or helped shape — was played during the memorial. From dramatic weddings to harrowing confessions, it served as a powerful reminder of how much he gave to the Y&R legacy.
Eric Braeden ended his tribute with a promise: “We will carry your spirit in every scene we shoot. In every story we tell. You will never be forgotten, Tom.”
The Final Credits
Tom McDermott’s passing leaves an unfillable void — not just in The Young and the Restless, but in the television industry as a whole. He was a craftsman of emotion, a silent conductor of one of daytime’s longest-running symphonies.
As Genoa City moves forward, the characters will still fall in love, betray each other, and fight for redemption — but behind each scene, there will be a whisper of Tom’s legacy, guiding it all.
Rest in peace, Tom McDermott. Your story lives on in every frame. 🎬🕊️
