“The show must go on” — Jermaine Rivers talks about Damian’s demise and his time on The Young and the Restless

Jermaine Rivers has officially wrapped his time on The Young and the Restless, following the dramatic on-screen death of his character, Damian Kane, in the July 14, 2025, episode. The character met a sudden end when he and Cane were both drugged, and a mystery assailant fatally stabbed Damian. Rivers, who joined the CBS soap after an extensive casting search, reflected on his journey in a heartfelt farewell video posted to the social media platform X today.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to portray a complex character navigating multiple relationships. From his entrance marked by arrogance to his emotional exit, Damian Kane’s arc was brief but layered. Rivers acknowledged the collaborative nature of daytime storytelling and shared appreciation for the cast, crew, and fans.

He said,

“Thank you for the fans who tuned in, who’s always committed and invested in the storyline that’s being played out day after day. So yeah, I’m gonna close this one out, with light, love, and gratitude in my heart. I’ll see y’all on the next one. The show must go on. Peace and love.”

Jermaine Rivers speaks on his The Young and the Restless journey

In a farewell video shared after Damian Kane’s exit from The Young and the Restless, actor Jermaine Rivers reflected on his journey with the show and the significance of the role in his career. The July 14, 2025, episode marked the end of Damian’s arc when, after being drugged alongside Cane, a mystery assailant fatally stabbed him. It closed a short but impactful chapter for both the character and the actor who brought him to life.

Rivers began by thanking executive producer and head writer Josh Griffith for the opportunity to portray Damian. He called the experience “an amazing ride” and expressed how meaningful it was to bring to life a character with so many emotional layers. Over the course of his run, Rivers explored Damian’s complex relationships with his mother Amy Lewis, half-brother Nate Hastings, best friend Cane, and potential love interest Lily Winters.

He appreciated the chance to delve into a wide emotional range and bring truth to every scene. Rivers acknowledged that Damian’s initial appearance in Genoa City stirred mixed reactions among fans due to the character’s mystery and arrogance. Those elements were, he clarified, entirely intentional and rooted in the script.

 “As an actor, my job is to be of service to the script, to my fellow actors, and to the overall story,” he explained. “It’s not about one person — it’s about the collective.” He also spoke about the casting process, giving credit to casting director Greg Salmon for noticing something in him.

Rivers explained that the hunt for the ideal Damian started in July last year, and he got the role after a sudden audition in November. Though his stay on the show was short, Rivers stated he is proud of the contribution he made to the role and thankful for being given the chance.

With a new sci-fi series in the works, he is looking ahead but still grateful for the time on The Young and the Restless. He concluded his note with loving thanks to the cast, crew, and fans.

Catch The Young and the Restless on CBS.