In a surprising turn of events, Allison Lanier has announced her departure from The Young and the Restless (Y&R), where she has played Summer Newman since 2022.

Lanier revealed her final episode will air this Friday, May 2nd, stating on X, “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 took over the role from Hunter King, who portrayed Summer on and off from 2012 to 2022. Lanier’s performance earned her a Daytime Emmy nomination in 2024.

While there’s no official word on a recast, some fans are speculating about a possible return for Hunter King.

What’s Next for Summer Newman?

The show has not announced any immediate plans to recast the role. This leaves Summer’s storyline open-ended. Recent storylines have focused on Summer’s attempts to reconcile with her ex-husband, Kyle, who is now involved with Claire.

It remains to be seen how the show will address her exit, whether she’ll leave Genoa City or the character will simply disappear from the canvas for now.

Hunter King’s Recent Projects

While some fans hope for Hunter King’s return to Y&R, she has been involved in other projects. Most recently, she was cast in a CBS primetime spinoff of The Neighborhood.

The show was not picked up. King also starred in a Hallmark movie, Holiday Touchdown: A Chief’s Love Story.

The Future of Summer

For now, Summer Newman’s future on The Young and the Restless is uncertain. Fans will have to tune in to see how the show handles Allison Lanier’s departure and whether there’s any possibility of Hunter King reprising the role down the line.