Michelle Stafford, who has long portrayed Phyllis Summers on The Young and the Restless, recently shared her favorite moments and storylines from the soap in a candid Instagram Q&A. Fans asked about both her personal favorites and her perspective on the character’s ongoing drama, and Stafford didn’t hold back.

The Nick-Phyllis Affair

When asked about her favorite storyline, Stafford immediately highlighted the Nick and Phyllis affair. She explained that it stood out because of how unlikely the pairing seemed. “These two characters, who had been on the show for the equal amount of time—like 10 years each—suddenly came together,” she said. “I loved it because it was very, very odd that these two characters would come together, but it was compelling.”

The storyline is remembered by fans for its intense drama, emotional complexity, and the way it shook up relationships across Genoa City. Stafford admitted that working on it was a highlight of her career.

Other Memorable Storylines

Beyond the Nick-Phyllis affair, Stafford mentioned enjoying her scenes with Diane Jenkins (Susan Walters) and Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman). “There are various scenes that I loved with Phyllis and Jack…anything I did with Phyllis/Diane,” she said. Each of these storylines allowed her to explore Phyllis’ layered personality—from business rivalries to intense personal conflicts—and gave her a chance to showcase her acting range.

Current Storylines

Stafford also reflected on her current storyline, which she described as Phyllis “fighting for her life” every day. “It takes a lot of energy to play, but I like it,” she said. Her dedication to the character remains evident, as she embraces the intensity and stakes of her ongoing arcs.

Thoughts on ‘Bad’ Storylines

When asked if she has ever disliked a storyline, Stafford was philosophical. “There’s not a bad storyline. I mean, it’s all sort of opinion. I could like a storyline, and you could hate it,” she explained. She emphasized that her main job is to focus on acting: “My job is actually not to have an opinion on the storyline…they write dialogue and I say it. That’s pretty much it.”

Stafford’s insights reveal her passion for Phyllis Summers and her appreciation for the complexity of the soap’s narratives. Fans of The Young and the Restless can look forward to more of her committed performances, whether in dramatic affairs, rivalries, or the high-stakes drama that continues to unfold in Genoa City.