ARTICLE: ‘As The World Turns’ Alum Colleen Zenk Joins ‘The Young and the Restless’ as Claire’s Aunt Jordan

[Errol]

Fans of “As The World Turns” alum Colleen Zenk (ex-Barbara Ryan) who have been clamoring to see her back on daytime in a hot, juicy role got their wish on the Friday, November 17 episode of CBS’ “The Young and the Restless” when the three-time Daytime Emmy Award nominee appeared on the series as Jordan, the devious aunt who is seemingly running things when it comes to her niece Claire (Hayley Erin).

Look for Jordan to stir things up in Genoa City as she has some scores to settle with the Newman Family, particularly Nikki (Melody Thomas Scott) who is currently being held captive by Claire.

Photo by Sonja Flemming/CBS

As seen at the end of the episode, Claire is standing in front of a mirror fixing herself up when Aunt Jordan walks in, startling her, telling Claire, “Don’t get soft on me now, Claire.” She added, “We have waited so long and we are so very, very close,” as a seemingly frightened Claire stares back at her.

Photo by Sonja Flemming/CBS

In an interview with PEOPLE, Zenk told the publication of Jordan’s motives, saying, “Prior to my showing up in Genoa City, I have sent my great niece to maneuver her way into the inner sanctum of the Newman family, which she has done quite successfully.”

Although Zenk declined to speak on whether she had joined the soap on a contract basis as a series regular, she did tell PEOPLE of her experience thus far, “I just can’t get over how loving everyone has been to me. In fact, I kept crying the first couple of days.” She noted, “It was just so overwhelming. I really didn’t expect it. I’m a New York actor coming into their show. It’s not my show, it’s their show and I just didn’t know how they would respond.”

Photo by Sonja Flemming/CBS

Despite her storied career on “As The World Turns” and her performances in several New York theatre productions, Zenk’s joining “The Young and the Restless” marks her first time working in Hollywood, having never worked in the Los Angeles area, per her conversation with PEOPLE.

“I am just a newbie here. I know nothing,” she tells the outlet. “I found a fabulous, wonderful restaurant where I’ve eaten nearly every meal, four blocks away from where I’m staying, so that’s been great.”

Photo by Sonja Flemming/CBS

Since the cancellation of “As The World Turns” in 2010, Zenk has kept herself busy, appearing in episodes of “Blue Bloods,” “American Criminal,” “Tainted Dreams” and “After Forever.” She originated the role of Barbara Ryan on “As The World Turns” in 1978 and remained on the series until its end. 

For more from Zenk on her return to daytime, click here.

Watch a clip from Zenk’s debut on “The Young and the Restless” below.

Note: The post ‘As The World Turns’ Alum Colleen Zenk Joins ‘The Young and the Restless’ as Claire’s Aunt Jordan appeared first on the Soap Opera Network website.

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[Soapsuds]

Something to look forward to again in the soap world. Love the new spoiler photos.

[AMCOLTLLover]

Oh no and she choose the most boring soap out of them all

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[Soapsuds]

Seriously there isn't a good one left. At least she's at the highest rated soap.

Edited November 17, 2023 by Soapsuds

[AMCOLTLLover]

Fair enough..

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[DramatistDreamer]

Colleen is marvelous but I don’t think she originated the role of Barbara Ryan on ATWT, did she? Weren’t there a couple of actresses who were in the role before her? Obviously she was the most memorable actress to play the character and the longest running one.

[Errol]

Yes, she didn't "originate" the role. I mistakenly just wrote what CBS gave in their press release. The role was first introduced in 1971 played by two different actresses. However, once departing in 1972, the character didn't appear again until 1978 with Zenk in the role. Therefore, she "originated" who we know to be Barbara Ryan vs. the previous portrayals.

[DramatistDreamer]

A good refresher Errol

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 I figured it was the press release that put it out there. 

I only recall because of a funny anecdote that Colleen Zenk told about taking over the role and basically spending the first few episodes going around apologizing for what the character had done under a different actress. I guess even then the character had started to become something of a troublemaker.

[Contessa Donatella]

How is it we think she didn't just choose the one who made her an offer? 

[Paul Raven]

Apart from a short lived romance with Tom Hughes I don't think original Barbara had much story.Maybe she was opposed to her mom getting involved with Bob. But really I have never even seen any mention of her apart from stating she was Jennifer's daughter. So I can't imagine what Colleen's  Barbara would have to apologize for.

[RavenWhitney]

Love her but Griffith/Beall will take a great actress and waste her as they did with Robert Newman.

[DramatistDreamer]

Welp, that anecdote was from Zenk herself.

Apparently, there were three actresses before CZ. Has anyone ever interviewed Judi Rolin to find out what her experience was on the show? I think I will do a quick check to see if there is anything out there. I am intrigued.

[Vee]

I just know Donna Wandrey who I know well from Dark Shadows was apparently one of the Barbaras. Maybe the first?

[Soapsuds]

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