Billy Miller
Words cannot begin to express what has been going through my head since I heard the heartbreaking news of Billy Miller’s passing. He was an extraordinary talent who could light up any room just by his mere presence alone. His work garnered him three Daytime Emmy Award statuettes, and was loved by fellow peers and colleagues.
Some fond memories of Miller stemmed from when I first met him in 2009. I had the actor on my podcast a year prior to that, but it felt different when I finally had the chance to meet him face to face. Ironically, it was at Six Flags in New Jersey, but I am more referring to when I saw him again in Los Angeles several weeks later. I attended an event at the Sheraton Hotel for, “The Young and the Restless,” and after dinner, I went to the bar. After having nothing but watered down tea, I was in the mood for something a little stronger. While sitting there, Billy and several other cast members came down to the bar at the hotel, and introduced me to everyone. First off, he did not have to do that, and secondly, it was so heartfelt. The fact he went out of his way to let them know who I was…completely touched by it. He proceeded to buy me a drink…which in turn he made fun of because I was drinking some type of sweet wine. I cannot even remember, but it was the fact he poked fun at this was such a cool experience.
Before I get into this next part, I want to rewind the clock just a bit. Miller began his daytime career in 2007 when he played the role of Richie Novak on, “All My Children.” He would then make his way to, “Y&R,” as Billy Abbott, a role he would play from 2008-2014. The following year, Miller would join, “General Hospital,” as Jason Morgan, then Drew Cain. He would eventually depart the show in 2018. When I first spoke with Billy in 2008, I could tell he was very humble. This was a career he never took lightly. He was grateful for his craft, and was the type to let the work speak for itself. While he appreciated the compliments, it was not something he was used to at the time. That would catapult over time when he joined the CBS soap, as everyone, fans and colleagues alike, applauded his performance.
Miller always brought out the best in all of his scene partners. When it came to line delivery, his inexplicable humor, or just that sly grin of his, Billy just elevated the screen. You could tell he was having the time of his life. That same month in 2009, I attended my first ever Daytime Emmy Awards event. That night would eventually change my entire life going forward, and I owe a lot of that to Billy. I had the utmost respect for him after this, which is a memory that will stay with me for the rest of my time on Earth.
I always looked forward to seeing him after this, and the final time I got to was in 2017. We gave each other the biggest hug, asked how I was doing, and had a nice catch-up session. I never would have thought that would be the last time I would see him, but I was so glad I have that picture with him from that night.
That was the kind of man Billy was. He always went out of his way to make sure you were doing OK. He did look out for you (and me, in this case), and was a true gent to his profession. My heart sank when I heard the news of his death, and he was loved by many alike. Billy, your memory will always live on, and I personally want to thank you for everything you did for me and the BUZZ. You really were the best. I am going to miss you terribly.
To the family, friends, and fans of Billy Miller, I offer you my sincerest condolences. I am so sorry that such a young talent is now gone from this world. Rest easy, Billy. We love you.
