Melody Thomas Scott Interview - The Young and the Restless (40 Years of Nikki)

The Young and the Restless iconic Melody Thomas Scott (Nikki Newman) sits down with Michael Fairman and reflects on playing Genoa City's Nikki for 40 years as she celebrates her milestone with the CBS Daytime drama series. During the conversation, Melody talks about:her beginnings on the show as a stripper, Nikki's enduring relationship with Victor Newman (Eric Braeden) and the other men that were part of the history of Nikki's life, and more. Plus, Melody pays tribute to longtime co-star Jeanne Cooper (Katherine), and shares her heartbreak over the loss of castmate, Kristoff St. John (Neil Winters) who passed away a week before this interview was conducted.

[@juliebridge7590]

Melody, you are more Beautiful with each passing year!

[@barbaramelville6940]

Agree

[@emskid5]

I’ve been watching Nikki as a character on Y&R since I was a small child, thanks to my great-grandmother (whom I adored). This was one of my great childhood memories, so every time I watch Melody’s character, Nikki, I’m remembering my own beloved grandmother, who lives only in my memories. I was diagnosed with R-R MS about 3 years ago, so knowing Nikki’s character has already faced and triumphed over this disease replaced my own panic and fear with the courage to know that I’ll be ok. This, in my mind, IS the reason for your character’s struggles. Nikki’s character (always a lady) shows us all how to overcome and triumph over difficulties in life, so thanks for 40 years of shows that have helped me grow up and live as a lady. Thanks, Melody. Great interview from one of my favorites!

[@stwaters1147]

That purple on melody is breathtaking!

[@peggystoutemorin4529]

My favorite color. She wears it so very well.

[@debbiefelts5640]

I was thinking the same thing

[@susanhensley3463]

@@peggystoutemorin4529 ]⁰⁰

[@susanhensley3463]

@@peggystoutemorin4529 ]⁰⁰

[@susanhensley3463]

@@peggystoutemorin4529 ]⁰⁰

[@tulaa.4545]

She is so pretty. She looks better now than when she was really young !!! Keep on aging backwards Nicki !!! 🧡💛💙💚❤💖

[@robynheavner4689]

Thank you, Melody!!!! 40 years!! Congratulations sweet lady😇

[@diannekotcella2760]

It has been said that Melody Scott Thomas is the most loved actress on all the soaps....well I Agree!!!💕♥️💞💓I really love her so much. 🙏🙏🙏

[@duranddavis7710]

I’m turning 60 this year and this tv show had really been the constant in my life with my own trials and tribulations.

[@taylorkendricks599]

Can I get an Amen up in here?

[@barbaramelville6940]

Love

[@kimstravels2307]

The 40th anniversary episode made me cry. I wish we could watch every episode from the beginning. Kristoff's farewell in April is going to be brutal. He was so loved as all our favorites on the show have been throughout the years. It's tough when they are gone, but even harder under these circumstances. Thank you Bill Bell for bringing us Y & R.

[@jamjenABC]

I love Melody! and of course Nikki

[@bryanariza1063]

She is the main reason I still watch Y&R! She is iconic!

[@joannaceci2441]

I met this woman a long time ago.I also got an autograph and picture with her myself and my nonna rip:) She was nice

[@dannymiller7880]

She sounds like a lovely person, and no to mention, stunning

[@patseycline4978]

Now I think Melody Thomas is a great actress and I hope and pray she stays on she's very beautiful young woman thank you and I will continue to watch Young and the Restless also all the actors and actresses vantastic thank you

[@mikej3187]

I've been a fan since 1980...... Love you Melody....you've made Y & R so much fun

[@sarahsiskin6780]

I actually remember when she first came onto the show! I was 18. She’s been great fun to watch.

[@dianejackson]

I used to watch 4 soaps back in the 70's The Young and The Restless was the best of them all. I decided then to drop the other 3 and I'm so glad that I did, Nikki is one of my favorite actors. Congratulations on your 40th anniversary. Kristof is missed by his great acting and his love for everyone and I so miss Jeanne Cooper I loved her.

[@LibbyRal]

I never like Catherine. When she drove off the cliff, killing Philip and leaving pregnant Jill bereft, that sealed the deal. I do love that they made an older actor such a pivotal character on the show

[@wandajames6234]

I well remember when she joined the show, how cute she was-- my age but looked younger-- I haven't watched in a long time but I came across this and couldn't stop watching it-- she's as nice as I always suspected she was-- you just can't fake naturalness, it's either there or it's not, and she's still got it in spades-- way to go Melody/Nicky, thanks for the memories!

[@barbibutton9619]

Thank you beautiful Melody. Thank you for years of great acting that gave us Nikki Newman. You are an amazing, one-of-a-kind woman and star actress.

[@jamiekirkland7918]

Melody Thomas Scott, I have watched you since I was 4 years old. I am now 43. So pretty much since you started. You are an icon sweet lady. I hope I can watch you for many more years to come. 💓💓

[@lisaosinski351]

Thank you for always staying true to character with Melody coming thru! I have MS and you truly nailed it. In many ways that are obvious and subtle. Very respective. Thank you for that

[@sheiladyck5863]

Melody, I started watching Y&R after I married my husband 40 years ago - so that would be the same year Nikki first arrived in Genoa City 😊. My daughter and I were lucky enough to have had the chance to meet Jeanne Cooper once at The Rio in Las Vegas, and she was as down to earth as you seem to be - she was so kind to us and we had a wonderful visit with her! This was a fun interview to watch!

[@silentsister9588]

I love her so much! I have been there with her, every bit of that 40 years. Great actress!!!

[@lizaroberts9167]

What a lovely, down to earth lady!

[@katharinegainey7256]

Liza Roberts h66

[@peggyhall7795]

Love you Nikki.I have watched the young since I got married 49 years ago.Now that my husband has retired he won't miss an episode. He tapes it if he has to go somewhere. Keep up the good work . We love you and Victor. Miss Kristoff. RIP

[@SusanJamiesonKennedy]

I have been watching since this was shot live! I love them all. We will so miss Kristoff. May perpetual light shine upon him.

[@riririri8535]

This made me cry and sad about the passing of this great actor and he was beloved from all fans and friends and coworkers, Rest In Peace Kristoff St.John. He will be missed and congrats for 40 yrs on Y&R Nikki Newman love you as well.

[@eternitycollection]

Amen!

[@mipopee]

Tanya Harris, LLD n;

[@mipopee]

K

[@barbaramelville6940]

Rip

[@teresahuddleston]

LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU MELODY!!! I do not know what I would do without my lunchtime escapes to Genoa City! I have been a fan since I was a kid in the 70's! I really enjoyed the Nicki episode! Thank you for being such an awesome actress!

[@eternitycollection]

thanks so much Nikki for sharing your moment with ST. John... happy 40th anniversary & thank you for dedicating your life to bring us this service. My grandma got me hooked on you & victor when I was 5yrs old. She'd cover my eyes everytime you & victor kiss. Now I'm 43 & am so grateful that out of all the soaps that has gone off the air... y&r maintained. thank you & God bless you pretty. LOVE You ST. John :-)

[@ChristopherIGomes]

With television as horrible as it has become.. these shows with their veteran characters are needed more than ever.... familiarity and love... Congrats... Ms. Scott!!

[@SusanJamiesonKennedy]

still crushed they took off the rest of them! How could they?? I would still be watching them. Remember how great it was when VCRs came out and we watched commercial free at night, realizing after a hard days work. I miss those days

[@ChristopherIGomes]

Yes I taped it for my Mom!! Lol!!!

[@darkskinnedchic6267]

Christopher I. Gomes: I used to tape episodes on the VCR for my mother as well. Luckily for me, she's STILL alive!!

[@dianesanders2455]

Love you too, Melody! I've watched Y&R for YEARS and love your character Nikki! My heart goes out to you and all your co-actors on the loss of Kristoff. Such a fine looking man and actor. He'll be deeply missed :(

[@tiffanyc8307]

Been watching since I was 12, it’s nice to know people still love what they do love Y&R!!!!!

[@deborahakers5548]

Such a great actress, beautiful, smart, classy and so down to earth! Congratulations Ms. Scott

[@paulasmith4504]

😅 🎉

[@rhondathornton7800]

My favorite soap been watching since I was a teenager Love the interview. Thank you! RIP Kristoff you will be missed !

[@summerbumpkin8729]

Love this show and have been a fan for 40 yrs!! Melody is a sweetheart! Love Sharon, Jack and Victor too!

[@HeartVisions]

What a great interview! LOVE Melody/Niki and have watched her since her first day. I’ve actually watched Y&R since the first episode; damn I’m old! 😊😊

[@carolthomas9263]

HeartVisions my parents watched the show and me and hubby always watched still watching her Love the part she plays, and she’s such a beautiful lady, keep up the good work Melody congratulations on your success.

[@rogzettalipscomb8340]

I was a little girl when y&r came on TV but I started watching in the 90s I love melody she's is the best keep up the great work melody live you

[@10highflush]

This was a great interview. Love Melody.... congrats to her on 40 years (that is hard to believe).

[@marilynwelther5823]

Thank you for doing this interview. I hope all YR fans will hear about the video and enjoy it too.

[@claudiawhite9772]

She is one of the Icon of this show but mostly the classiest sweetest smart lady!! Great actor and a true lady !! All these veteran actors are a joy to watch every day like part of the family!!

[@booklover6198]

Always loved her! Classy and beautiful lady! ❤🌹

[@JanieMartinSings]

This was so wonderful Michael! Melody is wonderful! I never got to meet her, but I had the privilege of singing at the Aladdin for Jeannie Cooper's birthday party in the early 80's I first met Jeannie on the set of The Kansas City Bomber in Oregon and then again at a fashion show in Oregon where they sat her next to me. She was the guest of honor. At the after party she keep looking at me and smiling. I was dressed up trying to look like Joan Collins with my big floppy hat. She asked me what I did and I said I was a singer. She asked me to send her a recording which I did and then I got invited to the party and I sang with Arthur Mancini on the piano. I got to dance the tango with Quinn Redeker who surprised me with a phone call about 2 or 3 years ago. He wanted me to send him my CD. I miss Jeannie. You can see photos of me singing there from my website photo's page. JanieMartinSings. Thank you for this interview with wonderful Melody. Janie Martin (Also a Hypnotist)

[@thelittlefairylady9757]

Melody Thomas Scott is right. I was laughing, I was crying! It was perfect and only she could have done it. Thank you so much for uploading this

[@evelyndenully4804]

Congratulations Melody! I have been watching Niki since I was a teenager. I loved the the way how you gave Niki so much class and grace despite all the challenges over the years. I truly admire this character so much. Yes you are right Niki and Neil had so much chemistry. I miss and love him so much. Such a beautiful soul that gone to soon. Just too soon. May he RIP.

[@LCSALL]

I was one of those that was in tears. It was so good and it caused me to fall even more head long in love with Victor.

[@laquiolagrant5351]

I love Nikki an Victor so much love between them i enjoy watching them happy anniversary Nikki love u so much

[@ronnettnorfleet3626]

It's sad we have only 4 soaps left due to terrible reality shows. I grew up watching the cbs soaps line up with my Grandmother and Mother. R.I.P Kristoff .😥

[@emichaelw2003]

Ronnett Norfleet I remember back in 05 when a tv analyst said that within 10 years there wouldn’t be any soaps on tv. I didn’t believe it until slowly great shows like GL, ATWT (that were beloved and had been on for years) started getting cancelled.

[@slsteam6912]

ABC, CBS, and NBC need to bring the daytime soaps back from cancellation. I am sick of all the talk shows, news, news, news, news, and cooking shows. Better yet, all these digital channels like JusticeTV, MeTV, AntennaTV, Comet, Decades...how about creating a 24-hour classic soap opera channel!!!!!???????

[@mydogskips2]

@@emichaelw2003 Actually, I remember Kristoff St. John saying that very same thing in an interview once. Of course I didn't believe it, but it's amazing how prescient he was. I miss All My Children and ATWT.

[@mydogskips2]

@@slsteam6912 There was Soapnet(a channel devoted to daytime programs past and present) for a while, I don't know if they're still on. They showed the current broadcasts along with some classic shows I believe. The thing is soaps probably have a relatively high production cost compared to news, cooking, and talk shows. Oh, and let's not forget the court shows. Why Judge Judy makes $30+ million a year to act like a B is beyond me. And I think Soap Operas are a niche market as well, but of course all daytime TV is, really. It's just that daytime dramas have a very devoted fan base. But I'm with you, daytime reality shows are garbage.

[@paulaeasther4388]

Eric Wright I always loved watching those soaps with my mom and grandma!! Those were my favorite!! Things arent the same anymore smh wished they would have kept them on!

[@lindawilson7169]

This was such a wonderful interview Thank you Melody you are such a lovely person I love you Nicky Newman♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️😍😍😍😍😍😍😍🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@barbaradeheus6422]

I am so pleased that I saw this and was able to watch. I have watched Y & R since it's beginning and even though some of the storylines are stupid, I still watch faithfully.

[@JanieMartinSings]

One scene of Nikki I remember when she wore a black wig as Cleopatra I think. She looked so much like Liz Taylor. So beautiful!! Janie

[@HunterBidenCocaineBag]

She could easily be a diva. It's obvious she isn't. Refreshing!

[@buffysmith4278]

This is really crazy Melody and were i born on the same date same year same hospital in L.A. she was my moms favorite on the show. She is so beautiful.

[@margiethomas-hagins4708]

I'm so glad I watched this. Eileen you're so right. We grew up with Y & R. My family stops everything to make sure we watch daily. Or even binge watch. Thank you to the entire cast. We miss those who has gone before us. We love you all to life!

[@susanjensen1688]

This was a great interview I really enjoyed it. I watch the very first episode when I was younger with my mother. Nikki is one of my favorite in the show

[@rosariapellegrini6067]

Thank you for sharing this interview. Beautiful lady and actress . I relate to the MS story as my son has it. Don't ever leave our screen please. Not wearing a wedding ring? Love you melody ❤️

[@janetsplanet2947]

I really enjoyed seeing her authentic self. 👍

[@mszum9617]

Janet's Planet a

[@HoneyHoneyBaby]

Great interview...Thanks for sharing and Melody is so pretty in purple!

[@cpmffeilberg4970]

I was crying. It was great stuff. Congrats melody. What I like about KZbin vs Twitter and Instagram is people acknowledge the fans and how we feel.

[@momishka7]

Thank you Melody for being Nikki and being a strong woman in every mood of the role you play. xoxoxo

[@conithomson4409]

Melody is such an awesome lady as Nikki and as herself. She was so cute in the beginning and looks just as great today. Keep rocking on!!

[@bbsteele671]

Melody has been such a huge part of my life. I started watching the Y&R in 1983 with my Mom. Everyday we would talk about the show. I lost her 3 years ago and I keep watching and it might sound strange, but when something huge happens I still talk to Mom about it....lol Without the Y&R I don't know if that would still happen. So happy for you Melody. Congrats! One day I hope to tell you this in person. It would be a huge honor to meet you or even more so a guest spot or extra on an episode. Here is to 40 more!!! XOXOXO #1GuyYRfan

[@sharonqaranivalu5152]

She is an icon and I have enjoyed this footage thoroughly. Congrats to Nikki..many more years to come...I'll be watching.

[@sweetjazzygirl86]

She is such a natural beauty makeup or no makeup. I just loved the clips Thanks so much for being our Nikki

[@ilahildasissac1943]

Read her memior, it is really good.

[@darkskinnedchic6267]

2/27/19: With DRUMP-F's lawyer's trial being televised.....watching this was the only way to get my Y&R fix. Lovely lady and great interview.

[@HoneyHoneyBaby]

Wow...@2:18, "I wanna leave my imprint before I go!," So true, Kristoff definitely did that!

[@nadiag7243]

Omg this interview is so wonderful..her beauty as she gets older is astonishing...her style is so gorgeous especially that hair and all those choices of clothing...shes genuinely glamorous an her speaking ability is so light hearted and captivating. 42 years is amazing...the day she an Eric leaves that would be the end of the show...no one else can carry it.

[@donnarichey144]

I love Melody and I always wondered how do they learn these lines and memorize them. I love this show. Thank you so much

[@NewYorkBeliever777]

Excellent interview. Thank-You, for sharing. 45 yr fan

[@Tameekarose]

Melody is still so beautiful

[@courtneyjones9291]

Loved today's episode Feb 20,2019 I've only just started watching ynr about four years ago because I was a All my Children fan this is my favorite show now

[@frankalderete6518]

I won’t forget Neil Winters RIP Kristoff St. John............. i loved Melody on Family Feud back in the 90’s!

[@tamiko99]

You are amazing. Congrats to 40 years.

[@rajdaidip6412]

the interview was great\ i like nikie newman she act so well \ thank u

[@rebeccagreen9240]

Nikki*

[@vickiy9625]

Nikki is my favorite character! She can be so funny and then turn around and play a dramatic scene that brings tears to my eyes.

[@LibbyRal]

What a fantastic interview. I love seeing Melody's reaction to the men in her life. You asked her such marvelous questions. Thank you for this glimpse into a favorite actor from my favorite soap opera.

[@emh8861]

Great memories. The theme song always makes me happy.

[@MargieDalton]

Adore your interview Michael! Thank you love your KZbin ❤❤❤👍👏👏👏👏

[@henriettamccullough9692]

That's so sweet of you Thank sis melody love you

[@jenniferwelch3821]

Melody Scott Thomas is such a beauty! You look beautiful in purple Melody! Have watched the show for 25 years with my Grandma starting out then with my mom. She is beautifyl and always stays so young looking! Love her!! Such a talented actress! Very sad to hear the news of Christoff St John. Another talented actor! Prayers for his family!

[@andyp2971]

I have no words, Melody Thomas Scott is absolutely beautiful inside and out. I adore her.

[@auntkittyhashtag2321]

Melody, you are the one and only NIKKI. I've watched Y&R since day one.You and Victor are legends, a true power couple. I do however miss Terry Lester aka the original Jack, and Brenda Dickson aka the original Jill. They too had a chemistry that never can be duplicated. Also Mr. Chancellor was a very fine looking man. RIP Jeannie Cooper, Christoff St. John Donnley Rhodes and all the other gone too soon actors who helped make Y&R what it is today. You are an ICON beautiful lady, and loved by many.🌷🌹💋💖

[@1marianne]

Really great interview. I only started watching #YR when ABC cancelled One Life to Live. I love learning more about Nikki's past. It's obvious Melody Thomas Scott loves and appreciates her role as Nikki Newman and her place in television history!

[@kathymorris8245]

I've watched this show since I was 7 years old. Best soap on earth. Still watch to this day. I want to see you and your cast shoot just 1 show. My summers growing up wouldn't have been the same without you. Watched from the say this show started. Love this shpw!

[@nancydurham6863]

Melody looked Amazingly Fabulous in that purple suit!!! She should definitely/absolutely without a doubt wear more purple!!! Even though this was 3 years ago I thoroughly enjoyed it. Michael, you always do such awesome interviews . Thanks so much for reposting this and please let Melody know how amazing she looked in this interview and especially the fact she should definitely wear more purple!!! It has nothing to do with the fact that purple is my favorite color, only that how amazing she looks in that color. I hope you, and Melody if she gets this, have a safe, Blessed, Super Saturday/Sunday as well as a wonderful upcoming week. Stay Healthy and God Bless You Both!!! Both of you Keep Up The Fantastic Work You Both Do!! Much Love to Both of You💜

[@wendyeskelin8765]

Very nice interview. I watched Y&R for probably 20 years. I stopped about 5-6 years ago because the writing had gotten so out of character. I am glad that Melody mentioned that. Very sad to hear about Kristoff.

[@wendyeskelin8765]

I also think as they started to change the sets the show lost a lot of appeal for me personally. The old Newman Ranch was amazing, and the new one and most of the new sets looked so much more cheaply made.

[@ginagraziano6914]

Congrats and thank you for entertaining me !!

[@dawnnaryan8186]

WE LOVE YOU TOO!!! XOXO

[@Flon17]

I remember when y&r started it was the new kid on the Block and Melodies only a year older than me now there's only 4 soap operas left

[@joannaherodotou1491]

Beautiful lady, was gorgeous back in the day.

[@kathlenemiller1195]

So wondered yesterday why Nikki had the entire hour, but so enjoyed it and congratulations on 40 years ms Scott. Loved you every year. I've been watching forever from the beginning..

[@pamoglesby]

I love her and Y&R I have been watching from the beginning.

[@marypatten4853]

Wow, Thank you for sharing ! You are a wonderful distraction from the rat race of life. I have watched Y and R from the beginning, my favorite show of all time.

[@jazzie-sanbelle99]

She's so awesome congrats on your anversaire

[@mildredlay914]

Happy 40 years love y&r

[@larannphipps6978]

A beautiful lady and amazing actress. Love Melody Thomas Scott ❤️

[@ultravioletpisces3666]

Some of my earliest memories are Nikki and Mrs chancellor and Ashley back in the late 70's early 80's

[@tiffanyc8307]

Seen the episode and I enjoyed it because I was too young when most scene came out

[@cheneysherry50]

I love Melody Thomas

[@amypardue4986]

OMG I JUST LOVE LOVE LOVE HER👑 .ONE OF THE BEST CHARACTER S EVER ON THE SHOW 💖R.I.P. C.S.J. NEIL AND SHE WEAR SUCH GREAT FRIENDS ON THE SHOW 👌🤗💖💖👊

[@angelabrown7182]

Your still very pretty Melody

[@deefra97]

love you Melody!!!

[@luckysol7486]

MELODY IS NOT ONLY VERY - VERY PRETTY , BUT ONE OF MOST UNUSUALLY BEAUTIFUL, ULTRA CAPTIVATING, OVERLY IRRESISTIBLE WOMEN I'VE EVER SEEN, ESPECIALLY A FLASHBACK OF HER YOUNGER YEARS !

[@terrietsj9104]

She's a lovely captivating woman. When she was very young she was very beautiful and still is. Also a believable actress.

[@yolandahines2762]

She looks very active and beautiful on Y&R. I love watching that soap opera program.

[@cathyip8709]

I love you Nikki Newman❤️ you are such a beautiful n lovely lady. For me you and Victor is the best couple. I love both of you. All the best👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️