Summer Newman’s exit has left a major hole on The Young and the Restless—but could the iconic Hunter King be returning to fill it? With no replacement in sight, fans are hoping for a shocking comeback. Will the beloved actress step back into Genoa City? The buzz is real, but is a return happening? Find out the truth!

The Young and the Restless fans are buzzing with excitement after Summer Newman’s sudden exit left a gap in Genoa City’s iconic Newman family. With Allison Lanier stepping away from the role, speculation has turned to Hunter King, the original Summer. Could she return to the soap that made her a star, or is her time in daytime TV truly over?

Summer’s Exit Sparks a Wave of Return Rumors

When Allison Lanier left Y&R, the void left by Summer Newman’s departure was felt deeply by fans. Summer, the daughter of Nick and Phyllis and granddaughter of Victor Newman, has long been a central figure in the soap’s storyline. Her absence has caused waves of fan speculation, especially given how important her character is to the show’s drama.

As whispers began, fans immediately turned to Hunter King, who portrayed Summer with confidence for years before departing the role in 2022. Could she return to fill the void left behind by Lanier’s exit?

Hunter King’s Busy Career

While it’s tempting to think of a Hunter King return, recent developments suggest it’s unlikely. In early 2025, King confirmed her involvement in The Neighborhood Season 7, marking a major leap in her primetime career. This move shows her rising star in the entertainment world, and juggling a role in Y&R with such a demanding schedule would be challenging, to say the least.

Moreover, King has a multi-picture deal with Hallmark, where she’s been thriving in romantic films. With a full calendar of projects, it’s clear that her focus is now on exploring new opportunities outside of daytime TV. A return to The Young and the Restless seems unlikely at this moment, but the soap world is known for its surprises.

Fan Theories Are Off the Charts

Despite Hunter King’s current commitments, fans continue to dream up theories about her potential return. Some speculate that she might reprise the role of Summer, but with a twist—perhaps as a revamped Summer working at Marchetti, launching a bold new chapter. Others believe Summer could team up with Billy Flynn’s Cane Ashby, bringing business and drama back to Y&R in a new and fiery direction.

These fan-driven theories highlight the lasting impact King had on the show. Summer’s business savvy, strong personality, and deep connection to the Newman family make her an essential character in the soap’s universe—if she were to return.

Is a Return Possible? Not Right Now, But Who Knows?

At present, there’s no official word from either Y&R or Hunter King herself about a potential return. With no casting announcements or teasers to support the rumors, these whispers remain purely speculative. But in the world of soap operas, anything can happen. While King seems to be focused on primetime and Hallmark projects, Y&R has been known to bring characters back under surprising circumstances.

There’s no word on a recast for Summer, either. The character is still written out, leaving room for her to return at some point—perhaps even with a new face or, if her schedule permits, Hunter King herself. Summer’s absence has created a storyline gap, and it’s clear that someone will need to step in. However, whether that someone is King remains uncertain.

The Verdict: Will Hunter King Return?

As of now, the answer is no. Hunter King is busy making a name for herself in primetime and Hallmark films, leaving little room for a return to Y&R. Still, in the unpredictable world of soap operas, the door is never fully closed. While fans will have to wait for the return of Summer Newman, whether it’s Hunter King or another actress, one thing’s for sure: Y&R is far from done keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for all the latest updates on your favorite soap stars and their futures!