Tamara Braun’s recent introduction as Sienna Bacall on “The Young and the Restless” has sparked significant viewer interest, particularly with the revelation of her husband, Mitch Bacall. Speculation about Mitch being played by Roger Howarth was confirmed with the release of a promotional video titled “Meet the Bacalls.” However, the plot thickened on the October 31 episode when it was disclosed that Mitch is, in fact, the dreaded Matt Clark, a formidable figure from Sharon (Sharon Case) and Nick’s (Joshua Morrow) past. Howarth shared insights into his much-anticipated return to the daytime drama and his complex new character.
With a storied career that includes a Daytime Emmy for his iconic role as Todd Manning on “One Life to Live,” Howarth has established himself as a veteran in the soap opera arena. He is also recognized for his roles on “As the World Turns” and “General Hospital.” His collaboration with Y&R’s Executive Producer Josh Griffith dates back to their time together at OLTL, and Howarth expressed his trust in Griffith’s vision for his character.
When discussing his transition to Y&R, Howarth shared his enthusiasm for the role of Matt Clark. Griffith assured him that his character would be compelling and that he would be collaborating with talented individuals. Howarth emphasized the importance of visual elements in character development, crediting the show’s costume designer, Mandi Line, for making it easier to embody Matt Clark through careful attention to detail.
Having dealt with multiple recast roles throughout his career, Howarth approached preparing for Matt Clark by diving deep into the character’s backstory with the support of the writing team. He highlighted that Matt’s time away from Genoa City allowed him to evolve significantly, making his return all the more impactful.
Fans can expect the darker aspects of Matt Clark’s personality to surface quickly, with Howarth hinting that “Matt gets up to no good very, very quickly.” His interactions with veteran cast members Joshua Morrow and Sharon Case have been a highlight, and he looks forward to portraying a villain characterized by deep emotional needs and complexities.
As the storyline unfolds, viewers can anticipate the psychological layers of Matt’s deception, showcasing a character deeply committed to maintaining the facade of Mitch Bacall. Howarth explained that Matt’s deep-seated motivations and manipulative nature pave the way for compelling storytelling, resonating with the audience’s understanding of his troubled psyche.
Howarth expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans, emphasizing that the crux of their work is to entertain and engage audiences. With his arrival, the “Young and the Restless” promises a riveting journey filled with intrigue, drama, and unexpected turns as the notorious Matt Clark wreaks havoc once more in Genoa City. Fans are in for an exciting ride as the layers of deception, villainy, and emotional complexity are revealed in this classic soap opera twist.