On today’s episode of The Young and the Restless, Lily Winters made a life-altering decision that stunned viewers and sent shockwaves through Genoa City. In a tense and emotionally charged conversation, Lily told her ex-husband Cane that she could no longer stay in town—she needed to leave Genoa City to truly escape him and the painful history they share. Later, while at Crimson Lights, Lily quietly but firmly confirmed her plans by calling Devon, making it clear that her departure was real and imminent.

For longtime and sharp-eyed soap fans, this twist didn’t come as a complete surprise. For months, viewers have speculated that Christel Khalil, who portrays Lily, would soon be stepping away from the canvas for maternity leave—and now the storyline appears to be lining up perfectly.

The Young and the Restless: A Pregnant Pause Behind the Scenes

Christel Khalil is known for maintaining a very private personal life. Unlike many daytime stars who regularly post updates, selfies, and behind-the-scenes moments on social media, the Daytime Emmy winner keeps a low profile. In fact, her last Instagram post dates all the way back to July 2024, fueling curiosity among fans who watch closely for clues.

Those clues began appearing on-screen months ago. Devoted viewers noticed that Lily was suddenly being filmed more strategically—often seated, framed from the waist up, or carrying oversized purses to conceal what appeared to be a growing baby bump. This was particularly noticeable since Lily herself is not pregnant in the storyline.

Speculation intensified after Khalil participated in a group Halloween dance video set to Michael Jackson’s Thriller, filmed in the hallways of TV City in Hollywood, where Y&R tapes. After fans spotted her appearance in the video, several soap news outlets—including Soap Central—reported that the actress was expecting once again.

Khalil is already a proud mother of two sons: Michael, from a previous marriage, and Remy, whom she shares with her husband Sam Restagno, the managing director of a private investment firm.

While Lily Is Away…

As of now, Khalil has not publicly announced her pregnancy. Traditionally, maternity leave in daytime television can range from just a few weeks to several months, depending on the actress’s preference and the show’s production schedule. Soap studios are famously family-friendly—some actresses at TV City have even had cribs placed in their dressing rooms, and in some cases, babies have appeared on-screen when pregnancies are written into storylines.

Because soaps often pre-tape and post-tape scenes, Lily’s absence may be shorter than fans expect.

Still, her departure opens the door to major romantic and business developments. With Lily gone, Cane’s complicated connection with Phyllis Summers could deepen. Lily made it crystal clear to Cane that there is no future for them—no reconciliation, no second chances. Meanwhile, Cane knows that Phyllis could be a powerful ally as he tries to rebuild his life and career.

Some fans believe Phyllis may even owe Cane, considering it was her decision to hand over the highly valuable AI program to Victor Newman that ultimately led to Cane losing his company. As emotions and alliances shift, one question looms large:

Is Lily truly prepared to walk away—and possibly lose Cane to Phyllis forever?

Only time will tell. Stay tuned to The Young and the Restless for what happens next.