What happened to the original Ridge on “Bold and the Beautiful”? This question has been on the minds of many fans of the popular American soap opera since the character’s sudden departure in 2019. Ridge Forrester, played by the iconic actor Thomas Hopper, was a central figure in the show for over three decades, but his departure left a significant void in the storyline. This article delves into the reasons behind Ridge’s exit and the impact it had on the series.
The original Ridge on “Bold and the Beautiful” was introduced in 1987 and quickly became a fan favorite. As the son of Forrester Enterprises’ founder, Ridge was a powerful, charismatic, and often controversial character. Over the years, he was involved in numerous dramatic storylines, including love triangles, business rivalries, and legal battles. His character’s complexity and depth made him a fan favorite, and his departure was met with mixed reactions.
The reasons behind Ridge’s exit were multifaceted. One of the primary reasons was the expiration of Thomas Hopper’s contract. As an actor, Hopper had been with the show for over 30 years, and it was time for him to explore new opportunities. The producers of “Bold and the Beautiful” respected Hopper’s decision and sought to find a suitable replacement for Ridge.
In the aftermath of Hopper’s departure, the show introduced a new Ridge, Thomas Glen, played by Thomas Calabro. Although Calabro was a talented actor, fans were initially skeptical about the new character’s chemistry with the existing cast. However, over time, Calabro’s portrayal of Ridge has grown on the audience, and he has become a beloved member of the “Bold and the Beautiful” family.
Despite the introduction of a new Ridge, the departure of the original character left a noticeable gap in the series. The original Ridge was a pivotal figure in the show’s history, and his absence has had a significant impact on the storyline. Many fans felt that the show lost its identity without the iconic character, and the ratings took a hit in the months following his departure.
In an effort to bridge the gap left by the original Ridge, the producers of “Bold and the Beautiful” have introduced new storylines and characters. They have also worked to integrate the new Ridge into the existing narrative, ensuring that he remains a central figure in the show. However, it remains to be seen whether the new Ridge can fill the shoes of the original character and restore the show’s former glory.
As fans of “Bold and the Beautiful” continue to reflect on the original Ridge’s departure, it is clear that his impact on the series cannot be overstated. While the show has adapted to the change, the void left by the original Ridge is still evident. The character’s legacy will always be a part of the show’s history, and his storylines will continue to be remembered by fans for years to come.
In conclusion, the departure of the original Ridge on “Bold and the Beautiful” was a significant event for the show and its fans. While the introduction of a new Ridge has helped to fill the void, the original character’s legacy will always be a part of the series. As the show continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether the new Ridge can live up to the expectations set by his predecessor.
