In her decades-long career as Lauren Fenmore Baldwin on The Young and the Restless, actress Tracey E. Bregman has endured kidnappings, plane crashes, yacht explosions, and even being buried alive. Through it all, she's proven herself to be one of daytime television's most iconic characters. Off-screen, Tracey, now 58, takes a more cautious approach to love and life, sharing with Closer, “I don’t believe in love at first sight, but I do believe in an instant connection.” Let’s dive into her fascinating life journey, from her early days in showbiz to her current passions.
Tracey E. Bregman’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since joining the world of soap operas in 1978 as Donna Temple Craig on Days of Our Lives, she’s captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Her portrayal of Lauren Fenmore on The Young and the Restless earned her a Daytime Emmy Award in 1985, cementing her legacy in the industry.
From London Sets to Hollywood Fame: Tracey’s Early Years
Growing up in London, Tracey was surrounded by the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world. Her father, Buddy Bregman, was a renowned musical arranger and producer, and her mother, Suzanne Lloyd, was an accomplished actress. Despite this, Tracey’s first love wasn’t acting—it was animals. “I wanted to be a veterinary surgeon,” she recalls with a smile. But fate had other plans.
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By the time she was 11 or 12, Tracey found herself holding her father’s script and realizing acting might be her true calling. Her first gig? A hand model for Mattel toys. Not long after, at just 14, she became the face of Apple Jacks cereal. “Right after that, I landed Days of Our Lives. It was supposed to be a three-day stint, but it turned into almost three years,” she reminisces.
Meeting Legends: The Privilege of Growing Up in Showbiz
Tracey’s childhood was far from ordinary. Surrounded by music legends like Sammy Davis Jr. and Ella Fitzgerald, she absorbed the magic of the entertainment world. Her father’s work with Verve Records brought him into contact with some of the biggest names in music. “I didn’t have a normal childhood, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” she says. One memorable encounter was meeting David Bowie. “I was around 8 or 9 and just wandered into a studio where he was recording. It was surreal!”
Life Lessons and Career Highlights
Despite her star-studded upbringing, Tracey remains refreshingly down-to-earth. “There’s no reason to get a big head,” she insists. “Acting is hard work, and the hours are long, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.” When asked about her favorite acting job, she doesn’t hesitate: “Playing Lauren Fenmore has been amazing. It’s allowed me to balance my career with motherhood, which was always important to me.”
Balancing Motherhood and Show Business
Raising two sons while maintaining a demanding acting career wasn’t easy, but Tracey managed it with grace. “Thank God I started young because I don’t know how I did it,” she laughs. “The studio was so noisy that my kids learned to sleep through anything. They were incredibly adaptable.” Her younger son, Landon, followed in her footsteps as an actor and musician, while her eldest, Austin, pursued a successful career in business. “I always tell everyone to have a Plan B,” Tracey advises. “It’s a tough business, but if you’re talented and passionate, you can make it work.”
Life Beyond the Screen
When she’s not filming, Tracey enjoys spending time at her horse farm in Nashville. “I have six horses—five of them rescues—and I love nothing more than riding when the weather permits,” she says. Staying fit is also a priority for the actress. “I’ve been doing Pilates since I was 24, but now I focus on the Pilates Pro Chair Max. It’s transformed my body and even my 89-year-old mom loves it!”
Words of Wisdom and Reflections on Love
Looking back on her life, Tracey shares some sage advice: “If I could go back, I’d tell myself to embrace life more fully. Don’t cover up—wear that bikini and enjoy the moment!” Spirituality plays a big role in her life too. “I meditate regularly and have my own practice. It keeps me grounded,” she explains. As for love, she’s taking things slow after a long relationship. “I’d love to find someone to share my life with, but marriage? Probably not again. I need a little time for myself right now.”
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Final Thoughts: Never Give Up
For anyone pursuing their dreams, Tracey offers this simple yet powerful advice: “Play to your strengths, know your audience, and never give up. Life is full of challenges, but with perseverance, you can achieve anything.”
