Let me tell you about a true Hollywood legend, Jerry Douglas. Known for his unforgettable role as John Abbott in "The Young and the Restless," Jerry left an indelible mark on the world of television. Tragically, he passed away on November 9, 2021, at the age of 88 after battling a brief, undisclosed illness. He leaves behind his beloved second wife, Kym Douglas, and their three children—Jod, Hunter, and Avra. Keep reading to dive deeper into the life and love story of this remarkable man.
A Journey Through Jerry Douglas’ Life and Career
Jerry Douglas wasn’t just a familiar face on the small screen; he was a versatile actor with a career spanning decades. From 1982, he graced nearly 900 episodes of "The Young and the Restless," captivating audiences with his portrayal of John Abbott. But his talents weren’t confined to daytime soaps. Jerry also made memorable appearances in iconic series like "Mission: Impossible," "The Incredible Hulk," "The Greatest American Hero," and "Silent But Deadly." If that wasn’t enough, he even ventured into music, releasing a heartfelt album titled "The Best Is Yet to Come" in 2007. His contributions to the entertainment industry were as diverse as they were impactful.
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It’s hard to imagine Jerry Douglas without thinking of his incredible family. Just days before his passing, Jerry celebrated his 89th birthday with an early celebration alongside his "Young & Restless" costars. Following his death, Kym took to social media to express her grief, sharing how deeply she felt the loss of her husband. She opened up about their 36-year marriage, describing it as a journey filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Kym, now a well-known lifestyle and beauty expert, has always been by Jerry’s side, even from the tender age of 22.
Two Loves of a Lifetime: Jerry’s Marriages
Jerry’s first marriage was to actress Arlene Martel, a union that lasted from 1962 to 1973. Together, they welcomed two children into the world. Arlene, known for her roles in "The Twilight Zone" and "Battlestar Galactica," remained a cherished part of Jerry’s life long after their divorce. His second chapter of love began in 1983 when he met Kym Douglas during the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon. Their connection was instant, leading to a marriage that would span three decades and produce another child, Hunter.
Who Is Kym Douglas, the Love of Jerry’s Life?
Kym Douglas wasn’t just another face in the crowd. From the age of 16, she dedicated herself to building a career in television. When she met Jerry, she approached him with a request for an interview at the telethon. Little did she know, this encounter would lead to something far more meaningful. Jerry agreed to the interview—but only if Kym would join him for dinner. That night marked the beginning of a beautiful relationship, culminating in their marriage in 1985. Their son, Hunter, became a cherished member of the Douglas family, often featured in Kym’s Instagram posts.
Family was everything to Jerry and Kym. As Kym once revealed to "Woman’s World," Jerry insisted on prioritizing family dinners and hosting weekly guest nights every Sunday. These traditions kept their spirits nourished and their bond strong. Beyond her role as a loving wife and mother, Kym carved out her own successful career, appearing on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" and even starring in "The Bold and the Beautiful." Her resilience was put to the test in 2018 when she battled breast cancer, undergoing a double mastectomy and chemotherapy. Yet, she emerged victorious, using her experience to inspire others through her website and advocacy work.
Kym’s journey through cancer taught her to cherish every moment. In her own words, “I don’t take a single day for granted. I realize that every year and every day is a gift—a gift we need to accept and share with those we love.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the life she shared with Jerry, a life filled with gratitude, passion, and purpose.
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