Bryton James began his acting career when he was just a toddler. He landed his very first commercial audition for Disney Mattel at the tender age of 2. By the time he was 3, Bryton won his first television series role, playing Richie on Family Matters. He appeared on the show throughout its nine-year run.
After a brief career detour as a recording artist, Bryton was cast as Devon Hamilton on CBS’s The Young and the Restless (Y&R) in 2004 and is marking 20 years in the role.
Reflecting on Early Days
You were 17 when you joined the cast of Y&R as Devon. Could you ever have imagined that 20 years later, you would be doing an interview about your anniversary?
Bryton James: No, not at all. I’ll never forget my audition day. I had interviews for a national Coca-Cola commercial and then a soap opera audition. My mom watched soaps like General Hospital my whole life growing up. All I knew of soap operas were their adult storylines. I never really thought what a show would want with a 17-year-old. Instead, Y&R was the best audition I’d ever had
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Bryton emphasizes how welcomed and at home he felt right away during his early days on the show. He recalls finding out that the studio teacher for Y&R was the same one he had on Family Matters, which made it feel like coming home to a brand-new environment.
Forming Close Connections
Bryton has formed strong connections with his fellow actors over the years.
Bryton James:It’s the best part of going to work and it always has been…Especially with Christel [Khalil]. When you get to go to work and see someone that you know that well and trust that much, on and off stage, it’s a real pleasure
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One of Bryton’s mentors was the late Kristoff St. John [ex-Neil Winters]. Bryton appreciated Kristoff’s ability to maintain a balance of fun and professionalism.
A Choice to Stay
When asked if he ever made a conscious choice to stay with Y&R, Bryton reveals it wasn’t really a conscious decision. He acknowledges the legacy of The Young and the Restless, demonstrating an appreciation for both its history and its fans.
Memorable Storylines
Bryton reflects on some of Devon Hamilton’s most memorable storylines:
Bryton James: I think definitely Devon losing his hearing…The challenge of it was a lot of fun…I was out having lunch and a fan came by my table and just left a note…They wrote that they were deaf and they lost their hearing at a very young age…and how much they admired my performance
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A Unique Experience
Bryton explains how growing up on camera has affected his perspective:
Bryton James:I’ve been very fortunate to be used to growing up in front of the camera…It can only help improve the performance…So, it’s been a great experience…
. Over his time on Y&R, he’s gotten married, divorced, lost a parent—all personal experiences which he has channeled into his character’s journey.
Pride in Longevity
Reflecting on being part of Y&R for two decades, Bryton shares feelings of pride and honor:
Bryton James: It’s a privilege and it’s an honor to be a part of a legacy like Young and Restless that the Bell family created. It means everything…
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