After her emotional acceptance speech at the Daytime Emmys on June 7, where she won Outstanding Lead Actress, Michelle Stafford (Phyllis, The Young and the Restless) took to Instagram to clarify a comment she made during her speech.
The actress aimed to address what she referred to as a weird narrative
surrounding her gratitude toward Executive Producer and Head Writer Josh Griffith. In her Instagram post, Stafford explained, I need to kill this weird narrative that seems to be catching fire regarding the thing that I said to Josh Griffith on stage when I said ‘thank you for letting me cry in your office.’
Clarification of Her Emotional Outburst
Stafford continued, I usually wouldn’t give a sh*t. But I think actually sharing the story with you might be helpful to anyone who is experiencing grief.
She revealed that she had recently lost her stepfather Ed Lee in March, which was devastating. A scheduled meeting with Griffith about her character’s storyline triggered an outpouring of suppressed emotions.
A Personal Moment During a Professional Meeting
We were discussing a couple things and every time I talked about my character’s relationship with her children and aspects of how it would play out… this surge of emotion came over me,
Stafford confessed. She found herself weeping uncontrollably in Griffith’s office.
The Impact of Grief on Everyday Life
Sharing her experience further, she stated, After a loss you move on and you’re fine but then maybe you’re talking to, I don’t know, a co-worker or you see something at the market and something triggers some memory and you fall apart?
She thanked Griffith for his human and empathetic response during that vulnerable moment.
The Reality of Working Through Grief
Stafford acknowledged her embarrassment but also stressed the importance of having a supportive work environment. I’m very honored to work with people I also care about and who I believe care about me,
she concluded.
Co-Stars Extend Their Support
Following her post, several co-stars showed their support. Tracey E. Bregman (Lauren) commented, You were in a safe environment and that’s why emotions flow at work
. Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea) added, Love this story (minus your grief of course) and love this picture and love you!!!
Tamara Braun (Ava, Days of Our Lives) replied, I am so glad you had that experience with Josh… Grief… it bobs and weaves and hits you at times that surprise the hell outta you. Hang in there beauty. It’s love.
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