Summer Newman might be making a surprise comeback on The Young and the Restless. A new Instagram photo featuring Allison Lanier has sparked wild fan speculation. Viewers believe the CBS soap could be preparing for Summer’s return, and they aren’t imagining things—there are clues hiding in plain sight.
Lanier’s Set Sighting Raises Eyebrows, While Summer’s Storyline Remains Active
Allison Lanier left The Young and the Restless in early May, and fans were told there were no immediate recast plans. However, a recent Instagram post by Elizabeth Hendrickson (Chloe) has ignited fresh hope. Hendrickson, now directing, shared behind-the-scenes photos, and one of them featured Lanier with castmates Melissa Claire Egan (Chelsea) and Courtney Hope (Sally).
That photo revealed more than a friendly group shot. It likely came from a taping session tied to Hendrickson’s directorial debut, which airs August 5. That places filming in early July—long after Lanier’s exit. If she’s on set again, it strongly suggests a comeback may already be underway.
But there’s still a chance it’s an older image. Hendrickson stated she’d been “shadowing, observing & absorbing” for 18 months before her directorial debut. So this photo could be from that earlier training phase. Still, the timing seems far too convenient.
Even more suspicious, the clothing seen in the photo lines up with outfits from the scene where Sally and Chelsea gave Summer their resignation from Marchetti. But soap wardrobes can be repeated, so that detail isn’t definitive. Still, the clues are stacking up.
Even more intriguing is the show’s continued focus on Summer’s absence. Kyle recently mentioned texting her from France. Phyllis said she needed to update Summer on Chance’s recent tragedy. These name-drops feel intentional and signal unfinished business.
Soap writers usually avoid unnecessary mentions unless a return is being plotted. This kind of subtle groundwork usually paves the way for a surprise re-entry—often when viewers least expect it. So far, there’s been no official announcement, but the puzzle pieces are forming.
The Young and the Restless: Summer’s Legacy Status Makes Her Too Important to Stay Away for Long
Summer Newman isn’t a background character. She’s deeply woven into Genoa City’s biggest families—the Newmans and the Abbotts. Her relationships with Kyle and Harrison hold emotional weight. Her prolonged absence doesn’t feel permanent, especially for a character so closely tied to the canvas. It’s been hard for viewers to accept that Summer would willingly stay away from her son Harrison this long. Even a hot Italian romance wouldn’t keep her away forever. Her exit felt abrupt, with little payoff, which often hints at temporary removals before a dramatic return.
Fan forums have been buzzing ever since the Instagram post dropped. Many believe Allison Lanier is already filming again. Some speculate a recast could be in the works if Lanier isn’t returning. Either way, it’s clear the show has unfinished business with Summer. Even if the Instagram photo was an older snap, it’s done its job. Theories are flying, fan excitement is building, and The Young and the Restless is once again the center of attention. That alone speaks volumes about Summer’s impact.
As of now, CBS has made no formal statement, and Lanier hasn’t commented. But we all know how soaps work—surprises come when we least expect them. This could be one of those moments where fan wishes finally come true. The Young and the Restless may be gearing up for Summer Newman’s big return. Whether it’s Allison Lanier or a recast, signs point to something brewing. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for all the latest updates. Don’t blink—Genoa City surprises never come quietly!