The Young and the Restless Recap for January 23, 2026 highlights rising tension as Mariah spiraled under Ian’s influence while Sally reached a breaking point with Billy. Abby and Devon enjoyed time with Dominic, unaware that danger shadowed their family. Every storyline pushed emotions toward darker turns.
Audra Faces Amy’s Fury and Sally Reaches Her Limit
Audra crossed paths with Amy at Crimson Lights and hoped to repair their strained bond. Amy listened, yet distrust lingered. Holden’s sudden arrival added pressure, and Audra tried dismissing their past. Amy quickly recognized the lie and refused to overlook it. That rejection left Audra shaken.
Holden and Audra argued again until Sally appeared and cut through their tension. Sally questioned the nature of Holden’s hold over Audra, but Audra changed the focus. Sally opened up about her growing frustration with Billy’s failures and revealed her new plan. The shift marked a turning point for both women.
Sally delivered news about Chancellor issues and decided Billy was no longer dependable. She prepared to contact Jill and build her own support team. Audra’s name came up as a possible hire. Sally believed this might be the bold move needed to secure Abbott Communications. Audra listened, surprised yet interested.
The Young and the Restless Recap: Abby and Devon Reflect While Nate Weighs His Future
At Society, Abby and Devon discussed the Newman attack before moving to Cane’s recent actions. Abby admitted she wasn’t surprised by Cane’s latest chaos. Devon appreciated her insight and agreed to meet later, excited about taking Dominic ice skating with friends. Their brief exchange set a warm tone.
After Abby left, Devon found Nate and asked about his connection with Victoria. Nate insisted neither wanted a new romance. He remained cautious and distant. Amy arrived later and updated Nate on her rough encounter with Audra. She still felt torn, though she wanted Nate to find real happiness again.
At the park café, Abby enjoyed warm drinks with Dominic while waiting for Devon and friends. She reflected on her unique bond with the little boy and how she loved their connection. Dominic seemed thrilled to be there. Abby cherished the moment, unaware their peace would soon collapse.
Mariah Breaks Under Pressure And Ian Tightens His Grip
Alone in her motel room, Mariah wrote in her journal and admitted she felt undeserving of her blessings. She imagined Tessa and Aria seeing through her façade if she returned home. Her turmoil grew heavier, and Ian’s influence continued to deepen that destructive guilt. She felt powerless.
Mariah discovered her contacts missing from her new phone, yet she remembered Abby’s number. She hesitated but dialed anyway. Abby answered, thinking a parent might be calling. Mariah froze and hung up. Ian appeared instantly and pressed her to stay committed. Mariah resisted, but Ian refused to ease up.
He demanded progress and pushed her toward the disturbing plan he supported. Mariah went to the park and watched Abby, Devon, and Dominic from a distance. She took pictures and brought them back to Ian. He praised her involvement and insisted she was close to completing her task.
Ian emphasized that Mariah created that family and must now act. His manipulation grew sharper. Mariah struggled but folded under his pressure. Though Ian never spoke the plan aloud, the implication was clear. A kidnapping was coming. The threat surrounding Dominic intensified with every passing moment.
The Young and the Restless Recap: Abby, Devon, and Dominic Enjoy Peace Before Chaos
Back at the café, Abby and Devon celebrated Dominic’s ice skating victory and laughed through sweetness-filled moments. Dominic glowed with excitement. The family felt completely at ease. They had no idea Mariah watched them earlier, torn between guilt and Ian’s dark demands. Their world felt safe, for now.
The Young and the Restless Recap for January 23, 2026 revealed how false that safety truly was. Mariah inched closer to a dangerous choice that could change their lives forever. Stay with Soap Opera Daily for more updates and more recaps.