The Young and the Restless Recap for May 12, 2025, centers on secrets, betrayals, and emotional blowups in Genoa City. Phyllis plots against Billy, Mariah pulls away from Tessa, and Claire tries to fix things with Victor. Meanwhile, Daniel steps up as a friend when emotions run high and tears fall.
Tessa Faces the Truth About Mariah
The Young and the Restless recap for Monday, May 12, kicks off with rising tension between Tessa and Mariah. In the park, Tessa finally confronts Mariah about her cold behavior. Mariah admits she’s been carrying guilt over Ian Ward’s return to town. She feels like she should’ve seen through him long ago.
Tessa quickly jumps to her own blame. She wonders if Mariah resents her for encouraging that second chance with Ian. Trying to make things right, Tessa suggests they go to therapy together. She pleads for a way forward, desperate to fix what’s broken.
However, Mariah insists the problem isn’t Tessa at all. She hints that the real issue lies within herself. Before Tessa can press for answers, Mariah simply says she’s sorry—and runs away, leaving Tessa heartbroken.
The Young and the Restless Recap: Phyllis Wants Power—Not Pity
At Crimson Lights, Phyllis shares big news with Daniel. She’s officially leaving Abbott Communications in the past. She vents about being replaced by Sally Spectra, who she believes is far from qualified.
Phyllis swears she won’t crawl back to Billy Abbott. Instead, she pitches the idea of starting something new—something powerful—with Daniel. She paints a vision of building a new empire together. Daniel sees her fire but reminds her that inspiration, not revenge, should lead the way.
He’s open to the idea if it’s something that excites him too. Phyllis nods with a smirk. She’s confident she’ll come up with a winning plan. Later, Daniel finds Tessa alone in the park, emotionally wrecked. She’s still reeling from Mariah’s reaction. Without saying much, she collapses into Daniel’s arms, crying as he comforts her.
Claire Pushes for Victor’s Approval
Meanwhile, Claire tries to convince Kyle that they should embrace Victor Newman more openly. She wants to show him how happy they are through casual family moments—like birthdays or picnics with Harrison.
Kyle remains skeptical. He doesn’t think bonding over sandwiches will win Victor’s heart. Claire becomes frustrated. She deeply admires Victor’s journey from an orphanage to creating a powerful family empire. She’s honored to be part of the Newman legacy.
She also brings up Nikki’s suggestion—to take things slow until Victor’s fully on board. Kyle isn’t thrilled about that advice either. Still, he assures Claire he’ll stand by her side, no matter what.
The Young and the Restless Recap: Billy’s Game Turns Dangerous
At Society, Billy updates Sally on his heated exchange with Victor. He reveals that Victor threw out threats and clearly fears Aristotle Dumas. That gives Billy an idea. Instead of getting directly involved, Billy plans to pit Victor and Dumas against each other. He wants to sit back, watch the chaos, and let them destroy each other. Sally questions his motives and reminds him that Dumas is just as dangerous.
Billy insists he’s done trying to take back Chancellor. For now, he just wants to let his rivals clash. Although wary, Sally agrees to support him—and seals it with a kiss.
Phyllis Eavesdrops and Plots Her Move
Just around the corner, Phyllis lurks unseen. She catches every word of Billy’s risky strategy. Now holding valuable information, Phyllis starts plotting her next move. She sees an opening to approach Victor. Trading intel for power? That’s Phyllis’ style. A new negotiation could be coming fast.
Monday’s The Young and the Restless Recap reveals how secrets, schemes, and shifting alliances dominate Genoa City. With Phyllis planning a bold move, Billy stoking a dangerous fire, and Mariah facing emotional fallout, the drama is only heating up. Don’t miss what’s next—stay locked in to Soap Opera Daily for all your The Young and the Restless Recap updates. See you soon!
