Do you recall Shemar Moore’s unforgettable role as Malcolm Winters on The Young and the Restless? Although he departed Genoa City in 2005, the actor recently took a trip down memory lane, reflecting on his early days with the CBS soap. He shared heartfelt memories of the remarkable individual who played a pivotal role in launching his career. Keep reading to get all the details!
Shemar Remembers Words of Wisdom
Shemar Moore, a *The Young and the Restless* alum, recently appeared on *The Talk* to reflect on his soap opera journey. “April 6, 1994, I got hired as Malcolm Winters on the CBS soap,” he shared, recalling the excitement of landing the role and picturing himself on TV. However, that excitement quickly gave way to anxiety. “I freaked out, thinking, ‘Oh my God, I’m not gonna be good enough,’” Moore admitted, reflecting on the overwhelming pressure he felt in those early days.
As funny as it sounds, Shemar feared he’d be packing his bags and shown the door in no time. The imposter syndrome hit him hard. But that’s when the legendary Kristoff St. John, who portrayed his on-screen brother Neil Winters, stepped in like a true hero. Kristoff gave Shemar a pep talk that left a lasting impact.
Seeing his fear, Kristoff embraced him and offered words of encouragement: “You’re scared. You’re nervous. You’re green. But you’ve got heart, and you’ve got raw talent.” Those words resonated deeply, helping Moore find the confidence to own his role and thrive in the soap opera world.
What started as a nerve-wracking experience soon became the launchpad for an incredible career. Moore didn’t just survive—he soared, eventually winning a Daytime Emmy and transitioning to prime-time stardom with Criminal Minds. Now, he’s leading the hit show SWAT, which is entering its final season. Quite the transformation, right?
Tragically, Kristoff St. John passed away in 2019 at the age of 52, but his legacy—and the impact he had on Shemar—remains stronger than ever.
Kristoff St. John left behind an unforgettable legacy. Starting as a child actor, he appeared in classics like Happy Days and The Cosby Show. He made an even greater mark with his role in Generations before becoming a Y&R fan-favorite in 1991 as Neil Winters.
Though Kristoff is no longer with us, the wisdom and encouragement he shared continue to inspire Shemar on his journey to success. Their bond remains a powerful reminder of mentorship and friendship in the entertainment world.
Stay tuned for more updates on The Young and the Restless stars. What are your thoughts on the incredible connection between Shemar and Kristoff? Share your views in the comments!