Braeden agrees, saying, “You better be prepared.” Rikaart notes Braeden is “such an advocate” for the soap opera genre and asks if he’s had people “looking down upon” the work they do.

Braeden’s mind was “blown” all throughout the episode. Not only did he praise Hartley, but he also praised the cast, crew, and production. “I was blown away by the final show!

While out and about, The Young and the Restless ’ Eric Braeden (Victor) happened across a very special person in his life… the actress who plays his onscreen daughter Victoria.

“So it’s a stupid prejudice, based on absolute ignorance,” Braeden adds. Speaking to PEOPLE before Soapy ’s launch, Budig, 52, said she’s experienced the same stigma Braedan has.