Few names in daytime television are as instantly recognizable as Daniel Goddard, especially among fans of The Young and the Restless. But in a recent, candid interview, Goddard dropped a bombshell: after over a decade of playing beloved characters like Cane Ashby and his twin Caleb Atkinson, he now feels his time on the show “amounted to nothing.” This startling confession, made public just days ago, has sent shockwaves through the soap opera community and sparked conversations about the realities of long-term television stardom.
Goddard’s journey with The Young and the Restless began in 2007 and lasted until 2019, when his character was written off under dramatic circumstances. Despite his popularity and the deep connection viewers developed with Cane Ashby—known for his turbulent relationship with Lily Winters and their shared children—the actor revealed that returning to the industry after a hiatus felt like starting from scratch. “I was back to auditioning,” he said, “and in a bizarre way, those 12 years or so on Y&R amounted to nothing because I had to fight for every new role all over again.”
From Genoa City to Port Charles: A New Chapter
After stepping away from acting to focus on entrepreneurial ventures, Goddard recently made a triumphant return to daytime TV, this time as Professor Henry Dalton on General Hospital. His debut as the enigmatic, possibly sinister professor at Port Charles University began in April 2025, and fans have already noted the stark differences between his old and new roles.
Goddard has spoken openly about the challenges of returning to acting after years away. He admitted to facing hesitation and fear—fear of not being good enough, fear of failing, and fear of letting down his loyal fanbase. Yet, he also described the audition process as a moment of awakening, reigniting his passion for the craft.
On General Hospital, Goddard finds himself working alongside familiar faces from his Y&R days, including Genie Francis, Steve Burton, and Tristan Rogers. This sense of familiarity has made his transition smoother, but he also acknowledges the surreal feeling of coming full circle in his career.
The Soap Opera Evolution: Control, Process, and Letting Go
One of the most striking differences Goddard highlights between his time on The Young and the Restless and General Hospital is the level of control and information he receives. On Y&R, actors are given complete scripts well in advance, allowing them to understand their characters’ arcs and how others perceive them. In contrast, on General Hospital, he only receives the sections relevant to his character, mirroring the unpredictability of real life.
Goddard admits this shift has changed his approach. “I wanted to control the process, but in real life, you wouldn’t know who is talking about you behind your back or what was coming. It’s taught me to let go. Now, I’m trusting the process and allowing it to play out,” he said. This new mindset has not only helped him adapt but also rediscover the joy of acting.
Despite his frustrations with how Y&R handled his character’s exit—Cane Ashby was written into a corner with lackluster storylines toward the end—Goddard remains grateful to his fans and the daytime community. He credits them for keeping his passion alive and for the opportunities that continue to come his way.
The Emotional Toll and Triumph of a Soap Star
Goddard’s story is more than just a tale of career ups and downs. It’s a reflection on the emotional investment actors make in their roles and the industry’s fickle nature. His admission that his years on The Young and the Restless “amounted to nothing” in terms of career leverage is both honest and relatable, especially for those who have faced similar struggles after long-term roles.
Yet, his return to the spotlight as Professor Henry Dalton proves that resilience pays off. Fans are eager to see how his mysterious new character will develop, especially as hints of WSB (World Security Bureau) drama and Anna Devane’s suspicions swirl around him. Goddard’s journey reminds us that even when it feels like everything has amounted to nothing, new beginnings are always possible.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Daniel Goddard?
As Goddard continues to settle into his role on General Hospital, he remains open to whatever the future holds. His story serves as an inspiration for actors and fans alike, showing that setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. The soap opera world is watching closely as Professor Henry Dalton’s secrets unfold, and Goddard’s performance is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his work, Goddard’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of trusting the process—even when it feels like your past efforts have amounted to nothing.
Want to stay updated on Daniel Goddard’s latest adventures and see how his story unfolds? Tune in to General Hospital and join the conversation on social media!