What happened on The Young and the Restless today? Recap for December 23, 2025

The Young and the Restless episode aired on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, gave viewers a stressful mix of love, backstabbing, and danger. From a surprising find at Cane’s office to a scary deal involving a dangerous kidnapper, balanced emotional fallout with high-stakes maneuvering that kept multiple storylines colliding.

While one couple moved closer to being happy, another faced a problem that could change everything. Meanwhile, Nick took control of a dangerous situation, set on protecting his family no matter what.

The episode focused on trust, manipulation, and how fast weak friendships can break apart.

As secrets were exposed and strong plans were made, Genoa City residents found themselves forced to pick sides.

Whether led by love, worry, or wanting power, many characters made moves that promised long-lasting results going into the holiday time.

The Young and the Restless recap for the episode aired on Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Noah regains consciousness and the search for Sienna intensifies

After waking up in the park, Noah realized he had been hit before Sienna was kidnapped. Still shaking, he immediately called Nick and Sharon to tell them the little bit he remembered, making it clear that he did not leave Sienna alone on purpose.

The news brought up hard questions about what truly happened that night.

Noah soon met Nick and Sharon at Crimson Lights, hoping to feel better. Instead, fights started when Nick suggested that Sienna might have knocked Noah out and left with Matt because she wanted to.

The blame really hurt Noah, who said for sure Sienna would never lie to him. Sharon quickly stood up for her son, warning Nick to be more careful with what he thinks.

Matt’s taunts and Nick’s dangerous proposal

The problem got worse when Matt called Noah from a motel and made fun of him about what happened to Sienna. Noah begged Matt to let Sienna go and offered to take her place, but Matt only liked the power he had. Sharon angrily shouted threats at Matt over the phone before he quickly hung up.

After a loud fight between Noah and Nick, Nick was able to get the talk back on track. He insisted they needed to force Matt’s hand immediately if they wanted to keep Sienna safe.

Set on taking charge, Nick called Matt back and said he had a deal to give, starting a dangerous talk that could either save Sienna or make things much worse.

Lily, Traci, and a push toward happiness

At Society, Lily had a quiet meal with Traci, who softly told her to be happy with Cane. Traci reminded Lily that letting herself enjoy would help not only her but also the two children. Lily seemed to listen, even though some worries still stayed under the surface.

Later, Traci met with Diane at the Abbott mansion. Diane nervously waited for news from Michael, hoping he had found something helpful to assist the family.

As Diane thought about finally feeling welcome by the Abbotts, Traci suggested that Diane might be just the right kind of fighter the family needed. The time ended with a real hug that made their new friendship stronger.

Phyllis makes her move and Lily walks in on the truth

Phyllis arrived at Cane’s office with a puzzle cube as a Christmas gift and an unexpected confession. She admitted she regretted walking away from Cane and claimed she was ready to start over, presenting herself humbly and with renewed determination.

Cane suspected Phyllis’ earlier plans had failed due to Victor double-crossing her. Phyllis confirmed she was ready to team up again and soon revealed her bold idea: stealing the AI program back from Victor.

She envisioned taking over Newman Enterprises together, promising money, power, and revenge.

As Phyllis teased Cane by calling him “Aristotle” and urging him to embrace his ambition, the tension turned intimate. Phyllis leaned over Cane as he sat in his chair, and the two shared a kiss.

At that exact moment, Lily appeared in the doorway and witnessed the betrayal firsthand.

The episode closed with Lily stunned and heartbroken, as Phyllis once again became an obstacle to Lily and Cane’s fragile future. The fallout promised to be explosive in the days ahead.

Catch The Young and the Restless on CBS and Paramount Plus.