Lachlan Buchanan takes over as Y&R's new Kyle Abbott

Lachlan Buchanan takes over as Y&R's new Kyle Abbott

Y&R's Jack has got a lot on his plate these days, but it's about to get a lot fuller because his son is headed back to Genoa City -- with a totally different face.

Better throw some shrimp on the barbie, because Australian actor Lachlan Buchanan -- best known from the hit Down Under soap opera Home and Away -- has been cast as The Young and the Restless' new Kyle Abbott.

Though originally from Queensland, the actor will be using an American accent once he steps into the role of Jack's son on February 25.

"So excited start my new adventure with the team at #theyoungandtherestless," Buchanan wrote on Instagram. "Let the silliness begin!"

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As fans may recall, Kyle (previously portrayed by Blake Hood and then Hartley Sawyer) disappeared from the screen in early 2014 for a skiing trip and has been mentioned a few times -- though not seen -- by his Genoa City family.

In addition to Home and Away, the actor has appeared on television shows like Pretty Little Liars, Working Class, Blue Water High, and No Ordinary Family.

Buzz about the possibility that Kyle was being recast first surfaced in December 2014 when Y&R issued a casting call for the role of "Matt Wilkins." Kyle's return seems to be the first of some major changes the show's new head writer, Charles Pratt Jr., promised would be coming to Y&R this year.

What do you think about Kyle Abbott returning to Genoa City? Are you happy that Lachlan Buchanan has been cast in the role, or would you rather have seen someone else play Jack's son? Share your thoughts in our Comments section below, on our message boards, or by submitting Feedback..

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