What is your reaction to the news that Amelia Heinle has been cast as Y&R's Victoria? I'm glad Victoria is returning. She's a vital character. 28% I am not familiar with Heinle, but I will give her a chance. 24% Great news! Heinle will be great in her new Y&R role. 20% I don't feel that Heinle is the right actress for the role. 18% I'm indifferent to Victoria's return. 5% Honestly, this is not the right time for Victoria to return. 3% Other 2% Poll Posted: February 16, 2005

The process of finding a successor to the role previously held by three-time Daytime Emmy winner Heather Tom proved to be extremely challenging for the casting department. Tom exited The Young and the Restless in November 2003 amid concerns of "creative differences" between her and show executives. She promptly signed on to appear on ABC's One Life to Live, where she currently portrays Kelly Cramer.

Originally, a spokesperson for The Young and the Restless stated that the show planned to bring a new actress into the role in January 2004. An initial wave of auditions reportedly failed to find anyone who was a perfect fit for the role. Several other casting calls went out during 2004, but each one ended much the same way.

Heinle most recently appeared on ABC's All My Children, where she portrayed Mia Saunders from July 2001 through June 2004. Heinle's character was relegated to the back burner for much of her time with All My Children. Prior to joining AMC, Heinle enjoyed a three year run as Steffi Brewster on Loving and The City.

Heinle taped her first Y&R scenes on February 16th. She will make her first The Young and the Restless airdate on March 21st.