major updates that have left fans buzzing. While

audiences are still reeling from the shocking news of Camryn Grimes’ abrupt exit, there’s now confirmation that Cait Fairbanks, who plays

Tessa Porter, has officially extended her contract with the CBS daytime drama. The timing of the announcement is no coincidence — and soap fans are already speculating about what this means for Genoa City’s future.

A Tale of Two Stars

Camryn Grimes and Cait Fairbanks have been central figures on Y&R for years, especially through their groundbreaking storyline as Mariah Copeland and Tessa Porter. Their on-screen romance blossomed into one of daytime television’s most important LGBTQ+ pairings, affectionately nicknamed “Teriah” by fans.

So, when Grimes confirmed she would be stepping away from the show indefinitely, panic immediately spread through the fanbase. Would this mean the end for “Teriah”? Would Tessa also exit, or would the writers find a way to continue her story solo?

Now, with Fairbanks’ extended contract, it appears Genoa City won’t be saying goodbye to Tessa anytime soon — though the circumstances surrounding her storyline may look very different.

Camryn’s Abrupt Exit

Camryn Grimes’ decision to leave caught many by surprise. Her history with the show is legendary, having first played Cassie Newman before later returning as Mariah. While Grimes’ departure has not been fully explained, insiders suggest she may be pursuing outside projects and personal endeavors.

Her exit leaves a gaping hole not only in Mariah’s ongoing storylines but also in her dynamic with Tessa. Fans have long admired the chemistry between Grimes and Fairbanks, and their journey as wives raising a family had become a central thread in Y&R’s modern storytelling.

With Grimes gone, speculation is rampant that Tessa’s next chapter could involve rebuilding her life without Mariah — or struggling with grief and change as her relationship takes a new turn.

Cait Fairbanks Stays in Genoa City

For Cait Fairbanks, the contract renewal signals the show’s commitment to her character. Since joining in 2017, Fairbanks has portrayed Tessa as a layered and evolving character — from mysterious newcomer to singer-songwriter to devoted partner and mother.

Extending her contract suggests the writers are ready to push Tessa into new storylines independent of Mariah. Viewers might see Tessa leaning on Sharon or Nick, diving deeper into her music career, or perhaps even facing fresh romantic or personal conflicts that test her resilience.

Soap history shows that when one half of a supercouple leaves, the other often gets the spotlight with storylines that honor the past while opening doors to new drama. Fairbanks’ extension ensures fans will get to see where Tessa’s journey leads next.

Fan Reactions: Joy and Sadness

The double news — Grimes’ departure and Fairbanks’ renewal — has sparked emotional responses online.

One fan tweeted:
“Happy Cait is staying, but devastated about Camryn leaving. Teriah was history in the making. It won’t be the same.”

Another added:
“I’m glad the show recognizes Cait’s talent. Tessa deserves more storylines beyond being Mariah’s partner. Maybe this is her chance to shine.”

This mixed reaction highlights just how much the “Teriah” relationship has meant to viewers, not only as a love story but also as representation. Losing Mariah is painful, but keeping Tessa offers hope that the storyline won’t vanish completely.