Tom Ligon Dies: The Young and the Restless Star Was 85
Veteran stage and screen actor Tom Ligon, best known to daytime television audiences for his memorable role as Lucas Prentiss on The Young and the Restless, has died at the age of 85. His passing was confirmed by SAG-AFTRA New York Local, which paid tribute to the longtime actor and union member. A cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed.
Ligon became a familiar face to soap opera fans after portraying Lucas Prentiss on The Young and the Restless from 1978 to 1982. His character played a central role in one of the show’s most memorable early storylines, involving the Prentiss brothers and the Brooks sisters, helping establish the CBS drama as one of daytime television’s biggest successes.
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Tom Ligon built a distinguished career that spanned more than six decades. Before becoming a soap opera favorite, he earned recognition on stage, including performances on Broadway and Off-Broadway. His television résumé extended well beyond The Young and the Restless, with appearances on Santa Barbara, All My Children, Another World, and Loving.
Outside the world of daytime television, Ligon appeared in several notable films, including Paint Your Wagon (1969) and Bang the Drum Slowly (1973). His prime-time television credits included guest roles on popular series such as Charlie’s Angels, Starsky & Hutch, Dallas, Law & Order, and HBO’s prison drama Oz, where he portrayed Alvin Yood.
Beyond acting, Ligon was deeply involved with SAG-AFTRA, serving the organization for decades in several leadership positions. He was recognized not only for his artistic contributions but also for his dedication to supporting fellow performers and advocating for actors’ rights throughout his career.
Tributes from colleagues and fans have begun pouring in across social media, with many remembering Ligon for his professionalism, warmth, and lasting impact on daytime television. His portrayal of Lucas Prentiss remains one of the defining performances from the early years of The Young and the Restless.
Tom Ligon is survived by countless admirers whose lives were touched by his work on stage and screen. His legacy will continue to live on through the many memorable performances he delivered during a remarkable career that spanned film, television, and theater.
