On November 20, 2023, Michelle Stafford made a memorable birthday tribute to her friend and fellow actor Jason Thompson, known for his role as Billy Abbott on the long-running soap opera The Young and the Restless. Instead of the typical heartfelt messages, Stafford took a nostalgic route by sharing clips from Thompson’s early career in a series of Gap commercials that date back to the late 1990s.
Throwback to the ’90s
Stafford stumbled upon these vintage ads online and decided to share them with fans, creating a wave of nostalgia. The first clip featured a youthful Thompson singing a line from Madonna’s 1984 hit “Dress You Up” in a commercial titled “Everybody in Vests.” The second clip showcased him performing Donovan’s 1967 classic “Mellow Yellow” in a different ad called “Everybody in Cords.” Both snippets highlighted not only Thompson’s boyish charm but also his impressive vocal skills.
In her Instagram post, Stafford enthusiastically wrote, “Yes yes!!!! Say Happy Birthday to @myjasonthompson (these came up in my feed a couple months ago!! Been waiting to post!!)” This sentiment resonated with many, as fans and colleagues reacted to the throwback moments. Thompson himself joined the conversation, humorously commenting, “Haha!! They call me ‘Old Yeller.’ Thank you, Stafford!! And everyone else here for the bday wishes!!”
Community Response and Celebration
The birthday post received considerable attention across the soap opera community, with reactions pouring in from various stars associated with The Young and the Restless and General Hospital. Notable responses included a simple “Happy birthday” from Tracey E. Bregman and surprise from Finola Hughes, who expressed that she had no idea Thompson could sing. Actor Marc Anthony Samuel, known for his role in “Hot Guys with Guns,” also shared his own experience, mentioning that he once filmed a Gap commercial as well.
Thompson’s birthday celebration not only highlighted his enduring presence in the entertainment industry but also underscored the strong camaraderie among soap opera actors. From his early beginnings in commercials to becoming a beloved figure in daytime television, Thompson’s journey reflects the evolution of an artist who has captured the hearts of many.
As fans recall these early moments of Thompson’s career, it serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of both nostalgia and friendship in the world of soap operas. Stafford’s thoughtful tribute has not only celebrated a milestone but has also reignited fond memories for audiences who have followed Thompson’s career over the years.
