'Young and the Restless' News: Michael Muhney Explains Being Fired

Michael Muhney gave an exclusive interview to Huffington Post Canada TV about being fired from The Young and the Restless.

Muhney announced on Twitter Tuesday that he had been fired from the CBS soap opera. He played Adam Newman since 2009 and signed a four year contract in April. He told reporter Nelson Branco that he was shocked after being told of his release.

"Everyone knows I always have something to say. I'm a chatterbox, laugh all you want, but I was rendered speechless for about five minutes. I didn't utter a word. There was truly a moment when I thought I was having a very vivid, surreal dream and I couldn't wake up so I could tell people I was having an awful dream about "Y&R" letting me go," he said.

Muhney explained that the show desired to give the character of Adam a three to six month break.  He will then return with a new actor in the role. The character will not be killed off. Muhney also addressed speculation that his co-star Eric Braden may have been behind his firing. The two men have butted heads on occasion. He opted to take the high road.

"If there were disagreements in the past with Eric, for me, it has to be history," he said.

He was also humbled by the outpouring of support on social media. Fans have started petitions in order to have execs change their minds.

"The fan love and loyalty means so much to me, and the love and friendship of my co-workers. I feel like I'm leaving a very, very dear friend and mentor in Peter Bergman. Also, I'm leaving behind Sharon Case and Melissa Claire Egan, two phenomenal co-stars and friends," he said.