Melody Thomas Scott Debuted a Bold New Look on a Recent Episode of 'Y&R'

A recent episode of The Young and the Restless saw a fan-favorite character, Nikki Newman (Melody Thomas Scott), debut a brand new look — and some fans still don't know what to make of the sensation. 

Instead of her signature, honey blonde locks, Nikki has been wearing a stylish wig for the past few episodes. So, is the bold look here to stay, or is it temporary? Why is Nikki wearing a wig? 

Just like any other cast member of The Young and the Restless, actress Melody Thomas Scott was asked to do her hair and makeup as part of the new regulations aimed at preventing the further spread of COVID-19.

According to Soap Dirt, some rapid changes have been taking place over at the show. 

As the outlet reveals, male stars are less likely to enter the set with a full face of makeup in the near future, while their attires might look a bit more scruffy than usual. 

Actresses slightly less inclined to master the art of professional makeup and hair might debut some unexpected looks — hopefully, none as drastic as Nikki's wig — in the next episodes. 

What's more, scenes involving intimacy are now subject to strict regulations. Actors will be asked to perform scenes that feature hugging, kissing, or anything of the sort, with the help of their real-life partners. 

Likewise, stars and crew members alike will be expected to adhere to social distancing rules and keep six feet apart. The new regulations might result in some hitherto unforeseen-before sights, as the way the cast members move around each other on set is about to undergo a complete transformation. 

As a recent article by Fortune reveals, the creators behind The Bold and the Beautiful have implemented similar rules to protect the cast and crew. 

According to the outlet, the actors working on the show will now be required to invite their partners to work as a stand-in for kissing scenes. Alternatively, they will be offered the option of using a mannequin for the takes that involve closure. 

Every employee will have to undergo temperature checks before entering the studio. They will also be provided face masks, hand sanitisers, and a small bin for scripts.

"We feel almost like television pioneers all these years later because we’re the first ones out, blazing new ways of producing the shows with the current safety standards, and we're getting the job done. It's very exciting," Bradley Bell, the executive producer of The Bold and the Beautiful, told Fortune. 

The best way to prevent contracting or spreading the coronavirus is with thorough hand washing and social distancing. If you feel you may be experiencing symptoms of the coronavirus, which include persistent cough (usually dry), fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue, please call your doctor before going to get tested. For comprehensive resources and updates, visit the CDC website. If you are experiencing anxiety about the virus, seek out mental health support from your provider or visit NAMI.org.