It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marla Adams, best known for her iconic role as Dina Abbott Mergeron on the long-running soap opera, The Young and the Restless. She left us on Thursday, April 25 in Los Angeles at the age of 85. While we do not know the cause of her death, one thing is for certain – her impact on the show and the hearts of fans will never be forgotten.
Marla Adams made an indelible mark on The Young and the Restless, captivating audiences with her remarkable performance as the complex and strong-willed Dina Mergeron. Josh Griffith, the executive producer and head writer for the show, expressed his deepest sympathies to Marla’s family and acknowledged her incredible talent, saying, “both Marla and Dina made an unforgettable mark on Y&R.”
But Marla’s journey to stardom began long before her role on The Young and the Restless. She started her career by participating in pageants and even held titles such as Miss Ocean City and Miss Cape May. Her dedication and talent eventually led her to the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she honed her acting skills.
Throughout her illustrious career, Marla Adams graced both the small and big screens with her presence. She played Belle Clemens on The Secret Storm and charmed audiences with her appearances on beloved shows like The Golden Girls, Hart to Hart, and The Love Boat. Adams also left her mark in the soap opera world with recurring roles in The Bold and the Beautiful, Days of Our Lives, Generations, and Capitol.
Marla Adams’s exceptional work on The Young and the Restless did not go unnoticed. In 2021, she was honored with a Daytime Emmy Award, a testament to her talent and unwavering commitment to her craft.
But Marla Adams will be remembered not only for her contributions to the entertainment industry, but also for her love and devotion to her family. She leaves behind her daughter, Pam Oates; her son, Gunnar Garat; her grandchildren, Gefjon and Stone; and her great-grandson, Remi.
Though Marla Adams is no longer with us, her legacy will continue to live on through her incredible body of work and the impact she made on fans around the world. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
