by Dan J Kroll

Posted Monday, November 08, 2004 1:54:48 AM

If you blinked your eyes, you may have missed Michael Damian's (Danny Romalotti) gig on The Young and the Restless. The show has confirmed that the actor has been written out.

In a brief statement on his official web site, Damian stated that "[Y&R co-head writer] Jack Smith cannot find a storyline for Danny."

Damian returned to The Young and the Restless in November 2003. But since then, the actor has seen little on-air time. The lack of material for Damian seemingly flies in the face of the statement the show made when the actor's return was announced.

How do you feel about Y&R writing out Danny? It's fine. Obviously there wasn't much of a need for Danny. 31% I'm so upset. Danny could have so much purpose on Y&R. 28% I'm puzzled why he was brought back if he wouldn't be seen. 23% Oh wow. I really thought that he had already been ditched. 11% I don't really feel one way or another about his exit. 7% Other 1% Poll Posted: November 8, 2004

"We're really excited to have Michael return to the show," said Executive Producer David Shaughnessy. "He was enormously popular with viewers when he previously portrayed Danny Romalotti from 1980-1998 and for one episode in September 2002."

And while fans are upset that Damian has not been seen on-screen in months, it should be noted that Y&R execs only brought Damian back on a recurring basis and the length of time he'd be seen on the show was never disclosed.

"We are going to see how it goes and how the audience responds," Damian said of his return in November 2003.

A show spokesperson declined to comment on Damian's status with the show, explaining that it is not policy to do so. However, insiders say that Damian has already had his final airdate and the role of Danny will not be recast.