Exclusive: How Young & Restless’ Late Katherine Chancellor Plays Into This Week’s Bold & Beautiful Crossover

You could have knocked Kate Linder over with one of the feathers featured on a Forrester Original gown when the longtime Young & Restless star found out she (and alter ego Esther) would be appearing on The Bold and the Beautiful. “It came completely out of the blue,” she told us. “I was thrilled and excited and honored to be given the opportunity!”

Now, if you’re anything like us, when you first heard that Esther would be joining Lauren Fenmore on this cross-country adventure, you scratched your head. Sure, as a fashionista, boutique owner and longtime FOE (Friend of Eric), it makes sense that Lauren Fenmore would attend the big showdown. But Esther? How in the world did that come about?

“Esther has always wanted a Forrester Original gown, because Mrs. Chancellor had several of them,” shares Linder. “Esther would help her get ready for various events, so she’s always wanted one. Knowing Esther’s a huge fan of Forrester, Lauren invites her to go to the showdown.”

Of course, Esther and Katherine weren’t the only ones who had a special relationship. The same could be said of portrayers Linder and the late Jeanne Cooper, which made this opportunity extra special. “I love that they tied this back to Mrs. Chancellor,” Linder admits.

That’s not, however, the only connection at play. “A lot of people forget that Lauren and Esther are actually related,” says Linder. “Because Kevin is Esther’s son-in-law, and he’s also Lauren’s brother-in-law! So for Lauren to do this was really wonderful. Esther is in complete awe!”

Given how many actors from the two soaps cross over, this was an opportunity for Linder to reconnect with familiar faces… including a famous one who happened to also be appearing. “I’ve known Marie Osmond for years,” smiles Linder of the woman who’ll guest as Countess Von Frankfurt. “I actually tap-danced with her on one of the shows she and Donny had.”

Look for Esther and Lauren to arrive in Los Angeles on Wednesday, October 25. Meanwhile, should the erstwhile maid decide to relocate to California, Linder’s game. Perhaps, in fact, she could help launch a new branch of the Crimson Lights franchise? “Esther could serve up coffee to the Forresters and keep up with the gossip,” laughs the actress. “How fun would that be?”