Scott Clifton, who has captivated audiences for over a decade as William “Liam” Spencer III on The Bold and the Beautiful, revealed in a recent interview that his beloved character was originally scripted to die. Fans of the iconic CBS daytime drama can breathe a sigh of relief: Liam survived, thanks to a last-minute rewrite by series head writer and executive producer Bradley Bell.

Clifton, 40, opened up to Soap Opera Digest about the dramatic near-death storyline. “I really was supposed to kick the old soap opera bucket,” he admitted, reflecting on the suspense-filled plot that had both fans and actors on edge.

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The Original Plan: A Fatal Brain Tumor

Earlier this year, Bell informed Clifton that the character had been “written into a corner.” The decision was to give Liam an inoperable brain tumor, which would have led to a poignant exit from the series. Clifton recalled:

“He was a total prince about it. He was like, ‘I love working with you and you’re an asset to the show, but I’ve figured out what I want to do with Liam.’”

Clifton had worried for years that his character’s exit might be imminent, making Bell’s honesty especially meaningful.

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How Liam Spencer Survived

Despite the original storyline, the writers devised a complex plan to keep Liam alive. Dr. Grace Buckingham (Cassandra Creech) faked Liam’s brain scan to extort his father, Bill Spencer (Don Diamont), and the scheme ultimately led to experimental treatment that saved him.

“I was so thrilled to be employed again, but I was kind of going, ‘How on earth are you gonna pull this off?’” Clifton said. “I mean, yes, it’s a soap opera, but you have established beyond any question that this dude is dying!”

Bell’s rewrite ultimately provided a high-stakes, emotionally charged storyline while preserving the fan-favorite character. Clifton described the outcome as “the best of both worlds,” allowing him to continue portraying Liam and contributing to new storylines.

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Clifton’s Career and Legacy on the Soap

Clifton joined The Bold and the Beautiful in 2010, quickly establishing himself as a core cast member. Over the years, he has earned multiple Daytime Emmy Awards, including:

• Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (2017)
• Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (2013)
• Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series (2011)

He is the first male actor to win all three Emmy categories, cementing his legacy in daytime television.

Clifton expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue portraying Liam:

“I’m pretty damn grateful. I’m grateful to Brad and grateful to the show and grateful to get to stick around and hopefully help him tell some more great stories.”

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Fans Can Catch Liam’s Ongoing Adventures

Fans can continue following Liam Spencer and the rest of the Bold and the Beautiful cast on CBS, airing weekdays (check local listings). The series remains a staple of daytime drama, blending romance, family intrigue, and suspense.