The world of daytime television has been rocked by devastating news—beloved CBS star Jess Walton, best known for her unforgettable role on The Young and the Restless, has suddenly passed away at the age of 77. The announcement has left fans, colleagues, and the entire soap opera community heartbroken. Walton’s death is not just the loss of an actress; it’s the end of an era for millions who grew up watching her shape one of Genoa City’s most iconic characters.
Jess Walton joined The Young and the Restless decades ago and quickly became a cornerstone of the show. Her portrayal of Jill Abbott turned the character into one of the most dynamic, fiery, and complex figures in soap opera history. From business rivalries to tangled romances, shocking betrayals, and hard-fought triumphs, Walton’s Jill defined what it meant to be bold in the world of daytime drama. Fans adored her ability to bring raw vulnerability and fierce determination to every scene, making Jill Abbott impossible to forget.
The sudden news of Walton’s passing at 77 has stunned audiences who had only recently seen her onscreen. Tributes are pouring in across social media, where fans are sharing favorite storylines and heartfelt memories. Cast members past and present have spoken out, praising Walton’s kindness off-screen and her incredible professionalism in front of the camera. Many describe her as not only a legend but also a mentor, a friend, and a trailblazer who helped shape the soap into the juggernaut it remains today.
Her death also raises questions about the future of Jill Abbott in Genoa City. The Young and the Restless has never shied away from honoring its stars with storylines that reflect real-life losses, and fans are already speculating how the show will address Walton’s passing. Jill’s presence has always been central to major family dynamics—especially among the Abbotts and Chancellor clan—and her absence will leave a void that cannot easily be filled. Whether the writers choose to write Jill out with a powerful tribute storyline or leave her legacy open-ended, there is no doubt Walton’s influence will continue to loom over the series.
In the meantime, emotions in the soap community are running high. Walton’s co-stars have shared touching recollections of time spent together on set. Some have recalled how she would break the tension during long filming days with her humor, while others spoke about the advice she gave younger actors stepping into the daunting world of daytime. For many, she was more than a colleague—she was family.
Fans, too, are processing the heartbreak. Message boards and fan groups are flooded with reflections on Jill Abbott’s legendary battles with Katherine Chancellor, her complex romances, and her relentless ambition. Walton’s ability to keep Jill fresh and unpredictable for decades cemented her as one of the greatest soap actresses of all time. For viewers, saying goodbye feels like losing a piece of their own history, a companion they’ve welcomed into their homes day after day for generations.
The news comes at a time when The Young and the Restless is already teasing dramatic new storylines, and Jess Walton’s passing adds a real-world layer of grief to the upcoming episodes. Many fans are calling for a special tribute episode, much like the show has done in the past for other icons. If that happens, it will surely bring Genoa City to a standstill, allowing every character who crossed paths with Jill to reflect on how she shaped their lives.
Beyond the soap world, Walton’s legacy extends even further. She worked across television and film, but it was her work on Y&R that earned her the unwavering devotion of millions. Her Emmy Award-winning performances set a standard for excellence, and her passion for storytelling inspired countless actors who followed in her footsteps. Even offscreen, her warmth, generosity, and commitment to fans made her a beloved figure in the entertainment community.
The Last Roar? A 2025 Expert Review of the Ferrari 12Cilindri’s American Debut
In the dynamic landscape of 2025, where the automotive industry increasingly pivots towards electrification, a select few bastions of traditional, unadulterated performance continue to defy the current. Among these, Ferrari has consistently held a singular position, and their latest masterpiece, the 12Cilindri, is a profound statement. Having spent over a decade immersing myself in the world of high-performance vehicles, from track-focused monsters to the most opulent grand tourers, few unveilings generate the visceral excitement that a new naturally aspirated V12 Ferrari ignites.
The 12Cilindri isn’t just a new model; it’s a direct successor to the revered 812 Superfast, carrying the immense weight of Maranello’s V12 legacy. For the American market, this car represents more than just exhilarating horsepower; it embodies a philosophical commitment to the pure, mechanical symphony that defines the ultimate driving experience. In a time when horsepower figures are often quoted alongside battery capacities, the 12Cilindri arrives as a defiant, glorious celebration of the internal combustion engine, a true “last hurrah” for many discerning enthusiasts and collectors. I recently had the distinct privilege of pushing this magnificent machine to its limits on various American roads, from winding coastal routes to vast interstates, and I’m here to dissect every facet of what makes this not just a supercar, but an exclusive automotive investment in a rapidly changing world.
Design: A Masterclass in Timeless Aggression
From the moment you lay eyes on the 12Cilindri, its design language speaks volumes. This isn’t just an evolution; it’s a respectful homage to Ferrari’s golden era, seamlessly blended with thoroughly modern aerodynamic efficiency and contemporary aesthetics. My first impression was one of profound elegance coupled with undeniable aggression – a challenging duality that few designers manage to balance so effectively.
The elongated, sculpted hood, a signature of front-engined Ferrari V12s, immediately draws your gaze. It’s a design element that harks back to legends like the 1968 365 GTB/4 Daytona, particularly in its distinctive “black nose” treatment. This striking black panel, regardless of the car’s primary paint, unifies the seven intricate air intake openings, which aren’t merely stylistic flourishes but critical components for cooling and high-performance aerodynamics. The blade-like DRLs integrated into this section are a fantastic modern touch, giving the car a futuristic yet classic light signature.
Moving along the flanks, the absence of excessive ornamentation allows the car’s fundamental proportions to shine. The Berlinetta’s coupe silhouette is an absolute class act, achieving a perfect visual balance despite its considerable length (over 15 feet) and width (over 7 feet). The frameless doors with their soft-closing function exemplify the attention to detail. Twenty-one-inch forged alloy wheels, often featuring bespoke designs and customizable brake caliper colors, perfectly fill the arches, grounding the car with an assertive stance. Owners seeking further personalization will appreciate the extensive bespoke Ferrari customization options, which allow for a truly unique expression of personal taste, enhancing its appeal as a luxury sports coupe.
At the rear, the design continues to impress. The oversized diffuser isn’t just for show; it’s a crucial element in generating downforce, working in conjunction with the active rear spoiler that deploys at speeds above 50 mph. The dual twin tailpipes, a characteristic signature of Ferrari’s 12-cylinder machines, are integrated cleanly, promising an auditory experience that, as we’ll discuss, is nothing short of symphonic. For those who prefer open-air exhilaration, the Spider version, while not available initially in all markets, carries the same design ethos, offering a captivating alternative. This design is one that truly grows on you, revealing new subtleties with every angle and lighting condition, cementing its place as a future icon.
Interior & Technology: Driver-Centric Luxury Redefined
Stepping inside the 12Cilindri is an experience in itself. Ferrari has always excelled at crafting driver-focused cockpits, and this model takes that philosophy to a new level, blending opulent materials with cutting-edge advanced cabin technology. The “dual cockpit” design, inspired by its siblings like the Purosangue and Roma, ensures that both driver and passenger feel intrinsically connected to the experience, a crucial aspect for a true GT car comfort proposition.
Our test car was equipped with the optional carbon fiber sport seats. While undeniably striking and supportive during spirited driving, my ten years of experience suggest that for a vehicle billed as a grand tourer, especially for long-distance touring on American interstates, the standard comfort seats might be the more pragmatic choice. They offer a superior blend of lateral support and cushioning, significantly enhancing the Ferrari driving experience over extended journeys. However, for those prioritizing track days or pure aesthetic appeal, the carbon fiber sport seats are an undeniable statement.
The driver is greeted by a beautifully sculpted steering wheel, laden with controls, including the iconic Manettino dial. Its ergonomics are impeccable, placing critical functions right at your fingertips without feeling cluttered. Behind it, a magnificent 15-inch digital instrument cluster – a first for a GT in Ferrari’s lineup – provides crisp, customizable information. This is complemented by a 10.25-inch central touchscreen, subtly integrated low on the dash, yet perfectly accessible. It handles all infotainment needs, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a must-have for premium automotive technology in 2025. While there aren’t an abundance of physical buttons, which might deter some traditionalists, the haptic feedback controls are intuitive once accustomed to.
A standout feature that elevates the passenger experience luxury car segment is the dedicated passenger screen. This display provides real-time information, including speed, revs, and G-force, transforming the passenger from a mere spectator to an active participant in the thrill. It’s a thoughtful touch that underlines the shared passion for performance.
For auditory pleasure when the engine’s symphony isn’t the primary focus, the optional 1600-watt Burmester sound system with 15 speakers is nothing short of exceptional. While no sound system can truly replicate the raw emotion of a naturally aspirated V12 at full song, this Burmester high-end audio system provides an acoustic experience worthy of the Ferrari badge. Practicality for a grand tourer, while not its primary focus, sees 270 liters of boot space. While modest, it’s sufficient for a weekend getaway for two, proving that even in a high-performance supercar, a degree of usability is maintained. The cabin itself is a masterclass in luxury interior design, with exquisite leather, Alcantara, and carbon fiber trim, all customizable to an unparalleled degree, reinforcing its status as an exclusive automotive investment.
Dynamics & Performance: The Unfiltered V12 Experience
This is where the 12Cilindri truly stakes its claim in the annals of automotive history. At its heart lies the formidable 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine, a masterpiece of engineering and the very essence of Ferrari. In an era dominated by turbocharging and electrification, this unit stands as a defiant monument to the purist’s ideal. With a staggering 820 horsepower at 9,250 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque at 7,250 rpm, this engine is not just powerful; it’s a testament to sustained naturally aspirated V12 performance. The stratospheric 9,500 rpm redline is an absolute marvel, providing an addictive, almost endless surge of power.
Having piloted countless luxury sports cars over the years, the sensation of the 12Cilindri’s acceleration is unique. 0 to 60 mph flashes by in a blistering 2.9 seconds, with 0 to 120 mph achieved in under 7.9 seconds. Top speed is a dizzying 211 mph. On the open road, this car isn’t just fast; it’s ridiculously quick, capable of effortlessly devouring vast stretches of highway. But the numbers, while impressive, don’t tell the whole story.
The secret sauce for this incredible power delivery lies in Ferrari’s unique engine management software, which meticulously maps the throttle response. Rather than unleashing peak torque immediately, the system intelligently flattens the torque curve in lower gears (especially third and fourth), preserving that explosive surge of power for higher RPMs. This allows the driver to fully exploit the engine’s incredible rev range, creating an exotic car driving dynamics experience that builds to a crescendo, rather than peaking too early. It’s a sophisticated approach that ensures maximum driver engagement and control.
Paired with this magnificent engine is an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that is nothing short of telepathic. In my professional opinion, I have rarely sampled shifts as fast, smooth, and utterly seamless as those in the 12Cilindri. There is no discernible pause, no hesitation; the power transfer is instantaneous, making the car feel like a single, cohesive entity. This dual-clutch transmission supercar system is a critical component in delivering the car’s exhilarating performance, whether you’re navigating urban traffic or attacking a challenging canyon road.
The Ferrari engine sound is, quite simply, music. Despite ever-tightening global noise regulations (the 12Cilindri is designed to meet a 72 dB limit), Ferrari has managed to craft an exhaust note that is both refined and utterly intoxicating. It’s a deep, rich baritone at idle, building to an operatic wail as the revs climb, a sound that resonates deep within the soul of any true enthusiast. It’s a stark reminder of what we stand to lose as electrification progresses, making this car even more special.
Handling and chassis dynamics are equally exemplary. The high-performance handling is surprisingly agile for a GT car, thanks in part to a 0.8-inch shorter wheelbase compared to the 812 Superfast. The steering feel is direct, precise, and communicative, allowing the driver to place the car exactly where they intend. The various drive modes, accessible via the Manettino, dramatically alter the car’s character, from a relatively subdued “Wet” mode to the full-bore “Race” and “ESC Off” settings, each perfectly calibrated for different driving conditions.
A particularly ingenious piece of engineering is the advanced rear-wheel steering system. Unlike conventional all-wheel steering where both rear wheels turn in sync, the 12Cilindri’s system allows the rear wheels to turn independently. For example, when cornering right, only the left rear wheel will counter-steer, while the right wheel remains straight, anticipating the next turn. This unique approach significantly enhances agility in tight corners and improves stability during high-speed lane changes, offering a level of precision that truly sets it apart. Combine this with active aerodynamics and sophisticated magnetorheological dampers, and you have a car that feels both supremely composed and incredibly playful. While the ride on concrete expressways can be firm, it’s never jarring, delivering that expected supercar tautness without sacrificing the ultimate touring capabilities. This is a car you can genuinely play with joyfully all day.
Safety & Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Modern Protection for a Traditional Heart
The notion of ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) in a Ferrari might have seemed incongruous a decade ago, but in 2025, it’s a necessary integration, even for Maranello’s purest creations. The 12Cilindri embraces modern safety technology, but critically, it does so in a way that supports, rather than detracts from, the pure driving experience.
Standard features include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assist. In my experience, these Ferrari ADAS features are tuned with a lightness of touch appropriate for a performance vehicle. Unlike systems in more mainstream cars that can feel overly intrusive, the 12Cilindri’s ACC maintains its distance smoothly, and the Lane Keeping Assist offers gentle nudges rather than aggressive steering interventions. It feels more like a vigilant co-pilot than a nanny, ensuring that as a driver, you remain in command while still benefiting from an added layer of security, especially during longer highway stretches. A 360-degree surround-view camera system is also standard, proving invaluable when maneuvering this wide supercar in tight parking scenarios.
Perhaps one of the most practical supercar safety technology enhancements for luxury vehicle owners is the nose lift system. With the press of a button on the touchscreen, the front axle can be raised, providing precious clearance for navigating steep driveways, speed bumps, or uneven terrain. While it doesn’t eliminate the need for caution, it’s a feature that significantly reduces the stress of everyday driving for luxury car owners in urban environments. This blend of traditional Ferrari ethos with intelligent, non-intrusive modern safety features makes the 12Cilindri remarkably livable, even with its phenomenal performance capabilities.
Verdict: An Icon for the Ages
The 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri is more than just a car; it’s a profound statement, a magnificent testament to a legacy, and quite possibly, one of the last purely naturally aspirated V12 grand tourers we will see from Maranello. It marries breathtaking design with an intoxicating, high-revving engine, cutting-edge technology, and chassis dynamics that are both engaging and refined.
In the rapidly evolving luxury automotive market trends of 2025, the 12Cilindri stands out as an anomaly, a defiant celebration of raw, unadulterated passion. It caters to a discerning clientele – collectors, connoisseurs, and enthusiasts alike – who seek not just performance, but an exclusive automotive investment that transcends mere transportation. It’s for those who understand and appreciate the dwindling art of the high-revving V12, the visceral thrill that only such an engine can deliver.
While its price point firmly places it in the upper echelons of luxury car pricing, its value proposition goes beyond monetary figures. This is a Ferrari collector’s item in the making, a future classic whose significance will only grow as the automotive world continues its inexorable march towards electrification. It encapsulates everything that has made Ferrari a legend, distilled into a single, sensational package. The 12Cilindri isn’t just a replacement for the 812 Superfast; it’s a spiritual successor to every V12 Ferrari that came before it, an ultimate grand tourer for the modern age, perfected for the American road.
Experience the Legend
As the automotive landscape shifts and evolves, the Ferrari 12Cilindri stands as a poignant and powerful testament to unparalleled engineering, timeless design, and an unyielding passion for the purest form of driving. If you’re ready to experience the pinnacle of naturally aspirated performance and discover if this legendary GT belongs in your curated collection, we invite you to connect with your authorized Ferrari dealer to explore bespoke customization options and embark on an unforgettable journey. The symphony awaits.