Thom Bierdz played Phillip Chancellor III on The Young and the Restless from 1986-1989.
Weeks after leaving the show to pursue a movie career, his mother was killed by his mentally ill, younger brother Troy. Thom's future was instantly crushed with overwhelming questions, and a frustrating lack of answers. For the next 15 years he researched and chronicled the account, and held nothing back as he penned an honest and emotional book uncovering profound spiritual insights. During that time he found solace as he returned to the canvas painting, with the same soulful vulnerability we had witnessed on screen. With a desire to help others, Thom donated time painting live to bring both awareness and much needed funds to charities that are close to his heart. He is humbled and proud that to date his art donations has raised over $100,000 for these important causes.

Coming full circle, Thom's return to The Young and the Restless is truly a deep and personal victory over the profound adversity he has faced both privately and publicly. When he first appeared on the show in 1986, he was told by his management to hide his sexuality. They said to "come out" would ruin his career and any chances of fulfilling his dreams. Today as an out gay man, Thom's personal mission and message for everyone is to live their most authentic life where transformational power lies in being true to who we are. It is the greatest gift we can give to ourselves and to one another.