<P> The character is described as an integral part of the soap opera . Both Dickson and Walton have characterized her as "manipulative". Walton, who classes her as a "savvy businesswoman", has opined she is similar to Gone with the Wind character Scarlett O'Hara . Critics have described her as both vindictive and a vixen . John Goudas of The Miami News said that the show "flourishes when her character takes center stage", while Nekeeta Borden of Zap2it noted that Jill has always craved a sense of belonging despite her personality . Walton's portrayal has been met with acclaim, for which she has won two Daytime Emmy Awards . </P> <P> Dickson debuted as the character within the first few episodes of the series . Footage of Dickson as Jill appears in the film Taxi Driver . In May 1980, Dickson left the role, with Bond Gideon briefly taking over before Adair portrayed the character for an additional three years, from 1980 to 1983 . Dickson returned to the role in 1983 . Melinda Fee served a temporary recast also in 1984, and Adair briefly reprised the role in 1986 as a fill - in for Dickson . In 1987, when asked if she would ever leave the character of Jill again, Dickson stated: "I'm planning to branch out, maybe even a miniseries . But (that) only means shooting here at night to fill in . I can't give up Jill . I'm having too much fun with her . Besides, it's all so easy ." However, Dickson was later replaced by Walton, with her final appearance as Jill on June 18, 1987 . Walton took over shortly after on June 22, 1987 . </P> <P> In March 2009, speculation arose that Walton had taken a medical leave; however, Nelson Branco of TV Guide Canada reported that she had been asked to accept a salary cut and had decided to leave . The soap opera issued a casting call for Jill, describing her as "late' 50s, Caucasian, female . This woman is a smart and confident CEO of a successful company . She is a mother and grandmother who wants what is best for her family ." However, soon after, Walton was able to sign a new contract to continue her portrayal of Jill . She later clarified her departure as having to do with "family and this economy". She stated: "I felt so bad that so many people have lost their jobs, that, all of a sudden, I thought:' This is really silly . I have a wonderful job and I really think I owe it to myself and my family to continue on ."' In February 2012, Walton signed a new contract with the soap opera, which would continue her portrayal of the role for an unspecified amount of time . The actress was then announced to be taking a leave of absence beginning that April, slated to last six months . She made her return on November 2, 2012 . After her return, Walton confirmed in an interview with Soap Opera Digest that she had voluntarily dropped to recurring status to allow for more time with her family . </P> <P> Global BC describes Jill as "driven and ambitious". Lilana Novakovich of the Toronto Star stated she was "one mean lady", and later noted her to be manipulative . Dickson was "delighted" when viewers compared Jill to Alexis Colby (Joan Collins) on the television series Dynasty, and believed that Jill could give "lessons in rottenness" to Alexis . While Jill, still portrayed by Dickson, was in a middle of a custody battle for her son, John Goudas of The Miami News said: "Jill is hot again this winter . In a court battling for her son she never gave a darn about, quixotic Jill Foster Abbott gives The Young and the Restless a few heady jolts ." Additionally, he described Jill as a "two - timing, self - absorbed, vindictive little witch" who fans always sympathize with . In 1992, Donna Gable of USA Today described Jill as volatile . </P>

Where has jill been on young and the restless