Big changes could be ahead for The Bold and the Beautiful, as Matthew Atkinson,

who plays Thomas Forrester, has stepped away from the show temporarily. His wife recently gave birth,

and he’s taking a break to focus on his growing family. But what does this mean for Thomas’s storyline? Will the show replace him with another actor, or will they wait for his return?

Thomas is a crucial part of the ongoing drama at Forrester Creations. With Ridge and Eric locked in a battle to regain control from Hope and Carter, Thomas’s presence could tip the balance. As Ridge’s son and Hope’s former love, he holds influence over both sides. Hope remains firm in her belief that she deserves her leadership role, despite Brooke’s attempts to reason with her. Ridge and Eric have been strategizing to reclaim the company, but their efforts haven’t worked yet. If Thomas were still around, he might be able to sway Hope’s emotions, potentially convincing her to step down.

With Atkinson on a break, fans are wondering whether The Bold and the Beautiful will recast Thomas or write him out temporarily. The show has recast key roles in the past, but Thomas is a fan-favorite, and Matthew Atkinson’s portrayal has become synonymous with the character. If another actor steps in, even for a short time, it could disrupt the chemistry between Thomas and Hope, which has been built up over time. However, with the Forrester Creations power struggle heating up, the show might not have a choice but to bring in someone new.

If they do recast, they’ll need an actor who can capture Thomas’s depth—the passionate love for Hope, his complicated relationship with Ridge, and his devotion to Douglas. If they choose to write him out temporarily, the show could explain his absence with a personal crisis or an unexpected trip. This would allow Matthew Atkinson to return without disturbing the storyline too much.

One interesting rumor suggests that Steffy may be working behind the scenes to bring Thomas back. She’s already trying to manipulate the situation, including sending Daphne to seduce Carter in hopes of breaking his alliance with Hope. If that plan fails, she might turn to Thomas, knowing he could pull Hope away from Forrester Creations. Steffy is fiercely protective of her family’s legacy, and she won’t hesitate to use her brother if it means reclaiming control.

If Thomas does return—whether played by Atkinson or a temporary recast—it could stir up old feelings between him and Hope. Despite their past breakup, Hope was deeply drawn to Thomas and admired his devotion. With her growing independence and frustration over always being Liam’s second choice, she might finally see Thomas as the man who has always put her first. If Steffy manipulates the situation, things could get even messier—because this time, Hope might actually fall for Thomas again.

But what happens if Thomas stays away too long? If Atkinson’s break is extended, the show will have to address his absence. With Ridge and Eric fighting for control of Forrester Creations, they need every ally they can get. If Thomas remains offscreen for too long, it could weaken the storyline. Likewise, Hope’s arc will feel incomplete if she isn’t forced to confront her past with Thomas. At some point, the writers will have to make a decision—wait for Matthew Atkinson, or bring in someone new?

One thing is certain: Thomas’s absence will have major consequences. Whether he returns in time to influence Hope, whether Steffy orchestrates his comeback, or whether the show recasts him entirely, the drama at Forrester Creations is far from over. Would you prefer to see a recast, or should The Bold and the Beautiful wait for Atkinson to return? Stay tuned for more updates as the story unfolds!