B&B Commentary: Where Is Thomas Forrester? RJ’s Unrealistic Rise

Brayan Nicolett (R.J. Forrester) and Matthew Atkinson (Thomas Forrester)

The debate surrounding The Bold and the Beautiful’s next “it” designer is heating up—and we're not holding back. At the center of the controversy? RJ Forrester’s rapid rise versus Thomas Forrester’s puzzling absence from the spotlight.

B&B Commentary: Where Is Thomas Forrester? RJ’s Unrealistic Rise

RJ has been positioned as the heir apparent at Forrester Creations, seemingly skipping the traditional grind that other designers—especially Thomas—had to endure. With minimal professional experience and a past rooted more in social media than fashion design, RJ’s sudden elevation to phenom status has left many viewers scratching their heads. The show has leaned heavily into portraying him as both a creative prodigy and a desirable leading man, and we're not buying it.

Meanwhile, Thomas Forrester—arguably one of the most complex and battle-tested designers in the show’s history—appears to be sidelined. As Ridge’s firstborn, Thomas was pushed, challenged, and forced to prove himself time and time again. His journey wasn’t handed to him; it was earned through setbacks, reinventions, and undeniable talent.

Adding to the confusion is the status of Hope for the Future. At one point, Thomas was reestablished as the lead designer, working out of the Paris office, signaling a strong creative direction for the brand. Yet, his presence has been inconsistent at best—reduced to brief returns that feel more like teases than meaningful story development. For a character so integral to the line’s success, the lack of follow-through has left a noticeable void.

And then there’s Zende Forrester Dominguez (Delon De Metz), another talented designer who seemed poised to play a major role. Before RJ’s sudden prominence, Zende was already embedded in the fashion house and actively contributing. Now, he appears overshadowed in a storyline that has shifted focus almost entirely to RJ.

The frustration isn’t just about favoritism—it’s about storytelling. Viewers invest in characters who evolve, struggle, and ultimately earn their place. Thomas’ arc delivered exactly that, making his current off-screen status all the more perplexing. In contrast, RJ’s meteoric rise feels unearned to some, sparking criticism that the show is prioritizing convenience over credibility.

Ultimately, we aren’t just questioning RJ’s role—we are just asking for balance. We, the fans, want the return of dynamic storytelling, meaningful character arcs, and the kind of romantic and professional tension that once made The Bold and the Beautiful must-watch television.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about who holds the sketchpad—it’s about who truly earns the spotlight.

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