Leadership isn’t for everyone, and Ridge Forrester (Thorsten Kaye) has proven time and time again that being at the helm of Forrester Creations just isn’t the role for him. On The Bold and the Beautiful, Ridge may have many talents, but when it comes to leading his father’s company, he’s admitted what fans already know—he’s not the right fit for the job.
The Downfall of a Hot-Headed Leader
Ridge’s temperament has always been his Achilles’ heel. He’s quick to anger and even quicker to act on it, often to disastrous results. One prime example was his outburst toward Hope (Annika Noelle), where he let his emotions cloud his judgment. The harsh words he directed at her not only tarnished his professional relationships but also took a toll on his personal life, causing further rifts with Brooke (Katherine Kelly Lang).
Even Thorsten Kaye, who portrays Ridge, acknowledged the moment as a “poor choice of words,” but it highlighted Ridge’s inability to keep his emotions in check—a crucial quality for any leader. At a time when Forrester Creations needs stability and measured decision-making, Ridge’s fiery outbursts only add fuel to an already turbulent fire.
A Legacy of Poor Decisions
If there’s one consistent pattern in Ridge’s leadership style, it’s indecision. Whether it’s his personal relationships or corporate strategy, Ridge struggles to commit. His waffling between Brooke and Taylor (Rebecca Budig) mirrors his inability to take decisive action at Forrester. This indecision not only weakens his authority but also impacts the company’s future.
Ridge often offloads responsibilities onto others, most notably his daughter Steffy (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood), who has shouldered much of the leadership burden. His reluctance to take on the full weight of the CEO role shows that his heart—and focus—just isn’t in it.
The Call to Return to His Passion
While Ridge may not excel as a corporate leader, he is undeniably a gifted designer. Fashion has always been his true calling, bringing him both joy and fulfillment. Designing allows Ridge to channel his creativity and contribute to Forrester Creations in a way that aligns with his strengths.
Perhaps it’s this self-awareness that has led Ridge to acknowledge that he’s better suited to the design studio than the boardroom. By stepping away from the CEO position, he not only does what’s best for himself but also for the company that means so much to his family.
Who Should Lead Forrester Creations?
The question remains: If not Ridge, then who? Brooke’s leadership has proven effective in the past, and she possesses the grounded perspective the company needs to thrive. With her steady hand, Brooke could steer Forrester Creations through its challenges, ensuring the company’s legacy endures.
What Do You Think?
Should Ridge ever return to the CEO chair, or is his place firmly in the design room? The Bold and the Beautiful fans, share your thoughts in the comments below! Is Ridge’s self-awareness a sign of growth, or do you believe he still has what it takes to lead Forrester Creations?
