Soap opera fans were left heartbroken late last week when actor Billy Miller suddenly died just prior to his birthday. 

According to Breitbart, Miller passed away on Friday, which was only two days before he was set to turn 44-years-old. His cause of death has yet to be revealed.

A soap opera career spanning a decade and a half

Breitbart explained that Miller originally hailed from Oklahoma but attended Lamar High School in Arlington, Texas and later graduated with a communications degree from the University of Texas in Austin.

The actor gained a major break in 2007 when he landed the role of Richie Novak on ABC's "All My Children." Two years later, he began playing Billy Abbott on CBS' "The Young and the Restless."

The daytime community mourns the loss of Billy Miller who graced Y&R with his talent for many years as Billy Abbott. Our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/71j5ESSfpQ

— Young and Restless (@YandR_CBS) September 17, 2023

During his six year stint on the program, Miller won three Daytime Emmy Awards, two in the category of Outstanding Supporting Actor and third as Outstanding Lead Actor.

Actor was "much loved" by his colleagues

In 2014, Miller began playing the character Jason Morgan/Drew Cain on ABC's "General Hospital," a role he remained in until 2019.

In addition to his work on soap operas, Miller appeared on CSI: NY, Justified, Ringer, Major Crimes, Suits, and Ray Donovan.  He was also a recurring figure on the Apple TV+ drama "Truth Be Told."

Social media tributes to Miller quickly appeared, including from actress Jess Walton, who appeared alongside him on "The Young and the Restless" as Jill Abbott.

"RIP to my precious Billy Miller," Walton said in a tweet on Monday. "You were and ARE much loved by all of us who knew you."

RIP to my precious Billy Miller. You were and ARE much loved by all of us who knew you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/xaUTqM9Ho3

— Jess Walton (@JessWaltonYR) September 18, 2023

Miller remembered for "his infectious charm and warmth"

Veteran actress and fellow soap era Eileen Davidson spoke up as well, stating, "I'm so sad to hear of Billy Miller's passing."

I'm so sad to hear of Billy Miller's passing. His infectious charm and warmth left lasting impressions on all of us who were lucky enough to have him in our lives. Im gonna miss that mischievous smile. Love you Billy. pic.twitter.com/kTnML9Zxlw

— Eileen Davidson (@eileen_davidson) September 17, 2023

"His infectious charm and warmth left lasting impressions on all of us who were lucky enough to have him in our lives," she continued, adding, "I'm gonna miss that mischievous smile. Love you Billy."