Justin Hartley knows that many Young and the Restless fans are angry that he's replaced Michael Muhney on the popular CBS soap opera. But, the 37-year-old, who will make his first appearance on Nov. 5, said he understands their frustration.

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"There are people who are happy I'm joining Y&R and those who clearly don't want a recast. They want the Adam they know and love and are never going to like it if the part isn't played by Michael Muhney. I get that. I think that's fair," he told TVGuide.com in a new interview. "It's like trying to get your brain around Derek Jeter leaving the Yankees. I was an emotional mess over that, so I understand the feeling of loss."

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Yet, Hartley still hopes fans will give him a chance and he promised that he will try to do the role justice. "I'm going to do my best. We'll see what happens. By the way, I don't technically feel I'm replacing Michael Muhney. I am replacing the computer hand than replaced Muhney," he said. "I feel confident I can at least do a better job than the hand did!"

Despite all the controversy, Muhney, who played Adam from 2009 to 2013, also sent some kind words to his replacement. "I really like Justin Hartley. He's a good guy. We really get along well. I wish him the best. Be kind to him. #goodguy," Muhney tweeted in August.

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Justin Hartley, The Young and the Restless, Michael Muhney