It probably didn't hurt that Bridget is being more fleshed out than the character has ever but Finnigan made a strong impression from the start as Bridget had to cope with the disgusting truth that her mother and half brother were lovers. (Ewww.) Finnigan displays a maturity and wisdom beyond her years, making us sympathize with Bridget, and see quite plainly where she's coming from.
Hit Breakout Performance: Mick Cain
Cain made up for lost airtime in 2000, showing smarts and conviction as he confidently navigated his character through a very rough year. He broke our hearts when he learned his beloved Becky was dying, and then stole the show during C.J.'s defiant confrontations with Susan Flannery's Stephanie. And as we all know, raising Cain with Flannery is almost impossible.