On May 29, 2015, "Soap Opera Digest" announced that Robert Palmer Watkins had been cast in the role of Dillon. Of his casting, Watkins said "I love the character and I am so excited to be a part of the show." Watkins had previously auditioned for casting director Mark Teschner upon graduating from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy several years before landing the role of Dillon. Watkins later revealed that he auditioned for the role Morgan Corinthos in 2013 but he didn't fit the role. Watkins auditioned for the series once again in 2014. "It went really well" Watkins said. Teschner told Watkins they would call him back in. Watkins was left disappointed when he didn't hear anything. The series contacted him again a year later but Watkins said "I didn't want to get too excited" because he thought the casting might be put on hold again. Watkins was soon called into meet the producers and learned he had booked the role of Dillon. Watkins said getting the news "was probably the most exciting news of my career thus far. I'm still in shock, honestly" Watkins exclaimed. He continued, "I can relate a lot to Dillon; I feel like this role was meant for me. It feels right." Watkins said he was initially a bit "naive" about the importance of the role. "I feel like I've hit the jackpot and I'm just overwhelmed and grateful" the actor continued. On August 17, 2017, "Daytime Confidential" exclusively announced that Watkins had been let go from the serial. In November 2017, Soaps.com announced that Palmer Watkins would remain on the soap in a recurring capacity. Despite this, Dillon never returned.