Days of Our Lives fans have a reason to celebrate, one of the most popular stars of the ’90s is making a comeback as Patrick Muldoon is returning to Salem. The official Days of Our Lives Instagram account released a quick reel showing Muldoon making his way back to the set. Captioning the video “Who is that wandering around Salem…and why?! 👀
Because of Days of Our Lives production model, Muldoon’s episodes will not air for roughly nine months. DAYS OF OUR LIVES — Pictured: (l-r) Christie Clark as Carrie Brady, Patrick Muldoon as Austin Reed (Photo by Chris Haston/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images) No storyline details have been released as to what brings Muldoon’s character (presumably Austin Reed) back to town, so viewers will have to stay tuned to find out more. Fans immediately took to the comment section to share their excitement upon seeing Muldoon back on set. “Patrick as Austin.. long no see for a long haul years! So great to see you back! 😊” exclaimed one user, while another added, “THE HOTTTTT PATRICK MULDOON. Tell me he’s coming back though he should have returned with Carrie” while a third said, “Can’t wait to see Austin back! Hope Carrie is back too @monkeywenches ! ❤️” with another excitedly said, “YESSSSS AUSTINNNNN..CRUSH VIBES ON 💯.”
Muldoon was last seen as Austin Reed in 2012. However, the character of Austin has also been portrayed by actor Austin Peck who played the role off an on beginning in 1995 and had his most recent appearance in Days of Our Lives: Beyond Salem in 2021. Muldoon is not the only actor that will be returning to Salem over the next few months as the soap opera prepares to celebrate 60 years on the air. This November, Days of Our Lives will mark 60 years on air. To highlight the anniversary, the writing team announced plans for a huge gala celebration. The writers teased this gala will be filled “with the return of many familiar faces, leading to a new umbrella story that takes us into the new year.”
Some of the confirmed familiar faces returning to the soap this year include Tony DiMera (Thaao Penghlis) and his wife Anna DiMera (Leann Hunley). Jack Deveraux (Matthew Ashford), Jennifer Deveraux (Melissa Reeves), twins Eric Brady (Greg Vaughan) and Sami Brady (Alison Sweeney), and her son Will Horton (Chandler Massey).
Soap opera fans, buckle up — because a beloved face from the golden era of the 90s is stepping back into the drama-filled streets of Salem! The moment viewers have been waiting for has finally arrived: a former teen idol, now 56, is making a grand, goosebump-worthy return to Days of Our Lives. But why now? What does this mean for the storylines? And most importantly — who is this mystery heartthrob? Keep reading to find out every delicious detail.
The Big Reveal: Who Is the 90s Heartthrob Returning?
For those of you furiously guessing — yes, it’s Austin Peck, the actor who famously portrayed the dreamy Austin Reed during the 90s. Known for his square jaw, irresistible smile, and tangled love triangles, Austin ruled daytime television when Days of Our Lives was at its steamy peak.
Why Fans Are Losing Their Minds Over His Return
Let’s be honest — this comeback isn’t just another casting update. It’s a huge deal. Why? Because soap fans are some of the most loyal (and vocal) fans in the world. Twitter exploded when the news dropped, with hashtags like #AustinIsBack and #DOOLLegendReturns trending instantly.
It’s not every day that a 90s soap king dusts off his leather jacket to stir up the drama once more.
Austin Peck’s Journey: From Soap Stud to Hollywood and Back
Early Days: The Rise of a 90s Icon
Austin Peck joined Days of Our Lives in 1995, instantly stealing hearts as Austin Reed, the perfect mix of brooding and charming. His complicated romances with characters like Carrie and Sami became must-watch TV.
Post-‘Days’ Career Moves
After leaving the show in the early 2000s, Peck dipped into other soap operas such as As the World Turns and One Life to Live, proving his staying power in the soap universe. But no matter where he went, Days fans kept asking: “When will Austin come home?”
Why He Left — And Why He’s Back Now
In interviews, Peck admitted he left to “explore new challenges” — but the pull of Salem (and a fresh, juicy storyline) was too strong to resist. Plus, fans never stopped asking for his return.
The Power of Nostalgia: Why 90s Soap Stars Still Matter
Here’s the truth: daytime TV might have changed, but the 90s were a golden age — and stars like Austin Peck made it unforgettable. His return taps into something special: nostalgia. Like slipping into a pair of old jeans that still fit, fans feel comforted and thrilled at the same time.
What We Know About His New Storyline So Far
Details are under wraps, but rumor has it that Austin returns to Salem on the heels of a family scandal — and possibly a rekindled romance. Could this mean trouble for old flames? The writers are keeping quiet, but soap insiders hint at major plot twists ahead.
Could Old Flames Reignite? Carrie vs. Sami All Over Again?
Longtime viewers will remember the epic Carrie/Austin/Sami triangle that fueled countless episodes. Now, with Austin back in town, could this love triangle rise from the ashes? Speculation is running wild — and fans are here for it.
How Austin’s Return Will Shake Up Salem
1. Romance Rekindled?
Could Austin patch things up with Carrie… or fall into Sami’s web again?
2. Family Secrets Unleashed
Word is, Austin’s return will drag buried DiMera secrets to the surface. Expect shock, betrayal, and jaw-dropping revelations.
3. Business Battles Brewing
Austin might find himself at odds with Titan Industries or Basic Black — and that means clashes with powerhouses like Brady or EJ.
Cast Reactions: Old Friends Welcome Him Back
Several cast members shared their excitement on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter):
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Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady) posted: “Look who’s back in Salem!! The drama is about to heat up…”
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Christie Clark (Carrie Brady) added: “So many memories… and so much unfinished business!”
What This Means for the Future of ‘Days of Our Lives’
Austin’s return isn’t a random cameo. Sources say this is part of a broader plan to revitalize the show with fresh twists and classic vibes, blending the old with the new to keep longtime fans hooked while attracting younger viewers.
Why the Timing Is Perfect for a Soap Comeback
Let’s face it — the 90s are hot again. From fashion revivals to TV reboots, everything old is new. Bringing back a 90s heartthrob feeds this cultural craving perfectly.
The Fan Response: Social Media Erupts in Joy
Across platforms, fans are freaking out (in the best way):
“My teenage heart is screaming! Welcome back, Austin!!!” — @SoapQueen90
“This is the spark DOOL needed! Can’t wait for the drama!” — @SalemFanForever
Could This Lead to a Spin-Off Series?
With the recent buzz about Blue Bloods launching a spin-off, some DOOL insiders hint that a 90s-themed spin-off could be in early talks — following characters like Austin, Carrie, and Sami in a retro-style series. Could the 90s soap magic return full-force? Never say never.
Behind-the-Scenes Scoop: Austin Peck’s Thoughts on Coming Back
In a recent podcast interview, Peck revealed:
“It feels like coming home… The sets, the people, the smell of the studio — it’s like time travel. But I’m here to stir things up. Fans won’t be disappointed.”
Chills, right?
Conclusion: A Return Worth Waiting For
Austin Peck’s comeback to Days of Our Lives proves that soap legends never truly leave our hearts. Whether you watched him woo Carrie in high school or are discovering his charm for the first time, this return promises excitement, romance, and scandal galore. Salem will never be the same.
