Paul Telfer shares why Xander and Sarah’s reunion can’t happen yet — and what must change before it does.
At the 33rd annual Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame Awards in New York City, Days of our Lives was honored with the Iconic Show Award, celebrating six decades of drama. Among the cast members in attendance was Paul Telfer, who spoke with Soap Hub’s Alina Adams about the show’s milestone, the legacy of his late co-stars, and why Xander and Sarah’s reunion isn’t happening as quickly as fans hope.
Key Takeaways
- Paul Telfer says Xander and Sarah need growth before a real reconciliation can happen.
- He and Lindsay Arnold love working together and want the pairing to last.
- Telfer reflects on lessons learned from John Aniston and Drake Hogestyn.
- He opens up about working with the young actors who play his daughter, Victoria.
- Days of our Lives was honored with the Iconic Show Award at the Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame gala.
Why Xander and Sarah’s Reunion Must Wait
When it comes to Xander and Sarah (Linsey Godfrey, who recently revealed her secrets), Telfer knows the frustration fans feel. “We love working together and we love that relationship,” he admitted. “But Xander and Sarah need new coping mechanisms. They can’t just keep lying or getting violent. Until they resolve those issues, reconciliation can’t stick. What I look forward to is sharing that journey.”
What Telfer Learned From Soap Legends
Telfer also reflected on his time learning from DAYS legends who are no longer with us. He credited John Aniston (Victor) and Drake Hogestyn (John) with teaching him lessons that went beyond the craft.
“From John, I learned gravitas and efficiency. From Drake, generosity and work ethic. Those lessons stay with me, and I hope I can carry them forward.”
Looking back, Telfer even joked about how long it takes for newcomers to be truly recognized on set. “I used to joke they don’t even learn your name until you’ve been on five years,” he said with a laugh. “Now I understand. When people tell you ‘you’ll be back,’ it’s a huge compliment. It means the show knows you’re good, even if the timing isn’t right.”
Finding Joy With DAYS’ Next Generation
Telfer added that while he once disliked working with children, the young actors who play his daughter, Victoria, have changed his perspective. “They look me right in the eye, they think I’m silly, and I can be silly with them. Having Linsey as a partner makes it even better—she does the hard work, and I just swoop in and look like I know what I’m doing.”
For Telfer, the mix of honoring DAYS’ past, embracing the present, and looking ahead to Xander’s future makes being part of the iconic soap deeply rewarding.
