Brady (Peter Reckell) rallied to come back to his “Fancy Face,” AKA his true love Hope (Kristian Alfonso). Fans have been clamoring for a happy “Bope” reunion on-screen for years, and Alfonso is thrilled to deliver. But would the DAYS veteran contemplate coming back to Salem for a longer stint? She told Woman’s World:
Days of Our Lives has a piece of my heart always. It’s home. So if it was a great 3 month storyline… honestly, I don’t know! I had no plan on returning to the show, but coming and going has been super fun. As Days celebrates 60 years, it’s very special to still be a part of this.
For nearly four decades, Days of Our Lives fans have followed the rollercoaster life of Hope Brady, the fierce, fashionable, and beloved heroine played by Kristian Alfonso. From royal escapades to heartbreak and everything in between, Hope became a cornerstone of the show — and Alfonso became a daytime legend.
But since leaving the show in 2020, fans have been wondering: Is there still hope for Hope?
Let’s dive into what Kristian Alfonso just revealed about a potential long-term return to Days of Our Lives, and what it really means for the future of the soap.
Kristian Alfonso’s Sudden Exit: What Really Happened?
A Departure That Shocked Fans
In July 2020, Kristian Alfonso announced her exit from Days after 37 years — without even filming a farewell scene. Many were stunned. Others were heartbroken.
So why the sudden decision?
Feeling Disconnected From Her Character
Alfonso cited a creative disconnect. She didn’t want to return just to fill space. She wanted meaningful storytelling — not just screen time. Her love for Hope never faded, but her passion for the role needed to be reignited.
A Surprising Comeback: Hope’s 2023 Return
Fast-forward to 2023. Fans were thrilled to see Alfonso return briefly as Hope in the Days of Our Lives: Beyond Salem spinoff. The cameo sparked rumors of a full-blown return.
Was This a Test Run?
While Alfonso didn’t commit to anything, the buzz was impossible to ignore. Her chemistry with long-time co-stars, particularly Peter Reckell (Bo Brady), was as electric as ever.
Kristian Alfonso Speaks Out: Will She Come Back for Good?
Her Recent Interview Says It All
In a recent sit-down interview, Kristian Alfonso addressed the million-dollar question: Would she return to the show for a longer stint?
Her answer? “Never say never.”
That’s not a yes. But it’s definitely not a no.
What’s Holding Her Back?
Creative Control and Storyline Quality
Alfonso emphasized that she values storytelling that’s authentic and character-driven. If she’s going to return as Hope, it has to be for a purpose — not just nostalgia.
In short, she wants her comeback to matter.
What Would a Long-Term Return Look Like?
Fan Expectations Are Sky High
If Hope were to return, fans would want:
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A proper reunion with Bo
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Closure on Ciara and her new life
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A central, dynamic storyline that reflects her strength
Let’s face it — viewers don’t want Hope washing dishes. They want adventure, romance, and emotional depth.
Reuniting Bo and Hope: Is It Possible?
A Soap Opera Love Story That Endures
Hope and Bo are the couple of Days. If Alfonso returns, many believe it must be alongside Peter Reckell.
And guess what? Reckell has also hinted at wanting more scenes with Alfonso. Could this be the comeback fans deserve?
The Impact of a Hope Return on the Show
More Than Just Nostalgia
Hope’s return wouldn’t just spark fan excitement — it could revitalize ratings, deepen existing storylines, and introduce a whole new generation of drama.
Imagine:
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Hope running for mayor
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A new love triangle
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Flashbacks and legacy episodes
Yeah, the potential is massive.
The Challenge of Filling Hope’s Shoes
No One Can Replace Kristian Alfonso
Some characters can be recast. Hope Brady isn’t one of them. Alfonso is Hope — and viewers know it.
That’s why any comeback must feel authentic, not forced.
Behind the Scenes: What Producers Might Be Planning
A Strategic Slow-Burn Return?
It’s possible that producers are already in quiet talks with Alfonso. Soap comebacks aren’t always announced upfront. Often, they’re tested with short arcs or cliffhangers.
So, her brief 2023 return might’ve been a teaser of what’s to come.
Could a Limited Series Be the Answer?
Beyond Salem as a Spinoff Model
Beyond Salem proved that fans will show up for streaming-only arcs. If Alfonso isn’t ready for a full return, maybe a limited series or annual specials could be the perfect compromise.
Alfonso’s Standards Are High — And Rightfully So
She Won’t Return Just for a Paycheck
Kristian Alfonso is clear: she doesn’t want to return just to be background noise. If Hope’s story picks up again, it needs depth, conflict, and growth.
That level of commitment means if she returns, it’ll be worth watching.
What Fans Are Saying Online
Social Media Is Begging for Her Return
Twitter, Facebook groups, and Reddit are all flooded with hopeful messages:
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“Days isn’t the same without Hope.”
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“If she comes back, I’ll start watching again.”
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“We need Bo and Hope together!”
It’s clear: the demand is real.
What Would Make Her Say Yes?
The Right Story at the Right Time
Alfonso has said she’s open to returning — but only if the storyline excites her. That means:
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Emotional arcs
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Heroic stakes
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Rich relationships
Basically, everything that made Hope iconic in the first place.
Conclusion: Is There Still Hope for Hope?
Let’s put it this way — Kristian Alfonso hasn’t shut the door. If anything, she’s cracking it open again.
Will she return to Days of Our Lives full-time? Only time (and some epic scriptwriting) will tell. But one thing’s certain:
Hope still lives in the hearts of fans everywhere.
