There are Days of Our Lives cast updates! The beloved soap opera TV show, which premiered in 1965, is one of the longest-running scripted television series of all time, airing almost every day ever since. The show centers around the lives, loves, trials and tribulations of the citizens of the fictional city of Salem.
In the past few weeks, there have been some significant changes regarding the casting of the series, including a return of a long-running character, recastings, exits, and new stars joining the show that you might recognize from other shows.
If you’re a long-time fan of Days of Our Lives, brace yourself. June 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic months off-screen, with a tidal wave of cast shake-ups sending shockwaves through the soap opera world. From long-lost characters making triumphant returns to heartbreaking exits and eyebrow-raising recasts, this is the kind of plot twist that doesn’t even need a script. Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about the Days of Our Lives cast shake-up this month.
Why June 2025 Is a Turning Point for ‘Days of Our Lives’
Let’s be real—soap operas thrive on change, but this month feels different. It’s not just one or two characters leaving or popping back in. The entire landscape of Salem is shifting, and viewers are taking notice.
The Big Returns – Fan Favorites Are Back!
Bo Brady (Peter Reckell) Rises Again
Yes, you read that right. After teasing fans with a brief appearance last year, Peter Reckell is officially back on contract. Expect Bo Brady to reclaim his throne and stir the pot like only he can.
Hope Williams Brady (Kristian Alfonso) Reunites with Bo
What’s Bo without Hope? Kristian Alfonso is also making a dramatic return, and whispers behind the scenes suggest a major romance revival arc is in the works.
Sami Brady Returns—With a Secret
Alison Sweeney will be back as Sami Brady, but it won’t be your usual family visit. Rumor has it she’s bringing along a shocking new character—a previously unknown child with a mysterious past.
Who’s Leaving? The Most Shocking Exits
Goodbye, Marlena? (Deidre Hall’s Emotional Exit)
It’s the end of an era. Deidre Hall, who has played Dr. Marlena Evans for decades, is reportedly bowing out this summer. Whether it’s temporary or final, her exit will be emotionally charged—and possibly deadly.
Rafe Hernandez Departs
Galen Gering is wrapping up his storyline as Rafe Hernandez, leaving fans heartbroken. He’s had quite the run, but the character’s arc is rumored to end with a dramatic cliffhanger.
The Recast Files – Who’s Playing Who Now?
New Face for EJ DiMera
Dan Feuerriegel is reportedly stepping back from the role of EJ DiMera, with a younger actor stepping in. Expect a slick, darker version of EJ to emerge—one who’s got secrets and sharper claws.
Abigail Deveraux Returns… But with a Twist
No, you’re not imagining things—Abigail’s back, but not played by Marci Miller. A new actress has taken on the role, and she’s already turning heads with her fresh take on the troubled heroine.
Why These Changes Matter for Long-Term Storylines
These aren’t just cosmetic changes. Each recast or return brings ripple effects to the larger DOOL universe. From legacy family feuds to business rivalries and shocking paternity bombshells, it’s all being set up in June.
What the Producers Are Saying
The show’s executive producer teased a “summer of transformation” in an interview, hinting that the cast shake-up is just phase one. A “massive arc involving three generations of characters” is supposedly in the pipeline.
Behind-the-Scenes Drama You Didn’t See Coming
A few of the exits weren’t planned. Sources suggest some actors were blindsided by the timing of their departure, especially with streaming numbers surging. Budget cuts, contract disputes, and creative redirection seem to be the hidden villains behind the scenes.
Timeline of Key Cast Changes in June 2025
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June 3: EJ’s recast announced
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June 5: Marlena’s final scenes taped
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June 10: Bo and Hope’s return promo drops
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June 17: Abigail reappears onscreen
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June 21: Sami arrives in Salem
Fan Reactions: Outrage, Joy, and Everything In Between
From Reddit threads to Twitter storms, fans are NOT holding back. While Bo and Hope’s return has united longtime viewers in joy, Marlena’s exit has sparked outrage and petitions. Meanwhile, the new Abigail has the fandom split right down the middle.
What the Actors Are Saying
Deidre Hall on Leaving Marlena
“I’ve lived a thousand lives in Salem, and now it’s time to rest. I’ll miss her, but I’m leaving with peace and pride.”
Alison Sweeney on Her Comeback
“Sami’s never done stirring things up. I’ve missed this chaos!”
How This Impacts Ratings & Future Storylines
Early indicators suggest a spike in viewership for June, especially with Bo and Hope front and center. The strategy seems clear: bring back the legends to anchor new drama, attract lapsed fans, and retool the canvas for a younger audience.
Teasers for July and Beyond
The shake-up isn’t ending in June. July is reportedly bringing even more blasts from the past and a shocking death that “no one will see coming.” Get ready for more curveballs.
What This Means for the Show’s Future on Peacock
With the move to streaming, Days of Our Lives is evolving—and fast. The cast changes reflect a bigger push to stay competitive in the binge-watch era. More serialized arcs, shocking reveals, and faster pacing are expected.
Our Take – Is This the Refresh ‘Days’ Needed?
Honestly? Yes. Change is scary, but soaps are built to evolve. While it’s painful to see icons exit, fresh blood and legacy comebacks can be just the thing to reinvigorate Salem.
Conclusion
June 2025 is more than just a busy month for Days of Our Lives—it’s a full-blown reboot of the show’s heart and soul. Whether you’re thrilled by returning legends or gutted by surprise exits, there’s no denying the buzz. Salem is spinning, and fans better buckle up.
