The Peacock soap is bringing aboard Conner Floyd to take over the role previously played by Billy Flynn. Floyd, last seen as Phillip “Chance” Chancellor IV on The Young and the Restless, begins work June 23 on the sudser. Given how far ahead DOOL films, however, fans won’t be able to enjoy the new Chad until April of 2026. Floyd is replacing Billy Flynn, who revealed earlier this year that he’s moving to Y&R. His departure from the Peacock soap was described as amicable. Flynn’s final episode of DOOL is not expected to air until early 2026; he made his Y&R debut on June 19.
“I am grateful for my years at Days. It changed my life in the best ways,” Flynn told TV Insider in March. “I’ve always said these stories we tell are like doing a play, and I’ve spent the last 10-plus years playing this amazing character and telling one of the all-time great love stories. And now I’m excited for this opportunity and to test myself in a new way.”
DOOL also released this statement at the time from EP Ken Corday: ““We support Billy as an actor and friend, and wish him nothing but continued success and happiness, personally and professionally.”
As for Floyd, he joined Y&R in 2021 as Chance. Last month, fans began noticing his absence from both the on-screen action and the credits, though nothing official about his status was revealed. Floyd previously appeared in such movies as The Last Deal and She Inherited Danger. The role of Chad was first originated on DOOL in 2009 by Casey Deidrick. Flynn replaced him in 2014 and ended up developing a big following because of his romance with Abigail Deveraux (played by Kate Mansi and Marci Miller).
Hold onto your remotes, soap opera lovers—big changes are shaking up Salem! The beloved daytime drama Days of Our Lives has officially cast Conner Floyd as the new Chad DiMera, sparking excitement, skepticism, and wild fan theories all over social media. But who is Conner Floyd? Why is this casting such a game-changer? And what can fans expect from this bold new direction for the DiMera dynasty?
Let’s dive into everything you need to know.
Who is Conner Floyd?
The Rising Star in Hollywood
Conner Floyd isn’t entirely new to the soap opera scene. Best known for his role as Chance Chancellor on The Young and the Restless, Floyd proved he could handle intense drama, emotional depth, and complex family storylines—all essential for surviving life in Salem.
Why Did ‘Days of Our Lives’ Choose Him?
Producers clearly see Floyd as the perfect blend of charm, intensity, and vulnerability—a mix that Chad DiMera has always needed. The casting decision suggests the show is ready to refresh Chad’s storylines with new energy.
The Legacy of Chad DiMera
A Character Fans Love (and Sometimes Love to Hate)
Chad DiMera, son of the notorious Stefano DiMera, is no stranger to drama. From tragic love stories to boardroom betrayals, Chad has been central to DOOL’s most unforgettable moments.
Billy Flynn’s Departure: The End of an Era
Longtime fans are bittersweet about Billy Flynn leaving the role. His portrayal of Chad was nuanced and heartfelt, making this casting change a big deal for viewers invested in the DiMera family saga.
What Conner Floyd Brings to Chad DiMera
Fresh Energy and Bold Presence
Conner Floyd offers a different edge—think youthful confidence mixed with emotional complexity. Expect him to shake things up in ways the old Chad never dared.
Possible New Storylines
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A fiery new romance?
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Power struggles at DiMera Enterprises?
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Long-lost family secrets?
With Floyd stepping in, DOOL has plenty of narrative possibilities to explore.
Fan Reactions: Social Media Explodes
Divided Opinions Across the Fanbase
Some fans are thrilled about the casting, flooding Twitter with welcome messages and casting their hopes for a more dynamic Chad. Others are cautiously skeptical, wondering if Floyd can live up to Billy Flynn’s legacy.
What the Critics Say
Soap opera insiders suggest Floyd’s casting is a bold but smart move, hinting that Salem’s power plays and romantic triangles are about to get even more intense.
Behind-the-Scenes Buzz
The Audition Process
Rumor has it Floyd wowed producers with an audition scene involving a heated argument in the DiMera mansion—foreshadowing the explosive drama to come.
Cast Members React
Several DOOL veterans have welcomed Floyd with open arms, teasing “big things ahead” in interviews and on Instagram.
What This Means for the DiMera Family Saga
New Dynamics in the DiMera Mansion
Expect fireworks as Chad clashes with his siblings, plots revenge, or maybe—even reconciles old family grudges. The DiMeras are Salem’s royal family of chaos, and Floyd’s arrival ensures that tradition will continue.
Romantic Shake-Ups on the Horizon?
Could Chad find new love? Rekindle old flames? Fans are already shipping him with a few characters he hasn’t even shared scenes with yet!
Why This Casting Could Save ‘Days of Our Lives’
Injecting New Life into an Aging Storyline
Let’s face it: even the most beloved soap characters can get stale after years on screen. Conner Floyd’s fresh face might just be the shot of adrenaline DOOL needs to keep fans glued to their screens.
Appealing to Younger Viewers
With streaming audiences growing, a younger, dynamic Chad could help Days of Our Lives win back Gen Z and Millennial fans who love romance, mystery, and family drama.
Could This Change the Show’s Direction?
Potential Plot Twists to Watch For
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Chad turning villain?
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DiMera family civil war?
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Shocking returns from the dead?
Anything’s possible in Salem—and with a new Chad, the writers may feel free to explore riskier, wilder storylines.
A Bold Move in a Competitive Soap Opera World
Keeping ‘DOOL’ Fresh Against Rivals
With other soaps pulling out all the stops to stay relevant, this casting could give Days of Our Lives the edge it needs to dominate daytime drama once again.
How Conner Floyd is Preparing for the Role
Inside Sources Reveal…
Word has it Floyd’s been binging classic DOOL episodes to study Chad’s complex history—smart move. He’s also reportedly working closely with the writers to understand the DiMera family’s tangled web.
The Challenges Ahead for Floyd
Winning Over Die-Hard Fans
Replacing a fan-favorite is never easy. Floyd must bring depth, vulnerability, and charisma if he hopes to win over Billy Flynn loyalists.
Is This the Start of a New Golden Age for ‘Days of Our Lives’?
Fans Hope So!
If Floyd’s Chad clicks with audiences, we might just be at the dawn of a thrilling new era in Salem. The drama, romance, and betrayals fans crave could hit new heights.
Conclusion: Excitement in Salem Like Never Before
In a world where soap operas fight to keep every viewer’s attention, this casting choice feels daring—and exactly what Days of Our Lives needs. Conner Floyd stepping into Chad DiMera’s shoes could bring new life, new passion, and a truckload of fresh drama to the streets of Salem.
One thing’s for sure: fans everywhere will be watching closely to see if this bold gamble pays off.
