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Days of our Lives, the legendary NBC soap opera, experienced a whirlwind of casting comings and goings throughout 2025. Galen Gering concluded his portrayal of Rafe Hernandez's doppelganger, Arnold Feniger, while Emily O'Brien's role as Teresa Donovan came to an end, leaving her to focus solely on Gwen Rizczech. Tamara Braun departed as Ava Vitali, and Madelineine Kenes was replaced by Rachel Boyd in the role of Sophia Choi. Alice Halsey took over the role of Rachel Black before leaving for a new project, and Billy Flynn's Chad DiMera was recast with Connor Floyd. 

Another notable exit was Drake Hogestyn's character, John Black, following the actor's real-life passing from pancreatic cancer. His death triggered brief comebacks from familiar faces like Hope and Bo Brady, Carrie Brady, Anna DiMera, Will Horton, Paul Narita, Andrew Donovan, and Shane Donovan. Alison Sweeney also reprised her role as Sammy Brady on multiple occasions throughout the year. 

Al Calderon's portrayal of Javi Hernandez concluded, with a recast yet to be revealed. Peyton Meyer's stint as Doug Williams III ended on a positive note, while Cary Christopher, who played young Thomas DiMera, also left the show. 

The 60th anniversary episodes saw the return of many beloved characters, including Jennifer and Jack Horton, Mike and Marie Horton, Eli and Lani Price, and Steven Horton. With 2026 underway, fans eagerly anticipate further casting news and plot developments on Days of our Lives. 

This episode was hosted by Belynda Gates-Turner for the #1 Soap Opera Channel, Soap Dirt.

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