In a move that’s sending Days of Our Lives fans into absolute overdrive, Arianne Zucker has officially said YES to returning as the unforgettable Nicole Walker —

and her comeback promises to shake the very foundations of Salem! Sources close to the NBC/Peacock soap confirm that Zucker recently inked a powerhouse deal

that not only brings her back to the screen but also changes the entire direction of the show’s upcoming storylines.

After months of speculation surrounding her future with DOOL, Arianne’s decision to return reportedly came after “a creative overhaul and a storyline pitch she couldn’t resist.” Insiders reveal that head writer Ron Carlivati personally reached out to Zucker with a plot that puts Nicole back at the center of scandal, passion, and power — right where fans have always wanted her.

According to set insiders, Nicole’s return will be anything but quiet. The moment she reappears in Salem, she’ll be carrying a secret that could destroy lives — and reunite her with one very familiar face: Eric Brady (Greg Vaughan). But don’t expect a simple reunion. “Nicole’s been through hell and back, and she’s coming home a different woman,” teased a source. “Her choices will stun fans — and not everyone will welcome her with open arms.”

Rumors are already swirling that her comeback storyline involves a dangerous alliance with EJ DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel). The two are said to be locking horns and hearts as Nicole seeks revenge for past betrayals and a new foothold in the ever-competitive DiMera empire. But is she really out for business — or something far darker?

Behind the scenes, Zucker’s return marks a major turning point for the long-running soap. Her absence left a noticeable void among viewers, and fan campaigns urging her comeback have flooded social media for months. “She’s one of those rare actors who brings depth and unpredictability to every scene,” one insider explained. “Producers knew the show needed her spark back — and they made it happen.”

The deal reportedly includes a multi-year contract with flexibility for Zucker to pursue outside projects — something that became a sticking point in past negotiations. This new agreement signals a strong commitment from both the actress and the network to reignite some of the show’s most explosive rivalries and romances.

As for what fans can expect next? Spoilers tease that Nicole’s first episode back will end in a massive cliffhanger, setting the stage for a new wave of drama that pulls in several core families — including the Bradys, the DiMeras, and the Kiriakises.

With Nicole Walker’s return, one thing is certain — Salem will never be the same again. Betrayals will be exposed, hearts will be broken, and alliances will crumble.