The world of daytime television is no stranger to jaw-dropping twists, but this time, the drama is unfolding both on and off the screen. Days of Our Lives fans are buzzing

after news emerged that Jackée Harry—the legendary actress who brings the larger-than-life Paulina Price to Salem—has undergone major surgery, temporarily stepping back

from the spotlight as she recovers. While speculation has run wild, the story behind Jackée’s decision is layered, deeply personal, and emblematic of the pressures faced

by Hollywood icons navigating fame, aging, and reinvention. Jackée Harry is not merely a cast member on Days of Our Lives; she is a television institution. Since joining the soap in 2021 as Paulina Price, she has injected Salem with glamour, humor, and emotional complexity. Paulina arrived with secrets, ambition, and a commanding presence, quickly becoming one of the show’s most compelling figures. Her romance with Abe Carver, her complicated family revelations, and her fierce determination have cemented her as a fan favorite. So when whispers surfaced that Jackée had undergone surgery and might step away from her role—if only briefly—the soap world collectively held its breath.

According to multiple industry sources and Jackée’s own candid remarks in recent interviews, the actress chose to undergo a significant facial and neck procedure in late 2025. This was not a spur-of-the-moment decision, nor was it driven by vanity. At 69, Jackée has spoken openly about the physical changes she experienced following rapid weight loss, changes that left her feeling disconnected from the vibrant, confident woman she knows herself to be. In an industry that scrutinizes every wrinkle and shadow, that disconnect can be profound.

Jackée’s career has always been defined by courage and authenticity. Born Jacqueline Yvonne Harry on August 14, 1956, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and raised in Harlem, New York, she carved her path through talent and determination. Her historic Emmy win in 1987 for 227 made her the first African American woman to win Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series—a milestone that reshaped television history. From Sister, Sister to Everybody Hates Chris, Jackée has consistently delivered performances rich with heart and humor. Her return to daytime television with Days of Our Lives was widely celebrated as a triumphant new chapter.

That same fearlessness guided her decision to undergo surgery. Inspired by women like Jane Fonda and Kris Jenner—public figures who have reframed cosmetic procedures as acts of agency rather than shame—Jackée approached the process thoughtfully. After years of reflection, she entrusted her care to renowned Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon Dr. Patrick Davis, opting for a deep plane facelift, a sophisticated technique designed to restore natural contours rather than create an artificial, “pulled” appearance.

The procedure itself was extensive, addressing both facial and neck concerns. Recovery, by Jackée’s own admission, was challenging. Swelling, bruising, and weeks of rest were required, prompting questions about her availability for Days of Our Lives. The soap, which films months in advance, has a long history of navigating actor absences through creative storytelling—sudden trips, off-screen explanations, or temporary recasts. Fans immediately began speculating: Would Paulina disappear from Salem? Would the show acknowledge her changed appearance? Or would the transition be seamless?

Producers have remained tight-lipped, but Jackée has reassured fans that her absence, if any, will be short-lived. In a playful social media post, she teased that Paulina “isn’t going anywhere—she’s just getting fiercer.” That reassurance has done little to quell fan theories, but it has underscored Jackée’s commitment to the role and to the audience that has embraced her so passionately.

The reaction from viewers has been overwhelmingly supportive. Social media platforms have lit up with praise, admiration, and gratitude for Jackée’s transparency. Many fans see her openness as a powerful statement against ageism, particularly in an industry that often sidelines women as they grow older. Others have applauded her for normalizing conversations around cosmetic surgery, especially for women of color, who have historically been excluded from such narratives.

Beyond the immediate questions about Paulina’s future, Jackée’s story has ignited broader discussions about aging in Hollywood. The pressures are relentless, and the choices are deeply personal. By framing her surgery as an act of self-care rather than conformity, Jackée has once again positioned herself as a trailblazer—someone unafraid to challenge expectations and redefine what empowerment looks like at any age.

As Days of Our Lives continues to unfold its latest storylines, one thing is certain: Paulina Price remains an integral part of Salem’s heartbeat, just as Jackée Harry remains an indelible force in television history. Whether her recovery results in a brief on-screen absence or a subtle narrative adjustment, fans can rest assured that Jackée’s return will be marked by the same charisma, strength, and unapologetic flair that have defined her career.

In the grand drama of daytime television, this moment is less about stepping away and more about stepping forward—into a new chapter of confidence, resilience, and self-determination. And if history has taught us anything, it’s that Jackée Harry doesn’t fade into the background. She commands the stage, on her own terms, every single time.