Salem is bracing for a major shake-up. Days of Our Lives is entering a period of dramatic transition, as a wave of high-profile exits collides with the return of some of

the show’s most beloved legacy characters. According to the latest casting updates, longtime fan favorites are being written out, while familiar faces from the past

are stepping back into the spotlight—setting the stage for emotional farewells, unresolved conflicts, and storylines that could redefine the canvas well into 2026.

With the Peacock soap’s famously advanced production schedule, viewers will continue to see departing characters on-screen for months to come. Still, the knowledge that several central players are on their way out adds a bittersweet edge to every scene they appear in, while the return of iconic characters injects a sense of nostalgia and renewed gravitas into Salem’s most personal stories.

Four Major Exits Signal a New Era

In one of the most surprising casting developments in recent years, Days of Our Lives has confirmed the exits of four prominent performers: Carson Boatman (Johnny DiMera), Raven Bowens (Chanel Dupree DiMera), Ashley Puzemis (Holly Jonas), and Leo Howard (Tate Black).

Boatman and Bowens, who joined the show in 2021, quickly became cornerstones of the younger generation, anchoring major DiMera-driven storylines and earning a devoted fan following. Their portrayal of Johnny and Chanel brought emotional complexity, romantic turbulence, and modern energy to the canvas. Ashley Puzemis, who debuted as Holly Jonas in 2023, and Leo Howard, who joined as Tate Black in 2024, further expanded the teen and young adult landscape, helping shape the next chapter of Salem’s future.

Although all four actors have been written out, viewers won’t see their final episodes immediately. Thanks to the show’s extended filming schedule, Johnny, Chanel, Holly, and Tate will remain part of ongoing storylines into 2026. This delayed exit allows writers time to craft meaningful conclusions—but it also casts a shadow over their current arcs, as fans now watch knowing these characters’ days are numbered.

The departures mark a significant recalibration of the show’s younger demographic and signal that Days is preparing for a tonal shift—one that leans more heavily into legacy characters and emotionally grounded storytelling.

Jack and Jennifer Return for a Pivotal Custody Battle

Balancing the sting of these exits is the return of two of Days of Our Lives’ most cherished icons. Matthew Ashford and Melissa Reeves reprise their legendary roles as Jack and Jennifer Deveraux, reuniting in Salem during the week of January 19, 2026.

Their return is anything but casual.

Jack and Jennifer arrive on Wednesday, January 21, for a critical meeting with Chad DiMera (Billy Flynn), as discussions surrounding the custody of Chad’s children reach a crucial turning point. The storyline promises emotional weight, history, and moral complexity, as Jack and Jennifer step in not just as parents, but as moral anchors in a situation shaped by grief, legacy, and responsibility.

Jennifer’s presence extends beyond the custody talks, with scenes opposite Chad continuing on Friday, January 23. The interactions are expected to revisit old wounds and long-standing connections, reminding viewers why Jack and Jennifer remain one of the show’s most enduring couples.

Familiar Faces Cycle Back Into Salem

In addition to these headline returns, the week brings a steady stream of familiar faces back to town, reinforcing Salem’s sense of continuity and shared history.

Joseph Ihlenf and Jordan Perdue appear as baby Trey, the adopted son of Johnny and Chanel. Trey is front and center during his christening on Monday, January 19, offering a tender, symbolic moment for the DiMera family—one made more poignant by the knowledge that Johnny and Chanel’s journey is approaching its end.

Miles Anderson returns as Foster, the former Salem bookshop owner, bringing wisdom and quiet reflection to scenes with Julie Williams (Susan Seaforth Hayes). Foster offers Julie heartfelt advice on Tuesday, January 20, and reappears on Wednesday, January 21, reinforcing the show’s tradition of using legacy characters to provide emotional grounding during times of upheaval.

Kennedy Garcia resurfaces as Felicity Greene, sharing deeply emotional scenes with her on-screen sister, Cat Greene (AnnaLynne McCord), on Wednesday, January 21. Their interaction continues to explore Felicity’s groundbreaking storyline, one that has resonated strongly with viewers for its sensitivity and authenticity.

Younger Generations Step Back Into Focus

While some younger characters exit, others return to keep Salem’s next generation alive and evolving.

Cary Christopher reprises his role as Thomas DiMera, appearing on Wednesday, January 21. In a touching moment, Thomas receives encouragement from Jeremy (Michael Roark), highlighting the show’s continued investment in its youngest characters as vessels for hope, healing, and the future.

Casey Moss returns as JJ Deveraux on Thursday, January 22, a comeback that longtime fans have eagerly anticipated. JJ’s return includes a reconnection with Theo Carver (Tyler Joseph Andrews), suggesting unfinished business, rekindled bonds, and possibly new directions for both characters.

Medical Drama and Lingering Threats

Medical and emotional tensions also rise this week as Kim Hawthorne reappears as Dr. Gregory, Rachel’s physician. Dr. Gregory intervenes during a heated altercation between Sophia (Rachel Boyd) and Holly (Ashley Puzemis), placing her squarely in the middle of escalating conflict and underscoring the fragile emotional state of Salem’s younger residents.

Meanwhile, Peter Porte continues his run as Dimitri Von Leuschner. On Tuesday, January 20, Dimitri is confronted by Gwen Rizczech (Emily O’Brien), a meeting that promises sharp dialogue and unresolved tension. Dimitri’s presence continues to add an element of unpredictability to Salem, as his motivations remain murky and his alliances unstable.

A City in Transition

Taken together, these comings and goings paint a clear picture: Days of Our Lives is in the midst of a deliberate transformation. The departure of several younger leads marks the end of one chapter, while the return of legacy characters signals a renewed focus on history, family, and long-term emotional storytelling.

As Salem says goodbye to some familiar faces and welcomes others home, the emotional stakes rise for every character left behind. Relationships will be tested, legacies reexamined, and the balance between past and future renegotiated.

For viewers, the coming weeks promise a blend of nostalgia and uncertainty—hallmarks of a soap opera unafraid to evolve. One thing is certain: with mass exits, beloved returns, and storylines that reach across generations, Days of Our Lives is reminding fans why Salem remains one of daytime television’s most enduring and emotionally resonant worlds.