As a new week unfolds in Salem, Days of Our Lives viewers are buzzing with questions about which familiar faces will return on screen, and whether any characters are saying goodbye. Here’s a complete look at who’s leaving and who’s returning to the long-running NBC soap during the week of January 5–9.
List of everyone who is joining and leaving Days of Our Lives’ cast from January 5-9
Who’s Joining:
Judi Evans (Bonnie Lockhart Kiriakis):
Judi Evans has been noticeably missing from Salem since October 2025, but fans won’t have to wait much longer to see Bonnie again. Later this week, the character will be resurfaced in scenes opposite Lauren Koslow, who plays Kate.
Conner Floyd (Chad DiMera):
Conner Floyd stepped into the role of Chad DiMera last summer after Billy Flynn exited the part. Although Floyd has already been filming for months, the show’s extended production schedule means Flynn has continued to appear on screen.
That’s set to change soon, as Floyd’s first official appearance as Chad is now confirmed for April. Teasing the moment, the actor shared an Instagram story with the message, “See y’all in April.”
Peter Porte (Dimitri Von Leuschner):
Peter Porte officially reprised his role as Dimitri Von Leuschner on January 2. The actor will be seen multiple times throughout the week as Dimitri works to reinsert himself into life in Salem.
Who’s Leaving
Bryan R. Dattilo (Lucas Horton):
Bryan R. Dattilo, who first brought Lucas Horton to life in 1993 and remains a longtime fan favorite, concluded his most recent run on the series last week. While his latest appearance has come to an end, the storyline leaves ample room for a future return.
Billy Flynn (Chad DiMera):
Billy Flynn, who is currently appearing simultaneously on Days of Our Lives and The Young and the Restless as Cane Ashby, is set to formally wrap up his time in Salem in April.
Alice Halsey (Rachel Black):
Alice Halsey completed her filming on Days of Our Lives last year after being cast as Laura Ingalls in Netflix’s upcoming remake of Little House on the Prairie. A new actress will assume the role of Rachel Black, with her first on-screen appearance scheduled for March.
Marissa Reyes (Ari Horton):
Similarly, the role of Ari Horton has also undergone a recast. A new performer will step into the part beginning in March, following Marissa Reyes’ debut as Ari in May 2025.
It is probable that they’ll leave this week, but could return for a few appearances until their tenure ends in the coming months.
(via Soap Opera Digest)
