If you talk to any longtime “Days of Our Lives” fan, one name inevitably comes up: the late Stefano DiMera. He was played to perfection by Joseph Mascolo, who passed away in 2016. Despite years off the canvas, the character’s name is mentioned in nearly every new episode.
Dan Feuerriegel plays Stefano’s son, EJ DiMera, and he recently chatted with Soaps.com about the always-present legacy of Stefano.
Stefano Is the DiMera Legacy
GettyDan pointed out that Stefano’s presence is alive and well even on the DiMera mansion set. EJ’s father’s painting hangs above the fireplace, and he often goes to talk to it as if the character were still alive. He still is a significant part of the family, “that is the DiMera legacy, and that’s what EJ is trying to keep alive,” explains the actor. “It is of the utmost importance, because if you think about it, if there was no Stefano, what would the DiMeras be? Nothing. They wouldn’t be the DiMeras.”
Being one of Stefano’s children certainly isn’t an easy position to hold in Salem. “It’s a part of his life, and he so fully believes in the family legacy that it is what it is. It is DiMera,” explains Feuerriegel.
While many would consider being part of the family quite the cross to bear, the actor disagrees.
“It’s not a burden at all. Legacy is important. Obviously, EJ talks about how hard it was sometimes growing up underneath Stefano, but it made him the man that he is today. Not very well-liked, but it’s made him the man that he is today.”
Could Stefano Ever Be Recast?
GettyChatter about a possible recast for the legendary character began earlier this summer. Joseph Mascolo’s run as the disturbed Stefano lasted for almost 35 years. Could the powers-that-be be ready to bring the villain back in the flesh? Is nearly ten years away long enough for the savvy Days audience to even consider accepting a new actor in the role? Or does Stefano DiMera begin and end with Mascolo?
Whether the character rests eternally or springs back to life in some way, the Phoenix always rises. Even if he never takes another breath, Stefano will likely continue to be mentioned amongst Salem’s residents forevermore.
Would you like to see “Days of Our Lives” find a way to bring the character back, or should he be mentioned, but never seen again?
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