“Days of Our Lives” rings in 2026 with not one, but four cast members exiting the show.
The Peacock sudser is said to have some major changes ahead as it undergoes a huge cast shakeup. The Daily Mail reported that the show is letting go of its four younger actors, in what was described as a “bloodbath.”
“It was a New Year bloodbath at Days of Our Lives this month as the cast returned from a Christmas hiatus,” an insider told the outlet.
Who’s Leaving ‘Days of Our Lives’
The four actors who are reportedly leaving “Days of Our Lives” are Carson Boatman (Johnny), Raven Bowens (Chanel), Ashley Puzemis (Holly), and Leo Howard (Tate).
“‘Days’ decided they needed to switch things up,” the source told The Daily Mail. “All four actors were let go last week within a day of getting back from the show’s holiday hiatus. They were totally blindsided, especially Carson, who was in the middle of renegotiating a new contract.”
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for “DOOL” told Soap Opera Digest, “While we don’t comment on individual contracts or casting decisions, we have tremendous respect and appreciation for the actors who bring these characters to life. What may seem sudden is part of long-range storytelling decisions. Our goal is to balance the show’s rich history with where we’re headed creatively. Due to our long tape-to-air gap, any changes won’t be on screen for some time.”
What’s Next?
GettyDespite the surprise shakeup, viewers won’t see immediate changes. Since “Days of Our Lives” tapes roughly 10 months ahead, the four cast members’ departures are expected to play out on screen in late 2026 or early 2027.
So far, there’s been no official word on how the characters will be written out or if the roles will be recast.
Meanwhile, Boatman told The Daily Mail that he’s “incredibly grateful” for being part of “Days of Our Lives” for the past five years.
“I have nothing but love and respect for everyone over there from top to bottom,” he added. “The closing of this chapter is bittersweet for me as I’ve cherished every moment spent walking those halls and on the sound stages.
A lot of tears, and a lot of laughter have been spilled on all those sets by so many people, including myself. I am genuinely so excited to see what the future holds for me, as well as the show.”
Watch “Days of Our Lives” weekdays on Peacock.
