Days Of Our Lives
Alison Sweeney Writes CNN Op-Ed Piece On Nujeen Mustafa And Realizing How Much Comfort & Escape DAYS Brings To The Reality Of The World!
Photo Credit: HutchinsPhoto.com
The story of super EJami fan, Nujeen Mustafa continues! The teenaged Syrian refuge who has cerebral palsy and is wheelchair bound, has become an inspiration for so many by making it all the way to Germany for safe haven. But what everyone learned along the way is that Nujeen is also a big fan of Days of our Lives and was devastated over the “death” of EJ DiMera (James Scott)
After reunting on late night TV for Nujeen and then making a phone call to her, clearly both Alison Sweeney (Sami) and James Scott were moved by this young girl’s story. Now, Sweeney has taken to CNN.com to post an op-ed story entitled: Why Nujeen Mustafa Inspires Us All. Meanwhile, Sweeney is set to return to the NBC soap opera on-air next week.
Contained within Sweeney’s post are words about the power of DAYS: “In 1993, when I joined the cast, I met people on the street. Fans would share how they grew up watching the show with their parents or grandparents. Kids who were named after main characters on the show would share how their own stories helped them through tough times in school or through the loss of a loved one. But what I didn’t realize was the extent to which the show provided comfort and an escape from reality around the world. I didn’t truly comprehend the impact of the show until the producers of John Oliver’s HBO show approached James Scott (who played EJ) and me to ask if we could reunite for a special scene just for Nujeen. I had been trying to get in touch with the journalist who interviewed Nujeen because I wanted to make contact with the brave young girl, so this opportunity was perfect. Oliver’s producers wanted to offer insights on the humanity behind a politicized struggle. I loved the piece but never anticipated the flood of response. So many news outlets recounted Nujeen’s story and the scene we played out for her. It clearly sparked something in a lot of people.”
Courtesy/YouTube
Alison also added: “Nujeen has profoundly affected my life. As the mother of two young children, I cannot fathom the struggles she has faced in her short lifetime. She told me that when she was sad or scared, watching ‘Days’ would always brighten her. I cannot begin to imagine what those words mean to someone in her shoes. She had me laughing about how angry and emotional my character often was and promised that even though she was going to have to watch a new show to learn German, ‘Days’ would always be her favorite.”
So this begs the question: How has DAYS affected your life? Has it provided you comfort, solace, and escape throughout its 50-year run? And what did you think of Alison’s piece for CNN on the perserverance of Nujeen? Share your thoughts below!
Days Of Our Lives
Sydney Malekeh Joins the Cast of ‘Days of Our Lives’ in Mystery Role: Who Do You Think She’s Playing?
There’s a new gal coming to Salem, or is she new and a recast? That’s what inquiring minds from Days of Our Lives fans have been trying to figure out since the Peacock soap opera dropped an Instagram video heralding actress‘ Sydney Malekeh’s arrival in Salem.
The soap did confirm that viewers will first see Malekeh on the September 9 episode. In the video, Malekeh is seen going set to set from her dressing room and in to the halls of Days of Our Lives studios.
What we do know id that Sydney has been acting professionally for 6 years and had appeared on Grey’s Anatomy, Apple TV’s Shrinking and the HBO Max’s The Sex Lives of College Girls.
Plenty of Malekeh’s DAYS castmates jumped into the comment thread with positive emojis symbols or written excitement including: Paul Telfer (Xander), Linsey Godfrey (Sarah), Sal Stowers (Lani), Conner Floyd (Chad), Eric Martsolf (Brady) and Christie Clark (Carrie) and more now that fans will finally see her on-air. Since Days of Our Lives tapes 10-11 months in advance, Sydney would have started taping the show sometime back in 2025.
DAYS fans think perhaps because the actress’ name is Sydney that she might be playing the grown-up daughter of Sami and EJ. That character hasn’t bee on the canvas since 2021.
So, who do you think Sydney Malekeh might be playing on Days of Our Lives? Drop your casting director thoughts via the comment section below.
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Days Of Our Lives
Peacock Hikes Subscription Rates for Fourth Time in Four Years; ‘Days of Our Lives’ Fans Sound Off
While recently the streaming service Peacock reported turning a profit for its first time since its infancy, now comes word that the company is raising their prices for all customers, and in some cases it stared today on August 18.
The news of the subscription rate increases marks the fourth time the NBCUniversal streaming platform has done so in four years. So, on August 18, Peacock is increasing the prices for new or returning subscribers and customers, while current subscribers will see the rate increase on or after September 17 depending on their billing cycle when they initially signed up.
Here is the new pricing to follow along: Peacock Premium (which includes ads) will be $12.99/month, up two dollars from $10.99; Peacock Premium Plus will be $19.99/month, up three dollars increase from $16.99; and the Peacock Select tier (which includes current and past seasons of NBC and Bravo shows but excludes movies, live sports and Peacock originals) will increase a dollar from $7.99 to $8.99/month.
Photo: JPI
SUBSCRIBERS CONTINUE TO PAY MORE ACROSS THE STREAMER LANDSCAPE
It was back in June that the streamer reported that aid subscribers were up to 48 million adding a 2 million net gain during Q2 in of 2026. The subscription price hikes are rampant now in the entertainment streaming industry where over the last two years for example, Netflix, HBO Max, Apple TV, Paramount+ have all raised their fees to consumers.
Peacock’s tier-levels feature not only Days of Our Lives, but reality hits such as The Traitors and Love Island USA, Bravo series, and a vault of Saturday Night Live, Law & Order, The Real Housewives franchise, and Below Deck episodes as well. Pecock Premium and Premium Plus subscribers have access to sports and live events, as well.
DAYS OF OUR LIVES SUBSCRIBERS HAD A FEW CHOICE WORDS FOR PEACOCK
As Days of Our Lives fans know, the soap opera moved from NBC to the streamer back in September of 2022 after 57 years on broadcast television. When the news hit X on the price increase, DAYS fans had a lot to say about it. Here are just a few of the comments below:
“I can’t believe Peacock and can’t come to a deal with Cordya to air old episodes of #Days. That alone would bring a ton of subscribers,” to If Peacock actually cared about #Days of Our Lives, gave the show the budget it needs for better sets, cameras, background actors and enough time to tell proper stories, I wouldn’t mind paying more. If the money actually showed on screen, the higher price would be worth it,” to “I will continue to pay for a Peacock subscription as long as #Days is on it, but did we know there was another price increase coming?” and more.
So, what do you think of the new price hike increase to watch Days of Our Lives and your other favorite shows and events on Peacock? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
Days Of Our Lives
‘Veronica & Julian’ Feature Starring ‘Days of Our Lives’ Alums Nadia Bjorlin and Kyler Pettis Releases Key Art and More (Exclusive)
In the upcoming indie feature Veronica & Julian from director Otoja Abit, two former Days of Our Lives stars, Nadia Bjorlin (ex-Chloe Lane) and Kyler Pettis (ex-Theo Carver), headline the drama feature in this story of a May-December romance that faces challenges along the way.
Veronica & Julian centers on a confident and successful marketing executive (Bjorlin) who winds up falling for a younger aspiring architect (Pettis). From there, a journey of desire and self-discovery is set against the backdrop of present-day New York City.
The cast also includes: Blake Jenner (ex-Glee), Erin Cummings, Chrystee Pharris (ex-Simone Russell, Passions and Queens of Drama), Robert Lee Leng, Mark Famiglietti and Jennafer Newberry.
Photo:
LIVE CHAT WITH NADIA AND KYLER PLANNED
Now, Michael Fairman TV can share exclusively: the key poster art below, and that current plans that call for Veronica & Julian to be released and made available late this holiday season.
In addition, Nadia and Kyler will join us for a very special livestream conversation on the Michael Fairman Channel (Monday, Aug 24 – 3PM ET/Noon PT) to chat about their roles in the film, their time on Days of Our Lives, life post-soap opera, and much more. Fans can join the live chat and pose their questions to the actors as well.
Courtesy/Bright Leicht Content LLC
THE THEMES BEHIND VERONICA & JULIAN
Director Otoja Abit shared this statement on the feature film, “Veronica & Julian is about the right people who have a chance meeting at the wrong time. It’s a look at two people who don’t grow apart—they just grow up. This film is an authentic exploration of an imminent ending and how two people deeply in love got there. It aims to be quiet while telling a relatable story about modern-day relationships.”
Abit continued, “As a society, mainstream romantic films are often delivered through fantastical aspirations. I created this film believing that viewers who have experienced a breakup can relate to Veronica and Julian, depending on their perspective. They’re a couple navigating some of the most familiar obstacles in love: miscommunication, timing and pride.”
He concluded, “It’s a story about endings told through the small moments we often don’t recognize until they’re gone. With the support of the Panavision New Filmmaker Program, I approached the story with a deeper sense of visual control while maintaining the naturalism that defines each character.”
Photo: Bright Leicht Content LLC
NADIA AND KYLER GOT THEIR FIRST BIG BREAK IN SOAPS
As Days of Our Lives fans know, Bjorlin is best known for her long-running role as Chloe Lane. Nadia played the part from 1999-2023 with various runs in Salem. She is also known for her role as Lara in the Venice the Series since 2009. Nadia’s other TV and film credits include: A Murder Between Friends, NCIS, Two Broke Girls and more.
Pettis played Theo Carver on Days of Our Lives from 2015-2018 and earned himself a Daytime Emmy for his work in the now defunct Outstanding Younger Actor in a Daytime Drama Series back in 2019. His other TV credits include roles on: The Rookie, All American: Homecoming and Ray Donovan.
Veronica and Julian is written, produced and directed by Abit and produced through his Willful Productions alongside Kory Apton and Ian Phillips. Executive producers include: Nick Leicht, Gregory Sinche, Shelly Sinche, Torsten Sippel, Tim Freydberg, Ryan Schulke and Matthew Conlin.
So, intrigued to see Nadia and Kyler as a romantic couple in the film Veronica & Julian? Miss them on Days of Our Lives? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL Preview: Kelly Sullivan Debuts as Dylan’s Mom; Suspicion is Raised About Carter and Steffy
‘Beyond the Gates’ Star Mike Manning Lands Role in Indie Horror Feature ‘Deify’
GH and OLTL Alum Patrick J. Gibbons Reveals the Story Behind Writing Trina’s Song on ‘General Hospital’ (Exclusive)
‘Guiding Light’s’ Grant Aleksander Shares Heartfelt Remembrance of TV Daughter, Hayden Panettiere On What Would Have Been Her 37th Birthday
Sydney Malekeh Joins the Cast of ‘Days of Our Lives’ in Mystery Role: Who Do You Think She’s Playing?
‘General Hospital’s’ Maurice Benard Talks: New ‘Sonny’ Storyline, His Contract, and Three Characters He Would Want to See Back in Port Charles
How John Oliver’s ‘Days of Our Lives’ Guest Star Turn as ‘Devlin St. John’ Came to an End
John Oliver Recaps His ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘General Hospital’ Soap Opera Experience on ‘Last Week Tonight’
‘Veronica & Julian’ Feature Starring ‘Days of Our Lives’ Alums Nadia Bjorlin and Kyler Pettis Releases Key Art and More (Exclusive)
‘General Hospital’ Alum Bryan Craig Cast in ‘The Weapon’
‘Guiding Light’s’ Grant Aleksander Shares Heartfelt Remembrance of TV Daughter, Hayden Panettiere On What Would Have Been Her 37th Birthday
‘General Hospital’ Alum Chad Duell Admits That He Didn’t Expect the Role of Michael Corinthos to be Recast, and Would Consider Working on Another Soap (Exclusive)
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Ric’s History of Jealousy Where Elizabeth is Concerned Has Come Back Around
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL: Steffy and Carter Get Lame Excuses From Their Spouses, and Try to Shake Off Their Night Together
‘Veronica & Julian’ Feature Starring ‘Days of Our Lives’ Alums Nadia Bjorlin and Kyler Pettis Releases Key Art and More (Exclusive)
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All the daytime dramas provide entertainment and escapism from a very stressful and difficult real world. They also provide continuity in an ever changing world. Viewers develop genuine affection for characters and the history of their shows. People want to be entertained. Too bad the very arrogant former president of daytime programming for a pitiful rival organization didn’t know that.
Alison is amazing. Such a great heart. I grew up watching with my babysitter.
I have just loved following this story. Allison’s piece on CNN.com reminded me how much soaps have impacted my life. From Dark Shadows to today’s remaining four, they have given me so much comfort & joy, and every emotion in between. Coincidentally, (or not so coincidentally) all 3 of my kids share their names with OLTL characters. I know times change and nothing in life is permanent, but I wish DOOL 50 more great years! I’m loving it!
Best wishes to Nujeen on her journey. She has reminded me to appreciate life’s blessings.
With all the bad news transpiring in the world leaving me feeling disheartened by my fellow man, stories like this really inject a sense of hope and optimism into my sense of humanity.
I never get tired of this story. Now I am a huge Allison Sweeney fan as well as a NuJeen fan.
Huge Steve Kayla fan. Hope we are not reverting back to just the Same hour. It’s been better lately don’t go back!
Typo sami hour was meant.
Count me also has a huge Kayla and Steve fan! Keep up the good work, Days!
Days was a great source of diversion during my college years when I was struggling to make decisions about a major or even whether or not I was even in the right school! The main storyline during that time was Marlena in the sanitarium because her twin sister Samantha has placed her there and stolen her identity. Whenever Deidre Hall would scream it would seem like she was screaming for me and my frustration.
The other main storyline during that time was Marlena’s impending wedding to Don Craig and her struggles with his daughter Donna. When Don Craig fell off the ledge and Laura Horton had to hold Marlena down to keep her from going out the window after him, I was probably screaming too! Hard to remember after all those years, but I do know Days was tied to my emotions during that period of time.
Eventually I became so concerned about me watching the show that I quit watching cold turkey. I was very concerned about being hooked on the show. So I stopped watching. So I missed a lot of of storylines like the Patch and Kaylah love story and the adventures of Jennifer Horton and her eventual marriage to Jack.
From time to time I would see an episode here and there especially if it involved a character I was familiar with, but it was a long time before I started watching again. When I did, Nicole was married to Victor and scheming to get Brady!
Eventually I stopped watching again because I didn’t like whatever storyline they were doing. But obviously I came back.
I missed a good deal of the 1980s and 1990s. Looks like I’m back for good. Glad they are still on the air.
God bless Nujeen. Soaps in general have always been a part of my life. My grandmothers watched them. I remember the tornado on ATWT that injured Kim. I remember Renata on SFT giving birth to a baby in a burning building as David was forced to choose which one he was going to save. I thought Alan Spaulding, John Dixon, and Stefano were the most evil men on Earth (until Bradley Raines came along). I thought Rachel Cory was an angel. I watched Katherine get a face lift on live TV. I thought Dr. Miles Cavanaugh (EON) was the most handsome man on the planet. I wanted to honeymoon at Cross Creek. I longed have cocktails with H.B. and Henry on the porch at the Lewis homestead. I watched my beloved grandmother’s jaw drop when Reva jumped into the fountain and announced she was “the slut of Springfield!!”. Yes, soaps are part of my life. They’ve been with me through breakups, loss, triumph, deaths, snow storms, maternity leave, illness, hospital visits, caregiving, housecleaning, boredom, layoffs, rainy vacations, etc. May they continue forever.
Ron C wrote a great monologue for Vicki, B on the 2nd to last eapisode of OLTL.. the Monologue explained why people may like a Soap and what it means in their lives. Watch it, its great.
Yes, it was very moving, quite memorable, and relatable. Ron C. at his best.
Allison Sweeney and James Scott are the characters on Days of Our Lives that gave hope and inspiration to people around the world! Just like Nujeen grasped what was so real in the story line to the viewers, the human will of love to survive. In the story line, their characters overcame tragedies, disappointments, grief, families against them, and overwhelming odds, yet kept their passion and hope for love alive. In real life they they rose above bad writing and disrespect for their acting genius. These two are a once in a lifetime phenomenon that transcended all types of odds that worked against their success. They are the best talent of this century. Individually they are great, together they are mind blowing!!! Their message of love and perseverance is so real and strong it gives people hope. I didn’t even watch the soap, I only watched these two in their scenes that they made come alive. I wish Nujeen luck in finding a show that will teach her English and I pray they give her a DVD of her favorite characters that gave her hope for love in this world. This hope was given in a most inconceivable way but love triumphs over all odds. Thank you James Scott and Allison Sweeney for your unsurpassed talent and the hope it has inspired in people around the world! I feel privileged to have experienced such remarkable talent! It is so humbling to know there is such a kindred spirit in Nujeen! My Dad says “A problem is only an opportunity”….. may some movie producer give these two the opportunity to spread more hope and love.
The story of Nujeen Mustafa is one that is sweet, beautiful, inspiring and sad! That is what DOOL has been to me over the years! My mother got me hooked on the show. She first started watching it on maternity leave with me 50 years ago. I began watching it regularly when I was 11 years old. I remember when Mary Anderson and Chris Kositchek had a thing for each other, Marlena and Don were together and my second favorite to EJ and Sami —-Liz and Neil! What ever happened to them? Thank God for VCR, and now DVR! During my pregnancy with my now 14 year old daughter it helped me with the fear of my daughter being switched in the pediatric ward while Hope was going through it! Funny isn’t it! But it allowed me to discuss my fears with the hospital staff and opened the eyes of others about the safety in a hospital. And when my daughter was growing inside me I decided I wanted her to be smart, beautiful and independent and one who could handle anything thrown at her so I decided to name her Samantha. Samantha J. But her middle name is Jacklyn! She is everything I have dreamt she would be and so much more! She is 14 now and a freshman cheerleader. She is outgoing, smart, witty, alive like there is no tomorrow, and so beautiful, sweet and she never stops amazing me! Thank you Alison! And to DOOL, thank you! I will watch it forever! BTW, I keep the 6 episodes surrounding your departure for the times when I need a good cry, or to be inspired by friendship and caring during hard times like when Kate and Nicole were there for your during your loss. DOOL takes us all to another place when we need it! I will be forever grateful!
Been watching Days od Our Lives off and on almost 50 years.Sometimes get busy wont see if for awhile but tune in and know most of the characters so right back in the groove in no time. Would like to see more of Steve and Kayla Marlena and John and by the way Steve an Kaya are best friends of years in real life. Its the only soap I watch comes on right after lunch. Convenient