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Days Of Our Lives

DAYS Casey Moss Delivers Poignant and Evocative Performance As JJ Contemplates Ending His Life

By Michael Fairman

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Photo Credit: JPI Studios

In one of the most riveting performances and episodes of the soaps in 2017, Days of our Lives’  Casey Moss (JJ) was front and center, and had the opportunity to show his depth as an actor, while delivering a powerful message to the audience, and in an issue that faces many people who spiral down the depths of depression, and have lost all hope.

This is juxtaposed against Christmas Eve in Salem when families come together and celebrate, while JJ’s sorrow provides the drama.

The Wednesday installment of the NBC daytime drama series was a perfecty crafted standalone episode from head writer, Ron Carlivati, where the viewers watch JJ decide to end his life, and look on as he goes through the steps he feels he must take to prepare for his own demise.  This included writing heart-breaking letters to his loved ones, and of course, to the young man he shot, Theo (Kyler Pettis) and his grieving father, Abe (James Reynolds).  Each move of JJ’s inner torment played to perfection by Moss, took the audience on a gut-wrenching journey.

Throughout, JJ flashes back on his life and reflects on when he was younger and key moments in his relationship with his mother, Jennifer (Melissa Reeves), and his father, Jack. Viewers were treated to a return by Matthew Ashford, who reminded us all of why we love Jack Deveraux.

Photo Credit: JPI Studios

In the story, at first disheveled from his overriding depression and guilt,  JJ  decides to take a shower and shave before his final steps in his plan.  He lays out and then puts on his police dress uniform. as he continues to organize this thoughts through his agony.

When JJ writes his suicide note to Theo, he begins: “Dear Theo, I said I wanted you to have all the things you wanted, and now you have nothing, because of me. I’ve come to see that I can only pay for taking your life by taking my own, so I’m going out to the square, to the same place where I shot you, with the same gun, and maybe, in some small way, it will help balance out the universe …  make up for what I took from you.  I have left something to everyone else I love, but I have nothing to give you…except my life.”  After signing the letter, JJ seals the envelope, and write “Theo” on the front, and adds it to the pile, which included a hankie-inducing letter to his mother.

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When he writes his goodbye letter to Abe, JJ pens: “Dear Abe, how do I say I’m sorry for something that is unforgivable, especially when it was you who first made me understand just what this badge means.”  Taking a moment, JJ recalls the day via a flashback that Abe encouraged him to apply to the police academy. JJ continues writing: “I saw how angry you were when I got it back. You thought it was dead wrong, and I think you were right, so I’m giving it back to you.”  JJ seals his letter to Abe in an envelope, and adds his police badge on top of it.

As the episode nears its conclusion, and after finishing all his letters, and with the stack of envelopes in front of him, JJ pulls out a gun from his desk drawer and inserts the clip, and seems ready to end his life.

So, what did you think of the performance by Casey Moss? What did you think about the construction of the episode, and how it played out? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

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I like JJ. Have since he returned and was a thorn in his mother Jennifer’s side. There has been an arc with JJ and I appreciate it. Suicide is a major issue in our society and good for DAYS to tackle it. I appreciate a human story apart from crazy resurrections and endless repetitive love games. This story has been moving to me. Thank you.

How true, Iacovos!- JJ has been a prime example how youth can turn its life around. Yes, he was a vey stinging thorn in his mother’s side……he slew his demons, as it were…..not permanently slain, I guess.
He feels so much guilt, I don’t know if anyone could ever come out of that—especially if Theo does not wake-up….such a compelling story. I cried!!
I was so impressed by the scene……how methodically, almost lovingly, as macabre as it sounds, he sought to the future of those he loves, by endieng his life…..a life for a life? Very poignant.
Such a sensitive, mourning-worthy social issue!!!!!!!! Not only is Casey hot, he has really proven his worth as an actor. Someone will stop him, at the eleventh hour, yes?!?!?!?!…..I hope so!!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New year, my friend.

Ending….

Ron C. continues to impress me with his great writing. Instead of introducing new characters he is using the entire cast in various storylines. This gives Casey a time to shine at his best, but the whole cast has been wonderful. It just proves, give good writing and the actors will shine. I stopped watching DOOL for a number of years because the writing was awful and the acting to me was just not good. But wow, what a change in the show now and the actors have really stepped up. I see alot of Emmy noms. next year. DOOL has become the soap to watch, and I am a long time GH viewer. Applause to Ron C. who deserves so much credit for turning Days around to a must watch soap now.

Casey deserves a Emmy as well as the show for best drama. This storyline is riveting. I’m glad this story is being told. Kudos Ron Carlivati and the writing team. Also Kudos to Casey for a heartfelt performance.

I agree that Casey Moss deserves an Emmy – I have been watching Days for over 40 yrs and he brought me to tears – I have never seen such great acting from someone so young. I am 59 and watched Days for along time, Casey – you brought me to tears. i LOVE all the actors on DAYS – but JJ your pulled it off,

shucks… per your words – ” i LOVE all the actors on DAYS ”

it’s a marvel to watch writing and acting so in sync with each other. dang it !

it’s been a dream to tune in

i’m about a week behind… can’t wait to see the new DiMera.. played by Tyler Christopher… WITH his onscreen mother… Vivian Alamaine… played by the grand dame of all … OK I know there are plenty others… she’s in the top echelon… Louise Sorel

YES

blast off

again… @ DAYS

Casey Moss deserves an Emmy for this episode. So great of Ron C. to write and focus on Casey and JJ, he’s such a great and underrated talent.

I hate seeing JJ go through this, especially when he’s not at fault, he was only doing his job and protecting himself!

It was an absolutely heartbreaking episode to watch. Poor JJ is such a tragic figure. Casey Moss did an excellent job. When given powerful material, he delivers.

I attempted suicide in my younger years the last time nearly 20 years ago so watching someone contemplating suicide is a bit uncomfortable even if it is just a soap and knowing JJ really wont go all the way-brings back so many bad memories…CM is doing a fine job in his role-i smell an emmy nomination!!!!

….Proud of you, Jimmy. You are a conqueror, you know that?? Bless you.

Love Robin, Jimmy….but, can you imagine if the mom, mysteriously, turns out to be Vivian? Can’t beat that!!

To be honest, I found it to be overly drawn out and difficult to watch (albeit well acted) while watching what, I guess, were supposed to be “older scenes” re-enacted (I don’t know for sure, have only been watching since 2013) – I understand that JJ is upset, but it seemed ultra-melodramatic to me.
I certainly do understand however, how people can spiral downward into a depressed state that seems insurmountable and was glad that there was a full panel displayed for The Suicide Prevention League.

Those scenes were recently created. As far as I can remember, Jack was already dead when JJ, in the form of Casey, returned to Salem.

I don’t know if it was difficult to watch, but not really interesting/entertaining, but maybe it wasn’t supposed to be. Some of it was sad, the letter he wrote to Theo saying he’s giving his life for Theo.

Why didn’t the Salem PD get JJ into counseling?

Outstanding stuff! I could watch Casey Moss all day. We’ll leave it at that…

You bet, James……so much good stuff on Days…..
….heard through the grapevine that Tyler Christoper will be playing another one Stefano’ s long lost sons….his name is Stefan O. DiMera…..So very clever, that. Can’t wait for the mayhem to begin at chez DiMera’s, James….everyone vying for number one rooster-son in the great, vast mansion. Can’t you just hear the echoing of angry voices bouncing off the walls? LOL….Love it!!

Thanks for your reply, Celia! You’re absolutely right. Interesting stuff about Tyler. It’s so refreshing to see DOOL firing on all cylinders again. “echoing of angry voices bouncing off the walls” — hysterical! Take care, Friend. 🙂

If true i hope Lee turns out to be his mom and played by Robin Strasser

Agree completely. I did enjoy his youthful persona as a dedicated irritant to Dr. Dan. (Loved it when he broke Jonas’ expensive toys.) However, both his character and himself as an actor seem to have grown into an interesting 3-dimensional troubadour/protector.

I was surprised that this episode did not portray JJ giving away his treasured guitar to someone. (Perhaps I missed the guitar getting buried with Page?)

Gotta say, JJ’s bearded, unkempt rakish troubled period gave him a fleshed-out much more grown-up appearance, making a more interesting person that we’d like to learn more about.

I’d like to see his cousin Eric provide him with genuine priestly guidance to abandon his police job, for which he is unsuited. Rather than taking his life, a much better path to assuage his guilt and atone for his misdeed would be re-dedicating that life to the difficult task of long-term truly helping those in need.

Eric and JJ aren’t cousins or related in any way, ChandlerFan. Eric’s parents are Roman Brady and Marlena (Evans) Brady Black. JJ’s parents are Jack (AKA Billy Johnson) Deveraux and Jennifer (Horton) Deveraux.

Thanks for your reply, ChandlerFan!

So glad you are a MossFan, too! You make some great points about his growth as an actor as well as the character’s development. I also enjoyed JJ’s interactions with Dr. Dan. Take care, Friend!

Casey’s performance was excellent <I really felt bad for him made me cry.I don;t know how he did it, he may need therapy after that great performance. I hope the episode helped alot of people. Now Theo needs to come out of the coma so his dad won't be so mean' and I understand why he is.

Kudos Casey Moss…Ron Carlivati…and all the actors in this truly amazing episode!!!

Personally, didn’t totally enjoy it, but I understand where they were going with it. I guess today’s ep will take up where this one left off.

An amazing 2 day performance by Casey. Suicide during the holoday’s Is becoming more common, especially among law enforcement and the military. Emmy worthy performance….

JJ s been my favorite character since he showed up with an axe to grind in Salem
Im glad Rons writing for Jj and bringing him back to his best storyline since the time he tore up the square when he had uncovered that Jack had raped kayla
Casey s the next leading man on Days

He needs a partner comparable to his acting and Sal Stowers is not it.

I haven’t seen so much heated energies light up my telee… since Chad and Gabs

JJ and Lani are WOW… I enjoy this twosome. the natural sensuality between these two is smitten

Sal Stowers has proven to be GOOD for this show and good for Abe Carver family. PLUS she has shown good work as an employee of SPD AND as a daughter to Abe, and sister to Theo…. SO .. i’d say Sal Stowers is across the board melding quite nicely with the whole production.

I don’t know what to think… is she preggers from Eli or JJ ? haven’t watched this part yet… or is this rumour mill fodder

either way… I hope JJ and Lani find their way back.

Casey’s performance was exceptional and so real to life. It showed the audience exactly what the monster of depression can do to people. I think Casey deserves an award for his performance.

Does anyone know who the ep’s script writer and/or breakdown writer is?

All I know is this is my mom’s show, and I’ve been helping her through my dad’s death. She was watching Days daily, which she has done since before I was born, and I noticed the Theo shooting story. Now I’m hooked plus holidays are always something to tune in for on Days, whether story is good or not. This standalone ep had me mesmerized. It is unlike anything I’ve seen on DT in ages. I know Days has some excellent Classic writers going back to the 80s and 90s, and it could be any one of them. I’m sure we’ll find out when award season comes along, hopefully, but I need a little instant gratification.

Very good story line – need it during the Holidays

I have watched Days for over 40 yrs and I was in tears over Casey’s performance – I was in tears and Gabi’s actress helped me. I saw Gabi save the day!!! I knew she would dave JJ. Too bad for Lani though – she thinks that JJ slept with Gabi – There goes the SOAP!!

The kid has stepped up to match the good writing. This is great soap opera.

Dec. 20th episode was a great powerful show j j did a great job glad days devoted the time on the subject (depression) Dec 21st with j j and Gabi was a tearjerker I think at one time or another as gone through depression it’s a part of Life some people pull throw and some don’t

Casey and James Reynolds deserve Emmy nominations.

Liked very much sad but Casey hit out the park it was nice seeing Matthew Ashford again I wish stay on for good . Only issue I had no Steve and Adrienne they are JJ family too

Stunning. Just watched it. Ron reversed the flashback tool from folks laughing on a sofa to a real day problem.

At first I did not like JJ at all but now I feel for the guy what was he suppose to do he thought that Teo had a gun so he had to protect himself.Abe son isn’t no angel here.As one who suffers from anxieties and depression I know how he felt.Some days you just feel like giving up.While I never came close to suicide I have thought about it ,but I am to chicken to die,Well back to the show enough about me,Casey did an excellent job I could really feel his pain.I am so glad that Abby stopped him I wonder what Abe will say when he finds out that JJ tried to kill himself.Maybe he will lighten up on JJ.Hey didnt Teo hack into something?Well isnt that illegal? Why is Abe overlooking that?

ABOUT – the only time I think Abe.. may have … got side tracked. was when he was at the SPD with Rafe and JJ… as they read the report… from INTERNAL AFFAIRS … and JJ was found “not guilty”

sorry.. lack of a better term…

Abe flying between being the father of.. and his upholding the law… and his relationship with JJ

I thought Abe emotions got the best of him… did you watch the scenes between him and Jennifer… as she pleaded with him for understanding

any way… the 12 /25 episode of miracle.. happened

it’s going to be a tearful reunion for the Horton and Carver familial.

PROP : I was so taken with Doug and Julie in Theo room… with Abe and Valerie by his bedside… as they asked Abe to come to the Horton gathering…

Abe : to Doug and Julie.. that he was uninviting himself this year. he wasn’t going to pretend what happened.

it just cut some

steller stuff from the whole production

Casey Moss not only deserves an Emmy, but an Oscar as well.

What motion picture was he in to deserve an Oscar?

Once Upon a Time in Salem.

I congratulate all involved with this storyline! Suicide is an all too common issue that people face on a daily basis, especially at this time of year. And while the majority of those thinking of suicide didn’t have the circumstances that JJ did, they face real struggles. This story is timely and very important. I am glad to see DOOL address this in such a gripping way, a way that is sure to garner a lot of attention and hopefully save lives. All those involved, especially Casey have been doing a remarkable job. It has truly been the most moving story I’ve seen in many years on soaps. Blessings to those who are facing suicidal thoughts. May they find what they need to work their way through to a happier, healthier life.

As someone who has struggled mightily with depression my whole life, I could not be more impressed with the writing and the performance by Casey Moss. If he does not win the Emmy, it will be nothing short of highway robbery. I was touched deeply, as I’m sure were others…those of us who have been there know a better job could not have been done. Simply outstanding. Thank you, Casey.

Casey Moss delivered!!!! Great episode

Excellent writing by Ron and bravo to delivering a fantastic performance Casey, of a man contemplating and planning to end his life. Emmy worthy for sure!!!

Breaking News

53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards Presenters Announced

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Daytime Emmy Presenters

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) revealed on Thursday, the lineup of presenters for 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards taking place on Friday, October 30, 2026, at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, California.

The ceremony will stream live on the NATAS YouTube channel at YouTube.com/@theemmys and watch.TheEmmys.tv.

Scheduled to present from the current soaps are: Katelyn MacMullen (Willow, General Hospital), Delon de Metz (Zende, The Bold and the Beautiful), James Preston (Nick, The Bay), Paul Telfer (Xander, Days of our Lives), Tamara Tunie (Anita, Beyond the Gates) and Susan Walters (Diane, The Young and the Restless).

Genie Francis

Photo: NATAS

In addition soap alums, Crystal Chappell, Lesli Kay, Joe Lando, Eva LaRue, who is also a nominee this year,  A Martinez, Juliet Mills, and Alicia Leigh Willis, will also be on hand to present.

The ceremony which celebrates nominated lifestyle programs and dramas will also include presenters: Eva zu Beck (Superskilled with Eva zu Beck), Danielle Chang (Lucky Chow), Sunny Hostin (The View), Derek Hough (Extra), Pati Jinich (Pati’s Mexican Table), Star Jones (Divorce Court), Michael Jr. (Stand Up and Do Something), Judge Greg Mathis (Mathis Court with Judge Mathis), Keke Palmer (Glam Through the Ages), Nischelle Turner (Entertainment Tonight), and Andrew Zimmern (Andrew Zimmern’s Wild Game Kitchen).

The 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards will bring together an exciting mix of presenters representing the full spectrum of daytime television,” said Adam Sharp, President & CEO of NATAS. “From familiar faces in daytime drama to the personalities and creative voices behind talk shows and lifestyle programming, this year’s lineup reflects the breadth of talent that makes daytime so special. We look forward to celebrating the people who continue to shape the genre.”

Matthew Hoffman (Love Island USA, Cheap A$$ Beach Houses) will serve as the ceremony’s Voice of God, bringing his signature comedic narration to the evening’s celebrations. As previously announced, Lifetime Achievement honoree Genie Francis (Laura, General Hospital) will be presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by her husband, Jonathan Frakes.

So, what do you think about the list of presenters for the 2026 Daytime Emmy Awards? Let us know who you are looking forward to seeing via the comment section below.

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Days Of Our Lives

‘Days of our Lives’ Reveals Kyle Pryor Cast as Dominic Marino

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Kyle Pryor

For months now, Days of our Lives has teased the character of Dominic Marino. In recent weeks, viewers learned that Marino is on the down low working with Sami Brady’s (Alison Sweeney) apparent fiancé ‘Dante Vitali (Franco LoPresti), and that he is the never-before-heard-of child of Stefano DiMera (the late Joseph Mascolo) and Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall)!

Up until now, the Peacock streaming soap opera has never revealed his face, but that all seemed to change on the Tuesday, October 2o episode of DAYS. In story, Dante met Sami’s parents for the first time, Roman (Josh Taylor) and Marlena.

He shows them a photo of Dominic, which he happened to have on his own phone and even commented he kind of looked like he could be Marlena’s son. The photo, which has quickly made it around Soap Twitter/X, revealed that British-born actor Kyle Pryor is the man in the photo and eagle-eyed viewers actually located said photo on Pryor’s Instagram.

Dominix

Photo: Peacock

Deadline revealed Pryor started taping at the end of 2025 and will first be seen in the role, on air Monday, November 2.  In addition, Days will celebrate its 61st Anniversary with two special episodes featuring Dominic’s arrival, as well the returns of Tony and Anna DiMera, played respectively by Thaao Penghlis and Leann Hunley, on Friday, November 6 and Monday, November 9.

Those in the know, are are that Pryor previously held series regular roles on Australia’s Home and Away, and the UK’s Hollyoaks and guest starred on Emmerdale. In an ironic twist, Pryor appeared in the series Spartacus: Blood and Sand which is the same action series his apparent TV brother, Dan Feuerriegel (EJ DiMera), once appeared in before coming to DAYS.

So excited to see Kyle Pryor take on the role of Dominic Marino as Days of our Lives sets its anniversary story to kick-off with is arrival in Salem? Share your thoughts in the comment section. And in case you missed our latest conversation with Conner Floyd (Chad DiMera) he weighs-in on how Dominic’s appearance will shake things up in Salem. You can check that out below.

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Days Of Our Lives

Days of our Lives’ Conner Floyd Talks Dominic Marino Mystery, Chad and Belle, and Susan Seaforth Hayes (Exclusive)

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Conner Floyd

Fasten your seat belts Days of our Lives fans, as the mystery of Dominic Marino continues to unravel on all-new episodes of the Peacock streaming soap opera. Last week, Chad DiMera (Conner Floyd) learned that he may have a half-brother, who may be the biological child of his father, the late Stefano DiMera (the late Joseph Mascolo) and Dr. Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall), giving him great pause, because he knows Stefano had kidnapped Marlena for four years back in the late 80s and early 90s.

Chad has already been hunting down clues with his current girlfriend Belle Black (Martha Madison) in Italy and Salem, which revealed a photo of a young boy with Stefano with the date 1992 on the back of it, hidden inside Stefano’s chess set. So, what’s next?

Conner Floyd chatted on the Michael Fairman Channel in a new virtual interview released on Sunday, October 18, where he spoke on what the new addition to the DiMera family could do to the already dangerous sibling rivalries, the state of Chad’s relationship with Belle and much more.

EJ and Chad

Photo: JPI

DIMERA RIVALRY

After finding out from EJ (Dan Feuerriegel) that Dominic Marino could be the never-before-heard-of child of Stefano and Marlena, Conner Floyd explained, “I think it blows Chad’s mind a little bit. I think there’s a lot of things working there with old Chad. Obviously, bringing in another DiMera could cause some noise and the whole situation with Marlena’s a little awkward as well because he’s dating Belle, so this could cause a little tiff there. I think his head’s spinning and he does not know what to expect, but I also think he kind of expects that from Stefano, for sure.”

As to how this will change and color Chad’s relationship with EJ, Floyd responded, “Chad knows EJ’s not happy about it and I think he’s going to be real upset if this gets in his way of doing what he wants to do with the DiMera legacy and all that. However, for Chad, I think he’s just going to keep a sharp eye, see what this guy’s about, see if he’s here to cause some trouble or here to be a friend and kinda play it by ear.”

Belle and Chad

Photo: JPI

BELLE OF MY HEART

With Chad and Belle already being sleuths, Floyd says, you can look for the duo to continue getting to the truth. “I think Chad and Belle are committed to this. They’re going full National Treasure, Nicolas Cage,” says Conner. “They’re going to follow the clues. They’re going to get some answers.”

Since beginning in the role of Chad in June of 2025 and debuting on-screen back in April of 2026, the former Y&R star (where he played Chance Chancellor), says it was Madison who helped him get comfortable in his new surroundings.

“Martha is phenomenal. I couldn’t have asked for a better person to get tagged up with when I started here, just because she knows everybody,” shares Floyd. “She knows where to go, who to talk to. She’ll get the tea if you want, and so it was kind of cool. Martha took me under her wing, showed me the ropes. She’s a sweetheart.  I love working with her too. She’s a great actress.”

But, is Chad in love with Belle after such a tortured past with his beloved Abigail Deveraux DiMera? Floyd thinks so! “I think he’s into it. They’re such good friends and they have such a rich history. I think he’s in for the ride. You know, it’s one of those things you probably overlook at first and then they reconnected, and it feels easy and they’re going on these fun adventures.”

MAKING CHAD HIS OWN

Conner had the arduous task of being the successor to Billy Flynn in the role of Chad.. Flynn had played the part for 12 years before deciding to exit and head to Y&R. So, how did Conner approach learning the ins and out of Chad? Floyd shared, “I really dove into Chad when I first got this job. I liked that he kind of walks this tightrope of DiMera and not DiMera, you know. He want to so honor his family roots and really do something for the DiMera family, but he doesn’t want to fall into that trap that all the other DiMera have found themselves in. Chad is a DiMera at heart. He’s got those demons, but he’s just trying to keep them contained.”

Susan Seaforth Hayes

Photo: JPI

ICONIC

When Floyd got to DAYS, it was none other than Susan Seaforth Hayes (Julie Williams) who most surprised him in the most delightful way, given that he knew Hayes was a Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award winner and the current longest-running cast member on the canvas.

“I love working with Susan Hayes! I love her. She’s a sweetheart. Susan is one of the nicest people there. I just thought she was cool and it’s Susan Hayes, you know?  We’ve had a lot of scenes together, which is nice,” explained Conner.

“We’ll go to her dressing room, we’ll run our scenes, and then we’ll spend about an hour just talking about life and she’ll tell me about a book she’s reading. She’s such a history buff, which blows my mind. She’ll start dropping all these historical facts on me. I learn something new by the time I walk out of her dressing room every time!”

Now below, check out the full conversation with Conner Floyd via the Michael Fairman Channel.

Weigh-in: Do you like Chad and Belle as couple? Do you think Chad will get to the bottom of the Dominic Marino mystery? If so, do you think Dominic is truly Stefano and Marlena’s son … and what about Rita (Maggie Carney) in all this? Let us know your theories in the comment section.

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