Days Of Our Lives
‘Days of Our Lives’ Dan Feuerriegel Teases the Mystery of Marlena’s Chess Set, and Opens Up About the Departures of His Co-Stars (Exclusive)
EJ DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel) is always in the thick of things on Peacock’s Days of Our Lives. Currently on all-new episodes his pet project to bring his sister, Lexie Carver (Nikki Crawford) back to life, seems in part, successful.
Meanwhile, his machinations with the women in his life continue as viewers wait to see just what he may remember about Cat Greene (AnnaLynne McCord) and his past, and what trouble he and Gwen Rizczech (Emily O’Brien) will stir up, and that’s only part of EJ’s story.
Recently, viewers learned at the reading of Stefano’s will, that the Phoenix’s Queen of the Night, Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) was bequeathed a chess set. In fact, Stefano left it not only for Marlena, but her late husband and Stefano’s ultimate adversary, John Black. Clearly, there is more to the story, after Marlena declined the gift and walked out without saying a word, opening up another mystery.
Photo: JPI
In a brand new conversation with Days of Our Lives leading man and villain, Dan Feuerriegel now featured on You Tube’s Michael Fairman Channel, he previews just how EJ may be deployed into the mystery of Marlena’s chest set from his father, the iconic Stefano DiMera.
CHECKMATE
First, Feuerriegel weighed-in on what EJ truly thinks of Marlena. “Respects, but cautious. Marlena’s the Queen Bee,” explained Dan. “So, there are some people on DAYS that EJ will not mess with, shall we say, and Marlena is one of those characters.”
As to what is up with the chess set that Marlena was given and turned down at the will reading, Dan shared, “There’s some fun that that occurs with that chess board and shall we say, like a little adventure. Obviously, EJ is suspected of having something to do with this, but also, in regards to the will reading, he was shut out. So, he’s curious. EJ’s kept a little bit to the side about what it is, because it’s his father. However, it’s going to lead to some pretty fun stuff.”
EJ has always wanted his father’s respect, so might that be what drives him to make sure Stefano’s wish with Marlena is carried out? Dan weighed-in. “I think in the end, EJ will do what his father wanted. So, whatever that entails that’s what he’ll do. With this and the chess set, he’s a little bit out of the loop, which is infuriating for him, but it also gives him a lot of curiosity. He definitely wants to keep himself involved. But as I mentioned, he’s kept to the side a bit, but he’ll get his mitts in there somewhere.”
THE HARD GOODBYES
In soap operas, cast members come and go, and sometimes, often like a baseball team analogy, they are traded from one show to another, or their story has run out for now. But in soaps, never say never.
For Dan, he had to say goodbye to some very key members of his on-screen family when they departed Days of Our Lives for various reasons: his on-screen brother, Billy Flynn (ex-Chad, now Cane, Y&R), on-screen son, Carson Boatman (Johnny) and on-screen sister, Stacy Haiduk (Kristen/Susan, now Patty, Y&R). As DAYS fans know, the series tapes ten-months in advance of dropping new episodes, so fans can expect to see both Boatman and Haiduk firmly in their Salem roles for months yet to come.
Photo: JPI
BILLY FLYNN
“It was a bit of a bummer because I had developed a close bond with him and he was a lovely guy,” Dan shared fondly. “We shared a lot of the same kind of humor and views on the world and things like that. We were able to chat and it was shame. But look, Billy’s got a big family now, and he needs to do what’s best for him and his wife and his family. And so, you completely understand it. Then, Connor Floyd came in and Connor is just as lovely. It kind of sucks because the guy that is more handsome than me leaves, and then is replaced with a guy just as handsome. I’m like, ‘okay, alright.”
Photo: JPI
CARSON BOATMAN
It’s no secret that some of the best scenes were always between EJ and his son, Johnny. So, when Carson Boatman was let go from the show late last year, it was hard for all involved. “It’s a similar situation to Billy to be honest. It’s like the people that I loved the most moved on from the show and it’s sad,” shared Dan. “It’s because Carson and I were friends outside of the show. We would hang out and just like me and Billy we’d talk to with each other and everything like that and that just translated into (our on-screen) father/son dynamic.”
Photo: JPI
STACY HAIDUK
Since Dan became the new EJ DiMera back in 2021, he had the opportunity to work with Stacy Haiduk not only as EJ’s sister, Kristen, but as the wacky Susan Banks, EJ’s mother! Here he sums up his experience working with Haiduk and the respect he has for her as a performer.
“I adore Stacy so much. Whenever she plays (Susan Banks) my mother, it’s so much fun,” said Feuerriegel. “They give her so much dialogue and the way she talks is so different. Stacy will improvise a little bit here and there. But the amount of times I’ve had to bite my lip from not laughing because she just makes such great, fantastic, outrageous choices … and she’s also an absolute sweetheart. Then, to go from that, to the dynamic of Kristen where it’s very brooding and a very similar brother/sister dynamic, it’s fantastic. To be able to work with with her was really, really lovely. She’s an amazing woman and a fantastic actor. I know she’s at Y&R now which is great. But, that’s another a bummer for me. There’s been a few little heartbreaks for me, personally.”
Now below, check out our full conversation with DAYS Dan Feuerriegel now on the Michael Fairman Channel, where we touch on many subjects on the life and times of EJ DiMera.
Then weigh-in: what do you think is the story behind Marlena (and her late husband John) being gifted the chess set by Stefano? What are your hopes for EJ DiMera in the months to come? What did you think about the sentiments shared by Dan on the departure of several of his beloved co-stars? Drop your thoughts in the comment section.
Love this show and EJ!!!
Dan looks totally hot in that photo and the mustache is so sexy, yet so not EJ. Well, Stacy as Kristen/Susan/etc is a bummer, I thought she was going to Y&R for a short story arc. It appears she’s exited stage right, among the others mentioned in the article. I loved when Stacy assumed the role of Kristen, but… if indeed Stacy is at Y&R permanently, I would like to see a new actress to play Kristen #3, it’s time to retire Susan and the other siblings. As fun as they all were with Eileen Davidson, and then with Stacy… those characters and yes dear Susan need to be exiled – it just gets old, it was fun times watching Eileen’s Susan especially and the others, however, if Stacy isn’t coming back to DAYS, I think the focus should be solely on the Kristen character. Who would I love to see take-over the role? DAYS call….Robin Christopher!
Stacy is not back permanently; she’s a recurring player on both soaps, so she could also work on Days of Our Lives, but they rested the character, and it is not the first time they have done this. I am sure, at some point, Kristen will be written back in.
DAYS call….Robin Christopher!
She is retired and no longer acting.
rumor has it that Robin is no longer retired from acting. You think you’re always right and in the know, hey.
DAYS Call Robin Christopher as nu-Kristen!!!
That man Just oozes masculinity and sexiness
Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady, Days of our Lives) is jumping head first into the celebrity podcast rage with the launch of hers entitled, Between Takes with Alison Sweeney.
In between her busy schedule of Hallmark Channel movies, features, TV appearances and returns to Days of our Lives, Sweeney will now feature special guests each episode as previewed in her Instagram video clip announcing the new podcast series.
Accompanying her video, Sweeney expressed, “Trying something new! Check out my new podcast. Just fun casual chats with my friends. Links are in my bio.”
Photo: Hallmark
The first episode features former DAYS star and Hallmark Channel mainstay, Victor Webster (ex-Nicholas Alamain). It was back from 1999-2000 that Victor first appeared on the then NBC soap opera.
As previously reported, Sweeney will be reprising her role of Sami on Days of our Lives, next summer in June when she returns along with several fan favorites for a story arc.
During Alison’s premiere of “Between Takes,” Webster shares stories of his time on DAYS, being a proud dog dad, and globetrotter, plus working on action scenes and for Victor, taking over from The Rock in the the Scorpion King franchise appearing in Scorpion King 3: Battle For Redemption. Alison and Victor also chat about their time on sets.
You can listen to Between Takes with Alison Sweeney on all major podcast streaming platforms; including Apple Podcasts here.
So, will you be checking out Alison’s podcast as it continues to grow? Intrigued who from Days of our Lives and the soaps might chat it up with her in future episodes? Let us know in the comment section.
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Days Of Our Lives
‘Days of our Lives’ Fall Preview Reveals Sofia Mattsson as Chloe Lane and New Storyline Twists!
On Monday, November 2 Peacock released Days of our Lives extended fall preview promo that always coincides with the series anniversary where this year it will turn 61 on November 8.
Within it, the long-running soap opera finally revealed that General Hospital alum Sofia Mattsson (ex-Sasha Gilmore) is playing a recast Chloe Lane, when in a sexy moment, nuChloe is seen with Brady (Eric Martsolf) saying, “I’ve missed you so much,” and the two share a passionate kiss!
Since DAYS confirmed Mattsson was hired by the show back in March of this year, up until now who she was playing was kept under wraps, but smart viewers were betting on a Chloe recast, or perhaps a very much alive, Abigail Deveraux.
Photo: JPI
A NEW CHLOE
Back in August of 2026, Nadia Bjorlin confirmed during a livestream interview on the Michael Fairman Channel alongside Kyle Pettis about their new film, Veronica and Julian that she was asked back to Days of our Lives to reprise the role of Chloe. However, she now lives in Ireland with her husband and children, and not in Los Angeles where DAYS tapes all-new episodes.
Bjorlin clarified why she turned down a return, “Logistically, it just didn’t make sense,” as well as it not making sense for her financially given the long distance and the budgets these days with the soaps.
In an emotional moment the actress shared that, “It hurt my heart to have to say no. So, I guess I can confirm that it will not be me playing Chloe if there’s a Chloe that comes back.”
The character of Chloe Lane first came on to the canvas back in 1999 and was played by Bjorlin for various runs up until 2023 when Chloe was once again written off the canvas.
THE STORY OF DOMINIC MARINO
In other stories this fall, front and center in the preview is the arrival of Dominic Marino played by Kyle Pryor who debuted on today’s Monday November 2 episode on Peacock.
Now the twists begin as if he will be proven to be the true biological son of Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) and Stefano DiMera, with the shocking ending where Marlena’s enemy, Orpheus (George DelHoyo) is back with some intel on the true story of Dominic and more!
Courtesy/Peacock
COMINGS AND GOINGS
Also, things look like they are about to wrap up for Chanel (Raven Bowens) and Johnny (Carson Boatman) as she suggest they leave Salem. We know that Carson Boatman and Raven Bowens have been gone from the show since January of 2026 when they were left go. The timing would seem right that soon they will exit the show.
In addition, lives are on the line this fall as Xander (Paul Telfer) and Sarah (Linsey Godfrey) reunite, only to have him in the middle of more danger, while Leo (Greg Rikaart) is in peril drawing Javi (Jacob Martinez) back into his feelings for his ex. Is this the turning point to reunite the two? Stay tuned.
Take a look at the Days of our Lives Fall Sizzle below and then let us know what you thought of it and if you are happy that Sofia Mattsson is playing Chloe Lane, or were you hoping she would turn out to be playing someone else? Let us know in the comment section below.
The 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards red carpet arrivals featured many a leading man from your favorite soaps, plus the younger stars and veteran actors you’ve come to love.
The gents were definitely about the bowties this year, plus fashion-forward trends, classic suit and tux looks, or sport jacket and no tie. There were a myriad of fashion choices on display from the one thing the soaps are usually known for, ‘hot’ guys.
This year for the first time the red carpet featured the cast of Beyond the Gates who were eligible for Daytime Emmy competition for the first time in their young history, bringing fresh faces and new vibes to the festivities.
LEADING MEN, VETERAN STARS AND NEWCOMERS STRIKE A POSE
Many of this year’s nominees who went on to become eventual winners, previous Emmy winners, and more, took to the carpet to strike a pose for the paparazzi in attendance.
Some of the standout looks came from (pictured above): Steve Burton (Jason Morgan, General Hospital) in traditional black tux with a sheen, Lawrence Saint-Victor (Carter Walton, The Bold and the Beautiful), Giovanni Mazza (Gio Palmieri), Jibre Hordges (Jacob Hawthorne, Beyond the Gates) and Michael Graziadei (Daniel Romalotti, The Young and the Restless), all wearing tuxes, suits or sportcoat and trousers with a bowtie, plus now two-time Daytime Emmy winner, Roger Howarth (Matt Clark, The Young and the Restless) who gave us that stellar jacket and more relaxed vibe for the carpet.
Now below, check out the other actors who made an impression with red carpet fashion at the Daytime Emmy Awards this past Friday night.
Photo: NATAS
Days of our Lives and Brilliant Minds alum, Al Calderon (ex-Javi Hernandez), a Daytime Emmy nominee in light green suit.
Photo: NATAS
Beyond the Gates’ Jaden Lucas Miller (Tyrell Richardson) had it put together from head to toe making his first appearance at a Daytime Emmy red carpet.
Photo: NATAS
The icon, Y&R’s Eric Braeden, a nominee this year for Lead Actor for his performances as Victor Newman took to the red carpet alongside his granddaughter, but took a moment to pose solo for the cameras.
Photo: NATAS
Alex Cheeks who plays Donnell McBride on Beyond the Gates took to the carpet in this blue suit with brooch.
Photo: NATAS
General Hospital’s Dominic Zamprogna (Dante Falconeri) entering the red carpet from the street stylin’ in blue jacket and white sneakers.
Photo: NATAS
The Bold and the Beautiful’s Harrison Cone (Deke Sharpe) bringing the on-trend fashion to the Emmys, as well as he would as the young fashion designer at Logan!
Photo: NATAS
General Hospital’s Sawandi Wilson (Dr. Isaiah Gannon) in velvet red tuxedo stood out on the red carpet.
Photo: JPI
Last year’s Lead Actor Daytime Emmy winner, Paul Telfer (Xander Kiriakis, Days of our Lives) returned this year to present several awards on-stage and hit the red carpet in very stylish black kilt.
Photo: NATAS
Days of our Lives’ newest leading man, Kyle Pryor made his debut on the Daytime Emmy red carpet. He premieres tomorrow on the November 2nd episode of the Peacock streaming soap operas as Dominik Marino.
Photo: NATAS
Beyond the Gates star, Sean Freeman (Andre Richardson) always looks super cool. This time in white jacket and packets making a fashion statement on his first Daytime Emmys red carpet.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
The Bold and the Beautiful’s Crew Morrow (Will Spencer) opted for a jean jacket and black sheen jeans to take to the carpet, but still bringing the swag.
Photo: HutchinsPhoto
Days of our Lives alum Christopher Sean (Paul Narita), a nominee for Guest Performer in a Daytime Drama Series took to the red carpet in beautiful blue.
So, which men do you think were looking good? Did the actors bring it to the red carpet? Let us know your thoughts and picks via the comment section below.
Y&R’s Bryton James and Christel Khalil Crossover to ‘Beyond the Gates’ (Sneak Peek)
DAYS Favorite Alison Sweeney Launches New Podcast ‘Between Takes’
‘Days of our Lives’ Fall Preview Reveals Sofia Mattsson as Chloe Lane and New Storyline Twists!
2026 Daytime Emmys Red Carpet: Dashing Duos – Who’s Got the Look? (Photos)
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Brennan’s Body is Found, Heather Makes Her Reentry into Port Charles
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards Winners: ‘General Hospital’ Takes Drama Series, Tamara Tunie and Scott Clifton Top Acting Honors
Who Should Win Outstanding Lead Actor at the 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards? (Poll)
Could Justin Bruening Join ‘General Hospital’? Set Visit with Wife Alexa Havins Stirs Fan Hopes
Y&R’s Jason Thompson and Mark Grossman Deliver the ‘Power Performances of the Week’
Who Should Win Outstanding Daytime Drama at the 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards? (Poll)
Y&R’s Bryton James and Christel Khalil Crossover to ‘Beyond the Gates’ (Sneak Peek)
‘Days of our Lives’ Fall Preview Reveals Sofia Mattsson as Chloe Lane and New Storyline Twists!
GENERAL HOSPITAL Preview: Brennan’s Body is Found, Heather Makes Her Reentry into Port Charles
‘General Hospital’s’ Steve Burton Shares Heartfelt Speech He Had Planned If He Had Won Lead Actor at the Daytime Emmys
‘General Hospital’ Alum Jeff Kober Accepts His Daytime Emmy Award After Being Unable to Attend the Ceremony
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