Days Of Our Lives
‘Days of our Lives’ Co-EP Noel Maxam on the Legacy of Stefano DiMera and How He Can Still Drive Story Today
It’s been a big year of change for Days of our Lives behind the scenes and one of renewal. Back in March, longtime producer, Noel Maxam became the Peacock streaming soap opera’s co-executive producer replacing the retiring Janet Drucker. This was the second time in Maxam’s career he would hold down the Co-EP post having done so previously from 2008-2011.
Then, back in July, DAYS received an additional two-year pick-up which means Salem will be alive and well, at least through its 62nd and 63rd year, which takes it all the way through the 2027-2028 television and streaming season. With Paula Cwikly and Jeanne Marie Ford as head writers, and Maxam as co-executive producer, all under DAYS longtime EP, Ken Corday, the future is looking very bright for the iconic show which will turn 60 this November.
During a discussion on how he views the series and what’s to come, Maxam chatted with Soaps.com where he spoke on the importance of “The Phoenix,” Stefano DiMera to the show, which coincides with what viewers are beginning to see play-out on all-new episodes.
Photo: JPI
Marlena (Deidre Hall), who is grieving the loss of her beloved John Black (the late Drake Hogestyn), has found herself having visions of being Stefano’s “Queen of the Night,” and she voiced her concerns to Kayla (Mary Beth Evans). However, Kayla tells Marlena that Stefano is dead, but as we know, “The Phoenix” always rises again. Since Joe Mascolo passed away back in 2016, and we previously had Steve “Patch” Johnson (Stephen Nichols), becoming Stefano through a brain chip … who else could bring Stefano through them? Could it be the returning Tony DiMera (Thaao Penghlis), or EJ DiMera (Daniel Feuerriegel), who has Stefano’s ring on his finger?
Photo: JPI
Maxam weighed-in on this favorite piece of storyline jewelry: “Stefano’s ring is magic, and it is the history of the show and it brings in the legacy of the show, and yet it’s still active and it’s on EJ’s finger now, and we just don’t know where it will go, and there’s something about that ring that embodies that evil is possible, but that family is number one.”
Photo: JPI
In addition, with DAYS streaming on Peacock, Noel offered up if that means the show will push boundaries with the audience that cannot always be done on network television. Maxam says to the loyal and dedicated and even new DAYS viewers, “We want them to be comfortable and yet, challenged. So if I say pushing the boundaries, I’d say it’s more thematically and through emotions and what each character is going through more than I would say subject matter or, experiential through the human condition. That’s what we go for.”
Photo: JPI
Since DAYS tapes nine months ahead of episodes dropping on streaming, it will be a bit before we see shows where Maxam was at the helm in the Co-EP position, but as for what’s to come and what he promises for the Salem die-hards, “We want Days of our Lives to be challenging, surprising, and new and fresh every day, and sort of pushing the boundaries of how people feel bringing you into our version of what you may be experiencing every day, and sort of give you an exciting ride.”
With the “Who Shot EJ?” trial reaching its climax and the reveal of the culprit seemingly next week on Days of our Lives, check out the just released promo from Peacock for episodes streaming the week of August 11-15th. You can check it out below.
So, are you looking forward to seeing how Stefano is revealed to be in story? Is someone inhabiting him? If so, who do you think it is? What do you think about Noel Maxam’s sentiments on how he sees DAYS pushing any boundaries and how important the evil side of the DiMera clan is to the soap? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
Love Days been loyal for years! Haters can say what they want under Ron C it was fresh and exciting every day couple of storylines I didn’t love but for the most part it was great to watch everyday . That said I am not excited whatsoever about revisiting a Stefano brain chip storyline!Stefano still looms large just by his picture over the mantle in the mansion. I say leave it alone!
I agree
Terrible news. Hate to be a Debbie Downer but some folks never learn. Days should have moved on from Stefano years ago and introduced a new antagonist family with something different to offer. I hope this doesn’t mean Stefano will rise again. I would love to see more Alamains or Von Lueshners who can bring something new to the table. How many illegitimate children can one man have? How many back from the dead stories? How many times can we watch people talking to that Stefano portrait? People do get bored. And with their months of stories in the can before they can re-pivot Days may have put a stake in its heart.
While I certainly like occasional mentions of deceased characters, keeping their memory alive, all these teases about an “alive” Stefano are infuriating and, frankly, boring. The actor is dead; the character is dead. No need to revisit, reinvent, or reinstitute.
And although the new producer’s aspirations of “new and fresh every day” are admirable, we are certainly not seeing that yet. And here’s a tip: no more visits by the devil, even if he might be sharing warm temps with Stefano.
James…oh I agree…TOTALLY!!!!! To me, whenever a soap opera actor (or actress) passes away in real life…and a soap decides to kill off the deceased’s character, well then the show should keep the dead character DEAD AND BURIED…FOR GOOD!!!!!
Have a good one, Brother.
I hope they let Stefano rest in peace! Having Thaao Penghlis back at the helm of the family business is an expected move, as well as a battle with EJ to get it. But please don’t bring back lame storylines from years ago. Both Joe and Thaao are talented, respected actors and deserve more than mysterious magical powers of Stefano’s ring or Dr. Rollf finding a new serum to bring back the dead.
I LOVED Stefano, he brought so much excitement to the show, drama, fury, compassion!!! If you can’t bring back Joseph Mascolo back, then leave it alone! There’s only one Stefano ❤️ Drop the Queen of the night thing, it’s ridiculous
Exactly
Please don’t bring back that ridiculous possession storyline!!! It was stupid then, and would be even more stupid now
Seriousy? My vacations in Salem were some of my best work!
Don’t worry though, I’m not planning on going back there in the near future.
And neither is Stefano. He’s right here in Hell, where he belongs!
TOTALLY AGREE!!
We do not need another Stephano story let him rest in piece. Find new stories
It’s weird to talk about Stefano being alive because the actor is dead and Stefano in age would be too.
Please don’t bring him back nor Marlene being possessed. This two screwed we be the end for me. Very tired of thos.
Me too!
I’m 75 years old and had been watching Daýs of Our Lives since I was in high school. When it went to Peacock, sadly, I am not able to watch it daily. From time to time, I get summaries on Soap.com, but it not the same as watching it daily. I’ve missed so many episodes and have little interest on the version going forward.
Hello don’t have much time
I am 83 yrs old, watched Days from the beginning until it went to Peacock. I can’t afford the station and really miss it. Get a few updates on my phone but its not like watching everyday. Please come back to NBC you lost a loyal listener.
I have watched Days since I was five with my Mom . I remember the characters from the Alice Horton time.I enjoy that Days mention of them as well as the story lines that involve them .Like the box with Julie’s family’s necklace in it.
Beyond the Gates
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 16
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) today announced the full list of nominees for the upcoming 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, and it was CBS daytime’s The Young and the Restless and broadcast television newest soap opera, Beyond the Gates that racked up the most nominations with 18 and 16, respectively.
The full reveal on Tuesday follows the announcement of several major categories including Lead Actor and Actress on Monday via Extra and Entertainment Tonight and The View today revealing Daytime Drama Series and more.
The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmys ceremony is set to take place on Friday, October 30 at the historic Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California.
Photo: CBS
In a statement, Adam Sharp, President and CEO of NATAS expressed, “We’re proud to honor the extraordinary talent and creative teams whose work continues to define and elevate daytime television, As the Daytime landscape evolves and new forms of storytelling emerge, we remain committed to recognizing the innovation happening across the industry.”
“Each year, the Daytime Emmy Awards celebrate the creativity, passion, and dedication that drive this vibrant community of storytellers,” said Rachel Schwartz, Head of the Daytime Emmy Awards. “Congratulations to this year’s nominees, whose work continues to entertain, inspire and connect with audiences every day. We look forward to celebrating their remarkable achievements in Hollywood this October.”
The Daytime Emmy Awards have recognized outstanding achievement in television programming and crafts since 1974, honoring work in a variety of genres, including daytime dramas, talk series, entertainment news, culinary, adventure, instructional and legal/courtroom programming.
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Honoree, Gold & Silver Circle Inductees, and ceremony host will be announced at a later date.
Now below, check out the nominees in the daytime drama, talk show, entertainment news series and creative arts categories and congratulations to all!
Photo: JPI
Outstanding Daytime Drama Series
Beyond the Gates
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Daytime Drama Series
Stacy Haiduk (as Kristen DiMera), Days of Our Lives
Karla Mosley (as Dani Dupree), Beyond the Gates
Michelle Stafford (as Phyllis Summers), The Young and the Restless
Heather Tom (as Katie Logan), The Bold and the Beautiful
Tamara Tunie (as Anita Williams Dupree), Beyond the Gates
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Daytime Drama Series
Eric Braeden (as Victor Newman), The Young and the Restless
Steve Burton (as Jason Morgan), General Hospital
Scott Clifton (as Liam Spencer), The Bold and the Beautiful
Thorsten Kaye (as Ridge Forrester), The Bold and the Beautiful
Christian Jules Le Blanc (as Michael Baldwin), The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Daytime Drama Series
Linsey Godfrey (as Sarah Horton), Days of Our Lives
Camryn Grimes (as Mariah Copeland), The Young and the Restless
Beth Maitland (as Traci Abbott), The Young and the Restless
Trisha Mann-Grant (as Leslie Thomas), Beyond the Gates
Amanda Setton (as Brook Lynn Quartermaine), General Hospital
Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama Series
Sean Dominic (as Nate Hastings), The Young and the Restless
Timon Kyle Durrett (as Bill Hamilton), Beyond the Gates
Michael Graziadei (as Daniel Romalotti), The Young and the Restless
Roger Howarth (as Matt Clark), The Young and the Restless
Mike Manning (as Bradley “Smitty” Smith), Beyond the Gates
Lawrence Saint-Victor (as Carter Walton), The Bold and the Beautiful
Outstanding Emerging Talent in a Daytime Drama Series
Braedyn Bruner (as Emma Scorpio-Drake), General Hospital
Al Calderon (as Javier Hernandez), Days of Our Lives
Alice Halsey (as Rachel Black), Days of Our Lives
Giovanni Mazza (as Gio Palmieri), General Hospital
Ambyr Michelle (as Eva Thomas), Beyond the Gates
Arielle Prepetit (as Naomi Hamilton Hawthorne), Beyond the Gates
Outstanding Guest Performance in a Daytime Drama Series
Jasmine Burke (as June Hughes), Beyond the Gates
Jeff Kober (as Cyrus Renault), General Hospital
Eva LaRue (as Natalia Rogers-Ramirez), General Hospital
Christopher Sean (as Paul Narita), Days of Our Lives
Ray Wise (as Ian Ward), The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Writing Team for a Daytime Drama Series
Beyond the Gates
The Bold and the Beautiful
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
Outstanding Directing Team for a Daytime Drama Series
Days of Our Lives
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Casting for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates
General Hospital
The Young and the Restless
Outstanding Daytime Talk Series
3rd Hour of TODAY
The Drew Barrymore Show
The Kelly Clarkson Show
Live With Kelly and Mark
TODAY With Jenna & Friends
The View
Outstanding Daytime Talk Series Host
Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, Alyssa Farah Griffin, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin & Ana Navarro, The View
Kelly Clarkson, The Kelly Clarkson Show
Tamron Hall, Tamron Hall
Jennifer Hudson, The Jennifer Hudson Show
Sherri Shepherd, Sherri
Outstanding Entertainment News Series
Access Hollywood
Entertainment Tonight
Extra
Outstanding Daytime Personality (Daily)
Mona Kosar Abdi, Derek Hough & Terri Seymour, Extra
Cassie DiLaura, Denny Directo, Kevin Frazier, Rachel Smith & Nischelle Turner, Entertainment Tonight
Scott Evans, Zuri Hall, Kit Hoover & Mario Lopez, Access Hollywood
Star Jones & Corey Jovan, Divorce Court
Outstanding Arts and Popular Culture Program
Beyond the Gates: Welcome to the Neighborhood — An Entertainment Tonight Special
Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter
Variety & CNN Actors on Actors
Variety Studio: Actors on Actors
Working In the Theatre
Outstanding Music Direction and Composition for a Daytime
Beyond the Gates, Episode 103
Have Guitar Will Travel World
The Kelly Clarkson Show Episode 5033
Let Frankie Cook,” Getting the Band Back Together
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Outstanding Technical Direction and Video for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates, Episode 104
The Bold and the Beautiful,” Episode 9511
Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade”
The Jennifer Hudson Show, ” Episode 4041
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”
Outstanding Hairstyling and Makeup for a Daytime Program
Beyond the Gates, Episode 103
General Hospital, Episode 15719
The Kelly Clarkson Show,” Episode 5033
The Young and the Restless,” Episode 13273
So, what do you think of the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy nominations? Who are you happy to see receive a nomination and who do you think was snubbed? Weigh-in via the comment section.
Monday on Entertainment Tonight, the second set of nominations for the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards were announced which included the highly-coveted Outstanding Lead Performance in a Daytime Drama Series – Actress and Outstanding Daytime Talk Series.
ET followed suit after Extra announced the nominees, as previously reported, in the Outstanding Lead Performance in a Daytime Drama Series – Actor and Outstanding Daytime Talk Host.
Now, five leading ladies of the soaps are vying for the gold for Lead Actress and the category marked the first-ever nominations for CBS daytime’s Beyond the Gates when two actresses made the final cut. Only General Hospital is not represented among the actresses this year after Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis Davis) took home the trophy last year.
Photo: NATAS
THE FIVE LEADING LADIES OF THE SOAPS ARE …
The 2026 Lead Actress nominees are: Stacy Haiduk (Kristen DiMera), Days of Our Lives, Karla Mosley (Dani Dupree), Beyond the Gates, Michelle Stafford (Phyllis Summers), The Young and the Restless, Heather Tom (Katie Logan), The Bold and the Beautiful, and Tamara Tunie (Anita Dupree), Beyond the Gates.
This marks the first Daytime Emmy nominations for Karla Mosley and Tamara Tunie. In addition, this marks the first-time in her career that Stacy Haiduk had received a Lead Actress nod after two Supporting Actress nominations.
Meanwhile, Michelle Stafford had previously won 3 Emmys – 2 for Lead Actress and 1 for Supporting, but this recognition makes it her 11th overall nomination.
Heather Tom currently is tied for the most all-time Daytime Emmy wins with One Life to Live alum and General Hospital guest star, Erika Slezak. The B&B star has 19 nominations throughout her career.
Photo: ABC
DAYTIME TALK SERIES
In the Outstanding Daytime Talk Series category, the nominees are: 3rd Hour of Today, The Drew Barrymore Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Live with Kelly and Mark, Today with Jenna and Friends and The View.
“We’re proud to honor the extraordinary talent and creative teams whose work continues to define and elevate daytime television,” NATAS president and CEO Adam Sharp said in a statement on the nominations. “As the Daytime landscape evolves and new forms of storytelling emerge, we remain committed to recognizing the innovation happening across the industry.”
The rest of the nominations will be revealed tomorrow on Tuesday July 14 starting on The View and then the full list of nominees in both the main and creative arts will be released by NATAS. The 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards are slated for October 30th in Hollywood, California.
So, what do you think about the women who are vying for the Lead Actress Daytime Emmy? Happy with who got in? Who do you feel got snubbed? What do you think of the nominees for Daytime Talk Series? Weigh-in via the comment section.
It’s Daytime Emmy nomination week, and as previously reported things kick-off on Monday, July 13 when Entertainment Tonight (7pm ET) will announce the nominees for Lead Actress category and Daytime Talk Series for the upcoming 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards. In addition on Monday, Extra (7pm ET) will reveal the nominees for Lead Actor and Daytime Talk Host.
On Tuesday, The View (11am ET) starts things off with their announcement of Daytime Drama, Entertainment News program and Outstanding Daytime Personality-Daily. That is followed by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) full reveal of all the categories beginning at 12noon ET/9am PT on their website and their official social handles on X and Instagram.
Then, Tuesday night at 8pm ET/5pm PT join Michael Fairman as he hosts his 12th annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Special 2026 live on You Tube’s Michael Fairman Channel where he will chat with some of the just announced nominees as we celebrate the hard work of the men and women in front of the camera who will be going for gold.
WHEN ARE THE DAYTIME EMMYS?
This year, the 53rd annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be handed out on October 30 in ceremonies in Hollywood, California (Venue yet to be revealed). At that time, as like last year, both the major categories and creative arts will be presented. There is no word yet on a broadcast partner for the annual celebration of daytime programming, or if it will soley be streamed on NATAS’ watch.theemmys.tv and various apps and platforms.
WHO WILL BE APPEARING ON THE DAYTIME EMMY NOMINATIONS SPECIAL 2026?
Throughout Tuesday, keep an eye on Michael Fairman TV’s social media handles on X, Facebook and Instagram, for updates of who will be expected to appear on our live show.
If you have a question or comment for one of the nominees, or on the nominations, we can encourage you to join us in the live chat on Tuesday night.
So, who are you hoping lands a nomination from Beyond the Gates, General Hospital, Days of Our Lives, The Bay, The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless? Let us know via the comment section. More Tuesday!
53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Announced: ‘The Young and the Restless’ Tops With 18, ‘Beyond the Gates’ With 16
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53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Nominations: Outstanding Lead Actress Drama Series
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GENERAL HOSPITAL Spoilers Promo: Jason’s Back, Drew Begins to Make His Move, Portia Goes Into a Labor
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