Late-breaking News
DAYS has announced plans to return to production on September 1, but one star who will no longer be a part of its cast is Kristian Alfonso (Hope). The actress, who joined the show in 1983 and catapulted to soap super-stardom, revealed that she has already filmed her last episode.
“DAYS OF OUR LIVES has been a vital part of both my personal and professional journey,” she began in a statement. “I am forever grateful to NBC and the late [Executive Producer] Betty Corday, who took a chance on me many years ago and changed my life. I have built some lifelong friendships with my extraordinarily talented castmates. DAYS has one of the hardest working crews in all of television, many of whom have become part of my extended family. I feel blessed and honored to have been invited into people’s homes for over three decades. However, it is now time for me to write my next chapter. I will not be returning to DAYS when it resumes production in September. I’ve already filmed my last episode several months ago. Finally — to the incredibly loyal fans of DAYS
— many of you have been with me on this journey from the beginning. I cannot thank you enough for your generosity, love and support. I could not have done it without YOU!!!”
After the announcement broke online, stars flocked to her Instagram page to leave their well-wishes. Here’s what they had to say:
Alison Sweeney (Sami): “So much love and respect for you @kristianalfonso!”
Freddie Smith (Sonny): “It was an absolute pleasure to share the stage with you @kristianalfonso - your professionalism, talent and work ethic has inspired me so much!
Anytime we’d see each other at work, you would always greet me with a big hug and smile asking how myself and [fiancée] Alyssa were doing. That meant the world to me. Thank you for your kind words and advice throughout the years. I’m excited to see your next chapter!”
Robert Scott Wilson (Ben): “Iconic. Kristian, it was an honor to share the stage with you. From day 1 you welcomed me with open arms and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to tell stories alongside you, especially these last few months. I’m rooting for you. Here’s to your next chapter! #Bostonstrong.”
Mary Beth Evans (Kayla): “I love you sister.”
Greg Rikaart (ex-leo; Kevin, Y&R): “Congratulations, Kristian! I will always be particularly grateful to you for you the kindness and warmth you showed me from day one. How lucky everyone at Days & the fans have been all these years. Enjoy all the next adventures.”
Lauren Koslow (Kate): “An inspiration to us all - love to you GF.”
Chrishell Stause (ex-jordan): “You are the epitome of class wrapped up in the most beautiful shell!! I absolutely loved being able to work with such an icon!!”
Martha Madison (Belle): “It will never be the same.”
Lamon Archey (Eli): “Best of luck Kristian! It was always [a] pleasure working with you. You’ll definitely be missed.”
Kyle Lowder (ex-rex/ Brady): “Kristian, I still remember the first time I met you. My first day of work on the show, 20 years ago this month. You were so gracious and welcoming to me, as terrified as I was at the time as a green 19 year old kid. Thank you for that day, and all the days since. You are one of the greats, professionally AND personally. I will miss seeing your face in Salem. Thank you for all that you have done for DAYS, and for me.”
Charles Shaughnessy (exshane): “Classy as always! You have brightened so many lives, mine included! Now go do some well-earned day-drinking!!”
Alexis Thorpe (ex-cassie): “You are a true legend!! Will never forget the kindness and respect you bestowed upon me when I was a sassy little troublemaker. Big love.”
Sal Stowers (Lani): “It’s truly been an honor getting to know you and working with you. Thank you for all your beautiful words of wisdom and being such a dear friend to me. I love you.”
Stephen Nichols (Steve):
“Gonna miss your smiling face, Baby. What an amazing run. But... I think you’ll be back. Lots of love.”
Melissa Reeves (Jennifer):
“Love you to the moon and back can’t wait to see what’s next.”
Wally Kurth (Justin; Ned, GH): “You were there when I first started my TV journey. Always supportive and with a ready smile. To your next chapter! I will always remember the laughs we shared on stage.”
Krista Allen (ex-billie):
“Wow! - I’m sending you all the love! Thank you for making my time on the show so awesome. I loved being the Billie to your Hope. - There have been 3 Billie’s but there will always be only ONE Hope. You’re a legend KA. Let’s get that coffee when we can!”
Julianne Polaha (ex-greta):
“You are one of the very best out there, your incredible talent is only outshined by your love and generous heart. You bless everyone that is around you. You were one of the best things about my 4 years on Days!”