Hold on tight, soap fans—because a Days of Our Lives rumor has just exploded across social media, and it could change everything you thought you knew about Salem. Fan-favorite James Scott, the unforgettable actor behind Elvis “EJ” DiMera, might be headed back to the show—but not as EJ. Instead, whispers suggest Scott could be returning as none other than Stefano DiMera himself. That’s right—the legendary Phoenix may be rising once again… in a completely shocking new form.

🔥 James Scott’s Unmatched Legacy as EJ DiMera

Let’s rewind for a moment. When James Scott first appeared in Days of Our Lives in 2006 as the slick, magnetic EJ DiMera, fans instantly fell under his spell. With his suave British charm, piercing intensity, and ruthless DiMera family ambition, Scott delivered one of the most iconic performances in the show’s history. His on-screen chemistry with Alison Sweeney’s Sami Brady created an unforgettable supercouple—equal parts passion, danger, and heartbreak.

From corporate takeovers and family betrayal to deep love and tragic death, EJ’s story arc was packed with unforgettable highs and devastating lows. His supposed death in 2014 shocked fans and left Sami devastated. While the character was resurrected off-screen and eventually recast with Dan Feuerriegel, many longtime viewers never stopped longing for Scott’s return.

But what if EJ wasn’t the role he’d come back for?

😱 The Shocking Twist: James Scott as Stefano?!

That’s the rumor currently swirling around Days of Our Lives fan circles. With the show teasing a possible resurrection of Stefano DiMera—originally played to perfection by the late Joseph Mascolo—some fans believe James Scott could take up the mantle. Yes, the Phoenix might rise again… this time in the body of his own son.

It may sound far-fetched, but let’s not forget—we’re talking about Days of Our Lives, where mind control, devil possession, and brain transplants have all made prime-time appearances. Remember when Stefano’s essence was implanted into Steve “Patch” Johnson’s body? In Salem, no storyline is too outlandish.

So, what if history repeats itself?

🧬 A DiMera Twist Worthy of the Ages

Imagine this: EJ, presumed to be himself, begins behaving oddly—strategizing with renewed ruthlessness, reviving DiMera Enterprises with terrifying efficiency, and echoing Stefano’s most famous lines. Slowly, Sami, Chad, and others around him begin to suspect something sinister is at play. Then comes the bombshell—Stefano’s consciousness has taken over EJ’s body.

James Scott—channeling both his iconic EJ role and the sinister mastermind traits of Stefano—would redefine villainy in Salem. It would be a stunning twist that reinvigorates the DiMera legacy while giving fans the dramatic return they’ve been craving.

And Scott has everything it takes to pull it off.

He’s already shown the charisma, menace, and complexity that defined Stefano. Pair that with his emotional depth and longstanding connection to the show, and you have the recipe for a sensational comeback.

😬 But There’s One Huge Obstacle…

James Scott himself.

In 2020, Scott took to social media to declare that he had no intention of returning to Days of Our Lives—or Hollywood at all. His statement was emphatic: “Never, never, never.” Since stepping away from the spotlight, Scott has shifted his focus to a more peaceful life, including a spiritual coaching practice called The Whisper Within. He’s kept a low profile and expressed a desire to move on from acting altogether.

This makes any potential return feel like a long shot. But as any seasoned soap fan will tell you: never say never.

🔥 Could the Right Role Bring Him Back?

Let’s be real—returning as EJ might not have appealed to Scott. But returning as Stefano? That’s a whole different story. A role steeped in legacy, power, and high-stakes drama. The chance to reinvent one of the most iconic villains in soap opera history might be the only thing dramatic enough to entice him.

After all, this wouldn’t just be a comeback. It would be a reinvention. A seismic twist that could shake up Days as it heads into its 60th anniversary in 2025.

And fans are ready.

🗣️ Fan Reactions and Theories: The Internet is Buzzing

On Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and soap forums everywhere, fans are going wild. Some are begging for Scott’s return, calling it “the comeback of the decade.” Others are cautiously optimistic, acknowledging his past comments but still hoping the showrunners have found a way to lure him back.

One popular theory suggests Stefano’s return won’t be physical, but rather a psychological possession. Perhaps EJ isn’t even aware he’s being influenced by his father’s essence—setting the stage for a heart-wrenching battle between EJ’s true self and the emerging Stefano persona.

And don’t forget Sami. Can you imagine the emotional turmoil if she realizes the love of her life has been overtaken by her greatest enemy? It’s a drama goldmine that would put even Marlena’s devil storyline to shame.

💡 What If It’s Not Scott?

Of course, it’s entirely possible that Scott really won’t return—and the show could go another direction. Other actors are being considered for a potential Stefano recast, including soap legends like Vincent Irizarry or Robert Kelker-Kelly. There’s even speculation about a younger actor being introduced through some wild aging twist or clone experiment.

But none of them bring the same symbolic weight, the legacy connection, or the sheer fan passion that James Scott does.

🕊️ A Tribute to Joseph Mascolo—and a New Chapter

There’s no replacing Joseph Mascolo. His portrayal of Stefano was a masterclass in soap villainy, and his legacy still looms large. But perhaps that’s the point. Bringing back Stefano through a new vessel—especially one as connected to the character as James Scott—could honor that legacy while opening a bold new chapter.

Think of it as passing the torch—from father to son, both on-screen and off.

📺 What Happens Next?

Right now, it’s all speculation. But the buzz is loud, and the timing feels right. Days of Our Lives is no stranger to headline-making twists, and a Phoenix reborn in the body of his own son would be one for the history books.

So, what do you think? Could James Scott actually return to Salem as Stefano DiMera? Would you welcome a mind-blowing twist like this, or is the idea too out there—even for Days?

One thing is certain: the fires of fan speculation are burning hotter than ever. And if the Phoenix is about to rise… we’ll be watching every moment.

Stay tuned. 🔥💀🕊️