Salem is reeling from an emotional earthquake, one that no one saw coming. In a twist more dramatic than anything written into the script, Days of Our Lives is about to lose one of its rising stars—and fans are scrambling for answers. The face behind one of the show’s most emotionally grounded characters, Javi Hernandez, is making an abrupt and unexpected exit. And now, the burning question echoes through every soap-loving home: Who will step into the role next?

💥 Calderon’s Shocking Departure

The news broke like a bolt of lightning. Al Calderon, whose portrayal of Javi Hernandez injected raw vulnerability and stirring resilience into the Days universe, has officially stepped away from his role. His powerful performance since Javi’s debut on October 28, 2024, captured hearts as he navigated love, grief, and family entanglements. But now, Calderon is set to join the cast of the acclaimed medical drama Brilliant Minds, where he’ll become a series regular alongside the legendary Zachary Quinto.

Fans were caught off guard not only by the decision but also by the timing. Due to Days of Our Lives’ unique production cycle—filming episodes months in advance—Calderon’s final scenes are expected to air well into 2026, creating a strange duality: viewers will still see Javi on screen long after the actor has left the role.

🕵️‍♂️ A Recasting Mystery Begins…

With Calderon’s exit confirmed, Days producers have remained tight-lipped, offering only this cryptic reassurance: “Javi is alive and well in Salem.” Cue the speculation. From Reddit threads to Twitter theories, fans are convinced this phrasing is code for a recast—and not a character write-off.

And that makes sense. Javi isn’t just another minor character. His storylines—ranging from a passionate romance with Leo Stark to becoming a foster parent and navigating family inheritance drama—have made him an emotional centerpiece on the canvas of Salem.

💔 Javi’s Journey: From Grief to Unexpected Fatherhood

To understand why Javi’s recast is such a big deal, we need to revisit the rollercoaster of his time in Salem.

He entered town grieving the recent loss of his mother. Seeking comfort, he was welcomed into the Hernandez family, sharing connections with cousins Rafe and Gabby. His integration into this already tight-knit clan brought new emotional dimensions to characters long-established in the Days universe.

Then came Leo Stark—a wildcard love interest who quickly became the most vital part of Javi’s story. Their chemistry was electric from the start. But this wasn’t a fairytale romance. Leo and Javi weathered storms—including a brutal misunderstanding over leaked information to the press. What saved them was emotional honesty. Their willingness to talk, cry, and forgive brought authenticity to their love story rarely seen in daytime TV.

And just when we thought the emotional stakes couldn’t get higher, the duo decided to foster a baby—a newborn left at the fire station where Javi worked. Naming him Toro, they plunged headfirst into parenthood, navigating sleepless nights and heart-melting bonding scenes that resonated with viewers everywhere. Suddenly, Javi was no longer just a grieving newcomer—he was a father, a partner, and a pillar of strength.

🔥 Family Tensions: More Than Just Romance

Of course, Javi’s Salem experience extended far beyond Leo. His relationship with Gabby offered moments of both comedy and grit, as she fiercely protected her cousin and challenged his every decision with tough love. Meanwhile, his emotional journey with Rafe took a surprising twist when a family heirloom—meant for Javi—was instead left to Rafe. That one choice forced the two men to confront not just family history, but the very foundation of what it means to grieve, forgive, and move forward.

These were not fleeting side plots. They were emotionally charged, deeply human arcs that made Javi’s presence in Salem irreplaceable—which makes the search for the next actor even more crucial.

🎭 Who Could Fill These Shoes? The Top Contenders

Let’s talk replacement. If Javi is to be recast—and all signs point that way—then Days of Our Lives must tread carefully. Several strong candidates have already emerged as fan favorites and industry suggestions:

• Alex Allegria: Known for his work on Beyond the Gates, Allegria has proven he can balance romantic chaos with quiet emotional depth. He could continue Javi’s love story with Leo while adding new fire to family tensions.

• Jason Canela: Soap veteran from The Young and the Restless, Canela would bring both experience and credibility. His past with daytime drama ensures he knows how to handle emotionally charged scenes—especially those revolving around family and romance.

• Brian Craig: A two-time Daytime Emmy winner for his work as Morgan Corinthos on General Hospital, Craig has the pedigree and range to take Javi’s character even deeper. His return to GH to support his father during a mental health crisis was a masterclass in vulnerability.

• Chance Perez: Real-life paramedic and actor, Chance Perez starred as Javi Garcia in Power Rangers Dino Fury. His real-world EMS experience could add an authentic layer to Javi’s role as a first responder—and his musical fame could also draw in a younger fanbase.

• Diego Tinoco: Best known for his role in On My Block, Tinoco’s ability to mix comedy with serious emotion makes him a wildcard but compelling candidate. His youth and rising star status could usher in a fresh era for the character.

🧬 The Stakes Are Higher Than Ever

Javi isn’t just an individual character—he’s a cornerstone of multiple storylines. Whoever takes over must:

• Continue the heart-wrenching romance with Leo Stark

• Maintain the chemistry and conflict with the Hernandez family

• Tackle the emotional complexity of parenting Baby Toro

• Build upon the legacy Calderon leaves behind

It’s not just about reciting lines. It’s about carrying emotional weight that spans grief, love, trust, and sacrifice.

🌪️ The Road Ahead for Salem

Al Calderon’s Javi Hernandez was a reminder of what makes soap operas unforgettable: raw emotion, complex relationships, and characters who feel real. As the show prepares for a new face to carry this torch, fans can’t help but feel a mix of anxiety and anticipation.

Will Days of Our Lives find an actor who can match Calderon’s layered portrayal? Or will this transition mark a new chapter for the character altogether?

One thing’s for sure: Javi Hernandez’s journey is far from over. The next actor to don his shoes won’t just be stepping into a role—they’ll be stepping into a legacy.

So… who’s next, Salem? 👀💥
Stay tuned.