Days of Our Lives: Heartbreaking Goodbye to Rafe and Rex, But 3 Other Stars Have Returned

Salem is about to experience another tidal wave of emotional farewells, stunning returns, and jaw-dropping twists that will leave viewers speechless. Just when fans thought they could relax after the joyful reunion of the Hernandez family, Days of Our Lives drops a devastating bombshell: Rafe Hernandez could be leaving Salem — and this time, it might be for good.

After years of providing stability and steadfast loyalty, Rafe’s place in Salem is in serious jeopardy. In a heart-wrenching moment on Friday’s episode, Rafe had a soul-baring conversation with Jada Hunter where he revealed he plans to resign from Black Patch and take a new job out of town. Jada’s earlier decision to quit her position triggered a chain reaction, forcing Rafe to confront how much his life in Salem has changed. With both his career and personal life unraveling, Rafe is left with no easy way forward.

Though there’s been no official confirmation about actor Galen Gering’s future on the show, the storyline points to an inevitable departure. With Belle and EJ’s romance heating up and Jada potentially growing closer to Shawn Brady, Rafe seems to be slowly getting pushed out, both professionally and emotionally. His exit would mark the end of an era for many fans who have cherished his grounded presence.

As viewers hold their breath for a possible last-minute twist that could keep Rafe in Salem, the sadness deepens with yet another farewell: Kyle Lowder, who portrays Rex Brady, has also wrapped up his latest stint. Rex’s return stirred up plenty of old feelings and unfinished business, particularly in matters of the heart. But as quickly as he reappeared, Rex is now heading back out of town, leaving fans wondering if he’ll ever find lasting happiness.

Yet amid the heartbreak, Days of Our Lives delivers a glimmer of hope. Veteran soap star Michael Dietz is making a triumphant return to daytime television, debuting as Dr. Jeffrey Russell. Starting April 30th, Dr. Russell will play a critical role in an intense and emotional storyline. Holding the key to a potentially life-saving experimental drug, Dr. Russell becomes a pivotal figure in the desperate race to save Bo Brady’s life.

With Caleb Brady pleading for the miracle drug to save his loved one, Dr. Russell remains firm, citing ethical boundaries. But Salem is a town where loyalty and love often outweigh rules. In a daring move, Steve “Patch” Johnson and Shawn Brady hatch a dangerous plan to steal the drug. As the suspense builds toward Friday’s cliffhanger, viewers are left wondering: will their risky gamble succeed, or will it end in tragedy?

Michael Dietz’s return breathes fresh energy into the show, and his character’s moral conflicts promise to add layers of gripping drama in the weeks ahead.

And that’s not all — Salem will soon welcome back even more familiar faces! Felicity Green and Rita Leslie are set to return the week of April 28th through May 2nd, bringing with them fresh complications and drama. Longtime fans are particularly buzzing about Amy Choy’s comeback, with insiders teasing that her storyline will have a profound and lasting impact on the town’s already tangled relationships.

In addition, the eccentric and beloved Susan Banks, played by Stacy Haiduk, is poised to steal the spotlight once again. However, this time, Susan’s usual comic antics give way to something far darker. Haunted by chilling visions and a growing sense of dread, Susan becomes convinced that her nephew Johnny DiMera is hiding a monstrous secret. Could Johnny be responsible for a devastating crime that could tear the DiMera family apart?

As tension builds between Johnny and EJ, Susan’s warnings — dismissed by many as the ramblings of a quirky mind — may turn out to be frighteningly accurate. The days ahead promise intense confrontations, shocking revelations, and emotional fallout that will keep viewers glued to their screens.

Back to Rafe and Jada — in a deeply emotional and raw series of scenes, the pair finally confront the truth about their unraveling relationship. Despite their strong bond and the memories they share, trust and timing have taken an irreparable toll. Jada quietly acknowledges that too much damage has been done, and although there’s still love between them, it’s not enough to bridge the growing gap.

Fighting through his heartbreak, Rafe agrees that it’s time for them to part ways. He then makes the painful decision to leave Black Patch behind, accepting a new position offered by his old boss — a move that will take him far from Salem, and from the life he fought so hard to build.

As April melts into May, Days of Our Lives is hurtling toward a season filled with seismic changes. With two beloved characters saying goodbye, thrilling comebacks on the horizon, and life-altering secrets threatening to erupt, Salem’s future has never been more uncertain — or more exciting.

Buckle up, Days fans. The road ahead promises heartache, hope, and plenty of jaw-dropping surprises.