The winds of change are stirring in Salem, and they carry whispers that could rock the very foundation of Days of Our Lives. At the heart of this seismic shift is none other than Suzanne Rogers—beloved soap veteran, Emmy Award winner, and the iconic face behind Maggie Horton Kiriakis. After more than 50 years of captivating audiences with grace, strength, and heart, Rogers, who recently turned 82, may be preparing to step away from the spotlight. And if she does, it will mark the end of an era.
For decades, Suzanne Rogers has been more than just a star—she’s been a pillar of daytime drama. Since her debut in 1973, her portrayal of Maggie has evolved through tragedy, triumph, and timeless love. But now, the question hanging over Salem is this: Has the time come for this soap legend to take her final bow?
A Lifetime in Salem: The Rise of a Daytime Icon
Suzanne Rogers first graced the screen as Maggie Simmons—a humble farm girl whose quiet resilience and boundless compassion would soon captivate viewers. It didn’t take long for Maggie’s gentle nature to win over fans—and Mickey Horton. Their love story, deeply rooted in shared vulnerability and mutual healing, became a cornerstone of Days of Our Lives, and Rogers’ performance infused every scene with heartfelt sincerity.
Maggie’s life with Mickey was marked by joy and sorrow in equal measure. From facing alcoholism and adoption heartbreaks to standing by Mickey during his mental health battles, Maggie endured it all with grace. Rogers brought authenticity to every twist and turn, elevating Maggie from a side character to the emotional epicenter of Salem. And even after Mickey’s tragic passing, Maggie’s story didn’t end—it simply evolved.
The Next Chapter: Maggie Kiriakis and the Heart of a Dynasty
Following Mickey’s death, Maggie found unexpected love with the enigmatic Victor Kiriakis. Their unlikely pairing challenged conventions and proved that love can bloom again—even after devastating loss. As Victor’s partner, Maggie stepped into the role of matriarch of the powerful Kiriakis family, cementing her as one of Salem’s most respected—and formidable—figures.
In this new chapter, Rogers demonstrated her incredible range. Maggie became the moral compass in a chaotic world, balancing compassion with strength as she navigated the tangled relationships of the Kiriakis clan. Whether guiding her daughter Sarah through emotional turmoil or standing firm against powerful adversaries, Maggie never lost her core identity.
82 Years Young: The Woman Behind the Role
As Suzanne Rogers celebrated her 82nd birthday, fans were treated to stunning new photos that showcased her timeless beauty and unshakable spirit. But these radiant images came with a bittersweet undertone. Could this milestone mark the beginning of a farewell?
The pressures of working on a daily soap are immense—long filming hours, emotionally intense scripts, and constant public scrutiny. Rogers has gracefully carried this load for half a century. But even legends deserve rest. The question now is whether Rogers is ready to trade the fast-paced world of Salem for a quieter life surrounded by family.
A Crossroads of Legacy and Love
If Rogers chooses to step away, her departure won’t just be the end of a storyline—it will be the closing of a defining chapter in soap opera history. Maggie Horton has become more than a character. She’s been a beacon of hope, love, and resilience. Her exit would leave a massive void not only in the show’s fabric but also in the hearts of viewers who grew up watching her journey.
So what could that exit look like? Would Maggie leave Salem to travel the world, seeking new adventures? Or might she quietly retire, choosing peace and family over drama and scandal? Could writers dare to give her a dramatic send-off fitting of her magnitude? Whatever happens, it must honor the profound legacy Rogers has built over five decades.
The Fan Perspective: Torn Between Gratitude and Grief
For fans, the possibility of Rogers’ exit feels almost unthinkable. Social media is buzzing with tributes, birthday wishes, and heartfelt pleas: “Please don’t go, Suzanne!” and “Maggie is the soul of Salem!” are just a few of the sentiments flooding platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
Some believe she’s earned the right to step away and enjoy her golden years. Others feel no one else could possibly fill Maggie’s shoes. One fan summed it up best: “She’s not just a character—she’s family.”
Still a Force to Be Reckoned With
Despite the whispers of retirement, Rogers shows no signs of slowing down. In interviews, she’s expressed a deep love for the role that has shaped her life. Colleagues describe her as a force of nature, bringing Maggie to life with the same vigor today as she did in 1973. Her connection to Maggie is profound—so much so that walking away could feel like saying goodbye to a part of herself.
But even legends know when the curtain must fall. Whether this moment comes in 2025 or years later, it will be marked by reverence, celebration, and overwhelming emotion.
What’s Next for Maggie Horton Kiriakis?
The writers of Days of Our Lives now face a daunting task: preparing for the possible exit of one of their most beloved characters. Maggie’s storyline has recently focused on her steadying presence in the Kiriakis family and her daughter Sarah’s challenges. There’s still life left in her story—but for how long?
If this truly is the beginning of the end, viewers deserve a fitting farewell. One that pays tribute to a lifetime of service to the show, to the character, and to millions of loyal fans.
A Legacy That Will Never Fade
Whether Suzanne Rogers decides to retire tomorrow or continues to grace our screens for years to come, her legacy is firmly cemented. She has redefined what it means to be a soap opera star—not just through the longevity of her role, but through the depth, grace, and integrity she has brought to Maggie Horton Kiriakis.
So, Days fans, what do you think? Is it time for Suzanne Rogers to pass the torch and enjoy the joys of family life? Or do you hope to see Maggie weather more storms in Salem? One thing is certain: if Suzanne Rogers does decide to step away, her light will never dim.