Salem is about to get a dramatic facelift as three major recasts prepare to shake up the storylines on Days of Our Lives. Fans of the Peacock soap can expect new actors stepping into legacy roles, bringing fresh energy, tension, and intrigue to the town’s ever-evolving drama. Here’s what we know so far.

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Connor Floyd Takes Over as Chad DiMera
After Billy Flynn departed the role of Chad DiMera to appear as Cane on The Young and the Restless, Connor Floyd, formerly known for his role as Chance in Genoa City, is set to step into the DiMera legacy. Floyd’s arrival in Salem is scheduled for April 2026, giving fans several months to anticipate how he will bring his own take to Chad’s complex mix of ambition, vulnerability, and family loyalty.

Connor’s debut marks a new chapter for the DiMera family, promising to reinvigorate storylines involving corporate intrigue, romantic entanglements, and heated rivalries. Will he lean into Chad’s darker, more cunning side, or highlight his softer relationships with Abigail and their children? The anticipation is palpable.

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Rachel Black to Be Recast

Brady and Kristen’s daughter, Rachel Black, is also set to see a new actress take over in March 2026. Alice Halsey, who has been portraying Rachel, is stepping away to lead Netflix’s Little House on the Prairie reboot as Laura Ingalls. While the new actress has not yet been announced, fans can expect a fresh interpretation of the character, maintaining the emotional depth and family dynamics that make Rachel a beloved figure in Salem.

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Arianna Horton’s Role to Change Hands

Finally, Marissa Reyes, who has brought Arianna Horton to life since May 2025, will be leaving the role. The new actress is set to appear starting in April 2026, though details remain under wraps. Ari’s storylines often intertwine with major plots — including romances, family secrets, and corporate schemes — making this recast especially impactful for the unfolding drama in Salem.

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Impact of Recasts on Salem Storylines

Recasts are a staple of long-running soap operas, allowing characters to evolve and keep storylines fresh. With Chad, Rachel, and Ari all receiving new faces, viewers can expect a period of adjustment, speculation, and excitement as these actors make their mark. From corporate battles at the DiMera mansion to complicated family dynamics and new romantic sparks, Salem is poised for explosive drama in 2026.

Fans can also revisit last week’s episodes with a fresh perspective as these changes set the stage for new alliances, betrayals, and twists. The next few months promise to be full of suspense, heartache, and unforgettable moments in Salem.