Fans of Days of Our Lives are in for a dramatic shakeup as new cast members prepare to inject fresh energy, intrigue, and emotion into Salem. From the highly anticipated debut of Connor Floyd as Chad DiMera to the mystery surrounding the next generation of child characters, the upcoming recasts promise high-stakes drama, romance, and family chaos. Here’s an exclusive look at what’s coming.

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Connor Floyd Steps Into Chad DiMera’s Shoes

In April 2026, Connor Floyd will officially take over the role of Chad DiMera, succeeding Billy Flynn, who has portrayed the character since 2014. Floyd’s portrayal is expected to bring new dimensions to Chad, exploring both his ruthless business acumen inherited from Stefano DiMera and the vulnerable side seen in his relationships with Abigail and their children.

Fans can imagine Chad returning to Salem, the Grand DeMera mansion looming in the background, ready to face corporate intrigue, old rivals, and family secrets. Social media buzz is already high, with fans debating how Connor will honor Chad’s legacy while infusing the character with his own style.

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Sydney Malikica to Recast Ariana

Next on the horizon is Sydney Malikica, rumored to take over the role of Ariana, replacing Marissa Reyes. Ariana has long been a character defined by passion, moral dilemmas, and intense family drama. Sydney’s background in theater and guest appearances on prime-time shows suggest she can bring emotional depth, vulnerability, and fire to the role.

Her debut is expected to coincide with major story arcs, possibly uncovering long-buried secrets or reigniting romance and rivalries in Salem. Fans are excited to see how Sydney will navigate Ariana’s tangled relationships while leaving her own mark on the character.

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Jacob Martinez to Take Over Javi Hernandez

Following Al Calderon’s departure in May 2026 to join NBC’s Brilliant Minds, Jacob Martinez is set to step into the role of Javi Hernandez. With experience in independent films and theater, Jacob could explore the darker, edgier sides of Javi’s character, introducing new storylines involving romance, loyalty, and moral dilemmas.

The transition is expected to be dramatic yet seamless, possibly involving classic soap tropes like accidents, trips abroad, or secret twin twists. Jacob’s debut may coincide with heightened drama, including potential love triangles, family conflicts, and hidden truths about Javi’s heritage.

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Next Generation: Rachel and Thomas

Adding intrigue to Salem’s evolving landscape are the mystery child actors set to play Rachel and Thomas. These characters represent the next generation, bringing innocence but often finding themselves caught in the crossfire of adult schemes. Their stories may involve family secrets, custody battles, or even perilous adventures, setting the stage for future drama in Salem.

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Why These Recasts Matter

Recasts in long-running soaps like Days of Our Lives are more than just actor swaps—they reinvigorate storylines, spark new rivalries, and provide fresh opportunities for drama. Characters like Chad, Ariana, and Javi are central to Salem’s intricate web of relationships, and new portrayals can shift dynamics, reveal hidden truths, and heighten tension across the town.

Social media plays a crucial role in building anticipation. Fans are already analyzing Instagram follows, spotting cast interactions, and theorizing about how the new actors will shape Salem’s future. Whether it’s Connor Floyd’s nuanced Chad, Sydney Malikica’s fiery Ariana, or Jacob Martinez’s intense Javi, viewers can expect explosive storylines and unforgettable moments.