Over the years, Days of Our Lives has pintroduced countless characters, each with their own unique backstory and style. However, some characters made such unforgettable entrances that they left viewers buzzing for days.
These entrances weren’t just scenes—they were statements. Here are five of the best character entrances on Days of Our Lives that left a lasting impression on fans.
1. Stefano DiMera’s Arrival: The Rise of the Phoenix
Stefano DiMera is one of the most iconic villains in soap opera history, and his entrance on Days of Our Lives set the tone for what fans could expect from this notorious character. Stefano’s first appearance immediately exuded power and danger.
Arriving in Salem with wealth, influence, and a sinister agenda, he made it clear that no one was safe from his schemes. His entrance was a defining moment for the show, introducing the “Phoenix” who would go on to be a central figure in countless storylines.
Why It Was Memorable: Stefano’s arrival marked the beginning of the epic DiMera saga. His menacing presence and ruthless nature captivated fans and left them eager to see how he would shape the future of Salem.
Setting the Scene: Stefano’s entrance took place in the opulent surroundings of his mansion, where he was seen orchestrating a plan that hinted at his darker intentions. The lavish setting only added to his air of mystery and power.
Fan Reactions: Fans couldn’t get enough of the mysterious Stefano, who seemed to be at the center of every major scheme in Salem. Social media buzzed with discussions about how he would impact beloved characters and what kind of chaos he would unleash next.
Quote to Remember: “In time, you will all bow before the power of the Phoenix,” Stefano once declared, a line that has since become symbolic of his reign over Salem.
2. Hope’s Return as Princess Gina
One of the most memorable entrances came when Hope Brady, long presumed dead, returned to Salem—but not as herself. She arrived as the glamorous and mysterious Princess Gina, completely transformed by a plot that left everyone stunned.
Her new look, accent, and confidence made her entrance unforgettable. Fans were left shocked to see the beloved Hope turned into a royal figure, far removed from her previous life.
Why It Was Memorable: The surprise factor made this entrance so iconic. Hope’s transformation into Princess Gina was not just a physical change but a complete shift in her character, leaving fans guessing about what would come next.
Setting the Scene: Princess Gina’s first appearance took place in an elegant ballroom, surrounded by luxury and sophistication. Hope, now fully embracing her new identity, was wearing an elegant gown and addressing the crowd with a regal demeanor that was worlds apart from the Hope Brady everyone knew.
Fan Reactions: Viewers were divided between excitement over the new storyline and longing for the return of the real Hope. Online fan communities debated whether Hope would ever break free from the Princess Gina persona or if this would change her forever.
Quote to Remember: In her new persona, Gina once said, “Hope? Oh, darling, Hope is gone. I am Princess Gina, and you will address me as such.”
3. Marlena’s Possession Unleashed
Though not technically an “entrance,” Marlena Evans’s possession and the dramatic scene where she fully embraced the evil spirit was a re-entrance into a dark storyline for this beloved character.
Her eyes glowing yellow, her eerie smile, and her deep, menacing voice all signaled to fans that the old Marlena was gone, replaced by something sinister. This chilling moment stunned viewers and cemented Days of Our Lives as a show willing to push the boundaries.
Why It Was Memorable: Marlena’s possession wasn’t just a storyline—it was a game-changer. Her eerie transformation left fans both scared and fascinated, setting a new standard for how far the show would go.
Setting the Scene: The possession was revealed in a dimly lit room, with eerie music playing in the background. As Marlena’s eyes turned yellow and her voice took on a sinister tone, the atmosphere was thick with suspense.
Fan Reactions: Fans flooded online forums with theories and reactions to Marlena’s possession. Some praised the storyline’s boldness, while others were shocked that a beloved character like Marlena could go to such dark places.
Quote to Remember: As Marlena’s transformation took hold, she whispered with a chilling smile, “The evil has only just begun.”
Fun Fact: The possession storyline became a cultural phenomenon, even earning mentions in mainstream media for its unexpected and controversial nature. The writers took a risk with this plot, and it paid off by cementing Marlena’s storyline in daytime TV history.
4. Kristen DiMera’s Masked Reveal
Kristen DiMera knows how to make an entrance, but perhaps her most memorable one was when she was revealed to be posing as Susan Banks. Throughout the storyline, Kristen had been hiding in plain sight under a mask, fooling everyone in Salem.
The moment her true identity was unveiled was a shocking and dramatic entrance that left both characters and viewers stunned. Kristen’s penchant for deception made every one of her reveals worth watching.
Why It Was Memorable: The big reveal felt like a movie moment, with layers of deception unfolding and keeping fans glued to their screens. It was a masterclass in suspense and surprise.
Setting the Scene: The big unmasking took place during a dramatic confrontation, where tensions were high, and the stakes were even higher. The lighting and close-up shots of the characters’ reactions added to the suspense, making the reveal even more powerful.
Fan Reactions: Fans expressed their disbelief online, sharing their excitement over the reveal and speculating about Kristen’s next move. The unexpected twist had viewers talking for weeks, with many praising the show for keeping them on their toes.
Quote to Remember: Kristen, upon being unmasked, smirked and said, “Surprised? You should know by now—I’m full of surprises.”
5. Ben Weston’s Rebirth as the “Necktie Killer”
Ben Weston’s transformation into the “Necktie Killer” was one of the most chilling entrances in recent Days history. Once seen as an average guy, Ben’s dark side was revealed when he made his entrance into this new role, delivering one of the most shocking twists the show has ever seen.
His sudden, sinister turn and the tension of each of his attacks had viewers on edge, completely changing the perception of his character.
Why It Was Memorable: Ben’s entrance as the “Necktie Killer” took everyone by surprise. It was a daring storyline that turned an unassuming character into one of the most terrifying villains the show has ever seen.
Setting the Scene: The first reveal of Ben’s dark side took place in a secluded room, with dim lighting and eerie silence. As Ben tightened the necktie around his victim’s neck, the camera focused on his cold expression, signaling his transformation from average guy to ruthless killer.
Fan Reactions: Fans were both horrified and captivated by Ben’s drastic change. Many expressed their shock online, with discussions revolving around whether Ben could ever find redemption or if he was too far gone.
Quote to Remember: In a chilling moment, Ben whispered to his victim, “You’ll always remember me as the last face you saw.”
Behind the Scenes: The writers of Days wanted to create a storyline that would completely alter fans’ perception of Ben. Actor Robert Scott Wilson’s portrayal of Ben’s descent into darkness earned praise from viewers and critics alike.
Conclusion: The Impact of a Great Entrance
A memorable entrance can set the stage for a character’s entire storyline. From Stefano DiMera’s ominous debut to Ben Weston’s chilling transformation, these entrances are what keep fans of Days of Our Lives coming back for more. They’re not just introductions—they’re statements, letting viewers know that something big is coming there way!