If there’s one thing Days of Our Lives is known for, it’s the unbelievable twists and turns that keep fans on the edge of their seats. And nothing stirs up more excitement (and sometimes confusion) than a character who returns from the dead.
Whether it’s through an elaborate scheme, a mistaken identity, or a miraculous recovery, Days knows how to keep the drama alive—literally! Let’s look at five unforgettable times Days of Our Lives brought characters back from the dead.
1. Jack Deveraux’s Many Lives
Jack Deveraux, known for his charm and sometimes bumbling antics, has become synonymous with defying death in Days of Our Lives.
Over the years, Jack has been presumed dead not once, but several times! Fans have watched him fall off a cliff, die in an explosion, and seemingly perish in a car accident. Each time, his family and friends mourned his loss, and each time, Jack found a miraculous way back to Salem.
What Led to Jack’s Supposed Death?
One of the most memorable moments was when Jack was caught in an elevator crash. The accident was so intense that everyone in Salem believed Jack had met his end for good. His wife, Jennifer, was left devastated and struggled to move on while holding onto the memories of their life together.
Impact on Other Characters
Jack’s supposed death had a deep emotional impact on his family. Jennifer, his wife, faced the heartbreaking task of raising their children alone while coping with the loss of her soulmate.
When Jack made his surprise return, it wasn’t just a joyful reunion—it was a chance for the Deveraux family to find happiness again after years of heartache.
Memorable Quote
When Jack reappeared, one of his most iconic lines was, “What? You didn’t think I’d leave you for good, did you?” This line perfectly captured Jack’s sense of humor and determination to be with his family, no matter the odds.
Why Fans Loved It
Jack’s return wasn’t just about the shock factor; it was about giving the Deveraux family another chance at happiness.
Plus, his signature sense of humor and charm always made his comebacks special. Viewers were thrilled to see their favorite character return and pick up right where he left off.
2. Stefano DiMera – The Phoenix Rises Again
Stefano DiMera, the master manipulator and arch-nemesis to many in Salem, earned the nickname “The Phoenix” for his ability to rise from the ashes.
Over the years, Stefano has been shot, poisoned, drowned, and seemingly died in several other ways. But no matter how many times he was declared dead, Stefano always found a way to come back stronger than ever.
What Led to Stefano’s Supposed Death?
Stefano’s most dramatic “death” came when he was seemingly killed off after being shot by Hope. Everyone believed it was the end of the infamous DiMera patriarch, and his enemies began to let their guard down.
Impact on Other Characters
Stefano’s death initially brought a sense of relief to many residents of Salem, who believed that the reign of terror was finally over.
His children, however, were left to grapple with the idea of losing their father for good. But in classic Stefano style, his return threw Salem into chaos once again, reminding everyone that they could never truly escape his influence.
Memorable Quote
When Stefano made his triumphant return, he simply declared, “A Phoenix never truly dies,” solidifying his legacy as the villain who could always find a way back.
Why Fans Loved It
Stefano’s returns kept everyone on their toes. Just when things seemed to calm down in Salem, Stefano’s return brought a whole new wave of chaos. Fans loved the suspense and the thrill of seeing their favorite villain back to shake things up.
3. Marlena Evans’ Resurrection
Marlena Evans, the beloved psychiatrist and pillar of Salem, experienced one of the most famous resurrections in Days of Our Lives history.
Her supposed death was a gut-wrenching moment for viewers, and it took an even stranger turn when supernatural elements were introduced into the storyline.
What Led to Marlena’s Supposed Death?
The storyline began when Marlena became possessed by the devil—a storyline that shocked viewers and pushed the boundaries of what a soap opera could do.
After a series of bizarre events, Marlena’s character was seemingly killed off, leaving fans heartbroken.
Impact on Other Characters
Marlena’s death shook Salem to its core. Her family and friends were left devastated, trying to pick up the pieces of their lives without her. Her husband, John, was especially hit hard and had to grapple with the impossible task of moving on.
Memorable Quote
When Marlena returned, her iconic line was, “It wasn’t my time to leave you yet,” a statement that resonated deeply with fans who couldn’t imagine the show without her.
Why Fans Loved It
Marlena’s resurrection wasn’t just a plot twist; it was a testament to her character’s resilience and strength.
Fans rallied behind Marlena, and her return marked a new chapter in her already eventful life. Her storylines often blend suspense, emotion, and supernatural elements, which keep viewers coming back for more.
4. EJ DiMera’s Shocking Comeback
EJ DiMera’s story is a classic soap opera tale of love, betrayal, and survival. As the son of Stefano DiMera, EJ had a complex relationship with the other residents of Salem.
His supposed death left a void not only in his family’s lives but also in the lives of fans who followed his every move.
What Led to EJ’s Supposed Death?
After a dramatic confrontation, EJ was shot and left for dead. His death seemed final, and fans were devastated to see him go, especially since his relationship with Sami was left unresolved.
Impact on Other Characters
Sami’s grief over EJ’s death was a pivotal moment in the show. She struggled with anger, regret, and loss, believing she had lost the love of her life.
EJ’s sudden and unexpected return years later flipped everything upside down, reigniting old feelings and opening up unresolved tensions.
Memorable Quote
When EJ made his return, his simple but impactful line, “You didn’t think you could get rid of me that easily, did you?” left fans buzzing with excitement.
Why Fans Loved It
EJ’s return wasn’t just a shock; it reignited the complicated and passionate relationship between him and Sami, leaving fans eager to see what would happen next.
This storyline had viewers hooked, waiting to see how their favorite couple would handle this new twist.
5. Will Horton’s Miraculous Revival
Will Horton’s death was one of the most emotional moments in Days of Our Lives history. After being strangled by the infamous Necktie Killer, Will’s death left fans devastated, and many believed they’d never see him again. But, in true Days fashion, Will’s story was far from over.
What Led to Will’s Supposed Death?
Will’s death at the hands of the Necktie Killer was a brutal and emotional moment. The loss was felt deeply by his family, friends, and the entire town of Salem.
Impact on Other Characters
Will’s death affected everyone in Salem, but none more so than his mother, Sami, and his husband, Sonny. Their grief was palpable, and both characters struggled to cope with the loss of someone so central to their lives. When Will was later revealed to be alive, it was a moment of pure joy for his loved ones and viewers alike.
Memorable Quote
Upon regaining his memory, Will tearfully said, “I remember everything now,” a line that brought closure to his traumatic ordeal and the heartbreak of those who loved him.
Why Fans Loved It
Will’s return gave viewers a chance to see the character they loved reclaim his life and reunite with his loved ones, making it a heartwarming and satisfying comeback. It was a moment that fans had hoped for and one that left a lasting impact on the show’s history.
Final Thoughts
Bringing characters back from the dead might seem like a wild plot twist, but it’s a staple of Days of Our Lives. These returns keep fans engaged, wondering who might come back next and how they’ll explain the impossible. Whether it’s for shock value or to give beloved characters a second chance, these resurrections are a big part of what makes the show so captivating.
Did You Know?
Here’s a fun fact: Stefano DiMera, played by the late Joseph Mascolo, was “killed off” over a dozen times during his tenure on the show, solidifying his reputation as the unkillable villain! Each return was carefully orchestrated to shock and thrill the audience.
What’s Your Favorite Comeback?
Which Days of Our Lives character’s return from the dead shocked you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s relive the drama together!
Poll: Who Had the Most Shocking Return in Days of Our Lives?
- Jack Deveraux
- Stefano DiMera
- Marlena Evans
- EJ DiMera
- Will Horton
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