Kristian Alfonso, who has starred in NBC’s ”Days of Our Lives” for more than three decades, is departing the long-running soap.
Alfonso, who joined the show as central character Hope Williams Brady in 1983, issued a statement Monday saying she won’t be back when the show resumes production on Sept. 1, after having been shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic. Aside from two short breaks, she has played the character over a 37-year run.
“Days,” which films months in advance of broadcast, is still airing new episodes and has already filmed Alfonso’s final appearance. Corday Productions, which produces the show in association with Sony Pictures Television, confirmed Alfonso’s departure but declined to provide details regarding the timing and circumstances of the character’s goodbye.
I feel blessed and honored to have been invited into people’s homes for over three decades. However, it is now time for me to write my next chapter. I will not be returning to Days when it resumes production in September,” Alfonso said in her statement. “I’ve already filmed my last episode several months ago.”
Deadlinefirst reported the news Monday. Alfonso then posted her statement on Instagram.
In the statement, Alfonso referred to “Days” as “a vital part of both my personal and professional journey” and expressed appreciation for “lifelong friendships with my extraordinarily talented castmates” and “one of the hardest working crews in all of television, many of whom have become part of my extended family.”
She also thanked the show’s devoted fans.
“Finally — to the incredibly loyal fans of Days — many of you have been with me on this journey from the beginning. I cannot thank you enough for your generosity, love and support. I could not have done it without YOU!!!” she wrote.
