The world of daytime drama has been shaken by a shocking revelation — Judi Evans, one of the most beloved stars of Days of Our Lives, is

officially saying goodbye to Salem after two decades on the show. The news of her departure comes as a heartbreaking blow to fans who

have followed her journey as Adrienne Kiriakis and Bonnie Lockhart, characters who have left an indelible mark on the long-running NBC soap.

 

 

A Sudden Announcement

The announcement of Judi Evans’ departure was made public late Sunday night, sending shockwaves through the soap opera community. Sources confirm that after more than 20 years of captivating audiences with her powerful performances, Evans has chosen to step away from Days of Our Lives.

While the exact reasons remain private, insiders reveal that the actress is ready to explore new opportunities outside Salem. Her exit was described as “amicable” but nonetheless unexpected, especially since her character was heavily featured in ongoing storylines.

Judi Evans’ Legacy on DOOL

 

 

Evans first joined Days of Our Lives in 1986 as Adrienne Johnson, later Adrienne Kiriakis, a role that quickly made her a fan favorite. Known for her emotional depth and on-screen chemistry with Wally Kurth (Justin Kiriakis), Evans helped cement Adrienne and Justin as one of Salem’s most beloved couples.

Years later, Evans took on the dual challenge of playing Bonnie Lockhart, a quirky and often mischievous character whose antics brought comic relief and chaos to the canvas. Few actresses could embody two such different personalities with such conviction, but Evans’ talent made both characters unforgettable.

Her versatility and commitment earned her recognition not just from fans but also from industry peers. Over the years, Evans became one of the most respected actresses in daytime television, admired for her ability to shift seamlessly between drama, romance, and humor.

Reaction From Cast and Crew

The cast of Days of Our Lives has been vocal about their sadness over Evans’ exit.

Wally Kurth (Justin Kiriakis) expressed his heartbreak: “Judi has been my partner on-screen and off for decades. Working with her has been one of the greatest joys of my career. Salem won’t be the same without her.”

Deidre Hall (Marlena Evans) added: “Judi is the kind of actress who elevates every scene she’s in. We will miss her warmth, her humor, and her extraordinary talent.”

Crew members behind the scenes praised her professionalism and kindness, describing her as someone who always treated colleagues like family.

Fans in Shock

Fans of the show immediately took to social media to share their grief and disbelief. Hashtags like #ThankYouJudi and #DOOLLegend began trending as longtime viewers reflected on her best moments.

One fan wrote: “I grew up watching Adrienne and Justin. Judi Evans made me believe in love stories. Her leaving feels like losing a piece of Salem history.”

Another added: “Bonnie always made me laugh, Adrienne always made me cry. Judi gave us everything. DOOL won’t be the same without her.”

The emotional response highlights just how deeply Judi Evans has been woven into the fabric of Days of Our Lives and its loyal fanbase.

What This Means for Salem

Spoilers indicate that Evans’ departure will force Days of Our Lives writers to pivot dramatically. Adrienne’s storyline with Justin had been heating up again, with new twists on the horizon, while Bonnie was involved in a chaotic family scheme.

According to insiders, producers are working quickly to craft an exit storyline that honors Evans’ legacy while leaving the door open for a possible return in the future. While no official details have been confirmed, fans can expect emotional goodbyes, shocking revelations, and perhaps a bittersweet farewell episode.

A Look Back: Judi Evans’ Soap Opera Journey

Beyond Days of Our Lives, Evans boasts an impressive career in daytime television. She first rose to fame on Guiding Light, where she played Beth Raines and won a Daytime Emmy Award in 1984. Later, she joined Another World as Paulina Cory, proving her ability to bring authenticity and charm to every role she tackled.

Her move to Days of Our Lives cemented her as a daytime icon, with her dual roles allowing her to showcase an unparalleled range. For decades, Evans has been a cornerstone of the soap opera genre, beloved for her sincerity, humor, and timeless screen presence.

What’s Next for Judi Evans?

While Evans has not yet revealed her next project, rumors suggest she may be considering opportunities outside daytime television, including primetime guest roles, stage work, and even writing. In a brief statement, she assured fans that this is not a retirement, but rather the start of a new chapter.

“Playing Adrienne and Bonnie has been a gift. I’m forever grateful to the fans who welcomed me into their lives for so many years. This isn’t goodbye, it’s just see you later.”

Conclusion: The End of an Era

Judi Evans’ departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Days of Our Lives history. For 20 years, she brought Salem to life with her unforgettable performances, becoming a trusted presence in fans’ daily lives.

As Salem braces for her absence, one thing is certain: Judi Evans’ legacy will continue to resonate long after her final episode airs. Fans will miss her dearly, but her impact on Days of Our Lives — and on the entire soap opera world — will never be forgotten.