Soap fans are reeling after longtime Days of Our Lives actor Wally Kurth dropped bombshell news that has left viewers questioning the fate

of one of Salem’s most beloved characters, Justin Kiriakis. Known for his smooth charm, quiet strength, and complicated family loyalties,

Justin has been a steady presence on the show for decades — and now, rumors are swirling that his time on the canvas may be coming to an end.

 

 

Kurth’s Surprising Revelation

In a candid new interview, Wally Kurth opened up about his future on the iconic NBC/Peacock soap, sparking concern among fans. When asked about his long-term commitment to playing Justin, Kurth admitted that he has been reflecting on his career, his family life, and what he wants the next chapter to look like.

“I’ve been blessed to play Justin for so many years,” Kurth said. “But there comes a point where you stop and think — how long do I keep doing this? Do I pass the torch? Or do I keep going until they write me out?”

The statement immediately sent shockwaves across the Days fandom. While Kurth did not explicitly confirm he was leaving, his words raised eyebrows, leaving many to speculate that he may be preparing to step away.

 

 

The Importance of Justin Kiriakis

Justin is not just another soap character — he is a cornerstone of Salem’s legacy. First introduced in 1987, Justin quickly became a fan favorite, entangled in love triangles, family drama, and high-stakes legal battles. His relationships with Adrienne, Bonnie, and more recently with Maggie and other Salem residents, have kept him at the heart of countless storylines.

Justin also carries the Kiriakis family name, a dynasty forever tied to power struggles, business empires, and emotional showdowns. Losing him would not just impact one character; it would reshape the fabric of Salem itself.

Why Now?

Kurth’s revelation comes at a time when many daytime dramas are facing transitions. With veteran actors aging, contracts shifting, and streaming platforms changing the way soaps are produced, Days of Our Lives has seen its share of major exits and returns.

Insiders suggest Kurth has been weighing his options carefully, balancing his soap commitments with other projects, including his music career. For those who don’t know, Wally Kurth is also a talented singer-songwriter, performing with his band Kurth & Taylor. Rumors hint he may want more time to pursue music full-time or focus on family after decades of balancing multiple careers.

What Would This Mean for Days?

If Kurth were to leave the role of Justin, the impact on DOOL would be immense. Writers would face the decision of either recasting the role or writing Justin out entirely. Recasting a character as iconic as Justin Kiriakis would be a risky move, as Kurth has become synonymous with the role.

Another possibility is that the writers could give Justin a dramatic send-off — perhaps involving a shocking court case, a heartbreaking family storyline, or even a mysterious disappearance tied to the Kiriakis fortune. Given Salem’s history of jaw-dropping twists, fans know that anything is possible.

Fan Reaction

As soon as news of Kurth’s remarks surfaced, DOOL fans flooded social media with emotional responses. Some expressed heartbreak at the thought of losing Justin:

“Wally IS Justin. Nobody else could ever play him. Please don’t leave!”

“If Justin goes, a huge part of Salem’s heart goes with him.”

“He deserves to retire if he wants to, but selfishly, I hope he stays.”

Others speculated that the producers might convince Kurth to stay on in a recurring capacity, allowing him more personal freedom while still keeping Justin alive in Salem’s ongoing storylines.

Kurth Leaves the Door Open

For now, Kurth is being careful with his words. While he acknowledged he’s been thinking about the future, he also left the door open for fans. “I love the character of Justin,” he said. “And I love the people I work with. Nothing’s decided yet. But I want to be honest with fans — I’m at a point in my life where I’m asking some big questions.”

That honesty, while unsettling, also reassures fans that whatever happens, the decision will come from a place of respect for both the show and its loyal viewers.

What’s Next in Salem?

On-screen, Justin has been juggling complicated emotions after the loss of Victor and his ongoing ties to Maggie, Bonnie, and the rest of the Kiriakis family. With family rivalries heating up, Justin’s presence in the courtroom and at home has never been more crucial.

If Kurth does decide to step away, fans can expect the writers to give Justin a powerful storyline that honors both the character and the actor who brought him to life.

Final Thoughts

The possibility of losing Wally Kurth from Days of Our Lives is nothing short of devastating for longtime fans. His portrayal of Justin Kiriakis has spanned decades, shaping the legacy of Salem and anchoring the Kiriakis family in a way no one else could.

For now, nothing is confirmed — but one thing is certain: whether Kurth stays, leaves, or shifts to a part-time role, his contribution to DOOL is undeniable. And if his latest revelation is any indication, the next few months in Salem could be some of the most emotional yet.