The Days of Our Lives universe is reeling from an announcement no one saw coming — Greg Vaughan, who has long been beloved by fans

as Eric Brady, has reportedly decided never to return to the series. The shocking revelation has stunned viewers and sparked an emotional

outpouring from the DOOL fandom, many of whom have followed Vaughan’s journey in Salem for over a decade.

 

 

Known for his charm, depth, and emotional storytelling, Vaughan’s portrayal of Eric Brady — the conflicted priest-turned-photographer whose moral compass often clashed with his passionate heart — became one of the defining roles of the modern Days era. His decision to permanently step away from the soap marks the end of an important chapter not only for him, but for the series as a whole.

A Beloved Legacy Comes to an End

 

 

Greg Vaughan first joined Days of Our Lives in 2012, stepping into the role of Eric Brady, the son of Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) and Roman Brady (Josh Taylor). His version of Eric quickly won audiences over with its sincerity, vulnerability, and humanity.

Through storylines involving faith, forbidden love, redemption, and loss, Vaughan gave the character layers that resonated deeply with longtime fans. His on-screen chemistry with Arianne Zucker (Nicole Walker) was electric, turning the “Eric and Nicole” pairing into one of Salem’s most iconic modern love stories.

 

 

But after years of emotional highs and devastating heartbreaks, Vaughan appears ready to leave Salem — and Days — behind for good. According to sources close to the production, this time, the actor’s decision is final.

One insider told Soap Digest, “Greg has loved playing Eric, but he feels he’s told the story he needed to tell. He wants to move on to new creative challenges and spend more time with his family. He’s at peace with his decision.”

 

 

Why Greg Vaughan Said Goodbye

Greg Vaughan’s exit doesn’t come entirely out of nowhere. The actor has taken multiple breaks from the show in the past, often citing a desire for variety in his career. However, his most recent comments suggest a deeper, more personal motivation this time around.

In a heartfelt interview earlier this year, Vaughan reflected on his long journey with Days, saying:
“I’ve been blessed to play a role that’s touched so many people. But as an artist — and as a father — I’ve reached a point where I need to grow in new directions. I’ll always love the Days family, but it’s time to close this chapter.”

He added that his time away from the set during the COVID-19 pandemic gave him a new appreciation for life outside the studio — and made him realize how much he missed simply being Greg, not Eric.

Vaughan is reportedly focused on pursuing projects in primetime television and film. He’s also dedicating more time to his children and personal endeavors, emphasizing that “family always comes first.”

What This Means for Eric Brady’s Future

So, what happens now to Eric Brady — one of Days’ most enduring characters?

According to DOOL spoilers, Eric’s final storyline may revolve around one last emotional confrontation with Nicole and the aftermath of their broken love story. Some insiders suggest that Eric could leave Salem to start over somewhere new, possibly abroad, as he seeks peace and closure after years of turmoil.

Others speculate a more tragic ending — perhaps an accident or disappearance that leaves the door cracked open for a future return, should Vaughan ever reconsider. But based on his recent statements, that seems unlikely.

Producers are reportedly respecting Vaughan’s wishes not to recast the role anytime soon. One showrunner commented anonymously, “Eric Brady is Greg Vaughan. His portrayal brought so much integrity to the character. For now, we’ll let that legacy stand on its own.”

Fans React with Heartbreak and Gratitude

The Days of Our Lives community has exploded with emotion since news of Vaughan’s departure broke. Twitter and fan forums are filled with messages of sadness, appreciation, and disbelief.

“Greg Vaughan IS Eric Brady. I can’t imagine Salem without him.”

“He brought heart and soul to every scene. This is a huge loss for DOOL.”

“Greg, thank you for everything. You made us cry, you made us believe in love.”

Fans have also been sharing clips of Eric’s most powerful moments — his emotional reunions with Nicole, his crisis of faith, and his selfless sacrifices for others. These scenes, many say, are proof that Vaughan’s work will live on in soap history.

Co-Stars Speak Out

Several of Vaughan’s Days co-stars have shared heartfelt tributes following the news. Arianne Zucker (Nicole) posted on Instagram, “Working with Greg has been one of the great joys of my career. He’s a generous actor and an even better human being. Salem won’t be the same without him.”

Deidre Hall (Marlena Evans) also expressed her admiration, saying, “Greg has been like a son to me — on-screen and off. Watching him bring Eric to life was pure magic.”

Even the show’s executive producer, Ken Corday, reportedly released an internal memo praising Vaughan for his professionalism and emotional authenticity, calling his departure “a loss we’ll all feel deeply.”

A Bittersweet Goodbye

As Days of Our Lives moves forward without one of its brightest stars, fans are left reflecting on the impact Greg Vaughan has made over the years. His ability to balance strength and vulnerability, faith and doubt, made Eric Brady a truly human character — one who mirrored the struggles of many viewers.

While it’s painful to imagine Salem without Eric, there’s also a sense of closure. Vaughan leaves the show at the height of his craft, with the respect of his peers and the love of fans worldwide.

And though he may never return to Days, his legacy will live on through every scene, every heartbreak, and every moment of redemption that made Eric Brady one of daytime’s most unforgettable souls.

For fans, this isn’t just goodbye to a character — it’s a heartfelt thank-you to an actor who gave everything he had to make Salem feel real.