In a stunning shake-up that has left longtime Days of Our Lives fans buzzing, Cherie Jimenez has officially exited the iconic role of Gabi

Hernandez, making way for the dramatic return of Camila Banus, the actress who originated—and defined—the fiery Salem favorite for over

a decade. The unexpected casting pivot has sparked shock, nostalgia, and heated debate across the fandom as viewers brace for a new wave of DiMera-Hernandez chaos.

 

 

A Brief but Fiery Run Comes to an End

Cherie Jimenez stepped into the role of Gabi Hernandez with the difficult task of replacing a beloved actress who had shaped the character’s identity. Despite initial hesitation among viewers, Jimenez made a strong impression, delivering a bold, sharp-edged, and emotionally charged version of Gabi. Her performance was dynamic, intense, and full of potential storylines that hinted at a longer stay in Salem.

 

 

But now, after a short tenure, Jimenez has confirmed her departure. Sources close to production suggest the decision was mutual, aligning with a strategic storyline shift that required bringing the original Gabi back into the fold.

Still, fans were blindsided.

 

 

Many had grown to appreciate Jimenez’s take on the character—especially her chemistry with Stefan, her fierce clashes with EJ, and her reenergized ambition to reclaim power in Salem. Losing her now, just as major story arcs were heating up, feels like a sudden and emotional jolt.

 

 

Camila Banus Returns: “Gabi Is Coming Back Home”

The biggest shock, of course, is the announcement that Camila Banus is officially returning—a move that immediately ignited excitement across social platforms. Banus portrayed Gabi Hernandez from 2010 until 2023 and became synonymous with the character’s fiery personality, complicated relationships, and unforgettable feuds.

Banus brings a unique intensity to Gabi—dangerous, emotional, unpredictable, and deeply human. For many viewers, she is Gabi. And now that she’s stepping back into the role, expectations are sky-high.

With her return comes the possibility of:

A messy, emotional reunion with Stefan

A reignited rivalry with EJ and Nicole

A new chapter in the DiMera power struggle

The potential for Gabi to reclaim her empire—by force

Sources tease that Banus has already filmed her first scenes and that her return is tied to a “massive sweep-level storyline” that will shake Salem to its core.

Why the Switch? Inside the Creative Decision

While the producers haven’t issued an official statement detailing the reason for the change, several insiders hint that the decision was story-driven. DOOL is reportedly planning a high-stakes arc centered heavily on Gabi’s history, which may have required bringing back the version of the character that fans recognize most.

Some speculate the writing team wants to revisit unresolved storylines that were left hanging after Banus’ 2023 exit—plots involving betrayal, prison time, and the complicated fallout with Stefan. With the next major villain arc looming, the show may be preparing to position Gabi as a central emotional anchor… or possibly a wild card.

Whatever the reason, one thing is certain: Gabi’s new chapter is going to be explosive.

The Fallout: What Happens to Gabi’s Current Storyline?

Cherie Jimenez’s exit raises crucial questions. Where does Gabi go from here? How will the transition unfold onscreen?

Spoilers suggest that the show is crafting a dramatic handoff—one that won’t feel abrupt or disconnected. Rumor has it that Gabi may disappear briefly due to a DiMera plot, prison twist, or kidnapping storyline, only to resurface as Camila Banus once the “mystery” resolves.

This strategy allows the show to maintain continuity while giving fans an emotionally satisfying return.

Fan Reactions: Shock, Excitement, and Fierce Debates

Social media erupted within minutes of the announcement.

Some fans praised Cherie Jimenez for her fresh, bold take and expressed disappointment that she didn’t get more time to grow into the role. Others celebrated Camila Banus’ return as a long-awaited homecoming.

One thing is clear: Gabi Hernandez remains one of DOOL’s most passionate fan-supported characters, and viewers deeply care about who brings her to life.

What’s Next for Gabi in Salem?

With Banus back, expect a major storyline explosion involving betrayal, battles for power, and a deeper exploration of Gabi’s dark and emotional past.

The DiMera family isn’t ready. Salem isn’t ready.
And Gabi Hernandez—reborn, relentless, and more dangerous than ever—is about to remind everyone exactly why she remains one of the most electrifying women in daytime television.