In a twist that no Days of Our Lives fan saw coming, beloved actress Jen Lilley — best known for her unforgettable portrayal of Theresa

Donovan — is officially returning to Days of Our Lives! But this time, it’s not the same Theresa we remember. According to recent spoilers

and inside sources, Lilley is set to return to Salem in a brand-new, completely unexpected role that promises to shake the entire town to its core.

 

 

After months of speculation and fan theories swirling online, the confirmation has finally dropped — and fans are already buzzing with excitement (and confusion). Is Jen Lilley back to stir trouble as a Theresa lookalike, or is she stepping into an entirely new identity with shocking ties to Salem’s biggest families? Let’s break down everything we know so far.

Jen Lilley’s Triumphant Return — But With a Twist

For years, Jen Lilley has been a fan favorite. Her mix of fiery attitude, emotional vulnerability, and sharp wit made Theresa Donovan one of DOOL’s most complex characters. Whether scheming for love, protecting her son Tate, or clashing with Brady Black, Lilley’s performances always drew praise for their emotional depth and realism.

Now, insiders reveal that her return will be unlike anything viewers have seen before. Rather than reprising Theresa in the same old way, Lilley’s comeback involves a shocking identity twist — one that the producers have reportedly kept secret for months.

“Jen’s new storyline is bold, mysterious, and full of surprises,” said a show insider. “Fans think they know what’s coming, but trust me — they don’t.”

Rumors suggest Lilley may play a long-lost twin, an undercover ISA agent, or even a character connected to one of Salem’s most powerful families — the DiMeras or the Kiriakises.

Theresa’s Shadow Still Looms

Although Lilley isn’t returning as the same Theresa we once knew, her former character’s legacy remains deeply rooted in Salem. Theresa’s history with Brady, Tate, and Xander continues to influence major storylines — especially as Tate’s rebellious streak grows and old wounds between Brady and Theresa’s family resurface.

This has led fans to question whether Lilley’s new role might still have a mysterious connection to Theresa’s past. Some even speculate that she could play Theresa’s secret twin sister, separated at birth and hidden for years to protect a dark family secret.

“It wouldn’t be Days of Our Lives without a twin twist,” joked one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “If Jen’s not playing Theresa, she’s definitely playing someone related to her!”

Whatever the truth, producers are reportedly preparing an emotional reunion scene that will leave longtime viewers stunned.

Behind the Scenes: Why Jen Lilley Left — and Why She’s Back

Lilley last appeared on Days of Our Lives in late 2023, when Theresa’s storyline took a surprising turn. While fans were heartbroken to see her go, the actress later revealed that her departure was due to scheduling conflicts and personal priorities, including her work in film and her focus on family.

In several interviews, Lilley expressed love for her DOOL family and hinted that she’d “never say never” to returning if the story was right.

Well — it seems the story finally was right.

According to Soap Opera Digest, showrunners reached out to Lilley earlier this year with a “creative, fresh role” that would give her a chance to reinvent herself on-screen. After reading the first few scripts, she reportedly agreed immediately.