Days of Our Lives is one of the long-running American soap operas. Debuting in 1965, the show revolves around gripping storylines about family sagas and unexpected twists in the fictional town of Salem. Initially aired on NBC, it now streams on Peacock.
One of the memorable characters on the show is Stefan DiMera, played by Brandon Barash. As a central figure in the DiMera family, Stefan is known for his complexity and his on-and-off relationship with Gabi Hernandez.
Barash joined the soap in 2019, first taking on the role of Stefan and later playing Stefan's twin brother, Jake Lambert. Reportedly, he is exiting Days of Our Lives, with his final episode scheduled for October 28, 2024. This decision was made by the show’s writers, as his role has been abruptly written off.
Is Brandon Barash leaving the soap opera?
Brandon Barash has been a beloved figure on Days of Our Lives, captivating audiences for the past five years as Stefan DiMera. Before Days of Our Lives, Barash was known for his role as Johnny Zacchara on General Hospital.
Stefan made his debut in 2017 and quickly became a key player in the DiMera family saga. Throughout his time on the show, Barash’s portrayal of Stefan included a series of intense storylines. This involved love triangles, family betrayals, and even dramatic comebacks from death.
He entered the show as a dark, brooding figure and later developed a passionate relationship with Gabi Hernandez. The narrative took a shocking turn when Stefan was killed off just a year after his introduction. However, he was brought back to life in April 2020 through a captivating plot involving his twin brother, Jake.
A closer look at Brandon Barash's character on
Days of Our Lives
Stefan DiMera has been a key character in Days of Our Lives since his first appearance on December 29, 2017. Initially portrayed by Tyler Christopher, Brandon Barash took over the role in 2019. Stefan is the son of the crimelord Stefano Dimera and his ex-wife, Vivian Alamain.
Raised as Sam Maitlin, Stefan only learned his true identity later in life. This revelation shaped his search for power and acceptance in the DiMera family. He is known for his obsessive love for Abigail Deveraux, also called Gabby.
This fixation often leads him to make questionable choices, reflecting his father's darker traits. Stefan gets married to her for strategic reasons, showing that love can only turn into control and deceit.
Current storyline of Days of Our Lives
As of the episodes aired on October 25, the current storyline revolves around Kristen contacting Xander to remind him that they both needed the deal and to discuss their upcoming meeting about Sarah's fate. Meanwhile, Melinda is pressuring Stefan to make a decision, and he is having problems signing his divorce papers.
Melinda taunts Stefan about his ego, exposing some tension in their conversation. Moreover, Melinda warns Kristen about Stefan's terrible attitude when she leaves, but Kristen remains strong and determined to achieve her goals.
Closing thoughts
Brandon Barash’s departure from Days of Our Lives signifies a huge change for the fans of Stefan DiMera. His portrait of a complex character navigating love and family drama has left a lasting impact on the show.
In addition to Stefan's storyline, several other storylines are going on as Vivian tries to keep him away from Gabi and Rafe's cousin Javi causes trouble in Salem. Interested viewers can watch the next episodes of the daily soap on Peacock.
Read More: What happened to Kristen DiMera on Days of Our Lives? Explained