The very air in Salem vibrates with an electrifying whisper, a rumor so audacious, so utterly Days of Our Lives, that it threatens to redefine the landscape of daytime drama itself. Imagine the impossible: a beloved actor, once the ruthless yet irresistibly charming scion of a notorious dynasty, now potentially stepping into the shoes of the patriarch who cast that very shadow. This isn’t just speculation; it’s a tantalizing prospect that has the entire Days of Our Lives fandom ablaze: James Scott, the iconic EJ DiMera, rumored to be making a dramatic return, not as his beloved character, but as the legendary, seemingly unkillable Stefano DiMera, The Phoenix himself. Is this a wild fantasy, or a plot twist so epic it could shake Salem to its very core?
A Star’s Enduring Legacy: The Charisma of EJ DiMera
For those who have navigated the intricate, often treacherous, pathways of Days of Our Lives, the name James Scott is not just a name; it is synonymous with a character carved into the very stone of Salem’s history: Elvis Aaron DiMera, known simply as EJ. From the moment he first strode into Salem in 2006, Scott’s portrayal of EJ captivated audiences. He embodied a character simultaneously suave, cunning, and dangerously charming – the quintessential heir to the infamous DiMera legacy. His piercing gaze, that impeccable British accent, and an unparalleled ability to balance ruthless ambition with moments of heartbreaking vulnerability solidified EJ as an instant fan favorite. His chemistry with Alison Sweeney’s Sami Brady was nothing short of incandescent, forging one of the most unforgettable supercouples in the storied annals of soap opera history.
Scott’s tenure on Days, spanning from 2006 to 2014, was a relentless rollercoaster of high-stakes drama. EJ, the complex son of Stefano DiMera and Susan Banks, was a character capable of being both villain and hero, often within the same breath. Whether he was meticulously orchestrating corporate schemes at DiMera Enterprises, engaging in bitter feuds with the venerable Brady family, or melting hearts with his unwavering devotion to Sami, EJ was an undeniable force of nature. Scott’s magnetic performance garnered him two Daytime Emmy nominations, firmly cementing his status as a soap opera icon. His departure in 2014, when EJ was seemingly gunned down by a DiMera henchman, left a chasm of devastation among fans. The indelible image of Sami weeping over EJ’s lifeless body in the Salem morgue remains etched in the minds of long-time viewers, a testament to the profound impact of Scott’s portrayal.
But as any true Days fan intimately knows, death in Salem is rarely, if ever, truly permanent. In a twist befitting the show’s unpredictable nature, 2018 brought the revelation that EJ was indeed alive, whisked away by Stefano’s machinations and eventually reunited with Sami off-screen in Italy. While the character eventually returned to Salem in 2021 with Australian actor Dan Feuerriegel taking over the role, a significant portion of the fanbase continues to associate EJ’s essence with James Scott’s unparalleled charisma. The recast, as expected, sparked mixed reactions, with some viewers embracing Feuerriegel’s fresh take while countless others openly yearned for Scott’s unique blend of charm and menacing intensity. Now, a new, audacious rumor has ignited both fervent hope and cautious skepticism among the Days faithful: could James Scott truly be returning to the show, not as the EJ we knew, but in a role that promises to utterly redefine his legacy?
The Phoenix Rises: Stefano DiMera’s Potential Rebirth
At the very heart of this scorching speculation lies the tantalizing, almost unbelievable, possibility of Stefano DiMera’s return. Masterfully brought to life by the late, great Joseph Mascolo from 1982 to 2016, Stefano, famously known as “The Phoenix” for his uncanny, almost supernatural ability to cheat death, stood as the quintessential soap opera villain. A master manipulator with an insatiable penchant for elaborate, labyrinthine schemes, Stefano’s dark shadow loomed immense over Salem, casting a pall even after his character was definitively killed off by Hope Brady in 2016. Mascolo’s passing in 2016 left an undeniable, aching void in the Days universe; his legendary portrayal of Stefano was, quite simply, irreplaceable. The character’s larger-than-life presence, marked by his devilish grin and relentless ambition, solidified him as one of television’s most iconic antagonists.
Recent whispers, intensely fueled by Days of Our Lives‘ summer 2025 preview, have audaciously teased a miraculous comeback for Stefano. A cryptic line from Rafe, ominously referencing Stefano’s Phoenix-like ability to rise from the ashes, has sent the fandom into an absolute frenzy. The preview subtly hints that Stefano may “awaken from the ultimate power nap,” a tantalizing suggestion of a resurrection that could only be pulled off in the gloriously wild and unpredictable world of soaps. But with Joseph Mascolo no longer with us, the burning question on every fan’s mind is a formidable one: who, if anyone, could possibly step into Stefano’s legendary, formidable shoes?
This is precisely where the groundbreaking rumor about James Scott comes into play. Various reputable soap opera sources have openly speculated about a shortlist of actors deemed capable of taking on the monumental role of a recast Stefano, and Scott’s name has undeniably surfaced as a long shot, yet an utterly exhilarating one. The mere concept of Scott, who so brilliantly embodied Stefano’s son, EJ, now returning to portray the very patriarch himself, is a plot twist of such magnitude that it would send seismic shockwaves through every corner of Salem. Imagine, if you dare, the sheer, unadulterated drama of Stefano’s malevolent essence being reactivated, somehow inhabiting the very body of his own son, EJ, played once more by the magnetic James Scott. The pandemonium, the emotional fallout, the sheer epic scale of such a storyline would be nothing short of legendary.
The Case For: Why James Scott Could Be The Phoenix Reborn
Let’s delve deeper into this compelling vision. Envision Stefano DiMera, the seemingly indestructible patriarch, somehow inhabiting the youthful, vibrant body of EJ, brought to life once more by James Scott. This is a concept plucked directly from Days‘ own playbook of wild, sci-fi-inspired storylines. After all, this is a show that has, without blinking, given its audience devil possession, intricate brainwashing, and even cloning. The undeniable precedent for such an audacious twist already exists within the show’s rich history. Stefano’s essence, in a prior narrative, was remarkably transferred into Steve Johnson (Stephen Nichols) from 2019 to 2020, creating the unforgettable “Stano” arc. Could the ingenious writers dare to pull a similar stunt, perhaps placing Stefano’s dark consciousness directly into EJ’s body, thereby providing the perfect vehicle to bring Scott back to the canvas?
Scott’s inherent suitability for such a monumental role is, quite simply, undeniable. His celebrated portrayal of EJ consistently showcased his innate ability to channel the DiMera family’s signature blend of commanding charisma, underlying menace, and sophisticated cunning. EJ, more often than not, was a true chip off the old block, inheriting not only Stefano’s intricate cunning but also his flair for the dramatic and his insatiable ambition. Scott’s commanding screen presence, combined with his remarkable versatility in delivering both chilling villainy and profound emotional depth, makes him a natural, almost destined, fit to carry forward Stefano’s enduring legacy. Picture Scott delivering Stefano’s iconic, chilling lines, his voice dripping with menace as he meticulously plots to reclaim the vast DiMera Empire. The mere thought is enough to send a shiver down the spine of even the most seasoned soap fan.
Moreover, Scott’s intimate history with the show provides him with an unparalleled advantage. He knows the intricate world of Salem inside and out – from the shadowy corners of the DiMera mansion to the labyrinthine dynamics of its complex families. His undeniable chemistry with the current cast, particularly with Alison Sweeney’s Sami, could add immeasurable layers of complexity and emotional gravitas to a Stefano-in-EJ storyline. Imagine the heart-wrenching drama of Sami confronting a husband who is no longer entirely EJ, but a vessel for Stefano’s malevolent spirit. The emotional fallout from such a devastating revelation would be an absolute goldmine for drama, pitting pure love against the darkest betrayal in true Days fashion. The visual of Scott embodying Stefano would also be a masterstroke in visual storytelling. EJ’s youthful vigor and striking appearance, now combined with Stefano’s seasoned ruthlessness, would forge a terrifying new kind of villain – one who is both physically imposing and psychologically unsettling. It is not difficult to envision Scott, with his chiseled features and intense gaze, looming majestically over Salem’s unsuspecting residents as Stefano reborn, poised to wreak unfathomable havoc once more.
The Obstacles: James Scott’s Stance on Returning
Before we allow ourselves to be fully swept away by these thrilling visions of Scott ruling Salem as a resurrected Stefano, there remains a significant, formidable hurdle to consider: James Scott himself. In 2020, Scott made headlines when he responded directly to a fan on Instagram, unequivocally stating that he would “never never never” return to Days of Our Lives or, for that matter, Hollywood in general. His words, delivered with unwavering conviction, were a profound gut punch to legions of fans who had tirelessly held out hope for his eventual comeback.
Scott, who initially departed the show in 2014 to pursue other endeavors, has since definitively retired from acting. He is reportedly now focusing his energies on running a business named “The Whisper Within,” which is dedicated to helping individuals discover inner peace and purpose. Scott’s original departure from Days was not without its own share of drama; his character’s seemingly definitive death in 2014, followed by the subsequent revelation that EJ was, in fact, alive, naturally sparked fervent speculation about a potential return. However, Scott’s firm stance against returning to the entertainment industry has remained remarkably consistent. In a 2020 interview, he openly expressed a profound disinterest in the entertainment industry, declaring, “There is nothing interesting there for me.” This sentiment has been echoed in various reports, which consistently note that Scott has embraced a simpler, more introspective life centered on personal growth and meditation.
The actor’s decision to step away from the demanding spotlight is, in many respects, entirely understandable. After eight intense years of embodying the high-octane role of EJ, Scott may have simply felt ready for a significant life change. His brief post-Days appearances in primetime shows like Private Eyes and Wrecked were short-lived, and he has since largely remained out of the public eye. For many dedicated fans, this unwavering stance makes the rumor of his return seem like a dauntingly long shot, as various soap publications have aptly noted. Yet, in the famously unpredictable world of daytime soaps, the word “never” often proves to be a temporary state. Other prominent soap stars have made similar emphatic declarations only to make triumphant returns when the truly right opportunity, a role of undeniable magnitude, presented itself. Could Days craft a role so incredibly juicy, so tantalizingly iconic as Stefano, that it might just be the irresistible carrot to lure him back to the drama-filled streets of Salem?
The Fan Frenzy: What Would Scott’s Return Mean?
If James Scott were, against all odds, to make a return as Stefano, the impact on Days of Our Lives would be nothing short of seismic. Fans across various online platforms, from Reddit to X (formerly Twitter), have consistently expressed their deep, enduring love for Scott’s portrayal of EJ, with many openly lamenting the subsequent recast with Dan Feuerriegel. Comments such as, “James Scott was phenomenal, and he brought all the heat from day one,” vividly reflect the profound emotional connection viewers forged with his original performance. A return, especially in a role as undeniably iconic as Stefano, would not only reignite that passionate connection but would undoubtedly draw lapsed viewers back to the show in droves, hungry for the dramatic fireworks that only Scott can deliver.
The potential storyline implications are ripe with thrilling possibilities. Stefano’s return, whether through a physical resurrection or a body-swap twist, would instantly upend the current, delicate power dynamics in Salem. With the current EJ, played by Feuerriegel, navigating his own complex schemes, a Stefano-possessed EJ could create a fascinating, multi-layered conflict. Would the real EJ’s consciousness fight desperately to reclaim his own body? Or would Stefano’s overwhelming influence irrevocably corrupt him entirely? The already fractured DiMera family would face unprecedented turmoil as Stefano’s surviving children – characters like Chad, Kristen, and Tony – grapple with their father’s almost mythical resurrection. They would be thrust into emotional and moral dilemmas of epic proportions, making for absolute must-watch television.
And then, of course, there is the undeniable Sami factor. Alison Sweeney’s occasional, highly anticipated returns as Sami Brady consistently keep the character’s vibrant presence alive within the Days universe. A storyline involving Stefano inhabiting EJ’s body would provide the perfect, emotionally charged opportunity to bring Sami back for a major, potentially heartbreaking arc. The sheer devastation of seeing her beloved EJ overtaken by Stefano’s malevolence would undoubtedly be a tour de force for Sweeney’s acting chops, pushing her character to new emotional depths. The epic love story of Sami and EJ has always been a cornerstone of Days, and this audacious twist could either tragically destroy their legacy or redefine it in ways previously unimaginable.
The Bigger Picture: Why Stefano’s Return Matters
Stefano DiMera’s potential resurrection transcends the mere return of a single character; it fundamentally touches upon the very soul of Days of Our Lives. The DiMera family, with Stefano at its dark heart, has always been an unparalleled driving force in the show’s intricate narrative, representing the ultimate embodiment of power, betrayal, and twisted family loyalty. Without Stefano, the family has often lacked its undeniable anchor, with characters like EJ, Chad, and others visibly struggling to adequately fill the immense void left by his absence. Bringing Stefano back, whether through the magnetic presence of Scott or another capable actor, would unequivocally restore the larger-than-life villainy that so definitively shaped Days for decades.
The timing of this potential return also feels incredibly significant. With Days poised to celebrate its monumental 60th anniversary in 2025, a major storyline involving Stefano’s return could serve as a profoundly fitting tribute to the show’s enduring legacy and its remarkable resilience. The tantalizing summer previews strongly suggest that the writers are prepared to take bold, unprecedented risks, and a high-profile return like Scott’s could generate the kind of immense buzz and renewed interest needed to ensure Days continues to thrive robustly on Peacock.
What’s Next? Waiting for the Truth to Unfold
So, is James Scott truly returning to Days of Our Lives as Stefano DiMera? The rumor mill continues to churn with furious intensity, but the ultimate truth remains tantalizingly elusive. Scott’s own past, emphatic words certainly cast a long shadow of doubt on the immediate possibility. Yet, the sheer allure of a role as uniquely iconic as Stefano, a character with an almost mythical status, might just be the irresistible carrot needed to lure him back into the dramatic fold. Soap operas, by their very nature, thrive on breathtaking surprises, and Days possesses an uncanny knack for pulling off the seemingly impossible.
Whether it is Scott who ultimately embodies the resurrected Phoenix or another talented actor steps into those formidable shoes, the mere prospect of Stefano rising from the ashes once more has legions of fans perched precariously on the very edge of their seats. At TV’s Drama Digest, we vow to keep a vigilant eye on every spoiler, every interview, and every social media post for even the slightest clue. Will James Scott shock us all and make a triumphant return to Salem? Could he, indeed, embody The Phoenix in a way that not only honors Joseph Mascolo’s indelible legacy but also forges a thrilling new path for the iconic villain? Or will Days ultimately choose a different route, leaving Scott’s potential return as a tantalizing, forever-unanswered “what if”? One thing, however, is absolutely certain: in the unpredictable world of Salem, anything and everything is truly possible, and the drama, undoubtedly, is just getting started.
What do you think, Days fans? Would you love to see James Scott back as Stefano, or do you have another actor in mind who could do justice to The Phoenix? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep this electrifying conversation going!