Days of our lives spoilers: Emily O’Brien Back, Gwen, Theresa, or a New Twist?

A big Days of Our Lives casting announcement was revealed at the annual Day of Days fan event on Nov. 2: Emily O’Brien is returning to the soap as Gwen Rizczech! The actress herself shared the exciting news during a Q&A session with cast members.

Introduced by host Tony Moore, O’Brien walked out onstage donning the blonde wig she’d worn while playing Theresa Donovan, playfully tossing the tresses.

When Moore asked if she was Theresa, O’Brien shucked the platinum wig, revealing her natural brunette tresses, and exclaimed, “Actually, Gwen’s back in town, baby!”

With a little help from Paul Telfer (Xander) and a handy hairbrush, O’Brien smoothed down her locks while Moore declared.

“Ladies and gentlemen, making her grand return to Days of Our Lives, make some noise for Emily O’Brien, Gwen Rizczech!”

Following the event, O’Brien shared the surprise reveal on Instagram. “The cat (and wig) is out of the bag! Thanks for the warm welcome back to Salem! Now, buckle your seatbelts. Oh, and thanks, Paul, for the hairbrush.”

The English actress joined the cast of DAYS in 2020, creating the role of Jack’s long-lost daughter.

In October 2023, she made her final appearance as Gwen and, in the same episode, took over the role of Theresa from Jen Lilley.

She played Theresa until August 2024, when the character was shipped off to prison for her litany of crimes.

O’Brien can be seen at the end of the exciting Season 60 preview for the soap wearing a blonde wig… and Soap Opera Digest has confirmed that the actress will bring both characters back to Salem in 2025!

According to our sister site, Theresa will be seen in March of next year, and then Gwen will return to town in July.