Days of our lives spoilers: SHOCKING NEWS – Cherie Jimenez Leaves DOOL, Camila Banus Returns as Gabi

In Salem, nothing ever stays the same for long—and that includes the faces of some of the most beloved characters. Fans of Days of Our Lives are reeling after breaking news hit the soap world: Cherie Jimenez, who recently stepped into the iconic role of Gabi Hernandez, is leaving the show. Even more jaw-dropping? Camila Banus, who embodied Gabi for over a decade, is set to make her highly anticipated return. This double twist is sending shockwaves through both the cast and the audience, reshaping the future of Salem in ways few could have predicted.

For those who’ve been following closely, Jimenez’s casting was a big gamble for the showrunners. After Banus’ departure in 2023, many doubted anyone could fill her shoes. Jimenez, however, gave it everything she had—bringing her unique energy, background, and emotional depth to the role. From her debut in June 2024, she managed to spark new life into Gabi, balancing her fiery edge with moments of vulnerability. Her chemistry with co-stars like Brandon Barash’s Stefan and Dan Feuerriegel’s EJ brought viewers intense, dramatic storylines, reminding fans of why Gabi is one of Salem’s most compelling anti-heroines.

But stepping into a role that had been synonymous with another actress for 13 years came with challenges. Jimenez faced harsh backlash early on. Loyal fans of Banus voiced strong criticism, and the cyberbullying was relentless. While she admitted those comments hurt deeply, Jimenez didn’t back down. Instead, she pushed forward, determined to honor the character while still making Gabi her own. Over time, her dedication won over many skeptics. By her one-year mark, she had begun earning recognition as one of the most successful recasts in recent DOOL history.

So why the sudden exit? Reports from inside sources suggest that Jimenez’s departure wasn’t tied to her performance but to creative decisions behind the scenes. The writers have been carefully mapping out Gabi’s next chapter—one that demanded a familiar face. Banus, who had left to pursue other opportunities and to focus on her family, is now ready to step back into the world of daytime television. Producers believe her return will not only excite longtime fans but also stabilize one of Salem’s cornerstone storylines.

This news raises big questions: how will the show handle the transition? Gabi has been deeply entangled in a web of secrets involving Xander Cook and Philip Kiriakis. Jimenez’s portrayal saw her take daring risks—scheming, seducing, and plotting revenge—while also grappling with betrayal from Stefan. Will Banus pick up exactly where Jimenez left off, or will Gabi undergo yet another transformation as she reclaims her place in Salem?

Banus herself has spoken candidly about her love for the role. During her original run, she transformed Gabi from a sweet young girl into a powerhouse of passion, ambition, and cunning. Her storylines were legendary: the death of her sister Arianna, her tangled romances, her brutal rivalries, and her relentless determination to protect her family at any cost. Fans often said that Banus was Gabi, so it’s no surprise that her comeback is being framed as a return to the character’s roots.

Jimenez, meanwhile, leaves behind a remarkable legacy despite her short time on the show. Her journey to Salem was no overnight success. For 15 years she chased the dream, facing rejection and building a career across primetime television before finally landing the part that had once slipped through her fingers back in 2009. That history made her tenure as Gabi feel almost fated—a full-circle moment of persistence and passion. Even though her run is ending, her impact will not be forgotten.

What makes this situation even more dramatic is the timing. Gabi’s storyline is currently heating up with revelations that could shatter Salem. The secrets involving Xander and Philip have the potential to shake corporate empires and personal relationships alike. Gabi is right in the middle, armed with explosive information that could destroy reputations and reshape alliances. With Banus stepping back into the role, fans can expect her to deliver the fiery intensity that made her famous—perhaps with an even sharper edge now that she’s returning to claim her throne.

Behind the scenes, the decision to bring Banus back seems tied to fan demand. Soap audiences are passionate and vocal, and producers know that nostalgia is a powerful force. In an era where streaming competition is fierce, Days of Our Lives is banking on Banus’ return to reignite excitement and loyalty. Her chemistry with Salem’s leading men—especially Stefan and EJ—is a proven ratings magnet, and her ability to carry complex, layered storylines is unmatched.

For Jimenez, the exit is bittersweet. She poured herself into the role and weathered storms of criticism with grace. Many co-stars praised her resilience, calling her a class act both on and off set. She leaves with her head held high, having fulfilled a dream that was years in the making. Her final episodes as Gabi are expected to air in late fall, paving the way for Banus to re-enter the canvas in a storyline packed with high-stakes drama.

The fan base remains divided, though. Some argue that Jimenez deserved more time to solidify her place in Salem and that the revolving door of casting undermines the stability of the show. Others are ecstatic that Banus is returning, seeing her as the definitive Gabi. Social media is buzzing with debates, comparisons, and predictions about what the future holds. Will Banus pick up where Jimenez left off, or will the writers craft a reset that reintroduces Gabi in a bold new way?

What’s certain is that Salem is about to get even more explosive. Gabi’s return in Banus’ capable hands promises power plays, passionate showdowns, and unpredictable twists. Whether she’s exposing lies, seeking revenge, or fighting for love, Gabi Hernandez is once again poised to dominate storylines.

Cherie Jimenez may be leaving Days of Our Lives, but her brief time as Gabi highlighted her talent and determination, giving fans a fresh perspective on a beloved character. As she steps aside, Camila Banus’ return ensures that Gabi’s legacy will continue in full force. The transition marks not just a casting shake-up, but a defining moment for the show itself—reminding everyone that in Salem, nothing ever stays quiet for long.

Conclusion: With Cherie Jimenez exiting and Camila Banus reclaiming her throne, Days of Our Lives has set the stage for one of its most talked-about transitions in years. Fans can expect fireworks, heartbreak, and drama of the highest order as Gabi once again takes center stage. Salem is never short on surprises, but this casting bombshell proves once more why the soap remains a powerhouse of emotional, addictive storytelling.