Mixed signals about Emily O’Brien’s return to Days of Our Lives have fans buzzing with theories and speculation. Initially reported to be returning as blonde-haired Theresa Donovan in March, TV Insider now claims she’ll actually be reprising her role as Gwen Rizczech on March 10th. What’s really going on in Salem?

Published

2 months ago

March 3, 2025

Jennifer DeAngelo

DAYS OF OUR LIVES: EMILY O’BRIEN’S MYSTERY RETURN HAS FANS BUZZING

The excitement is building in Salem as Emily O’Brien’s highly anticipated return to Days of Our Lives approaches, but there’s a twist that’s leaving fans scratching their heads. Initially expected to reprise her role as blonde-haired Theresa Donovan in March, recent reports from TV Insider now claim she’ll actually be returning as Gwen Rizczech on March 10th instead!

THE CURIOUS CASE OF THE CHARACTER CONFUSION

Talk about a soap opera plot worthy of Salem itself! When O’Brien left the show in August 2024 after portraying both characters for five years, fans were heartbroken. Her departure—with Theresa being carted off to prison—left the door wide open for a future comeback. So when she appeared at the Day of Days fan event in November 2024 sporting a blonde wig, everyone naturally assumed she’d be returning as Theresa.

But here’s where things get interesting. While early announcements suggested O’Brien would play both characters in 2025 (with Theresa in March and Gwen in July), the latest scoop from TV Insider flips the script completely. Now it seems Gwen is making her comeback first—and much sooner than anyone expected!

This switcheroo has sparked endless speculation. Is this a simple scheduling change? A deliberate misdirection? Or could Days be planning something truly unexpected with both characters?

GWEN VS. THERESA: WHO DO FANS WANT MORE?

Looking at fan reactions across social media and forums, it’s becoming clear that Gwen might have the edge in popularity. One Reddit user wrote, “Bring back Gwen!” while another confessed, “I love the actress but hate Theresa,” revealing a clear preference for O’Brien’s original Days role.

This isn’t too surprising. O’Brien originated the role of Gwen in 2020, creating a complex character with deep connections to Jack Deveraux as his long-lost daughter. Her scheming ways and eventual attempts at redemption gave viewers plenty to love (and love to hate). Meanwhile, she only stepped into Theresa’s shoes in October 2023 after Jen Lilley’s brief return, making her association with that character much shorter.

WHAT COULD THIS MEAN FOR SALEM?

So what’s really going on here? Several intriguing possibilities emerge:

DOUBLE DUTY DRAMA

Could O’Brien be pulling double duty right from the start? It wouldn’t be the first time a Days actor played dual roles simultaneously. With today’s production techniques, seeing Theresa and Gwen share a scene (both played by O’Brien) is entirely possible, opening the door to some truly wild storytelling.

A SHOCKING CONNECTION

Another theory gaining traction suggests Gwen and Theresa might be connected in some unexpected way. Long-lost twins? One impersonating the other? In Salem, anything’s possible, and this wouldn’t be the first time the show has pulled off such a twist.

STRATEGIC MISDIRECTION

The show might be deliberately creating confusion to surprise viewers when O’Brien actually does return. Nothing builds anticipation like mystery, and the ambiguity around which character she’ll play first keeps everyone guessing.

PERFECT TIMING FOR MAXIMUM DRAMA

Whichever character returns first, the timing couldn’t be more perfect for shaking up Salem. With Marlena Evans about to receive devastating news about John Black, Brady and Ava figuring out their complicated relationship, and young couples like Tate and Holly facing their own drama, dropping Gwen (or Theresa) into the mix will surely create ripple effects throughout town.

For Gwen, potential storylines could involve reconnecting with her father Jack, stirring up trouble with ex-flame Xander Cook, or even crossing paths with JJ Deveraux who recently returned to Salem himself. The potential for fresh conflicts and alliances is endless.

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON

With March 10th rapidly approaching, Days fans won’t have to wait much longer to solve this mystery. Will O’Brien return as schemer Gwen? Will she surprise everyone by appearing as Theresa despite recent reports? Or is something even more shocking in store?

One thing’s for certain—Emily O’Brien’s return to Days of Our Lives will be must-see TV, regardless of which character she portrays. Her talent for bringing depth to both roles has cemented her as a fan favorite, and her comeback promises to inject fresh energy into the show.

Mark your calendars for March 10th and prepare for the drama to unfold. In typical Salem fashion, expect the unexpected!

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Author

Jennifer DeAngelo

Jennifer D’Angelo is a seasoned soap opera columnist with an impressive 39-year history in the world of daytime dramas. An ardent fan of “Days of Our Lives,” “The Bold and the Beautiful,” and “The Young and the Restless,” Jennifer’s captivating commentary has become a must-read feature in Soap Opera Magazine. Away from the glitz and drama of the soap opera world, Jennifer is a gifted culinary enthusiast who enjoys cooking and baking. Her tantalizing dishes often serve as a lively backdrop to her viewing parties and fan meetups. A devoted Los Angeles Dodgers fan, Jennifer’s love for baseball provides yet another layer to her engaging personality. Jennifer D’Angelo, with her deep knowledge of soap operas and her broad array of personal interests, is a beloved voice in the world of daytime drama commentary.
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