Entire cast of long-running TV soap axed unexpectedly
The cast of the popular and long running soap opera known as Days of Our Lives have reportedly been released from their contracts as the series’ future is uncertain.
According to TVLine, the entire cast was released from their contracts and the show is expected to go on an indefinite hiatus at the end of November.
Representatives for NBC and Sony have declined to comment on the speculation, but fans are worried as the move comes at a time where Sony and NBC are in negotiations to renew series.
An insider for Sony has said that the studio isn’t involved in the contract negotiations with the cast as “the actor deals are through Corday Productions”.
“It’s actually a shrewd — if cynical — business move,” said one insider to TVLine. “If Days gets picked up, [Corday] can offer the actors new contacts at a reduced rate and with a ‘take-it-or-leave’ it attitude. Worst case scenario, they lose half their cast. Best case scenario [for Corday], everyone agrees to return at a lower salary.”
Despite low ratings and the soap opera genre being in decline, NBC have said that they would like to keep the show.
“All indications are that NBC would like to keep the show going,” an insider confirmed.
The news comes just days after the Days of Our Lives soap opera is shaking things up on-screen.
This week’s episode is fast-forwarding the show’s timeline by one year.
“This is a great way to reset things in Salem,” executive producer Ken Corday told TVInsider of the time jump. “It will be a catalyst for many more [changes] to follow.”
Days of Our Lives has been on the smaller screens since 1965 and has aired 13,705 episodes to date. The show is in its 56th season.