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Days Of Our Lives cast axed as show goes on indefinite hiatus

American soap Days Of Our Lives' cast pose together for a promo shoot.
American soap Days Of Our Lives' future has been the subject of much speculation. Photo: NBC

Days Of Our Lives has reportedly terminated the contracts of its entire cast after the show went on an indefinite hiatus earlier this month.

The long-running American soap, which first aired in 1965, has experienced low ratings in recent years and is now the subject of cancellation rumours, according to TVLine.

Cast members were also reportedly told by NBC that the show would enter a filming break from the end of November, and no return date has yet been announced.

Filming typically takes place eight months in advance, meaning fans can expect the troubled program to air until at least mid-2020.

Days’ uncertain future

The publication also reported the cast’s apparent release was done with finances in mind and they could return to set as early as March if all goes to plan.

“It’s actually a shrewd — if cynical — business move,” one insider said.

“If Days gets picked up, 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, everyone agrees to return at a lower salary.”

Days Of Our Lives cast members pose at the Golden Globes in the 1990s.
The soap has been running for 55 years. Photo: Getty

However, despite the chatter, all is not lost for the network’s last remaining soap, according to TVLine’s source.

“All indications are that NBC would like to keep the show going,” they said.

Conflicting reports

Additionally, Soap Opera Digest said the show is currently renegotiating a new contract with the network, and a source said “everyone is hopeful” a deal will be struck.

The magazine also noted the timing of the TVLine story was “curious” because the cast was “aware of the break and the hiatus for months” and “production will likely resume in early 2020 after the holidays.”

Reps for Sony Pictures Television and NBC have not responded to requests for comment.

Additional reporting by Suzy Byrne.

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