Many Days of our Lives fans were shocked when nefarious Salemite Andre DiMera was found dead at the end of the Friday, January 19, episode. And jaws continued to drop when the character's portrayer, Thaao Penghlis, took to social media to bid fans goodbye -- a move that seemingly confirms he has truly departed the NBC soap opera.
"Thank you so much for always being there and supporting Andre through all these transitions," wrote the actor. "I have no answers to all that is transpiring except that you too made a big difference to my life. Hugs to my friends. #days lives #support."
Penghlis' costar Camila Banus (Gabi Hernandez) responded to the tweet, writing: "@ThaaoPenghlis you are one of the most inspiring person [sic] I have ever had the honor of working with. Will truly miss you but I know it won't be for long ! We will cross paths again."
Addressing some of his final scenes with Banus, Penghlis also wrote: "Personally it was difficult to do these scenes as I just adore Camila. Great gal with a wonderful passion. Transitions were difficult."
@ThaaoPenghlis @camilabanus #days #Dool pic.twitter.com/D2rCt4NjlY
- 🦀HarleeMarieღ⌛️ ™ (@HarleeMarie) January 19, 2018
In addition to saying goodbye to fans and Banus, Penghlis gave a farewell shout-out to his fellow Salemite Lauren Koslow (Kate Roberts), writing: "@laurenkoslow what a joy it's been working with you these last few years. Always the pro, great fashionista & a most loveable human. Kate & Andre will always live in our ♥️ #days #lives#daysofourlives #forever"
Penghlis joined DAYS as Stefano's nephew (later to be revealed as Stefano's son) in 1983. He played the role until 1985, returned for a short stint in 2007 and most recently came back in 2015. The actor also appeared in Salem as Tony DiMera from 1993 to 1996, 2002 to 2005, and in 2007.
What do you think about the sudden and unexpected death of Andre? Do you think Penghlis is truly done with DAYS, or do you get the feeling he could be back in the future? We want to hear from you -- so drop your comments in the Comments section below, tweet about it on Twitter, share it on Facebook, or chat about it on our Message Boards.
