Thaao Penghlis Says Goodbye to Days of Our Lives

It’s been quite some time since Thaao Penghlis has been seen on Days of Our Lives as Tony DiMera, and during a recent interview, the actor admitted that he was moving on and leaving daytime — and DAYS — behind.

“I’m leaving the soap world,” Penghlis told Soap Opera News. “There are changes happening that I can’t discuss right now. It feels like it’s coming from somewhere else, maybe with a different writer. When people start taking you for granted, you change. I love where I am now. It’s a sort of awakening.”

Penghlis has an extensive career in film and television and made his daytime debut as Victor Cassadine on General Hospital back in 1981. After his character was sent to prison, the actor moved over to NBC to join DAYS as Stefano DiMera’s son, Tony. And a few years later, he began playing Tony’s villainous twin, Andre DiMera. Over the years, he has brought Tony back to Salem multiple times, earning three Daytime Emmy Award nominations. 

The last time viewers saw Tony on screen was in June 2023, and Penghlis confirmed that was the last they’ll see of the character. “Yes,” he admitted. “The fans really like Anna and Tony because they bring humor, charm, and romance to the show. People love seeing long-term relationships like Bill and Susan Hayes. But things are changing with new characters and budget constraints. Some characters are not there anymore. It’s time to move on and appreciate the time that’s been spent.”

Penghlis, who has written two books, recently launched a new podcast called Thaao Penghlis’s The Lost Treasures, where he explores Greek history. He’s grateful for the support of his loyal daytime fans who have followed him throughout his journey. “The fans who have been through throughout the years mean a lot to me,” he declared. “I’m really thankful.”