As the dawn breaks over the set of Days of Our Lives, a bittersweet air hangs among the cast and crew, a feeling of transition and change. This sentiment is particularly poignant for Cherie Jimenez, who portrays the fiery Gabi Hernandez in the long-running soap opera. With co-star Al Calderon set to bid farewell to the show after being cast in NBC’s upcoming series Brilliant Minds, Jimenez recently opened up about the impact of his departure on their dynamic.
In a candid interview on Slasher Scotty’s YouTube channel, Jimenez reflected on her own journey joining the cast of Days of Our Lives, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes moments and hinting at what lies ahead for Gabi in the new year. When discussing the recasting of the character Javi Hernandez, Jimenez had nothing but praise for the new addition. “The recast is wonderful,” she shared. “He’s great. Because I’m a recast, there’s a camaraderie and there’s also something really beautiful about a new recast coming in and welcoming them and also like honoring that this is their experience.”
Drawing from her personal experience of stepping into the role of Gabi, Jimenez acknowledged the challenges that recasts face. “It’s tough because the expectations set by the previous actor, and at the end of the day the new actor cannot be the previous actor. There’s just no way. Like, I get it. People want you to do what they did, but that’s not authentic.”
Despite the impending departure of Calderon, Jimenez shared the deep bond she formed with him both on and off set. “Al leaving of course is heartbreaking,” she expressed. “We cried hysterically in my room for about an hour while holding each other and telling each other how much we love each other and how grateful we are for Days. He’s a forever thing in my life.”
As Calderon attempted to juggle both projects before his exit became official, the cast and crew came together to bid him a heartfelt farewell. Jimenez fondly recalled a touching moment where they signed a fake lemon from the Hernandez kitchen set as a keepsake.
Looking towards the future, Jimenez expressed her admiration for the actor stepping into the role of Javi, highlighting his talent and charm. She emphasized that while the on-screen relationship will naturally evolve, the chemistry between the characters reflects the genuine connection between herself and Calderon.
In the ever-evolving world of soap operas, where storylines ebb and flow like the tide, the departure of a beloved character can mark the end of an era. But as one chapter closes, another opens, and it is in these moments of transition that the true essence of storytelling shines through.
As the sands of time continue to shift on-screen, the legacy of Gabi and Javi’s relationship will endure, a testament to the enduring bonds forged in the world of daytime drama. For Cherie Jimenez and Al Calderon, their shared journey on Days of Our Lives will forever remain a cherished chapter in their lives.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.