Days of our lives spoilers: BREAKING NEWS – Josh Taylor says goodbye to DOOL and retires at 81?
Josh Taylor Shocks Fans with Retirement Update – Roman Brady’s Future Confirmed on Days of Our Lives
For nearly half a century, Josh Taylor has been one of the most recognizable faces in daytime television, bringing to life not one—but two—iconic characters on Days of Our Lives. As Roman Brady and formerly Chris Kositchek, Taylor’s presence has been interwoven with Salem’s most beloved storylines. And now, amid swirling rumors of retirement at age 81, Taylor has broken his silence with a revelation that’s sending waves of relief through the DOOL fanbase.
A Legacy Rooted in Salem
Josh Taylor’s journey began in 1977—not as the stoic Roman Brady we know today, but as Chris Kositchek, the rugged, blue-collar bartender of Doug’s Place. With charm and authenticity, Chris quickly became a fan favorite, navigating love triangles, personal struggles, and community ties. Taylor’s performance as Chris brought warmth and relatability to a character that felt real, anchoring him as a vital part of Salem’s tapestry.
After a decade, Taylor stepped away from the show. But in classic soap fashion, the story didn’t end there.
The Reinvention: From Chris to Roman
In 1997, Josh Taylor returned—this time as Roman Brady. Taking over a role previously played by other actors is never easy, but Taylor transformed Roman into a deeply layered figure: a no-nonsense police officer with a heart that beat for his family and the people of Salem. Over the next three decades, Taylor’s Roman faced love, betrayal, loss, and heroism.
From his passionate romance with Marina Evans to his unshakable loyalty as the town’s moral compass, Roman’s story has been an emotional roller coaster—and Josh Taylor has been its steady driver. Whether Roman was cracking cases, protecting his children, or grieving unimaginable loss, Taylor brought gravitas and heart to every scene.
A Return to Chris and a Nod to Nostalgia
In 2022, longtime viewers were treated to a special moment when Taylor reprised his role as Chris Kositchek for Beyond Salem. The episode was a masterclass in emotional storytelling and a powerful reminder of the actor’s enduring range. It was also a gift to fans, blending history with the present in a way only Days of Our Lives can pull off.
Roman in the Hot Seat: Who Shot EJ?
Fast-forward to today, and Roman Brady is once again at the center of Days’ most explosive storyline: the “Who Shot EJ DiMera?” mystery.
When the cunning and controversial EJ was found shot, it wasn’t just the crime that stunned Salem—it was the evidence that followed. Roman’s gun was found at the scene, throwing the retired cop-turned-pub owner directly into the eye of the storm.
Fans were gripped as Roman, the man who once upheld the law, found himself under suspicion. Was he being framed? Did EJ provoke something darker in him? Each episode peeled back layers of tension, with Josh Taylor delivering riveting performances filled with anguish, strength, and steely resolve.
Taylor’s portrayal of Roman grappling with the weight of suspicion and the looming shadow of his own past was hailed as some of his best work in years.
Retirement Rumors Spark Panic
As the “Who Shot EJ” storyline heated up, so did offscreen speculation. Social media erupted with rumors that Josh Taylor might be planning to retire. With Roman’s screen time appearing to dip and Taylor’s age reaching 81, fans feared the worst.
Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) lit up with emotional messages, favorite scene compilations, and the now-viral hashtag #SaveRomanBrady. Tributes poured in from fans who had grown up with Taylor, calling him a pillar of the show and begging for him to stay.
For weeks, the actor remained silent—until now.
“I’m Having Too Much Fun to Retire.”
In a heartfelt and candid statement, Josh Taylor shattered the rumors.
“My high school friends kept asking me, ‘Are you going to retire?’” Taylor shared in an exclusive interview. “And I just laughed. I told them, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m having way too much fun.’ So no—no way.”
The announcement was met with a tidal wave of relief and joy from fans and co-stars alike. Taylor’s passion for the craft and for Days of Our Lives was never in doubt, but hearing him confirm that he’s staying was the reassurance everyone needed.
What Keeps Him Coming Back
So what fuels Taylor’s fire after all these years?
The answer is simple: family, storytelling, and the fans.
Taylor has spoken often about the bonds he’s formed with the cast and crew. “These people are my family,” he once said. “We’ve been through marriages, divorces, births, losses—everything. It’s a special place.”
He also thrives on the thrill of complex, emotional storytelling. The Who Shot EJ arc has allowed Taylor to explore new dimensions of Roman: from vulnerability to resilience to silent anguish. “Every day is a new challenge,” he says. “I’m 81, but I feel like I’m just getting started.”
Then there’s the fanbase—the lifeblood of the show. Taylor is deeply touched by the constant letters, social media love, and fan interactions. “They’re the reason we keep going,” he says. “It’s humbling.”
What’s Next for Roman Brady?
With retirement off the table, the next question is: Where does Roman’s story go from here?
The Who Shot EJ storyline is far from over. Secrets are still unraveling, and Taylor is expected to remain central as Roman fights to clear his name. Could a shocking conspiracy be uncovered? Will a long-lost enemy return? Or will Roman unearth a truth that shatters the foundations of Salem once again?
Whatever lies ahead, Taylor’s Roman Brady will face it head-on—with grit, wisdom, and that signature heart.
And beyond the current drama, fans can expect new chapters. Whether it’s rekindling a romance, navigating family upheaval, or stepping back into law enforcement, Roman Brady’s journey is far from over.
Taylor’s Role Beyond the Screen
While his acting career remains strong, Josh Taylor is also investing in the next generation. He’s begun mentoring young actors and sharing wisdom from his decades in the business.
“I love telling stories,” he said. “Whether it’s on screen or in a classroom, I want to keep doing it for as long as I can.”
His energy and generosity continue to inspire, making it clear that Josh Taylor’s legacy goes far beyond the credits.
The Final Word
Josh Taylor’s career on Days of Our Lives is a masterclass in longevity, reinvention, and passion. From the humble bartender Chris Kositchek to the iconic Roman Brady, he’s delivered decades of unforgettable performances.
His decision to stay, despite the rumors, is a gift to fans old and new. It’s a reminder that some stories are far too powerful to end just yet.
At 81, Josh Taylor is not retiring—he’s reigniting.
And with that, Roman Brady’s next chapter is already being written. Expect drama. Expect surprises. But most of all, expect brilliance.
Are you thrilled Josh Taylor is staying on Days of Our Lives? Share your favorite Roman Brady moments in the comments or join the conversation using #DaysOfOurLives. And don’t forget to subscribe to TV Days Drama Digest for the latest updates straight from Salem!
