Today we’re turning our spotlight on a seismic rumor that has sent shockwaves through the soap opera community.
Days of Our Lives (DOOL) — the iconic daytime drama that has captivated audiences for six decades — might be poised for a triumphant return to its original home on NBC.
Buckle up, because we’re about to unravel the twists, turns, and tantalizing possibilities surrounding this potential comeback, while also reflecting on the show’s storied history, its unexpected shift to streaming, and what this all means for its loyal fan base.
For those who’ve been swept away by the emotional roller coaster of Days of Our Lives, the show needs no introduction.
Since its debut on November 8th, 1965, DOOL has been a cornerstone of daytime television — weaving tales of love, betrayal, family feuds, and even supernatural surprises in the fictional town of Salem.
From the star-crossed romances of Bo and Hope to the diabolical schemes of Stefano DiMera, the show has delivered unforgettable moments that kept viewers glued to their screens for generations.
Its signature hourglass opening, accompanied by the immortal words “Like sands through the hourglass, so are the days of our lives”, is more than a catchphrase — it’s a cultural touchstone.
For 57 years, Days of Our Lives aired on NBC’s daytime lineup, becoming a daily ritual for millions.
But in 2022, everything changed.
NBC announced that Days of Our Lives would no longer air on broadcast, ending its historic run.
Instead, the show moved to Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming platform, starting September 12, 2022.
The move blindsided fans.
For many, it felt like a betrayal — a beloved institution uprooted and thrust into the uncertainty of streaming.
The reasoning? Economics.
As daytime soaps face declining viewership, networks are shifting toward on-demand content and cost-saving formats.
Days was replaced by NBC News Daily — a news program seen as a better financial bet.
Yet the transition wasn’t smooth.
Older fans especially found Peacock hard to navigate.
Social media buzzed with frustration — hashtags like #SaveDOOL and #BringBackDays trended.
Despite this, Days of Our Lives found a new life on Peacock.
The move gave the show creative freedom, improved production quality, and attracted a younger demographic.
Episodes could now be longer and more daring.
The fan base stayed strong, and DOOL even became a Top 10 title on Peacock.
Events like Day of Days continued with huge enthusiasm — both online and in person.
Then came a thrilling announcement:
Ahead of the 2024 Day of Days, Peacock confirmed a renewal for Season 61, running through the 2025–2026 season.
Season 60, the show’s 60th anniversary, was packed with surprises:
Return of fan favorites, a focus on core families (the Hortons, Bradys, DiMeras, and Kiriakises), and high-stakes storytelling.
But not everything was rosy.
Some longtime fans still missed the comfort of watching on broadcast TV.
Enter the rumor that’s shaken the soap world:
Could DOOL return to NBC in 2026?
Whispers began in early 2025.
Insiders suggest NBC is considering the move to reignite its faltering daytime ratings — a strategic reversal to reclaim Days’ magic.
NBC News Daily failed to capture audiences the way Days did.
Meanwhile, rivals like CBS thrive with Y&R and B&B.
NBC’s gamble on news programming hasn’t paid off.
Bringing Days of Our Lives back to NBC would make sense:
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The fan base is still loyal.
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It could recapture lapsed viewers who struggled with streaming.
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DOOL’s cultural legacy makes it a powerful brand.
There’s also the potential of a hybrid model:
Broadcast airings with Peacock offering on-demand access and exclusive bonus content.
However, there are obstacles.
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Financial investment — producing a daily soap is expensive.
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Scheduling — would NBC displace its current news lineup?
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Streaming commitment — Season 61 is already greenlit on Peacock.
Any return would require delicate coordination.
Still, the buzz is real.
Fans on platforms like X are rallying:
#DOOLOnNBC
#SalemHomecoming
For many, the show is a tradition, a daily escape, and a source of comfort.
Older fans especially yearn for the ease and ritual of linear TV.
More than just accessibility, it’s about legacy.
The idea of tuning in at 1 p.m. to catch the latest Salem shocker is a tradition worth reviving.
NBC could capitalize on the momentum from the show’s 60th anniversary and give fans the comeback they’ve been longing for.
So what lies ahead?
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Will DOOL remain streaming-only, thriving on Peacock?
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Or will NBC take the leap and bring it back to daytime TV?
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Or perhaps… both?
A hybrid model could honor the past while embracing the future.
One thing is certain:
The sands of time are still flowing.
And Days of Our Lives remains a force to be reckoned with.
As we await official word, let’s keep the excitement alive.
Season 61 is coming, and Salem’s stories are far from over.
What do you think, fans?
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Are you ready for a return to NBC?
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Or do you prefer the flexibility of Peacock?
Drop your thoughts in the comments.
