Xander Kiriakis has always been one of Days of Our Lives’ most polarizing characters, but the latest rumors about his possible departure have fans holding their breath. After a shocking and violent development that recently aired, speculation about Paul Telfer stepping away from the role has intensified across fan forums and social media. But how much truth is there to these rumors? Here’s an explainer.
Rumors about Paul Telfer’s Xander Kiriakis leaving Days of Our Lives explained
Speculation about Paul Telfer’s departure as Xander Kiriakis began after a particularly intense episode on May 21. In the episode, Xander brutally attacked his brother Philip, shocking fans. This wasn’t a typical soap opera altercation—it was raw, calculated, and disturbingly violent. The act caught longtime viewers off guard, especially given Xander’s recent arc from villain to complex anti-hero.
The fallout was immediate. Sarah Horton, Xander’s longtime love interest, was horrified by his actions and immediately cut him off. Given her history of ending relationships when betrayed, this may be the final breaking point for their already strained bond. Even Maggie Horton, who had once supported Xander through his worst moments, now appears to have turned her back on him. With his closest allies distancing themselves, Xander’s future in Salem looks increasingly uncertain.
What’s fueling fan anxiety is the sharp shift in Xander’s character. Viewers had watched him gradually evolve into someone more emotionally grounded. However, this latest act feels like a return to his darkest days, prompting many to wonder if the character is being written into a corner.
There is no official confirmation that Paul Telfer is leaving Days of Our Lives. However, the timing of Xander’s dramatic fall from redemption has only intensified speculation. Some believe Telfer may be exploring new opportunities, while others suspect this could simply be part of a broader storyline shift.
Soap operas often write characters out temporarily, only to bring them back later with renewed arcs. Whether this is a setup for Xander’s exit or the beginning of another redemption journey remains to be seen.