In the ever-changing landscape of Salem, few characters have experienced such a dramatic transformation as Alex Kiriakis on Days of Our Lives. As portrayed by Robert Scott Wilson, Alex’s journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, power struggles, and personal growth that has captivated viewers and redefined the character’s place in the show’s intricate tapestry.
The turning point in Alex’s story came with his ill-fated wedding to Theresa, marking a clear divide between his past and future. As Wilson explained to Soap Opera Digest, the revelation of Theresa’s deception was a point of no return for Alex. “There’s no coming back from this,” Wilson stated, emphasizing the finality of their relationship and Alex’s swift move towards an annulment.
However, Alex’s story is not simply one of victimhood. His behavior following his newfound wealth and power painted a picture of an insufferable and narcissistic individual. He turned his back on Justin, his adoptive father and true paternal figure, in favor of embracing his biological heritage and the Kiriakis fortune. This period saw Alex at his worst, throwing around money and influence with little regard for others.
Wilson candidly acknowledged his character’s flaws, describing Alex as “a narcissistic guy” who “doesn’t ever want to be wrong.” The actor highlighted how Alex’s sudden rise to power led to his spectacular fall, leaving him looking like “the biggest fool out there.” This humbling experience has proven to be a crucial catalyst for change in Alex’s character development.
The aftermath of Alex’s public humiliation has opened the door for a more nuanced and potentially redeemable version of the character. Wilson suggests that this experience has made Alex “a bit kinder and gentler,” while also becoming “quietly stronger and quietly sharper.” This evolution presents an intriguing opportunity for the writers to explore a more complex and relatable Alex.
Despite these changes, Wilson assures fans that the core of Alex’s personality remains intact. “He’s still Alex,” the actor emphasized, indicating that while the character has grown, he hasn’t completely transformed overnight. The loss of his superficial gains and the return to his true family has instilled in Alex “a sense of gratitude and an ego check,” setting the stage for a period of self-reflection and personal growth.
Alex’s journey towards self-improvement has not been without its setbacks. His progress, evident in therapy sessions with Marlena and his empathetic approach to Theresa and Tate’s struggles with addiction, seemed to regress when he gained access to Xander’s full inheritance. This backsliding highlights the ongoing challenge Alex faces in maintaining his personal growth in the face of temptation and power.
As Days of Our Lives continues to unfold, the question remains: Can Alex make lasting changes and evolve into a character worthy of both Justin’s pride and the audience’s support? The potential for Alex to become a more nuanced and relatable character is evident, offering a compelling storyline that could see him navigate the complex dynamics of the Kiriakis family while striving to become a better person.
In the end, Alex’s journey serves as a reminder of the power of redemption and the ongoing struggle for self-improvement that resonates with viewers. As Salem’s residents continue to evolve, Alex Kiriakis stands at a crossroads, with the potential to become one of the show’s most intriguing and dynamic characters.
