Days of Our Lives has been keeping fans on their toes with a flurry of character exits and introductions lately. While some departures were teased, like Konstantin’s death and the potential exits of Stefan, Johnny, and Chanel, the show has also introduced a new family, the Greenes, and welcomed back characters like AnnaLynne McCord’s mysterious role, seemingly connected to Abigail. Additionally, Gabi’s return from prison seems imminent.
However, one storyline that has caught the attention of fans is the character development of Leo Stark. With the writers’ strike now ended, the show appears to be pivoting Leo’s character arc, sanding off his rougher edges. He’s attending therapy sessions with Marlena to explore the root causes of his morally questionable behavior and his belief that he is unlovable.
During these sessions, Leo has revealed that three people in his life have made him feel unworthy of love: Gwen and Dimitri, whom he lost, and his mother, Diana Colville, who spent his life telling him he was unlovable. This exploration of Leo’s past has sparked speculation that these three characters might make a return to Salem.
Diana’s return seems all but confirmed after Leo made a call to Statesville to arrange a visit with his “Mommie Dearest.” Their confrontation promises to be a must-watch moment on our screens, although Leo warned that his previous visit with his mother was an uncomfortable experience.
As for Gwen and Dimitri, their potential returns seem increasingly likely as well. During a recent encounter with Theresa, Leo noted her resemblance to a “good friend” with a “better accent” and darker hair – a clear reference to Gwen, played by Emily O’Brien. This explicit comparison has fans wondering if it’s a hint at Gwen’s return, possibly coinciding with Theresa’s impending exit.
Furthermore, the sudden revelation of Dimitri’s breakup letter to Leo has left fans questioning whether the “love of Leo’s life” might also make a comeback, perhaps having secured his release from prison.
If both Gwen and Dimitri were to return simultaneously, it could create a tantalizing love triangle drama. Gwen might return with the Von Leuschner family fortune, having outmaneuvered her husband, while Dimitri might seek reconciliation with Leo. The ensuing conflict between Gwen and Dimitri, with Leo caught in the middle, could make for compelling television.
Days of Our Lives seems intent on keeping Leo around and making him a more complex character, rather than just a one-dimensional villain. However, for Leo to truly establish a lasting presence on the canvas, he needs connections to other characters. The potential returns of Gwen, Dimitri, and even Diana could provide those crucial ties, as all three have history with the show and various connections to other characters in Salem.
Diana’s obsession with John, for instance, could further intertwine her storyline with the Bradys and the Kiriakis family. Gwen’s return could reignite her feuds with Abigail and other Salemites, while also allowing for potential redemption and growth. Dimitri’s comeback could not only rekindle his romance with Leo but also introduce new storylines and conflicts.
Characters who lack strong connections to the core families and residents of Salem often struggle to maintain longevity on the show. By potentially bringing back Gwen, Dimitri, and Diana, Days of Our Lives could be setting the stage for Leo to become a more integral part of the canvas, with his storylines intertwining with those of established characters and families.
This strategic move could not only add depth and complexity to Leo’s character but also inject fresh drama and conflict into the show’s narrative tapestry, keeping viewers engaged and invested in the ever-evolving lives of the residents of Salem.
