Days of Our Lives Rumors: Are Judy Evans and Wally Kurth Leaving Salem?

Greetings devoted fans of Days of Our Lives and welcome to another electrifying edition of TV Days Drama Digest. Today we’re diving headfirst into the swirling vortex of speculation that has gripped the soap opera world: the persistent rumor that beloved actors Judi Evans and Wally Kurth, who bring the iconic characters Bonnie Lockhart and Justin Kiriakis to life, might be bidding farewell to the sands of Salem’s hourglass.

For weeks now, whispers have been relentless. Viewers have noticed their reduced screen time, sparking concern that this could be the beginning of the end for two cherished performers who have defined their careers in daytime drama. But is this truly the case—or simply another twist in the ever-unpredictable world of soap operas? Let’s unravel the truth, celebrate their legacy, and explore what’s next for Justin and Bonnie.

The Legacy of Judi Evans and Wally Kurth

Judi Evans: The Heart of Salem

Born in Montebello, California, on July 12, 1964, Judi Evans grew up in a circus family, learning performance from the start. She first made her mark on daytime as Beth Raines on Guiding Light, earning a Daytime Emmy at only 19. By 1986, she was in Salem as Adrienne Johnson, sister of Steve “Patch” Johnson and Jack Deveraux. Adrienne’s harrowing backstory—including surviving abuse and killing her father in self-defense—made her one of Days’ most compelling heroines.

Her romance with Justin Kiriakis, played by Wally Kurth, became an anchor of the show, filled with passion and pain, but always grounded in love. Evans’ versatility later shone when she took on the role of Bonnie Lockhart, Adrienne’s comic and outrageous doppelgänger. Where Adrienne was Salem’s emotional compass, Bonnie was pure chaos—and fans adored both.

In 2020, Adrienne was tragically killed in a car accident, leaving Salem devastated. Evans continued to appear as Bonnie, keeping her presence alive. Most recently, she’s taken on a tongue-in-cheek role in Body and Soul, the soap-within-a-soap, as Cassandra—a fan-favorite performance blending humor and nostalgia.

Wally Kurth: Salem’s Charming Legal Eagle

Wally Kurth, born July 31, 1958, in Montana, entered Salem in 1987 as Justin Kiriakis, the ambitious lawyer from the powerful Kiriakis family. Kurth pulled off the rare feat of balancing two daytime careers at once, playing Justin on Days and Ned Quartermaine on General Hospital.

Justin and Adrienne’s Greek Orthodox wedding remains one of soap opera’s most iconic ceremonies, and their love story through the ’80s and ’90s solidified Kurth as a leading man. Over the decades, Justin grew from ambitious lawyer to family patriarch. His more recent pairing with Bonnie was initially met with skepticism—even by Kurth—but evolved into a surprisingly delightful combination of humor and romance.

Kurth’s easy charm and grounded presence continue to make Justin a crucial figure in Salem, both in family and legal battles. His chemistry with Evans is undeniable, whether in heartbreak or comedy.

Why the Rumors Started

Fans have been buzzing on social media after noticing Evans and Kurth’s reduced screen time. With Days recently prioritizing younger characters and introducing new plots like Body and Soul, concerns spread quickly that legacy players like Justin and Bonnie might be written out.

The fear isn’t without precedent: Adrienne’s 2020 death shocked viewers, and both actors have faced contract uncertainty before. In 2015, they were briefly taken off contract, sparking similar rumors. Add in behind-the-scenes turmoil—including cast reshuffles during Days’ move to Peacock in 2022—and it’s easy to see why fans fear another exit.

The Facts: Debunking the Exit Speculation

As of August 23, 2025, there has been no official announcement from NBC, Peacock, or the actors themselves about a departure. That alone is telling—soap exits are usually announced or teased ahead of time.

In fact, both Evans and Kurth appear firmly embedded in current storylines:

• Evans continues to shine as Cassandra on Body and Soul, bringing a burst of comedy and drama to the show-within-a-show. Her social media posts also highlight her active involvement with the cast, including reunions with Stephen Nichols and Mary Beth Evans.

• Kurth remains a cornerstone as Justin, balancing his role with his ongoing run on General Hospital. His public enthusiasm about Justin’s relationship with Bonnie shows he’s invested in Salem’s future.

Their participation in the Day of Days fan event in late 2024 further confirms their commitment. Both were celebrated by cast and fans, reassuring viewers that they remain part of the Days family.

Why Fans Care So Deeply

The panic over their possible exit isn’t just about actors leaving—it’s about what Justin and Bonnie represent. These characters embody resilience.

• Justin has always been a voice of loyalty, humor, and heart within the Kiriakis family.

• Bonnie, once seen as comic relief, has grown into a character with surprising depth, especially in her unconventional but heartfelt romance with Justin.

Together, they offer a blend of stability and unpredictability that resonates with long-time fans. The memory of Adrienne’s tragic 2020 death still lingers, making viewers particularly protective of Justin’s happiness and Evans’ place on the canvas.

What’s Next for Justin and Bonnie?

Far from fading out, their storylines are ripe with potential:

• Bonnie/Cassandra: The Body and Soul arc continues to spotlight Evans, with the soap’s fictional move to Los Angeles promising fresh comedic and dramatic opportunities.

• Justin: With family rivalries heating up in the Kiriakis clan, Justin’s legal skills and family loyalty ensure he’ll stay central. His balance between Bonnie’s unpredictable nature and his grounded sensibility promises more fun ahead.

Soap operas thrive on reinvention, and Justin and Bonnie are well-positioned for another wave of stories—whether that means Hollywood adventures, family crises, or surprising new romances.

The Bigger Picture

For nearly six decades, Days of Our Lives has thrived on the passion of its fans. The concern over Evans and Kurth’s future reflects the show’s power to inspire loyalty and love.

Their legacy is undeniable:

• Evans’ Emmy-winning talent and versatility as Adrienne and Bonnie.

• Kurth’s decades-long charisma anchoring Justin’s evolution.

• Their combined chemistry, giving Salem both laughter and heartbreak.

Conclusion: More Drama Ahead, Not Goodbye

The rumors may have sparked fear, but the facts tell a different story: Judi Evans and Wally Kurth are not leaving Salem. Their characters remain essential, their performances beloved, and their presence secure—at least for now.

So instead of mourning a potential farewell, fans should embrace what’s next: Justin and Bonnie facing new challenges, more comedic detours, and deeper family ties in the unpredictable world of Days of Our Lives.

As the hourglass continues to turn, one thing is certain: the story of Justin and Bonnie is far from over.