‘Keep an Open Mind,’ Days of Our Lives’ Emily O’Brien Implores Fans After Whackadoo Recast

You know what they say. When one door closes on Gwen, another opens on Theresa. Or something like that. Days of Our Lives officially made the big switch at the end of last week and now, Emily O’Brien has finally spoken out about the big, bizarre change up.

She took to Instagram to write that “a new page turns from a different story… One that I am excited to explore. So, as I step into the shoes (and wig) of a very different role, I hope that you can keep an open mind, have fun with my interpretation, and enjoy the ride. After all, it’s just a bit of dress up and make believe, really.”

As she told Soap Opera Digest in their recent issue, she wasn’t sure how to feel at first, but after a bit of struggle she’s easing into the new role. “I’ve been confused, scared, nervous, awkward, tentative,” she admitted. “I’m sort of throwing myself out there with the lions and into the fire and have to go on and do it. And I’m discovering it as I go.”

But it’s been a challenge she’s been determined to rise to.

And her costars are enthusiastically cheering her on.

Abigial Klein (Stephanie) didn’t hold back either, writing, “What can’t she do! You beauty. Also, now we’re cousins — lucky me!”

And though Greg Rikaart (Leo) and Paul Telfer (Xander) don’t get the scenes with her they used to anymore, they

“You are the GOAT, Emily,” Rikaart wrote. “I’ve thought that since our first day together at Young & Restless. You show up, you slay whatever is given to you, you keep your focus on what’s important. You are a class act and we could all learn a thing or two from you.”

“You’re amazing, Emily,” Telfer agreed, “#Xwen!”

Stacy Haiduk (Kristen/Susan), Martha Madison (Belle) and Camila Banus (Gabi) all jumped in to add their own encouragement as well and make sure that O’Brien knows everyone has her back. And that includes Jen Lilley.

“You’re doing a wonderful job,” she cheered in the comments. Check out the video below where Lilley explains how the switch came about and her utter shock in being replaced mid-story.

As for Gwen, while it’s not clear if we’ll be seeing her again or when, O’Brien assured us that she’s doing just fine. “Don’t worry,” she wrote, “I am sure Gwen is still smirking somewhere…”

The actress then went on to “show my utmost gratitude for the opportunity to have portrayed such a beautifully layered character for the past 4 years. She has taken me through such a delicious discovery of who she is, and what she ultimately always yearned for— despite all her pain, vengeance and deceit. To be loved. Perhaps someday, somewhere away from Salem, she can finally find it.”

Well, if there’s anywhere to find healthy, stable love, it’s definitely outside of Salem! With that said, we can’t wait to see where O’Brien takes Theresa next.