With Brandon Barash’s exit from Days of Our Lives, it’s only fitting that Stefan’s mother, Vivian, returned for his send-off. But she didn’t simply say goodbye. She and her manservant Ivan kidnapped him, removing him from the canvas. Vivian’s portrayer, Louise Sorel, discussed how this latest appearance differed from the last and what she really enjoys about the character.

Vivian’s Been Too Serious for Sorel Lately

Sorel spoke to Soap Opera Digest and remarked that when she returned to Days in September 2023, Vivian Alamain challenged Victor’s (the late John Aniston) will. She noted that Vivian only ever tries to get things for herself but remains the same irritating woman that she’s always been.

She explained: “The last few times [I’ve been back], it’s not been funny. It’s been hard to find the humor.” Sorel remarked that Jim Reilly, who was the show’s...