Soap opera fans are reeling today after stunning reports confirmed that Judi Evans, the actress who has portrayed Adrienne Kiriakis and

most recently Bonnie Lockhart, is departing Days of Our Lives after more than two decades on the series. The news has sent shockwaves

through the fandom, leaving Salem’s future uncertain without one of its most beloved and entertaining stars.

A Legacy Spanning Two Iconic Roles

Judi Evans is no stranger to DOOL audiences. First joining the show in the late 1980s, Evans became a household name as Adrienne Johnson, the strong-willed love of Justin Kiriakis. Fans adored her passionate love story with Wally Kurth’s Justin, making them one of Salem’s cornerstone couples.

Years later, Evans re-entered the show in a completely different role — the quirky, sometimes troublesome, but always lovable Bonnie Lockhart. While Adrienne symbolized class and resilience, Bonnie brought comic relief and unpredictable chaos to Salem. Judi’s ability to embody both characters with such depth cemented her status as a true soap legend.

The Announcement Nobody Saw Coming

According to industry insiders, Evans’ departure was unexpected, with cast members reportedly learning the news only days before official confirmation. While Days of Our Lives has yet to release a detailed statement, speculation is swirling about whether this was a creative decision by the writers or a personal choice by Evans to step away from the demanding soap schedule.

Fans quickly took to social media, expressing their heartbreak. “Judi has been part of my Salem journey since I was a kid — I can’t imagine the show without her,” one longtime viewer wrote. Another added, “Losing Judi Evans feels like losing two characters at once. Adrienne and Bonnie both brought so much heart.”

What Does This Mean for Bonnie Lockhart’s Future?

Currently, Judi Evans has been portraying Bonnie, who has undergone a redemption arc after years of wild antics. Her relationship with Justin gave fans a new dynamic, sparking debates about whether Justin truly moved on from Adrienne’s tragic death.

Spoilers suggest that Evans’ departure could mean Bonnie will be written out dramatically. Will she leave Salem quietly, or will the writers stage a shocking twist — possibly even a tragic fate that mirrors Adrienne’s heartbreaking end? Viewers are bracing for answers in the coming weeks.

Adrienne’s Shadow Still Looms Large

Even after Adrienne’s on-screen death, her legacy has continued to haunt the canvas. Many fans never fully accepted the decision to kill off the character, and Evans’ presence as Bonnie has kept Adrienne’s memory alive. With Evans gone, the Kiriakis family storyline could face major changes.

Speculation is already growing about whether the show might recast Adrienne in the future, or whether both characters will be permanently retired as a tribute to Judi’s long-standing contribution. Either way, her absence will leave a hole in the Kiriakis family drama that will be difficult to fill.

Cast & Crew Reactions

Though official statements remain limited, behind-the-scenes chatter hints at an emotional farewell. Wally Kurth (Justin) is said to be especially devastated, given his decades-long working relationship with Evans across multiple soap operas. Other cast members are expected to share tributes in the coming days, celebrating her professionalism, warmth, and ability to light up any scene.

Her colleagues have often praised her resilience — particularly following personal struggles, including a near-fatal accident in 2020. Judi’s return to DOOL after such challenges only reinforced her dedication to her craft and her love for the fans.