‘Days of Our Lives’ star Kristian Alfonso leaving iconic soap opera after 37 years

When iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives" resumes production this fall following a pause amid the coronavirus pandemic, a familiar face will be missing from the cast.

According to People magazine, actress Kristian Alfonso, who has played Hope Williams Brady for 37 years, revealed on social media that she is leaving the show.

"'Days of Our Lives' has been a vital part of both my personal and professional journey," the 56-year-old Alfonso wrote in an Instagram post Monday.

She then praised late producer Betty Corday and the rest of the "Days" cast, whom Alfonso referred to as her "extended family."

"I feel blessed and honored to have been invited into people's homes for over three decades," Alfonso wrote. "However, it is now time for me to write my next chapter. I will not be returning to 'Days' when it resumes production in September."

She added that she filmed her final episode "several months ago."

"Finally – to the incredibly loyal fans of 'Days' – many of you have been with me on this journey from the beginning," continued Alfonso, who began appearing on the show in 1983. "I cannot thank you enough for your generosity, love and support. I could not have done it without YOU!!!"

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